уАКThe Tyrant&#x27;s PetуАЛ


 Chapter 1 New Owner

    A soft gust of wind blew past the two figures on the west part of the massive garden. With the full moon as their light and the howling of the wind as their music, the woman trembled in fear.

    "Please, take me."

    She gazed up at the man before her, sping the grass tightly until her nails dug into the ground. His brow raised, arms crossed, tilting his head as he studied the woman, who was kneeling two meters away. Despite that her body that was littered with bruises, her eyes gleamed with rity.

    His eyes fell on the severed rope around her neck, indicating she was someone else''s property. He could see her shoulder tensed up under his gaze, but her eyes never left his pair of crimson eyes.

    "Woman, did you, perhaps,e to me knowing who I am?" the man simpered, looking amused at the situation. He was just walking in the garden for some fresh air since the world summit бк the gatherings of the sovereigns from empires to smaller kingdoms to talk about peace бк that was being held in this neutralnd suffocated him. But he never thought a woman would spring up out of nowhere.

    Her lower lip trembled as they parted, but her words were stuck in her throat. Of course, she had a vague idea of who he was. From his clothing adorned with real jewelry and a golden brooch, she could tell this man was an important individual who could kill her right here and now. But she would die anyway if she got dragged back to her ''owner.''

    The man let out a dry chuckle and marched towards her. He squatted down with maroon eyes glinting in interest, lifting her chin with his index.

    "I don''t remember ripping out your tongue for you to keep silent... but whatever," hemented, making her swallow, which echoed in her ear. "You want me to take you in?"

    Aries nodded profusely, as she didn''t care anymore. She wouldn''t go back to that detestable man who held her captive for two years.

    "Hmm... are you good in bed?"

    Her breath instantly hitched upon the question, making her grip on the grass tighten as her jaw locked. "No, but... I can learn."

    "Hah! How honest! If you''re not pretty enough, you should be good in bed to make up for that! Or, at least, pretend you are!" he intoned with a sigh, clicking his tongue continuously.

    ''If I lied, won''t you kill me if you find out?'' were the words she wanted to speak, but the building tension in her throat kept her from speaking. All she could do was stare at him as her chest heaved heavily.

    This man was dangerous, she thought. Staring at him up close confirmed her initial guess he was someone even her owner wouldn''t offend. If he took her in, she would do everything to please him and survive. It may not be any different from that monster, but at least this man wasn''t the person who ughtered her family.

    "Mhm..." the man hummed a long, deep tune while studying her. His eyes then raised at the frantic soldiers searching the area. Just one look and he already knew which country these soldiers came from. This caused the side of his lips to curl up into a smirk, shifting his eyes back to her.

    "So, your owner is from Maganti Empire?" he hooked a finger in the rope around her neck, pulling her closer. "My advisor told me not to cause trouble during the world summit... but how can I turn a blind eye to such a pitiful creature?"

    "Pl бк please... I will do anything," came out a shaking voice with her ragged breathing. "I don''t want to go back there."

    He nodded, closed-lipped. "You don''t want toe back to your owner? Are you sure?"

    She nodded profusely once again, showing her determination to be taken in by him. Her immediate and desperate response caused the side of his lips to stretch into a wide, devious grin. The man let her go and stood up. What he did next left her mind nk as her body froze.

    "You! Are you looking for her?" herplexion instantly turned pale while his eyes drooped evilly. He watched the soldier he called approach and sported a polite smile.

    The soldier gazed at the woman kneeling on the ground, then back at the man who called him. As soon as he distinguished who the man called him was, he beckoned a neck bow.

    "Greetings to the shining sun of Haimirich Empire. Please forgive us if this caused you inconvenience." She slowly turned her head to the soldier as he apologized with a bow. Her heart sank as there was no doubt this soldier was from that person.

    "Mhm. It''s fine." The man waved nonchntly and nced at her. Seeing her paleplexion made him smile, pleased at what was unfolding before him.

    "Thank you for your benevolence, Your Majesty. I will take her away right this instant and rest assured this will not happen again."

    "Be my guest." The man, the emperor of Haimirich, Eustass Silvestri Abel Bloodworth, gestured his arm as he cocked his head to the side. His amicable demeanor gained the trust of the soldier as thetter carefully approach the runaway pet of the crown prince of Maganti.

    "No..." the pet, Aries, shook her head in panic, trying to crawl away from there. "... I won''t go back."

    "Don''t make this hard for us," said the soldier in irritation, bending over to grab her bicep to drag her away. They couldn''t irk the man who found thisdy, and the soldier knew the consequences if they did. But just as the soldier''s hand could touch her, Abel spoke.

    "Wait."

    The soldier stopped and turned his head to him. His brows furrowed when he saw Abel crook a finger.<sub> </sub>

    "Come here. She''s the pet of the crown prince of Maganti, correct? I want you to send a message to him regarding this incident," Abel exined. The soldier who found this logical withdrew his hand and marched towards him.

    When the soldier was within his reach, Abel brushed the soldier''s shoulder with the back of his hand. "Tell the crown prince of Maganti that thisdy..." Abel trailed off as he suddenly grabbed the soldier''s neck.

    Caught by surprise, the soldier held Abel''s sleeve on instinct. He tried to struggle, but Abel''s grip tightened as he lifted him from the ground.

    The corner of Abel''s lips curled up devilishly, staring at the soldier''s eyes and watching how life slip away from it.

    "Nevermind. I don''t think you will be able to send the message, anyway." As his grip tightened, Abel gazed down at the terrified Aries and simpered. "Well, now, look at you... trembling in fear while realization kicks in... albeit a little toote."

    SNAP!

    Abel snapped the soldier''s neck and abruptly let him go. The soldier''s body instantly copsed to the ground with a thud.

    Aries jolted back, staring at the soldier, wide-eyed. She was a bit confused at the sudden turn of events, but all she could do was look up at the sovereign of the Haimirich Empire. Her eyes instantlynded on the sinister smirk on his lips. And in that instant, fear she never felt before swelled in her chest.

    A devil. A cold-blooded man who never showed remorse in taking a man''s life. The worst of the worst.

    "Listen here," he dawdled, strutting towards her and squatting down. The tip of his finger pressed against her throat lightly, tracing it up to her chin.

    "What''s with that look?" His smirk stretched broader, cupping his jaw. His pair of maroon eyes glinted with malice. "You''re not thinking of going back to the crown prince now, are you?"

    Aries could only stare at him as he hooked his finger in the rope around her neck, pulling her closer. "Mine now," he whispered.

    Before she could react, he already tilted his head and nted his lips on hers, marking the beginning of her life as the pet of this crazy emperor who had tons of loose screws in his head.

    ----

    AUTHOR''S NOTE:

    Hello everyone! alienfrommars here :) Wee, wee!

    If you are a reader of my previous works and ongoing ones, I would like to say, it''s nice to see you here as well. Hugs~!

    If this is my first work you will read, please check out my other novels as well! Also, wee to the spaceship to Mars. Please tighten your seatbelt and rx before we take off.

    Anyway, enough with the hugs and kisses and onto the important stuff. I would like to leave some reminders of what to expect from this novel.

    First things first, if you don''t violence, mature content, and strongnguages such as profanities, this novel is not for you. The Tyrant''s Pet contains a lot of those, as this is a dark-themed novel. It''s a work I had been writing for months before I published it. I also had second thoughts about sharing this story because of the content. (the content in here made me write a light-hearted story that is still not published to clean my soul.)

    Second, both leads are not pure. But what I can promise you is the female lead is definitely not a pushover or someone easy.

    Third, the male lead is a tsun... and krazy. I had been wanting to write a character where the opinions would be split. I personally don''t know what to feel about our male lead, Abel, because he is aplicated character. If you don''t know what I am talking about, go read it and be the judge. You might hate him or love him.

    Lastly, this is a fast-paced story. There will be a lot of schemes, smut, deaths, and topic you might find disturbing.

    That''s all for now. If you decided to proceed after reading this note, wee aboard! I hope you enjoy this crazy story with me.

    AUTHOR''S OTHER WORKS:

    The Duke''s Passion -pleted

    Viiness for the Devil - under revision (the first volumepleted)

    True Alpha''s Chosen Mate -pleted

 Chapter 2 Bland

    "... mine now."

    Aries''s eyes popped out of their socket as her entire body froze up from the cold lips on hers. She blinked twice, watching him draw his head back before wiping the corner of her lips with his thumb.

    "nd," he said and shrugged nonchntly. "But passable."

    Her heart sank as she realized what kind of person this man was. He was no different from the man who caused her eternal sufferings. But... she didn''t regret it.

    This man''s world had always been this way. She took a deep breath, loosening her grip on the ground.

    When a subtle smile appeared on her face, his brows raised momentarily before he grinned. He rocked his head, pleased that she didn''t chicken out.

    "Hah... what a lovely smile." He clicked his tongue and pointed at her, raising a brow when he heard a familiar voice from a distance. He turned his head in the source''s direction only to see a man running towards him.

    "Your Majesty! What are you -- !!"

    Aries and Abel turned and gazed at his young advisor as thetter stopped several feet away. His eyes instantly dted, shifting his eyes from the body on the ground, to the woman, and to his emperor. It was too easy for him to grasp the situation, knowing the troublemaker emperor.

    "Conan, you look pale and exhausted. I wonder why?" Abel wondered as he slowly stood up to face his legal advisor.

    Conan gasped in dismay. Did he hear him correctly? Abel doesn''t know why he looked exhausted?! Just who wouldn''t panic when a ticking time bomb like Abel suddenly disappeared in this ce? Knowing the emperor, he wouldn''t mind offending anyone that could lead to war.

    "Your Majesty, how... why..." Conan looked at the body not far away from his emperor''s vantage point and sighed in distress. The more he realized this tyrant caused yet another problem despite his numerous reminders, the more he felt helplessly annoyed.

    "Your Majesty!" he yelled in distress. "I already reminded you many times, but..."

    "My dear Conan." Abel chuckled as he strutted towards his legal advisor, nting a palm on his shoulder. "This won''t incite political discourtesy if no one sees the body, correct? They will just assume he got... lost."

    Conan let out a defeated sigh as he gazed up at him. "Your Majesty, why do you always do this to me? The Great Heart Empire nearly wage a war with us, and now this?"

    "Come on, Conan. Stop crying." Abel''s smile grew brighter, squeezing Conan''s shoulder. "Clean this up and take her with you. She''s my new pet."

    Conan shifted his eyes to where Abel was pointing his thumb at. He instantly locked eyes with Aries''s pair of emerald orbs, making him sigh in disbelief as he already felt sorry for her. Abel patted his shoulder lightly before walking away without speaking another word.

    Meanwhile, Aries stared at his back nkly. She should be relieved that she finally escaped the shackles of the crown prince of Maganti. But knowing she just put another shackle that was much tougher this time stopped her from celebrating.

    "Hello." She peeled her eyes away from the darkness where Abel vanished to Conan. He was now squatting down in front of her, offering her a warm smile. Unlike Abel''s diabolical smirk, Conan was theplete opposite.

    Conan sized her up, noticing the bruises on her exposed skin and her disheveled clothes. He sighed as he didn''t understand why Abel risked waging a war to another empire for this girl.

    "Let''s go, mydy." He beckoned, not offering her false reassurance or anything of the sort. "His Majesty had decided."

    Aries studied his eyes and smiled bitterly. "Mhm."

    Conan assisted herself up and led her to the quarters where the Haimirich delegation was staying at. Aries knew her life could be the same, or worse, than her life in Maganti Empire. She didn''t have high expectations from Abel or in the empire that had taken her in as a pet.

    All that mattered to her was to survive and she would stop at nothing to live, even for just another day.

    And that was how Aries became the fearsome tyrant''s pet.<sub> </sub>

    *****

    Days... weeks... and a month had passed ever since the emperor of Haimirich took Aries in. But she never saw Abel after that night. Even when they returned to Haimirich Empire, he didn''t call for her. This gave her a bit of space to breathe and to get herself together.

    Thankfully, they treated her with respect and took care of her. From bathing her to dolling her to be pleasing in the eye, to her diet, and almost everything. She couldn''t reallyin as she lived the life of a princess; a life she lived бк or a life grander бк before the tragic downfall of their small kingdom.

    KNOCK KNOCK!

    Aries perked up, watching the door open from the settee she was sitting on. They told her that Conan would visit her in her room today to check on her. Whatever that meant, Aries had a vague idea. Since they were back in the empire, she knew Abel would soon call for her to do her... duties.

    Conan peeked his head in and smiled. "Can Ie in, mydy?"

    "Uh, yes, of course." She awkwardly stood up, lowering her head to humble herself. She only sat down when Conan told her to while he perched on the armchair across from her.

    Aries clutched her skirt, watching Conan ce the books on the table between them. Her brows rose, eyes filling with curiosity.

    "Mydy, can you read our empire''snguage?" he inquired as he straightened his back. His eyesnded on her. "I know you can speak ournguage, but can you read it? If you do, that will be better since it''ll be easier to teach you the things you need to know about the empire and His Majesty."

    She gazed at the book and read ''history.'' Yes, she could read the empire''snguage and speak it. Actually, she could speak morenguages as she was required to learn those while growing up.

    "Yes, I can." Her eyshes fluttered, lifting her eyes to Conan.

    Conan rocked his head in awe at this woman. Since Abel took her in, Conan''s job was to do a background check on her. He already knew that she came from the small kingdom of Rikhill. Apparently, that kingdom that persisted for hundreds of years fell into ruin overnight in the hands of the Maganti Empire.

    Apparently, she was the war trophy the crown prince of the Maganti Empire took home. All her kin died, and she was the only one who lived. To make it worse, she had to live with the person who murdered her family. It was still a surprise that she kept a sound mind despite going through hell.

    "Then, that is good." Conan broke the brief silence and smiled. "These are the books I prepared for you. Read and study them while we look for suitable instructors for you."

    Aries just nodded, closed-lipped. "Thank you."

    The emperor''s advisor studied her timid demeanor and sighed. This woman was too obedient, he thought. She might not survive for a long time if she kept this up. Abel was too fickle. Even so, that wasn''t Conan''s problem.

    "Alright then. I hope you adjust well." Conan nted his palm on the armrest, pushing himself up. As he was about to leave, Aries called him softly.

    "About бк" she paused, seeing Conan cock his head back. "About His Majesty..."

    "Oh? He is quite busy at the moment. Don''t worry. He will call for you once he settled some important matters." He reassured and smiled before he left.

    Aries stared at the shut door and let out a shallow breath. "That''s not what I was worried about," came out a whisper.

    For her, it would be better if Abel would be busy for the next ten years and not see her. But obviously, everyone would think servicing the emperor was an honor.

    "Never mind." She nced at the books on the table, biting her lower lip.

    "I asked him to take me in, so of course, I should learn how to please him," she murmured, sprawling her arm to pick up the book. As she opened it, she took a deep breath.

    "After all, he was the person who saved me from hell." Her eyelids drooped with hatred, recalling the tragic life she went through in the hands of the crown prince of Maganti. "He is the person who got me out of that lunatic''s clutches." бк although deep down, Aries knew it was her own efforts that saved herself for she took up the courage to enter a deeper kind of hell.

 Chapter 3 Pet

    Meanwhile, in the emperor''s office, Abel sat behind the desk. His feet were resting on top of it, recliningzily in his chair while swinging his bloodstained hands on his side. Conan sighed seeing that all curtains were closed, leaving no room for light to enter.

    "Your Majesty," Conan called with a sigh, gazing at Abel whose face was covered with parchment. If anyone saw the emperor''s current state, rumors about the emperor losing his mind would spread like wildfire.

    "I went to see your pet, and she had recovered properly. The bruises on her body lightened up, and she seemed to have adjusted well." He reported, but Abel didn''t move in the slightest. "I gave her books to read so she can learn about the custom of the empire and history. Fortunately, she can read the empire''snguage, so it''ll be easy."

    Nothing. Abel didn''t react at all.

    Conan let out another sigh and frowned. "I''ll be taking my leave, Your Majesty."

    Just as Conan turned around to leave the office, he halted when Abel spoke. He slowly turned his head back, knitting his brows as if he doubted his ears.

    "Pardon, Your Majesty?"

    "Conan, you know how I hate repeating myself." Abel slowly lifted the parchment that was covering his face. As he did so, he revealed a speck of dry blood on his hand, cocking his sharp eyes at Conan.

    "Bring my pet here, Conan. I''m bored. I nearly forgot about her."

    "Your Majesty." Conan winced in distress, looking around at the untidy office. But his gaze lingered longer on the desk, particrly on the severed head on the corner.

    Abel sat upright, nting his palm on the severed head of the person who attempted to poison him earlier today. He picked it up with one hand and tossed it to Conan like a ball. Thetter caught it out of instinct, cringing at the thought of staining his clothes.

    "Your Majesty! These clothes are expensive...!" heined while holding the decapitated head in his arms. There wasn''t a trace of fright in his eyes, only disgust.

    "Throw that garbage away." Abel waved as he assisted himself up. "I''m tired. I''ll just see my pet and teach her a few tricks."

    "Your Majesty, you still have many things..."

    Abel frowned, making Conan hold his tongue. "It''s already finished." He cocked his head at the stack of documents on the floor near the shelves. "I didn''t want to redo them, so I asked her to put them aside before beheading her."

    p "That is very efficient of you, Your Majesty..." Conan mumbled helplessly as he nced at the documents. He then raised his head to Abel as thetter strutted around the desk.</anda>

    "Your Majesty, you will really see your new pet? Why won''t you wait for her while I call for..."

    "No need." Abel waved, marching out of the office nonchntly. "I''d rather see her reaction if I suddenly appear like this. Hehбн can''t wait."

    Conan''s under-eye twitched, catching Abel lick his canine with eyes glinting. Well, since the emperor had been busy from the world summit and had to work on the things concerning the empire, a break would be good for him.

    "I wonder if she will live until tomorrow," Conan mumbled helplessly as soon as the door shut closed behind Abel. "Thest one he took in onlysted for a day, after all. I think His Majesty is trying to beat a record here."

    The emperor, Eustass Silvestri Abel Bloodworth, although known for his achievements as the emperor who ruled the empire with an iron fist, he had a notorious reputation with women. The emperor''s affairs were no secret among nobles, especially in the imperial pce.

    The problem was... the women he took in didn''tst that long. The longest affair he hadsted for two weeks, but then the woman went missing, never to hear again. Everyone already knew what happened, but they all turned a blind eye to it to avoid catching the attention of the emperor.

    "I feel sorry for her," Conan mumbled, gazing at the mess around the office. "I shouldn''t have asked her to study and instead told her to enjoy thest minutes of her life."

    <strong>******</strong><sub> </sub>

    Aries found herself immersed in the books Conan brought for her. Since she was always inclined toward history, she picked that book first. It was her little hobby to read and learn about other countries'' customs and their roots, so she enjoyed this new information.

    The Kingdom of Rikhill was a country known for its trade with other countries. The reason she learned to speak differentnguages was that they traded with other kingdoms. In this case, they could amodate guests from other nations without a problem whenever there was a huge asion in the kingdom.

    Now, she could use those little skills she learned while growing up to read the history of the Haimirich Empire. The more she read, the more she realized how different this ce was.

    "That is strange, though," she mumbled while cocking her head to the side. "The Haimirich Empire is known for its advanced technology. But the portrait of the previous emperors was barely hand-drawn."

    Aries didn''t dwell on it, though. She had noticed a few loopholes in the history book, but she med it on the empire''s custom.

    "The current emperor resembles the previous emperors," she whispered, stroking the small portrait with her fingertip. Although there were a few differences in their facial features, it was undeniable that their genes were strong.

    A sigh slipped past her lips as her mind drifted elsewhere. Her eyes remained on the open book on herp, thinking of what to tell the emperor once he called for her. Was she ready? At this point, she was more than ready to survive.

    She jolted from her seat when someone suddenly barged into her room. With shaking eyes, she caught a figure strutting inside with confidence higher than heaven. As soon as she realized who it was, her eyes dted and her back stiffened.

    "Hello there, my pet," Abel greeted, spreading his arms open. As he did, it granted her a full view of the blood smeared on his white linen blouse.

    "Your бк Your Majesty!" Shocked, Aries sprung up from her seat and curtsied on instinct. Her shoulders tensed up, keeping her head low while calming her heart from hammering against her chest.

    Didn''t Conan say this man was busy? What was he doing here so suddenly? And soiled with blood at that!

    "Oh, please, loosen up, darling." Abel plopped down on the settee she sat on, ncing at the book in her hands. "I came here because I''m bored. Come sit."

    Aries gazed at his hand as he tapped the vacant space beside him. She gulped down the tension in her throat before she carefully sat down. As soon as she perched beside him, Abel draped an arm over the seat, eyes on her.

    "You''re too far, darling." He motioned his finger for her to move closer. "How can I pet you if you''re that far?"

    "Uh..." Aries bit her tongue, moving closer to him. When she saw him lift his other hand and approach her, she shut her eyes on instinct. She just instinctively assumed he would p her since he was bored бк something she was already used to from the Maganti Empire. But, the pain didn''te.

    Aries kept her eyes closed, mustering the courage to peek. Once she did, the first thing she saw was Abel''s hand, which stopped midway.

    "Why did you close your eyes?" he asked, making her eyes veer to meet his eyes. The misced puzzlement stered on his face didn''t suit his sharp features.

    "Did you think I will hurt you?" he queried while tilting his head. "Should I do that so you don''t get disappointed?"

    Her mouth opened and closed, but no words came out. How was she supposed to answer that? If she told him the truth, it would definitely displease him. But if she lied, the result would be the same. This man didn''t bat an eye when he snapped that soldier''s neck. And even now, his clothes were covered with blood. She didn''t want to add her blood to his clothes.

    "There''s a reason I took you in as a pet, and that is because you can talk. Am I wrong??" he asked with a frown.

    Sensing he was starting to get annoyed by her silence, Aries acted on instinct. She suddenly grabbed his hand and pulled it until his palm touched her forehead.

    "Pet."

 Chapter 4 Shall We Bathe Together, Darling?

    "Pet."

    Abel raised his brows while she held on to his wrist with both her hands, guiding it to pet her head. No one dared touch him before because whoever attempted would lose their hands or life. But the little surprise he gave her pleased him in a way.

    He smiled, chuffed at how she managed not to piss him more. So Abel ruffled her unique emerald hair with delight.

    "What a smart pet," he intoned with a chuckle. "Will you bark for me if I told you to?"

    ''I think I''m saved,'' she muttered internally, releasing his wrist and letting him pet her himself.

    "Yes," she answered while sporting a weak smile. "Should I?"

    "Hmm..." Abel twirled a finger around the tip of her emeraldrge locks. "No need. I''m not in the mood."

    Aries nodded and didn''t speak a word. She had long let go of her pride as a human being, as she already learned her lesson from that lunatic in Maganti. So, even if Abel told her she needed to act like a dog, she would.

    At least, to Abel, she could stomach doing such things бк a tactic she could never do in the Maganti Empire. After all, she never obeyed the crown prince in the Maganti Empire. Her hatred for that crown prince was deep in the bones that she would rather get beaten before sucking up to him.

    But to Abel... Aries clenched her teeth secretly as she smiled at him. ''I''ll make you happy, Your Majesty. Until... I am strong enough to escape and save myself.''

    "You have nice hair color..." Abel paused as he noticed some blood stained the strands of her soft hair. He withdrew his hand and his smile instantly disappeared. This made her panic a bit as his mood suddenly went from heaven to hell. She already knew he was fickle, but not this fickle!

    "Your Majesty?" she called cautiously, raising her brows as Abel leaned back.

    "Darling, rest your head here." He tapped his thigh, but his expression remained grim. "And bring your book."

    Aries''s breathing suspending, but she still nodded and obeyed his orders. She picked up the book she was reading previously and awkwardly rested her head on hisp. Her feet remained out of the divan, so it was quite an ufortable position for her.

    "Lay downfortably," he said, noticing how her body was all tensed up. "Lift up your leg."

    She nced up at him for a second, lifting her legs up to fit the divan. Aries moved her stiff body until she found herfort with her head still on hisp. Once again, she set her pair of emerald eyes on him and he was just staring down at her.

    ''Why is he looking at me as if he will snap my neck for no reason?'' she wondered, swallowing down the tension building up in her throat. Instead of wondering, she cleared and throat and forced a smile.

    "Do you want me to read you a book, Your Majesty?" she asked, but Abel just tilted his head slightly.

    He nced at the book and let out a dryugh. "You will read me the history of my empire?"<sub> </sub>

    ''Well, do I have a choice? I don''t have any other book in here other than the ones Sir Conan left.'' That was what she wanted to tell him, but she just pressed her lips into a thin line.

    "Sure." Abel nodded as he drew circles on her forehead. "Tell me about the empire. It might somehow kill my boredom."

    Aries grasped the sarcasm in his voice, but she still read it in a soft tone. She picked up where she stopped reading, trying to focus on the book even though his fingertips that were stroking her hair tickled her. Her toes curled, stuttering, until she couldn''t suppress theughter from slipping from her lips.

    "Hah..." she flinched, covering her lips with the book with her eyes, studying him. To her relief, her sudden chuckles didn''t seem to offend him, but his brow quirked.

    "What?" he asked, running his fingers through her hair.

    "It... tickles, Your Majesty," came out a muffled voice, resisting from pping his hand away.

    "So what?" his brow raised even higher, staring down at her. He didn''t care if she giggle more, honestly. It sounded pleasant to the ear, but what pleased him more was her struggling face while she suppressed herughter. He wanted to see how long she wouldst.

    "Go on, read." He perked his chin towards the book that was covering her lips.

    Aries took a deep breath, clenching her teeth as she lifted the book. She cleared her throat and read again. She tried to ignore the ticklish sensation traveling through the end of her nerves, but that only made her break out in sweats.

    In the middle of her reading, Abel suddenly clicked his tongue. So she stopped and moved her shaking eyes at him.

    "You''re breaking out in sweats, darling." He pointed out as he wiped her forehead with the back of his hand. Due to sweat, the speck of dry blood on his hand smeared on her forehead.

    "Dirty," he muttered while staring into his palm. But Aries tensed up, believing he thought she was dirty for sweating. Before she could apologize, Abel locked eyes with her and spoke.

    "Shall we bathe together, darling?" he asked, causing the beat of her heart to stop for a second. "You''ve sweated a lot and I''m a little dirty... and bored. Just as I thought, the history is not fun when I already knew it like it was just yesterday."

    Aries held her breath as the side of his lips curled up into a smirk. She already prepared herself for warming his bed, so bathing together shouldn''t be a problem.

    "Alright." She nodded, relieved that he seemed pleased about it. As long as he was pleased, she knew she would survive, and that she was doing a good job. Little did Aries know Abel was sharper than she thought he was.

    In his eyes, he could see how she looked at him.

    Someone she had to cling on to survive and toss aside once she achieved the goal. That what lies in her harmless and stunning appearance was someone who had a n. And yet, this... thrilled him. Hence, she was still alive despite boring him to death.

 Chapter 5 Anything Too Much

    Aries slid down the tub until her chest was under the water. Across from her was Abel with his legs spread open, his knees over the water, arms over the rims of the tub, and leaning back, eyes on her.

    She kept quiet ever since joining him in the tub, and Abel too. Many ideas already crossed her mind about what he could do to her, but Abel had done nothing aside from staring so far.

    ''Does he like silence? Or was he waiting for me to speak?'' she wondered while sneaking a nce at him. The second she did, he held her gaze.

    "Darling, if you have something in mind, say it aloud." Abel finally broke his silence while tapping his temple. "Even if you keep your thoughts inside that little head of yours, I can tell you kept sassing inside."

    "Pardon?" бк could he read minds? She wondered in panic.

    "It''s written all over your face." His exnation was short and simple. "Now, let''s hear what is inside that head of yours. You don''t want me to open your skull to satiate my curiosity, do you?"

    Aries swallowed, hearing it in her ears. She knew thest remarks weren''t just a simple joke. Abel would surely do it if he so pleased.

    "I бк I was wondering if His Majesty likes me to stay quiet or to amuse you by talking," she confessed while staring cautiously into his eyes.

    Abel narrowed his eyes, scrutinizing her while stroking his chin. She sounded cautious with her tremulous voice and yet, she maintained her eye contact with him. Even when she stood naked before him, he didn''t sense any reluctance from disying her body. If anything, he sensed... confidence.

    "Guess," he answered, causing her brows to elevate. "What do you think I prefer?"

    Her lips pressed together, gripping her hand under the water. But she took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

    "Neither?" she answered and Abel tilted his head. "I don''t think His Majesty likes too much quietness, neither he likes too much talking бк especially talking gibberish...?"

    Pleased by her response, Abel nodded. "Good. If you just stay silent, I might misunderstand that you might wish not to talk. I can grant that silence, permanently."

    ''God... had he been thinking of silencing me earlier?'' Her shoulder tensed up as her heart pounded loudly against her chest. Hearing his answer made her realize she shouldn''t just y it safe. Instead, she had to y dangerously and take some risk to keep this man interested.

    "And neither I enjoy too much noise. Basically, anything too much. Do you understand my preferences now?" he asked, simpering at the sight of her.

    "Ye бк no..." Aries hung her head low, biting her tongue as toeing the line felt like walking at the edge of the cliff. One wrong move and it was over.

    "No?" Abel quirked a brow, watching her gaze up at him.

    "It''s tooplicated, Your Majesty."

    "How was itplicated?"

    Aries mustered her courage to speak but still chose her words carefully. "If my thoughts are irrelevant to you, then I will naturally keep my silence. But Your Majesty might assume it was my wish and grant it to me out of the goodness of your heart."

    "Haha! Then, think of other things that I will find relevant!" The corner of his lips stretched into a wide grin, chortling at how she made her point across while toeing the line but managed not to press a button.

    All the women he had been with would either throw themselves at him, and their only means to entertain him was to warm his bed. It was just a matter of performance. But this new pet he picked up was unconsciously breaking the pattern.<sub> </sub>

    He sort of liked it, but at the same time, don''t.

    Abel''s eyes narrowed evilly, making her shrink back at the sudden evilness leaking from his back. "Darling, do you want to keep me entertained?" he watched her hold her breath, causing his eyes to droop while keeping his smirk.

    "Then, how about this? Why don''t you do the things you will usually do to appease your old master?"

    Aries''s mind went nk for a second. What kind of game did he want to y? She scrutinized his smirk, and she instantly knew he enjoyed inflicting agony on others. He wanted her to relive those dark times in Maganti Empire.

    ''This sadistic man...'' Her fist underwater clenched while her shoulder tensed up. ''Did he think it is as easy as that?''

    "Hmm? Why aren''t you moving? You don''t want to y with me?" Abel inquired, blinking twice while cocking his head to the side. "Come on, darling. I just want to know how good you were for the crown prince to search for you all over that ce."

    Aries bit her inner lower lip before letting out a shallow breath. "I am already doing it, Your Majesty."

    His brows knitted while staring at her. She did nothing yet, and she was already doing it? The realization was quick to cross his mind as he rocked his head slightly.

    "You just stay still to appease him?" he chuckled, shaking his head while running his fingers through his jet ck hair. "I didn''t know the crown prince of Maganti is that tame!"

    "I never submitted to him," she exined in a quiet voice, gazing down the ripples on the tub while hugging her knees. "I''d rather die than be his dog."

    Aries stared down at her distorted reflection. Since Abel wouldn''t care, she didn''t mind telling him a bit of the summary of her life in Maganti. As she shrunk down, Abel only stared at her with no trace of human emotions on his face.

    "So, he simply forced himself to you?" he inquired, breaking the silence between them. She nced up at him before averting her eyes.

    "Yes," she whispered, abstaining from making eye contact with him. "He murdered my family, so I don''t see any reason I should please him."

    Abel tilted his head to the other side, batting his eyeszily. "I don''t believe you."

    Aries only nced at him to see his unmoved countenance. She told him that not to get his sympathy or for him to believe her. Abel wasn''t that type of person, and that was clear to her. She was simply telling him the truth since he wanted to know. But she didn''t find a reason to defend herself, since he would believe whatever he wanted to believe.

    "Come here." Abel crooked a finger, eyes glinting menacingly. She hesitated, but still crawled towards him.

    "Turn around and lie here," he instructed, pulling her shoulders to his body when she turned around. He kept her in between his legs, brushing her hair to the side.

    "I hate liars." Aries flinched when he stroked her shoulder, making him nce up. "If I prove that everything you said are lies..."

    Slowly, Abel bent over and bit her shoulder lightly. She winced slightly, clutching her hand without making a sound.

    "... I will disintegrate you."

 Chapter 6 His First Night Visit

    "... I will disintegrate you."

    Aries''s hands and feet turned cold at his threat while he nted a kiss on the area he bit. She carefully nced over her shoulder, only to see Abel trace her shoulder with the apex of his nose.

    ''This man will kill me,'' she thought, clenching her teeth secretly. ''Not now, but he will eventually kill me for sure.''

    If Aries added even the slightest lie in her story, the water in the tub would turn red with her blood. Fortunately, she unconsciously knew Abel was the person she shouldn''t lie to. Her shoulder rxed when Abel rested his forehead on her shoulder, shivering at his deep breaths hitting her damped skin.

    His arms that were draping over the rim of the tub slid down under the water, wrapping them around her lean waist. She was too thin, as he could feel her hip bone.

    "You feel so delicate," he muttered, resting the side of his head on her shoulder with his eyes on her. "So, why are you so obedient to me if you would rather die in that animal''s hands than submit? By now, I''m certain you realized that your old owner is better than your new one?"

    Aries rxed her body against him, hanging her head low. "Your Majesty is better."

    "Oh? You think so?"

    "His Majesty isn''t the one who ughtered my family. That alone already made you a thousand times better." Aries nced at him, locking eyes with him. "Even if His Majesty used me as a sandbag, it is still better than suffering in the hands of the man who took the lives of those who were dear to me."

    "Ahh... that''s what you mean when you say I am better бк a better option, not a better person... well, aren''t you daunting?"

    Her lips pressed into a thin line, mustering her courage to ask. "Do you find my honesty offensive, Your Majesty?"

    "Mhmm," Abel crooned, as his longshes fluttered ever so slowly. "Well, I don''t feel like snapping your neck, so maybe I don''t?"

    Aries opened her mouth but decided to keep silent instead. She had been toeing the line and god knows how nervous she was deep down. Abel was like a ticking time bomb and with one wrong word, he would kill her.

    She gazed down and let out a shallow breath. She didn''t notice until now that his touches weren''t sensual. It didn''t disgust her, even though they were skin to skin. Abel was simply holding her... like a real pet to be taken care of.

    ''But that doesn''t mean I will get away from serving him,'' she told herself to kill whatever silly thoughts that were attempting to resurface in her head. ''Men... are all the same, after all.''

    ? While Aries kept quiet, Abel stared at her while still resting the side of his head on her shoulder. The corner of his lips curled up into a diabolical smirk with his eyes glinting.

    ''I should kill her now,'' he said internally, but he didn''t move a muscle to do what he already ordered to himself.

    Normally, he didn''t need to tell himself, as he would act even before he could think about it. However, although the thought of torturing her while listening to her screams thrilled him, he just didn''t have the will to silence her.

    He also wondered why he was hesitating, when he already knew this woman was dangerous? But perhaps that was the main reason: theck of answer, the intrigued, the perplexity, the anticipation of the day she would shred her skin and show her real self.<sub> </sub>

    ''That''s even fun,'' he simpered while batting his eyes. ''Once she uncovers her facade, I will have a reason to kill her. Until then... let''s have fun, my darling.''

    upied by his own twisted thoughts, Abel didn''t consider that his decision not to kill her while early would lead to something... deeper, darker, and maddening.

    *****

    Abel helped her clean her body like how an owner does to their pet. Hisck of interest in her made her loosen up a bit until the servants came to assist her to change. Aries went out first and headed to her chambers with the help of the servants.

    Like the past several nights, Aries was already used to this routine of the maidservants dressing her up without speaking a word. But tonight felt different. All the servants remained quiet, but the way they looked at her was strange.

    ''It''s more like... they pity me,'' she thought, ncing at the three maidservants standing not far away from where she sat. As soon as she nced at them, the maids hung their heads low to avoid her gaze. She nced up, setting her eyes on the reflection of the maid, who was brushing her hair.

    The maid wasn''t looking at her, keeping her mouth shut while doing her job. Aries wasn''t friendly towards them, nor did she cause trouble for them. For the past month since Abel took her in, the only person she was able to talk to was Conan. Not that the servants avoided her, she just knew they were keeping a clear, safe line.

    ''Maybe they were looking at me like this because Abel said he will spend the night in my chambers.'' Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, clutching her skirt as she gazed at the mirror. ''They even put a light makeup... I''m scared.''

    After the maid finished brushing her hair, she took a step back. "His Majesty will soon arrive here, mydy. Please wait for him until then."

    Aries nodded, staring at their reflection as they left without saying another word. Once the door closed, she bit her lower lip and set her eyes back to her reflection. She cupped her cheek, forcing a smile.

    "Unlike a month ago, I look... better," she mumbled, nodding in encouragement. The bruises she had were almost gone now, aside from the bite marks Abel left on her shoulder. Aries pulled up her sleeve to cover the bite mark.

    "This is the least I can do." She exhaled sharply before assisting herself up. She marched towards the bed and sat down on the edge of the mattress, palms on her side, gazing down at her feet. She waited and waited until she heard someone announce Abel''s arrival and the door slowly opened.

    Aries lifted her head, and her eyes instantlynded on the man in his white nightshirt strutting inside. As the door shut behind him, she slowly stood up on the side of the bed with her hands before her.

    ''He really dide,'' she thought while raising her head up, watching Abel approach. He stopped when his toe touched hers, smirking at the determination in her eyes.

    "Darling," he dawdled, raising his fingers to tuck her hair behind her ear. "Were you waiting for me? How cute."

    Abel cupped her jaw as his eyelids drooped. His thumb brushed her lean cheek, staring into her eyes. It was clear she was scared, but the determination in her eyes reigned above everything else.

    "This is new, but well..." the side of his lips curled up into a smirk, tilting his head as he leaned forward to im her lips. Aries instantly shut her eyes, but he stopped when his lips were an inch away from hers.

    "Pfft бк!"

 Chapter 7 Once Youre Dead, Youre Dead.

    "Pfft бк!"

    Aries cautiously opened her eyes. What she saw was Abelughing until he hunched in and his hands on her shoulders. Her brows rose in confusion, watching the man lose his mind as he wheeze.

    ''What is so funny?'' she wondered, pressing her lips into a thin line while watching him. Did she read his intention wrong? But she was certain Abel meant to kiss her but changed his mind midway. She wanted to know what made him change his mind so she could use it for future purposes.

    "Your Majesty?" she called in a soft voice when hisughter subsided.

    Abel wheezed, wiping the corner of his eyes with his finger joint. "Oh, darling. How can you be so amusingly boring?" he set his eyes on her, shaking his head lightly.

    "Boring...?"

    "Yes, you''re so boring. It''s so funny! The irony, right?" the side of his lips stretched into a grin, pushing her on the bed without short notice. Aries''s eyes expanded when her back hit the soft mattress, realizing what he had just done.

    He stayed standing on his spot, staring down at her with his arms crossed. "Darling, if I asked you to undress right now, will you do it?"

    "Yes." Her answer was surprisingly quick as if her tongue already know the answer before her mind could process his question.

    "See? This is why you''re boring!" He sassed before pivoting on his heel, copsing beside her until his back hit the mattress. "No challenge at all! If I fuck you, will you even make a sound?"

    Aries nced at him warily. "If His Majesty wants me to stay quiet, I will not make a sound."

    "How hopeless, my darling. You will die early." Abel cocked his head to her, studying her frozen expression. "I mean it."

    "Then..." she took a deep breath, mustering a lifetime of courage and leaving none for her next life. "... how can I live longer?"

    "Hmm. Let''s see..." Abel peeled his eyes away from her and set them on the ceiling. "I always end up silencing a woman when her moans are so loud and hate it when they barely make a sound. So, out of the goodness of my heart, I also let them stay silent forever. I dislike it when they act like whores, but being too reserved also irked me..."

    The more Aries listened to his list of dislikes and likes, she realized one thing. Abel doesn''t know what he liked. Or rather, he disliked everything. If someone gave him one minor reason, he would deliver them to hell like a maniac.

    ''He means he will kill me either way, right?'' she looked at him helplessly, swallowing down the frustrating tension in her throat. ''It doesn''t matter if I''m submissive or defiant, the ending will still be the same. But at least, being submissive right now earns me more time to live.''

    "... are you still listening?" Aries snapped out of her thoughts when Abel set his eyes back on her.

    She nodded, closed-lipped. "I understand now."

    "Really? What did you understand?" his brow quirked, rolling to his side to face her and propped his temple against his knuckles. "Care to share?"

    Aries took a deep breath and slowly exhaled it through her mouth. "His Majesty will kill me if I''m too much."<sub> </sub>

    "Darling, you make me sound like an unreasonable man."

    ''You are, though бк perhaps, even worse,'' she replied internally but bit her tongue to suppress herself from saying it aloud. "Anything too much irked His Majesty. I will try to bnce it."

    "Really now?" Abel smirked while studying her alluring face. "How will you bnce it?"

    "I... will have to figure that out. If I stay long enough with you, I will surely figure it out." Her gaze lowered, as this was a tricky situation. The current data she has for Abel was insufficient to be the perfect pet for him.

    "Aren''t you good with your words, darling?" His smirk stretched even broader, pleased at her wise words. "So, you are asking me not to kill you just in case I lose my mind tonight?"

    Aries nced up at him, not confirming or denying it. Her hidden message was already obvious, but saying it directly could have a different oue.

    "My pet..." Abel raised his finger and poked the apex of her nose. "... you are certainly clever. No wonder you survived, but your kin didn''t."

    His brow elevated when he noticed her breathing suspend. He knew this was a sensitive topic to her, but he didn''t care. Actually, it was on purpose just to see what she would do or say.

    "Say... you didn''t sacrifice your kin just so you will survive, right?" his eyshes fluttered ever so slowly, smirking at her.

    Aries stared at him and in a split second, her clear emerald eyes glinted with malice. She was aware he was pressing her nerve so he would have a reason to kill her. Surely, this man was more wicked and sick in the head than she thought.

    "The crown prince of Maganti... I refused his marriage proposal and my father refused to be absorbed by their empire knowing they simply want to exploit ournd." Her voice was soft, albeit firm, while maintaining her eye contact with him. "It was stupid to resist an extensive empire like the Maganti, but we take pride in our beliefs and want to protect thend our ancestors protected."

    "And in turn, you neither saved thend nor its people. So yes, it''s not just stupid, you''re the worst."

    "They died fighting for what they believe and with honor."

    "There''s no honor in death, darling." Abel clicked his tongue continuously, twirling the tip of her emerald hair around his index. "Once you''re dead, you''re dead. I didn''t know the Rikhill Kingdom is full of numbskulls with pride bigger than their heads. The king is no king if he can''t sacrifice for his people."

    Abel chuckled in ridicule as he continued to press her nerves with the truth. "He didn''t want to sacrifice his daughter''s happiness, so he refused the alliance. What a dumb fool. In the end, not only did he deliver his people to their deaths, but his poor daughter also had to carry the burden of being the sole survivor of the royal family."

    Aries opened her mouth to argue with him, but her voice wouldn''te out. What he said was offensive and unforgivable as he doesn''t know her father or how Rikhill Kingdom was like. But s, she couldn''t also deny that the reason his words hurt like a dagger slicing through her chest was that they were some truths in it.

    "Do you understand my point, my darling?" Abel leaned forward. His smirk was akin to a devil attempting to ruin her pitiful soul.

    "Don''t cry." He clicked his tongue in a consistent rhythm, even though she wasn''t. Stroking her cheek with a finger. "The truth always hurts, but wallowing in despair is useless since the sun will still rise tomorrow with no condition. It''s your decision if you rise along with it orбн get devoured by the darkness. Whatever decision you make, I can help."

    Aries stared at him and let out a shallow scoff. "Is watching someone suffer makes you happy, Your Majesty?" бк she''s dead, was what instantly hovered over her head as soon as those words slipped past her lips.

 Chapter 8 The Potato And The Boy

    "Does watching someone suffer make you happy, Your Majesty?"

    As soon as Aries realized her question, she bit her tongue and held her breath. Her words came out of the spur of the moment as it was obvious Abel was having fun. He was like a devil enticing her to wallow in nothing but regrets, to carry the deaths of her people.

    He didn''t need to, though.

    Aries already realized that a long time ago. Back when that crown prince gave her a special seat during everyone''s execution. The crown prince made sure she will not miss a single death, etching that this wouldn''t happen if she didn''t think too highly of herself.

    "Isn''t it obvious, darling?" the side of Abel''s lips hooked up into a smirk, arching a brow as he looked at her. "It just doesn''t make me happy. I am over the moon!"

    Abel bent over until his face was a palm length away from her. "Why, my pet? Do you think I am wrong? Twisted? And mad?"

    "I didn''t say that, Your Majesty." She averted her eyes, closed-lipped. "Everything His Majesty said was all facts."  бк that included hisst remarks.

    "Mhm? You''re no fun, my pet. Just when I thought you will finally lose itбн hah, how boring." He grumbled in disappointment, dragging himself away from her and lying on his back. Aries heaved a sigh of relief as it seemed he dropped the subject as soon as he thought it was pointless.

    "Your Majesty," she called softly, knowing she couldn''t let him stay silent for a long time, as that would grant him time to think about how to kill boredom. Abel replied with a disinterested grunt and didn''t look at her, but that was enough for her.

    "I was enved in Maganti for almost two years. If I reacted weakly, that is because I already used up all my energy and feelings regarding that matter in the past two years," she exined while scrutinizing his side profile cautiously. "Living is my punishment; my way to atone for everyone''s death."

    "Ahбн meaning you''re already numb? How boring." She didn''t answer, but her silence was enough for an answer. Abel slowly closed his eyes and said nothing anymore.

    ''Is he going to sleep now?'' she wondered after a minute, staring at his long eyshes. Aries nearly jumped when he suddenly talked.

    "Keep talking," he saidzily. "Let''s hear what''s on your mind. I hate listening to nonsense, though. Make it interesting."

    Aries furrowed her brows as she looked up, ruminating on what sort of things he wanted to listen to. After a minute of contemtion, Abel spoke again.

    "Wowбн isn''t that an interesting one?" he remarked sarcastically, making her panic slightly.

    "Uhбн Your Majesty, there is this interesting one I knowбн!" Aries cleared her thought, thinking of anything random that might suit his taste. "бн it''s a short story about a boy who whines about boredom until he meets a potato."

    Aries bit her tongue as his eyes slowly opened. What did she just say? A short story about a boy who always whines about boredom? She wasn''t being sarcastic, though. This story naturally came to her mind because Abel kept whining he was bored. The only scary part was, he might snap her neck because he had nothing to do.

    "A boy who whines about boredom?" he repeated with an arched brow, setting his eyes on her. "And a potato?"

    Her mouth opened and closed like a fish as she watched Abel lie to his side again, knuckles propped against his temple. "That''s interesting, my potato. So, what happened with the boy and the potato?"

    "Well." Aries gulped as she looked into his dark red eyes. She had noticed this before, that his eyes were deadly but beautiful. Up close, Abel was a gorgeous man бк even more, gorgeous than any woman or man she encountered. If only he wasn''t crazy.

    "The potato argued with the boy about the fun of being outside, ying with children, and creating memories instead of being cooped up in his room," she muttered thoughtlessly, a bit distracted by the hidden re hidden behind his eyes. "The boy is stubborn, so he continued to argue with the potato every single day. Little did he know, the potato didn''t have a long life just like him. So, when the potato withered and died, only then did the boy realize how lonely it is to be alone again."

    She took a deep breath before she continued. "Only then did the boy realize the potato stayed on his side, even though they only argued instead of going outside where the potato could enjoy the remainder of his days. Only then did he realize the potato was actually his friend. So the boy went out to prove that the potato is still wrong, but... the potato is right. The boy sees what it is like outside, to y with children, to be kind, and to ept that he is not always right."

    "Hmm..." Abel rocked his head with a closed-lip.

    "Apparently, it is already toote since the boy couldn''t y with the potato anymore because he''s forever gone."<sub> </sub>

    "How sad..."

    Aries studied his unchanging countenance. "It is a bit sad, but the boy learned and changed from then on. The moral of the story is... sometimes, being right is not what is the most important. Sometimes, the people around us are even more important than being right." Her voice grew soft as a shallow breath slipped past her lips.

    In her previous life, before the disaster that befell Rikhill, Aries used to y with children and narrate children''s stories. She liked children, so she knew a lot about children''s stories. This story was one of her favorites. But Abel''s reaction didn''t change, so she didn''t know how he found the story.

    "Continue," he said, making her brows elevate in confusion. "I said to keep talking."

    "But the story ends there, Your Majesty."

    "Keep talking."

    "..."

    Abel''s expression remained the same, but she felt a sense of dread creep down her spine. So, Aries cleared her throat as she rummaged through her memories for more stories.

    "Have you heard about the red riding hood and the wolf?" she intoned with an awkward smile and continued to speak even though he didn''t answer. "Red riding hood is a lovely young girl who met a handsome wolf..."

    Aries kept talking until her throat was dry while he listened. In the midst of her third story, she thought Abel was just punishing her by making her lose her voice first. But who was she toin? As long as this man was entertained, that was what mattered to her. His boredom meant bloodshed, after all. Aries didn''t want to be his next victim.

    "So, the frog -- "

    "You talk a lot," he muttered in a dead tone, silencing her all at once. Her lower lip trembled, staring at him nkly. Who said to keep talking?! Aries was on the verge of tears as she was trying her best here.

    Silence enveloped them as she ended up pursing her lips while Abel just stared down at her. No one could tell what he had in mind but Abel.

    "Now you''re too silent." He pointed outzily, making Aries bit her tongue to keep herposure. She underestimated him. He wasn''t just a cold-blooded tyrant, but he had more loose screws in the head than she thought. If he was like this, she would go insane before Abel snapped.

    "Why don''t you just cry?" he suggested in his deep baritone voice, pointing a finger to one of her eyes. "Use this one and cry."

    "..." how could she do that?

    "Boring." Abel scoffed, fluttering his long, thickshes ever so slowly before he copsed on his back once again. He closed his eyes without another word, making her study his side profile.

    <o>,m ''Is he asleep now for real?'' she wondered cautiously while clutching her chest. After several minutes, she could finally heave a sigh of relief. It seemed Abel had fallen asleep. Her tensed muscles rxed at the thought of him sleeping, eyes on the ceiling.</o>

    ''I thought I will serve him tonight, but I''m d he just made me talk for a long time,'' she whispered inwardly. Aries was prepared to give her body to him since she already deemed her body as worthless. But just like when they bathe together, Abel''s touches didn''t signal any malicious or sensual intent. It was more like... he was touching a pet.

    ''Was that it?'' she wondered, casting the sleeping Abel a nce. ''Since he took me in as a pet, he doesn''t think of touching me as a woman? Even so, I cannot let my guard down. This man is fickle, and his mood swings are crazy. I need to work hard so he wouldn''t release his frustration and strangle me to death.''

    Aries closed her eyes, unbothered by Abel''s presence beside her. Her throat felt parch, but she just didn''t want to move to salivate her throat бк afraid any slight movements would wake him up. Before she sumbed to the darkness, herst thoughts were... ''I hope I will wake up tomorrow.''

    Minutes after her breathing grew heavier, Abel slowly opened his eyes. He didn''t move a muscle, staring at the ceiling. He turned his head to her after a minute and just stared at her in silence.

    "How strange," he mumbled, eyes still on her. "How can she sleep unguarded with the person who thought about ten ways to kill her while she was spewing those nonsense stories?"

 Chapter 9 Keep Him Entertained

    "Father..." Aries called under her breath as tears rolled down her cheek, watching her father get dragged into the scaffolds. Her breathing was suspended as the other man positioned her father to be beheaded. The voice that was stating the crimes of her beloved father sounded distant, as her mind was barely functioning.

    "Thus, with the atrocious crimes hemitted, he shall be beheaded."

    Those words sounded like a gong drumming right in front of her ears. The next second, therge-angle de of the guillotine dropped, and her father''s head entered the bucket while his blood pooled on the wooden nks. All she could do was stare nkly as they dragged the headless body of her father like nothing while dragging her brother to do the same to him.

    "Stop..." she whispered as her brother looked up, locking eyes with her. Thetter sported a weak smile, breaking her heart into smithereens.

    As her brother faced the same fate as their father, Aries could only ask one thing: how did Rikhille face to face with such a nightmare? Their country had been living in peace and prosperity with a wise and kind king like her father. With a harmonious royal family that was closed to their subjects, how did it alle to such a tragic end?

    The king and the rest of the royal family were deemed traitors. Those who fought alongside her brothers were disgraced. And all she could do was watch everyone she held dear to share the same fate. One after another, the blood of the royal family stained the floor as their heads left their shoulders in a blink of an eye.

    "What a sight to behold." A voice from beside her caressed her ears, bringing Aries back to her senses. She slowly turned her head to the side and her eyes instantlynded on a man.

    He had this yful smirk on his dashing face. His silver eyes were full of contempt while he stared at her in delight.

    "I specifically told my people to use the sharpest de so their death will be painless and quick. Aren''t I generous? A blunt de will take three tries until their heads fall over," he gloated, extending his arms towards her to wipe the tears on her cheek. "You should thank me, Princess. Instead of a blunt de, I am being merciful since I don''t want you to cry so much."

    Merciful? Generous? Ariesughed in ridicule. Sure, he was merciful for not using a blunt de that would make her family suffer even more.

    "Disgusting," she remarked through her gritted teeth, balling her hand into a fist. "You disgust me."

    The man smirked, unfazed by the remarks she uttered. "This is why the Rikhill had fallen. You think so highly of yourselves." In a blink, he grasped her wrist as he stood from his seat on the podium, where they were watching the execution.

    "What are you --" her breath hitched as the man, the crown prince of the Maganti Empire pulled her up without restraint. Aries winced in pain as she felt her arm joints loosen.

    "What am I doing?" he raised a brow and smirked evilly. "You will find out soon, Princess."<sub> </sub>

    As soon as those words tickled her ears, a sense of dread crept up her spine as he dragged her with him. Aries tried to fight, but when the crown prince had enough of her resistance, a punchnded in her gut. In the end, Aries could only gasp for air as he carried her in his arms.

    That day, not only Aries have to endure the agony of watching her family die right in front of her. But the crown prince had vited her to his heart''s content. And that was only the beginning of an endless nightmare that haunted her even after escaping that devil''s den.

    <strong>*</strong>

    Aries gasped for air as she snapped her eyes open. She was sweating buckets as her hands and feet were cold as ice. That nightmare again, she thought. Assisting herself to sit upright, running her fingers through her emerald locks. She gritted her teeth as her heart calmed down, seeing the familiar room in the Haimirich Empire she was staying in.

    ''Haimirich!'' she panicked as she gazed at where Abel slept; he was gone. A sigh of relief slipped past her lips.

    "I''m alive," she whispered while patting her chest. "I''m alive."

    Her eyes were filled with bitterness, bending her knees to hug them. Until now, Aries didn''t know why she was trying so hard to live day by day. Was it out of guilt? Her way of atonement? Or the growing hatred for the man who caused her pain? To prove to him that despite the hell he gave her, she would survive everything? Maybe all the above?

    She went through hell for the past two years with that wicked man who treated her as an object he could vite, harm, and toy with. So her determination to survive Haimirich, even if she had to act like a clown to keep Abel entertained, was stronger. She had lived this long бк two years was no joke.

    "I can''t die here just like that," she whispered, hugging her trembling knees to calm herself down. She looked at the door when she heard a knock, hearing a female servant''s voice telling her she brought her water to wash her face. Aries didn''t respond immediately as she took deep breaths.

    While keeping her silence, she turned her head towards the window. "Abel... as long as that man is happy, I will live in peace. All I need to do is to make him forget about me once he found a new pastime." She nodded, eyes burning with determination.

    In her mind, she had to carefully make her exit once Abel had enough of her so he wouldn''t kill her. And for that, she needed to maintain a good rtionship with Abel as much as possible to receive his mercy once the timees.

    ''You can do it, Aries,'' she cheered herself, holding her fist up. "Keep him entertained."

 Chapter 10 Marquess Vandran

    "This is Marquess Dexter Vandran, your instructor in literature, and I will be your tutor in history. We''re still looking for suitable tutors for your other subjects."

    Conanid his hand in front of the man standing beside him with a kind smile on his face. Aries curtsied to greet them, offering a meek smile.

    "I will be in your care, Marquess Vandran, and Sir Conan."

    "Don''t worry about it. Marquess Vandran will brief you about your ss and tomorrow will be the start of his official lesson." Aries nodded while listening to Conan''s instructions before thetter left the two alone in the library. She held her hand to stop it from shaking, feeling a bit awkward with her tutor.

    "Why don''t we sit, Lady Aries?" Marquess Dexter Vandran offered a kind smile, motioning his arms towards the chairs.

    "Uh, yes."

    The two of them perched across from each other. As soon as he sat down, he checked the books on top of the table between them. While he did so, Aries carefully studied the nobleman of Haimirich.

    ''Will he really teach me?'' she wondered, flinching when Dexter broke his silence.

    "I heard you can read our empire''snguage?" he inquired, casting her a quick look.

    "Uh... yes."

    "Can you tell me what you learned so far?" he inquired with his eyes on the book that was opened, flipping the pages with care. "I know history is not part of my lessons, but I would like to know how deep is your understanding."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she cleared her throat. She was d that this Marquess truly went to her to tutor her. So, this slightly put her at each before she exined the little understanding she had about the history of the empire.

    This was very unlike her life in the Maganti Empire. Not that she wasining. To be frank, this was not the kind of life she expected when Abel took her in. But then again, maybe it was just a matter of preference. Maybe Abel just wanted his pet to stand out as a smart one since he was the emperor. Everything around him should be exceptional.

    "That''s interesting." Dexter nodded, peeling his eyes away from the pages to her. "And you only gained this knowledge in two days?"

    "I still have many things to learn, my lord."

    "I know, but it''s interesting." Finally, a subtle smile appeared on the charming marquess as he closed the book. "I was told to tutor you and decide if I would like to take the job. I''m epting it."<sub> </sub>

    "Pardon?"

    His smile remained. "Mydy, Conan chose me, but the decision to be your official tutor still lies in my hand. Conan said you are quite exceptional, and he didn''t disappoint."

    "Oh..." she rocked her head in understanding, flustered by thepliment. It seemed the marquess had the liberty to refuse, she thought, thinking, that Dexter was probably an important subject. But then again, he was a Marquess.

    "I wille by tomorrow around the same time. Read the first chapter of this book and tell me your thoughts about it." Dexter handed a book of literature to her as he spoke. "You don''t have to beat yourself with it. I just like to hear your thoughts so I know where to start."

    "Alright. Thank you."

    The space between his brows wrinkled as she epted a book. "You don''t have to thank me, mydy."

    "But I still like to," came out a weak reply as she sported a subtle smile.

    "Too much kindness in this ce will be the death of you," he remarked in the same distant tone. "The pce is not a kind ce and it will ruin you if you''re not careful."

    "Thank you for the advice." She tilted her head down, standing up when Dexter stood. Thetter didn''t speak anymore as he beckoned a polite bow before leaving her alone. Aries stood in the same spot while staring at the shut door where Dexter left.

    She had noticed this before from Conan and the maids that were serving her. There was this firm invisible barrier around them, separating her from them. Hence, making her feel she was an outsider. Aries was already used to that sort of treatment, as she was also an outcast in the Maganti Empire. So, it doesn''t affect her.

    The only difference was, the people in this ce were still kind to her and treated her well. It was more like they were keeping their distance because they didn''t want to get attached.

    ''Should I try to reach out first?'' she wondered, walking back to her seat and gazed at the book Dexter handed to her. ''To survive, I needed allies. Although the people here are keeping their distance, they weren''t as hateful as those in the Maganti. I couldn''t feel hostility from these people too.''

    It was strange for her, but Dexter was right. This pce wasn''t a kind ce, especially with Abel on the throne. But sometimes, in a ce where kindness wasn''t needed, that light was also something that people would crave.

    Her eyes glinted as she leaned back, the book in her hand covering her lips. "I will not find out if I don''t try," she murmured, nning her way to gain more allies in this ce.

    ''I''ll start with the servants and Marquess Vandran. It''s not easy, but if I can get more information from them about Abel''s preferences. It will extend my life. Who knew when that man will finally snap?''

 Chapter 11 Lives For His Majesty

    One week had gone by in a blur. Aries'' lesson with Marquess Vandran and Conan proceeded as nned. She would spend the day with them, absorbing all the knowledge as much as she could. For the past week, Abel only visited her once and, just like before, he only made her talk nonstop.

    She was almost getting used to this life. Especially with Abel''sck of presence, Aries could breathe properly.

    "Do you think His Majesty wille tonight?" she asked, ncing up to look at the maid through the mirror. This was her first time talking to a servant, so she wasn''t surprised when thetter flinch.

    "Mydy?" the maid paused from brushing her emerald hair, looking back at her through the mirror.

    "Thest time His Majesty came, he didn''t tell me he wille. So, I was wondering if he woulde tonight." Aries sported a kind smile.

    "That... I don''t know, mydy." the maidservant hung her head low. "Please forgive this servant for not knowing."

    Her brows rose, seeing the reaction of the maid. She turned around in her seat, standing up to face the servant. Aries then nced at the two other maids, who were bowing from the distance.

    "It''s not your fault if you don''t know." She sighed and nted a hand on the maid''s shoulder, waiting for thetter to look up. When their eyes met, Aries sported a kind smile.

    "Thank you for taking care of me. You may resign to your rooms early tonight. I would like to rest early."

    "Yes, mydy." the maid bowed once again before she left without making a sound.

    Aries stayed on her spot while gazing at the shut door. "I pounded against that wall just now," she mumbled, recalling the surprise in the maid''s eyes when she nted her hand on her shoulder.

    She was certain that if she kept pounding on that firm wall around everyone, she would break it eventually. The walls the servants had were much simpler than Dexter''s and Conan''s. Aries didn''t want to even think about the invisible wall around Abel; there was no hope for that man.

    "I hope he doesn''te..." she trailed off because someone barged into her room. Speaking of the devil.

    Abel.

    This time, Aries remained calm as her eyes studied him. Just like thest time, Abel''s clothes and hands were stained with blood. But unlike that time, he was now holding a bloody sword.

    ''Did hee here to kill me?'' she wondered, but panic didn''te as expected. Instead, she was strangely calm. Was it because she was a bit exhausted today after working hard day and night? Or was it because she already knew Abel would kill her one day?

    ''No. I won''t die tonight.'' бк it was her determination to live.

    Aries sported a weak smile as Abel kicked the door closed, storming in her direction. Before he could swing his sword or talk to her, she already took a step to meet him.

    "Your Majesty, good to see you tonight." She smiled while looking into his sharp red eyes. "Shall I ask the maids to run you a bath?"<sub> </sub>

    Abel quirked a brow and tilted his head. "Why would you ask the maids to run me a bath? Do you, perhaps, find me... filthy?"

    "N бк no." The wrinkles on the side of her lips slightly faded, fighting this suffocating, murderous aura emanating from him. "How can that be?"

    Deep down, she was scared бк terrified was an understatement. Whatever irked this man, Aries didn''t know. But that didn''t matter. What mattered to her was for him to drop that sword and calm down.

    She raised her chin when Abel pointed his sword at her throat.

    "Then, tell me, my pet. Why shall I let you live?" all he could see was red, and if she asked for it, he wouldn''t have a problem plunging his sword to her throat. To his surprise, Aries held the de and took a step forward.

    "Will my death make you happy?" she asked in a soft yet firm voice, ignoring the blood that dripped down on her throat. "This humble subject lives for His Majesty. If my death will quench your anger, then I will dly ept your decree."

    "Hah... lives for me?" he snickered, as his eyes drooped menacingly. "In the end, you still asked for it."

    As he pressed the tip of his sword against her throat, he stopped. Aries kept her eyes opened, staring at him straight in the eye. It was just like that time, he thought. Those pairs of emerald orbs were always clear and determined.

    Silence enveloped them as his eyes fell on the blood that dripped on her white chemise.

    "You''re dirty." he pointed out, withdrawing his sword away as he took a step forward until they were toes to toes. Keeping the sword down, Abel tilted his head to check her throat. His thumb caressed her skin around her minor wound.

    "What is wrong with you?" came out a deep, menacing voice as he raised his sharp gaze to her.

    What was wrong with her? If she was going to answer, an entire night wasn''t enough. And she knew if she asked him the same question, an entire year wasn''t enough. What she did took a lifetime of courage, but that somehow calmed him down.

    Aries kept her smile for a bit. "Shall we bathe together, Your Majesty?" бк she had toed the line, so toeing even more was what she needed.

    Abel furrowed his brows and nced down, seeing that she was carefully slipping her fingers in between his bloodstained hand. When he looked up, Aries smiled kindly, as if the wound in her throat didn''t exist.

    "Please allow me to clean this blood away," she requested kindly, giving him an epting look. "It''s not good to sleep without washing up first. Shall we?"

    All he could do was stare at her in silence as she led him the way. His eyes fell on the hand that was holding him. She was trembling and he could feel that she was scared, but Aries was still sping his hand. His eyelids drooped until they were partially closed.

    ''Did she know the reason why I came here to kill her?'' he wondered, raising his gaze on her back. ''Lives for me...? Hah... what a funny lie.''

 Chapter 12 My Name, Say It.

    Aries had a hypothesis, and she took a gamble just to prove that point. From the little information she gathered about her brief interactions with Abel, it was clear he was someone who enjoyed watching others wallow in despair. He was crazy.

    That was why she tested to prove her point. When she didn''t flinch at the presence of death and acknowledge it with a smile, he stopped. She was correct. Abel wouldn''t like her death if it was that simple.

    ''I was saved by the skin of my teeth,'' she thought, staring at his hands as she wiped them clean delicately. ''I don''t know how many times this trick can save me, but I should use this carefully. He might just kill me if hepletely loses it.''

    Aries winced when Abel suddenly pressed a thumb on her throat.

    "It''s still bleeding," he said, making her gaze up at him. "You said you live for me. Don''t bleed without my permission."

    ''Are you kidding me? Just who is the person who barged into my room with a sword in his hand?'' she bit her tongue from running her mouth. Aries smacked her lips lightly, letting him check her neck while looking away. They were both currently in the tub, facing each other as she was wiping the blood off of him.

    "Keep still." Abel carefully snaked his hand and settled it on her nape, moving closer. He tilted his head to the side, leaning his face towards her throat. When she felt the fiery touch of his tongue against her wound, Aries entire body froze, wide-eyed.

    What the hell was he doing? Her mind momentarily went nk.

    Abel licked the trailing blood on her jugr up to the wound on her throat, eyes sharp as ever. His hand remained on her nape while the other carefully wrapped around her lean waist, underwater.

    "Your blood taste like wine." He licked his lips, drawing his head back, eyes still on her throat. The side of his lips hooked up when her throat moved as she gulped, waiting for her to lower her head to meet his gaze.

    "That is arousing. Shall we do it here?" he cocked his head, but his voice to her sounded distant. "Are you listening?"

    She snapped her eyes, nodding her head. "Su бк sure," came out a thoughtless reply.

    "Sure? Did you even know what I was saying?" he quirked a brow, pulling her waist closer. "I was saying if we should do it? Although you are my pet, I don''t mindmitting bestiality for a change."

    "..." This time, her expression died.

    "Haha. How amusing." Abel sported a yful smirk as her expression said it all. Although this was the second time they bathed together and held her und body, Abel was simply teasing her.

    Aftermitting debauchery for a long time in the past, he somehow found it boring. Still, he wouldn''t mind taking her right here and now. He also wondered why he didn''t test her skill on the bed the first time. Even right now that her small body was under his grip and was aroused by the situation, he didn''t want to resort to going further.

    Was it because watching her was far more amusing? Or was it because he was still anticipating for the day this woman would attempt to escape from him? Maybe it was thetter since that would give her a proper end.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line and hung her head low, cing her palm on his inked chest. "Yes," she whispered. "If His Majesty wants it, I will do everything to please you."

    When Abel didn''t react to her response, she mustered her courage to raise her head. To her surprise, she caught the emptiness in his eyes before it disappeared almost immediately.

    "If your death will make me happy, then you will dly ept it. If I want your body, you will give it to me without questions," he crooned, raising his hand and his fingertips caressing her cheek. "Just what will you not do for me?"<sub> </sub>

    Abel raised a brow, receiving silence as a response. "What is your name?"

    Her breath hitched, lower lips trembling as they parted. "Before Your Majesty took me in, my name is Aries."

    "Aries, right. I think that''s what Conan called you." He snickered, as he didn''t know her name until now. "What a name."

    "Will you give me another name now that I am your pet?"

    "A new name? No." Abel shook his head, leaning his face until it was only a palm length away from her. His eyes scanned her face as if etching her facial structure deep in his head.

    "Aries is perfect. You said you live for me, correct?" he raised a brow and she nodded with shut lips. "Then, since you are so faithful, I''m in tears, call me Abel, Aries."

    ''He wants me to call him by his name? He wouldn''t execute me if I did, right? This isn''t a trap?'' Myriads of question hovered over her head but jumped when he suddenly squeezed her waist.

    "Say it," hemanded, raising his brows briefly. "My name. Say it."

    "Your --"

    "Hmm?"

    Aries took a deep breath as she clutched her hand on his shoulder. "A бк Abel."

    "Good." Pleased, Abel pulled her body against him and wrapped his muscr arms around her delicate yet wed body. He felt her muscles tense up, but that made him smirk. He rested his chin on her shoulder, caressing her tensed back with his fingertips.

    "Abel is the name of the man you live for, Aries," he whispered in her ears, eyes full of contempt.

    "Yes." She hung her head low to hide her tightened jaw as she clench her teeth.

    "There should be enough bluffs to make someone dance in your tune," he added under his breath, grazing his lips across her bare shoulder. "Make sure to keep up the lie to keep me dancing in your tune because once I stop..."

    "You will disintegrate me." Ariespleted his sentence as that had been clear to her.

    He smiled, pleased. "No, worse." This time, Abel nted a peck on her shoulder before he drew his head back to look at her. "You will catch a cold if we stay here for long, darling."

    Aries just smile as she continued to wipe the remaining blood on his body. For some reason, when Abel told her to call his name, Aries heard a chain lock around her ankle. A chain that was meant to bind her with him... forever.

 Chapter 13 Mignight Sonata

    Aries panted for air as she sped her chest while on the bed. Her entire body was shaking as if she was exposed naked in the coldest time of winter. And yet, she was sweating buckets under the sheets.

    "Uh..." she turned to her side, opening her eyes weakly only to see the moonlight filtering through the window. "...it hurts."

    She winced as she touched the bandage around her neck. After bathing with Abel, her body was already burning. With the fresh wound on her throat and bathing two consecutive times, her body would react in a way. But she kept her act together.

    Abel nned to stay in Aries''s chambers for the night. But just as they finished bathing, he received a word. His expression changed and left Aries without a word. Still, before he left, he nced at her and smirked. That was his way of goodnight.

    To whoever or whatever reason Abel had to go, Aries didn''t know. But she was d he didn''t stay for the night. She barely kept it together while he was around, and if he stayed longer, he would surely find her grunting annoying. Considering his personality, Abel might even feel aroused and take her by force бк that was what she believed. Or rather, that was what her body and mind remembered experiencing every time she was sick in the Maganti Empire.

    ''I can''t be sick in here,'' she thought, knowing how defenseless she was in that state. ''I''m already too weak. I can''t...''

    Her breaths grew heavier as she weakly closed her eyes. As she did, she heard the faint sound of a piano. It was faint and if there was the slightest sound in her chambers, she wouldn''t hear it. But with her current state of mind, she simply thought she was hallucinating.

    Who would dare y the piano in the middle of the night? For the sound to reach her room, the sound would be even louder from where the sound wasing from. Unless it was Abel, but she doubted that. The sound sounded so nostalgic бк very unlike him, despite that, it was lulling anyone who was listening to sleep.

    The sound she believed she was hearing in her head still brought a subtle yet bitter smile to her face. They also had a piano back in Rikhill. She used to y with her little sister, who wanted to be a musician. Sadly, she also died.

    ''For some reason... the piece is soothing my yearnings.'' She thought, rxing her tensed body to sleep. ''I pray that I will feel better once the sun rises once again.''

    *******

    The loud sound of the piano as if it was in the middle of the day resonated across the empty hall. Abel sat in front of it, fingers ying on the keys, producing a soulful tune. His body swayed along with his arms, unaware of the moonlight from the open window stretching to reach him.

    He looked... majestic. If he was ying this moonlight sonata with arger audience, their jaw would drop as they held their breaths. Abel was beautiful, and so was the harmonious sound where he was lost.

    When he opened his eyes, his dark red eyes glowed, and the music stopped. He cocked his head back, eyesnding on the figure slinking out of the shadow. tinum hair and a cold countenance. The other man''s dark red eyes that appeared ck were sharp and intimidating. Even without trying, this person''s demeanor and presence were powerful enough to make a stranger wary of him.

    "Can''t you see? I am lulling my dearest pet to sleep." His voice waszy as ever, pressing some keys to make a yful sound. "I nned to spend the night with her, but then you came, Isaiah. My poor pet must be sad."

    "I am certain she was more than happy to not have you breathing down her neck, Your Majesty." Abel chuckled upon hearing Isaiah''s familiar, aloof voice. "The council meeting is approaching. Your presence is needed."

    Abel didn''t respond, ying a livelier tone just to tease his right-hand man, the Grand Duke of Fleure, Isaiah. The side of his lips curled up into an evil smirk, eyes glinting with malice.<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty." Isaiah, who was standing in the corner, narrowed his eyes when the sound went out of tune as Abel mmed his palms on the keys all at once. His dark red eyes were so dark it looked more ck didn''t even show any sign of worry at the sudden shift of atmosphere in the room.

    p "The council meeting..." Abel cocked his head back and quirked a brow at him. "... one good reason, Isaiah. Just one. Why do I need to grace those bunch of harlequins with the honor of my presence?"</anda>

    "They had been getting bolder nowadays."

    "Then you have my permission to ughter them since they seem to forget their ce."

    "It will be a three-day gathering. You shall set off tonight, Your Majesty." Isaiah ignored Abel''sst remarks and proceeded with the details of his schedule. "Shall I prepare your steed?"

    Abel huffed faintly as he gazed at the piano keys. "Sometimes, I am confused about who is in charge of this hell. Was it you? Isaiah? Perhaps Conan? You two seemed to think of me as a pushover."

    "We simply want what is the best for Your Majesty."

    "Oh? So, what do you think is best for me, Isaiah?" Abelzily set his eyes back to him, tilting his head a bit to the side. "Nevermind. Say, shall I take my pet with me?"

    "She is a human."

    "So what?" Abel snickered, producing a loud sound when he pressed his palm on the piano keys as he stood up. "The council meeting will be fun if she''s there. I''m thrilled to see what reaction she will have on her face once she realizes she entered a literal hell."

    "If her presence is needed, then I shall ask someone to fetch her."

    "Great!" Abel pped, watching Isaiah bow before walking around to leave. But when thetter was by the door, Abel spoke.

    "Nevermind. I changed my mind." He turned and caressed the piano keys with his fingertips, his smirk still present. "I''ll be sad if she dies so easily. After all, she lives for me. Can you believe her words, Isaiah? My pet lives for me."

    "Are you bragging?"

    "Yes, I am. Now, prepare my steed. We''ll leave Conan behind so someone can watch over my pet, just in case she suddenly gets dull and tries to escape." Abel smiled until his eyes squinted into mere slits. "I''d like to see what she will do, knowing I am not breathing the same air as she does."

 Chapter 14 What A Lazy Student. She Makes Me Proud.

    "Are you alright?"

    Marquess Dexter lowered his head to see if Aries was alright. He had noticed ever since he came that she has been even more silent. Although she was paler than usual, he pretended not to notice with that bandage around her neck. But now that her body was swaying slightly, he didn''t have a choice but to ask.

    "Mhm," came out a low hum, blinking weakly while reading the handout Dexter asked her to study. As usual, her prayersst night to feel better weren''t heard. Or maybe because she prayed under her breath that it didn''t reach whoever could hear her. Either way, Aries needed to be alright.

    Although Conan told her Abel left for an important trip бк which she didn''t care if it was hell or anywhere бк Aries didn''t want to be seen weak. Her eyes narrowed to read the seemingly scrambled letters. Before she knew it, her heavy head was already falling to the side.

    Fortunately, Dexter''s reflexes were fast. Using his palm, he caught her head from hitting the table. His eyes dted as she was hot to the touch.

    "You have a fever, mydy," he called with furrowed brows.

    "Mhm?" she forced her eyes to raise at him, snapping when she realized he was propping the side of her head.

    "You''re burning," he repeated while she drew her head back, noticing her paleplexion and the sweats on her forehead. "We''ll call it a day. You should rest for today."

    "No, it''s alright. I can..."

    "No." Dexter''s eyes grew colder while staring at the iprehensible expression on her face. "Imend your diligence in learning, mydy. However, you shouldn''t force yourself if you are not feeling well. I''ll leave a notice to Conan and inform him about your condi бк"

    "Please don''t." He frowned at her abrupt reply, watching her hang her head low. "Please. I will be alright after drinking water."

    Dexter remained silent, eyes on her figure. Staring at her like this, she seemed to shrink in her seat. He had heard a bit of detail about Aries. Such as she was someone Abel picked up somewhere, and she was a princess of the ruined Rikhill. Just the name of the ce she came from. He already had a vague idea of the tragic life she had led.

    Apparently, he couldn''t sympathize. Especially for someone who was bound to die. With the kind of temperament Abel had, Aries wouldn''t have a long life. The bandage around her neck was an indicator. That was better, he thought. Death was better than living under the same roof as Abel.

    ''How tragic,'' he muttered inwardly and let out a shallow breath. ''To be struck with a series of misfortune. Was this a trauma response?''

    Another minute passed before he decided. Dexter closed the book in front of her, stacking three more books on top of it. Aries furrowed her brows, breathing heavily as watching him move made her a little dizzy.

    "Head." He tapped the top of the book. "If you don''t want me to tell Conan, rest here. I''ll pretend we''re still having our lesson."

    "But..." Aries trailed off as Dexter cocked his head to the side. Left with no choice, she awkwardly rested the side of her head on top of the stack of books. It was ufortable, but her eyes felt heavier. Surely, forcing herself didn''t help her delude her body that she was alright. It only worsened her fever.

    With the silence as if she was the only person in the room, Aries tensed shoulders gradually rxed. It didn''t take long when her eyes shut closed, sumbing to the rest her body needed. But before she entirely fell asleep, she whispered, "thank you."

    "You don''t have to." Dexter shook his head and opened a book to read. Consider it his generosity, since she seemed she truly didn''t want to inform Conan about it. Although he still nned to notify Conan right after their lesson so she could rest even more.<sub> </sub>

    "Why is she even studying when he will kill her once he is bored?" he wondered, ncing at the woman across from him.

    It was strange and rather shocking when he received a letter from Conan, asking him a favor to be someone''s tutor. He wanted to refuse, but this piqued his interest. Hence, he epted the invitation with a condition he would check first beforepletely epting the role.

    Now, here he was. Teaching someone who was bound to die. Well, he was just here to feed his curiosity. Dexter shook his head, shifting his attention to the book he was reading. Never mind, he thought. All he has to do was tutor her while she was breathing. But just as that thought crossed his mind, he raised his eyes at the door when it abruptly opened.

    "Your Majesty." Despite the sudden arrival of Abel, who was supposed to be out of the country, Dexter remained calm. He slowly stood from his seat, beckoning a proper bow for the sovereign of Haimirich.

    Abel quirked a brow, darting his eyes from Dexter to Aries, who didn''t rise from her seat. Although he sort of disliked the harmonious atmosphere in the room as it made him feel like he ruined something, he pretended not to notice.

    "Is she dead?" he inquired while cocking his head to the side.

    "She is asleep, Your Majesty. Shall I wake her up?" The dashing Marquess replied while raising his head slowly.

    "What azy student. She makes me proud." Abel chuckled, strutting his way to her. He walked around and stood behind her chair, nting his palm on the backrest before bending over to her side. A frown instantly appeared on his face, noticing her paleplexion and deep breaths. Before he could speak, Dexter already exined.

    "She was about to copse in the middle of our lesson. However, she didn''t want to inform Sir Conan about it. So I told her to rest in here since she didn''t want others to know." Dexter studied Abel, but there wasn''t much to see. Thetter just stared at Aries as if he was appalled, rather than concerned.

    "Tell Conan on your way to see the maids who took care of her this morning. They shall be hanged. How dare they?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    To Dexter''s surprise, there was this slight annoyance in Abel''s usual indifferent voice as he gave his orders. But the surprise didn''t stop there because the next moment, Abel poked her cheek.

    "Wake up." Abel poked Aries''s lean cheek a couple of times, but she didn''t wake up. "If you don''t, you will never wake up."

    But nothing. The only response he received was her deep breaths. Normally, he would''ve unsheathed his sword and plunged it into her nape to do her a favor. But he didn''t. Instead, he simply frowned.

    "She still hadn''t learned. Darling, shouldn''t you be wagging your tail in the presence of your owner?" he clicked his tongue, squatting down a little while holding her wrist over his shoulder. In one swift move, he carried Aries into his arms like a child.

    "What a bother," came out aint, ignoring Dexter as he marched away.

    As he did, Dexter stayed on his spot wordlessly. His eyes remained on Abel''s back, catching Aries''s face that was resting on the emperor''s shoulder.

    ''Hmm...?'' he narrowed his eyes before a smirk turned up on his lips for a split second. ''That''s interesting.''

 Chapter 15 Tamed

    "Don''t touch me." Aries pped the hand that was reaching for her weakly. "I... I don''t feel good."

    She looked away, breathing heavily while clutching the sheet closer to her chest. She was sick, very sick. And this man... this man dared barge into this room where he was caging her for a reason she already knew.

    "So what if you''re sick?" came out a mocking question, making her gaze ahead to face the man. Her room was dark, having only the moon shining from the small window as their source of light. But even with the dimness, she could see his smirk clearly.

    "Aries, until when will you think you are that pure, untainted princess? Hmm?" he inquired sarcastically, leering at her. "When, in fact, you are nothing but a toy who I use whenever and wherever I please."

    A chuckle slipped past her lips, looking at him with eyes full of ridicule. "Is that supposed to make me cry?" her eyes glinted when he suddenly grabbed her jaw, covering her lips with his palm.

    And yet, despite the terrible condition of her burning body, her eyes glinted with nothing but hatred. Two years. She had been battling this man for two years. Even Aries didn''t know why she kept on pressing his nerves when she already knew she couldn''t fight him. But... submission never crossed her head. Over her dead body.

    The man sighed and let out a short chuckle. "Oh, Aries. When will you learn? Or... is this a tactic? To go against me to keep my attention?"

    "Over my dead body," came out a muffled retaliation, making his grip tighten. The next second, he pinned her down and crawled on top of her. As usual, she flung her arms to fight back, but to no avail. He simply held her wrist over her head, nting his knee on her thigh while biting her neck.

    Aries gritted her teeth, wriggling her body for yet another hopeless struggle. But nothing. No matter what she did, no matter how loud she yelled, and no matter how she cursed this man... no one woulde to her rescue.

    "Disgusting," she whispered, looking away to hide the tear that spilled from her eye. "You... disgust me."

    *

    "Disgusting..."

    Abel cocked his head, blinking cluelessly while watching her whisper in her sleep. He was sitting on the bed beside her with his legs crossed in front of him, elbows on his thigh, cupping his cheek.

    "Are you, perhaps, dreaming of me?" he asked at the sleeping Aries, but she simply grunted. He frowned as her face wrinkled, experiencing a terrible nightmare. She looked in pain, clutching the end of the pillow.

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips, gravitating if he should wake her up or let her suffer. Well, it was not like waking up didn''t mean another nightmare. Also, Conan told him to let her rest unless he truly nned for her to die. So he was behaving for hours now.

    "Mhm..." she grunted, panting as she broke out in sweats.

    "You should wake up if your nightmare is that bad." He rolled his eyes, frown growing worse by the second. "Darling, let''s y. I''ll be kind."

    He slid his foot forward, poking her arm with his toe lightly. He poked her a couple more times, but nothing. Aries would still grunt, pant, and shake lightly.<sub> </sub>

    A deep sigh escaped his nostrils, realizing these subtle actions wouldn''t wake her up. He raised his hands, sporting a stance to push her off the bed. However, he stopped when his palm was an inch away from her because Conan''s warning hovered over his head.

    "How do I punish Conan?" he wondered, quirking a brow when her muttering grew louder.

    "No... no, no, no... not them... stop..."

    Abel snapped his tongue. This sort of sight didn''t particrly entertain him. So he raised his hand to wake her up but stopped midway when her eyes suddenly popped open, gasping.

    "It''s not me," he said, keeping his hand in front of her. "I behaved."

    Aries narrowed her eyes to see clearer in the dark. When she heard his words, it somehow sounded different. It was not Abel whom she heard, but rather someone close to her heart. Someone who would spew those types of words.

    A subtle smile appeared on her face, raising her hand towards the hand that was hovering over her. She slipped her fingers in between the gaps of his fingers, making him arch his brows.

    "You''re here?" she whispered, heaving a sigh of relief while blinking weakly.

    Pleased, Abel carefully wrapped his fingers around her hand. "Yes. I''m here." He bent over, shaking their hands sideways.

    "I returned because I changed my mind on my way to hell." The corner of his lips stretched proudly. "You know what why? I was thinking it was more fun ying with you than with them."

    That was actually not entirely true, but he was thinking of Aries on his way to the ce he was heading. Herplexionst night was not good, after all. And he was correct. Aries was already running a fever the second he returned.

    A soft chuckle slipped past her lips as she closed her eyes,ying on her side. "Come here." She weakly patted the side of the bed, inviting him to lie beside her.

    "Ah?" Abel smacked his lips and happily obliged. To his surprise, as soon as heid down beside her, Aries wrapped her arms around him. She squeezed herself to him, catching him off guard for the second time in a short time.

    "Darling, aren''t you the sweetest? I had no idea you missed me this much!" he intoned, pleased, as he wrapped his arms around her. He was already used to women seducing him until he felt like puking. But Aries''s actions were different. It was more like... a pet finally acting tamed. This put him in a good mood as he believed he was exceptional, even in training a pet without trying.

    She breathed heavily, smiling in relief. "Mhm. I really miss you, you have no idea..." his smile stretched broader, but it was short-lived upon hearing her next words.

    "... ric."

 Chapter 16 Who Is Alaric?

    "ric."

    Abel narrowed his eyes and nced down at Aries. The smile he had previously disappeared without a trace. ric? Did she mistake him for a person named ric while being too snugly? Hah... not that he was particrly angry or sad about it.

    In fact, Abel had long forgotten what happiness, sadness, guilt, anger, and those emotions felt like. He couldn''t even recall thest time he felt those types of emotions. But... one thing was for sure. Being mistaken by someone else was unpleasant.

    "I''m not ric," he said coldly, letting out a shallow breath as he carefully snaked his arms around her waist. "Abel. That is the name you lived for, remember? Darling?"

    Without a second hesitation, Abel sat her up and slightly made her brows furrow. The abrupt movement made her crack her eyes open and hum. She felt dizzy as the movements continued because Abel cradled her in his arms and carried her out of the bed.

    Abel then sauntered towards the window and opened it, ignoring the slight movements she was making.

    "Hmm?" Aries tried to open her eyes, clutching his shoulder on instinct. What was going on? She wondered before she felt the night breeze caress her face.

    "Darling, you should wake up before I throw you out of the window." His distant voice hummed in her ear, confusing her to hear Abel''s voice when he shouldn''t be in the empire. "Who is ric?"

    Aries''s already knitted brows wrinkled even more as she forced her eyes to open. When her vision grew clearer after a few blinks, her eyes dted seeing Abel''s poker face. She looked behind, gazing down on instinct, only to see the overwhelming height from the window to the ground.

    That very second, it was as if someone pped her awake as she instantly got a hold of her consciousness.

    "Your Majesty!" she clutched his sleeve and looked back at him, wide-eyed. What does he want this time? Yesterday, he wanted to kill her with a sword and now, he was throwing her out of the window?! No. That wasn''t important, nor it was surprising. What was Abel doing in her room?!

    "I will only repeat my question once. Who is ric?" her entire body stiffened at his sudden query. His eyes were glinting menacingly, and she knew right there and then he wasn''t joking. He would throw her out of this window if her answer wasn''t satisfactory.

    Her mouth opened and closed like a fish, staring into his unaffectionate eyes. She wanted to answer, but she couldn''t find her voice to speak. How could she? On top of her fever, she was confused, shocked, and terrified at the nightmare she woke up to. Had he gone mad?! No бк he was already crazy.

    "Very well. It was fun. Goodbye." Just as Abel was about to let her go, Aries''s grip tightened as she hollered.

    "My sister!" she panted, holding on to him as if she was holding on to dear life. "A бк ric... is my sister. My younger sister!"

    Abel quirked a brow. "Sister?"

    "Yes!" she nodded profusely, hoping he would believe her.<sub> </sub>

    "Hmm... do I look like your younger sister?"

    "Huh?"

    "You called me ric, embraced me, thinking I was that person and said you miss me. Darling, can''t you make up a better lie than that?" Abel cocked his head to the side, blinking nkly, unmoved by the fear dominating her face. "I hate liars."

    "But I''m not lying!" she yelled through her gritted teeth. Aries didn''t know where she got the courage to raise her voice, but she didn''t care. Was it because she wasn''t feeling well? Or just her desperation to live? Either way, she held onto him while staring into his eyes without faltering.

    "You can check if you look into the fallen royal family of the ruined Rikhill," she added in the same urgent tone. "Your бк" Aries bit her tongue as he narrowed his eyes, so she corrected. "Abel, please... kill me if you didn''t see ric''s name in my family records."

    Abel hummed, pondering about her words before his lips parted. "Who do you like better? ric or me? Don''t lie."

    His tricky question caused her brain to stop momentarily. How was she supposed to answer that? The answer was obvious. But even though she wanted to lie, she couldn''t! If she answered honestly, he would throw her out of this window. It was the same if she lied.

    Aries finally looked down, breaking her eye contact with him. "Abel... why are you doing this to me? ric is dead, she was hanged right in front of me. And I''m... I''m trying my best to like you... but why do you have to make it so hard?" бк she was dead, either way.

    But, if this was thest time she could speak, she wanted to be honest with him. It may not move him, but at least she could express herself for thest time.

    She looked up, loosening her grip on his shoulder as she had enough of him. She had enough of this damn, cruel world that kept punishing her for the crime she didn''t know what.

    "ric was young and full of dreams, but her life was cut short cruelly." Aries took a deep breath, surprised at herself that she felt rather at peace as she slowly acknowledge death. She only lived two more years than her family, and now she would reunite with them.

    The side of her lips curled up mockingly. "A word of advice. The next time you take in a pet, make sure they were just as mad as you. So they won''t have any attachment to their family." As soon as those words left her lips, Aries pushed him and jumped out of the window.

    It was over, she thought. It was a tiring two years, and it was such a shame that after all that struggle, she gave up trying. While free-falling, a subtle smile appeared on her lips. She caught Abel looking out of the window with no change of expression, but that didn''t matter as she closed her eyes.

    Meanwhile, Abel frowned while watching her figure fall down. "Well, how sad she just lived this long." He shrugged and turned around to walk away. But just as he took three steps, he halted and let out a deep breath.

    "What a piece of work," came out a mutter as he sauntered back to the window, nting his palm on the windowsill and hopping out without a second hesitation. "You should''ve lied just like what everybody does."

 Chapter 17 Who Said Youre A Flower? Arent You A Potato?

    GASP!

    Aries snapped her eyes open and gasped for air. The familiar ceiling of her room in the Haimirich came to sight, baffling her instantly.

    ''A nightmare?'' she wondered, blinking countless times. She flinched when Abel''s sleepy voice caressed her ears.

    "Sleep some more." She looked to her right, wide-eyed.

    There, Abel was lying beside her with his arms wrapped around her. His nose that was on the side of her neck slightly tickled her with his hot breaths hitting her skin. For a moment, her mind went nk, studying his closed eyes and those long, thickshes.

    What was going on?

    Aries could vividly remember what happenedst night, but... she jumped out of the window. Her eyes veered to the window she jumped from, only to see that a curtain was covering it and all the windows in this room. Was that a bad dream? Now, she was unsure because her memory ended when she saw Abel jump out of the window second after her and then cradled her midair.

    There was no way the two of them could survive that fall. Still, even if that was just a bad dream, everything in it felt real.

    "Sleep." Her thoughts suspended when he spoke once again, pulling her body closer until his face was buried in her neck. "y dead."

    "..." She blinked countless times, mind malfunctioning momentarily. Myriads of questions hovered over her head, but this man wanted her to y dead. Was this the right time to y with him? Forget about that strange dreamst night. What was he doing here?!

    Conan told her that Abel wouldn''t be in the empire for at least a month. But a day just passed. Did she... perhaps, go into aa? Or did Conan lie to her? But there was no reason to lie about something like that. All sorts of silly thoughts tangled with the questions in her head, almost driving her insane.

    "Something happened to the ce I was heading, so I went back." After some time, Abel exined after sensing her loss of touch in reality. "Are you not happy to see me, darling?"

    "No бк no, that''s... not it..."

    "Then, what is it?"

    Aries gulped, setting her eyes cautiously to him. "Just... a bit surprised, that''s all." She watched how his longshes fluttered as he opened his eyes ever so slowly. She held her breath as soon as he locked his eyes with her.

    "Feeling better now?" he inquired in a deep andzy voice.

    "Uh, yes." She nodded slightly as her fever went down significantly бк almost miraculously impossible бк as she never felt this light before. It was as if she didn''t have a fever in the first ce. After the Rikhill Kingdom fell into the hands of the Maganti Empire, her experience caused a lot of stress to her; physically, mentally, and emotionally.

    Even when she was being taken care of in this ce, her body was still suffering. So, Aries always felt that her body was heavy. But now... it was almost like she waspletely cured, not just from that fever, but from all the fatigue she was carrying like a curse.

    "Good." Abel crooned before closing his eyes once again. "Stay still. You won''t have your sses today. They said your body had undergone a lot of stress and is over fatigued. It saddens me, but I won''t touch you."

    Her breath hitched, staring at his face up close. She almost doubted her ears listening to him, but what shocked her the most was hisst remarks. Not that he had ever touched her; although he suggested one time if they should be intimate. After a minute of observing him, her tensed muscles gradually rxed under his embrace.

    By the looks of it, Abel didn''t n to do anything but still her on the bed. Again, she couldn''t help butpare. If this was Maganti, that sick man wouldn''t leave her alone until he had enough. But Abel was different.

    He might be cruel and crazy, but he had done nothing to her aside from trying to kill her with a sword. Even in her dreams, he was trying to kill her by throwing her out of the window. But for reasons, she was still breathing.<sub> </sub>

    Aries pressed her lips and cleared her throat softly. "Wee back, Your бк Abel," came out a whisper, knowing she had to say something.

    "Do you like me now?" he asked, opening his eyes until it was partially open.

    "Pardon?"

    "I''m sleepy. So I will pretend not to notice if you lie."

    Was he giving her a chance to lie to him and answer "yes!" without feeling guilty or scared? Aries bit her tongue, stopping herself from taking that tempting offer. Her mind was set for a long time investment. So, although what he said was tempting, she wouldn''t take it. She didn''t want Abel to have the slightest hint that this rtionship was built on the cobwebs of lies.

    "Uhm... Abel? What do you think having a pet is like?" she asked instead of answering him. Since he said he was sleepy and had no energy to point out lies, she wanted to use this opportunity to nt the seed of trust in his callous heart.

    Abel hummed and pondered. "Pet it if it''s good. Tame it if it''s wild. If it''s dumb and persistent, then kill it."

    "..." Her under-eye twitched, but she tried so hard not to show it. She should''ve expected this much from him.

    "But... how will it obey if you don''t show that you are trustworthy?" she bit her tongue once again when he looked at her with an arched brow. There was no turning back, she thought. Aries took a deep breath to continue the message she wanted to ry to him.

    "Having a pet requires more than just putting a cor around their neck. If you show enoughpassion to it, even without a cor, they won''t leave their master," she exined, choosing her words carefully.

    "Are you saying you will leave me?"

    "No!" she panicked, shaking her head profusely. "What I''m saying is, it''s like growing a flower! It will only bloom beautifully with enough care. You''ll only see the result by then."

    Abel frowned. "Who said you''re a flower? Aren''t you a potato?"

    "..." Should she give up at this point?

    "Hmm..." Abel hummed as he closed his eyes once again, pulling her body until there was no gap between them. "Potatoes are eminently tasteless, but they can sustain a man and stand as a protection against famine."

    "Your Majesty, a rich man''s luxury is to eat everything without worry. But the world is round and is full of struggle. I''m not saying you will face an omen..." Aries carefully raised her brows as she exined her point. "I''m just saying, since a rich man isn''t a gourmet who can discern a good potato from the bad one, it is best to grow a good one, just in case."

    "Your fever really went down," he hummed, with eyes still closed. "Rest more otherwise, my potato will be a bad crop.".

    That was all he said before silence enveloped the room. Was that a good sign? Or did he shrug her words off? Aries was unsure. She gazed at him and carefully wrapped her arms around him.

    "Potatoes can be baked too..."

    Abel opened his sharp eyes, shutting her up instantly. "I said I won''t touch you, but one more word you''ll see what happens."

 Chapter 18 Get Mad On His Own

    Two days had passed in a blur and for that two days, Aries only stayed inside her room to recuperate. Abel didn''t stay long in her room that day because he had matters to attend to. But he visited her during the night while she was asleep.

    Aries gazed at the maid that was assigned to assist her. She had noticed it yesterday that these servants weren''t the servants who regrly served her.

    "Uhm... can I ask where are the servants that usually assist me every morning?" she inquired, staring at the maid who was helping her prepare to start her day through the vanity mirror. Thetter gazed at her cautiously before lowering her eyes.

    "They were reassigned to another task, mydy," came out a polite and stiff reply.

    Aries frowned, brows wrinkling. "Reassigned?"

    "Yes."

    "Will they return to serve me?" she inquired, but the servant simply cast her a cautious look.

    "Depends, mydy. I am in no position to reassure you. Did I do that upset you, mydy?"

    "No, it''s nothing like that. I''m just curious." Aries rocked her head slightly, stopping herself from probing even more. The maid continued to braid her hair, as per Aries''s request, in silence.

    Aries already had a wild guess about what happened to the maids, but obviously, she was asking the wrong people. It was such a shame that the previous one who was serving her seemed a lot easier to get their trust. These new ones felt more distant.

    While keeping herself still, Aries nced down at her hand. Her body felt lighter, and she physically felt good after recovering from that fever. She had been resting ever since Abel took her in, but this feeling was different. It was as if her body returned to what it felt like before the tragedy that befell Rikhill.

    ''Nevermind.'' She mentally shook her head. ''Since I miraculously feel good, I can think clearer and loosen up a bit.''

    Ever since Aries came into this ce, she had been very uptight, afraid to make mistakes. If not for the fact she was atoning for everyone''s death, Aries would''ve lost it a long time ago. But now, she could even consider rxing for a bit because everything was slowly bing clear to her.

    ''Abel... that mad man... I will not die in his hands. I just had to do it correctly.'' She nodded inside her head, determined to do a job well done.

    *********

    "Sir Conan, can I ask a question that is out of topic?"

    Conan''s brows rose, gazing at Aries across from him. This was the first time she raised a question that wasn''t about their lesson, so it was surprising.

    "Well, of course. I said it in passing, but you can always ask me anything." He rocked his head, propping his arm against the edge of the table. "Mydy, if you have questions, I am the best person you can ask. I will try my best to answer it."

    Aries studied the subtle smile that resurfaced in his countenance. "Are the maids serving me previously dead?"<sub> </sub>

    "Huh?" Conan blinked twice, a bit surprised as this wasn''t what he expected from her. "Well... they were the ones who helped you that day. Thus, they should''ve known you are not feeling well and informed me. But they didn''t say a word and in the end, you passed out during your literature sses."

    ''So they were punished because of that simple reason?'' Aries lowered her head.

    "Mydy, it''s not your fault. Don''t feel bad." Conan sported a kind smile but was short-lived when Aries raised her head.

    "Who said I feel bad for them?" she asked, tilting her head to the side. "So, were they dead or were reassigned to work somewhere else in the pce?"

    Conan scrutinized her eyes before he nodded. "They were hanged."

    "I see." Aries went silent after that. She actually expected that much when she saw the servant''s reaction when she asked the question. The only reason she asked Conan was for confirmation.

    It was also true that she didn''t feel bad for the servants. Why would she? Aries had her own problems to worry about, and she was treading on eggshells herself. She doesn''t have the spare energy to feel bad for others. Everyone in this pce had their own roles to fulfill; dying while performing that role was no one''s fault but themselves.

    After a minute of silence, she once again raised her eyes. "Sir Conan, that night... His Majesty suddenly barged into my room with a sword in his hand. May I know the reason?" she queried while fidgeting with her fingers.

    "It''s just... I want to know the reason and if I made a mistake so I can avoid it in the future," she added, still unaware of what or what to not ask.

    "Uh, that..." Conan let out a dryugh, raising his brows briefly. "No reason."

    "Pardon?"

    "Mydy, if you don''t know yet, His Majesty is someone who had a lot of things in mind. Sometimes, he will get angry on his own," he exined, making her expression die.

    ''He was basically saying His Majesty is crazy, right?'' she bit her tongue to stop herself from expressing her thoughts.

    Conan sported an awkward grin. "You see, mydy, His Majesty has quite a reputation for women. I don''t know if this will help you in a way, but His Majesty changed women frequently. The longest time he was with the same woman was around two weeks, and that was a long time ago."

    "Oh..." Aries processed his words, tranting them in a more blunt way since he was purposely making it sound less scary.

    "In a way, you''re the longest one who stayed beside him. I mean, I know he had been busy when he took you in and met you only a few times and in short times. But you''re breaking records." Conan pointed out, unsure whether this was apliment for her. "If you don''t know yet, you''ve also garnered a few people''s attention by now."

    Conan paused, studying her before a shallow breath slipped past his lips. "Mydy, I know you''re smart. But the pce isn''t a safe ce for everyone. His Majesty had to face assassins every single day, so you might always see him with blood on him." This time, a helpless smile appeared on his face, making her raise her brows.

    "If you want to live long enough in this ce, I''m certain you know the perfect person to cling on to," he continued while staring into her pair of emerald orbs. "And if there''s one person you can trust in here, that is His Majesty. He will never betray you, just don''t betray him."

 Chapter 19 Potato Diet

    ''So that is the reason everyone is distant to me, huh? Everyone thinks my days are numbered. Having some attachment to me is not necessary.''

    Aries let out a sigh, taking a walk in the inner garden after her lesson with Conan. Since she was told to take it slowly, Aries only had to take lessons one at a time. So, after Conan, she had nothing else to do. Thus, he suggested that she''d take a walk in the garden and enjoy a cup of tea alone.

    Holding her hand behind her, she stopped. Aries looked around the vast garden, smiling subtly at the refreshing sight of it.

    "How beautiful," she whispered, closing her eyes while taking a deep breath. When she opened her eyes, the side of her lips stretch as she continued her walk.

    There were many things in Haimirich she could do, unlike when she was in Maganti. Just like taking a walk in a garden. Not that they forbid her in the said empire, but Aries didn''t have the energy to live normally. She didn''t even consider that, especially knowing that the people who mercilessly murdered her family surrounded her.

    ''If there is someone I can trust in this ce, that''s His Majesty, huh?'' she repeated Conan''s words, treading carefully towards the pavilion Conan told her to go. ''How ironic, but he had a point.''

    Although it was a surprise that Abel faced assassins every single day, Aries didn''t doubt that. For a tyrant like Abel, it would be more odd if there was no opposition. Even Aries''s father, who was kind, had to face opposition because that was how politics works. She was well-versed in that matter since the children of the king of Rikhill all studied to be schrs.

    In Rikhill, it didn''t matter if they were princesses or princes. Thete king of Rikhill believed that the veritable treasure he could leave behind once his timee to his children was neither wealth nor title; it was knowledge.

    "Now that I think about it, His Majesty is crazy, but not that crazy," she mumbled, gazing at the gravel path while walking. "He surprisingly keeps his words. Also, he hadn''t touched me, nor did he force himself into me. Although he seems to use it to make me obey."

    She nodded, reviewing Abel''s personality and his actions towards her so far. Although he tried to kill her for a reason, only Abel knew, what was important to her was the oue. And that was she was still breathing and could take a walk in a garden full of flowers.

    ''Also, ourst conversation somehow felt... normal.'' Aries stopped as she raised her head, catching Dexter''s figure from a distance. She didn''t try to catch his attention because thetter slowly turned his head in her direction upon sensing another presence.

    "Greetings, Marquess Vandran." She performed a small curtsy while her tutor in literature tilted his head down.

    "How have you been, mydy?" Dexter inquired while sizing her up.

    "I''ve been better after a few days of rest." She smiled, watching him approach and stop two meters away. "Are you also here to adore the flowers?"

    "The flowers in the pce can only be seen in this ce, so yes." He looked around at the variety of flowers in the vast garden. "It was quite a sight to behold to see rare flowers in one ce."<sub> </sub>

    "Oh? Is that so?" As a habit, Aries didn''t raise a question. There was no need. She already got a grasp of what he was saying. Considering Abel''s personality, if he im a flower was his, no one else could grow that type of flower in their estate. What a character.

    A subtle smile dominated her face. "Then, I won''t take up too much of your time, My Lord. I hope you enjoy your walk." Aries beckoned a neck bow to continue to her walk alone. Although Dexter was someone she thought was a kind person, Abel had his eyes everywhere.

    He might not see her personally, but Aries didn''t want to cause Dexter trouble if a misunderstanding arose. It was better if she talked to him during their lesson since she had a reason to talk to him.

    While Aries walked away, Dexter''s eyes remained on her meek back. He didn''t have any change of expression, even though she drew a clear line. Not that it displeased him. If anything, he was even more intrigued.

    Dexter slowly raised his gaze to one of the windows, immediately catching Abel staring back at him. ''Did she know he was watching? I would''ve taunted him if she didn''t leave immediately.'' A shallow breath slipped past his lips, peeling his eyes away from the figure standing in front of the window and walking away.

    Meanwhile, the side of Abel''s lips curled up into a smirk, eyes on Dexter''s figure. He was holding his hand behind him, clicking his tongue continuously.

    "Conan, since when did the Marquess like gardens?" he inquired amusingly, ncing over his shoulder. Thetter stood in front of his desk, cing some documents on top of it.

    "Marquess Vandran? Well, he had a greenhouse full of poisonous nts. So, I can assume he enjoys gardening as a hobby. Although he rarely goes to the garden of the inner pce. You already know that, Your Majesty."

    Abel chuckled. "That''s interesting, isn''t it? It seems Dexter wants to y with me for a while."

    Conan frowned upon hearing the amusement in Abel''s tone. He had been serving Abel for a very long time, so he knew this tone. Well, he was also aware of theplicated friendship or rivalry between Abel and Dexter.

    "Your Majesty, entertaining Marquess Vandran isn''t something you should concern yourself with. Since we will hold the council gathering in the empire, shouldn''t you make preparations? Isaiah is worried about yourck of interest in their presence in the empire."

    "I wonder what he''ll do if I tell him I''m going to marry her," Abel mumbled, ignoring Conan''s words. When he turned around, his grin stretched even wider until his eyes squinted.

    "You want me to concern myself about those old folks? Very well, Conan, uproot the flowers in the garden and nt potatoes instead. We are going on a potato diet and we will serve different types of potato dishes at the council meeting."

    Conan''s expression died. "Your Majesty, did I, perhaps, say something that is punishable by death?"

 Chapter 20 Found Another Hobby

    The next day...

    "Marquess Vandran. Did you also think I will die?"

    Dexter''s brows raised, fluttering his eyes up at Aries, who was sitting across from him. She just asked him for permission to inquire about an out-of-topic question. But he didn''t think this would be the type of question she would ask.

    "Yes." He nodded after a few seconds. "Until now, I think you will, eventually."

    "All people die... eventually," she muttered, studying his reaction discreetly. "Then... if you think I will die shortly, why did you agree to tutor me?"

    This time, he leaned back and put down the book on the table. "Because you are His Majesty''s pet; that is what he calls you."

    p Dexter studied her reaction after stressing the word ''pet'', but he got nothing. Aries didn''t even show the slightest displeasure about it.</anda>

    "Is that so?" she lowered her eyes. For some reason, Aries had expected this much. Conan already told her that people actually knew about this pet since Abel would gloat about it. It wasn''t something she was proud of since his pet was a human being. But she couldn''t expect anything less from Abel''s madness.

    "You looked a little... disappointed." he pointed out, waiting for her to raise her gaze. "But I don''t think it is because His Majesty sees you as a pet."

    "Why would I get disappointed if His Majesty sees me as a pet?" she smiled, almost chuckling, but took a deep breath instead. "He treats me better than my previous owner."

    He might think she was crazy, Aries thought. But that was the truth. Even though Abel tried to kill her, he didn''t force himself on her or abuse her. At this point in her life, what mattered to her was the result, and she was still alive.

    "Marquess Vandran, are you friends with His Majesty?" she inquired once again.

    "Friends? Mydy, I think you''re smarter than that question."

    A subtle smile appeared on her face. "I just think you have a unique rtionship with His Majesty when Sir Conan mentioned you."

    "No, mydy. I don''t have friends. I am a subject of His Majesty."

    Aries studied his expression discreetly before rocking her head. He was always strict, but somehow, his eyes sharpened when she inquired about his rtionship with Abel. She was correct. Dexter and Abel had a unique rtionship бк not the good kind, though.

    "My lord," she called once again before she continue reading the poem he told her to read. "Do you still think I will die in here?"

    He quirked a brow. "I think you will never outlive His Majesty."

    ''That''s a strange response,'' she thought, pressing her lips as she simply assumed his words as is.

    "If... never mind." She shook her head, changing her mind from asking further questions. Since Conan would always answer her questions without a filter, Aries thought asking that man was safer.

    Silence enveloped them once again as Aries already shifted her focus on the book of literature. Meanwhile, Dexter would constantly nce at her. He had noticed that after she recovered from her fever, Aries had more confidence.<sub> </sub>

    Back then, she was very uptight. She was even careful while flipping the page of a book. But now, her emerald eyes would gleam when she read something that was in her interest. She even mustered the courage to ask a blunt question he never thought he would hear from her.

    "Mydy, forgive me if I am interrupting your reading. But may I ask how are you feeling?" he inquired, catching her attention as she looked up.

    "Better." She smiled. "I feel a lot better now and surprisingly feel good. I think I am adjusting well in Haimirich thanks to everyone''s help."

    "Adjusting well..." Her brows rose when he chuckled.

    "My lord?"

    Dexter shook his head lightly. "My apologies. I just find it interesting how you recovered from all that fatigue in such a short time. His Majesty must have taken care of you."

    ''Well, if you consider Abel throwing me out of the window in my dreams as taking care of me, he really took care of me,'' she replied in her head while keeping her subtle smile. "His Majesty treats me well. I am grateful for that."

    "I see..." Dexter rocked his head. Of course, he wasn''t a fool to believe her. He knew Aries was clever and everything that woulde out of her mouth was already calcted. His eyes fixed on her, watching her tuck her hair behind her ear while gazing down at the book.

    With eyes soft, she affirmed in a relieved tone. "I won''t die, my lord." She raised her eyes ever so tenderly. "I will live and survive until His Majesty gets tired of me. I hope one day we can also be friends because I think you are not a bad person."

    Dexter studied the bright smile stered on her face. He didn''t respond, though. All he did was stare at her. That... herst remarks sounded sincere бк because she really meant it. Even so, that was strange for him. Not a bad person? If only she knew what sort of people they were, she wouldn''t smile so beautifully and utter such reckless words.

    "Don''t hasten your death by smiling too much," he muttered, picking up the book he put down previously. "Especially in front of others. You''ll be in trouble."

    ''Was he worried about me?'' Her brows rose before the side of her lips stretched broader. "No one is here," she chuckled while shifting her attention to the book. "But thank you for the advice. I will keep that in mind."

    "It''s not advice."

    "Alright." Sheughed and nced at him before silence enveloped them again. As she refocus her attention on the book, a shallow breath slipped past her lips.

    ''I wonder what''s her n for trying to get me on her side.'' He wondered, but he didn''t n to probe since he would rather see it once it happened.

    "By the way, have you heard about the garden?" he queried after several minutes of silence.

    "Pardon?"

    Dexter nced up with the same distant look. "See it for yourself after our ss. They said His Majesty suddenly had an inclination to gardening... or farming."

    "бн"

 Chapter 21 How To Coax The Devil

    Aries''s heart sank while standing in front of the garden. She was clutching her skirt, watching a lot of servants destroy the beautiful garden.

    ''Did that mad man order to destroy the garden just because I spent an afternoon tea in here yesterday?'' she wondered, feeling sorry for the innocent flowers she gazed upon. She couldn''t think of another reason why Abel would order the servants to destroy it if not for that.

    It was just too much of a coincidence. He could''ve destroyed it before, but he didn''t.

    ''Was he dering that I cannot like anything else aside from him?'' she wondered, feeling her heart hammered against her chest. ''Considering his personality... why am I even surprised? I shouldn''t let him stir my emotions like this.''

    After her lesson with Dexter, she headed into the garden to rx for a little. However, he said that would be impossible. He didn''t exin, though, and only told her to ''see for herself.'' Now that she was standing before the garden, she finally understood why Dexter told her it was impossible.

    Everyone was simply plucking every flower, tossing it on the wagons. Aries bit her lips, letting out a deep breath. Since she only needed to attend one ss per day, she had nothing else to do. Theck of activity made her want to rx in a ce she could breathe fresh air. But now... that was being destroyed.

    ''This is why everyone doesn''t want any attachment to temporary things,'' she mumbled, understanding the reason everyone was so distant to her. ''Just like this garden, it can stay beautiful. But one word from Abel, everything will be destroyed. That crazy emperor...''

    A deep sigh slipped past her lips, pivoting on her heel to return to her quarters. It was better to stay in her room and read a book, or maybe finish her homework early. Well, that only meant she would be returning to what she usually does in the past months, being in this ce.

    Just as Aries was heading inside, she stopped seeing Conan panting with his palm on the pir. Her brows wrinkled, watching him raise his head to reveal his paleplexion.

    "Mydy!" her heart suddenly thumped loudly against her chest as soon as their eyes met. "Pleasee with me!"

    *****

    Aries didn''t know why Conan was such in a hurry, but she wasn''t stupid to not consider it as an emergency. All he told her was toe with him and tell her to stop Abel from going nuts. Although that baffled her on so many levels, Aries followed him.

    To her surprise, Conan led her to a certain hallway. Standing several meters from them, her mind went nk. There, from the other end of the long hallway, everyone was silent and in fear while Abel stood, stepping onto a man''s head who was kowtowing before him.

    "How dare you touch me?" Abelughed mockingly, pivoting his foot against the back of the man''s head. "I wonder how many times should I step on your head before I see your brains?"

    ''What was going on?'' she wondered, taking a step back. She didn''t want to get caught up with this бк whatever this was.

    But just as Aries wanted to run away, Conan took a deep breath and called. "Your Majesty!" came out a stern voice, making Abel raise a brow and cocked his head to them.

    Her breath instantly hitched the second Abel''s eyesnded on her. Although he stopped disgracing the nobleman, his foot stayed on the man''s head. Aries flinched when Conan cast her a look, tilting his head to follow him.

    ''Did I offend Sir Conan with my questions? Why would he drag me in here when Abel is wondering how many times he had to step on a man''s head before he can crush it?'' she wept internally but kept her expression in check while following Conan''s tracks.<sub> </sub>

    Aries clutched her cold hands tightly when they stopped at arm''s length. She simply nced up at Abel, but his sharp eyes and intimidating aura forced her to look down.

    "Your Majesty, Lady Aries is looking for you!" Her eyes popped open, gazing at Conan in shock. What did he say?! Didn''t Conan go to her and tell her to follow him?!

    "Ah?" Abel furrowed her brows, ncing at Aries''s momentarily before shifting his eyes back to Conan.

    Thetter cleared his throat while staring into the emperor''s eyes. "She said she has nothing else to do since the garden is not avable. So, she wants to y!"

    "..." at this point, Aries wanted to run through the nearest window and jump to her death. Was she lured here to be a scapegoat? Aries nced at the people behind Abel and noticed their attire. It seemed they didn''te from the empire.

    ''Sir Conan, did you think my death is much more eptable than theirs?!'' that was what Aries wanted to ask, but Abel already spoke.

    "Really?" Abel let out a dryugh, simpering. Her shoulder instantly tensed up while she squashed down the sense of dread crawling up her spine.

    "You want to y with me?"

    Her mouth opened and closed, forcing herself to speak. "Are you busy?" came out a muffled voice, sporting an awkward grin.

    "Busy...?" Abel cocked his head back and nced at the people around him. "A bit. Conan, hand me my sword. I will make this quick so I can y with her."

    "Your Majesty..." Conan cast Aries a helpless look as if asking her for help. But Aries also looked back at him with eyes screaming for help as well.

    In the end, Aries closed her eyes briefly and exhaled. She would surely make Conan pay this debt by keeping her safe and giving her intel about Abel''s mood.

    Aries sported a smile as she steeled her heart to take a step closer. "Your Majesty, shall we have tea together? I will make you one."

    "But darling, this man dared touch me with his filthy hands." Abel frowned with an arched brow. "I can still feel his touch. How infuriating."

    She gulped, taking another step, and reached for his hand. "Did he touch you here?" she asked, causing his brows to furrow. Since he wasn''t responding, she took that as a yes.

    "Then..." Aries guided his hand to her lips and ced a peck on the back of it. She looked up and smiled at him afterward. "Better now?"

 Chapter 22 Good Lord

    "Better now?"

    There was a moment of silence across the hallway. Even Conan looked at her, wide-eyed. He carefully shifted his eyes to Abel and, to his surprise, thetter had this daze look. It was just for a split second, but Conan knew what he saw.

    Abel raised his other hand and waved. "Don''t ever show your face to me unless your king goes to his knees and begs." Eyes still on her. "Now scram before I change my mind."

    As soon as those words left his curled lips, his finger curled around her hand, eyes glinting menacingly. He took a step forward, bending over for a closer look.

    "Now I''m hungry," he dawdled, almost coquettishly. "What tea are you going to brew, darling?"

    "Uh... my favorite...?" She kept her expression in check whilst holding onto her soul from leaving her body. "Shall we?"

    "Very well." His smirk stretched, cocking his head slightly.

    With that being said, Aries held onto his hand and led him to who knows where! She didn''t have tea or any equipment to make one! So Aries cast Conan a knowing look, and thetter nodded, getting her silent message to give her the necessary equipment.

    As the two left with Aries leading Abel while holding his hand, Conan heaved a sigh of relief. He set his eyes on the delegation from another kingdom. Someone even copsed to his knees out of fear and relief. All they could do was stare at Aries''s figure, who saved them from the devil himself.

    ''Sir Conan, you owe me one.'' That was what her eyes told her earlier, and thetter nodded discreetly.

    ''Thank you, Lady Aries.'' Conan heaved a sigh of relief while keeping his gaze on Abel''s back. That was surprising, he thought. Abel would usually gloat about his pet, but to think he would actually listen to Aries. Conan was just hoping that Aries could somehow calm him down or divert Abel''s attention by seducing him.

    Once they took a turn, Conan turned and faced the idiots who thought they could just do and say whatever they wanted in this ce. If not for Aries, the floor they were standing on would have been painted in red.

    He clicked his tongue the more he thought about it. "You heard His Majesty. Unless your king begs on his knees, don''t ever show your face in here. Also, how dare you disrespect Lady Aries in a ce where His Majesty can hear you? If you value your life, learn to hold your tongue and know your ce."

    *****

    Aries hung her head low, clutching her skirt under his gaze. She led Abel to the study where she had a lesson previously since it was the closest. Now, she was simply waiting for the equipment to brew tea. However, even though it had only been three minutes since they sat across from each other, it already felt like thirty hours.

    Meanwhile, Abel was enjoying the sight of her. With his knuckles propped against his jaw, the side of his lips curled up devilishly.

    "Darling." He held hisughter when she flinched at his call. "Didn''t you say you want to y with me? Why aren''t you saying anything?"

    "Uhm..." Aries cautiously nced up at him, catching the amusement on his face. Surely Conan used her as a scapegoat. "About the garden..."<sub> </sub>

    "What about it?" he tilted his head slightly. "Flowers are pleasant in the eye, but they won''t sustain a man. Potatoes are better."

    This time, Aries furrowed her brows and looked up. "Pardon?"

    "I will be nting potatoes since I can''t have others covet my potato." He cast her a knowing look, simpering seeing her reaction. "Aren''t I generous?"

    "..." For a moment, Aries was in a trance. Initially, she thought Abel destroyed the garden to humor her. But... he ordered to uproot the garden to nt potatoes? In the end, was it her fault that those flowers who were minding their own business met their untimely death?

    ''Why is he looking at me as if he did a job well done and deserves praise?'' she wondered, keeping her sanity together since she had underestimated how unpredictable he could be. ''I will go mad before he does at this point.''

    "Darling, don''t be surprised!" He chuckled while shaking his head. "Be grateful that I didn''t think of nting dead bodies instead. Oh... that''s not a bad idea. A cemetery inside the pce for a change. Now that I think about it, corpses are excellent fertilizer. I wonder what kind of face Conan will make if I suggest it."

    ''Good Lord...'' Aries wanted to speak, but every time he opened his mouth, her tongue would rollback. Her eyes veered towards the door. It wasn''t that far, but it felt like its distance was akin to the sky.

    KNOCK KNOCK!

    Just then, a light knock came from outside the door before it opened carefully. The head maid came in while pushing a trolley tray, keeping her head low. She greeted the only sun in the empire and Aries before stating her intention.

    "Mydy, this is the tea that you asked of Sir Conan." The maid announced, seeing Aries nod.

    "Thank you." Aries sported a kind smile. "I''ll take it from here."

    "Yes, mydy." The head maid kept her head low, walking away without making the slightest sound. As she left, Aries heaved a sigh of relief. Fortunately, the tea came right on time so she could distract herself for a second.

    ? "I''ll brew the tea now, Your бк Abel." She corrected when he raised a brow. She didn''t wait for his response, standing from her seat and sauntered towards the trolley tray. Since it had enough space, Aries decided to brew it there before serving it on the table.

    Aries stood with her back facing Abel. So, she couldn''t see that he was staring at her back. No one could exactly tell what he had in mind, but whatever it was, it only spoke trouble.

    He nced at the hand she kissed earlier, narrowing his eyes. When a glint flickered across his them, the side of his lips curled up into a smirk.

    ''She gets smarter day by day and this frail seduction is deadly...'' Abel raised his eyes and set them on her back. ''... but that makes me want to indulge with her.''

 Chapter 23 You Dont Want Your Name In My Head, Aries.

    Abel nted his palms on the armrest. He pushed himself up, marched towards her, and stopped behind her. She instantly froze, feeling his body on her back with his fingertips caressing her sleeve.

    "Darling," he whispered seductively, leaning his face over her shoulder. "You shouldn''t have let Conan use you. Why save him or them when you can barely save yourself?" He smirked, licking her earlobe yfully.

    Her shoulder tensed up, keeping her hand from shaking while pouring the hot water into the teapot. She wasn''t even surprised that Abel knew Conan simply dragged her with him. Abel wasn''t someone who was easily fooled. If he was that easy, Aries would''ve lied many times already. Why did he y along? No one knew. Who could ever know what was inside this man''s head?

    Abel carefully wrapped his arm around her waist, resting his chin on her shoulder. "Don''t I look like a doting husband? Didn''t you say you want to y with me? Why don''t we y house? You''re the wife and I''m the husband. Sounds fun, don''t you think?"

    ''y house... that sounds funny for children but the way he said it... oh, Aries, you are aware of what you signed up for.'' Her mind snorted.

    Aries clenched her teeth secretly while she covered the teapot with the lid. She tried to be calm despite that Abel''s touches felt different this time. It wasn''t like when he held her when they bathe or that night when she fell ill or all those times they were together.

    She cleared her throat, taking a deep breath. "It will take at least five minutes to steep the tea," came out a whisper, lowering her eyes. "Can you finish in five minutes? The tea is not good to drink once it''s cold."

    Abel brushed her hair to the other side, leaning his face until the apex of his nose was touching the side of her bandaged neck. His smirk remained, still hugging her from behind.

    "How daring to give me a time limit." He chuckled, whispering, "do you think I don''t have trained stamina? Stay still."

    As ordered, Aries stayed still while letting him stroke her neck with the tip of his nose. She was prepared. She had prepared herself for this, knowing it was just a matter of time before Abel would take her body. It was not like she treated this body as precious anymore.

    "Ah...!" she winced when Abel suddenly bit her neck, clutching her skirt even tighter. His low chuckle caressed her ear right after, feeling his lips stretch against her skin.

    "How obedient," hemented while his other hand crawled up to her neck, stroking the bandage around it. "This thing is bothersome."

    This time, his cheek squished on her shoulder, eyes on her. His eyes glinted with amusement when Aries held her breath when he tried to squeeze her neck. It was subtle, but it was obvious she was thinking if he would kill her. He could if she asked for it. But that wouldn''t be fun. They were ying house, weren''t they?

    "Darling, will you forgive me if I choked you to death?" he asked mischievously, enjoying how her pupils constricted. "And vite your lifeless body?"

    ''Good, Lord... was this the reason no woman eversted that long to warm his bed? They warm his bed and he would leave them cold?'' Her mind went nk for a second. In the briefest moment, she snapped her eyes upon feeling his hot breaths directly hit her skin as the bandage loosened.<sub> </sub>

    "It''s still there," he crooned, touching the healing wound in her throat with his fingertips. He narrowed his eyes, knowing it was him who caused this to her бк no one else.

    "How unsightly," he snapped his tongue lightly, gazing up at her. Abel didn''t speak after that, staring at her side profile. Since he wasn''t moving or speaking, she cast him a side-eye only to catch him staring.

    ''What?'' she wondered, carefully turning her head to the shoulder where he was resting his head. "Abel?" she called, brows raising at this iprehensible look in his eyes. That look again, she thought. It was neither remorse nor lust. That look in his eyes she would constantly catch before it would fade without a trace often left her wondering how could a person have such empty eyes.

    "What do you see?" he asked while locking eyes with her.

    "You."

    "Me?"

    Knowing she needed more words to exin herself, Aries let out a shallow breath. "A handsome man. It''s unbelievable that a person can be this gorgeous." бк that was the truth. His personality aside, Abel was akin to the epitome of seduction. He could seduce a person even just by standing.

    "Heh... thirty seconds before my five minutes is up. Stay still unless you want to drink cold tea." Abel lifted his head from her shoulder, iming her lips for the second time since taking her in.

    As soon as his lips touched hers, her breath hitched while her eyes nearly popped out of their socket. And yet, she didn''t move, even when his tongue slipped in between her lips. Instead, she slowly closed her eyes. But just as her lips slightly moved, Abel whispered into her mouth.

    "I said, stay still." His eyes, which were partially opened, glinted. "Don''t... respond."

    Aries didn''t open her eyes but stayed still, letting him bite her lower lip lightly. This was definitely not her first to taste a man. What surprised her was that his lips that had this faint taste of wine didn''t disgust her. But the entire irony of this was, Aries wasn''t counting in her head while Abel did.

    "Thirty," he whispered, drawing his head back and watching her eyshes flutter open. He waited until she blinked twice, holding her breath before her gaze fell on him.

    "You shouldn''t have let Conan use you or performed that stunt," he repeated under his breath, sounding dangerous and seductive at the same time. "You don''t want your name inside my head... Aries. Make sure Conan will pay what he owes you."

 Chapter 24 How Rude

    Aries indulged with Abel for the remainder of the day before she resigned to bed. Fortunately, he had other matters to attend to. So, parting with him felt like she was able to finally breathe. To summarize her tea time with Abel, she had no words for it.

    If anything, it was just... unpredictable. Their conversation was random бк too random that she would sometimes just look at him, wondering what he was eating to have such a chaotic train of thoughts.

    Aries let out a deep exhale, slipping under the sheet. "In any case, I somehow loosened up earlier," came out a mumble while lying down, setting her eyes on the ceiling. "In conclusion, Abel sometimes enjoys being treated like a child."

    Not the childish way. But rather, being treated with enough attention, care, affection, and so on. The emotions that a child needed. The only difference was, she still had to tread on thin ice around him. After talking to him for a long time, one thing came clear to her.

    Abel was a dangerous devil incarnate. He would keep pressing someone''s nerves purposely to see how they would react. He kept doing it to her and enjoyed it when she tried her best to smile in return.

    "I feel extra tired today," she muttered as another sigh slipped past her lips. "I hope he enjoys his time with his women."

    Aries closed her eyes, unbothered by the order she heard Abel give to Conan earlier today. That was to invite women to his bed tonight. Yes. Abel shamelessly ordered that right in front of her, and she didn''t even flinch.

    ? ''I hope they exhaust him until he can no longer stand up the next day,'' she wished бк almost prayed for it. But then she cracked her eyes open while pressing her lips into a thin line. For some reason, the texture of his lips still lingered in her mouth with that faint bitter taste of wine and tobo.

    It was a taste she wasn''t particrly fond of, but she surprisingly didn''t really dislike it. Was it because he was Abel and not the crown prince of Maganti? So she didn''t feel an instant disgust to the point she felt like puking?

    ''It actually felt nice,'' she thought, biting her tongue. ''How ironic. His kiss felt so gentle even when he bites, unlike his personality.''

    She pondered about it for several seconds before she shook her head aggressively. She shouldn''t think about that, she thought. She should just conserve her energy and rest. Who knew what sort of trouble Abel would cause tomorrow? Aries needed more rest and energy, just in case.

    ''I really shouldn''t think about Abel that much.'' That was herst thought, throwing all thoughts about the said man at the back of her head. That man was like mosquitoes, sucking all her energy and forcing her to use every bit of her brain cells just to keep her head attached to her shoulders.

    ******

    Meanwhile, in the emperor''s chambers...

    "Your Majesty..." a woman leaned to his side seductively, whispering in his ears. Abel nced at her, circling his finger around her chocte hair. She caressed his chest, blushing since she was getting his attention more than the other two who were clinging to him. One perched on his other side, while the other one was on the floor, head on his thigh.

    He kept quiet while staring at the hair around his finger. "Ugly," he said after his long silence, making the stunning woman in a nightdress raise her brows.

    "Your hair is not green," he exined, releasing the hair around his finger. "This is more boring than I thought. Scram."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty?" the woman blinked twice, looking at him in puzzlement. Not just her, but the other two women who were called to warm his bed. Did this man, who was infamous for his debauchery more than his ruthless ways, tell them to scram?

    "I hate repeating myself." Abel cocked his head back, staring at the ceiling with nk eyes. "Isaiah, escort them out before I think of another game that I will enjoy more."

    His voice wasn''t loud, but the door creaked open. There, the Grand Duke of Fleure, and also the emperor''s sword, stood by the door. His eyes glossed over the woman fawning around Abel бк a sight he was already used to бк and simply gestured them to go out.

    "Please take your things and leave," said Isaiah in a crisp voice. "Now."

    The women cast Abel a look, but he didn''t even bother ncing at them. Hence, with a reluctant heart, they picked up their robe and marched towards the door. Isaiah stepped aside, ordering the knights guarding the door to escort thedies out.

    When they left, Isaiah stayed in his spot, eyes on the emperor. This was new. Abel never let women leave his room spotless. Actually, he heard about what happened earlier today from Conan. He didn''t believe it, but it seemed there was something changing in this ce.

    "Isaiah," Abel called, still had his head cocked back and eyes on the ceiling. "Do you know what is on my mind right now?"

    Isaiah''s eyes fluttered ever so slowly. "Your Majesty, you know you''re the only one who I cannot read."

    "Aries." Abel dawdled. "Aries... Aries... Aries... I can even see the letters of her name in my head. A.R.I.E.S. Aries. Nothing else."

    "Your Majesty, shall I summon your pet to calm you down?"

    "And potato. I think about Aries and potatoes," he continued,pletely ignoring his vassal. "I told her she wouldn''t want her name in my head... albeit, it was toote. My poor potato."

    His eyes narrowed, arms spread across the backrest of the settee. Aries was in danger. The voices in his head kept whispering her name like a broken record. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. When he opened them, a glint flickered across his empty eyes.

    Abel cocked his head to set his eyes on Isaiah. "My dear vassal, do you think she''s sleeping?"

    "It''s alreadyte. I was certain she was already fast asleep."

    "Huh... that''s not fair." He let out a dryugh before dragging his body to stand up. "If she keeps me awake, she should also stay up. How rude."

 Chapter 25 Choose A Better Nightmare

    Abel stood on the side of the bed. He had been standing in the same spot for some time now, staring at her lying on the bed. He tilted his head slightly when she turned her head, facing his direction. His eyes glinted menacingly.

    "Darling, why do you always sleep in my presence?" he asked, but the response he received was her deep breaths. He lifted his chin up, a little irked for some reason. "After bothering me so much... you sleep peacefully as if you did nothing wrong."

    Slowly and carefully, he reached his hand to her neck. He should kill her so she could stop appearing in his head when he was alone. Out of sight, out of mind.

    But just as his fingertips were an inch away from her neck, Aries hummed. He stopped, watching the space between her brows furrow.

    "No... not them... stop..."

    There she goes again, he thought. She was having a nightmare again, and yet, she kept sleeping! Aries should just wake up to him instead ofing back to those nightmares.

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips, withdrawing his hand away from her. Instead of suffocating her to death, Abel slipped under the sheet and carefullyid beside her. With his hand propped against his temple, he stared at her countenance.

    "I have lost count of how many times I thought of killing you, but didn''t," he whispered, brushing her forehead with his fingertips. "If you im you live for me, then why don''t you dream of me?"

    His brow arched, lips pressed into a thin line. "I''m curious. Let me take a peek at your nightmares, darling." He tapped her forehead slightly, closing his eyes to see what kind of nightmare she had every night.

    As soon as he did, Abel opened his eyes, only to see an execution tform. He turned to his left, seeing Aries gaze at the people tainting the scaffold deep red, wide-eyed.

    "ric..." she whispered while he shifted his eyes back at the execution tform. There, a little girl, around thirteen, had this dazed look in her eyes. The little girl, ric, was obviously traumatized in the face of death.

    "No... not her..." Aries''s lips quivered as she sprang up to the railings where she was watching with the crown prince of Maganti. ric gazed up, locking eyes with Aries before someone put a sack on her head.

    "No!" Aries hollered as she watched her little sister get dragged to the step up. The executioner aggressively put the noose around her neck while Aries yelled and begged, ''not her!''

    But s... no one answered her plea. Because in the next second, ric struggled to live before her feet stopped kicking the air and she was... gone. Just like that.

    "No..." Aries staggered, but tears didn''t roll down her cheek as she slumped to her knees. Abel arched a brow, watching the man squat down in front of her from the settee leisurely.

    The crown prince had this vicious smirk stered on his face, staring at Aries, who looked back at him nkly. He spoke, but Abel didn''t listen to his voice because his attention was on her. From a nk expression, her pupils soon constricted until it pooled with contempt and hatred that was deep to the bone.<sub> </sub>

    The side of her lips curled up,ughing mockingly. "You... is this the best you can do? You''ve been doing this for days now. Aren''t you quite boring? Hah..."

    ? "Boring...?" the crown princeughed. "My Aries, you''re just a bird with broken wings and yet, you still don''t acknowledge that?"

    "Uh... what now? You''ll drag me with you and vite me as much as you please?" Her pain slowly took shape into hatred, numbing her that refrained her from crying. "How predictable. And yet, you wonder why I didn''t fancy a boring man like you?"

    Abel didn''t have a change of expression, even though Aries acted differently than the current Aries. She was fierce, not afraid of what woulde after. He didn''t know if fierce was even the correct term, because it could also mean stupidity. But by the looks of it, Aries would rather challenge that man, even if it meant death.

    He then averted his eyes when the crown prince pulled her up, pushing her at the railings while lifting her skirt. Here in the open... that man disgraced her while Abel was forced to listen to her muffled retaliation.

    "You see, my darling, this is the reason I dislike humans," he spoke calmly as if he wasn''t just an intruder inside this nightmare of a memory. His eyes remained on the tform where the execution continued without dy. "Humans are weak and yet capable of being so vicious. They are ambitious and greedy. In the face of something they don''t know or unsure, they would rather sumb to their primal instincts than understand."

    His eyes narrowed, recalling a distant memory of the past. He could rte to her after seeing a glimpse of her life, but he couldn''t sympathize. This already happened and he couldn''t reverse the time. If only he could, he would''ve marched to this ce and used this crown prince''s head to decorate the gates of Rikhill.

    "How unsightlyбн"

    Finally, Abel shifted his eyes on Aries, and the crown prince before he blinked. Once he did, he slowly opened his eyes, and he was back to the currentpse. He gazed down and saw her still wincing, clutching the sheet tightly.

    "Just wake up to me," he muttered, eyes glinting. Abel then bent over, tilting his head to bite her shoulder as hard as he could.

    GASP!

    "Ah!" Aries gasped for air, but then winced at the sudden pain on her shoulder. She couldn''t dwell on the pain longer because her eyes dted, seeing Abel draw his head back. Her breath hitched the second her emerald orbs met his deep red eyes.

    "Stop going back to him," he uttered under his breath, sending a chill down her spine. "Be wise like you always do and choose a better nightmare."

    Her already dted eyes widened even more as her entire body froze when he bent over to im her lips. "I am a better nightmare, Aries," he whispered into her mouth, moving carefully until he was on top of her.

 Chapter 26 Kiss Her... No, Kill Her.

    For someone who just woke up in the middle of the night, Aries''s mind was still distraught. She only grasped what was happening when he bit her lip, eyes zooming in and out. The familiar taste of wine and faint tobo lingered in her mouth, along with the entry of his tongue in between her lips.

    ''No.'' Her mind reacted on instinct, biting his lips until the taste of iron filled her mouth. She clutched his shoulder, all acting on instinct.

    With her teeth keeping his lower lip, Abel stopped, eyes brooding. He carefully drew his head back, letting his lips stretch as she was still biting it. When Aries caught a glimpse of him, her mouth fell open as her eyes popped wider.

    ''Abel!'' her heart instantly drummed against her chest. ''What did I just do?''

    For a moment, she thought he was someone else. Someone... whom she despised the most in this world. She mistook Abel for that damn crown prince during her confused state. What should she do? She bit him until he bled. And right now, with Abel on top of her, Aries could only hold her breath.

    All she could think of was he would strangle her for her audacity. Why? Because... Abel was her ''owner.'' No matter what she would do, that was an unchanging fact.

    Abel slowly tilted his head to the side, licking the blood off his lower lip. He carefully wiped the blood on her lips with his thumb.

    "I will only let this one slide, Aries," came out a dark, brooding voice, eyes on her. "Don''t mistake me for another man again."

    Her lower lip quiver. "Your Ma бк Majesty, what are you doing here?" she asked in great difficulty.

    Wasn''t he supposed to be spending the night with his whores? What was he doing in her room? Did they finish early? Aries had high hopes that if Abel released his heat to others, he wouldn''t touch her. She could coax him and y with him through the day, but... although she was already prepared for it, she preferred not to be touched. Especially without her consent.

    "Waking you up from your nightmare?" he shrugged indifferently, inserting half of his thumb in between her teeth. "Am I not allowed to visit my little darling?"

    She shook her head on instinct. "That''s not it..." she talked with her mouth ajar, trying hard not to bite him. "Just... I was a bit surprised. I thought you''d be busy tonight."

    "I thought so too." Abel bent over until his face was a palm length away from her. "s, they are not as lovely as Aries and definitely not as fun as you."

    ''Those useless...!'' Aries heard her heart sink, containing herself. Those who they called to Abel''s bed only had one job! Just one! Keep him busy and entertained! But they couldn''t fulfill their job and now here he was! Making her wonder if she could see the sunrise.

    Abel stood on his knees, gazing down at her. "Darling, don''t you want to see me?" he asked, batting his eyes ever so tenderly. His tone remained the same, but she could feel the chill hidden in his voice.

    Despite the slight difort of his thumb in between her teeth, Aries mustered the courage to salvage herself. She already prepared herself multiple times. She was lucky that shested this long without surrendering her body. But all things had their end.<sub> </sub>

    "Well, of course, I am d to see you." Her eyes softened, barely concealing the bitterness in her iris. The side of her lips curled up wearily, reaching her arms toward him to wee him into her embrace.

    "Thank you for waking me up from my nightmare, Abel."

    He narrowed his eyes before he crawled on top of her. Abel was aware this was her tactic, but he pretended not to notice. He brushed his nose against hers, mouth falling open.

    He should kiss her... no, kill her, he thought. Abel was starting to overlook the obvious. That was dangerous. If she lived tonight, he would never find the will to kill her again. Her name would be like an ink forever carved in his head. He should erase it while it was still written in a pencil.

    "Why do you live?" he asked under his breath, resting his forehead against. "If reality is a nightmare and dreams are not any less awful... why do you wake up?"

    His words were instantly tranted as ''shall I kill you? And help you find peace?'' in her head. Aries inhaled his breath, closing her eyes while she calmed her racing heart.

    "Because... the sun rises without condition," came out a soft response. "But now, I live for you, don''t I?"

    "You... live for me?" A dry, briefugh escaped his mouth while his fingers carefully caressed her delicate neck. "Liar... but keep lying until it bes your reality, Aries." A glint flickered across his eyes, burying his face in her neck as his weight nketed over her.

    "I am the nightmare who can heal your broken wings or sever thempletely." His voice was muffled, but she heard him loud and clear. "My mercy is rare, but you won''t like me going mad. You''d wish you should''ve died tonight."

    "You shouldn''t have said what you have said," he added, closing his eyes while she stared at the ceiling.

    His remarks, especially hisst one, were carved deep in her head. And yet, all she could do was stare at the ceiling bitterly. Deep down, she knew Abel could see through her. Like an open book, he read and enjoyed, predicting what would happen next but still continued to see what happen.

    ? ''Tonight... he calls my name more than usual,'' she whispered in her head, narrowing her eyes. ''It wasn''t just my imagination that time.'' бк that time her name slipped past his lips for the first time.

    That time where she first heard the sound of an invisible chain around her ankle. Now, not only did she hear the chains, but she also heard a light click of a lock and the weight of the invisible iron ball attached to it.

    Aries nced at him, wrapping her arms around him and stroking his hair. "Can a nightmare be a good dream?" she whispered, knowing he was still awake, listening to her breathing.

    "I prefer... this nightmare I chose, than those are forced into me. Good night, Abel. See you tomorrow."

 Chapter 27 Worship You Like A God, But Fuck You Like A Whore.

    Aries didn''t know how and when, but she eventually fell asleepst night. When morning came, she woke up at the same time she usually open her eyes. But the second she opened her eyes, what weed her was a perfectly honed chest.

    She blinked countless times, flinching when an arm pulled her body closer. Aries nted her fist on Abel''s inked chest on instinct, eyes carefully moving up to see him asleep.

    ''Right...st night...'' Aries pursed her lips into a thin line, staring at his shut eyes. She didn''t have a nightmare after he came in, making her sigh in relief. But waking up, she felt oddly calm despite seeing him first thing in the morning.

    ''He is gorgeous, no doubt.'' She thought, studying his face up close. ''They said people looked harmless when asleep, but he looked like someone who shouldn''t be disturbed unless they don''t want to live.''

    Abel''s beauty was undeniably out of this world. It was as if God personally handcrafted him with care. If only he was even the slightest bit of normal. But then again, the lines between normal and not had been blurred.

    "If you stare like that, you''re going to puncture a hole in my face." She flinched when his coarse voice reached her ears. His thick and longshes tenderly fluttered open, immediately catching her gaze. "What do you think?"

    "Pardon?"

    "The sight you will see first thing in the morning. What do you think?"

    Aries needed a moment to think of his inquiry while blinking. "Good...?"

    "Good?"

    "... morning."

    Abel looked at her for a moment before heughed, taking a deep breath while pulling her closer. He leaned his face forward, nting a brief peck on the apex of his nose.

    "My pet never ceases to impress me," he mused, keeping her still as he closed his eyes. "Good morning, darling."

    Aries bit her tongue, congratting herself for dodging the question. If she answered him honestly, she would anger him for sure. Not that she hated the sight of him, but waking up next to him was something she would never get used to.

    On the other hand, if she lied to him... Abel might not point it out. However, she didn''t want to lie to him over and over until he get used to it. The trust she wanted to build with him might not happen at all.

    Her n remained the same after all. Be in a friendlier term with him until he found a recement for her and get his mercy, so he would let her go when the time came. She would y along with him until then.

    Aries thought that was the best course of action. She wasn''t wrong, though. There was just one question she didn''t consider; would there be another Aries in this world to rece her?

    "I can hear the gears in your head turning." She froze, feeling his hand on the back of her head. "Don''t scheme so early in the morning. You better sleep some more."

    "I always start my day during this time."

    "..."

    Aries cautiously looked up after hearing silence as a response. His eyes were closed again and his breathing gradually turned heavy. He looked a bit exhausted, she thought. But Abel slept before her; she was certain because she stayed up for another hourst night.<sub> </sub>

    "I usually start my day earlier than this," he spokezily after a moment, eyes closed, feeling her delicate body in his arms. "But I stayed until you wake up. You''re cruel."

    ''Did I annoy him?'' she wondered, not expecting to hear such a confession. Of course, she knew Abel was a busy man. He was the emperor. ''Fine... let''s stay like this. It''s not like my activities are more important than his.''

    Aries rxed her tensed body, using his arm that was slipped under her as a head cushion. Her eyes fell on the inked mark on his chest. She couldn''t see the entire permanent body art, since what was showing was just a small part of it. She had seen it before when they bathe together. But this was the only time she actually paid attention to it.

    Out of curiosity, Aries raised a finger to touch it. But just as her fingertip was a centimeter away from his skin, she looked up, only to see him staring down.

    The side of his lips curled up into a smirk. "Darling, stop touching me."

    ''I''m not touching you. You''re the one who is trapping me in your arms.'' Aries bit her tongue. She was only using a finger to touch the tattoo on his chest. Why did he have to make it sound like she would grope him?

    "Heh." His smirk grew into a grin, biting his lower lip to stop it from stretching. "Last night..." Abel trailed off when her back stiffened. "... you bit me."

    Her eyes fell on the slight bruise on his lips. It was swelling a little, but it could go unnoticed since people would usually stare into his beguiling eyes.

    "I... Uhm... was a bit surprised. My apologies." She lowered her eyes, taking a peek at him after a few seconds. "Did it hurt?"

    "Pain and pleasure go hand in hand, darling. I was aroused."

    "Then, why...?"

    Abel quirked a brow. "Why?"

    "If you were aroused, why did you stop?" she asked curiously after careful consideration of asking about this. Last night, she was certain Abel wanted to take her бк there was no doubt about it. But he didn''t in the end. So, she was curious; this was also to expand her data about him.

    She studied him as he stared at her in silence. There wasn''t much change in his expression, but she held her breath in anticipation.

    "Do I look desperate to you, darling?" Aries shook her head almost at the same time he inquired. "Then there''s your answer. I don''t like forcing myself on others, although there are a few exceptions. Just stop seducing me. I can worship you like a god, but that doesn''t mean I can''t fuck you like a whore."

    Aries''s mind went nk. She never tried to seduce him; what was he saying?

    She cleared her throat and cautiously wanted to clear this misunderstanding. "I don''t..."

    "Darling, every time you breathe, you''re seducing me."

    "..."

 Chapter 28 Days Of Yore

    "Your Majesty, will you really let me hold my breath until I suffocate to death?"

    Aries looked up, holding her breath for several seconds now. And yet, the culprit of why she was doing that was feigning innocence while pretending to sleep.

    "Darling, it''s not me who told you to hold your breath. Don''t me your death on me," came out an indifferent answer while opening his eyes slowly. "That''s not fair."

    Hearing his shameless reply, she finally breathed out. Who told her that every time she breathed, she was seducing him? Aries was simply proving her point, although it was pointless.

    "Do you hate it?" her brows rose, eyes moving back up at him. "The sheer thought of coption with me. Would you rather suffocate yourself to death just to avoid that?"

    For a second, Aries held her breath. Was she toeing too much on the line? Her eyes scrutinized his expression, reading every slight movement of his eyes.

    "No..." she breathed out, averting her eyes away. "I just don''t want you to misunderstand."

    "What''s there to misunderstand?"

    "That I''m trying to seduce you..." She snuck a look at him briefly to check if death was what she would see. "When I''m not."

    Abel arched a brow, letting out a faint breath. "I''ll indulge with you. So tell me, my Aries, what gave you the impression that I won''t touch you even if your body turns cold after you suffocate to death?"

    "Have you done that before?" She blurted out in horror.

    "Do you think I''m mad?"

    "No, of course not! I''m just..." Aries trailed off when the side of his lips curled into a yful smirk. "Your Majesty."

    "Abel. The next time I correct you again, hah... I''ll smash your skull open and carve my name in your brain and stitch it back."

    ''I hope he is joking...'' Aries coughed lightly, clearing her throat right after. ''He''s not joking.''

    Aries lowered her head, resting her forehead against his chest. Her eyes narrowed, feeling so exhausted just talking to him. It hadn''t been half an hour since she woke up, but she felt drained. She couldn''t even remember all the things they talked about. But what she remembered was this instinct to indulge with him just so he could forget aboutst night.

    ''Why is he soplicated?'' she wondered, having a bit of headache wracking her brains before opening her mouth. Yes. Aries was slowly getting used to responding after considering it hundreds of times in a sh. Be it a silly response, taunting, or even a joke, she had to weigh it to match his mood.

    "Back in Maganti." Aries'' entire body stiffened, eyes dting and pupils constricting the second he mentioned Maganti. "Never mind. It doesn''t matter."

    His hand, which was buried in her hair, casually massaged her scalp with his fingertips. Abel narrowed his eyes until they were partially closed, while feeling her careful breaths against his chest. This was the first time he stayed on the bed this long. He was a person who was always out and about, for he would go mad if he stop doing anything and indulge with the demons in his head.

    But today... he didn''t want to get out of the bed. Aries was fun to tease; although he still had this thought of wanting to have a taste of her. If not for what he had seen in her nightmare, he wouldn''t mind even if she screamed, ''no.''<sub> </sub>

    That was Abel. A man who would get whatever he desired by means or foul. So why... for a mere nightmare, he was stopping himself? He didn''t know. That was why he was staying longer with her. He wanted to find some answers or clues.

    He snapped his eyes, taking a peek at her, only to see her eyes closed. "Asleep?"

    She fell asleep. Considering she stayed upte and woke up only to deal with him, she was mentally exhausted. Not to mention, he was massaging her scalp.

    "I don''t know if you''re that confident I won''t kill you during your sleep... or you just don''t care anymore," he whispered, eyes brooding as he pulled her body closer to him. "Either way, I am looking forward to what kind of trick you will perform next. Keep me hooked, Aries."

    Abel rested his chin on top of her head, eyelids falling down until they were partially closed. The smirk, the mischief, the amusement, the anticipation... all was gone and faded into nothing. His eyes slowly grew empty, with only the deafening silence screaming in his ear.

    If not for the faint sound of her breathing, he would''ve snapped. He closed his eyes to rest them for a second because he didn''t sleep a winkst night. But as he focused on her deep breaths, his mind slowly drifted into the days of yore, sinking deeper and deeper. Until...

    Once again, Abel found himself in his bete noire.

    *

    Fires from the torches that lighted up the night waved in front of him, along with the yells of the people rallying around him. The thorns and straws underneath his feet dug into his sole, but the blood that was dripping from it paledpared to the multiple stakes stuck into his body.

    "Kill the devil!"

    "A devil! Kill this spawn of evil!"

    Those were the only words he could make up from the howling chorusing in the air. Abel wiggled his body, but he was tied on the tree securely. And yet, the look on his face was... nk.

    "No," came out a whisper, shaking his head as he tried to see through his blurring vision. "I don''t mean harm. Why... do you hate me?"

    The only answer he got was the recurring plea for his execution. Why did these people were publicly executing him? Wasn''t he... their family, just as they imed? Just as Abel blinked, a figure stood in front of him with a torch in his hand.

    "You..." His eyes dted as Abel recognized this person. He was his friend бк a close friend whom he trusted and helped cheat death. But his heart sank when this friend of his, which he treated as a brother бк just like everybody else бк looked at him in disgust.

    "Monster." the man scorned through his gritted teeth.

    That was all he heardst before everything sounded distant. All he could do was watch this person unhesitatingly guide the torch to the woods underneath Abel while the people behind him cheered him on.

    "Why..." A tear rolled down his cheek as the fire slowly spread around him. "... I just want to be friends..."

    The body that was littered with bruises didn''t hurt, just as intense as the pain of betrayal. As the fire slowly devour him, Abel denied, denied, and denied, that they wanted him dead. But the disgust in their eyes grew clearer the harder he denied the truth.

 Chapter 29 I Just Want To Be Friends

    "Abel..."

    Abel snapped his eyes open, acting on instinct at the hand that was approaching him. In a dazed state, Abel grabbed Aries wrist, pouncing on her until he was pinning her down. His other hand wrapped around her neck, while the other pinning her wrist to her side.

    All he could see was red; just like the zing fire that didn''t kill me, resulting in continuous tortures just to kill a monster like him.

    "Ah... bel..." Aries winced, breathless at the tightening grip around her neck. He would kill her. She stared into his eyes, seeing how nk they were, as if he couldn''t see her.

    Using her remaining strength, she called. "It''s me..." raising her free hand to cup his cheek. "... Abel."

    His dim eyes slowly grew clearer, dting as soon as he saw her writhing underneath him. On instinct, Abel withdrew his hand as if he was scalded. As soon as he let her go, Aries coughed loudly while groping her neck, catching up to her breathing.

    While she gasped for air, Abel stood on his knees in a daze. The memories that kept haunting him felt vivid. He nearly killed her unconsciously.

    "Darling," he called with nk eyes, his hand reaching to her, but stopped midway. His gaze veered to the red marks his grip left around her wrist and neck.

    Aries huffed, gazing at his hesitant countenance. What he did during his unconscious state surprised her бк not because he tried to kill her again. It was because he looked like he was in even more pain than her. She didn''t sympathize, she couldn''t. But her survival instinct told her it was rather an opening.

    "You''re back?" she queried, holding his hand that nearly killed her just now. "It''s a terrible nightmare, but it''s fine now."

    He didn''t answer, gazing at her soft eyes full of worry. If he hadn''t seen it all, Abel would believe she was genuinely concerned. But... he could see right through her. That faint contempt in her eyes and the ulterior motive hiding behind the worry that she was showing... he caught it all.

    And yet, he shunned it.

    Abel let out a deep exhale, crawling on top of her until his face was buried in her neck. His arms squeezed their way under her back, pushing down the mattress for his arms to have some space.

    "It''s fine now," she whispered, wrapping her limbs around him while stroking his hair. "You''re back."

    This felt familiar, he thought. The only difference was that the situation was reversed. This time, she woke him up just so he would wake up to a reckoning, her. Still, he felt her delicate body inhaling through her skin while she casually stroke his hair.

    In a position where they held each other as if there was no tomorrow, their eyes were rather empty. She cast him a side-eye coldly, while he kept his eyes open to show the glint flickering across his eyes. A look of two different species to their... prey.

    ******

    After he woke up from a terrible nightmare from the past, Abel didn''t stay idle with her on the bed. He proceeded to his usual routine, while she did as well.<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty, did you have a bad sleep?" Isaiah, the emperor''s sword, gazed at the emperor sitting behind his desk. Abel was leaning leisurely, looking up at the ceiling in silence. He had been oddly silent ever since he came to work this morning, very unlike Abel.

    Usually, whenever Abel wakes up on the wrong side of the bed, he wouldn''t just stay silent. Abel would take it out. Otherwise, there would be unnecessary killings.

    "Isaiah, how long have you been serving me?" Abel inquired after another minute of silence.

    "Longer than those footsteps have long vanished."

    "That long, huh?" he jeered, eyshes fluttering ever so tenderly as he tried to reach something in the air. "That means you know me... and how I was purged."

    Isaiah warily studied Abel''s demeanor. He had long forgotten since thest time Abel mentioned something in his past. For him to mention it again after so long... Isaiah was vignt. There was never a good oue whenever Abel revisited the past.

    "How pathetic," came out a ridiculing whisper, eyes narrowing. "I just want to be friends... that is what I kept telling them, Isaiah. When they burned me alive, stoned me to death, stabbed me to bleed, hanged me... I only want an answer to this very simple question: what did I do so wrong?"

    "Do you know what answer they gave me?" he continued in the samezy tone. "Nothing. The only thing that gets clearer with every attempt to kill me is that they... looked more terrified than thest time they killed me. A thousand deaths and a thousand resurrection and each time... the desperation and determination to end me grew stronger."

    "Humans are foolish. They are blind."

    "And yet... I desperately want them to see. I am the one who was foolish, Isaiah." Abel took a deep breath as he slowly closed his eyes to rest. "Perhaps, the one who was blind as well. Ah... that''s not right. I am a genius and see everything clearer than anyone now. Though, if only I wasn''t, I would fall for that woman, Aries''s tricks. Like a moth to a me."

    "Shall I end her for you?"

    "She is not easy, my dearest Isaiah." His eyes slowly opened, revealing no human emotions in them. "Not being easy means more fun, though. I''ll dance to her tune for now."

    "You never dance to anyone else''s tune."

    "For a change." Abel slowly peeled his eyes from the ceiling, setting it on Isaiah''s distant visage. This time, his expression was nonchntly yful with his lips curled up in amusement. "You can assume this is for my research purpose. I wanted to know the difference between a good potato from a bad one. Can I swallow a good potato? Or spit it out just like the bad one? I''m curious."

    Isaiah let out a shallow breath as he tilted his head down. "What shall I do to the person carrying poisoned tea to you?"

    "I''m not in the mood to go around with their filthy blood on me. Be the judge. Just do it to a ce where I can''t smell their blood." Abel waved before they heard a knock from outside the office, stating her objective to bring him tea. "Ahh... I think I''m slowly getting fond of the poison they were feeding me. Do it after she served it."

 Chapter 30 Freestyle

    Aries narrowed her eyes, casting a judgemental look at Conan across from her. Thetter cleared his throat, putting his fist before his lips.

    "Mydy, you don''t have to just look at me like that," he muttered as her stares were starting to bother him. It was better if Aries just let it out about what happened yesterday.

    "Sir Conan, did I say something that angered you? How can you send me as a tribute to appease His Majesty?"

    "Hehe... mydy..." Conan sported an awkward smile while Aries frowned.

    "You know His Majesty could deem my action insolence and kill me, right?" Aries pointed out to tug at his little conscience.

    "Mydy, please forgive me. I swear I was certain His Majesty wouldn''t go to that extreme!"

    Aries studied Conan in silence. Conan seemed conflicted himself, but she knew there was some truth in his remarks. He was Abel''s advisor. Thus, he knew Abel more than anyone. That was why Aries wasn''t really angry. She was simply highlighting this fact, so he was clear about what he owed her.

    "How can you be so sure of that, Sir Conan?" she inquired with a frown. "It''s not like my life is as significant as yours in here. I am a pet, remember? If I barked too much, my tongue will be cut."

    "Mydy..." Conan let out a sigh as he gazed at Aries. "Fine. I owe you about yesterday. What do you want from me?"

    "I didn''t say you owe me, Sir Conan. How dare I think like that?"

    "Mydy, I''ve been tutoring you for quite some time now. I know you''re smart. You don''t have to say what you want in a roundabout way since I''m not His Majesty."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. Honestly, Conan had a point. All her interactions with him proved Conan was someone who was rational and clever. He might act a little bit too much and nag Abel without fear of losing his life, but he was more than that. The reason Aries thought that to survive in this ce, she must learn from this man.

    "Sir Conan, even a pet wants to survive." She stressed, letting out a shallow breath, eyes on Conan. "I just want to know how you do it."

    "How I do what?"

    "Survive." She shrugged. "Everyone in the pce tread on thin ice, afraid that if they make the slightest noise, it would cost them their life. But Sir Conan is different. He is free and can talk to His Majestyfortably. What''s the secret?"

    Conan''s brows rose, blinking twice. "I don''t have a secret, mydy. I''m just... freestyling."

    "Free... what?"<sub> </sub>

    "Mydy, do you have any idea how many times I think of the words before theye out of my mouth?" A frown dominated his face, cing a palm across his chest as he sighed dramatically. "I''m also afraid of losing my life in here if I step out of line. I''m aging faster every year. I hadn''t even gotten a chance to get married because he works me to the bone."

    Aries''s under eyes twitched as it seemed Conan was telling her the truth. Of course, she could rte one way or another. But not in her wildest imagination that would be his secret. Freestyle. Watching Conan get immersed in his sorrows as Abel''s advisor slightly made her feel sorry for him.

    "At this rate, I will just grow old alone and lonely." Conan sighed while shaking his head. When he gazed up at her, another sigh slipped past his lips. "Mydy, I already told you that if you want to survive this ce, just don''t betray His Majesty. Even if you die, don''t betray him until the very end. Just don''t."

    ''That''s strange,'' she thought, pressing her lips into a thin line while keeping her silence.

    "But aside from that important part, I can give you another piece of advice." Conan raised a finger. "Don''t follow a pattern."

    "Pattern?" she repeated, and he nodded.

    "I am saying this because you can be a good ally in the future. Just don''t tell His Majesty about this because he might think I am badmouthing him."

    "Sir Conan, do you think I am that kind of person?"

    Conan shook his head almost immediately. "Of course not! That''s why I don''t mind telling you this." He paused to clear his throat, leaning his arm against the round table between them.

    "Mydy, I think you already have a vague idea of His Majesty''s temperament. He is the person who doesn''t care what you can do to benefit him. It doesn''t matter if you are the most beautifuldy in the world, or you are the smartest. Before His Majesty, one''s identity doesn''t matter. If you offend him in any way or form..."

    "It means death." Aries finished his sentence since he trailed off. Conan nodded, as that may sound cruel, but it was the truth. Abel was called a tyrant for a reason.

    "Then, what does count?" she inquired, getting invested in this lesson more than their real topic in history.

    "What interest him!" Conan studied her expression solemnly. "As long as His Majesty is interested in a person or something бк be it in a bad way or good, if good is even the right term for that бк theyst long. Even if you must act like a clown or bark like a dog, for as long as he was interested, do it. If you have a pattern, it''ll easily bore him."

    Aries remained silent. She already guessed this much, but now that Conan voiced it out, she had her confirmation.

    "Mydy, His Majesty is territorial. If he ims that something was his, even if it''s just a pebble, no one can touch it but His Majesty," he continued with the same tone, eyes on Aries. "He can also be paranoid. If you push him too far, he might lock you up where he only knows. If he died, you will as well, since no one will ever know where he kept you. I''m not saying this to rm you, but to give you an idea of what could happen if you push your luck too far."

 Chapter 31 An Alliance

    Aries remained silent as she listened to Conan''s every word. She knew everything he said was truth and nothing but the truth. Not trying to rm her? How ironic, but she couldn''t disagree. Conan was doing her a favor by saying all this to her without a filter.

    "Mydy, aside from that, you''re free." Conan cleared his throat, knowing he was contradicting his ims previously. "Just be yourself and not at the same time. What I mean by that is, His Majesty likes submissive people and not at the same time. He dislikes defiance, but sometimes he found it interesting. In short, if you are too submissive, he will get bored. But if you are too defiant, you will hasten your death."

    Listening to his own words, Conan sported aplicated look. "Mydy, do you now understand my struggles as well? Because I don''t understand myself until now. It''s a miracle how I survived this long without losing a limb."

    ''I pity him in a way,'' she thought, seeing that he was on the verge of tears. ''So this is what he means by freestyle. He nags him when necessary and follows his orders without question when his mind knew he needed to be submissive. A habit he already mastered.''

    "I think I''m getting a gist of it." Aries nodded ever so slowly. "I can be myself and not at the same time. Just stay in between. I salute you for not losing it, Sir Conan."

    "Mydy... finally... someone understands me."

    "I think that''s because we''re on the same boat."

    Conan rocked his head. "That''s right. Since you and I understand each other, we should team up! What do you think, mydy?"

    "Team up...?" she blinked countless times, studying the determination in his eyes.

    "I will tell you everything you need to know to survive and even inform you about His Majesty''s mood. In exchange, just do what you did yesterday and save me!" His eyes gleamed as what happened yesterday gave him a spark of hope. "What do you think, mydy?"

    Aries remained silent as she pondered about his words. His offer was good бк actually, it was the best. She needed someone to monitor Abel and his mood, so she knew how to deal with him beforehand. It was hard and exhausting to be put in a tricky situation on the spot. She was lucky yesterday, but she didn''t know when her luck would run out.

    "Deal." She nodded in agreement, watching Conan extend his arm over the table.

    "Let''s handshake to seal our agreement, mydy."

    She raised her brows, a bit confused, but grasp his hand anyway. Conan grinned as he shook her hand, nodding reassuringly. Seeing his determined expression as if a thorn was plucked out of his throat, the fire beneath her eyes also zed.

    When they let each other''s hand go, the corner of their lips stretched into an evil grin. Both thrilled to gain an ally бк a reliable one бк to resolve their own problem called Abel.

    When they release each other hands, Conan proceeded to brief Aries about their lesson. Not the history of the empire and the powerhouse noble families, but his other lesson.

    [How to appease His Majesty]<sub> </sub>

    Aries was ten times more invested in this lesson. Before they knew it, their time together came to an end. Even so, she learned a thing or two from Conan. Just as expected, he was the best person to stand as her intel.

    "Mydy, I wish for this alliance tost forever." Conan raised a fist as he stood, holding a book in his arm. "If you don''t have anything to do after this, you''re free to roam the castle. Just don''t approach the king''s pce, since it''s dangerous if you''re alone."

    "Thank you very much, Sir Conan." Aries also stood next to her chair to bid him goodbye. They smiled at each other, nodding encouragingly before he left her in the study.

    Once the door closed behind him, Aries let out a deep exhale. She went back to her seat, leaning back as she looked up.

    "In conclusion, he is crazy, no doubt," she muttered and closed her eyes, arms on the armrest. "And to deal with someone like him... being passive is thest of my options. I can be myself and not at the same time, huh? What aplicated person."

    Aries stayed seated for a little while until she opened her eyes. As soon as she did, a glint flickered across her eyes. This was tougher than learning a differentnguage for the first time. But she won''t give up. Not now that she had an ally.

    "I can do it." She nodded in determination, peeling her eyes away from the ceiling. "Let''s give him the best show he will ever see."

    *****

    Meanwhile, in the emperor''s office, Abel gazed at the poisoned tea in his hand. He had already consumed most of it but left an ample amount. He swirled the cup, leaning back against his chair.

    "How potent," hemented, raising the slightly tilted cup to see thest drops of the tea. "If not a drug to make me hallucinate, a poison that will burn my insides. How amazing."

    For someone who just drank poison, Abelughed in amusement. "Although this one is a little bitter. Goodness. They didn''t even try to conceal that it was poisoned." Another dryugh slipped past his lips as he guided the teacup to his lips.

    p But before consuming it, he stopped. His brow slowly arched as an idea shed in his head. Abel carefully withdrew his hand, gazing at the paltry amount in the cup.</anda>

    The side of his lips curled up into a devious smirk. "Should I share a cup with her?" he wondered, and a dark chuckle escaped his mouth. His eyes nced at the documents he had already finished working on whilst enjoying a cup of poisoned tea.

    "Doing this for a long time, ying as an emperor, is getting boring every passing day. Can''t they give me a problem that will keep me busy? At this rate, my Aries will suffer!" he intoned, but thenughed like a maniac and got up from the chair.

    With the cup in his hand and a few documents, Abel marched outside the door to see Aries. The oblivious Aries didn''t have an idea of the new way he thought to kill her.

 Chapter 32 Should I Risk My Life And Strike You On The Cheek?

    "Oh, Aries~"

    Aries jumped as soon as Abel kicked the door open. She slowly raised her pair of cautious eyes to the door, pausing from arranging the books she would take and leave behind the study.

    There, by the door, the devious smirk on Abel dominated his face as soon as he met her eyes. He strutted in, raising the documents in his hand while holding a cup in the other.

    "My darling, I cannot take you out of my head. So I thought we should study together!" he intoned as if it was something to rejoice about, tossing the documents on the table. Instead of plopping down to the seat across from her usual spot, Abel dragged the chair next to it. And then he sat his butt down.

    He looked up at her, eyebrow arching. "What? Are you, perhaps, done with your lesson?"

    ''Do you see Sir Conan or Marquess Vandran?'' she inquired sarcastically in her head but ended up clearing her throat. "Yes. But I have nothing to do. I can finish my homework here."

    "Great!"

    Aries carefully ced the books on top of the table while she perched on the seat next to him. Abel draped an arm across the backrest of her chair. Meanwhile, Aries busied herself in checking the books and notes to finish her homework here with him.

    When she finished arranging the books, leaving one open in front of her, she gazed at her side. Her brows rose, seeing him staring at her in delight.

    "Do you want me to read you a book?" she inquired, applying the lesson she learned from Conan. Actually, Abel saved her the trouble because she already nned to see him. Although Conan told her it was dangerous to wander in the emperor''s pce, it was not like there was a ce in here that didn''t scream danger.

    He narrowed his eyes, smacking his lips. "Whatever Conan told you, believe him." He grinned from ear to ear.

    ''Uh... he likes it.'' Aries mentally jotted down this trait she could use around him.

    "But no, I didn''te for you to read me a book. I''m not illiterate. I told you, I came in here because I can''t get you out of my mind!" he caroled while raising his brows briefly, smirking like a devil who had a n. "But since I don''t want Conan to nag me, I didn''t want to leave my work behind just to y with you. Good thing I can improvise! Now, I get to work and spend time with you. Aren''t I the sweetest?"

    Aries pressed her lips, staring into his pair of malicious eyes. Just what sort of idea did hee up with this time? She wondered, knowing that he wouldn''t be in high spirits for no reason. Instead of answering, she looked away, but not coldly.

    "Heh... it''s so hard to make you blush, darling. All the women I encountered, no matter how much they detest me, will blush if I whisper sweet nothings in their ears." He chortled, cing the almost empty cup of tea on the table.

    "Should I risk my life and strike you on the cheek?" his brows raised when Aries faced him squarely, pointing at her cheekbone.

    "You want to strike me on the cheek? Darling, do you hate me that much you''d risk your life just to p me?"

    Aries pressed her lips, suppressing the giggle that wanted to slip past them. "You said all the women you encountered blush when you whisper sweet nothings in their ear. Then, that means I am the first. I wonder if you will fall for me since I am the first woman to strike you on the cheek." The side of his lips stretched broader, seeing her imitate his sharp eyes and arched brow.<sub> </sub>

    "And then would you say, ''you''re the first woman who did it to me, how interesting.''"

    "Pfft бк!" Abel burst out inughter, holding his stomach while tapping the surface of the table lightly. "Well, my. Why don''t you try? Let''s see if I fall for you or you''d gain a ticket to hell?"

    Aries raised her hands to her shoulder level. "Apparently, I don''t have the courage and I still want to live. My bones will be jelly the second I raise a hand."

    "Oh, darling." Abel pinched her cheek lightly, grinning. "You don''t make me regret moving my work here."

    She puffed her cheeks while letting him pinch her, eyes falling on the almost empty cup. She had noticed this cup earlier. Was he drinking this on his way here?

    "Ah." Abel withdrew his hand as he remembered the teacup. "This is the tea I was enjoying a while ago. Since I kept thinking about you, I thought I should share my tea with you."

    He reached for the teacup and ced it in front of her. His arm propped against the table, upper body facing her.

    "It''s bitter but overall good," he urged, wiggling his brows. Aries gazed down at the almost empty cup before she snuck a nce at him. If this act was from another person, it was rude to let others drink what was called leftovers. But this was Abel. And that only meant being rude was the least of her concern.

    "Come on, try it." He cocked his head, watching Aries pick up the cup of tea.

    She swirled it and nced at it once again. ''Is it poisoned?'' she wondered. ''Even if it is... this amount won''t kill me, right? Unless he actually wants me dead now.''

    "It''s poisoned." She gazed at him when he confessed. "But it won''t kill you... I hope."

    ''My god...'' she sent her prayers that second as she sighed. She knew it. He came here for a reason.

    "When you said I was upying your head, did you mean you were too distracted by thinking how to kill me?" she blurted out and his bright grin was enough for an answer. ''Never mind, Aries. This small amount won''t kill me.''

    Aries let out a faint exhale and unhesitatingly guided the tea to her lips. With closed eyes, she drank the poisoned tea and winced at the strong, bitter taste. She hissed as she put down the cup, facing Abel, who was smiling delicately.

    "How lovely," he raised a hand and his fingertips yed with her hair. "Ah... you make me want to do all sorts of bad things to you."

    "Abel, it''s..." she trailed off as her vision suddenly shook, feeling her body fall to the side. Thankfully, he had his hand raised, holding her head as if he had seen iting.

    Before Aries lose her consciousness, she heard him say, "time for the antidote," and then saw him bite his lip until it bled through her blurring vision. Thest thing she could remember was Abel leaning forward and the taste of iron in her mouth.

 Chapter 33 Standing Her Ground

    When Aries opened her eyes, Abel''s lower face was the first she saw. She carefully closed her eyes once again, breathing out. She could still feel a slight headache. So, she wanted to pretend to be asleep since she wasn''t ready to lose her brain cells talking to him.

    ''He made me drink poison.'' She thought, not even surprised at this point. ''But... he said he drank it. If that paltry amount almost killed me, why was he alive? Whoever made that poison underestimate this lunatic. Weeds never perish.''

    Perhaps it was because Aries knew she could die any moment in this ce for no reason. That was why she felt nothing in particr. Well, she was relieved to wake up despite consuming poisoned tea.

    While Aries was pretending to sleep, Abel quirked a brow and gazed down. The side of his lips curled up, casually stroking her hair. After she lost her consciousness and gave her an antidote, Abel carried her to her chambers. But instead of taking her to the bed, he brought her to the settee.

    He let her sleep with her head on hisp while he read the few documents he brought with him. It had been over seven hours since then. It was a long sleep, but he somehow enjoyed petting her soft hair while working. Actually, he didn''t feel bored at all.

    "You didn''t have a nightmare." He broke the silence in a warm voice as the corner of his eyes squinted. "How was your sleep?"

    Aries let out another deep exhale before she slowly opened her eyes. "I was poisoned. Almost died."

    "I know. It''s me who made you drink it. You don''t have to remind me, darling."

    ''Goodness... Sir Conan, did you have to experience all this as well? Or was this the extreme level?'' she wondered, closing her eyes to avoid seeing Abel''s face. If not for Conan''s advice, Aries would''ve smiled or acted as if she understood him. But no. She didn''t need to follow a pattern and she would rather ''freestyle.''

    Abel frowned, brows wrinkling. "You look upset, darling."

    ''Who wouldn''t?!'' she bit her tongue, holding it in. Showing her displeasure was one thing. But pushing her luck too far was a huge NO.

    "Huh... I''m getting ignored. I made you drink poison but gave you an antidote. You''re alive and had a long sleep without mumbling." Abel cocked his head to the side, sporting genuine wonder across his face. "I don''t understand."

    "Your Majesty, do you want a pet who will amuse you or a puppet you control with strings?" this time, she opened her eyes with almost no emotion in them. "I just need to know which one you prefer, so I can act ordingly."

    "I remember saying what I will do once I need to correct you again."

    "Smash my skull open and carve your name in my brain." Her tone was firm, keeping her eye contact with him fearlessly. "Just do it, Your Majesty. You already made me drink poison. Having my head smash open will be no different since... I will still live, right?"

    She knew she was going a step further down the line. But, just like usual, Aries took a gamble with a higher stake. This would determine her role in his crazy life. When his eyes glinted, she didn''t flinch. Her taunting words would displease Abel, of course. But she expected that much.

    Now... would he strangle her? Snap her neck? Open her skull? Or... would he want to know what made her upset? She didn''t expect an apology, but she wanted to be clear about something.<sub> </sub>

    Abel tilted his head to the side. "You''re really upset. Aww..."

    "Will it please you if I smile even after drinking poison?" she inquired, keeping her eyes on him. "Even a pet has their feelings. You might not see me as no more than an animal, but I won''t keep wagging my tail toward the person who only knows how to abuse me physically, mentally, and emotionally. Death is a lot better."

    Abel narrowed his eyes, studying the resolution in her eyes. He had seen it himself. How Aries defied that man who was defiling her. Even when she was in pain, she never once showed submission. He doesn''t like that, he thought. The fun would end if that happened.

    "Do you want me to apologize?" he inquired, tilting his head to the side.

    "How dare I make you apologize?" Aries secretly sighed in relief as it seemed she won another bet, so she gradually calmed down. "I don''t expect an apology from you, since I know everything you do is just and absolute. I just... just... know I will go insane thinking when will you show up and what sort of torture I will be put into."

    "Hmm. Your point?" he blinked as if that wasn''t clear to him.

    "I might sound rude, but if you can tell me beforehand..." she pressed her lips with raised brows, clutching her skirt. "I don''t want to die, Abel. I want to live; I want to stay here for as long as I can."

    Abel hummed while staring into her eyes. That... he knew she was being honest. His hand that stopped stroking her hair resumed.

    "Are you hungry?" he asked, attempting to change the subject but failed with those eyes looking back at him. His eyes squinted, and he twirled a portion of her hair around his index to his lips.

    "Keep drinking poison every day," he said in a low tone, sharp eyes on her. "If you want to stay with me for as long as you can, then keep drinking poison until you gain immunity. You''re clever. I''m sure you know what kind of position you''re in, darling."

    Aries gulped as her breath hitched. Of course, she knew what he meant by that. Even if Abel wouldn''t kill her, others would if she gained their slightest attention. If someone was audacious enough to poison the emperor, it was foolish of her to think she was safe.

    There was no safe ce in the pce.

    Abel caressed her lean cheek with the back of his fingers. "Don''t die without my permission, Aries. Just stay with me." His eyes narrowed, making her wonder what was in his mind. "Now, are you still upset?"

    Aries took a deep breath. But just as her lips parted, her stomach spoke for her.

    <strong>*GRUMBLE*</strong>

    "..."

 Chapter 34 [Bonus Chapter] I Dont Like It

    Abel didn''t apologize, but Aries took his action of not retaliating or killing her as one. Eating inside her room, she nced up at him, who was eating across from her.

    ''I feel like I won a lottery,'' she thought. Considering she spewed all the things she had always wanted to say and was still alive. ''Sir Conan''s advice was helpful. Although, I wonder if he heard about Abel seeing me earlier today... I guess the news came inte.''

    Noticing her gaze, Abel paused and lifted his eyes up. But the second he did, she already averted her eyes and refocused it on her food. Unlike usual, he didn''t sport a smirk or anything of the sort.

    The skit she pulled off earlier... he would''ve cut her tongue if he was in the slightest bit not in the mood. Or maybe not. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, more annoyed that there were more bad things he wanted to do with her for fun. But she might actually get mad and stop ying with him.

    Abel dropped his cutlery, making her raise her eyes to him. "I lost my appetite," he announced in a dead tone and she just rocked her head, not knowing how to respond to that.

    He leaned back, hands on the armrest, eyes on her. Aries cleared her throat before she awkwardly put down her cutlery. How could she continue eating if the emperor already stopped eating? She reluctantly peeled her eyes away from her food that was barely touched.

    "You can continue eating," he said in a dead tone, but his expression said otherwise. "It''s alright."

    ''Say that when you''re not ring at me!'' Aries screamed internally, getting frustrated by the second. ''Did I really get through him? Since I told him not to hurt me whenever he pleased, would he starve me to death?''

    At this point, Aries just wanted to weep in the corner. Her heart was telling her to just give up and be a marite. As if that was the best option.

    "It''s alright," came out a meek response. Since his expression was in contrast to his words, she did the same.

    "You''re still angry." He pointed out.

    "I''m not angry."

    "You are."

    Ariesughed weakly. "No, Abel. I бк I am not angry."

    "You look like you are about tosh out at me." He argued stubbornly.

    Aries scratched her temple, keeping her expression in check. She wasn''t angry! But since he kept on insisting, she was getting angry. Goodness gracious, she thought. If not poison, he''d starve her to death or stress her out until she wither away? Was that the new n?

    This was giving her a headache. It was better if he was threatening her instead of dealing with a grown-up child. He was just starting a drama out of nothing! Was this also his talent?

    "That''s strange." Abel rubbed his chin, eyes narrowing while pondering deeply. "Why are you so angry you''re ignoring me? I can understand if others do it since the least they want is my attention. You''re not others."

    She bit her lower lip, staring at him with a dead expression. "I... am not angry. Do you want me to?"

    "No." Abel leaned over, linking his hand to rest his chin on the back of them. "Darling, then, why are you not paying attention to me?"

    He looked at her with anticipation in his eyes, unsmiling. Aries let out a defeated sigh, propping her arms against the edge of the table, eyes on him.

    "I am always paying attention to you," she admitted since she couldn''t keep her guard down around him. "Do you want me to look at you while you eat? I thought that will make you ufortable and it''s rude."<sub> </sub>

    "Not just by eating, but I want you to only look in my direction."

    "..."

    "It''s not fair when I think about you always, wondering what''s inside your mind. But you can''t even appreciate how amazing I am. Seriously. Rude!" A frown dominated his face, looking at her as if the entire world wronged him.

    ''Does he have a split personality? One second, he was a cold-blooded man who has no conscience poisoning me. Then the next second, he was like a child who needed undivided attention and whines.'' Aries didn''t know where to put herself anymore. ''Keep it together, Aries. Don''t let him drive you insane.''

    "Fine. What do you want to do?" she inquired helplessly, giving in since she didn''t have a choice.

    Abel looked up as he pondered for a second. "Prove that you''re not angry anymore."

    "How can I prove that?"

    "Stab your hand."

    "..."

    "I''m joking." He averted his eyes, an indicator he wasn''t joking. "We''re ying house. You''re the wife. Why don''t you feed me?"

    ''Ah... ying house.'' Aries rocked her head lightly. ''I am the wife and he is my eldest son. Right...''

    She shrugged off the unnecessary sarcastic thought she had in her head as she sported a smile. "Sure." Since there were only two chairs, Aries dragged her chair with all her might. She huffed when she finally reached his spot, plopping her butt down before facing him.

    But just as Aries faced him, Abel sprawled his arm across her front, hand on the armrest. Her brows rose in surprise as he buried his face on her shoulder, making her body stiffen almost instantly.

    "Don''t get upset anymore," he murmured with his other hand, settling on her back. "I don''t like it."

    "..." Aries warily cast him a side-eye. ''Did that really bother him?'' she asked herself, furrowing her brows.

    All she could do was awkwardly pat the arm across her. "I''m... not, really." Averting her eyes away, letting out another shallow breath. "I''m not thinking about it anymore and I already moved on. I was just famished."

    "Really?" to her surprise, Abel, who was acting like a clingy child moments ago, lifted his head to show his arched brow and smirk. "Are you sure?"

    ''How maniptive. I can''t believe I felt bad for him even the slightest bit.''

    Abel rested his chin on her shoulder de, smiling bewitchingly. He blew on her ears, making her tilt her head slightly.

    "I''m serious, though," he smiled subtly, almost relieved. "It bothers me, Aries. I don''t mind when you bother me... but not that kind of way."

    Aries carefully set her eyes on him, pressing her lips into a thin line. She squashed down whatever idea бк good or bad бк that was tempting to resurface in her head while staring at him.

 Chapter 35 Do You Want Me To?

    Today was the longest time Aries got to spend time with Abel. After he came into the study and poisoned her, Abel didn''t leave. They dined together, bathe together, and now, he wasbing her hair. She didn''t understand it.

    Why wouldn''t he leave her alone? Didn''t he have enough fun already? These types of questions kept hovering over her head while he wasbing her hair.

    Her eyes lifted, gazing at him, who was standing behind her.

    "I like your hair." Abel broke his silence,bing her hair meticulously, eyes on it. "It''s soothing like a greenery. How convenient to have walking greenery. I didn''t need to go to the garden."

    His fingertips scooped a few strands, staring at it in his palm. Her hair looked healthy and was shining even in the night. He couldn''t remember meeting anyone who bore such hair color; he probably met a few and he just couldn''t remember.

    "Do you always keep it down?" he raised his eyes and set them on her through the mirror.

    "Back in Rikhill, I always tie it up or braid it."

    "Huh." Out of curiosity, Abel held all her hair in one hand and raised it to see what she would look like. With a few strands of hair falling to her side, she was still stunning.

    "Darling, you look good in everything," hemented, releasing her hair as he peeled his eyes away from her to her hair. "Yesterday, the woman they called to my room has this different hair color бк I can''t remember. But I''m sure it''s not green."

    Her brows rose, gazing at his indifference. "Was that... the reason you came over the other night...?"

    "What else? I think I already told you the reason." He simply cast her a quick look before resuming in brushing her hair. "I don''t mean to gloat... much. But all the women I called to my bed desire me, even those I don''t call. As if they know how to deal with me."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, eyes lowering. "I don''t know what to do you with you too," came out a confession.

    "Yousted this long and now I''mbing your hair when a servant should be doing it, but sure. Let''s just say you don''t." He shrugged, brushing her hair with onest stroke. "But you don''t desire me, which is a bit sad. I feel like tearing up."

    She kept quiet, gazing at the hand to her side as he put the hairbrush back on top of the lowboy. He then nted his hands on her shoulders, bending over, eyes on her reflection.

    "Do you know what they call you, darling?" he inquired, making her brows raised. "The woman who makes the tyrante back to her chambers." He smirked, eyes squinting. "They wonder what methods you do and how wild you are. If only they know how abstinent I was... even though we bathe together many times and slept with you on the same fucking bed. They''d have a heart attack."

    "Do you... want to...?" she trailed off when he squeezed her shoulder.

    "Of course." He let out a dryugh, lowering his gaze at her reflection.

    "Then..." Aries gulped as she clutched her skirt. She had been curious all this time. Abel could take her whenever and wherever he pleased. There were times he had hinted at her. And yet... they didn''t go that far. She asked him already, but he gave her an unsatisfactory answer.

    With her clear eyes on his reflection, her lips parted. "You don''t have to practice abstinence if you don''t want to. I believed if you want something, you can have it. So why... why haven''t you touched me?"

    "Do you want me to?" Instead of an answer, he threw her a question that she couldn''t answer immediately.

    "Well, if you truly want to."

    "Do you want me to?" this time, he stressed his words. "I only need a yes or a no, darling. If you ask me, I will always say yes. But I am actually giving you an option here. If you lie, I will pretend I didn''t notice it and unleash my piled-up urges."

    "No." After careful consideration, Aries answered truthfully while gazing down. "I... came here prepared, but I don''t think I am prepared enough."<sub> </sub>

    "Then we don''t. Simple." She raised her head when he patted her shoulder and straightened his back. Abel then waved as he walked back to the bed, copsing on his back.

    "I''ll just fantasize about you since I''ve seen your body already." He bluntly mattered with azy voice, eyes on the ceiling. "I feel like a saint and all my sins are forgiven by fasting."

    Abel cocked his head and set his eyes on her as she perched on the edge of the mattress. "I think I''m a good person now."

    ''If it''s that simple...'' she didn''t dwell on the thought as shey on her side. Feet outside the bed just like him, eyes on him. ''Not forcing me is still good. This makes him a bit bearable to tolerate,'' she thought.

    "Come here." Abel crooked a finger, and she crawled to his side, resting the side of her head on his shoulder. "You''re not sleepy yet?" he asked, and she shook her head.

    "Good. You slept almost half of the day. Just sleep in the morning and stay awake with me during the night." He smacked his lips, casting her a knowing look. "Don''te back to him. I don''t like it."

    "Come back to who?"

    "To your previous owner, who else?" His brow arched. "Every night, you are with that man in your nightmares. I''m jealous."

    Normally, she would assume he was being unreasonable again. But deep down, if she could stop sleeping altogether, she would. She didn''t want to go back to those nightmares every time she closed her eyes and reopen the wounds in her heart repeatedly.

    "Let''s stay here. Oh, you might fall asleep if you have nothing else to do. How about we work in the garden and nt potatoes?"

    "In the middle of the night?"

    "Is there something wrong with that?"

    Aries gazed at him in silence. "Talking to you is enough to keep me awake."

    "But I don''t like to talk." He frowned as he suddenly narrowed his eyes as if a sudden thought distracted him. She studied him for a moment before she opened her mouth when his silence prolonged.

    "Uhm... can I ask what you are thinking?"

    "Potatoes." He snapped his eyes, rolling to his side until he was facing her. "I was thinking if I should bury you so you will grow as a good one."

    "I will wither." She blurted out.

    "Aww..."

    ''This is what I meant when I say talking to him is enough to keep me awake and guarded.'' She thought, letting out a sigh. ''I might wake up being thrown out of the window. Just like that dream. Oh, God. I''d want to assume he let me drink poison because he didn''t want me to sleep and have nightmares.''

    Aries looked at his side while he was staring at the ceiling in silence. The more she thought about it, if his reason earlier was to force her to sleep early to keep her awake, then... it was actually a good reason. Bad methods, though.

    "Thank you," her sudden remarks caused his brows to raise, refocusing his attention back to her. "For not forcing me and for keeping me awake. Actually, my rest earlier today is the longest one where I never experienced a nightmare. It is an irony since I nearly died, but... I think I''m crazy too for feeling grateful for that."

 Chapter 36 Can I Change My Hair Color?

    Perhaps it was because she was getting used to Abel that she could rx around him for a bit. Aries stayed up with him almost all night. But she still fell asleep before dawn. Still, theck of sleep and sudden change of her routine caused her to have a slight headache and feel sleepy. Hence, she was a bit distracted during her lesson with Dexter.

    "We''ll take a recess." Aries raised her head at the man across from her. "I called for tea. You didn''t notice since it seems your mind is drifting elsewhere."

    Her eyes lowered, seeing a cup of tea on the side of her open book. She blinked countless times before lifting her head once again.

    "I''m sorry, Marquess Vandran." She smiled awkwardly.

    "It''s alright. I heard you were poisoned yesterday."

    "You... huh?"

    "Sir Conan told me what His Majesty did and asked me to be... sensitive," he exined in a knowing tone, tilting his head to the side. "I can''t force my only student if she is still a little groggy from the poison."

    ? Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. That was not why she was distracted. After she had taken an antidote and eaten a lot, she was alright as if nothing happened. She was simply sleepy now.

    "Thank you." She expressed closed lip. "I will focus after a moment of recess."

    "You don''t have to force yourself if you can''t."

    Aries gazed at Dexter and heaved a sigh of relief. Although he was cold and distant, this Marquess was probably the only normal person in the pce. She didn''t consider Conan a normal one, nor did she think she was part of the normal in this ce.

    KNOCK KNOCK!

    "Lady Aries, His Majesty sent you a tea."

    Aries and Dexter turned their attention to the door, watching a maid entered with a tray in her hands. She carefully approached the table, bowing to the Marquess and then to Aries. Thetter stretched her neck, seeing that the cup was almost empty again.

    ''Is this another poisoned tea served to him?'' she wondered, recalling that she agreed to ingest poison until she grew immunity. While the maid carefully serve the tea to Aries, Dexter quirked a brow.

    "That''s poisoned." He pointed out without a second hesitation, watching her hold the cup and look at him without the trace of surprise. "You will drink poison just because he gave it to you?"

    "This won''t kill me."

    "How are you sure?" Dexter shifted his attention to the maid, waving to dismiss her. The servant bowed and left without a word, closing the door carefully. Once the click of the door caressed his ears, Dexter shifted his eyes back to her.

    "It didn''t kill me yesterday," she affirmed.

    "What if it kills you today?" his reply was quicker than a bolt of lightning, narrowing his eyes at her unaffected countenance.

    "Then... shall I refuse it?" she asked, blinking almost innocently. "If His Majesty asked why I refused his benevolence, shall I say, because Marquess Vandran told me to?"

    His mouth fell open, but no words came out. Dexter rocked his head, eyes still studying her unfazed expression. How smart, he thought. Aries''s tone was friendly, but her way of words would leave others speechless.<sub> </sub>

    "Thank you, Marquess Vandran. Though I appreciate your concern." She smiled subtly before gazing at the inconsiderable amount of tea left in the cup. This was lesser than yesterday. So, she thought she would be fine.

    "His Majesty is not forcing me. This is a mutual agreement." Her eyes raised once again and held his gaze. "Anything can happen here. At the very least, consuming poison is not what will kill me in the future."

    "In the future..."

    Dexter just stared at her withplex emotions in his eyes, watching her huffed and unhesitatingly guide the cup to her lips. She winced because of the strong bitter taste of it, covering her lips with the back of her fist.

    He leaned back, eyes fluttering ever so tenderly. "Even if you''re saying this is to gain immunity to poison, drinking poison is still detrimental to one''s health. Also, do you have an idea what type of poison you just consumed? Even that insignificant amount can kill you."

    "Huh... but I''m still alive," came out a weak yet proud response, flinching when Dexter tossed something over the table. "Huh?" the corner of her lips curled down at the small ball wrapped in thin special material.

    "That is to fight the bitter taste. His Majesty prefers strong vor, but it looks like you''re more affected by it than what''s in it." Dexter exined in the same distant tone, watching her pick up the candy.

    "You like sweets?" she inquired while unwrapping it, smiling. Who would have thought that this man who always carried himself as noble was carrying candies?

    "I don''t like sweets." He looked away when she nced up. "I just carry one with me all the time."

    "Thank you," she expressed before throwing the ball of candy in her mouth. A sigh of relief slipped past her lips as the sweet melted into her mouth, devouring all the bitterness of the poisoned tea.

    Meanwhile, Dexter remained silent with his jaw propped against his knuckles. He wasn''t lying when he said even that negligible amount could kill her; it was a poison meant to kill the emperor, after all. It was potent.

    But he wasn''t also surprised that she hadn''t copsed yet. He got a whiff of the faint scent of Abel''s blood diluted in it. Not many knew what that tyrant could do since only a few were allowed to exist whilst knowing what he was.

    ''What is surprising, though, is that he seemed to not want her dead.'' He narrowed his eyes, humming in his head. For a moment, the side of his lips curled up into a smirk.

    "Lady Aries, shall we continue our lesson?" he asked as the glint in his eyes faded without a trace.

    "Yes. Thank you for your patience."

    ******

    Meanwhile, in the emperor''s office, Conan stood in front of the desk with a dead expression. Abel just asked him a ridiculous question while pointing at his head.

    "Did you hear me? I want to change my hair color to green. Maybe, if I have the same soothing hair color, people will not fear me anymore," Abel repeated with an air of nonchnce. "Just think like this, Conan. If you''re dying, it is better to see the face of nature than a monster, right? I''ll be sending them all off in peace."

    Conan patted his chest, trying to lower his blood pressure. "Your Majesty, just say you want to see Lady Aries. I will go and fetch her after her lecture."

    "How nice of you, my dearest advisor. This is why you''re my advisor!" The side of Abel''s lips stretched into a bright grin, causing Conan to shake his head lightly.

 Chapter 37 Will You Marry Me, Darling?

    It had been a week since Aries started taking a little amount of poison daily. Even so, she still hadn''t gotten used to the strong bitter taste of Abel''s tea. Yes. He still send the same teacup he had used instead of transferring it to another cup.

    It has also been a week since Abel kept dragging her wherever he was. After her lesson, Conan would fetch her to the bustling emperor''s pce.

    Today was no different. Aries was sitting on the same settee with Abel inside the emperor''s office. With his arms draped across the backrest, he was casually stroking her hair while reading a document in his other hand.

    Aries nced at him curiously, having nothing to do but sit and keep quiet. Still, her time with Abel gave him a different light.

    "Huh... so there is a huge possibility of theck of harvest this year in that wretched kingdom?" Abel rocked his head, ncing at Isaiah, who was sitting across from them.

    As the two engaged in a conversation, Aries gazed down. She thought Abel was nothing but an unreasonable tyrant who only wanted chaos. However, Abel was more than his atrocities and sinful lifestyle. He was smart; sometimes even Aries was in awe.

    Abel doesn''t just attack a kingdom or nation on a whim бк although that was what it looked like. He would study their kingdom, the current state of affairs, and consider all the pros and cons.

    "Shall we attack them before the year ends, darling?" she snapped her eyes when he cocked his head to her, eyshes fluttering ever so tenderly. "You were listening, correct? What do you think?"

    Her breathing slowed down. Why was he giving her the power to bring suffering to other people? Although conquering wasn''t new to her, she didn''t have the heart to decide for that.

    "Darling, what are you so reluctant about?" he tilted his head, staring at her with wonder. "You heard about their king бк who is, by the way, as huge as a pig бк and his disgraceful ruling."

    "Attacking a nation, even though their ruler was terrible, wasn''t an excuse to victimize the innocent," she voiced out bravely, staring at him with caution. "I''m not saying you''re a bad person or anything, though. I''m just saying..." she added, just in case she stepped out of bounds too much.

    "I know, right?" Abel sighed and clicked his tongue, casting Isaiah, the Duke, and his righthand man a nasty look. "Isaiah is such a vicious man. How can he suggest we attack a nation so easily?"

    "..." Isaiah, who was already used to Abel''s sidements throughout the years serving him, remained silent. Instead, he raised his sharp eyes to Aries. Thetter hung her head low, sensing a chill down her spine.

    "Oh, Isaiah, don''t look at my Aries like that." Abel frowned, pulling her head close to his side protectively. "You''re scaring her."

    "Your Majesty, I don''t think Lady Aries should be hearing this."

    "Why not? Are you afraid she will sell this information?" he inquired, ncing at her.

    This time, Aries lifted her head in panic. "How could I?" she blurted out her defense. But to her surprise, Abel grinned and patted her head gently to soothe her.

    "It''s alright, darling. No need to panic. You''ll make a lot of money if you sell the information you hear from here. You''ll be wealthy in no time. Once you build your wealth, you''ll be the one providing for me."

    For a second, Aries''s mind went nk. All she could do was stare at him until he peeled his pair of delighted eyes away to Isaiah. Abel, as if he didn''t give her a dreadful idea, continued his discussion with him.

    Meanwhile, Aries didn''t know whether to heave a sigh of relief or be scared. Abel took her opinion and changed ns. Instead of conquering and through fear, he already made up a scheme to absorb a kingdom under the empire without too much blood.<sub> </sub>

    ''Well, Haimirich Empire will not be one of the prosperous empires in history if the emperor just knows how to terrorize his subjects.'' She mentally nodded. ''As an emperor, Abel is perfect. But as a person... never mind.''

    As the meeting of the two came to an end, Isaiah bowed. But instead of standing up, he remained seated with his eyes on Abel.

    "Your Majesty, do you n on bringing Lady Aries to the meeting with the aristocrats?" Isaiah''s sudden inquiry caused her breath to hitch. Abel, on the other hand, simply arched a brow.

    "Is there something wrong with that?"

    Isaiah stared at his emperor for a second in silence. "Nothing, Your Majesty."

    "I''ll go see them in a while. They can wait. My little darling is a bit tired, so she needs rest." Abel waved nonchntly, dismissing his sword. Thetter left silently after bowing with his arms across his abdomen.

    As the duke left, Aries could only stare at his back. Tired? She wasn''t tired. Was Abel using her just to annoy the people he wanted to meet?

    When the door closed, Abel leaned back with a frown dominating his face. "Darling, you should pretend you copsed, so I have a reason not to attend to my next agenda." Aries gazed at him, wide-eyed.

    "Those in the aristocrat faction will surely give me a headache. I would''ve silenced them all if not for Conan," he continued irritably, showing his reluctance to attend. "Do you know why I don''t want to attend?"

    "Uh... no?"

    He sighed, gazing at her rear while tucking her hair behind her ear. "They always bring up the talks of my marriage. Even when I already told them I won''t be taking an empress, they just won''t give up. I can''t stand them." His eyes narrowed, shifting his gaze to meet her eyes.

    p "Should I marry you?" he inquired бк more like a suggestion.</anda>

    "Pardon?"

    "Will you marry me, darling?" he asked, rendering her speechless бк almost leaving her breathless бк because of how abrupt it was. "If you marry me, you''ll be the empress. If you be one, you will hold power the same as mine in this empire. You''ll gain the power to kill me."

    "Your Majesty, do you think I want to kill you?" she blurted out.

    "No. I''m simply selling myself. Being an empress is still far better than being known as a princess from a fallen kingdom and a mistress, don''t you think?" he cocked his head to the side, eyshes fluttering ever so tenderly.

    "Are youбн serious?" her question already left her lips even before she could think about it.

    With his eyes holding hers, he asked. "Do you think I am joking?"

 Chapter 38 Penpal

    "Do you think I am joking?"

    Aries and Abel stared at each other in silence. The gears in her head turned at an unimaginable speed, thinking if this was a trap. She understood his capricious mood, but this was no joking matter, nor it was a topic they could take so lightly.

    "That''s strange," he spoke after some time of silence, nting a thumb on her chin. "Others would surely rejoice if I offered their daughter this title, but you... don''t want it? Was there anything you''d want from me aside from not killing you?"

    Abel cocked his head to the side, blinking cluelessly. "How can I pamper you if you don''t ask me anything?"

    "I... just don''t embrace things I know I can''t," came out a soft voice, eyes on those pair of deadly deep rubies. "Being an empress is beyond me."

    "You break my heart. Is that the only reason? Or you just don''t want to carry myst name?" For a split second, bitterness resurfaced in his eyes, but instantly faded without a trace.

    "It''s not like that." She lowered her eyes. "I simply do not want to covet something that I shouldn''t."

    Abel pressed his lips and its corners curved down. "If that is what you say. My offer will remain. Once you decided to be an empress, I will make you one."

    As he withdrew his thumb from her chin, Aries snuck a look at him. Her lips formed a thin line, noticing this distinct air around him she couldn''t describe in words.

    <strong>****</strong>

    The day had passed in a blur. Aries apanied Abel throughout the day; meeting nobles, key individuals who contributed to the empire, and staying in his office until the night approached. That had been her routine for the past week.

    Today was different.

    Aries was bothered throughout the day after her strange conversation with him. Hence, she couldn''t sleep. So she went out to the balcony for some air.

    She hid her body with the shawl wrapped around her, gazing at the dark greenery from the pce she stayed in. "An Empress, huh?" she whispered, taking a deep breath of fresh air as the night breeze kissed her cheeks.

    "Why would he look at me with those empty eyes again when I refused?"

    Actually, Aries was smart and talented enough to take up the role. If she put her heart and mind into it, she could be a just ruler of an empire. However, epting that role also meant she would be forever bound with Abel. Not that that wasn''t the case right now.

    Deep down, she still hoped Abel would let her go one of these days. Although... there was this chilling feeling that this would be harder than she thought.

    She opened her eyes slowly. "Is he... bing obsessed with me?" she wondered, grip on the shawl tightening.

    Up until now, Aries treated Abel ordingly, said the things he wanted to hear, and actedfortably. There were times his face would light up with kindness, even for a split second. She spent day and night with him except tonight, but during all those times, she must admit he was bing less terrifying.

    Although Abel could still be daunting at times, she got used to it already. But did her action cause a different effect than what she anticipated?

    "I feel like I am always cornered and need to make a life and death decision," she mumbled with a deep sigh. "It''s a good thing he said he is busy tonight. That''s why he won''te. I think I can breathe for now."

    Just as Aries was about to go back to her room, her brows furrowed. A crow suddenlynded on the railings. Her eyes instantly fell on the rolled parliament, making her look around.<sub> </sub>

    "Is this a letter meant for me?" she wondered, approaching the crow warily. When she was certain the crow wouldn''t attack her, she carefully reached to untie the rolled parliament tied on its feet.

    [ Awake? бк Abel ]

    "Huh?" Aries checked the back of the small paper to see if that was all it. It was empty. "Did he send a crow just to send that one word?"

    She gazed at the crow which was looking back at her. "Was it waiting for me to respond?" Aries studied the crow for a minute before checking the letter once again.

    "He''s scaring me," she whispered before walking back inside, leaving the door ajar. Aries didn''t idle and perched on the chair in front of the desk, writing back to him.

    [ Yes. ]

    Aries stopped after writing her answer. But staring at the spaces of the parliament, she felt a bit... guilty. How could they waste papers like this? So, she wrote more.

    [ I was standing on the balcony and noticed that I can see the emperor''s pce from here. I cannot help but think how hardworking the emperor was to be working evente in the night. ]

    She read it again, regretting writing this instantly. However, her regret wasn''t enough to stop her from rolling it. Using the string from the letter she received from him, she tied it meticulously. Aries went outside, and the crow was still there.

    "So he is expecting a reply, huh?" she mumbled, approaching the crow discreetly. As soon as she securely tied the letter around the crow''s feet, it fled. Just like that.

    Aries watched it fly away until it faded into the darkness. "Was he bored while in the middle of something important?" she muttered, recalling Abel addressing it as an ''important'' matter.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Meanwhile, in the forbidden area of the emperor''s pce...

    Abel stood in front of the window. He raised an arm, letting the crownd on it. The side of his lips curled up, seeing a paper tied around its feet. He carefully untied it, flinging his arm, making the crow fly inside the room.

    "She really knows what I want to hear..." he mumbled in delight. "... and drives me crazy."

    He read her letter multiple times before he turned around. Abel walked over a body on the floor as if it wasn''t there, heading to the desk to write back. Once he was done writing, he cocked his head to where the crow was at.

    His eyesnded on the piles of body scattered around the bedroom, ignoring the blood sttered across the room. It was a dreadful sight to behold and yet he was unfazed.

    "Send this to her," he whistled, making the crow that was nibbling on a person''s eye fly towards him. Abel tied the letter, and the crow flew to the pce where Aries was staying. As the crow did, Abel assisted himself up.

    "I wonder what she will say if I told her about this." He breathed out, staring at the mess he made just so she wouldn''t die in his hands. "My Aries... you have no idea that the longer you live, the more people will die in your stead..."

    Abel sauntered into the opened window, hand on the sill. He breathed in through his gritted teeth, letting his side tooth stretch until they were fangs. He stretched his neck sideways, eyes narrowing dangerously.

    "... and I am fine with that."

 Chapter 39 Holding On To Dear Life... Or Dear Death

    Explicit usage of words written in delicate penmanship. Just like Abel, whose beauty was out of this world with a dark soul theplete opposite of his beautiful shell. Aries felt like she could hear his voice while reading his ridiculous letter.

    "There''s no doubt he''s the sender of these letters," she murmured, peeling her eyes away from the letter to the poor crow. It had been flying back and forth to deliver unimportant memoranda.

    Aries raised her hand, extending it to pat its head cautiously. "I won''t be replying anymore," she said, following Abel''s instruction. "Thank you."

    She jumped away when the crow cawed and flew away. For a second, her heart raced, watching the crow fade into the dark.

    "Even if he is crazy, I didn''t think he can make a raven fly a note," came out a whisper, in awe that Abel was using a crow to deliver his correspondence. "Well, he is Abel. What else can he not do?"

    Aries shrugged and shook her head lightly, walking back inside her room to rest. She had been exchanging letters with Abel for over an hour. He didn''te to her room, but he still found a way to bother her. What a talent.

    As Aries slipped under the quilt, she fixed her eyes on the ceiling. "He will drive me crazy, truly." A deep sigh slipped past her nostrils, eyes narrowing as her mind could remember all his notes.

    Abel was the type of person who would use big words without thinking of the consequences or their effect. Not that his romantic letters reached her heart, but she perceived them as warnings. He was a person who would say anything that the other person wanted to hear; like a devil who whispers sinful ideas in a person''s ear.

    "It''s not like he is the only one..." she breathed out, closing her eyes to rest. "... I also speak the words he wants to hear, anyway. It''s only fair if he does the same."

    All interactions with him were akin to a lesson, tackling his personality deeper with every passing day. In this case, Aries could rx a bit, knowing Abel wouldn''t kill her for no reason. Still, he could hurt her if she push her luck too far.

    The side of her lips curled up, rolling to her side before opening her eyes once again. ''Am I enjoying it somehow?'' she wondered, realizing the smile on her face. ''I can''t deny that even though I am treading on thin ice, discovering and learning a new side of him gives me a bit of confidence that I already lost. It''s like learning a newnguage and a foreignnd''s interesting custom.''

    "He is fascinating in a way," came out another whisper, sighing as her weak smile faded. "How could such aplicated person exist? One second, he tells me he wants to see me in pain. The next moment, he''d say take care. Appalling. Was he aware that he''s crazy?"

    Once again, Aries closed her eyes after shaking her thoughts away. That was enough of Abel today. She had to stop thinking about him like a project she must finish. Instead, she convinced herself that she should enjoy this time alone.

    ''Silence...'' she whispered internally. ''... so precious.''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Hours had gone by and the night only fell deeper and deeper. Aries eventually fell asleep бк although a bitter than usual. Well, she had been sleepingte and actually adjusted her sleeping schedule ever since Abel kept visiting her quarters every single night.<sub> </sub>

    She also stopped having nightmares recently, so she had been sleeping well. As she slept like a log, faint footsteps resounded on the terrace connected to her room. With the door left ajar, Abel carefully pushed it open with the back of his hand, producing a light creak.

    As the door opened, his shadow stretched inside the room. His glowing red eyes fell on his own shadow;rge ck wings that were akin to a bat''s wings, sharp fangs, and one horn on his right side. He gazed at his hand, staring at his bloody palm and sharp ck ws.

    Should he go in? He wondered, idling by the door of the terrace. He had calmed down now, so it was safe to approach her.

    Abel, unbothered by the absence of his top, raised his eyes on the figure sleeping soundlessly on the bed. She was sleeping on her side, facing his direction. The longer he stared, the calmer he got. Slowly but surely, therge, sharp wings returned inside his back. As it did, blood gushed out from where it was attached.

    Just like the terrifying wings, his ws returned to human hands, and all the additional features Aries had never seen before. It took a couple of minutes before Abel went back to his normal state, but the blood that gushed out from him remained.

    "Aries," he called under his breath, sauntering towards the bed and standing beside it. He tilted his head to one side, then slowly to the other. "I''m back, darling."

    Abel, whose hands were sullied with his and other people''s blood, carefully reached to touch her. He didn''t care if it stained her cheek, because his desire to touch her was far stronger than anything.

    "Mhm..." she moaned and adjusted, but didn''t wake up.

    He sat down on the edge of the mattress, eyes still on her. He came to her as soon as he quenched his hunger; something he would usually quench for at least three days straight. Not because he was already satisfied, but because his hunger was more insatiable than ever. The irony.

    "Darling." Abel slipped under the quilt carefully, blood staining the sheet. He crawled his arms under her neck, adjusting her cautiously to not wake her until she was secure in his embrace.

    But no matter how careful he was, Aries grunted. She opened her eyes weakly, half-conscious and asleep.

    "Mhm. You''re back?" she inquired in a half-conscious state, moving closer to him with eyes closed as a habit she picked up just recently. "So soon... but let''s sleep more, Abel."

    For a moment, his entire body grew stiff before it rxed. The lines on his forehead slowly disappeared as his stiff expression softened.

    "Mhm. Good night," he whispered, sniffing her hair until his lips touched her forehead. "Even in this state, your survival instinct is promising."

    Instead of showing a cold expression, the side of his lips curled up. Closing his eyes, Abel embraced her as if he was holding onto dear life... or dear death.

 Chapter 40 Not In This Lifetime

    Aries''s eyes crossed when she opened them, backing away only to be stilled by him.

    "Morning." She froze, watching his longshes flutter open, wide-eyed. "Surprise?"

    ''Didn''t he say he will be busy for the next three days or so?'' that question instantly rose in her head, blinking to fix her crossed eyes.

    "I missed you," he confessed under his breath, pulling her closer whilst closing his eyes. "Finished it early."

    "..."

    Her breathing slowed down, blinking nkly as she let her brain buffer. Aries could clearly remember Abel said he would attend to something very important. Almost like reassuring her.

    So why was he here again? On the second thought, this also felt like deja vu.

    It was just like that time when he said he was going on a month trip. But then, he just appeared the next day!

    "Can you dance?" his coarse voice snapped her back to reality. "There will be a week celebration three weeks from now. Balls, banquets, huntingpetition, boring stuff. Basically, a celebration of things that annoys me. Want to go?"

    "What time did youe?" she blurted out, making his brows raise.

    "Dawn. So, do you want to go?"

    Aries smacked her lips. "If you asked me to go, I will go. But it''s still early and you should rest more since you came at dawn."

    "Concern?" he asked, drawing his head back to see her face. She was not, he thought, seeing the rity in her eyes. Not that he didn''t see thating.

    "Your Majesty works hard. He should also take care of himself and put his worries aside for now." She sported a subtle smile.

    Abel blinked twice, eyes falling to her cheek. There was still dried blood on it without her knowing. He slipped his hand from under the quilt to brush her cheek with his thumb.

    "Everyone is curious about my pet," he crooned, eyes fluttering ever so tenderly. "I want to take you with me and gloat. So those nobles know why this man they all call a tyrant is going insane."

    "I... don''t drive you cra -- i"

    "You do. Take responsibility." For a split second, her brain buzzed at this not-so-brain-racking trivia. "My Aries acts like she cares and not at the same time. She teases me and then goes to sleep. Makes me hard and pretends she did nothing. Aren''t you cruel?"

    ''This is why I told him to sleep more.'' She frowned, getting used of the things she didn''t do. Well, she was guilty in the first half of his usations, but she knew he was aware of her survival method.

    "Let''s go, alright?" His face lit up with a smile.

    ''I already told him I will, though.''

    "Sure." Aries raised her hands and cupped his jaw. "Now you rest." Treating him like a child, she moved up and nted a kiss on his eyes. "I will die if you fell ill."<sub> </sub>

    A low chuckle slipped past his lips. "How sweet."

    "Is that alright? You''re not fond of sweets."

    "I''m not, but you''re sweet and bitter at the same time, bittersweet."

    When Abel closed his eyes again, Aries carefully breathed out. His grip around her was firm, not letting her go like usual. But she was already used to him, so she was calmer.

    Her brows raised upon noticing the red stain on the sheet. ''Blood again,'' she muttered inwardly, but not surprised anymore. Blood trailed Abel like a shadow. Wherever he go, the footsteps behind him were tainted with red.

    ''How can a person just kill without remorse?'' she wondered, staring at his bewitching face. ''Not that I care. I have my own struggles and keeping myself alive is my priority.''

    To make him sleep for a bit longer and stop bothering her, Aries stroked his hair. "Why do you alwayse back immediately, Abel?" she asked in a soft tone, knowing he wasn''t totally asleep yet. "Did you really... just miss me?"

    "Who knows?" he answered in a deep,zy voice. "You nevere to me. I won''t see you if I don''t see you."

    His answer was enough to answer all other questions she had in her headst night. She continued stroking his hair, eyes closing until they were partially closed.

    ''He will never let you go, Aries,'' her brain told her, embracing her heart from the fear enveloping it. ''Not in this lifetime.''

    "Yes." She flinched when he spoke after a minute of silence. "I will not let you go. Not in this lifetime. Unless... there''s another Aries in this world."

    Aries tried to move her foot бк the foot that was bound by a thick invisible chain with an iron ball attached to it. It didn''t budge. The remaining pieces of her heart sank as the sliver of hope she held onto disappeared by the thick, grey clouds of emotions.

    She had dealt with a man who was so obsessed with her he conquered their kingdom. So, she knew the terror of facing another obsession.

    Even though the crown prince of Maganti and Abel were two different people, the route was the same. Despite that, since Aries already crawled back and forth on that thorny path, she was somehow calm and a little confident walking down that road again.

    "You mean someone who looks like Aries? Or someone who acts like Aries here in Haimirich?" she asked in the same tone, watching his eyes open ever so slowly.

    "Aries who makes me feel the spark of madness." His tone was deep and firm. "If you present me a recement that fits that one requirement, I''ll let you go."

    "Let me go?"

    "I''ll let you go alive," he stressed, looking at her straight in the eye. "You have my word. Until then, you... are mine."

    There was this distinct stress in his im as if he wanted to etch that in her mind. He nted his palm on her jaw, leaning forward to nt a brief kiss on her lips. As he drew his head back, the side of his lips curled up.

    "I told you." He wiped her lower lip with his thumb. "You''d wish you died that night. You won''t like me obsessing over something; it never ends well. Find another Aries; that''s your assignment. Good luck."

 Chapter 41 First Impression Lasts

    "I warned you. Drinking poison will slowly damage you. You''ve been very distractedtely and I can''t even pretend to get angry."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin. It was another day of her lesson in literature with Dexter in the study.

    "I''m sorry." She sighed, dropping her hand on herp as she leaned back. "Marquess Vandran, can we skip today''s lesson?"

    "And why should I agree?" his brow arched, noticing the gradual change of the meek Aries into something more... courageous. Not that she would demand anything from him. But rather, her asional request out of nowhere still gets him off guard.

    "Just because..." Aries lowered her eyes and smacked her lips faintly. "... I''m just wasting your time, I think."

    "I agreed to be your tutor, knowing I am wasting my time teaching someone on death row."

    She nced at him, studying his demeanor before her shoulder rxed. "Make sense."

    "So... another love problem?" he chuckled dryly when she scrunched her nose up. "Forgive me. I just simply find it ufortable talking about His Majesty during his absence."

    "It''s alright, Marquess Vandran. He just gave me an assignment, that''s all."

    "And for the clever Miss Aries to mention this to me... I am intrigued." His lips stretched, but it didn''t reach his eyes.

    Another sigh slipped past her lips. Dexter was so sharp and straightforward; he was just like Conan, But thetter had his own way of delivering his thoughts. Also, Conan was easier to get along with. Even so, Dexter was not a terrible person. Although their rtionship barely had development.

    "Marquess Vandran, can I ask you something?" she inquired, watching him tilt his head lightly. "Do I look special?"

    "Special? You?" he snorted, but she simply nodded and ignored the sarcasm in his tone. Seeing the seriousness in her eyes, Dexter cleared his throat and pondered for a moment.

    "By appearance? A bit. Personality-wise, it suits a wise princess."

    "I mean, what is your opinion about me?" she inquired because his answer was already generic and predictable. Of course, she would look different because she came from a foreign country and she was a fallen princess.

    "Miss Aries, I do not mean to offend, but may I know the reason?" he asked, intrigued by this self-review survey she was conducting.

    "Just..."

    "Does this have anything to do with the task given to you?"

    Aries reluctantly nodded with a frown. "Since I can''t really tell what sort of person I am, I want to ask the people I am interacting with."<sub> </sub>

    "Hmm. Is that so? Let''s see..." She blinked twice, the wrinkle on her forehead resurfacing under his gaze. "You are smart. There are not many people who can keep up with me in a conversation. Although we usually keep our conversation within the topic, you were always on the same page as I am. So my opinion about you is you are a smartdy."

    "Oh..." Aries rocked her head in understanding and then mumbled. "... she should be a smart one?"

    "Who should be the smart one?" he quirked a brow.

    Aries snapped her eyes at him, clearing her throat. "Aries." Her answer piqued his interest, which not many could do. Observing him, she weighed whether to give Dexter a hint or let it be.

    "I''m looking for another Aries." That was all she said.

    To her surprise, Dexterughed, because that was enough for him to grasp the situation.

    "You mean a recement to your role?" her mouth fell open while heughed. "That is the assignment His Majesty gave you? For you to find someone to rece you?"

    Although she was surprised at how quickly he caught on, Aries didn''t deny it or confirm it. Instead, she stared at Dexter, watching him lean to his side, elbow propped against the armrest.

    "Considering it was His Majesty, that is something to be expected." He rocked his head, knowing this type of thing was Abel''s game. "But Miss Aries, that is quite a hard task. If he gave you his word, then that only means he truly means it. However, I don''t think you will seed."

    "How so?"

    "Because it''s His Majesty. Anything that catches his eyes are... let''s just say rare. That book, for example." He pointed at the open book in front of her, nonchnce surrounding him.

    "For you and I, it''s a book in literature and we use it because it''s informative and we need it for our lesson. So, more or less, it has some importance." He paused and chuckled briefly. "For His Majesty, however, that doesn''t matter. If he said it is important, then it is important. If he likes it, even if he doesn''t read it or know its content, then he likes it. For what reason? Perhaps it was because of how the pages smell? Or how the cover feels upon his touch? Or just how it appears in his eyes? No one knows exactly."

    "..."

    Deep down, Aries already knew this. But hearing it from the marquess''s mouth still upset her.

    "What I''m trying to say is, how I see you or how you view yourself is probably different from his perspective. So, instead of asking me or anyone else, why not ask His Majesty? I''m sure he is more than willing to help." His smile barely reached his eye, nodding encouragingly.

    "I''ll give you a hint, though. As a subject who had served the empire for a very long time, one thing I learned is that the first impression is always crucial. If his first impression on you left an impact, be it for a bad or worse reason, it''ll always be there, like a curse."

    Aries absorbed his words like a sponge, ruminating over them as if his words weren''t as clear as to how he worded them. She snapped her eyes and set them at him again, seeing him check his pocket watch.

    "Our lesson is over," he announced while putting back the pocket watch inside his suit. "I wish you good luck, Miss Aries. May you undo the curse that befell you. If you seeded, please tell me the secret."

 Chapter 42 Playing Cupid

    "... If you seeded, please tell me the secret."

    Aries frowned while his smirk stretched. They both turned their heads in the door when a knock reach their ear and it opened slowly. Conan peeked his head in, smiling awkwardly.

    "Marquess, you''re still here?" he inquired as he went inside while Dexter peeled his leg over his other leg before he stood up.

    "You''re a bit early, Sir Conan. But I am also on my way out." Dexter exined formally, cing his chair to how it was before he got in here. When he was done, he gazed at Conan and then at Aries, tilting his head down.

    "Until our next lesson, Lady Aries," he said before facing Conan squarely. His smile persisted and tilted his head down slightly before he left.

    Conan nced at him as the former walked past him. He didn''t speak until Dexter left the study.

    "Lady Aries, His Majesty said he wants you to apany him on the training grounds."

    "In a minute." Aries sighed as she closed the book reluctantly. As usual, after her lesson, she would have to apany Abel wherever he goes. Be it a meeting or he was just staying in his office, Aries''s presence was required.

    "Lady Aries, is this about the assignment His Majesty gave you?" she nced up, seeing Conan sit on where Dexter sat down previously. "Did you ask Marquess Vandran for help?"

    "I did." Aries continued to arrange the book slowly to buy herself some time.

    Yesterday, during her history lesson with Conan, they focused more on talking about Abel. Since she trusted him a bit and he trusted her, Aries also asked Conan the same question she asked Dexter. Well, she didn''t really need to keep this a secret since Abel, himself, wished her luck.

    Conan''s answer was almost simr to Dexter''s first answer. Although it was his idea to ask Dexter for advice, since he was the smart one.

    "Was it helpful?" he inquired, intrigued by the result she got.

    "Yes."

    "Then why do you look like you are more in distress?"

    Aries looked at him dead in the eye. "Sir Conan, do you really not know?"

    "Uh... right." Seeing her expression, he understood the dilemma. "It just became moreplicated, huh?"

    She didn''t speak anymore, pounding two books she was holding against the surface of the table. While she was purposely trying to dy her departure, Conan watched her in silence.

    "Lady Aries, I know you want to ''regain'' your freedom, but aren''t you mostly free?" he asked, making her stop as she looked back at him. "I mean, no one is stopping you from doing anything you want. It''s not like I don''t trust His Majesty''s words, but was leaving actually the best option?"

    "What do you mean, Sir Conan?"

    "I mean, why don''t you try to... open your heart to His Majesty? I know he is unpredictable and can be a handful, but he can give you anything you ask if he likes you enough," he exined with a shrug. "Although he is dangerous, you only need to be terrified of him if you touch his bottom line."

    Aries blinked countless times. "Sir Conan, are you running a fever?"

    "Well, am I? I am under a lot of stresstely." Conan touched his forehead to check as if he didn''t know about his health condition.

    "I just asked, since it seems you have a lot of things in mind."

    "Lady Aries, how can you say that? I''m just giving you some options since..."<sub> </sub>

    "What if he doesn''t like me anymore?" she asked in a dead tone, letting out a shallow breath. "Sir Conan, you are right that no one is stopping me from doing anything I want, but I had done nothing that I want. These lessons, the beautiful dresses, these jewelries, the luxurious lifestyle... I never asked for them. But I''m doing so because, as you''ve said, one only needs to be terrified if they touch His Majesty''s bottom line. I don''t have enough lives to spare and test whether refusing these will touch his bottom line бк I can''t risk it."

    What he said was nothing but ridiculous. Although she couldn''t me Conan for stating so, Aries''s case was different. Abel doesn''te to Conan''s bedroom and sleep with him, after all.

    "Well, I''m just saying..." he frowned but didn''t argue, respecting her point. "Just the maybe''s, you know?"

    "I understand you, Sir Conan. But if I can really do anything, can I go out of the pce?" she inquired after a moment of silence. A weak scoff escaped her nostrils when he didn''t answer. "That''s my point. If His Majesty gave me this opportunity, I should grab it. Even if it''s all games for him, I want to take it seriously. If I still failed after doing my best, then..."

    She trailed off as she lowered her eyes. "Then I''ll probably resort to your suggestion. Until then, I want to keep trying."

    "I''ll be rooting for you then, Lady Aries." She smiled meekly as he cheer her on. "I really do. Just tell me if you need anything. I''ll find alldies with green hair if you like."

    "Thank you." She chuckled. "She should be smart, too. Add that on our list."

    "Got you."

    <strong>*******</strong>

    When Aries and Conan reached the training ground, they went ahead to the tform to amodate the audience not far away. She sat down on one of the chairs, eyes on Abel in the middle of the training ground.

    "This is the first time I''ve seen His Majesty train his archery skill," she muttered, watching Abel stretch the string, focused eyes on the straw target. "He will hit it," she predicted even before he could shoot.

    However, while Abel narrowed his eyes, he felt a gaze from a direction. He quirked a brow, cocking his head only to see Aries staring back at him from the audience tform.

    The side of his lips curled up into a smirk. "Who is that gorgeous thing over there?" he intoned, turning his body so that he was aiming at her.

    Aries couldn''t react quickly as a strong wind already blew past her, wide-eyed. A few strands of her hair slowly fell down after getting grazed by the sharp arrow.

    For a moment, all she could do was blink whilst holding her breath бк almost experienced a mini heart attack. When she recovered, she looked over her shoulder, only to see the arrow embedded on the wooden wall behind her.

    "Sir Conan, where is the easiest route to leave the pce?" Her expression was dead, setting her eyes at Conan''s pale face.

    "Lady Aries... please don''t leave me yet..."

    They looked at each other with nk eyes for a moment. As her ally, his face gradually turned red and red daggers at the culprit.

    "Your Majesty! Did you ask us toe here so you can use us as your targets!? Do you really wish us dead?! How can you bully Lady Aries the moment shees?!" A series ofints flowed out in Conan''s mouth, only to receive augh from Abel.

    "Why are you angry, Conan? I''m simply ying cupid!" Abel yelled back in a more yful tone.

    "Cupid?! Cupid shoots heart arrows! Yours will kill us!!"

    ''Cupid''s arrows are more deadly, though,'' he thought indifferently. ''Also, I have a better aim than Cupid since that fiend always gets it wrongs.''

    Abel frowned, staring at the furious Conan, but ignored him. Instead, his eyes shifted to Aries, who bore this nk expression.

    "Darling,e here." He cocked his head back, seeing her point at herself. "Yes, you. Come down here. Let''s y!"

 Chapter 43 To Get To Know You

    Aries gazed at Conan for help after Abel''s invitation. But even when thetterined, the two of them were powerless. In the end, Aries still joined Abel on the training ground and stood right in front of him.

    "Yes?" she raised her brows, blinking cluelessly.

    All sorts of ideas already filled her head. Why did he ask her toe down here? Would he ask her to rece the straw target and act as one? Or maybe, just be his assistant to fetch him some arrows? The more Abel stayed silent, the more negative her thoughts became.

    To her surprise, Abel shoved the bow in front of her. Aries blinked cluelessly at him with brows rising higher.

    "Shoot," he ordered nkly. "Take it."

    It took her several seconds to absorb his words, taking the arrow in confusion. "You want me to practice archery?" she asked, and he nodded, hands on his hips.

    "Me? Really?" she inquired once again, just to confirm if she heard him correctly. His brows arched, noticing the fire in her eyes.

    "Well, just give it back if you don''t want to." He shrugged, but that made her clutch at the bow tighter. She held it close to her chest, eyes studying him from head to toe.

    "I бк I''ll do it," she stammered.

    The side of his lips stretched into a grin, nodding in satisfaction. "Good!" Stepping aside to give his spot to her.

    Aries cast him a look and exhaled faintly. Surely, Abel was someone she could never read easily. The only thing that was predictable about him was his unpredictability.

    Standing on the spot he stood, Aries gazed down at the bow and string in her hand. Her eyes softened as a subtle smile appeared on her lips. It had been a while since she held a bow and arrow. She thought she would never hold these things again. So, it gave her a nostalgic feeling.

    "Do you want my help, darling?" she turned her attention back to Abel, seeing him tilt his head.

    "Yes, thank you," came out a weak reply.

    "Happily."

    Abel approached her while she ced the arrow in the string. His eyes glinted with amusement, seeing that she knew how to put the arrow in the string properly. He had this idea that she knew about archery. Well, even if she didn''t, he already nned to teach her.

    Abel stood close behind her as she took up the stance of shooting arrows. "Rx your shoulder. You''re too excited."

    "Alright." Her eyes averted, feeling his hot breaths caress her ear. The warmth of his body against her back felt like embracing her. Abel fixed her posture, pressing on her tensed shoulder until they rxed. His eyes narrowed, snaking his hand almost seductively from her shoulder to the elbow, supporting them to keep still.

    He leaned his head to her side, eyes on the target. "Release," he whispered in her ear.

    Her eyes glinted as she let go of the arrow. It traveled with enough force, but it only grazed the side of the target. Still, her breath hitched as her heart thumped loudly against her chest.

    She looked at him with eyes sparkling on instinct, causing his brows to elevate. "I grazed it!" she eximed excitedly.

    "You did. Good job." His eyes squinted as he smirked. "Again?"

    There wasn''t even the slightest hesitation when she nodded profusely. This was the first time she reacted so excitedly, like a child, satisfying Abel by this discovery.

    He beckoned a knight around the training ground to bring him more arrows. As the knight rushed to them, he kept his eye contact with her.

    "Do you like archery before?" he bent over, blinking curiously.

    "Uh, a bit." Aries slightly blushed as she gazed down.

    "Hah..." he leaned his face closer, forcing her to back away a little. "So, seducing you in bed is the wrong method, huh? How interesting. Will you fall for me if I stand over there with an apple over my head?"<sub> </sub>

    "Pardon?"

    "Or maybe just shoot it right in my face." He pointed at his charming face solemnly. "I think you will hit it if you have enough motivation."

    For a moment, Aries''s brain went nk. His expression told her he was a hundred percent serious. But how could she forget this was Abel?! Was he trying to entrap her so she wouldmit treason? Wielding a weapon in the emperor''s presence was already a crime. What more if she aimed at him?! That was an instant ticket to death row!

    "Abel, do you hate me?" she asked helplessly, while he tilted his head. "With enough practice, I can improve my precision. Why would you suggest I shoot your handsome face?" she continued with added ttery to keep her neck attached to her shoulder.

    "Huh, I thought that will make you happy." He shrugged nonchntly, peeling his eyes away from her as he set them to the knight, bringing arrows. Heid his palm open, and the knight handed him an arrow, which he passed to Aries.

    "Thank you," she expressed in a soft tone, studying his unchanging reaction. "Even if that is the case, it might kill you. Is that even worth it?" бк was he even in his right mind? That was what she actually wanted to say but held back.

    While she ced the arrow in the bow, she paused when he answered. "It is worth it. If my death makes you happy, I''ll happily die once or twice in your hands."

    "Please don''t say such a thing, Your Majesty." She cast him a cold look, thinking he was simply humoring her like usual. But there was this seriousness in his sharp eyes that made it hard to distinguish whether or not he was bluffing.

    "Why?" he asked, bending over with a smirk. "You don''t want me dead?"

    "Why would I want you dead?"

    "Because why not?"

    Aries stared at him in silence but said nothing anymore. Instead, she positioned herself in a stance, pulling the string while keeping the arrow between her fingers.

    "Doing something I used to do already makes me happy," she muttered genuinely, releasing the arrow. It only grazed the target again, watching some ripped straws fall down to the ground. Aries then turned to face him squarely, smiling from ear to ear.

    "That is more than enough. Can Ie back here again?" she inquired excitedly because this was more important to her than actually hitting the bullseye.

    His eyes narrowed, staring at the anticipation in her eyes. "You don''t have to ask my permission, darling. Come in here anytime you pleased." He raised his hand and nted it on her head. His fingertip rubbed her scalp gently.

    "It feels good," he muttered while she arched her brows. "To get to know you."

    A soft gust of wind blew past them. She held the bow with both her hands, eyes studying the faint softness beneath the fire in his eyes.

    "More," he added under his breath. "What else to know about my little darling? I''m curious. What else will make you smile like this?"

    Aries held her breath, wanting to look away but couldn''t. "What about you? What else to know about you?"

    "You''ll never want to know... me."

    ? "Try me." She lifted her chin slightly.

    The corner of his lips curled up, sensing the building tension between them. He took a step forward, eyshes fluttering ever so slowly.

    "I''m actually the type who likes quick rewards," he stated the obvious, bending over while tilting his head, hand on her cheek. She stood still. "I''ll im it now."

    Aries bit her inner lip lightly as she closed her eyes the closer his face got. But he stopped midway, staring at her shut eyes.

    "Don''t close your eyes so easily. I barely held myself back from taking out my handkerchief," he dawdled while she opened her eyes carefully. "You make me want to see you in a blindfold."

    This time, her eyes opened popped open when his lips veered to her side and nted a brief peck on her cheek.

 Chapter 44 How They Appear From Anothers Perspective

    <strong>Danger.</strong>

    Another soft gust of wind blew past Aries. She fixated her eyes on Abel as he drew his head back, smirking dangerously at her. Was he the devil? She wondered. The darkness in his eyes felt like drawing her in, hypnotizing her into a deadly trap.

    ''That is... unnecessarily warm.'' She clenched her teeth secretly, reminding herself his action wasn''t something she should dwell on. ''This is Abel, Aries. Do not forget everything is games for him. He''s bad for your heart.''

    "Ha ha... so cute," came out a darkugh. His eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, cing his pointing finger on her lips. "Disappointed it''s not here? I am too, but I''m afraid you''d get used to it and take it for granted."

    That was not it. Abel knew that was not entirely the real reason. Although he truly nned to kiss her lips until they get numb, the real reason he stopped was something deeper than temporary pleasure. It had... something to do with what she made him feel.

    Was it a good reason? Or bad? A little bit of both. But what was certain was what they were ying was something dangerous.

    Aries cleared her throat as she looked away. "I will try again," she awkwardly picked up the arrow nearby, pulling herself together.

    She was used to his changeable attitude that was just too extreme. So, she subconsciously anticipated what sort of crazy idea he woulde up with. The reason she expected nothing normal from him.

    A kiss on the cheek? Who would have thought something so simple would surprise her? But that simplicity was enough to rattle her; it took her off guard. The irony, she thought.

    Meanwhile, Abel pressed his lips into a thin line as she shifted her focus on the straw target. She wasn''t the person who wore her heart on her sleeve. But at times like this, it was amusing for him to watch her lose herposure for a bit.

    His eyes squinted into mere slits as the side of his lips stretched from ear to ear. "This time..."

    SWOosh

    "... I won, right?"

    Aries huffed, staring at the arrow embedded right in the middle of the head of the target. She looked at him with sharp eyes but then smiled.

    "You did." His expression brightened up at her honesty and being a good sport. "I didn''t expect that."

    "Just like when I didn''t expect you kissing my hand, but anyway, you hit it." He peeled his eyes away from her, setting them on the arrow. "Bullseye, nice!" he shaded his eyes with the side of his hand over his eyebrows, whistling.

    Aries pressed her lips to suppress her proud smile. "That is because you''re not breathing down my neck."

    "Oh,e on, darling! You make me think I truly have influence over you!"

    "But you do, Your Majesty." She frowned, holding the bow down, and mumbled. "If you don''t, I will not rack my brains every second of every day."

    He chortled. "So, how was the progress of the search for my next Aries? Were Conan and Dexter not any help?"

    "Your Majesty, did you give this task, knowing I will never seed?"

    "Oh no, darling. I gave it to you because I know you will definitely seed." His voice wasced with certainty. "Do you want my help as well? I am in a pretty good mood. What do you think?"<sub> </sub>

    Aries squinted her eyes, scrutinizing him thoroughly. "Then... what is your first impression of me?" she asked after making sure he was truly in the good mood to talk.

    "Nothing." He grinned, but her expression died.

    "Nothing?"

    "Yes. Nothing."

    "Was that the help you''re talking about?" she inquired in a dead tone, almost at the brink of believing he wouldn''t really help. Well, that shouldn''t be surprising since she was basically telling him ''she will leave him.''

    "It is helpful! What are you saying? Give that back to him and let''s take a walk." Abel pointed his chin towards the knight holding the arrows.

    As instructed, Aries beckoned the knight toe close. She offered a subtle smile and said, "thank you," before facing Abel.

    "Hand." Her brows rose when he offered his hand to her. "Let''s hold hands like lovers do, darling. It''s fun to tease Conan and watch him chew his handkerchief for theck of progress in the matters of his heart."

    ''What a devil,'' Aries felt sorry for Conan, ncing at the man who was digging a hole in their heads with his gaze from a distance.

    As Aries sped his hand, she muttered. "You know that Sir Conan hasn''t gotten married yet because you work him to the bone, right?"

    "And I don''t feel sorry for that. Haha! I am just as busy as him, but I still have time to flirt. He needs to learn how to manage his time!" heughed evilly, slipping his fingers in between her fingers. They then walked away slowly, holding hands, catching the attention of the very few people around.

    ? "Oh... it''s always fun to y with everyone''s head. I wonder what amusing rumor I will hear tomorrow?"

    Aries nced at his side, watching himugh. He looked so carefree, just like a true devil who wouldugh at everything.

    "Uhm, Abel?" she called before they get lost from their topicpletely. "When you say you didn''t have any first impression on me... what does that mean?"

    "Aren''t you a hard worker, darling?" he cocked his head back, eyes on her. "It means that''s the first. I usually meet people and every time, I only have two impressions. They look like they willst long, or they''re boring. But you... uh... what is it? Something between the lines... I want nothing to do with her, but I can''t also leave her behind. Maybe I am actually kind?"

    "..." She was wrong to ask him. He justplicates things even more. ''I''ll pretend I didn''t hear him,''

    Meanwhile, as Abel and Aries walked away hand in hand, Conan furrowed his brows. He fixated his eyes on both of them, tilting his head to the side.

    "That..." he whispered, seeing Aries''s side profile as she was looking at Abel. While thetter was also looking at her. They looked so cool just talking like that. As if, for once, Abel looked normal.

    "... Lady Aries, I don''t think you will find another Aries. No, I''m certain, you won''t."

    Ever since Conan started serving Abel, no one had ever matched Abel''s temperament or made him smile like that. And that was already a very long time.

    "But you will definitely seed because... he wants you to, so he will ept just anyone or anything you give him." There was a bit of sadness in his eyes, knowing what type of person Abel was.

 Chapter 45 Meow

    Abel took Aries to the pavilion in the inner garden. He pulled her to his side as she thoughtlessly approached the chair.

    "Huh?" she gazed at him as her shoulder bumped against him. "Is there a... problem?"

    His eyshes fluttered ever so slowly, casting her a side-eye. "There is only one chair."

    "One chair...?" Aries furrowed her brows, counting the chairs ced on the opposite side of the round marble table. Even though it was obvious there were two chairs, Aries counted multiple times just in case her vision was doubling.

    "There are two," she affirmed after blinking countless times. To her surprise, Abel suddenly kicked the chair away.

    "There''s only one."

    She frowned as her expression died instantly. Her head slightly throbbed as she let out a sigh. Whatever Abel wants, he gets. Whatever he said, no matter how ridiculous it was, that should be a fact.

    ''Now there''s only one chair... does he want me to stand up while he rests?'' she cast him a dead look, not looking away even when he caught her gaze. ''Well, I''ve been sitting almost the whole day. So standing for a bit won''t hurt, right?''

    Aries forced a kind smile to hide her annoyance. "Your Majesty, I know you are a gentleman, but you don''t have to worry. I can stand while apanying you."

    "Oh no, darling. That will hurt the pride of a gentleman like me. You should sit." His kind response made her narrow her eyes.

    ''What is he up to now?'' she wondered, scrutinizing that devious smirk stered on his face.

    "Please, take a seat." Abel beckoned her to sit down, marching to the chair and he pulled it for her.

    "How can I let you stand while I sit, Your Majesty? I''ll just stand."

    He frowned, cocking his head to the side. "Still, as a gentleman, I can''t. Sit."

    ''Oh, my god! Just sit!'' Aries screamed internally, feeling her stress increase every passing second. ''We wouldn''t have this dilemma if he didn''t kick that chair!''

    "Come on." Abel cocked his head on the chair while holding the backrest.

    A helpless exhale slipped past her lips. ''There''s nothing in here, right?'' she approached the chair warily, thinking there would be some glue or hidden trap on it. Aries studied it, but there was nothing amiss.

    She nced at him as she carefully sat down. Abel wriggled his brows, making her hesitate to sit down. But when she finally plopped her butt down, she frowned. She was correct. There was nothing wrong with the chair.

    "Pfft бк" Her frown worsened when he snickered. Aries looked up as he stayed behind the chair, hands over the backrest.

    He purposely made me feel anxious. This psycho...''

    "Darling, don''t you believe I am a gentleman?" he smirked yfully, pleased to see her dead expression.

    ''We had two chairs, for Pete''s sake! Did you kick that one just to prove you are a gentleman?'' was what she wanted to say, but bit her tongue from running her mouth.

    "Ahh... my legs hurt from training," came out aint with azy voice while her dead expression grew worse.

    Surely, his mood changed faster than a blink. One second, he was gloating about being a gentleman. And then the next, he wasining. He would drive her insane for sure.

    "... not only do I have to deal with paperwork, but I also need to be fit. Standing even after that should be fine..."<sub> </sub>

    ''Ignore him, Aries. Ignore him. He put this upon himself.'' She repeated those words like a spell, but her face kept distorting the more she listened to his whines. ''God... I hope the next poison I''d drink will kill me.''

    Aries expression remained stiff and the life in her eyes grew dim. He shouldn''t have offered the chair to her if he wouldin right after. Why was he tormenting her brain like this?

    ''Fine... I''d rather stand than let him torture my dying mental health.'' Another deep sigh escaped her mouth as she cocked her head back, eyesnding on his face. "Your Majesty, why don''t you sit while I..."

    SWOosh

    For a moment, her mind went nk. Abel, who was just standing behind the chair and gazing down at her, was now gone. Instead, she felt a weight on herp.

    "My darling is so kind for letting me sit on herp. No wonder I am so fond of her!" He intoned happily, sitting on herp with his arm propped against the chair. He watched her pull her head back, facing him with a dead expression.

    "Gentleman... where?" she mumbled without thinking twice because all her brain cells had already died.

    "I''m watching my weight. I am being considerate, aren''t I?"

    ? "Abel, you could''ve said you want to sit on myp."

    "Why would I do that? I am a gentleman!"

    ''Please brain, don''t leave me!'' She begged internally, watching her soul weep while covering her lips. ''Is this his revenge for everything that I had done so far?''

    Abel''s eyes squinted in delight, reading her thoughts with just from her dead countenance. "Don''t think too much, darling. I am simply... researching."

    "Researching...?"

    "Mhm! They said those who had pets always kept them on theirp. I am thinking what you will feel if I always keep you on myp."

    "Shouldn''t you be asking me that? It''ll be easier..."

    "And I can vouch it''s not that bad," he continued as if he didn''t hear herst remarks. "You''ll like it."

    "..."

    "Anyway, being a pet doesn''t feel bad, huh? I have nothing else to do aside from receiving affection while my master does all the work." Abel rocked his head, quirking a brow as he cast her a look. "What are you doing? Pet me."

    ''He is going all out today, huh?'' she blinked, eyes nk. Even so, she raised her hand and stroked his broad back. Out of irritation plus with a confused mind, Aries unintentionally pped his back.

    "Aw, that''s animal abuse." He frowned while she drew back.

    "Heh... there was dirt. I''m sorry."

    Abel shook his head as he sighed. "Poor me. I have a terrible master. I should''ve stayed on the street like a stray cat... Meow."

    ''If I did something wrong, please tell me. I will never ever do it again.'' Was what she held back from saying, listening to his nonsense with little interest. ''I should''ve pped his back harder.''

 Chapter 46 Conans Mission

    "Silence... so priceless."

    Aries breathed out, leaning back against the tub as the warm water embraced her body. She tilted her head back until her eyes were staring at the high ceiling.

    ''He really went all out today. Every second feels like I am dealing with another person.'' Her expression turned grim while revisiting her day with Abel. ''He never fails to find ways to stress me out.''

    <o>,m A snicker slipped past her mouth that soon became waves of chuckles. Her only constion for all of that was Abel had to endure watching his weight until he was trembling. Even when she pointed it out, he denied it to save his face.</o>

    "How stubborn..." Her smile faded as soon as she realize she was giggling. "... what am I doing?"

    Although Abel stressed her out, Aries didn''t realize until now that she hadn''t felt the initial fear she felt before. It could be because she was getting used to Abel. Thus, she was getting more and more rxed in hispany.

    ''I even pped his back and...'' she breathed out, closing her eyes for a moment. "What are you thinking, Aries? That he is not that bad? Ugh... I think I''m losing my mind."

    Aries ran her fingers through her emerald locks. From the outside, she and Abel looked like they were getting along really well. If she was naive, she would also think her rtionship with him was getting better. That she was loosening up around him and being herself.

    Deep down, although that was the case, she couldn''t deny that a part of her believed it was all an illusion. Abel wasn''t the type for that kind of rtionship. He may act shallow, unreasonable, and crazy most of the time, but she was aware it was all an act.

    Falling for such a cheap trick and believing he wasn''t that terrible as a person was something that could kill her. Her eyes shed with bitterness, clicking her tongue faintly.

    "Why... can''t anyone be normal?" she murmured, letting out a deep breath. "I shouldn''t be the one thinking about this. I bet, right now, if he is thinking about me, he is probably thinking about how to kill me or something."

    Aries shook her head, convincing herself she shouldn''t dwell on the good things. If the good things blind her, she wouldn''t see and think clearly. Being negative was better for her since it forced her to be even more cautious.

    "What sort of recement does he want...?" she whispered, enjoying the silence and peace while bathing. Enjoying a time alone without Abel bothering her.

    <strong>******</strong>

    "Your Majesty, you seemed to be in a good mood."

    Conan gazed at Abel''s side profile while thetter was humming while they waltzed through the hallway. Thetter was tilting his head sideways along with the soft hum, casting Conan a side-eye as he smirk.

    "I had a good day with my darling," came out a light tone, gazing ahead at the barely lit hallway. "So, of course, I am in a good mood. It is such a shame I can''t join her bath."

    "Your Majesty, do you really like Lady Aries?"

    "Of course, Conan." Abel snorted at the stupid question. "She wouldn''tst this long if she isn''t likable, don''t you think? You personally like my pet as well. I think Dexter finds her interesting, too."

    "But... don''t you want her to stay?"

    This time, Abel''s step gradually came to a halt. The space between his brows wrinkled, arching them as he cocked his head in Conan''s direction. Meanwhile, Conan already stopped before the former did.

    Conan bore an iprehensible emotion in his eyes. "Your Majesty, if you like Lady Aries, why are you giving her a reason not to stay in the empire?"

    "Conan, slow-witted as I am, but I believe I am doing the opposite."

    "Why would you give her your word that you will let her go if she found a recement?"<sub> </sub>

    "To make her happy! It''s not like there will be another Aries in this world." Abel smirked devilishly, shrugging with an air of nonchnce before he resumed in his strides.

    Conan didn''t immediately follow as he stared at the emperor''s broad back.

    "Even if that is the case, doesn''t His Majesty ns to ept whoever she presents to you? It doesn''t matter if the recement looks like her or acts like her. You already nned to ept whoever it is." Abel stopped in Conan''s remarks but didn''t turn around. "Your Majesty, don''t you still trust humans? Lady Aries is clever and wise. She isn''t like any other humans who..."

    Conan trailed off when Abel''s eyes glinted. That was his cue to shut his mouth; he was overstepping again.

    "Conan, that is the point." Abel''s tone was cold and indifferent, studying the dejected expression stered on Conan''s face. "Aries... is the only person in this world who dances well with my demons. Even so, are you saying she will ept me with all her heart? How cute of you."

    He shook his head while he chuckled. When he raised his head once again, a shallow breath slipped past his lips before he resumed in his strides.

    "I like her to an extent that I am willing to let her go." Abel waved without looking back. "Until then, I''ll have my fun with her. Don''t spoil it."

    As Abel strutted through the empty hallway, Conan stayed on his spot. All he could do was stare at Abel''s back, sighing many times.

    ''You say all that when you also wish deep in your heart that she will choose you. How can she do that if you keep scaring her away?'' He sighed for the umpteenth time. ''What a hopeless emperor. Should I help him? Maybe, if I sell her to Lady Aries, she will eventually take the bite?''

    Conan rubbed his chin, pacing back and forth in the hallway. The side of his lips curled up into a grin as his eyes lit up with determination, gazing in the direction Abel vanished to.

    "Alright, Conan. You will y cupid from now on бк ah!" he jumped when someone patted his shoulder, gazing over it only to see Dexter standing behind him. "De бк Dexter?"

    "Sir Conan, you are still as cute as ever. What do you mean y cupid?" Dexter smiled kindly, squeezing Conan''s shoulder lightly.

    "What are you doing here?"

    "Visiting Lady Aries."

    Conan frowned, wriggling his shoulder to get his hand off of him. "Marquess Vandran, I know you are not on good terms with His Majesty. But are you really trying to piss him off by speaking nonsense?"

    "My. Sir Conan, you can''t take jokes now, too?" Dexter chuckled, holding his hand behind him. "Please. I don''t n to harm Lady Aries because I like her for some obvious reason."

    "I''m telling you, I am watching you." Conan clicked his tongue while ring at the marquess. "Don''t even think of corrupting Lady Aries."

    "You can''t corrupt someone who is already corrupted in the first ce." Dexterughed, waving as he walked ahead. "Anyway, you don''t have to look at me like that, Lord Isaiah. You''re scaring me."

    Dexter cocked his head back, eyes on the figure at the end of the hallway. A smirk appeared on his face before he continued to walk away. Conan, on the other hand, turned his head on the opposite side Dexter was walking to.

    He clicked his tongue at the sight of Isaiah. "Duke, don''t you dare meddle with my ns! I''ll kill you!" Conan huffed before stomping his feet, following where Dexter left.

    Meanwhile, Isaiah, who received hatred without even speaking, watched them walk away. He blinked ever so slowly, turning his head to the window on his side.

    ''What did I do?'' he wondered.

 Chapter 47 The Cupid Playing His Role

    Aries bore a nk expression, lost for words at her current situation. She blinked, looking back at the people around the same table as her.

    ''Please don''t look at me that way. You all know I am innocent,'' she wept internally, sensing everyone''s difort inside this room where noblemen with an official role in the pce gathered. She had already heard ridiculous rumors when she started apanying Abel to his important affairs.

    But... Abel took this to another level.

    Aries let out a shallow breath when she felt a weight on her shoulder. She nced at it, seeing Abel rest his chin on it.

    ''Just... what the hell is he thinking? Why is he doing this to me?'' she wondered, suppressing her urge to throw a huge fit out of stress.

    Just moments ago, when she was about to sit in the corner бк where she usually sat бк Abel called her. It was toote to realize his devious ns. It was only when he yanked her to hisp, telling her he wanted to pet her during the meeting, did Aries realize what kind of game he was ying today.

    Now here she was. Having to endure the awkward stares and atmosphere by sitting on hisp while they talk about the current state of affairs.

    Aries helplessly turned her head to the side, to where Conan was sitting. <strong>''Sir Conan, help... huh?''</strong> she frowned when Conan raised both his thumbs as if he was cheering her.

    ''Is our alliance already marked by betrayal?'' her thoughts were disrupted as she flinched when Abel caressed her arms with the back of his hand.

    "Ahem! I mean, what I was saying..." one nobleman cleared his throat, looking away from the end of the table where Abel and Aries were.

    Abel leaned the side of his head against her, listening to the voice filling the room. He was the only one who wasn''t affected by this promiscuous disy of affection. His chin was still resting on her shoulder, arching a brow as he sniffed.

    "Darling, did you change your perfume?" he whispered in her ear, snapping his eyes at her. But his sudden interruption also distracted the person talking.

    "Don''t mind me. Continue."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, feeling sorry for everyone. But she didn''t have any power to stop this situation from unfolding. So, while the nobleman awkwardly resumed his reading, she leaned to her side and whispered back.

    "Sir Conan sent me the perfume you..." she trailed off upon noticing Abel''s confused expression. "... uh, yes."

    "Did he tell you it was from me?"

    "Well..."

    "How disappointing. I thought you already know my preferences by now." Abel smirked as she lowered her eyes. "No wonder you smell like human manure. Conan''s taste is just the worst."

    "..."

    Her expression died as she cast him a disdainful look before ring daggers at Conan. The only reason she used this strong perfume was that Conan said it came from Abel! She hated the strong odor. Not that the scent was bad, but it was too strong to her taste. She still sprayed it on her to gain some browny points.

    Now, Abel was saying she smell like human manure? Did she torture her nose just to get insulted? What was Conan doing? Sabotaging her?

    She had noticed it for the past two days. Conan was acting very strange and spewing nonsense.

    ''Is he pushing me off the cliff?'' she wondered, narrowing her eyes at Conan. ''I''ll surely interrogate himter. I''ll push him to his death before he does.''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <o>,m The meeting ended awkwardly since Abel shamelessly teased Aries. He wouldugh in the middle of the meeting but then cast them a deadly look, telling them not to waste his time whenever they stop talking.</o>

    Despite that, Abel managed to make a conclusion in the end, as if he was listening attentively throughout. It was almost amazing how he didn''t fail to notice even the slightest detail.

    "Sir Conan..." Aries ground her teeth, walking behind Abel and Isaiah with Conan in the hallway back to the emperor''s office. "... have you betrayed me already?"<sub> </sub>

    Conan nced at Abel''s back, who was talking to Isaiah side by side. When he was certain the two were invested in their conversation, he cast her an apologetic look.

    "Lady Aries, what are you saying? I will never betray you...!" came out a whisper as he leaned to her side.

    "Then why are you letting his Majesty drag me around?" her eyes snapped, keeping her voice only above a whisper. "Why are you cheering on me earlier?"

    "That is because that''s the only thing I can do."

    "Sir Conan, remember when you nagged His Majesty from getting distracted just a week ago? Isn''t the situation also a distraction for everyone?" Aries instigated while clicking her tongue. "Come clean now. What are you trying to do, Sir Conan? If you haven''t betrayed your only ally, why are you acting very strange now?"

    Conan sported a conflicted look, sighing heavily, seeing that his answer would decide for this alliance. It was so hard to earn Aries'' trust. She wouldn''t trust him again if he gave her an unsatisfactory answer.

    "Thing is..."

    He trailed off when Abel suddenly stopped in his steps. Thetter looked back, eyebrow raised.

    "Hmm? Why are the two of you buzzing like bugs there?" he asked, tilting his head to the side. Aries and Conan slowly turned their heads at him, bearing the sameplicated expression on their expression. Isaiah also raised his brows, seeing their expression.

    "Ahh..." Conan awkwardlyugh as he pped. "I''m just telling Lady Aries that I''ll let Your Majesty know about her request!"

    "Request?" Abel furrowed his brows while Aries blinked, looking at Conan in confusion.

    "What request?"

    "Yes! Didn''t you say you want to go out of the pce and have a date with His Majesty?" Conan eximed, giving her a knowing look. "Right? Right?"

    ''This little...!''

    "My darling wants to go out of the pce?" Aries clenched her teeth secretly, promising she would make Conan pay next time. She secretly red daggers at Conan while thetter avoided her eyes.

    "Your Majesty, it''s actually... just.. ha ha..." To her surprise, Abel didn''t seem angry about it.

    "Hmph... sure. Let''s do it."

    "What?"

    Abel cast her a look full of disdain. "Date," he said. "Didn''t you say you want to have a date with me?"

    "Uh... aren''t you busy...?"

    "Conan, am I busy?" his eyes veered at the enthusiastic Conan.

    "No! His Majesty has all the time in the world! Also, this humble aide will cover for you!"

    Her brows could not help but twitch, seeing Conan''s energy. He surely nned this. Whatever his intention was, Aries somehow got the gist of it.

    ''I''ll make him pay someday...'' she pledge as invisible fire engulfed her. Meanwhile, Conan didn''t even dare look back at Aries as he was sweating buckets from the murderous intent she was sending him.

    ''I''m sorry, Lady Aries. The cupid is simply doing his job.''

 Chapter 48 He Wants To Be The Grandfather

    "You know it''s not my idea," Aries mumbled, sitting in front of Abel on the steed. They weren''t moving fast as they just left the imperial pce.

    "Well, darling. It''s not my fault that you keep on falling in Conan''s scheme." The side of his lips stretched into a devious grin, gazing down at her. "And because of that, I have a reason to skip my work and spend it with you. It''s a win for me."

    Aries wasn''t even concealing herck of enthusiasm for this date. Why would she? Abel never failed to find new ways how to get into her head. She could only anticipate what sort of surprise he had in store for her.

    "He doesn''t need to rub it on my face," she blurted out.

    "Internal dialogues should be kept in your head, darling." His grin stretched even broader until his eyes squinted into mere slits when her eyes dted in horror. "Oh, don''t worry. I don''t mind listening to your rumblings. Do you want to badmouth Conan? I can tell you one or two things to put him under your thumb."

    She looked at him, bouncing at every step of the steed. "What''s the catch?" she asked without beating around the bush, knowing he wouldn''t offer such a tempting offer with nothing in return.

    "A second date." His face brightened up, wriggling his brows yfully.

    ''Can I refuse?'' she wondered while staring at him dead in the eye. ''On second thought, it''s not really a bad idea. I''m stuck with him, no matter what. So it didn''t really matter since enduring another day with him is just another day in Haimirich.''

    "Did you make up your mind?" he inquired, seeing that her eyes lit with life.

    Aries drew closer to him to lend him an ear. "Can I negotiate?" she inquired.

    "About?"

    "Our second date."

    "Depends on your condition." Her expression grew depressed. In the end, it was still up to him to decide, huh?

    She cleared her throat, only having one condition in mind. "On our second date, please don''t take me to somewhere dangerous."

    "Can you, perhaps, read my mind?" he looked at her, wide-eyed, while her entire face distorted.

    ''So, he is truly thinking of taking me to somewhere dangerous?!'' she gasped internally. Surely, she couldn''t lower her guard around him. There was always a catch.

    "Darling, you are so old fashion." He purred and sighed. "Sane is boring. Dates should be... memorable. It is only worth remembering if it involves life and death."

    "Your Majesty, simple things can also be enjoyable and memorable as well."

    "Like?"

    "Like... this." Aries blinked twice while his brows furrowed. "We can enjoy this ride with just the two of us. I mean, I can tell my grandchildren things like, ''I can still remember the time I rode on the horse with a handsome man,'' or something."

    "Grandchildren?" Abel arched a brow while staring at her.

    "Yes. I mean, the point here is..."

    "Who is the grandfather?" he asked, rendering her speechless. Despite that, Aries sported a forced smile.

    "That''s not the point, Abel. What I''m saying is --"<sub> </sub>

    "How can you have grandchildren without having children? To have children, you need a man''s semen. It''s not like you can get pregnant just by talking your way out." He shrugged, stuck in that context that wasn''t even her point. "So, who is the grandfather?"

    "..." How was she still surprised? Abel was talented at diverting a subject to something else that wasn''t entirely important. How was she supposed to answer that now? She hadn''t even fallen in love with someone, and Aries was now a tyrant''s pet. A pet! Not even a lover!

    Love was already out of sight, much less having a family. She barely has freedom, too.

    Abel remained quiet as his eyes never left her. He was waiting for an answer; seriously waiting for an answer. His eyes narrowed when she was just staring at him nkly.

    ''What is he waiting...?'' she wondered as this became a tough question now. His solemn stare was slowly putting pressure on her, making her open and close her mouth.

    "I will grow old alone and lonely," came out a helpless mumble.

    Abel furrowed his brows before rocking his head. "Good. Stay single forever."

    "It''s not like I have a choice." Aries looked away, hoping that went past his ear. It didn''t. Abel heard her loud and clear, but he simply raised a brow.

    He bent over to her shoulder, casting her a side-eye. "Of course, you have a choice, darling. Me." He pressed his lips into a thin line, blinking countless times to charm her. But it didn''t work.

    Abel ended up sulking as he rested his chin on her shoulder. Instead of focusing on maneuvering the horse, he let it be. Meanwhile, Aries tried to ignore him as much as possible, eyes at the empty wide street of the capital.

    The imperial pce was situated at a distance from the capital. So heading to the heart of the empire would take them some time.

    Silence enveloped the two of them as neither of them talked. Abel and Aries gazed ahead, letting the horse move at its own pace as if they all had the time in the world to waste.

    "You''re right." She nced at him when he broke his silence. "Simple things aren''t that bad."

    "Huh?"

    His long and thick eyshes fluttered ever so slowly, moving his head so that his lean cheek was on her shoulder. He stared at her for a moment, watching her brows raise.

    "I think I can tell my grandchildren things like, ''I can still remember the time I rode on the same horse with a beautiful maiden''." A charming smirk appeared on his face. "And then add, ''your grandmother is such a piece of work, but look, everything worked out.''"

    "What?" she needed a minute to make sure she heard him correctly. But Abel wasn''t that generous to let her question her hearing.

    "Although I agreed, simple things aren''t bad. They weren''t as good as extreme things." He grinned evilly before he pulled the reins lightly, squeezing its sides with his calves to get the horse moving.

    Before she could react, the horse galloped away. The sudden shift in their speed forced her to cling to him to avoid herself from falling.

    His evil grin remained. "See? Extreme is better," he uttered proudly since she had no other choice but to cling to him. "Darling! Just look ahead and enjoy life with me, will you? Stop acting like a little girl!" he eximed as they galloped, making her peek ahead.

    It was not like she was afraid of riding, but she nearly fell over because he caught her off guard. But the sight ahead and the harsh wind they were going against were liberating in a way.

    Still clinging on to him, Aries smiled. "I am a little girl. And I think extreme isn''t that bad too," she whispered. Little did she know, Abel also smiled when he nced down at her.

 Chapter 49 The Closer They Get, The Farther They Were.

    "Aries."

    Aries turned her head, only to jump back with the horrendous mask in front of her. She patted her chest, gritting her teeth when Abel slid the mask to the side and smirked evilly.

    "Goodness..." she clutched her hand, suppressing the urge to smack him just once. "... you''d be the death of me," she blurted out.

    "That''s fine with me." Heughed, checking the horrendous mask in his hand. "It''s not a bad one. We should get two. One for me and you. We''ll scare the living hell out of Conan. What do you think?"

    Abel quirked a brow, studying her nk expression. It was safe to say that he was enjoying this, while thetter was akin to a chaperon. Either way, Abel was having fun. That was more important.

    "Say." Aries cleared her throat, toeing closer to him until they were shoulder to shoulder. "You''re a little annoyed by Sir Conan, right?"

    Abel looked at her with a slight surprise. "Darling, just because I appreciate his efforts for this idea, doesn''t necessarily mean I agree with his methods. I dislike it when others think they can decide for me." She held her breath upon noticing the glint that flickered across his eyes.

    He wasn''t angry, that was for sure. But Aries instantly recognized that glint in his eyes. He felt insulted. For a person who experienced all sorts of insult and shame, a slight pang struck her chest at the sight of it.

    "Please don''t kill Sir Conan." She grinned, diverting the subject to ''save'' Conan. "Anyway, are you sure you want that mask?"

    "Why? You think it''s horrific?"

    "Well, of course not..."

    "Yes or no?"

    "Uhm..." Aries tried so hard to keep her cool, but this game he had been doing was giving her a headache. He just kept raising questions and making it feel like it was a troublesome question. At this point, she was done.

    "Yes. It''s horrific," came out a dead voice, embracing her fate just like that. To something she wasn''t surprised about was his great reaction.

    "Great! We''ll take it!" Abel tossed a few silver coins to the merchant, signaling him two masks. When the merchant passed the smaller mask, Abel faced Aries.

    "Do you want to wear it?" He looked around, seeing that most people were holding one or wearing one. A scene when the annual festival was starting its week-long celebration.

    "Hmm! That''s why you bought them, right?" she blinked, looking adorable as she looked up at him. She didn''t mean, though. But for Abel, who was staring down at her, this was the first time she looked at him without calcting in her mind.

    Abel narrowed his eyes and smirked. "Let me tie it on you." He stepped forward, holding the drawstrings, then tied the mask around her head. But instead of concealing her face, he tied it on top of her head. He then tilted it a bit, causing it to slide to her side lightly.

    p "Huh?" Aries titled her head to the side, a bit confused. Why did he tie it ''incorrectly?''</anda>

    "Don''t put on the mask. I might lose you."<sub> </sub>

    "Oh..." she rocked her head lightly. Not that she already nned to escape; she couldn''t underestimate this man. Aries watched Abel tie the mask around his head, cing it on the side slightly. Just like hers.

    "This is better." The side of his lips curled up charmingly, winking to add some charm points.

    ''It''s unfair to have a terrible personality and a handsome face.'' She sighed, mentally shaking her head.

    "So, what now?" Abel inquired with his hands on his hips. They just arrived in the za and this stall was the first one they approached. Neither had experience in dating properly.

    It was obvious why dating was never been Abel''s problem. He was the emperor. He could have a harem if he so pleased.

    What about Aries? Unfortunately, she was picky. What she desired was something different from the love she usually received from the citizens of Rikhill.

    "How about... a walk?" Aries suggested, grazing her chin. "Talk and walk? I''ve never been out of the pce, so a walk while looking around isn''t bad."

    "Then a walk it is." A smile dominated his face while he raised a palm. "Hand. This date isn''t just about you, darling. We walk just as you pleased, but we hold hands. That''s my condition."

    "Abel, do you always do things with something in return in mind?" she scrunched her nose up, but still sped his hand before they walked.

    "Of course. If there''s no benefit from it, then there''s no reason for me to exert effort." He shrugged while she frowned.

    "Doing things and expecting nothing in return is the main reason to choose it." She pouted, muffling her reply. But he heard her loud and clear, so Aries just continued her argument.

    "Your Majesty, I mean, Abel. Sometimes, it''s good to receive something from someone because they appreciate and value your deed from the bottom of their heart. Not because they had to."

    "Darling, you are quite cute." He rubbed his knuckles against her cheek lightly. "But no thanks. You know I''m not as patient as you think I am."

    Aries sighed and studied his side profile as he looked ahead. For reasons unknown, she noticed Abel was closed off on most things. That was what she had felt since the beginning. She was so close to him and sometimes, she would legitimately think she was getting too close. But somehow, she also felt he was getting farther.

    The concept of the closer he felt, the more distant he was. This was something she only felt around Abel. It wasn''t a good feeling, but also not bad. It was simply strange if she put it.

    Aries squeezed his hand to get his attention, smiling subtly at him. "Better?" she asked, making the space between his brows wrinkle.

    How did she know? He wondered. How did she figure out he disliked the crowd?

    His eyes softened for a split second. "Better." He squeezed her hand lightly. "So, what is Princess Aries like?"

 Chapter 50 The Story He Never Told Except Her

    Princess Aries Aime Heathcliffe. Beautiful, smart, and humble. A well-loved princess with a humble personality. She was someone who was often involved in charity works, involved in politics, and also handled high society well.

    She was a little bit of everything. The favorite princess.

    Ironically, that wasn''t the reason many loved Aries. The real reason she was quite famous was that she had broken boundaries between aristocracy andmon people. She fought alongside the powerless, became their voice, and stood beside them.

    That was what Aries was like.

    But there was also one thing Aries was infamous for. That was her sharp tongue to men proposing to her. For a favorite princess such as Aries, marriage proposals from local nobles and from other countries flooded her. But because of her pride and her awareness of the men''s intention, she became vignt to all the men who showed an interest in her.

    That was when she met the crown prince of the Maganti Empire. That man, who was like any other noblemen, showed interest in Aries. But unlike others, the crown prince got close to her as a friend. Rejecting a friend''s confession was hard for her, but she didn''t think this ''friend'' would make her life a living hell.

    Her princess life was a roller coaster ride. Her reputation was a good mix of good and bad. The beauty that she was also well known about had be her curse. The curse of being loved by everyone... resulting in the mass murder of her people.

    What did people like about her? What do men see in her to be a subject of lust? If she knew things would happen like that, she would''ve epted that particr marriage proposal instead of being stubborn. If only she was wiser, she wouldn''t mind sacrificing her happiness and married voluntarily.

    Aries let out a deep sigh while staring down at the pavement. Abe''s question reminded her of the ''old'' Aries. Someone who was carefree and full of positivity. She couldn''t return to being that Aries. So what''s the point of asking her that?

    She snapped her eyes when she felt a squeeze in her hand. She turned her head at Abel, only to see him smirk.

    "Better?" he asked with that cocky smirk, but somehow, that made her smile.

    "Better." She nodded, pressing her lips into a thin line as she took a deep breath. "Princess Aries is anything but good. She has too much pride in her, it''s an insult that ''marriage'' is a necessity for her. She loved her people, and they loved her in return. But... I hoped they didn''t love me that much."

    "Huh? Why?"

    Aries smiled bitterly as she cast him a quick side-eye. "If they didn''t, they won''t fight for me. If they didn''t fight for me, they wouldn''t have to meet their demise. I''d rather get betrayed by them than know they all died because of me."

    "That''s strange..." Abel muttered, looking ahead at the busy street while they strolled. To him, he wasn''t well loved in the past. He wasn''t like this in the beginning, but the people''s betrayal shaped the ice around his heart.

    In his case, he never had people fighting for him because they loved him. He thought things would be different if people chose him instead of condemning his existence. In other words, he couldn''t rte to her entirely.

    Their situation was theplete opposite. One was loved by all, the other one was condemned. And yet, both were equally unhappy with their experience.

    "How about you, Abel?" he raised a brow when she looked at him warmly. "What was Prince Abel like?"

    ''Prince Abel? Right...'' He took several seconds to think about what this ''prince'' was like before bing the emperor.

    "He was nothing." He smiled brightly while her brows furrowed. "Darling, I was the emperor ever since I was born."

    A frown dominated her face, perceiving his words as another boast. "You mean you''ve been the emperor ever since you''re an infant?" she asked,ced with sarcasm, but he nodded.

    "Abel Bloodworth had been the emperor for a long time. That''s why I can do my job even with my eyes closed. It''s just too easy filled with recurring events; it''s boring." Abel shrugged nonchntly, leaving her in awe of his ''confidence'' in lying. But he wasn''t.<sub> </sub>

    What he said was true and nothing but the truth. She just couldn''t understand it, since she didn''t know.

    Abel hummed as he cast her a side-eye, noticing the dismay and doubt in her eyes. "But I can tell you about this Abel."

    "Who?"

    "Abel." His brows rose, while a yful grin stered across his face. "The only son of this small family. He had three sisters; they''re all lunatics. I was never close to them... or I was close with the sister that came after me."

    Aries listened to him with a furrowed brow. She had learned the history of Haimirich and the royal family. If she remembered correctly, Abel was an only child. Apparently, the royal family only produced one child every generation, like a curse. Conan and Aries hadn''t tackled that entirely because they were distracted by plotting to find her recement.

    "Our family is small and strange. We weren''t the family who wouldugh during dinners; I never recalled a dinner where we spoke a word. You can say we were like strangers living under the same roof," he continued despite that she was doubting his story. "But one day, everything changed when a person came into our house. That man... was the only human I respected."

    "Why do you always talk as if you''re not human?" she murmured, still listening to his story even though she knew it was a ''made up'' story. But there was this part of her who thought he wasn''t lyingpletely.

    Abelughed. "Because I''m not," he replied yfully, while she frowned. "Anyway, that man was my first friend. He was also the reason my sister left home."

    "They eloped?"

    "No. She went out to find him because he promised he would return. He didn''t."

    "And then...?"

    "She also didn''t return." He answered in a matter-of-fact. "Last time I heard, she married a good-for-nothing man. And then the youngest also ran away from home. She was merely an infant when she eloped with a man."

    "Isn''t that kidnapping?" Her expression died the more she listened.

    "Well, actually, darling, it was my little sister''s idea. The poor man had no choice but to take that child."

    "Your story only made sense in the first half."

    Heughed, knowing this story was hard to believe, so he was telling her. "And then me. I went out to see the world. You remembered that man I was talking about? He inspired me to see how beautiful the world was. Unfortunately, not everyone was like him. I didn''t see the beauty of this world, but what I did see is how rotten it was."

    For reasons unknown, her heart clenched upon hearing thatst remark. Although Abel''s tone was light, there was just something in his words that felt real.

    "Knowing my other sister, she probably stayed in that house. With her personality, she couldn''t be bothered. She likes ying god," he continued, ending the short story of the family he had in the past.

    "Abel, where did you borrow this story?" she inquired which made him grin.

    "From Abel." His eyes squinted into mere slits as he smiled brightly. "The first emperor of Haimirich."

 Chapter 51 A Once-In-A-Lifetime Opportunity

    Aries and Abel continued to stroll the capital. They didn''t dwell on the topics they already talked about because she thought he wasn''t being serious. Hence, they diverted their attention by checking out the stalls.

    "Wow..." she awed while looking around. Abel might be a tyrant who ruled with an iron fist. However, one thing that Aries couldn''t deny was he was a great emperor. The capital was a metropolis that only a prosperous country would look like.

    Moreover, the people around were full of smiles, as if they had no worries. She expected everyone would live in fear, but it was theplete opposite. That only strengthened the more they strolled in the capital. There was no doubt. Abel was good as an emperor.

    As she ogled at the prospering capital, Aries sniffed. The scent instantly caused her mouth to water as her eyes followed where the aromatic scent came from. Her eyesnded on one stand.

    "Skewers..." she whispered and turned to Abel.

    Abel quirked a brow, seeing how her eyes sparkled. She wanted to buy some street foods but was holding back on saying it.

    "Here." He tossed a coin to her, which she caught on instinct. "Buy yourself some. You look pathetic, darling."

    "Hehe... do you want one?"

    "No."

    "Then we should --"

    "I''ll stay here." He shrugged indifferently. "Darling, we''ve been walking nonstop. I would like to rest for a while."

    "Ohh..." Aries rocked her head, holding the coins close to her chest. "Then I wille back?"

    "Mhm... sure."

    For a moment, Aries narrowed her eyes suspiciously. But knowing he was just being whiny, she didn''t think much about it. So, Aries let his hand go and jogged across the street.

    Meanwhile, Abel stood in the same spot, eyes on her back. The passersby didn''t matter to him, as his focus was on her. She looked so excited as she was buying chicken skewers.

    "Mhm..." he shoved his hands inside his pockets, tilting his head from one side to the other. "How stunning. No wonder she captures anyone''s heart."

    From afar, Aries was someone who looked untouchable. Even men who were passing by would look at her twice. No wonder a lot of men desired her. But that wasn''t what he was focusing on. His eyes were on the huge smile on her face as if she hadpletely forgotten her circumstance.

    ''I like her to the extent of letting her go,'' he whispered the same words he uttered to Conan. Abel gazed up, and his eyes softened. No one knew what a person like him was thinking about at this moment. But whatever it was, it brought a little sadness into his eyes.

    It was just for a split second, but there was no doubt. His eyes bore distance and mncholy.

    *

    "Careful. It''s still hot!"

    "Yes, yes. Thank you." Aries grinned at the merchant, who was reminding her to take it easy. As she turned around to where she left Abel, her brows instantly furrowed.

    "Huh? Where did he go?" she murmured, looking around to find where Abel was. It took her a minute before she froze.<sub> </sub>

    He was gone.

    Her heart suddenly thumped against her ribcage as panic swelled up in her chest. Where did he go? Aries picked up her pace to look for him, still holding the two chicken skewers.

    "Abel?" she called, bumping into a stranger. "I''m sorry, I''m sorry." She apologized without stopping in her tracks before continuing.

    He said he would stay there. Did something happen while she wasn''t looking? An assassin? Right... she stopped as herplexion grew pale.

    Abel was someone who often faced threats. Even in the pce, people kept serving him poison. So a stroll in the capital with no guards was Abel putting himself in danger.

    ''How can I forget that?'' she gripped the chicken skewers tightly, feeling guilty about it. If something terrible happened, then she would face a terrible fate. But that thought was short-lived.

    ''Wait...'' her eyes dted as she looked around. ''... since he is gone, I should escape.''

    Abel was gone and there were no guards with them. Even if there were hidden knights following them, their top priority was Abel''s safety. If she ran away now, it would be toote if people came after her.

    ''I should... run away... there''s no other chance if I didn''t do this now,'' Aries whispered in her head, standing in that spot while people kept passing by until they looked like they were a blur.

    It was the perfect opportunity to turn her life around. Aries knew that. This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. She should grab it.

    She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. When she opened them, her eyes flickered with determination, and smiled. She nced in the direction Abel was standing on previously, huffing, before turning her back against it.

    "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," she murmured as she walked away. "I will not let go of this golden opportunity. Never... in my life... change your life, Aries..."

    The greater the distance, Aries kept on mumbling to herself. It didn''t matter if she had nothing with her but the chicken skewers. She arrived in Haimirich with nothing on her. So, it was better to leave with nothing as well.

    But just as she took ten heavy steps, Aries stopped. "Is this his way of telling me he was letting me go?" she whispered, gazing down. "We were fine until moments ago, though."

    Maybe because she had been with Abel almost every day, she got a gist of Abel''s personality. Sure. He was troublesome to deal with. Abel... he might be someone who never lied and uttered whatever the hell he wanted, but he was also someone who never spoke what was in his heart directly.

    It was a strangebination of personality, but he was something who overplicated things because he didn''t want to spell it out himself.

    "What a selfish person," she whispered, grinding her teeth lightly. "Butбн why do I feel abandoned?"

    It wasn''t the luxurious life or the fear that was instilled in her.

    It was her.

    The problem was Aries.

    She didn''t realize until now that Abelбн had be a part of her world already. And this situation didn''t sit well with her, just as she expected.

    "I hate him," she whispered as she hung her head low.

 Chapter 52 He Hoped She Left And She Hope She Can

    Night fell and yet the people around the heart of the capital didn''t decrease. If anything, the night became even livelier. But the festive atmosphere in the air didn''t faze Abel.

    Abel stood in the corner, leaning against an establishment with his arms crossed. He had been there for hours now, eyes on the particr bench where Aries was sitting down.

    ''Why don''t you leave?'' he wondered internally.

    He had witnessed her panic when she realized he left her. He had also seen her walk away as if she had already realized the opportunity he opened for her. But to his surprise, Aries returned and sat down on the bench.

    She stayed there, near where he left for hours now. She didn''t move a muscle even when the night fell and the wave of people changed.

    "She is so foolish to dare and get attached," he murmured, looking up when a drop of waternded on him. The night sky was being smothered by thick clouds, indicating it would start pouring soon.

    He opened his palm as the thin rainfall patterned against his shoulders. The people around also picked up their pace, running to find a shade from the rain that washed down the festive atmosphere. Merchants also set up their protective gears in a hurry.

    In a blink of an eye, the lively surrounding was reced with panic as everyone prepared for the rain. But for two people, Aries and Abel didn''t move a muscle. His eyes remained on the figure sitting on the bench, while she stayed there despite the rain growing stronger.

    Even when it poured and drenched the two of them, they did nothing.

    "She''s so stubborn," he whispered and took a step forth when he couldn''t take it anymore. Abel approached her and stopped in front of the bench.

    Squatting down, he rested his arms on his thigh, looking up at her. "Why are you still here?" he asked, watching her raise her head slightly.

    "Why did youe back??" she answered his question with a question, unfazed by the rain drenching them. "Hmm?"

    "Same reason as yours." He shrugged, keeping it vague like usual.

    "Then my answer is the same," she whispered, handing out the chicken skewers to him. "It had gone cold and now... wet. But I''m hungry."

    Abel nced at the chicken skewers in her hand, watching the sauce get washed down to her hand from the rain. He slowly peeled his eyes away from her hand to her emerald orbs. Those eyes that always bore rity from the start until this very moment.

    A pair of eyes that always appear decisive and already knew what she wanted. Oh, how he longed to have those eyes looked at him with yearning. Not this kind of... sadness.

    "You should''ve left, Aries," he muttered, rising from his squatting position. "You are such a foolish woman."

    Abel offered his hand for her to sp, cocking his head when she nced up at him. But when Aries sped his hand, he pulled her up without blinking. The chicken skewer fell ever so slowly, making a light sound along with the rain and his voice.

    "It''s annoying... how you drive me to the corner."<sub> </sub>

    His arms sprawled towards her, burying his hands in her emerald locks. He tilted his head, eyes narrowing dangerously as he imed her lips.

    His abrupt action caused her eyes to dte before she closed her eyes ever so slowly. The firm hands that pulled her head to him felt gentle and the taste in her mouth... wasn''t the usual taste.

    The faint taste of tobo and wine was gone, reced by a tang of mint. His tongue slipped in between her lips, exploring her mouth thoroughly. He felt warm. Of all the skinship they both shared, this kiss was what they would consider their first.

    His first time kissing someone with a burning passion, and her first time responding to a kiss that wasn''t forced.

    And yet, although it was too sweet for their taste, setting their body aze that was being cooled down by the rain. A distinct bitterness lingered in their mouth. The bitterness that came straight from their hearts.

    Abel breathed out, forehead resting against her forehead, hands cupping her jaw. "I told you to never close your eyes or respond," he uttered under his breath, water dripping from the apex of his nose as it was pouring heavily.

    "Why can''t I?" she whispered, looking up at him. "It''s just a kiss, Abel. It is not like it is something new for you."

    That question naturally left her lips without calction. She didn''t know where she found this courage to speak with no fear of pressing a nerve. But that didn''t matter to her. Aries... just wanted to know.

    What game was he ying, or was he still ying? She wanted to know what exactly he wanted from her. Her lips? Her body? Her death? Life? Just what was it? Because right now, everything was a blur to her. It was very unlike when she was in Maganti Empire where everything was clear. And very unlike her first few months in Haimirich Empire.

    The rity was distorted, leaving her with myriads of question marks. She wouldn''t know if he wouldn''t tell her that.

    "But it is your first time." He pointed out, making her chuckle briefly.

    "It''s definitely not..."

    "First, I mean, it''s your first time responding voluntarily." He caught her, making her hold her breath. "Aries, darling, you will be the death of me."

    "I''m fine with that."

    Abel smirked, leaning closer, and whispered into her mouth. "Me too. I''m fine with that." And once again, he imed her lips to dominate, monopolize her.

    As he did, she carefully let go of the other chicken skewers. It barely made a sound as itnded on the damped ground, and she wrapped her limb around him. She pressed her lips against his, standing on her toes while he wrapped an arm around her hips.

    Under the pouring rain, where everyone else was busy finding a shade, the two of them shared a passionate kiss as if the world didn''t matter.

    Just Aries and Abel, the real Aries and Abel, and their kiss speaking the words that never left their lips.

 Chapter 53 That Wasnt The Reason

    Aries slowly opened her eyes as Abel drew his head back, breaking the kiss after a long time. His eyes were brooding, wiping her lips with his thumb.

    "Your Majesty!" Abel didn''t look away from her, even when he heard Conan''s voice from the side. "We prepared a carriage for you and Lady Aries when we noticed the weather change."

    Abel nced at Conan for a moment while he took off his coat. When his eyesnded on her again, he draped his coat around her shoulders.

    "I can almost see everything," he uttered in a low tone, eyes on her. "Anyone who dares look at her will lose their sight instantly."

    Her brows elevated, hiding in the huge coat covering her. She nced at Conan''s entourage and saw them all looking away. When she returned her gaze to Abel, the distance beneath his eyes returned. It was as though he didn''t kiss her as if he wanted to swallow her just moments ago.

    ''Just how fickle could he be?'' she wondered, arching a brow when he offered a hand.

    "Let''s go, darling. You''ll catch a cold at this rate."

    "Oh..." she didn''t think about that.

    Aries reached for his hand, and as soon as he wrapped his fingers around her hand, Abel strutted away. With her hand under his grip, while clipping the coat with the other, Aries gazed up at him.

    All she could see was his back. But somehow, she felt intimidated. Abel surely was the type of person who would make one think he was unreachable just by looking at him. But that didn''t matter to her.

    "Wai --" Aries nearly tripped as he picked up his pace with those long legs he had. "Wait... too fast..."

    She snapped her brows up when Abel nced over his shoulder and slowed down. Aries bit her inner lower lip. He listened. A subtle smile appeared on her lips, following Abel to the carriage Conan brought with them.

    She blinked twice upon seeing that in carriage. Surely Conan was always quick. He didn''t bring the royal carriage to garner the attention of people.

    "Go in." Abel opened the door for her, cocking his head. "Make haste. You''ll catch a cold."

    "You shouldn''t have left if a cold bothers you," she mumbled while taking up the step up, holding his hand as she hitched inside.

    To her surprise, as soon as she sat down inside the carriage, Abel closed the door while he was outside. Staring at him through the window, she tilted her head to the side.

    "Aren''t you going toe in?" she asked cluelessly.

    "Do you want me to?" he inquired in a knowing tone. "You know what it means if I stayed inside with you, right? I think I already made what I want very obvious."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, nting her hands on the sill. "Abel, I am asking this not because I am asking for it, but you also know... you can get what you want. Are you doing this because you don''t want to force me?"

    "Obviously." He quirked a brow, running a hand through his damped hair.<sub> </sub>

    "Why?" she asked almost immediately. "Why don''t you want to force me?"

    "Because you''re used to it?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Since you''re so used to people forcing themselves into you, it won''t be fun anymore, darling." Abel simply cast her a quick look before jerking his chin. "Close the window. The wind is cold."

    With that being said, Aries watched him approach the approaching Conan with some knights. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, sliding the window closed before covering it with the curtain.

    "It won''t be fun anymore, huh?" she murmured, resting her back against the soft backrest of the carriage. "How can he lie with a straight face?"

    Aries fidgeted her fingers on herp, eyes on them. This day wasn''t like any other day. At some point, she genuinely forgot Abel was a tyrant who would kill anyone without conscience. It wasn''t what she expected.

    She touched her lips, still feeling the lingering heat he left. "What was that about earlier?" she wondered, thinking that his kiss earlier wasn''t the same as his previous one.

    He was hungry. That was what she felt through his kiss. Hungry for sex? Aries was unsure. But the kiss was definitely different. It felt like it was deeper than just sensual intention.

    Aries nced at the curtain as soon as the carriage started moving. It was pouring heavily and there was only one carriage. Did that mean Abel rode his steed under this pour just because he didn''t want to touch her against her will?

    "He should just continue to be a rotten piece of garbage," she whispered and exhaled. "If he is just a terrible person, it is easy for me."

    Her eyes softened at the thought. Why did she stay and waited for him toe back? In her mind, she already had an excuse.

    She hadn''t found a recement yet.

    Leaving Abel with no one to y with just didn''t sit right with her. But was that actually the reason? Aries wanted to believe that was the reason. That it was better to leave Abel if she was certain there was another Aries to indulge with him. In that case, Abel would truly forget about her.

    It was a logical reason she made up in her mind. Deep down, Aries was certain that wasn''t it, though. But she still wanted to believe that was the reason.

    "In any case..." she nced up and let out a sigh for the umpteenth time. "... I think I already know what kind of Aries he is looking for."

    "Ahбн I think I will catch not just cold this time," came out a whisper, feeling a slight headache and her breathing grew heavier. "The poison is ruining my body as well."

    Aries closed her eyes, already aware she would run a fever after showering in the pouring rain. Her head felt heavy and the slight bounce in the carriage wasn''t helping.

    ''I should''ve asked him to join me inside,'' was herst thoughts before sumbing to the darkness, copsing to her side.

 Chapter 54 Make It Quick

    Abel rode his steed as they returned to the pce. As they did, he furrowed his brows and nced at the carriage behind him.

    "Halt!" he shouted, maneuvering the reins so that he would check on her.

    "Your Majesty?" Conan''s brows rose, watching Abel approach the carriage where Aries was. The emperor''s orders stopped everyone from rushing back to the pce.

    "Aries?" Abel called outside, knocking on the window while still riding his horse. His brow raised when she didn''t answer, making him jump out of the horse to knock on the carriage again.

    "Aries," he called once again, but nothing. "I knew it."

    Abel opened the carriage door, seeing Aries already sleeping while leaning her side against the carriage. He reached his hand to her forehead, checking her high temperature.

    "How weak," he muttered, turning his head in Conan''s direction. "I''ll ride the carriage. Do make haste, since Aries isn''t feeling well."

    That was all he said before hitching the carriage and mming the door closed. The people outside could only look at each other in puzzlement. Just moments ago, Abel insisted on riding his steed. But now, he changed his mind once again.

    "Why are we all surprised at this point?" Conan murmured, shaking his head to recollect his thoughts. "You heard His Majesty. Watch over for His Majesty''s steed and let us return to the pce at once!"

    "Yes!"

    Meanwhile, inside the carriage, Abel ignored the shouts outside before the carriage started moving again. Sitting beside Aries, Abel carefully assisted her head until she was leaning against his shoulder.

    He stared at her and sighed. "You''re making things soplicated," he muttered before assisting her until she was on hisp, cradling her in his arms so that she was sleeping in a morefortable position.

    Under his embrace, he could feel that her temperature was increasing. Abel settled his hand on her head, ncing down at her. Her cheeks were flushed with red, breathing growing heavier.

    "You should''ve left when you had a chance," came out another whisper, resting his chin on top of her head. "And preserve that image of Abel in your head."

    The more he grew fond of Aries, the more it scared him in a way. He knew there were other reasons she didn''t run away, but it was better if she didn''t stay. The longer she was with him, the more it would be hard for her to get away.

    Liking Aries as a person was different when he started obsessing over her. His eyes darkened as he lowered his head until his lips were touching her head. He caressed her arms with his knuckles gently.

    "Don''t make me say I told you so when you see the real me, Aries," he muttered, tightening his embrace around her delicate physique. "Stop testing me. You''d get hurt... terribly."

    Silence descended inside the carriage, and only her deep breaths were heard along with the sound of the carriage and steed rushing back to the imperial pce. They would take a while to reach the pce, but Abel didn''t mind the long journey.

    Running a fever would be Aries least of concern the more she stayed with him. That should be a lesson she should understand herself.

    <strong>***</strong>

    When Abel and Aries reached the imperial pce, no one bothered him when he carried Aries to the emperor''s quarters. He didn''t ask for the servant''s help to clean her. He simply asked for water and a change of clothes, then did everything himself.

    He wiped Aries, dried her hair in silence, and changed her clothes beforeying her down on his bed. This was the first time he would let another person sleep in this very room. The room he rarely used since he usually amodated his women in another room to not make a mess in this very room.

    After making sure Aries was resting well, he went to bathe and clean himself. Unlike Aries, standing under the rain wouldn''t affect him. He wasn''t as weak as her.<sub> </sub>

    With a towel over his head and a robe embracing his body, he returned to his room where she was. Abel stopped several steps away from the bed, eyes on her, still drying his hair with that small towel.

    "How hrious," he whispered, sauntering towards the bed and perched on the edge of the mattress. He looked at her once again, his arm stretching towards her to check her temperature. There was no doubt she was running a fever again.

    He raised a brow, shifting his attention to the medicine he asked for earlier on the bedside table. He could cure her by just letting her drink his blood, but that would be unnatural for her body. Also, it would ruin her poison training, since his blood could remove toxins in her system.

    "Aries, wake up for a moment to drink your medicine." He poked her shoulder, shaking her for a bit to wake her up.

    "Mhm..." the space between her brows wrinkled, grunting as she opened her eyes weakly. "Abel...?"

    "Medicine. Drink it." A bottle of medicine hovered over her, but Aries could barely think. She just wanted to sleep and rest and not drink medicine; that was her only thoughts.

    "Don''t want to," came out a muffled voice, pulling up the nket until half of her lower face was covered. She blinked ever so tenderly, trying to keep awake despite feeling weak and sleepy.

    "Don''t you want to get better?"

    "Bitter." She frowned.

    Abel narrowed his eyes, staring at her adorable countenance. Right now, her guards werepletely down. Obviously, she was ill again and couldn''t think straight.

    "What a piece of work," heughed briefly, setting his eyes on the medicine in his hand. He opened the lid, casting her a quick look. "We''ll do it fast."

    Abel lifted the sheet covering her lips before drinking the bottle of liquid medicine. Keeping the medicine inside his mouth, he bent over and nted his thumb on her chin. Without prior notice, he pulled her chin down until her mouth opened, transferring the medicine into her mouth to make her drink it.

    Aries winced at the bitter taste, clutching his shoulder des lightly. He didn''t do anything but feed her medicine, drawing his head back only to see her bitter expression.

    "Bitter?" he asked, and she nodded, making him nce at the bedside table. In there, there was a wrapped sweet the servants prepared. He picked it up and unwrapped it delicately.

    "Open your mouth," he ordered which she abided, shooting the small candy inside her mouth. "Better?"

    Her face brightened up as she smiled until her eyes squinted. "Mhm. Better."

    "Hahбн" he smirked, stroking her head lightly. "Back to sleep now."

    Abel carefully raised the nket over her shoulders. His eyes were gentle, watching her wash down the bitter taste with the candy. Aries rolled to her side, facing him.

    "Good night, Abel," she muttered as if she was having a wonderful dream.

    He raised his hand, brushing her cheek with a thumb. He then slid under the nket, lying next to her, even though he was still in his robe. Abel slid his arm under her neck while his other arm snaked over her, pulling her closer against his body.

    He sniffed her head, nting a brief peck on her forehead. "Good night, my Aries," he whispered before closing his eyes ever so slowly.

 Chapter 55 His Humor Always Scares Her

    Aries opened her eyes weakly, grunting at the state of her body. When she noticed the slightly familiar ceiling, a deep exhale slipped past her lips.

    ''I knew it. I would have a fever.'' Another sigh escaped her mouth. ''Did he...''

    Her thoughts were cut short when she noticed the person lying next to her. Her eyes nearly left their sockets, blinking countless times. Abel was just staring nkly at the ceiling in silence.

    "Aries." She flinched when he abruptly spoke, keeping his eyes on the ceiling.

    "Yes?" came out a hoarse voice.

    "Not you. Aries." Her brows wrinkled at his reply. "The other Aries you want to rece you."

    "Pardon?"

    "You should find her as soon as possible. I am thinking of helping you with this assignment."

    Aries''s brow twitched as dismay resurfaced in her eyes. "A бк Abel? It''s too early for this, don''t you think?"

    She raised her brows when he frowned. Her head was still throbbing slightly and her temperature barely dropped, so she didn''t want to deal with him for now. Or rather, she wanted to ask him to not <strong>''go all out.''</strong>

    "Why?" Abel slowly turned his head to face her squarely. "Don''t you want this assignment anymore?"

    "Huh?"

    "I am saying we should go all out. A full-blown search for the next biggest pet." He humored, propping his temple against his knuckles. "Who knows? We might find her the next day."

    "We?" Aries furrowed her brows as she looked at him innocently.

    "We. I''m nning on helping you. Why?"

    "What do you mean, why? Don''t you want me anymore?"

    Abel narrowed his eyes as he chuckled. "Darling, are you trying to make me happy with that question or what?" the side of his lips stretched from ear to ear while she pressed her lips into a thin line.

    That wasn''t what she meant by that. She just wanted to test if she could leave the empire alive. But well, he seemed pleased by the misunderstanding he created himself.

    "Hah... so how are you feeling?" he inquired, moving on from their previous random talk.

    "I..." Aries touched her forehead to check. She still had a slight fever and she would be fine with a day''s rest. Just as Aries was about to tell him about her self-diagnosis, her tongue rolled back upon a sudden realization.

    Aries stared at the pair of deep rubies hovering over her. His brows rose when she was staring for too long, saying nothing.

    "Hmm?" he hummed before he narrowed his eyes. "Do you want to cry?" he asked, noticing that the veins in her sclera reddened as if suppressing her tears.

    "N бк no." She shook her head and sported an awkward smile.

    It was just that she didn''t notice until now that she wasn''t really in a good shape. She had a few fevers already in this empire. But she wasn''t forcing herself to stand anymore if she couldn''t.

    If she wasn''t feeling well, she could rest at any time. The reason she wasn''t afraid of speaking her mind when necessary. When did it start? When did she start speaking with slight confidence again? Aries didn''t know when and how, and it only urred to her now.

    She snapped her eyes when he touched her forehead against the back of his hand. He looked a little serious as he tilted his head to the side.<sub> </sub>

    "Did you look after me all night?" she asked in a soft voice, causing his brows to raise. Even when he hadn''t confirmed yet, she smiled.

    "Thank you. Did I have a nightmare?" she inquired to change the subject.

    "No. You hadn''t had nightmares anymore. I sleep with you. I am a better nightmare."

    "Pfft бк" Aries pressed her lips to suppress herughter.

    "Darling, hold it in even if it suffocates you to death."

    This time, she bit her lower lip as hard as she could. For reasons unknown, she felt like she could joke around without worry. Even when he was evidently annoyed, he wasn''t harming her. Instead, he was indulging with her.

    "Are you really going to suffocate yourself?" he asked in irritation, and that broke her.

    Aries burst out inughter before it gradually grew into giggling, hiding under the nket. She only exposed her eyes, still vibrating while giggling.

    "It''s funny and amazing," she muttered yfully. "How proud you are that you''re a nightmare."

    "Darling, people talk about patriotism, gods, and what is right and moral. But I speak about their lies." Abel shrugged confidently. "Obviously, I don''t nurture hypocrisy in my living body."

    "That''s your charm." She praised. "I mean it."

    Abel might have a terrible personality and was an overall piece of garbage. But... he was the most real person she had ever encountered. He doesn''t wear a mask to deceive people.

    He only wore one; the crazy tyrant who would snap without a moment''s notice. That was why his words were so trustworthy. He never had a reason to lie; he was too arrogant for that.

    "Well, thank you for thepliment." He poked the tip of her nose lightly. "That feels rewarding."

    "Abel?"

    "Mhm?"

    "Do you like me?" she inquired, catching him off guard. He looked at her with a slight surprise before his expression returned to its original nonchnce.

    "Darling, you always surprise me whenever you''re ill. I might purposely make you fall ill just to get that slight heart attack." Heughed, shaking his head lightly. "But the answer to that question is, yes, I do like you to an extent."

    "Oh..."

    "Why are you suddenly interested?"

    Aries looked at him with slight doubt in her eyes. "Because I like you?" she bit her tongue after her remarks.

    "Haha! Nice try, darling." Abel bent over, ruffling her hair with a bright grin. "Do you want to be my sister?"

    "Wowбн that''s so random." She blurted out, pressing her lips into a thin line when she realized what she just said.

    His grin stretched from ear to ear until it looked evil. "It''s not. I''ve been thinking of adopting you. After beastiality, we''llmit incest. It sounds fun."

    "It sounded like you need help." All she could do was stare at Abel in conflict. Surely, no one would ever catch up to his train of thoughts.

 Chapter 56 She Wants To Be A Man

    "Bitter." Aries winced at the bitterness of the medicine Abel fed her.

    "Open your mouth."

    "Huh?" She raised her brows but still opened her mouth on instinct. Before she could react, Abel shoved something into her mouth.

    "What..." Aries trailed off when the bitter taste was reced by something sweet, melting into her mouth.

    "I told them to bring candy since you kept whining about its bitter taste." Abel shrugged nonchntly. "Happy?"

    The corner of her lips stretched into a smile, nodding as a response. "Better."

    "Good."

    Abel rocked his head lightly, hands on his crossed legs. Aries was leaning against the headboard while Abel was sitting up on the same bed, facing her squarely.

    "Now, you go back to sleep." He assisted her to lie down, tucking her in carefully.

    "Will you leave?" she asked until the nket covered her lips.

    "Do you want me to?" Aries shook her head on instinct and a smirk appeared on his lips. "Then I''ll stay."

    "How about your official duties?"

    "Conan will cover for me."

    "Is that fine?"

    "Obviously? Yesterday was his idea. Hence, now you''re in this state. He is more than happy to y as the emperor for a day than receive a different punishment," he exined indifferently. "Now, sleep."

    Aries shrunk down with her eyes on his face. Looking at him now, Abel didn''t look that scary. Actually, he looked a bit more normal than usual. He just had to refrain from talking too much, since it ruined his almost perfect image.

    She stared at him in silence until the medicine effect kicked in, making her eyelids droop. There was no exchange of words as she blinked weakly, eyes still on him until she sumbed to the darkness. As she did, Abel could not help but chuckle shortly.

    "Why would you look at me like that before you sleep?" he wondered, brushing a few strands of her hair away from her forehead. "You make me wish you don''t recover fast."

    A glint flickered across his naturally sharp eyes. He couldn''t remember thest time he felt this sort of peace. Abel was the person who wouldn''t stop doing something or he would go mad. But slowly, he was starting to like staying idle with herpany.

    A rest he never thought he needed. That was what Aries was to him. With her, all the crazy thoughts and strong violent urges magically disappeared without a trace.

    "You are my calm, Aries..." he whispered, pressing a finger on her forehead. "... but s, I don''t need such calm in my life."

    Abel caressed her cheek with his thumb, eyes etching her facial structure deep in his head. One day, she would leave. He would make sure she would leave next time before she figure out more about him and this empire. Because if she knew about him... Abel wouldn''t have any reason to stop himself from doing whatever he wanted.

    If she looked at him with disgust as if looking at a monster... he didn''t want to think about that now. Only the worst would befall Aries. So he wanted to preserve his image in her eyes; she may not look at him with affection and gentleness. At the very least, she wasn''t looking at him with utter disdain.

    "Run before that happens, my little darling." He slid down his finger from her forehead down the bridge of her nose to the tip. "Although you may not perish, you will die while you''re still alive."

    <strong>****</strong><sub> </sub>

    Hours had gone by and Aries woke up once again around nightfall. Unlike this morning, she didn''t have even the slightest headache, and she felt a lot better; thanks to the medicine.

    As soon as her mind started working, she turned her head to the side, only to see it empty. Abel wasn''t there anymore.

    "He said he will stay," she muttered, letting out a deep sigh. Aries faced the ceiling, blinking ever so slowly, leaving her mind nk. ''I think since I''ve been spending too much time with him, I am getting used to his presence.''

    Not that this was a good realization, but it also wasn''t bad. If anything, Aries felt a little conflicted. Was she getting close to him? Or was it just her imagination? But what was for sure was that she didn''t have to mind her words or actions around Abel; unless she knew her words would step out of her bounds.

    In other words, she could act like Conan. Someone who also feared Abel, but not at the same time.

    ''Should I forgive Sir Conan now?'' she wondered, thinking that Abel told her he covered for him. ''That means Abel worked him to the bone, right?''

    She wasn''t so heartless to not have a conscience. It was not like their date yesterday was entirely bad. Actually, that was her first time going outside after a long time. When the Rikhill fell from its grace, the crown prince of the Maganti Empire held Aries captive.

    Ever since then, she wouldn''t go out to have fun. But yesterday was something she didn''t expect. Although she fell ill as a result, she had fun overall.

    "I''m hungry," she murmured, eyes still on the ceiling. Aries flinched and her heart nearly left her ribcage when she heard Abel''s voice from the other side of the room.

    "I can give you an appetizer if you''re hungry." Aries slowly turned her head to the side бк the opposite side of where Abel usually lie down бк horror stered across her face. "I can offer my body while they prepare the food."

    Abel stopped beside the bed from the shelf. When Aries woke up, he was putting back the book on its shelf.

    "Have you been there all along?" she gasped, reviewing all the things she said aloud, thinking he already left.

    "Mhm. I promised to stay, didn''t I?" he shrugged and smirked yfully, sitting down on the edge of the mattress. "I was about to speak, but then I heard your disappointment when you thought I left. It made me want to listen more."

    "..." Aries bit her tongue, promising to herself she would never, ever speak her inner dialogues aloud. But her thoughts changed as she furrowed her brows, seeing him slowly remove the button of his trousers.

    "What are you doing?" she asked, watching him pause and gaze at her cluelessly.

    "You said you''re hungry. Just eat me." he cocked his head to the side, dead serious on ''feeding'' her. "I''m the best appetizer, main course, and dessert you will ever have! Should I present myself on a silver tter?"

    Her breath hitched as listened to his offer. She didn''t reply anymore as she rolled to her side, back facing him.

    "Eat yourself," she murmured, frowning when she felt him behind her. "Abel, I want to be a man."

    "Hmm? That''s so random." Abel wrapped his arm around her waist. "Then, be a man."

    "Can I?" this time, she fearlessly rolled around to face him. "I''m serious."

    p "Mhm. Shall we change your wardrobe?"</anda>

    She wasn''t entirely joking, but so was he. She scrutinized the man whoid down beside her, wondering if being a man would change his perspective.

    "No. But I want to try to test if my gender is the problem." She told him honestly. As usual, he grinned yfully and cheered on her.

    "Then, good luck with that."

 Chapter 57 They Call Her Ariel

    Aries stayed in the emperor''s quarters all day and night, getting the rest she needed to recover. With enough rest, she was back to full health the next day. They returned to their normal schedule after that.

    She returned to the pce where she dwelled, attending her lessons from Dexter and Conan. Meanwhile, Abel returned to bing the emperor. It had been a week since then.

    And... it had been a week since Aries refused to wear anything feminine. Abel backed her up so no one could scold her actions and decisions.

    "Lady Aries."

    "Ariel." She corrected, casting Conan a knowing look as they walked through the hallway, heading to the library.

    "Sir Ariel?" Conan called, walking beside her with a distorted expression.

    "Yes?"

    "Oh,e on!" he eximed in distress, exiting the castle as they walked down the gravel path connecting to the other castle. "Please tell me this is a part of the research to find your recement! Just look at you! Wearing men''s clothes is alright, but do you have to take it this far as to wear a wig? Where did you even get it?"

    "His Majesty gifted it to me."

    Conan gasped in disbelief. "Just what happened during your date? I thought you two had gotten close since you were eating each other under the pouring rain!"

    This time, her steps stopped. She turned and faced Conan squarely, surrounded by the greenery between two pces.

    "Sir Conan, I didn''t ask you before because you looked like you turned gaunt after ying as the emperor for a day," came out a dead voice, blinking nkly at him. "But now that you mentioned it, were you trying to make me close to His Majesty?"

    His entire face went nk as he took a step back, waving awkwardly. "Of course not! I''m just saying because that''s what it looks like to me!" he exined in panic, studying Aries''s nk countenance.

    Although she had kept her hair tied up for the past several days, seeing her in a short wig made her look like a young nobleman. The servant who helped her in this ''disguise'' or ''costume'' surely did a good job. Aries was handsome; like a pretty boy that women would fawn over.

    "Really?" she narrowed her eyes suspiciously.

    "Yes!" Conan affirmed, gulping under her investigative gaze. "Really! Cross my heart!"

    "Hope to die?" she continued, but Conan frowned. "Well, never mind then."

    He heaved a sigh as she didn''t probe, running to her side to ask. "Lady Aries, I mean, Ariel, why are you doing this?"

    "I want to be a man, obviously." She nced at him as they continued to walk down the long gravel path. "For research purposes."

    "Re бк research?"

    She nodded, eyes ahead. "Being a woman is tough. I am trying to see if His Majesty will still like me if I am a man. If he did, that means my recement doesn''t mean she should be a female, right?"

    "Ah?"

    "Also, I''m trying to see if I can be a man once my assignment is fulfilled," she continued with a shrug. "This world is safer for men. Women just be a subject for worldly desires."<sub> </sub>

    "Goodness..." Conan could only look at her side, noticing the determination in her eyes. Did the date help? He thought it did. But it seemed it only fueled Aries''s determination toplete this ridiculous assignment.

    The two of them hurried to get into the pce but stopped when they heard Abel. Aries and Conan stopped, turning around and then looking up. There, on the balcony, Abel was leaning against the railing with a few people behind him.

    "Who is that gorgeous thing over there?!" Abel yelled, grinning from ear to ear, hand cupping his cheek. His eyes fixed on Aries, who was barely recognizable with that brown wig covering her green one.

    Aries frowned, cing the side of her hands on the corners of her lips as she yelled back. "It''s handsome! I''m a man, remember?!"

    Conan instantly scrunched his nose, casting her a look of dismay. But Aries''s focus was on Abel on the terrace.

    "Ah, right, right! My bad." He raised a hand as he apologized whileughing.

    "Gosh... how can he forget when it''s obvious what I''m trying to do?" she grumbled, clicking her tongue as she turned around to walk away. "Why do I keep correcting people?"

    "Lady Aries, are you sure you haven''t gotten close to him?" Conan hurriedly followed her after gazing at Abel on the terrace. "I know His Majesty is troublesome but did his personality also rub on you? I heard it''s contagious!"

    She cast him a side-eye. "It is contagious, Sir Conan. And I only realized that when you started betraying your only ally."

    "I didn''t! I swear!!"

    While Conan was whining around Aries, like how he would whine around Abel, thetter chuckled delightfully. He kept his eyes on the two figures heading to the opposite pce while his grin remained.

    "My... I''m bent," he chuckled happily, ignoring the awkward eyes on his back. "At this rate, even women would desire her. Ahh... is she trying to make me go against the world for her?"

    His eyes squinted into mere slits as he slowly turned around. His elbows propped against the railings, facing the noblemen apanying him.

    "What do you think?" he asked and tilted his head to the side.

    "Your Majesty?"

    "About my pet, who is going through a gender identity crisis," he exined in a knowing tone. "The state of affairs is boring! Indulge with me. How do I win against her?"

    "..."

    "Come on, my humble subject. I gathered you here because you were schrs and smart people! Obviously, if you can strategize on how to win and conquer a war, this question should be easy, correct?" heughed delightfully, raising his brows up. "As you can see, she is spoiled rotten that she now wants to be called Ariel!"

    Abel ced a palm across his chest dramatically, sighing as if he was carrying the entire world on his back. "Should I act like a damsel in distress so my prince saves me? If you don''t figure it out, I will announce that the empire will be ruled by an empress, me."

    "Your Majestyбн" the group of noblemen from the ministry of affairs could only look at Abel helplessly. They were people who used their brilliant minds to contribute to the progress of the empire. However, this was beyond their line of work!!

    "What a useless bunch." Abel shook his head as he turned around, eyes on the castle where Aries headed. "They are all so boring, darling. I''m envious of Conan. Hmm... let''s go there."

 Chapter 58 [Bonus Chapter] Boys Love Unfolding

    "Sir Conan, you will not hear from me until youe clean."

    Aries rolled her eyes and cast Conan, who was walking beside him, a look. Conan had been nagging her since this morning, berating her chosen attire, and sometimes wouldpliment her whenever his attention was diverted. Honestly, she was considering dressing up as a man just to make fun of Conan.

    "Lady Aries..." Conan whimpered, frowning at her indifference. "You should''ve influenced him instead of letting His Majesty influence you."

    This time, she stopped in the middle of the hallway, facing Conan squarely. "And what gave you the impression His Majesty has anything to do with this idea? Sure. He allowed me to be anyone I want to be, but dressing up as a man is my decision."

    "But Lady Aries... I mean, Ariel, do you have to take it this far?" Conan helplessly sighed, studying her appearance. She only needed a beard and no one would know Aries was a she!

    "What do you mean this far?" she crossed her arms and tilted her head to the side. "I haven''t tested my manly charms yet."

    "Manly... what charms???"

    Aries shook her head, exhaling faintly. All she said until that point was utter crap, but she didn''t want to exin herself to Conan repeatedly. She was simply toying with his head; consider it as her revenge because Conan kept pushing her to Abel.

    "Sir Conan, do you think His Majesty will treat me the same if I was a man?" she inquired, ignoring their previous topics. "No, I mean, if I was a man, would I be here in the first ce? Would I be a war trophy?"

    "What..."

    "I won''t." She shrugged nonchntly. "I would''ve died when Rikhill fell into ruin. The more I think about it, my main problem is my face and gender. I will correct that."

    With that being said, Aries sported a knowing look before resuming her strides. Meanwhile, Conan stayed at his standpoint for a moment, eyes on Aries''s back.

    He sighed before jogging to catch up to her. "Lady Aries, are you sure this is just a problem you need to address?" he asked, gazing at her side. "Or... are you trying to distract yourself from another problem?"

    "Who knows..." she paused, giving him a side-eye. "Maybe both. This is your fault, Sir Conan."

    "What? How was it my fault now?" he gasped as they continued with their steps once again.

    "That date wasn''t my idea," came out a sarcastic tone. "Now everything is a blur."

    "Huh?" Conan raised his brows and blinked cluelessly, but Aries kept her stoic countenance. "What blur?"

    She nced at him and shook her head lightly. "You should just tell me why the sudden change of heart. Instead of trying so hard to lie. Things like this are always bound to doom."

    "Lady Aries..." he frowned, scratching his temple. How would Conan tell her ''to like Abel?'' He already told her this in passing, but her argument was strong. Abel was a fickle man. Hence, the line Aries had drawn was to protect herself.

    The emperor, although this was the first time he had shown such leniency to someone, was still unpredictable. The reason, although Conan was certain Abel was fond of Aries, he didn''t know how fond he was. Maybe letting her go was the best option.

    But then again, how about Abel?

    That was right. Before Conan became Aries''s partner in crime, he was one of Abel''s loyal subjects. They had been together for a long time, and Conan only wished for Abel to be happy. Even if it was only for a short time, it was good if Abel had wonderful memories he could think of.<sub> </sub>

    He hung his head low, being sandwiched in this situation. "Lady Aries, can you stay in Haimirich?" his questionpletely made Aries halt. Conan raised his head and sighed when meeting her eyes.

    p "I heard His Majesty left you that day, but you didn''t run away. Can I ask why you didn''t run away?"</anda>

    "Because there''s still no recement for me and that just doesn''t sound right."

    "Are you sure that''s the reason?" he inquired, making her bit her tongue but maintaining her expression. "If you think I am trying to match you with His Majesty, then you''re not wrong. I wish Lady Aries will change her mind and always choose His Majesty."

    There were many things Conan wanted to add, but he only spoke about what was important. Abel might be crazy, but only recently did he start practicing patience. God knows how many deaths were reduced and all that, thanks to Aries.

    Aries lowered her eyes and sighed. "Sir Conan, we already had this conversation."

    "Yes, I know, but I --"

    "Then I don''t understand why we''re having this conversation." She cocked her head to the side, eyshes fluttering ever so slowly. "I just had one question, Sir Conan. Until you can answer that clearly, then let''s not talk about this again. Also, until your intentions are clear, let''s put our alliance on pause. I think we both benefited from that alliance, anyway."

    With that being said, Aries huffed as she continued to waltz through the hallway of the inner pce. She didn''t look back, nor did she slow down to wait for Conan. He was a great help to her, but since Conan''s intention changed, it was just Aries again.

    ''That''s right. I should just trust myself...'' Her thoughts trailed off when she took a left turn, stopping to avoid bumping into a person. But thetter didn''t notice her, making her jump back and lose her bnce.

    "Oh." Aries acted on instinct, reaching for the beautifuldy''s hand to stop her from falling. Thanks to her adrenaline rush, Aries found the strength to pull thedy up, causing her tond on her chest.

    Everything happened so fast that thedy was in a daze momentarily. She only snapped her eyes when Aries lowered her head, looking at her worriedly.

    "Are you alright?" asked Aries, modting her voice to sound different for reasons she didn''t know herself. She raised her brows, seeing that the flustered youngdy just stared at her, wide-eyed.

    "Uh... yes." Thedy nodded and blushed when Aries smiled. It made her wonder who in the world was this dashing ''young man''.

    "That''s a relief then." Aries rocked her head, helping the youngdy stand properly. "My apologies for appearing like that."

    "No, it''s alright. It was me who wasn''t looking!"

    As Aries and the youngdy engaged in a conversation, mainly about what just happened, Conan, who followed the former, could not help but gasp in dismay. Wasn''t that youngdy the daughter of the Viscount in the southern region? Who was also Abel''s number one admirer?

    ''Why was she blushing?'' he wondered, darting his eyes between the youngdy and Aries in disguise. ''Is this the experiment she is doing?! Seducing women?! Just how is this not being influenced by His Majesty?!''

    Before Conan could react, he froze when a figure stood beside him. Like a rusting robot, Conan turned his head to his side, only to see Abel smirk at the sight before them.

    "Huh... interesting." Abel let out a low chuckle, ignoring Conan as he strutted towards Aries and a nobleman''s daughter.

    "Your Majesty..." Conan tried to reach Abel dramatically but was unable to do so. All he could do was watch Abel and Aries seduce an innocent youngdy as if their life depended on it.

 Chapter 59 Boys Love Unfolding II

    By Aries'' persistence to walk thedy, thetter didn''t have a choice but ept that the emperor in this empire and a beautiful young man to walk her to her destination. Anyone in her position would feel ttered to get their attention.

    The young nobledy walked with her face flushed in red. She nced over her shoulder and then at the other, pressing her lips into a thin line. Behind her were Abel and Aries, who introduced herself as <strong>''Ariel''.</strong>

    ''Did the powder I put on today really effective?'' she wondered, touching her blushing cheek.

    Meanwhile, as the confused young maiden wondered how she caught the attention of these two ''men,'' Aries and Abel were pressing on each other''s nerves. Despite the vein propping on their temple, they maintained their polite smile.

    "Your Majesty, you didn''t have to bother yourself. I can walk Lady Rosie like a proper gentleman," Aries stressed with a fake smile, leaning her side against him. "Or... do you not trust me? I won''t do anything to her."

    "Hehe. Of course, I trust you. However, men are savages. I''m not saying you are. What I''m saying is, I aming to be the sacrificialmb, just in case." Abel exined in a matter-of-fact, lips stretching from ear to ear.

    "That literally means ''you don''t trust me.''" She scrunched her nose up in dismay.

    Abel shook a finger sideways. "You''re a man, right? I don''t trust men."

    "Only women?"

    "Only my pet." He grinned while her expression died. "You''re not her, apparently."

    Aries frowned and huffed, peeling her eyes away from him. "Don''t you have more important things to do?"

    "I''m doing that already." Abel pointed his thumb over his shoulder, making her look back. To her surprise, from a great distance, a group of noblemen was following their trails. They kept a respectful distance that one wouldn''t notice their presence.

    "They''re here to help me. Even if we''re walking around, they are already working. Their brains are," he exined even before she could ask.

    "Do you drag them around while working?" she asked in a disbelief voice.

    "Sometimes." He shrugged. "But this is important. They are helping me find some answers."

    "Answers for?"

    Abel gazed at the curious Aries while his lips stretched even broader until his teeth showed. "On how to win against a formidable opponent."

    "Oh..." her lips formed an O-shape, nodding in understanding. ''For Abel to put an effort, that person must be truly formidable,'' she thought.

    "Well, anyway..." he dawdled as he gazed up at her brown wig. "I miss green. Take this off."

    Abel pointed at her wig, but Aries already backed away whilst protecting her wig. He tilted his head to the side with a misced innocence in his eyes, blinking cluelessly. He didn''t n to take her wig off himself, but she was acting as if he wanted to. Either way, she still looked adorable.

    "You promised." She reminded him cautiously. "You''ll let me be someone I want. This hair is now my hair. No more green."

    "But green is a lot more nature friendly!"

    "No green."

    "Aww..." he frowned and sighed, almost sulking.

    Aries studied his reaction before stepping closer to him again. "Why? Do you like my hair color that much?"<sub> </sub>

    "I do, darling. I even suggested Conan dye my hair, but he didn''t want to, apparently."

    "Oh... so green hair is a must..." she mumbled while rubbing her chin while Abel quirked a brow.

    "Yes, green hair is a must." He nodded, knowing she was thinking about her recement.

    His answer guaranteed him a strange look from her. This time, Abel was unable to read what was that look about. So he tilted his head to the side, but Aries pretended not to notice his puzzlement as she gaze ahead.

    There was a moment of silence between them. The youngdy was walking a step ahead of them, so she couldn''t really see or hear Abel and Aries.

    Abel gazed at the youngdy''s back before a smirk dominated his face. A smile that everyone knew when he thought of a great idea.

    "Ariel," he whispered, bending over to his side until his shoulder bumped against Aries. Her entire back stiffened when Abel circled an arm around her waist, pulling her closer to him.

    "Don''t you think it''s interesting?" he muttered while she gazed up at him, treading carefully. "This youngdy fell for my charms. Little did she know I was indulging with her because I am more interested in the ''man'' who fancied her."

    Aries gulped as she stared at the evil grin stered on his face. She awkwardly nced at the woman ahead of them, letting out a sigh before she averted her eyes back to him.

    ''First, beastiality. Then, incest. Now what?'' she thought and she couldn''t help but judge Abel''s inkling in these things. She leaned her face forward to whisper at him.

    "Do you not care if I am a man?" she asked out of in curiosity.

    "Do you think I care?"

    "I mean, of course, you know I''m not. But just a wild ''what if'' I was born..."

    "Do you think I care even if you have the same genitalia as mine?" heughed yfully. "You''ll still have a hole. I''ll probably let you prate me too."

    Aries''s face flushed as she felt embarrassed by everything that wasing out of his mouth. How could he say such embarrassing things with a smile?! Even someone who was hearing him felt embarrassed in his stead.

    "Want some proof?" this time, he stopped and stilled her waist. He faced her, pulling her waist until her front was against his body. Abel bent over while she drew her back to a limited extent.

    "Wha бк what?" she stammered. "People are looking." Aries nced at the group of people following them and felt sorry after seeing their traumatized expressions.

    "Shall I make out with Ariel?" he asked delightfully. He was the only one who was unaffected by the awkwardness of the situation. His brow quirked when he felt that the youngdy stopped and was about to look at them.

    For some petty reason, Abel smirked as a glint flickered across his eyes. Without a moment''s notice, he tilted his head and imed Aries''s lips. Thetter''s eyes popped out of their sockets and froze when she heard the youngdy''s voice.

    "I''ve arrived. Thank you, Your Majesty and Sir Arielбн" the youngdy''s jaw dropped as soon as she turned around, seeing two men kissing. For a moment, her mind entered a nk state, watching the cunning smirk appear on Abel''s lips as he drew back.

    "Taste lovely as ever." As a habit, Abel wiped Aries''s lips with his thumb. He then turned his head to the rattled youngdy and smiled from ear to ear.

    "Not at all, Lady Rosie." He grinned, sping Aries''s hand. "Well then, we will take our leave to continue our matter privately."

    He didn''t wait for Lady Rosie to recover as he dragged Aries with him. A triumphant smirk appeared on his face while Aries nced at the youngdy in horror. Not just her, but all the men who had been following them and were forced to witness their kiss had this face of horror.

    Although they knew Aries was a woman бк a beautiful one бк she still looked like a man right now! Now, they wouldn''t unsee that scene of two men kissing right in front of them!

 Chapter 60 What Is Love?

    Abel was known by many titles: an emperor who ruled an empire with an iron fist, a tyrant, and someone who was infamous for his promiscuous lifestyle. His name alone was shrouded with controversy. But just days ago, another rumor resurfaced in the high society regarding the emperor.

    That was... Abel was into men.

    A rumor that could put the person who started it a ticket to death row shook the high society. Although the rumor was kept amongst nobles, their whispering and murmurs during tea parties and banquets wouldn''t stop.

    For women, this shocked them to the core. Especially those who had seen the emperor and fancied his stunning looks. But for men who heard this? They felt nothing but dread.

    Abel would call women to his bedroom. Now that he was interested in men, everyone was busy hoping that they wouldn''t catch Abel''s eyes. They were afraid that the emperor would fancy them and call them to his bed. If he did, they wouldn''t have any choice but to sacrifice their chastity.

    "Hahaha!" Abel burst out inughter as he listened to Conan''s whines early in the morning about these ridiculous rumors.

    "Your Majesty!" Conan seethed in distress, stomping his feet in front of the emperor''s desk. "This is not aughing matter! Everyone, especially men, is terrified to show themselves to you! Haven''t you noticed their reaction during your court meeting?!"

    Abel wiped the corner of his eyes, holding his stomach to stop himself fromughing. "Is that the reason? I thought they simply liked me!" he intoned yfully, pping in amusement.

    "Your Majesty... did you kiss Lady Aries while looking like a man in public because you want such rumors to exist?" Conan frowned helplessly. He was already stressed by appeasing Aries, and now he had to deal with Abel''s actions!

    Was it possible to split himself?! Why couldn''t this emperor rx for a bit and not cause trouble for Conan?

    "Your Majesty, can you give me a break? Lady Aries is already angry with me..." came out a muffled voice, on the verge of having an emotional breakdown due to stress. "... how about you try to be a normal emperor for a day? Just one day."

    "Dearest Conan, your problem with Aries is a separate matter from me! I am being normal." Abelughed while shaking his head. "Poor you. This is what happens if you step out of your bounds."

    "Admit it, Your Majesty. You''re sabotaging me, don''t you?"

    Abel raised both his hands in defense. "I am innocent, my loyal aide. It''s just that I am the better cupid!"

    Conan frowned. At this point, he truly believed the real reason Aries was angry with him was because of Abel! She wouldn''t be that repelled by Conan if Abel wasn''t ying with her head! For Pete''s sake! Conan''s intention was good!

    ''Just what''s so wrong in helping?'' his frown grew worse as he kept his thoughts to himself. ''I know you want her to stay for as long as she can. Why is he so against making her stay? It''s not like what he is, is something that bothered him.''

    "Conan, Conan, my loyal aide." Abel sighed dramatically. "You are so cute. I told you, didn''t I? Don''t spoil my fun with her and stop thinking about anything deeper or further ahead. Don''t let me repeat this again."

    Conan let out a sharp exhale. "Fine," came out a grumble. "Then, I won''t hold back anymore. Lady Aries kept asking me why the sudden change of heart. I''ll just tell her it was not me who had a change of heart."

    He huffed, making Abel raise his brows. When Conan bowed and excused himself, Abel fixed his eyes on the door of his office. A faintugh slipped past his lips, leaning back against the chair.

    "I think Conan had be senile." He gazed at the door, keeping his slight smile. "Aries is not dumb. She''s too smart not to notice who had a sudden change of heart. She simply needs a confirmation which... I obviously won''t do. I''m not that kind."

    No one in this empire or in the entire world knew Aries better than Abel. They both knew that because Abel never sees her any less than anyone. In fact, he saw her in high regard. Regardless of the atrocities done to her in the Maganti Empire, he never made her feel any less despite that.

    Thus, he could see the real Aries. The Aries this world tried so hard to kill, but still thriving and surviving.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Meanwhile, in the inner pce''s library...<sub> </sub>

    Aries flinched when Dexter snapped a finger in front of her. "Yes?" she blinked, recollecting her scattered thoughts.

    "Did you perhaps hear the rumor about His Majesty?" he inquired, propping his arms against the table. He tilted his head to the side, batting his eyes ever so tenderly. "You''ve been spacing out a lot."

    "Huh? Oh, I''m sorry," came out an awkward reply while scratching her jaw. "What rumor are you talking about?"

    "The rumor about His Majesty fancying men." His eyes scanned her momentarily before he pointed out. "You''re not wearing a wig today, although you''re still wearing a man''s outfit."

    "It''sfortable," she murmured, not surprised by the rumor he was speaking. That was Abel''s fault, so she wanted nothing to do with it.

    Dexter chuckled. "At this rate, I don''t know if we will be able to finish our lecture. You keep zoning out. Shall I lend you an ear?"

    "No." She pouted, averting her eyes away. When she nced at the man sitting across from her again, she cleared her throat. He was waiting.

    "It''s just... I''m thinking about my recement," she confessed while his brows rose.

    "A recement?"

    "Mhm. A recement." She nodded, eyes lowering. "But somehow... it just doesn''t sit right with me."

    "Why won''t it? You are given the chance to escape this ce. Is there any reason you feel like it''s not right?"

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips. "If I know, I wouldn''t be so hung up finding answers."

    "Lady Aries, do you like His Majesty?" this time, her breath hitched as she raised her head until she locked eyes with him. "By that, I mean, if your brain doesn''t know the answer, ask your heart."

    Dexter pointed at his chest, eyes still on her. "There were certain things that our minds don''t know, but our heart does." He pointed at his temple briefly before putting down his hand. "Sometimes, the answer isn''t also important. The question is: do you love him? Do you care enough? What do you feel about that person? And what is his effect on you when he is around you? Things like that."

    Aries remained silent as she stared at Dexter''s kind countenance. He was surely different from Conan. Thetter was only fun to hang out with, but Dexter''s wisdom was on a whole different level.

    "I don''t love him..." she whispered as she lowered her eyes. "... that''s for sure. What is love even mean?"

    "The meaning of that word differed from different people."

    "What is love for you then, Marquess Vandran?"

    Dexter raised his brows at her question, a bit surprised. "Love... is a strange phenomenon that urs to people. It doesn''t matter what status you have or how smart you are. It cripples people to an extent." He shrugged nonchntly.

    "What about you, Lady Aries? What is the meaning of love for you?" he asked, bouncing the question back to her smoothly.

    "Love..." she whispered as she racked her brains for an answer. "... is something that isn''t forced, I guess?"

    Little did she know, her brief distraction with her own thoughts, she failed to notice the surprise her answer brought at the Marquess. He smiled andughed shortly, rocking his head.

    "That''s an interesting answer. It reminds me of someone."

 Chapter 61 His Answer Was Something She Didnt Expect

    Aries''s conversation with Dexter lingered in her mind all day. They didn''t dwell on the topic because it was time for Dexter to go. Although he wanted to entertain her, he had to do something important. Hence, he had to leave.

    Since Aries had a day off to spend without Abel or Conan pestering her, she decided to take a walk in the garden. The main garden was destroyed and now became a field for Abel''s most treasured potatoes. The garden used to be by far the biggest and most beautiful garden in the imperial pce.

    But that didn''t mean there weren''t any gardens in the imperial pce. If she remembered correctly, they were a total of twelve gardens. So, Aries just went to the west garden situated in the Rose pce where she was staying at.

    Walking down the gravel path, Aries held her hand behind her. "Do I like him?" she murmured, recalling the questions Dexter mentioned.

    "Obviously, I don''t." She stopped to let out a sigh. "Who would like a lunatic like him?"

    Abel was a total lunatic. She still hadn''t forgotten the time Abel snapped the neck of a soldier from the Maganti Empire. Not to mention his crazy train of thoughts and fickle heart! The main point here was, only a crazy person would like him.

    Even so, Aries couldn''tpletely agree with herself. She was torn.

    ''Because aside from all his crazy antics, he doesn''t hurt me now,'' she thought, recalling the time he raised a sword at her, for the obvious reason he went crazy. That instance to her was something she would never forget, because that was her reminder that Abel was capable of taking her life whenever he pleased.

    That was the real reason and the primary source of her confusion. If Abel was bad, he should just go dark all the way. She disliked the gradual change in their rtionship, where she didn''t need to hold back on her words. Where she could act as herself and speak her mind without fear.

    A rtionship with Abel where she could joke and speak bullshit without feeling guilty. This development where she was subconsciously... having fun.

    Aries''s mood hit rock bottom, dragging her feet and looking around at the beautiful flowers under this glorious weather. But their beauty could not elevate her mood.

    "Should I try practicing archery? I did get ess to enter Abel''s training grounds even without prior notice," she murmured, rubbing her chin. She needed to stop thinking for a while. An exercise just sounded so enticing and effective in her ear.

    Determined, Aries turned around to head to the training grounds. But just as she did, she bumped her nose against a person''s chest. She looked up ever so slowly, eyes dted at the sight of Abel.

    She gasped, covering her lips with both her hands. ''Since when was he here? And this close? I didn''t even notice!'' her eyes screamed in horror, making himugh yfully.

    "I just arrived, darling. Why? Were you mumbling your thoughts again?" he tilted his head, sporting a teasing smirk. "Let me hear what''s it''s about. It''s about me, right?"

    Aries frowned as she carefully uncovered her palms away from her mouth. "Does the emperor have so much free time? The west garden is not that close to the main pce."

    "Oh, dear! I told you I''ve been an emperor for a long time, that I can finish a month''s worth of work in a week and with my eyes closed." He gloated, making her snap her tongue lightly. "Don''t you want mypany?"

    "I didn''t say that." Aries changed her mind and continued to stroll the garden. Knowing Abel, he would surely follow her to the training ground. It was safe to keep him away from weapons. Just in case, he would suddenly consider that using Aries as his target was fun for both of them.

    Abel walked beside her, body tilting forward, eyes on her. "Don''t be so heartless, darling. Aren''t you ttered I am sparing you my time despite my hectic schedule?"<sub> </sub>

    "Really..." she huffed and stopped, casting him a dead look. "... why are you here, Your Majesty?"

    He grinned until his eyes were squinting. "Conan is looking for you. So I did before he can."

    ? "Huh?"

    "He is challenging me, that''s all," he summarized, keeping it vague like usual.

    "Was that a bad thing?" she wondered, resuming in her strides while he followed. "I mean the fact that Sir Conan is challenging you. Will he be alright?"

    "Darling, you''re too soft." Heughed while she snuck nced at him. "Conan used you multiple times already, but you are still worried when he wasn''t even bothered by whatever your concern?"

    "It''s not that..." she breathed out with a slight frown. "I am a little annoyed at him, but not to the extent I wish the unfortunate thing would befall him."

    Abel pressed his lips, standing in his stature while gazing ahead. "Still too soft," hemented, walking leisurely, being surrounded by a variety of beautiful flowers.

    The two of them simply walked into the garden, silence descending on them. In the middle of the silence, Aries cast him a side-eye. She pressed her lips into a thin line while Dexter''s words hovered over her head once again.

    What does she feel whenever he was around?

    Nothing. That was her answer. She didn''t have any particr feeling about it. Or rather, she didn''t know what exactly she felt. She wasn''t repelled by his presence anymore, but if he didn''t appear, she would be alright too.

    Was it because Abel would often act shallow? Hence, there was no other role he yed aside from being her ''owner?'' Now that she thought about it, she could not help but wonder if that was intentional.

    Aries took a deep breath before she mustered the courage to ask a question. "Abel?" she called while he hummed, his eyes fixed ahead.

    "What is love?" she inquired, watching him cast her a side-eye. "Marquess Vandran said love has different meanings for each individual. I was wondering about your thoughts regarding it."

    "Hah..." Abel rocked his head lightly while keeping his indifferent gaze at her. "... you think I have time to think about that abomination?"

    "Right..." Aries awkwardlyughed. What was she thinking? Abel and love just didn''t seem to suit each other. But just a momentter, she froze on the spot. She carefully raised her eyes, staring at his broad back at his next words.

    "Love... is what I do alone." That was all he said, treading ahead without waiting for her.

 Chapter 62 Best Buddies

    "Love... is what I do alone."

    For some reason, Abel''s words and staring at his back brought this inexplicable pang in her heart. His tone was still light, but she felt bitter about it. Why? Why would his back look so sad after stating such remarks?

    Why... did that single sentence sound so heartbreaking? Who... broke his heart?

    Her eyes softened, watching him stop in his tracks. Abel slowly turned around and tilted his head to the side.

    "Darling?" he called, blinking cluelessly. "Come?"

    Abel frowned when she just stared at him with iprehensible emotions in her eyes. He raised a hand, offering it to her.

    "Indulge with me more," he requested, waiting for her to run to him and take his hand. But when she didn''t move a muscle, a shallow breath slipped past his lips. Abel walked back and stopped when they were toe to toe.

    "That look in your eyes makes me ufortable," he joked, draping his arm across her shoulder and locking her head around his arm. "You''re a man, correct? You''re my best buddy now."

    "Ahh...!" Aries frowned, walking with her upper body ahead as he kept her head locked with his arm. Surely, Abel was the only person who took her experimentation seriously. No man would headlock ady while dragging her deep into the garden.

    "I will suffocate at this point!" came out a yell, grinding her teeth while ring at him. She was just about to feel sentimental, but he obviously sabotaged it. Aries sighed, ncing at his stretched lips while spewing nonsense.

    She lowered her eyes, clicking her tongue. ''Here he is again.'' She thought, getting the gist of this pattern she almost didn''t notice.

    Every time things would get serious, Abel would divert their attention. She frowned at the thought, ignoring him or the way she had to walk. If this was any normal day, she would get strayed, just as he nned. But today was an exception.

    There were just so many things that were happening in her head. A distraction such as this wasn''t enough.

    Abel smirked as he cast her a nce. "Don''t be so depressed. I came here to annoy you to death." He ruffled her hair, watching her raise her eyes at him.

    A frown dominated her face, unfazed by the hand ruffling her hair. "You should leave me alone. I have many things to think about."

    "Darling, don''t use your head. The smarter you are, the sadder you will be!"

    "Are you saying you''re the saddest person?"

    "I am saying I am the smartest!" he shrugged, highlighting the benefits instead of the bad side of their discussion.

    She sighed. "Fine... where are we going?"

    "I don''t know?" he grinned as they passed by the arch, entering the deeper part of the garden. "This is your garden. Don''t you know what lies in this garden and why I gave you the Rose Pce?"

    "Huh?" Her reaction was the giveaway she didn''t know. Well, it was not her fault! It was only been recent since she started roaming the imperial pce, but a day wasn''t even enough to tour the entire ce.

    "Hah..." Abel snickered and shook his head lightly. "You are such a simpleton."

    "Look who''s talking." She pouted, scrunching her nose when her back began to ache. "My back. Can you let me go now?"

    "Why? It''s fun!" Abel tightened his arm around her neck, but just enough not to suffocate her. "Don''t tell me you prefer two men kissing instead? Have you heard about the rumor?"

    "You look excited for someone who is the subject of that rumor."

    "Of course! Who would have thought that my preferences are enough to scare away annoying pests?" His lips stretched from ear to ear, lowering his head until they were at eye level. "They can''t even look at me in the eye, afraid I will call them to my chambers. I should do that for fun."<sub> </sub>

    Aries tried to hide her dismay, but her entire face crumpled at his gloating. This wasn''t something he should be proud of. She heard from the whispering voices in the inner pce about the rumor, and Dexter even mentioned it.

    That only meant the rumor had already spread like a wildfire. And here he was, excited to share a disparaging rumor regarding him! Surely, Abel was one of a kind.

    ''Some people try their best to not get their names in any rumors. But this man...'' a shallow breath escaped her nostrils. ''... I''m speechless.''

    "Abel, are you the one who spread the rumors?" she asked, interfering with his nonsense boasting.

    He gazed at her, blinking many times. "Why would I do that to myself?"

    "Won''t you find whoever started that rumor?" Aries bit her tongue as she had a sudden hunch. "Ah, never mind. Where are we heading?"

    "Are you changing the subject?"

    "No." She averted her eyes as they stopped.

    This time, Abel released her neck, only to nt both his palms on her shoulders. He bent over, narrowing his eyes suspiciously. Meanwhile, Aries cleared her throat and avoided his investigative gaze.

    "Is this because of that youngdy?" he asked, searching for her elusive eyes. "You think she will be the prime suspect for starting this rumor? Hmm? Well, that only makes sense, though."

    "Wait, what?"

    "So it''s actually because of her?" Abel frowned until his brows linked. "Shall I frame her?"

    "Frame... oy, are you crazy?" she blurted out, but couldn''t react quickly when he spoke in response.

    "Well, that''s a hriously stupid question! Have you be a man?" he leaned his face closer, wide-eyed. "Do you like women now?"

    "Huh?" Aries scrunched her nose up as this conversation was getting ridiculous with every passing second. Why was he panicking? Wait, he just said he would frame the dainty Lady Rosie!

    Her mind buzzed for a second before she shook her head. "Wait, wait. Let''s take this nice and slow, shall we?"

    "Darling, don''t speak as if we''re in the middle of having sex."

    "Not everything is about sex."

    "Everything is about sex." He affirmed, rendering her speechless.

    Aries looked at him dead in the eye. "What are we talking about again?"

    "It''s about, uhбн hah! Never mind." He grinned andughed, patting her shoulders lightly. "Let''s forget about it and continue our lovely stroll. We''re like elders, spending the remainder of our days in strolling."

    "бн"

    In the end, Aries dragged her feet while he was holding her hand, guiding her in a spot located deep in the garden. She kept ncing up at him, sighing each time.

    ''Reallyбн we never had a normal conversation. But I guess that saved Lady Rosie from this man''s nonsense?''

 Chapter 63 Some Jokes Were Half-Meant

    "I didn''t know there''s ake in this ce."

    Aries wowed, sitting on the grass by the smallke deep in the Rose garden. Abel just took her to this ce and now, they were idling by theke, using Abel''s coat as the cloth she sat on while he was lying on his back.

    She turned her head to her right, staring at Abel''s bright countenance. He was lying on his back, using his arm as a head cushion. He looked so carefree for an emperor, skipping his duties just to roll on the grass and spend azy afternoon with her.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips, peeling her eyes to theke. "Do you think Sir Conan will know we are here?" she asked, breaking the silence between them.

    "He will, but it will take a while," he repliedzily, eyes still closed. "Very nice weather... I feel like I will literally melt if I rxed even more."

    ''Just melt,'' was what she wanted to tell him. But, like usual, she kept her thoughts to herself. She had already said many sarcastic remarks to him. She was afraid another sarcastic remark would shorten her life span.

    "Do you alwayse here?" she asked once again, looking around at this oasis hidden in the garden. She took it back. The main garden in the emperor''s pce wasn''t the best. The garden in the Rose pce was.

    "Nope."

    "Why not?" Aries raised a brow, casting him a look.

    Abel slowly opened his eyes, and his gaze instantly caught her. "I rarely left my throne." The side of his lips curled up in a smirk while her brows furrowed.

    Didn''t he mean he rarely left his office? At this point, Aries didn''t have the energy to spare to crack the hidden riddles in his words. She was simply training herself to take his words in as they were. Overanalyzing his every statement was just ruining her thoughts.

    "Darling, let me tell you about myself." She shifted her eyes back to him, staring at him while the shadows of the tree danced on his face. "I am the type of person who will go mad if I stop doing something. The devils in my head will start whispering and they''re very annoying."

    "What you''re doing now is theplete opposite, though." She pointed at with innocence in her eyes.

    He smirked. "I know, right?"

    "What does that mean?" she frowned, a little confused. If Abel was someone who wouldn''t stop doing anything to distract himself, why was he with her? Asking that question internally made her press her lips as she looked away.

    ''It''s not because he''s with me, right?'' she wondered, disliking the conclusion she had in her head. ''That''s cheesy and out of his character.''

    Abel let out a low chuckle while staring at her rear. Even though she wasn''t saying what was inside her mind, he could tell she was in denial with her expression. It was not like he was that kind to tell her the reason. On second thought... he might.

    His brow arched as an idea arose in his mind. "It means being with you calms me," he confessed, watching her face stiffen. His lips stretched even broader, seeing horror appear on her face.

    "Maybe I had fallen in love with you and I didn''t realize it until now that I am saying it." He uttered sincerely. "Hmm... I love you."

    Meanwhile, Aries turned her head to him like a robot. She nearly heard the creak of her neck as she did. But in contrast with his tone, his expression was yful. That instant, she knew he wasn''t serious. How could she fall for that dreadful confession?!

    p Aries red at him, raising her hand to show him how she balled it into a fist. "I will risk my life and strike you once." Who cared about death? At this rate, she would die due to a heart attack.<sub> </sub></anda>

    "Darling, calm down!" he gasped, wide-eyed, and raised both his hands to surrender. "It''s a bad idea. Don''t hit me!"

    Abel raised his brows as she just red daggers at him. Her re was digging a hole into his eyes, but he refrained from talking and simply watched the change of air around them.

    "Do you always spat out words as if they mean nothing?" she inquired after some time, clicking her tongue in irritation. "Words have their power! They can hurt someone in a spot where weapons would never reach."

    "Darling, aren''t you cute? Words only have power when a person had power." Abel quirked a brow, always happy to argue with her with their different opinions. It was always fun for him.

    "Do you think those at rock bottom can say their words have power? I bet they will agree with me. Because someone who is powerless was never heard, no matter how much they yell or beg. No one listens to someone who hasn''t proven their worth."

    "That''s the point." She asserted while putting down her hand. "You are the emperor. Hence, your words are your bond. Your words alone can save tens of thousands of people or wipe out a kingdom."

    Aries paused as she exhaled sharply, peeling her eyes away from him. "Don''t joke with me like that."

    "Why?" he propped his elbow to sit upright, tilting his head, eyes on her. "Don''t tell me my words touch a part of your heart that -- "

    Before he could finish his sentence, her palm covered his lips. She sported a fake smile to hide her irritation.

    "Your Majesty, I consider your words as precious as golds," she chuckled, but the vein in her temple protruded. "Let''s save them up, hmm?"

    His brows rose, reaching for her wrist to put it down. "Sure," he said. "But then again, I was being serious --"

    Again, both her palms covered his lips while she red at him. Aries wanted him to drop the subject, but the more she wanted it to stop, the more he was eager to continue it. He grinned behind her palm, pulling his head away.

    "What I''m saying is..." he trailed off andughed when she fumed and tried to cover his mouth once again.

    "Golds! It''s raining gold! Let''s not waste them бк ack!" was what she kept yelling while trying to stop him from spewing nonsense. But as she did, Abel grabbed her wrist, causing her to fall onto him.

    A soft gust of wind blew past them, changing the chaotic atmosphere into a standstill.

    Her eyes dted as her face hovered a palm length over his face. Aries held her breath, hearing her own heartbeat in her ear. Abel, on the other hand, sported a smile as a glint flickered across his sharp eyes.

    "Why, darling? Did my words, perhaps, sway you?" he dawdled, smirking at the beautiful sight before him. "My feelings are my responsibility, not yours. Don''t let it sway you. You can''t handle it."

    Abel lifted his head and tilted it a little to im what he was in here for; her lips. This time, though, he kept his eyes open while staring at her dting eyes. He smirked against her lips at her reaction before he closed his eyes.

    ''I was serious, though,'' he whispered in his head that just drifted and would never be spoken again.

 Chapter 64 The Cats Curiosity Was Awaken

    <strong>"My feelings are my responsibility, not yours. Don''t let it sway you. You can''t handle it."</strong>

    Aries ran her hands through her hair before tugging her scalp in distress. She would go insane with Abel''s voice lingering in her head, repeating the words that came out of his mouth today.

    After kissing her with such passion, Abel just smiled from ear to ear, like usual. She couldn''t speak a word when Conan and Isaiah, the grand duke of Fleure, arrived in theke. Their objective was obvious, and they just did that.

    Isaiah and Conan ended up dragging Abel back to his office, while thetter had this stupid grin on his face. She could still remember the ridiculous scene unfolding before her, recalling Abel waving at her whilst being dragged away.

    But that wasn''t what put her in this situation. It was the words that were already uttered carelessly before Conan and Isaiah arrived. Now, she was a mess.

    "Why are you even getting stressed about something you shouldn''t? Jokes are half-meant, sure. But so do lies. He just spews a sweet lie and that''s it." she murmured, letting go of her hair. She turned her head to the desk inside her chambers, flinging her legs out of the bed, and marched towards it.

    ''I should just study. I amgging behind our lesson.'' She thought, plopping down on the chair and opening a book. ''If hees, hees. Torturing my brain by studying is more productive than letting Abel kill it!''

    Aries huffed, eyes on fire with determination. She mmed her hands against the desk lightly, shaking her head as she refocused on studying. It didn''t take that long when all unnecessary thoughts disappeared from her head as she read history. It was the first book she picked up.

    Well, Aries and Conan weren''t actually tackling the empire''s history these past few weeks. They were too busy with other unimportant things. Hence, it wasn''t really a bad coincidence that she picked up the book of history.

    She already read a few parts of the book. But since Abel mentioned the first emperor, Aries was curious. He said the first emperor had a family, so she wanted to confirm if she missed the detail.

    "Huh?" Aries titled her head to the side after reading the first emperor''s biography and how this empire was established.

    In the book, way back in the past, when Haimirich was just a small kingdom ruled by a foolish king. It was said that the king was selfish and only inflicted misery on his subjects. When the king''s deed had reached unspeakable inhumanity, a rebellion arose.

    A genius and kind man led the rebellion. It was said that it was a turning point in Haimirich. The foolish king had fallen, executed in front of the seething masses. That king''s death marked the beginning of the rule of the Bloodworth n.

    The man who led the rebellion imed the throne. His name was... Abel.

    From then on, the Haimirich kingdom flourished until it became an empire. It continued to grow significantly. There were no records of the first emperor having a family. If anything, there was just a short detail about his marriage.

    It was more like a summarization. The first emperor married a princess from another kingdom. It was said that the first emperor and the empress lived a happy marriage. Unfortunately, she died birthing their son. Due to his love for his empress, the emperor didn''t marry anymore.

    Instead, he focused on making the empire great for his heir. The first emperor died a natural death at old age. His son took charge and continued the legacy of his father.

    "I guess he is lying," Aries murmured after reading the article regarding the first emperor. She cupped her jaw, fingers ying with the tip of the book.<sub> </sub>

    <o>,m "Now that I think about it, the emperors always had Abel in their first name." She rocked her head, reviewing the names of the emperors in this empire in her mind. "It looks like it''s a reminder for the next emperor not to tarnish the name, Abel."</o>

    She frowned. Abel was doing just that, wasn''t he? Tarnishing his own name to his heart''s content?

    A shallow sigh slipped past her lips as her eyes glossed over the book. Her eyes lingered on the short summarization of the first emperor''s marriage.

    "How strange..." she mumbled, reading the topic regarding the second emperor of the empire. After skimming through it, Aries checked a few more emperors.

    They all had inmon. All information regarding their impresses wasn''t that detailed. Just a quick summarization. For some unknown reason, Aries simply nced at the rest and just read the part of the previous emperor''s marriage.

    "There are barely details..." she whispered with furrowed brows. "Not just that. But all the previous empresses either died of childbirth or an illness."

    ording to the book, the emperors followed in the first emperor''s footsteps. Hence, they don''t take in another empress other than their deceased wife. And all the people birthed in the royal family were always a boy.

    It was almost perfect for Aries. But in a way, it was a little ridiculous.

    "All these years... every empress birth a boy? Never once a girl?" she wondered and cocked her head. "Were they cursed or what? But if they are, shouldn''t it be more believable if they stop the bloodline entirely?"

    Aries rubbed her chin because the more she dwelled in the empire''s history, the more questions rose from her head. Although she had tackled this with Conan, they focused on different aspects rather than the love life of the emperor.

    "It sounds perfect, but... it''s almost too perfect and convenient. It''s unbelievable." She nodded in agreement, leaning back against the chair. "Either way, that''s history. No one can rewrite it."

    There was a moment of silence as she gazed at the open book. All the emperors almost had a simr story of ascending the throne, making the empire great, marrying a princess, gaining a son, the death of their empresses, and then the emperors living the remainder of their days all alone. Then repeat.

    The only difference was their ruling and achievements.

    "Is this the reason Abel hadn''t taken in an empress despite the pressure?" she wondered while rubbing her chin. "At his age, he should have got an heir now. Did he also notice the fate of the emperors that he wants to stray from it? He''s the only tyrant in the empire to ever exist. Considering his personality, he would rather be alone than take a wife just to get his heart broken upon her death."

    Aries pondered about it before she shook her head. "Enough history. Time to sleep." Studying was effective for her since she didn''t think about Abel''s advances to her. She closed the book, blew themp, and hid under the nket to sleep.

    Little did she know, being too smart wasn''t always the safest route. For sheбн had taken an interest in something she shouldn''t.

 Chapter 65 Random People

    "Marquess Vandran?"

    Aries furrowed her brows while staring at the entrance of the study. There, by the door, was Dexter entering instead of Conan!

    Dexter chortled, cing a few books on top of the round oak table. "Sir Conan told me to cover for him for the meantime since His Majesty needs his help in another matter."

    "Ohh, that''s why..." Aries rocked her head in understanding, watching Dexter drag the chair opposite her before he sat down. When Dexter was settled, he raised his brows and cast her a look.

    "You are not this excited during our lessons." He pointed out the obvious. "Does literature bore you? Or was it me?"

    "Marquess Vandran, I''m just surprised. That''s all."

    "Really?" He nodded, half-convinced by herme excuse. "Well, anyway, he didn''t tell me what topic you are tackling before His Majesty dragged Sir Conan with him. So, please bear with me for a moment."

    Aries cupped her cheek. "Actually, I don''t know either. Sir Conan and I had been busy on something else."

    "Something else... you mean about your recement?" he asked out of in curiosity. Aries simply nodded as an answer while Dexter took a deep breath, leaning back against the chair.

    "Then shall we do nothing but that?"

    This time, she shook her head. "I actually have some questions. I did some readingst night to refresh my memory and..." she trailed off, hesitant to tell Dexter since this wasn''t his major lesson.

    "And?" he tilted his head to the side. "Don''t worry, Lady Aries. What Sir Conan knew, I also know them. If it''s about the history of the empire, then I think I am more than qualified to teach history as if I witnessed everything. Our family is one of the oldest ns to serve the royal family for generations."

    "Then... it''s about the previous monarchs." She cleared her throat because his argument made sense.

    "What about them?"

    "ording to history, the royal family only bare one child every generation." She spoke the obvious which Dexter immediately grasp. He let out a shortugh while nodding his head.

    "You''re wondering if the royal family is stricken by a curse?"

    "Well, I thought of that first. But then again, if it''s a curse that befell the royal family, why isn''t a curse to stop the bloodline entirely? Of course, that is not what I wish. But I just don''t understand." she exined and asked at the same time. She kept thinking about itst night, so she was determined to find some answers to regain some peace.

    Dexter arched a brow as the side of his lips stretched slightly. "Hmm... that caught me off guard. How do I exin this?" he crooned, pondering for a believable answer to her question.

    "You can say that the curse isn''t about wiping out the monarch but about continuing the punishment through the next generation," Dexter exined vaguely after a minute of silence, watching her brows knit. "There was this old rumor that the first emperor was cursed and all his offspring. That was for them to live the rest of their lives alone. "

    "If you think about it, stopping the Bloodworth''s bloodline through a curse makes more sense. But if the caster had a different motive, then keeping the bloodline going makes more sense. What I''m saying is, if a person holds a deeper grudge against someone, they want them to suffer and his offspring," he continued in an informative voice. "Death will be too easy. I suppose Lady Aries can understand that if she despised someone to the core."

    Aries bit her tongue as hisst remarks just backed up everything. If she could curse the crown prince of the Maganti Empire, she wouldn''t wish for his demise. In fact, she would keep him alive for as long as possible and make his life a living hell.<sub> </sub>

    But that was just the darker part of her thoughts. Not that she was thinking or nning to go against an entire empire all on her own. She wasn''t dumb.

    In other words, she understood Dexter''s exnation since he brought up her personal matters in it. Whoever cursed the first emperor surely abhor him.

    "Though I am surprised, Lady Aries. I didn''t think you will dwell on this subject or pay more attention to it since it is insignificant."

    "Marquess Vandran, how is the matter regarding the previous empress insignificant?"

    Dexter let out a dryugh. "Because the books said it is insignificant. There are barely any records about the previous empresses."

    "But it is still recorded in the books. So there is some value in it." She argued with a shrug, but Dexter didn''t argue with her. He also shrugged, since he knew where he stood and some facts weren''t needed to mention; he believed.

    "Anyway, you shouldn''t dwell on such matters. Focus on the customs and progress of the empire, since that is more important than some random people." He smiled while she frowned at his chosen words. "I am saying this not because I didn''t want to tell you more. Being curious is a good trait, but sometimes, curiosity kills too."

    "You make it sound ominous."

    ''Because it is, Lady Aries. The more you know, the more you will understand how distorted the history you knew.'' Dexter nced at the history book in front of him. It was not that this book contains nothing but lies.

    But she was focusing on something she shouldn''t. It would work for him either way. He was just warning her just so she wouldn''t me him in the future.

    "I simply don''t want you to waste your time and energy." His smile remained despite the brief distraction, waiting for her to look at him. "His Majesty announced he won''t be taking an empress..." a brief smirk appeared on his face, noticing that her interest increased.

    "... since he already has an heir," he continued.

    "Pardon?" her brows furrowed at the bomb he suddenly dropped without prior''s notice.

    "You don''t know?" he feigned ignorant as if he didn''t know she was unaware of this. "That His Majesty already had a son out of wedlock?"

    Her face was nk, trying to process this news she never heard before. Neither Conan nor Abel mentioned this to her. Not even the maids! How could everyone go on with their lives as if there wasn''t a prince in this pce?!

    "Ahh... that is because the crown prince is kept in the forbidden pce opposite the Rose Pce," Dexter exined after getting the gist of her confusion. "In there, he was being taught everything he needs to know. No one, aside from the servants His Majesty had handpicked, had ever seen the prince''s face. It was because he was his only son and the heir to the throne. So, everyone is protecting him until the time His Majesty leaves this world."

    A glint flickered across his eyes for a split second. "No one talks about it, but the crown prince''s existence ismon knowledge. You can ask His Majesty about that. I''m certain he wouldn''t mind if you''re the one who is asking."

    Aries refocused her eyes on him, mouth opening and closing like a fish, but no words came out. This was a bit surprising. But then again, Abel had a promiscuous lifestyle. It would be even strange if he didn''t have a bastard.

    ''But what is the forbidden pceбн? Is that the same as the cold pce?'' there were many questions left in her mindбн just like what Dexter nned.

 Chapter 66 The Forbidden Palace

    Dexter reminded Aries not to go to the forbidden pce, but that was just something that fueled her curiosity. She never heard of Abel having a son. Aries wanted to see what kind of ce the crown prince''s dwelling was, yet no one was talking about it.

    ''Just a peek,'' was what she told herself repeatedly until she reached the said pce. Dexter didn''t tell her everything about the crown prince aside from the general details. Nevertheless, he dropped the important details she needed.

    The first thing she noticed was that the closer she was to the forbidden pce, the fewer people were in the surrounding. Hence, Aries went straight ahead until she arrived in the ce where the crown prince was at.

    She stood behind the tree not far away from the small mansion inside this imperial pce. It was unlike the Rose pce where Aries was staying at. The Rose pce was well-maintained, surrounded by all sorts of flowers, and just... a glorious ce to look at.

    The king''s pce, on the other hand, was just as busy as the street. Even so, each individual was considered a talent who was contributing significantly to the empire. It was not as elegant as the Rose pce, but it gave this feeling that was just empowering.

    Meanwhile, this forbidden pce, situated at the end of the imperial pce, was smaller than Aries expected. It looked more like a mansion; she would understand if it was a tower. But a mansion? A mansion that appeared haunted with untrimmed grass, withered trees, and emanated nothing but gloom and dread.

    Just the sight of it caused all the hairs in her body to raise. She couldn''t believe her eyes.

    "A boy is living in this ce?" she wondered in disbelief, taking a step back. "Is there even a person inside?"

    From the outside, it looked more abandoned. Were they certain a prince lived there? Were there servants? It didn''t look like it, though.

    "There are no movements inside," she mumbled, standing on her toes as if that would help her see through the foggy windows. "Did Abel make his son stay in here? For real? No, no. That shouldn''t be surprising, considering his personality. But... the Rose pce is even better than this ce."

    There were many things that hovered over her head while staring at the seemingly haunted mansion. The first conclusion she had was that Abel was training his son''s mentality. To live in such a scary ce would surely strengthen a person''s will to survive.

    It could also teach the crown prince to live with only a few people. In that case, he would learn how to be independent. All sorts of ''benefits'' hovered over her head. Considering that the prince''s father was a tyrant, many would target his son.

    But still... was this totally alright?

    ''It''s not your business, Aries,'' her subconscious mind reminded her in a sassy tone. ''It''s not your damn business. Let this go.''

    She balled her hand into a fist and took a deep breath. "It''s not my problem. I will be leaving this ce and I''m doing good until now. There''s no need to oveplicate things, alright?" she nodded in understanding, patting her chest when she was almost convinced.

    But when she raised her eyes again and set them back on the mansion, another sigh slipped past her lips. She clutched her fist tighter until they trembled, jaw tightening as she clenched her teeth.<sub> </sub>

    "I shouldn''tplicate things as they were." She nodded once again. "Pretend I was never here and never knew about his son."

    Aries stabilized her breathing and shut her eyes as she turned around. But just as she did, she hit her forehead against someone''s chest. Her eyes instantly popped open as panic instantly swelled within her chest. Herplexion grew pale, only to sigh in relief upon raising her head.

    "Marquess Vandran!" she eximed, barely stopping herself from pping his chest for the scare. "Why would you suddenly appear like that?! I almost got a heart attack!"

    Dexter blinked innocently. "I''m sorry for surprising you, Lady Aries. That wasn''t my intention. I was simply concerned since you seemed you weren''t listening to my warnings," he exined, watching her pat her chest while ring daggers at him.

    "Good riddance..." she continued to pat her chest while heaving deep breaths.

    "Lady Aries, I told you don''t go here," he scolded in a gentle manner, tilting his head to the side slightly. "Remember what I told you? Being curious is not a bad trait, but curiosity also kills."

    "I just want to take a peek." She frowned dejectedly. "I never heard that His Majesty had a son. So..."

    "So?" His brows rose, studying her hesitation to continue. "Did youe here thinking he might help you with your situation? Or were you curious what kind of child His Majesty produced? Have you considered this ce might have tons of traps and you will never get out? There are endless possibilities that could''ve happened to you if you''re not careful."

    Dexter sighed while Aries kept her mouth shut while being scolded. He scratched his head slightly, letting out a sharp exhale.

    "Anyway, let''s head back before anyone sees us in here," he suggested, waiting for her to raise her head. "Repeat what you told yourself. Pretend you were never here and you don''t know about it."

    "Alright." she reluctantly nodded, but that was not enough to convince him she truly meant it. He didn''t point it out, though. So Dexter turned his back against her and trudged away.

    Aries let out a sigh as she truly deserved that scolding. She followed his trail, stopping only after a few steps. She looked back at the mansion, eyes full of concern.

    ''My heart feels heavy...'' she thought internally before peeling her eyes away from it to follow Dexter.

    With a seed of concern and curiosity nted in her heart, it would only be a matter of time before it grows its root and sprouts. But the truth was beyond her imagination and... could cost her life. But Aries didn''t know that her curiosity would lead to a path of no return.

    It was a trap.

 Chapter 67 Crown Princess

    Aries stood on the balcony of her chambers, eyes in the direction where the forbidden pce was located. The Rose pce and the Forbidden pce were coast-to-coast, very far away from her.

    The thought of Abel''s son never left her mind. Not that she minded if he had a son or a dozen. But Aries was concerned about the child''s welfare. This news wouldn''t bother her so much if this prince''s dwelling was just as good as the Rose pce. Even half as good as the said ce.

    But it wasn''t.

    It was dested, abandoned, and eerie. Sadly, this was something she shouldn''t touch. The child was not her son. It was unfortunate that his father was a crazy tyrant.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips. "In this night... I wonder if he is alright?" she wondered, sighing for the umpteenth time.

    Perhaps it was because the prince was around the same age as her little sister, ric, that she was bothered. It reminded her that ric disliked the dark. She remembered how many times ric came into her room, wanting to sleep together because she was always afraid of having nightmares.

    Even though ric had her own chambers, she often snuck out in the middle of the night to sleep in Aries''s room. So she couldn''t help but worry about the young prince. Although he was a boy, he was still a child.

    Was there anyone who was there to hold the prince''s hands? Aside from ghost? Was he given enough warmth? Obviously, Aries wasn''t expecting Abel to act as a proper father. But still... his affection would greatly affect his son.

    If a child was neglected, the servants would also neglect the child. That was the fate of nobles and children in the royal family. The life they would live was determined by their parent''s affection.

    The reason Aries''s father loved his children equally. She came from a warm family with loving parents. But it was no news for her to know these kinds of things since she was often involved in the matters of the kingdom and was active in the high society.

    "I never truly thanked Father for..."

    "Boo!" Aries jumped in surprise when Abel whispered in her ear, looking back at him with wide eyes. "Wow, darling. Are you scared of ghosts?"

    Abel took a step back, walking beside her and then hopping on the railings. He sat down on the railing casually, feet inside the terrace. He nted his palm on his rear, tilting his head to the side.

    "You never truly thanked Father for?" he repeated her words, blinking innocently since she stopped when he gave her a jump scare.

    Aries let out a deep exhale, staring at the man who nearly gave her a heart attack. "For loving his children equally."

    "Oh..." he rocked his headnguidly. "Was he kind?"

    "Very much." She leaned her arms against the railing, casting Abel, who was sitting on it, a look. "Father is the kindest person I met with a heart of gold. Sometimes, I wished he was a little selfish."

    "Because if he is, Rikhill will not get ruined?" he guessed with an insensitive tone. At this point, she was already used to his insensitive remarks, since they were the truth. So she nodded, closed-lipped.

    "He always tells us that before being a king, he is our father. A father who would do anything to protect his children," she shared; something she never shared to anyone after the ruin of her homnd. She looked ahead, inhaling the night breeze that was blowing past her.<sub> </sub>

    "Maybe because of that, we were all raised stubborn. Unlike most royal families, we had too much freedom. We were given equal education with the crown prince. Endless opportunities await us, and we''re free to pursue anything." She smiled, eyes softening as she recalled those times in the past. "It doesn''t matter if we want to be a knight, a musician, or be a schr. For as long as we can and proved we can, we''re allowed to be whoever we want. There is no special treatment for us as well."

    "Huh... lucky."

    She smiled and cast him a quick look. "We were lucky, indeed."

    p "So, what kind of career were you trying to pursue?" he asked out of in curiosity, staring at her side profile. The side of her lips curled up into a smile, ncing at him one more time.</anda>

    "The throne." Abel''s brows elevated as she peeled her eyes away from him. "The crown prince, my big brother, is too kind. I''m not saying he isn''t capable, but actually, he is not that ambitious. He is like Father."

    "But you are?"

    Aries shrugged as she grinned. "You can say I was once ambitious. Before Rikhill had fallen victim to the hands of the Maganti Empire, I was granted permission to fight my older brother. We didn''t hate each other, though. If I won, that means I was more capable. But if I lose, then I wasn''t as good as I thought I was."

    "You sound like a willful youngdy. I like it." He grinned, enjoying this free storytelling of the old Aries with her own initiative. "Did you win before that tragic series of misfortune?"

    She pressed her lips into a thin line and shifted her attention to him. "Guess."

    "Mhmm..." He scratched his chin, narrowing his eyes while studying her expression. Aries hid any traces that could hint him of the answer. So he simply had to trust his instincts.

    The side of his lips curled up, crossing his arms. "Now that makes more sense."

    "What made more sense?" she inquired, tilting her head to the side.

    "My darling, my dearest sweet bully, isn''t that the reason the entire nation fought for you?" he cocked his head to the side, speaking in a knowing tone while shing her a proud grin. "It just didn''t make sense when Rikhill was ruined just because a princess refused a marriage proposal. There should be a deeper reason than that, am I correct, my crown princess?"

    She bit her lower lip, peeling her eyes away from him. Yet, he giggled at her reaction. She neither confirm or denied it, but it was already obvious.

    "You made me proud." He poked her cheek with his index. "So amazing."

    Aries frowned as he kept his finger on her cheek, casting him a look. She couldn''t get mad at him as soon as she saw the pride in his eyes as if he was so proud of her.

    "Of course, I am amazing." She cleared her throat, looking away. However, even if she hid it, Abel still noticed how the tip of her ear was painted in red.

 Chapter 68 He Would Fulfill Her Wish One Day

    "That calls for a celebration!"

    Abel suddenly pped after a moment of silence. Aries furrowed her brows when he suddenly stood on the railings. She couldn''t even remind him to watch his step, because he took tiny steps to her. Without prior''s notice, Abel sat down in front of her while she drew her head back.

    "I am... looking at the night''s view," she said in a dead tone because now he was in front of her, blocking the view. His legs swung back and forth in her rear.

    "Oh, darling. I am the better view!" he intoned shamelessly, grinning from ear to ear. "Just looking at me will surely make you rx."

    ''More like the opposite of that word'' was what she wanted to tell him. "What calls for celebration?" she asked, not dwelling on the nonsense he just spewed shamelessly.

    "A celebration for your sess, obviously?" he answered as a matter-of-fact. "It seems Rikhill fell into ruin before you were announced as the official heir to the throne. No wonder there were no records about it. So, we''ll have to celebrate."

    "There''s no need for that." She clicked her tongue, straightening her back. "What''s there to celebrate? My people died because of me. They nearly erased thend I was born and raised from the world''s map."

    "Aww..." he frowned, shoulders rxing.

    Aries studied his sulking expression, sighing slightly. "But thanks." She sported a meek smile. "I appreciate your intentions, but there''s no need. My ambition cost everyone''s life. I hated myself for that, but... thank you for thinking it is something to celebrate about. That''s good enough for me."

    "Darling." Abel tilted his head to the side, smacking his lips. "You are so low maintenance."

    A sigh escaped his mouth as he tucked her hair behind her ear. "I mean, I''ve checked your expenses in here and you never asked for anything. You never spent a dime or asked for any dish in particr. It makes me sad."

    "I''m not low maintenance. It''s just that there was no need to spend more since the food was great. The clothes as well. Thanks to you," she replied in a knowing tone.

    "That''s what cheap people say." He chuckled with his closed lips, nting his palms on her shoulders to turn her around. "Since you don''t want to celebrate your achievements in the past, I''ll give you something important instead."

    Her brows furrowed as she gazed down. Abel carefully put a ne around her, and Aries held the ''pendant'', which was a tiny bottle. Meanwhile, as Abel locked the link, he spoke.

    "It is neither gold nor diamond, but keep this with you at all times." His voice was low, with his soft eyes on her nape. "If anything happened, break this ss. If anyone poisoned you, wounded, or just needs help, drink it."

    When he finished locking the custom ne, Aries pulled it lightly. She was correct. It was a tiny bottle with red liquid inside. Was this some sort of antidote? But he said if she was wounded or needed help, that meant this was some sort of general potion that could cure everything?

    "It looks like blood," she murmured, turning around to face him again. "Is this potion?"

    "It''s better than that." He winked and grinned arrogantly.

    "Better than that? Is this some kind of medicine the empire discovered? How can it help me if I needed help?" she asked, knowing that this empire''s discoveries and inventions were too advanced. The reason it was the richest continent.

    "Also, what kind of situation can this be helpful?"

    "Any situation that is crucial," he answered with a shrug. "Especially life and death. Drink it. Or you can just call my name and I will be there to save you. Even if you''re at the ends of the world or at the deepest part of hell, I wille for you."

    Aries frowned as she patted his chest. "You always talk..." she trailed off when Abel continued to fall back after patting his chest. Her breath hitched as she grabbed his cor, pulling him back in panic.

    "Oh, my god...!" she gasped, feeling her heart race as he nearly fell from the balcony. She nearly killed him. Herplexion instantly turned pale, hands growing white cold from the slight mini heart attack.

    Meanwhile, the man who nearly fell from the balcony blinked his eyes. His face was only a palm length away from hers, giving him a special view at the fright dominating her face.

    ''Did she think I will fall?'' he wondered, blinking cluelessly. ''Heh... but I just want to stretch.''<sub> </sub>

    Either way, Abel smiled and took advantage of this situation by staring at her up close. She looked so scared. It made him want to think she was scared of ''losing'' him. But of course, he also knew she was terrified to take the me for his death. He still tossed thetter idea and just believed the former conclusion.

    "Pretty," hemented, catching her attention as she slowly refocused her eyes on him. "Were you scared that I will die?"

    "Of course..." she breathed out, stabilizing her heart rate. "Falling from here will kill you, obviously. I don''t wish for your death."

    "Then what do you wish for?" he asked in a seductive voice, cocking his head lightly. Abel slowly held her wrist that was holding his cor, leaning his face closer.

    Aries gulped as she held her breath, staring directly into his eyes. The more she stared at those crimson eyes, she felt like a force was drawing her in.

    Her lips parted. "I... wish to reverse the time so I can save everyone," came out a soft, shaking voice. "Obviously, that wish is impossible. Even His Majesty cannot do that."

    "It is, indeed, a tough wish to fulfill." He nced up to ponder. "But not impossible."

    "Tsk. It''s impossible." She clicked her tongue and let his cor go. Still, he didn''t let go of her wrist as he yfully kept them on his chest.

    ''It''s not impossible. I know someone who can do that, but never mind.'' A smirk appeared on his lips. "Heh... let''s stay here for a while. Do you want to jump from here?"

    "Abel!"

    "Hahaha! Come on. It''ll be fun!"

    "Yes, and we''ll die. Nice idea, wise guy!" she panted in distress, grinding her teeth as she wriggled her wrist from his grip. While she did, Abelughed andughed until he grinned evilly. He abruptly let her wrist go, upper body falling back out of the balcony.

    Time seemed to stop for Aries as her mouth fell open, standing frozen on the spot. Abel was falling, she thought, right before her eyes.

    "Abel!" out of panic, Aries hugged his waist to keep him from falling. She only realized the real situation when hisughter reached her ear.

    "Hahaha! Oh, darling. I might try dying every single day just so you will hold on to me like this." Abelughed whilst holding his stomach as if he wasn''t hanging upside down with only his legs hooked on the railing.

    As heughed evilly, Aries slowly drew her head back. Her eyesnded on his leg on either side of her. As soon as she realized he did that on purpose, she red at him.

    ''Let''s see if you can stillugh if I took off your shoes and tickled you.'' She snapped her tongue. But she wasn''t that heartless to actually push him to his death. Aries took a deep breath and still tightened her arms around his hips.

    "Abel! Stop this already!" she eximed in worry. "This is not a nice joke!"

    Hisughter subsided, staring at the world that was upside down. "Aries," he called with a genuine smile shing on his face.

    "Don''t let me go, darling. You''re the only one I have." бк and the only person who could make him feel alive.

    "I won''t! Juste up here!"

    His eyes softened while listening to her voice. But instead of following her request, he closed his eyes and simply listened to her nagging.

    ''How niceбн'' he thought. ''Will you cry if I ever die? That would be nice to have someone to cry for me.''

 Chapter 69 The Day Before The Annual Celebration

    Aries life had been the recurring events of attending sses, having to deal with Abel''s crazy antics and whims, and changing gender just for the heck of it. The only thing that added to that routine was she started learning a dance for the start of the annual celebration for the empire''s founding.

    Other than that, Aries had all the time in the world to do whatever she wanted. Her rtionship with Abel kept growing better or worse бк depending on how a person viewed it. But for her, he had be more tolerable. Maybe because Abel had be busier than ever and there were days, she didn''t have to see him.

    The thought of the prince still lingered in her mind, though. But she tried her best not to probe about it. But the more she denied that knowledge existed in her head, the stronger the desire to know more.

    BAM!

    "Wow..." Conan pped, eyes on the straw target with an arrow pierced in the middle of its head. "Lady Aries, you''re on fire. Howe you''re so good at this?"

    Another three arrows plunged into the straw target,nding on different parts of it. One to its neck, forehead, and heart. If this was a real person, it was dead for sure.

    "Because I trained day and night?" she peeled her eyes away from the straw target to Conan, shrugging arrogantly. "I used to dream of being a knight. I might apply to be one once the founding celebration is over."

    Unlike the past weeks, Aries had forgiven Conan. How could she not? Conan begged her whilst hugging her thigh. He wouldn''t let her go unless she forgive him, so she did. Not that she truly despised him. Also, Conan prepared a list of candidates for her recement as a peace offering.

    So here they were now, back to being the best of friends!

    Aries tapped the bow against her shoulder while Conan skipped his steps to her. When he was a palm length away from her, he offered her a handkerchief to wipe her sweats.

    "Thank you," she expressed, epting the handkerchief to wipe her forehead. Meanwhile, Conan scanned her bare face, following her tracks to her special parasol to take a break.

    As they headed to the chairs and table under the parasol on the side of the training ground, he could not help but nce at her side.

    Aries wasn''t new to this training ground anymore. She woulde every day to practice archery, honing her precision to perfection. Although she had already shown great marksmanship from the get-go, one would wonder howe a princess like her was adept in archery.

    Sure. Sometimes, nobledies indulged in archery and horse riding as sports. At least, in Haimirich, these activities weremon fordies in high society. So his curiosity kept increasing every time he woulde in here and see her shoot.

    "Lady Aries, what do you mean by you trained day and night?" came out an inquiry as soon as she sat down on the intricate marble chair while Conan perched across from her. "It doesn''t look like it''s for a hobby, though."

    Aries nced at him before shifting her attention to the servant on standby, serving them cold beverages and snacks. Her lifestyle was surely a luxurious one.

    When the servants were done preparing the table, she set her eyes back to Conan. "I will tell you if you answer one question honestly."

    "What is it?" he tilted his head to the side.

    "Promise me you will not let anyone know about this." She narrowed her eyes solemnly, digging a hole in Conan''s eyes with only her gaze. "Swear in your honor, you will not disclose this to anyone."

    His brows furrowed but still nted his palm across his chest. "I promised in my life I will not tell a single soul about it and answer your question honestly!" he affirmed from the bottom of his heart.

    "Lady Aries, I don''t want to be your enemy. His Majesty only let me off because you told him. I now recognized your power." He breathed out, recalling the torturous days Abel had put him through. He only had the time to breathe when Aries forgave him and Abel returned his freedom like it was nothing.

    In his mind, Aries and Abel were in cahoots to punish him. The reason Conan gave up ying cupid. If Aries left, he wouldn''t stop her anymore. His good intentions and deeds were simply being returned with sufferings since Abel and Aries were both stubborn.

    Aries nodded in satisfaction, smacking her lips to muster the courage. "How is the prince being treated?" she asked, wanting to make sure this wouldn''t bother her anymore.<sub> </sub>

    "Pardon?"

    "His highness, the crown prince," she rified, casting the puzzled Conan a knowing look. "He was alright, right? It''s been bothering me, so answer me truthfully for my peace of mind."

    Conan blinked countless times, processing her words until his eyes dted. She thought this reaction was strange as if he didn''t know about it until she mentioned it. But Aries also argued internally that was because no one ever mentioned the crown prince. It could also be he was surprised that she already knew about Abel''s son.

    "How... did you...?" he trailed off because she answered him before he could finish.

    "Does it matter? I just want to know about the prince''s welfare. It''s not like it is surprising, knowing His Majesty''s lifestyle." She shrugged, tilting her head while staring at him curiously. "So?"

    He shook his head whilst clearing his throat. "Of course! He is the crown prince, so he is being given everything he needs."

    "Then why is his dwelling look abandoned?"

    "You went there?" he gasped in disbelief, leaning his face forward while holding the table. "Lady Aries, you went there?"

    "Uh... I took a peek...?"

    "Don''t! Ever do that again." her brows wrinkled at his strong reaction. "Lady Aries, listen to me very carefully. Whatever happens, even if the world is set on fire, stay as far away as possible from that ce. I''m saying this becauseбн that ce, I mean the crown prince, is not an easy person. If you think His Majesty is too much, then consider the prince a hundred times worse."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, staring at Conan''s solemn countenance. This was her first time seeing Conan sport this sort of expression. But for reasons unknown, there was this part of her that knew there was something he wasn''t telling her. Or rather, what he said was simply a part of the truth.

    "Alright." Even so, she nodded and didn''t probe about it. There were certain lines she knew she shouldn''t cross, and this one was it.

    He heaved a sigh of relief. "The forbidden pce might look like that, but the person who lives in it is someone you shouldn''t be worried about."

    "I understand. I''m just worried, but it seemed the mansion was like that because His Highness preferred it that way." She rocked her head, putting the benefit of the doubt at Conan''s affirmation.

    To Conan''s relief, Aries didn''t dwell on the matter anymore and it seemed she would listen to him. She was smart. Hence, she wouldn''t put herself in danger for no reason. She then proceeded to tell him her interest in archery back at Rikhill until the two of them nearly forgot the previous topic.

    The two of them spent some time chatting before they decided to return to their respective ces. Aries back to the Rose pce, while Conan to the king''s pce. He dropped her off at the royal pce first, chatting about the candidates for Abel''s next pet.

    "Thank you for walking me back, Sir Conan. I will send you the names that I would like to meet at tomorrow''s ball." She smiled, stopping in the open hallway connecting the Rose pce to another building.

    "Oh, alright." His eyes nced at the path behind her. "We will be very busy, so I might see you at the ball."

    "Yes, that''s alright." She smiled, performing a small curtsy. "I''ll see you tomorrow then."

    "Yes." Conan waved, watching her turn her back against him, and marched away. His smile remained and faded as soon as he pivoted on his heel.

    His eyes sharpened, glinting maliciously as he sauntered in the opposite direction. ''That Dexterбн! Is he sending Lady Aries to her death? No, that isn''t what''s important. I should keep an eye on that cunning fox. I bet that detestable Isaiah is in it, too! Howe I never heard of this until now?''

 Chapter 70 They Remember None

    "Your Majesty!"

    Conan barged inside the emperor''s office in high spirits, making Abel, who was sitting on the armchair with his leg over the other, blink cluelessly. On the long settee on the emperor''s left was Isaiah, eyes at Conan, who was stomping his way inside. Both men could only watch Conan until he stopped near them, hands on his hips.

    "My, Conan. I''ve never seen you this pissed for a long time." Abel pointed out in his usual quirky voice. "I''m interested. Did you bully him, Duke?"

    He cast Isaiah a look, and thetter frowned. Isaiah''s expression was enough for Abel to know he was innocent this time. So, he rubbed his chin, eyes back to Conan.

    "Did my sweet bully, bully you?" he asked, knowing Conan just returned from apanying Aries. This vassal of his kept pestering Aries just so he could get away from his work. What azy person.

    "Your Majesty, let''s kill the Grand Duke of Fleure!" Conan huffed, pointing at the innocent Isaiah, who had done nothing wrong yet.

    "Huh?" Abelughed, ncing at Isaiah. Thetter also pointed at himself in confusion.

    "Minister, what crime did Imit to deserve death?" Isaiah inquired calmly, not a bit offended by Conan''s ridiculous request.

    "You exist!"

    "..."

    Abel chortled delightfully, casting Isaiah a look while thetter frowned. "Poor Isaiah. Even I am amazed how you''re alive with all the hate you''ve been receiving."

    "Only His Majesty''s opinion matters to me." Isaiah shrugged indifferently, ncing at Conan. "My apologies, Minister. If my existence anger you, then may you die in anger."

    "Haha! Goodness... this is why they hate you!"

    "Your Majesty!" Conan''s frown grew worse as those two were talking as if they were treating his words as a child''s whims. "The Grand Duke is going against you! Howe Lady Aries went to the forbidden pce without us knowing? I think he is conspiring with Marquess Vandran! You know how the marquess abhors Your Majesty!"

    Conan spewed in one go, huffing and puffing. He red at Isaiah and then back at Abel. To his surprise, Abel didn''t show the slightest hint of surprise.

    "You knew?" Conan gasped in disbelief, feeling betrayed for not knowing.

    "Conan, is there anything in this pce that I don''t know of?" Abel cocked his head to the side, sporting an innocent look. "I am fond of Aries. So obviously, I knew her every movement, who she talks to, and what she might be thinking."

    "Your Majesty!"<sub> </sub>

    "Minister, didn''t you consider that Lady Aries might ept His Majesty for who he is?" this time, Isaiah''s remarks rendered Conan speechless. "Why are you suddenly rmed by it? Don''t you wish for her to know about it?"

    Conan''s mouth fell open, but no words came out. The grand duke had a point, but... that was just Conan''s wishful thinking. At the back of his head, he knew this wasn''t the perfect time for that. Was there a perfect time to tell Aries about the secret behind the empire, though?

    Abel let out a dryugh, shaking his head at Conan''s reaction. "Aries is smart, Conan. You keep underestimating her, which is quite disappointing. She will know if Dexter is using her to hurt me. Same with this matter about this son of mine. Aries wouldn''t dig into it because she will think it''s not something she should concern herself with." He paused, leaning backfortably, shrugging.

    "My darling might be bothered or intrigued, but she will keep it to herself. I wouldn''t find her interesting if she doesn''t force me to use my head," he added in a knowing tone, unbothered by this snake slithering around his beloved Aries. "Why don''t you calm down now?"

    For what reason he was letting Dexter freely? That was simple and quite ironic, but between Dexter and Abel, Aries was honestly safer with the former.

    "Butбн" Conan''s shoulder rxed as he sighed deeply. "бн isn''t it better to tell her? Marquess Vandran can be sneaky when he wants to. So, she might figure it out herself."

    "With His Majesty knowing about her every movement?" Isaiah arched a brow, almost convinced that Conan was in the season to be dumb. "Minister, I respect that you have grown fond of Lady Aries. However, she is not one of us and that is an unchanging fact. Humans are fickle. They had uttered countless promises, but have you remembered one that they fulfilled? I remember none."

    Silence instantly descended upon the room. Abel darted his eyes between Conan and Isaiah, keeping his upturned lips shut. Isaiah''s argument totally hushed Conan, which wasn''t an unfamiliar sight to behold.

    Their banters were one of the things that he found interesting to listen to. Conan wasn''t always this dumb, after all. He could be very intense and cunning if he wanted to, but it seemed he slightly changed after hanging out with Aries for the past months.

    Abel pped after the prolonged silence. "Conan, just focus on helping my darling in finding her recement. Weren''t you nning to screen the candidates at tomorrow''s ball? Since you''re not heavily invested in this annual celebration, just take a seat and listen. It''s still better that you know the general details."

    Conan let out another deep exhale, dragging his feet on the empty armchair. Abel was right. He should just focus on ''hanging out'' with her since she might leave the pce sooner.

    When Conan took a seat, Abel shifted his attention to Isaiah. Thetter snuck a nce at the gloomy Conan.

    "So, where were we again?" Abel inquired, waiting for Isaiah to refresh his memory.

    The Grand Duke cleared his throat, tossing unnecessary thoughts at the back of his head. "The members of the council seemed they were plotting something."

    "Ah, right! The meetingбн" Abel rocked his head lightly, lips stretching into an evil smirk. "Since the meeting is postponed, let''s amodate them in the forbidden pce? It seems those from that ind were showing interest in us."

    A smile dominated his face, linking his hands together. "Now that is what you call entertainment. I hope their scheme won''t disappoint me."

 Chapter 71 Choose Me

    The first day of the founding week arrived. Since the emperor was mandated to host a public ball, a lot of people attended. A long line of carriages from across the empire was lining up from outside the castle, waiting for their turn to get off.

    "I expect it to be packed, but I didn''t think the ball will be this huge," Aries murmured, staring at the line of carriage that stretched even from outside the gates from the window of her room. "Those from behind the line will surelyeter."

    It wouldn''t even be an exaggeration if others would arrive at thest minute. With the inspections and procedures before entering, others should just forget to attend tonight''s ball. But so far, Aries didn''t see any carriage that back out despite the traffic.

    "Does this happen every year?" she asked at the maid standing behind her, pivoting on her heel to face the middle-aged servant.

    "Yes, mydy. The first day of the founding week is always crucial since that''s the only time His Majesty attends any ball." Gertrude exined.

    Gertrude had been one of the permanent maids that were serving Aries recently. Before, the maids in charge to take care of her kept changing, taking turns. But for reasons unknown, Gertrude was tasked to be Aries''s personal maid. It was better since she was a lot older and was wiser, and Aries didn''t have to deal with new faces every single day.

    "Is that so?" Aries hummed, nodding and prancing towards the chair in front of the mirror.

    She looked at herself, letting out a sigh. Ever since she wanted to be Ariel, she didn''t have to wear light makeup or get her waist cinched with a corset. But now, she had to perform a dance for the emperor and some royal guests бк a tradition in Haimirich бк she had to be all feminine again.

    "I feel exhausted already," she murmured, ncing at Gertrude, who stood behind her to continue arranging Aries''s hair. "We''ve been doing this since morning."

    Gertrude chuckled. "Mydy, you are His Majesty''s person. Therefore, we have to make sure you will stand out."

    ''He just wants to tease me,'' Aries replied sarcastically in her head, imagining Abel to beughing evilly while giving out that order. ''He knew I dislike these long rituals.''

    "Gertrude, you know that it''s a masquerade ball, correct?" she inquired with a conflicted look on her face. "Even if you apply a heavy cosmetic, no one will know."

    "Mydy, even without cosmetics, you are already gorgeous. However, it is still better to doll you up since manydies will try to steal His Majesty''s attention." Gertrude looked at her with a helpless smile.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, keeping her thoughts to herself. This was the problem with other people; the people in this pce. They were treating her kindly because everyone knew Abel was so fond of her, so much so that he was willing to be a woman if she decided to embrace her masculinity.

    Right now, all the servants wanted to be stationed in the Rose pce because Abel was doting on Aries. To make the story short, the servants in the Rose pce had a higher sry and had a peaceful life. It was like a dream to be in this ce.

    Rumors were fast to spread, but Aries was ignoring everything. Still, sometimes, she could not help but feel pressured by the expectations of other people. Not that she was the type to please other people aside from Abel. But at the back of her head, many people were relying on her.

    If Aries lost the emperor''s affection, then the Rose pce would be neglected. Not just Aries, but even the servants working in this ce would be affected.

    ''How do I tell them they would be pampering a different pet soon?'' she wondered, stealing a nce at Gertrude. ''Well, it''s not like their lives would change.''

    Aries mentally shrugged her head. Nothing could ever stop her from proceeding to her ns. She would leave this pce. Tonight, she would study the candidates Conan told her about. Even if none of the candidates could fit all the criteria she had in her head, there would be many people from across the continent that would attend.<sub> </sub>

    Surely, with this much crowd gathered in the same ce, there would be one or two who could be interesting enough to keep up with Abel.

    Her eyes lowered as they softened at the thought. ''Tonight... will be myst night in this ce.'' She told herself, but her heart thumped loudly against her chest.

    Leaving never left her mind from the beginning until now. Even though Abel gave her the opportunity to escape and she didn''t, she was always determined to leave. It might be ridiculous since she gave up that golden opportunity, but it would be her conscience to leave without recing her.

    Despite all that, telling herself that tonight would be herst in this ce, an indescribable feeling swelled in her chest. She mentally walked down the memoryne, recalling her time the second she stepped foot in the empire until now.

    ''I didn''t realize until now that I had grown attached to this ce in a way,'' she thought and sighed faintly. ''Aries, stop thinking, will you?''

    The more she used her head, the more she felt unenthusiastic about it. Whether or not she admitted it, Haimirich had be a safe ce for her. The pce might be a dangerous ce to be in and Aries still had to drink a paltry amount of poison, there weren''t many terrible memories that were worthy of strengthening her resolution.

    If anything, the memories she created in this ce were... good ones. Even Abel''s unpredictable and crazy whims weren''t that terrible. She was just being stressed from time to time, but recently, she wasn''t afraid of throwing shades at him.

    "Mydy, are you alright?" Aries snapped her eyes, gazing at Gertrude''s reflection, only to see her worried expression. "You look a little dispirited. Are you feeling unwell?"

    "No. I''m fine." She shed a forced smile. "I''m just tired, but I''m alright."

    Gertrude smiled warmly and nodded, continuing on cing embellished pins on Aries''s hair. She raised her brows when Aries suddenly spoke out of nowhere.

    "I had fun," Aries whispered, staring at herself in the mirror. Unlike how she looked in Maganti, she looked her best in this ce.

    "Haimirich... is a ce that became my home and not another battlefield I must conquer." A subtle smile dominated her face, shifting her gaze to Gertrude. "I am grateful... is what I''m trying to say."

    "Mydy..."

    Suddenly, Aries snapped her eyes as they heard a knock from the window. She slowly turned her head in the noise''s direction, furrowing her brows when she saw the raven Abel owned. She tilted her head, raising her hand to stop Gertrude from arranging her hair.

    When Gertrude kept her hands off of her, Aries stood from her seat and marched towards the window. Her eyes instantlynded on the letter tied around the raven''s feet, opening the window to read what Abel sent her.

    "Choose me," she read under her breath, tilting her head to the side after reading the content of the letter. But just as she wanted to respond to his letter, the raven already flew away. Meaning, Abel wasn''t expecting a reply.

    "He wants me to choose him?" she wondered, blinking while keeping her eyes to where the raven flew away.

 Chapter 72 Found You

    The founding celebration in Haimirich was an asion that everyone looked forward to. From nobles to peasants, this time of the year was something everyone could benefit from. Nobles built connections to bring in more wealth and power,moners having the opportunity to attend a grand ball hosted by the emperor, and peasants receiving charitable meals from the noble houses supporting the monarch.

    Although the founding week was an auspicious asion that exhibited everyone''s unity and the empire''s peace, there was also one reason no one even spoke of.

    The founding week was the monarch''s way of demonstrating his power. And nobles showed their unbending loyalty and support for doing charities, giving out free meals to peasants, instilling the idea of thanking the emperor''s greatness.

    The festive atmosphere shrouded the entire empire, especially the capital. Only those people who had great power бк not from the empire бк in their names could tell how eerie this asion was. The Haimirich Empire was rich with the unity of everyone.

    But that was because, in this empire, they had one religion.

    Abel.

    People in the streets hailing the emperor''s name, wishing him to live a long life and protect them. Children sing in the streets about the greatness of the monarch with the lyrics glorifying him. Obviously, the citizens were proud to live in a rich country, and the poor were d that they weren''t being neglected.

    Therefore, despite having Abel as a tyrant, his words were just. If he said one must die, they must die, and they deserved it.

    It was blurring the lines between how they viewed him; was he an emperor? Or a god? Only a few believed he was a devil in disguise, but not a single one of them had the courage to voice that out.

    ''Will you look at her?'' Abel smirked, eyes on the woman in a stark white dress in the middle of the hall, dancing at the sound of the violin. Half of her upper face was hidden behind the heavily gilded Vian mask, highlighting her delicate jaw and attractive red lips.

    Her emerald locks followed her every spin, bouncing gracefully along with the rhythm. Every time she spun gracefully, like a swan, her ankle and calf would take a peek, showing her fair skin. A true swan, swaying, forcing everyone to focus on her.

    She was dazzling.

    It was hard to take his eyes off of her as if that would make one feel they weremitting an act of disrespect.

    ''I had seen many women do this ritual,'' Abel''s eyes behind his ck with gold swirls masquerade mask glinted with desire. ''But none had made it appear so beautiful. Surely, my darling is one of a kind.''

    He rocked his head lightly, holding a ss of wine whilst brushing shoulders with the crowd he was blending in. Since it was a masquerade, no one would know he wasn''t that person sitting on the throne. He nced at the person sitting on the throne, watching Aries dance from a great view.

    "He is always the boring person." Abel quirked a brow, hearing Dexter''s voice beside him. "How can he sleep while she is opening the hall before everyone can use it to dance?"

    The emperor in disguise peeled his eyes away from Isaiah and cast Dexter a look. Unlike Abel, whose mask covered his entire face. Dexter''s mask only covered his right face.

    "It''s good to see you too, Marquess. What a surprise, though. You never attended any balls in the past." The side of Abel''s lips stretched behind his Bauta, not worried that he was found out to be blending in with the crowd.<sub> </sub>

    Dexter shed a slight smile. "I heard my student will be performing. I was curious about how well she will do."

    "And interested in taking you as her partner?" Abel inquired in amusement.

    It was a tradition in Haimirich that before everyone could dance by group, someone had to dance a solo. That was for setting the mood. After Aries''s solo dance, she could pick anyone in this hall and be her partner where they would join the first group to dance.

    She could pick anyone. That included the emperor.

    "Will that be a problem, Your..." Dexter trailed off, ncing around them, and decided not to address Abel since he was in disguise. "Lady Aries can choose whoever she wants. I''m curious, though. Will she pick that person sitting over there? Will you be fine with that?"

    Abel cast Isaiah, standing as his proxy, a quick look. He smirked, "will I be fine with that? Who knows? I also wonder..." he didn''t finish his sentence as apuse exploded in the hall.

    He snapped his eyes. The violin still continued to y in the background while Aries curtsied, a gesture that her solo dance finally ended.

    As the music continued, everyone''s eyes were on Aries, including Abel. Now, she just needed to invite someone over to join her and the first group that would dance in the hall.

    ''I''m looking forward to Isaiah''s reaction once she chose him,'' Abel thought, nning to tease Isaiah and Aries once she figured out he used a proxy. Not that he didn''t want to dance with her, but he was curious if among these crowds, will Aries find him?

    Obviously, he didn''t have much hope for that. It was impossible. No matter how smart she was, she wouldn''t notice.

    The crowd held their breaths as Aries stood still, facing the person sitting on the throne. Thest time someone invited the emperor over for a dance, that person was banished from the empire the next day. Hence, no performer ever attempted to invite Abel for dance anymore.

    But Aries was staring in the emperor''s direction! Not many knew Aries was Abel''s pet except for those who were quick to hear the rumor in the pce. So, the opinions were split; some were looking forward to seeing if she had the guts to invite the ''emperor'' while others already expected her choice.

    To their surprise, Aries slowly peeled her eyes away from the man sitting on the throne and looked around. Even Abel arched a brow and within a second, their eyes met as if the crowd weren''t even there.

    "My, myбн" he dawdled, lips curling up as soon as he caught her lips stretching until her teeth showed. His eyes squinted in delight, watching her approach him.

    "Will I be fine with that?" he nced at Dexter and simpered. "I guess not."

    Shortly, gasped and murmuring was heard when Aries stopped in front of the man in the audience. She extended her arm, fingers flicked elegantly.

    "Found you."

 Chapter 73 The Farther They Were, The Closer They Were.

    It was not magic or someone helped Aries figure out the person sitting on the emperor''s seat wasn''t Abel. Despite the mask covering everyone''s faces, Abel would always stand out. It was not that Isaiah, who sat on Abel''s seat, didn''t give an intimidating aura, but it was just different.

    Perhaps it was because she had spent so much time with Abel that she could tell. That was why when she looked around, despite the sea of crowds and varieties of masks, one figure instantly caught her eyes. Aside from his towering figure and a mask covering his entire face, her heart knew it was him, Abel.

    "Found you." She grinned bewitchingly, waiting for him to take her hand. "Easy."

    "I''m ttered," came out a deep voice, reaching for her hand before she guided him in the middle. "Justбн how?" he asked as soon as they were in the middle, facing each other while waiting for the rest to join them.

    Aries shrugged. "I just know," she answered proudly, holding his hand to the side while the other was on his shoulder. Abel wrapped an arm around her waist, settling on her back.

    He carefully bent over and whispered in her ears. "You have no idea what''s in my head right now."

    "Heh... I think I do." She bit her lip to suppress her sneaky waves ofughter. "But I don''t care. You said to choose you, so I did. You put this upon yourself."

    "What a cruel woman." Heughed in a low tone, rocking his head.

    Shortly, the orchestra yed, and the people in the middle of the hall danced gracefully. Abel never took his eyes off of her, smirking behind the mask. She was thrilled to find him among the crowd, despite his proxy. But for Abel, he was neither excited nor displeased about it.

    He felt conflicted.

    Abel already expected to watch her dance with someone else. Although there was this small part in him, he hoped she would find him, he didn''t expect much. But Aries knew with just a nce. No words needed or the slightest hint. She just knew.

    The sound of the orchestra faded in his ears, reced by the drumming of his heart. It was beating so fast, to the point it was already painful. Abel pulled her waist closer, moving slower than the music whilst lowering his head. He hung his head low, resting it on her shoulder.

    "Huh?" her brows rose,gging from the dance as he slowed down. She gazed to her side, blinking twice, wondering if he was alright.

    "Are you poisoned? Why are you suddenly slowing down?" she inquired as the two of them was breaking the pattern.

    Since she was the swan for tonight''s ball, Aries and Abel danced in the middle. The other guests, who were dancing the usual dance everyone knew, formed a circle around the two of them, changing partners with every spin.

    Listening to her questions, his eyes behind the mask softened. "Mhm," came out a low hum, squeezing her waist lightly.

    "Oh, my god..." Aries gasped, panic swelling up in her chest. Seriously? Even during this asion? Some people were still trying to poison him to death?

    Aries calmed herself down, watching her steps and letting him use her as his pir. She couldn''t act out of the ordinary. Being mistaken as the two of them showing intimacy was better than letting others know Abel was using a stand-in to apany the empire''s guests, and now he was poisoned!

    "What are you feeling? Do you feel like you will copse?" she asked in his ear, crawling her hand from his shoulder to his nape.

    <o>,m "Mhm." His voice was unfamiliarly low and vulnerable, making her panic even more. As she thought of a reason to take him somewhere and tell others about it, Aries thought of something. Her ne!</o>

    "My ne...!"<sub> </sub>

    "Don''t." Her brows furrowed at his immediate reply. "I''m alright. Just stay like this for a moment."

    She frowned, ncing at him. Because of the mask, she couldn''t see what type of expression he was wearing, but she could feel it was unusual. She didn''t even consider he was trolling her бк although she had fallen for that trick many times already.

    "Why are you being like this, Abel?" came out a muffled voice, biting her inner lower lip. "I don''t like it."

    Aries was worried, and yet he didn''t want her to do anything. What was he trying to do now? For someone who could drop words as if they meant nothing and acted arrogantly, she shouldn''t wane. But times like thisбн left a bitter pang in her heart.

    "And why did you find me?" he asked in the same low tone. "Even if you knew where I was, you should''ve pretended you didn''t."

    "Why are you so difficult? You told me to choose you. So, I did."

    "Don''t you have free will?"

    "Do you think I have that? Here?" she scoffed, gripping his shoulder tighter. "You know better than anyone, Abel. Youбн know."

    A time when things should be magical was reced by nothing but silence, slow dancing in the upbeat orchestra. It would''ve been perfect, honestly. Aries thought they would tease each other and maybe humor each other by looking for potential recements together.

    That assignment had be an inside joke now since they were both cool about it. But he didn''t let that happen. Instead, he was evidently ruining the mood whilst being ''poisoned''.

    Little did she know she was his poison.

    The things she would do for him, the words she would speak to him, the way she looked at himбн were his poison. Because at the end of the day, Abel was aware this was her survival method.

    She was right.

    He knew better than anyoneбн but he wished he didn''t. He wished he was blind, a blockhead, and just as heartless as he thought he was.

    "I regret it," he whispered after his prolonged silence. "I should''ve slit your throat that night."

    Her breath hitched, grinding her teeth. "You should''ve," she whispered back, breathing growing heavy.

    Shortly, the orchestra stopped ying, and the two of them paused. This time, Abel straightened his back, taking a step back. Aries also took a step back, performing a curtsy while he beckoned a bow.

    "It was a delightful dance," he said, and she nodded in understanding.

    "It was."

    With that being said, Abel pivoted on his heel as he strutted away as if nothing happened. Meanwhile, Aries also walked in the opposite direction with a heavy heart.

 Chapter 74 Things Other See

    After the dance, Aries left the ball to the changing room that was solely for her. Inside was Gertrude, waiting for her to help her change her clothes. But when Aries arrived and took off the mask, her personal maid could tell she was utterly upset. Hence, she simply served Aries some snacks and beverages, raising no questions.

    "Thank you, Gertrude," Aries expressed, gazing up at Gertrude, who was serving tea on the small table in front of the divan she was sitting on. "I appreciate that you''re not raising any questions."

    "Mydy, this humble servant will have her ears open if you need to vent. But since you are not saying anything that upsets you, I can only do what I can." She shed Aries a warm smile. "Please rest well. The night had just begun, so you do not have to hurry."

    Aries kept her mouth shut, watching Gertrude straighten her back to leave. But before her personal maid could, Aries spoke.

    "Gertrude, why are you nice to me?" she asked, making the middle-aged woman smile. "Is it because of Abel, and it is your duty?"

    "Partly. I am doing my duty as your servant. But I am willing to serve you because it makes me happy."Gertrude smiled. "Everyone likes mydy because she is a nice and a warm person. You treat everyone so well and speak to us with respect."

    "Is that so? Then... what if I leave?"

    "Are you nning to leave, mydy?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line while staring at the wrinkles in Gertrude''s face. "What if I do?"

    "Mydy." This time, Gertrude sported a worried expression. "If you do, will you take me with you?"

    "Gertrude, do you think I have enough money to feed you?" she asked, a little taken aback by her maid''sst remarks. "What I''m trying to say here is, I am telling you this because you will serve a new person soon. You don''t have to be so warm and kind."

    "Mydy..."

    "Abel, I mean, His Majesty already knows about this. So you don''t have to worry since I''m certain he will take care of everyone in the Rose pce." Aries forced a smile, waving lightly. "I would like to be alone for a while."

    Gertrude frowned but resisted voicing out her thoughts. "Yes, mydy."

    The maid didn''t raise questions, knowing the pce was full of people with their own issues. Aries thought Gertrude was worried that what she mentioned was everyone''s worry.

    No, it wasn''t.

    Sure. Everyone wanted to work in the Rose pce because of the carefree life everyone could attain. But that was just the minor reason.

    The Rose pce had be a ce where everyone could breathe and live without the lingering fear of dying any moment. They only needed to pay attention to Aries and her well-being. And that task wasn''t even difficult since she was a very likable person.

    Moreover, as the people who were always close to Aries''s vicinity, they had seen what Aries hadn''t. How the emperor looked at her.

    They had witnessed things they thought Abel would never do for Aries and how Abel looked so rxed around her. Watching them from afar, one would wonder if he was the same emperor. The emperor no one would dare look at in the eye.

    So her remarks about leaving brought mixed emotions into Gertrude''s heart. Forget about the possible changes in the rose pce, but what would happen to Abel once Aries walked out of this ce? Would things return to how it was before she came into the picture?<sub> </sub>

    Thoughts like that hovered over Gertrude''s head in a sh. She looked back at Aries when she was by the door, sighing deeply seeing her sip from the cup. She kept her mouth shut before closing the door, leaving the private room without voicing out any of the things that went through her head.

    Aries nced at the door upon hearing the soft click when Gertrude closed it. A deep sigh slipped past her lips, putting the teacup back on the saucer. She leaned back, closing her eyes, and another deep sigh escaped her nostrils.

    "This should be alright," she whispered, tilting her head back. "It''s alright."

    She repeated that word like a spell, convincing herself everything would be alright. The thought of Abel and whether or not he was being treated currently kept resurfacing in her head, but she squashed it down.

    Abel wouldn''t die from poison. He was too evil to die easily.

    "That''s right. Bad people live longer, apparently." Her eyes slowly opened, catching the ceiling instantly. "That''s how the world had always been. I shouldn''t concern myself with that."

    Abel had many people around him. Hence, they wouldn''t allow Abel to die that easily and put the empire in peril. That was the argument she used in her head to stop herself from thinking about him.

    She swallowed the frustrating tension in her throat, taking deep breaths. After she calmed down, she was going to meet Conan. But before that, she needed to breathe. There was just something that suffocated her.

    Was it her feelings? Her brief argument with Abel during their dance?

    Aries was unsure. But what she was certain was she needed to breathe. This ce was stealing her breaths, leaving her breathless. With that thought in mind, she rose from the divan and marched towards the window connecting to the terrace.

    This private room for her was situated on the first floor of the pce. So, it was close to the garden. Aries propped her arms against the railing, inhaling the night breeze with eyes closed.

    "This is better," she whispered, opening her eyes ever so slowly. "Much better."

    A subtle smile dominated her face as she weed the wind''s soft kisses. Now that she thought about it, she used to be like this in Rikhill. Aries also liked to breathe some fresh air in the night to rx. Surely, many habits returned from the past that she didn''t realize unless she thought about it.

    "There''s no point in thinking about... that," she trailed off upon hearing a faint squeal from the garden. It barely reached her ears, but she knew what she heard.

    "What..." Aries looked around the garden in front of her, and she couldn''t see anything further. There weren''t also people around, so her sense of duty rose in her heart. Without a second hesitation, Aries hopped over the railings and rushed to where she heard the cry for help.

    She assumed someone got injured or lost since it waste, and no one was around. But when she finally arrived at where she heard the voice, she halted.

    There, not far away from the pavilion, stood Abel with a sword in his hand. Before him was a woman, kneeling on the ground. Just one look and she could tell Abel was about to sentence the woman.

    When he raised his sword, Aries didn''t think twice about calling his name.

    "Abel!"

 Chapter 75 It Was Fun While It Lasted

    "Abel!"

    Aries yelled through her gritted teeth, making Abel freeze on the spot. She balled her hand into a fist, storming in his direction while he shifted his eyes to her. As soon as she stopped several feet away from them, she darted her eyes between Abel and the woman kneeling before him to assess the situation.

    How Abel was here and this woman was something she didn''t know or even wondered. But this was akin to deja vu. The only difference was that Aries wasn''t the person kneeling.

    "Darling, why are you here?" he asked, putting down his sword while tilting his head to the side.

    "I... does it matter?" she inquired back instead of answering him. "What are you doing?"

    "Isn''t it obvious?" he arched a brow, casting the terrified woman kneeling before him an indifferent look. "I was about to send her to the pearly gates of heaven."

    Aries''s breath hitched while the woman spoke in a shaking voice. "Your бк Your Majesty, please spare me. I бк I didn''t бк didn''t mean to... I didn''t know you are the emperor and I... I... I deserve death."

    Aries''s heart broke watching and listening to the woman''s stammering. In the end, the woman, even though she wanted to save herself, still sumbed to fear and epted the swift release from this world.

    "Mhm. I know." Abel rocked his head indifferently, arching a brow as he nced at Aries. "If you don''t want to stain your dress, go back."

    "Stain...?" Aries kept her eyes on the woman, witnessing how thetter''s face was filled with dread. "Your Majesty, does she deserve death?"

    "She followed me and tried to get her hands on me. So obviously, she deserves it." He shrugged without a hint of remorse.

    Her tight fist trembled, peeling her eyes away from the woman. This woman could''ve been her months ago. How could she forget? That Abel ughter people without conscience? How could she get blinded by what he had been showing her so far?

    Abel was and would always be a tyrant.

    "What''s with that look, darling?" he frowned. "Do you think I''m going too far? This? Far?"

    ''Of course, this isn''t too far for him,'' she thought, grinding her teeth secretly. She remained silent, holding Abel''s gaze for a long time in silence.

    When her lips parted, the space between his brows wrinkled. "I chose her."

    "Hmm?"

    "As my recement," she muttered without looking away from him. "Don''t you think this situation is eerily simr that night? I chose her, Your Majesty. She will be my recement."

    "Huh..." Abel let out a dryugh, rocking his head lightly. He set his eyes on the woman on the ground, squatting down to take a closer look at her.

    "Her?" he asked, lifting the woman''s chin so she would look at him squarely. "She looks nothing like you, though."<sub> </sub>

    "She''s a different breed," she mocked, shrugging while staring at him. "Am I free now? Can I go?" her voice wasced with ridicule, chest moving in and out deeply.

    Abel nced up at her. Nothing, in particr, could be seen in his eyes. If anything, he appeared as though he didn''t mind anything anymore. Still, he kept silent as he stood up ever so slowly.

    "Isaiah, prepare a carriage for Lady Heathcliffe. She had served her duty as my pet properly. Thus, she deserves an honorable discharge. Give her the necessary rewards she deserved for her services," came out a stern order with his eyes fixed on Aries.

    Aries nced behind Abel and saw Isaiah bow in silence. Just like a shadow, he disappeared in the dark to execute his order. For reasons unknown, her heart was skipping a beat as she returned her gaze to him when he spoke again.

    "Youбн" Abel trailed off, avoiding calling her name. "бн better go as far away as possible. If you''re going to leave, leave the continent бк to a ce beyond my reach. Hasten and never stop or look back, for I will turn the continent upside down in a month or so once I check this woman''s grave and see it''s not you."

    Aries froze when Abel raised his sword and swung it down at the woman without a second hesitation. All she could do was watch the woman copse with a thud, blood gushing out from the wound across her chest.

    She was dead, just like that.

    "Don''t let me find you." A chill ran down her spine upon hearing Abel''s chilly remarks, shifting her shaking eyes to him. Abel was still staring at the woman, lying on her pool of blood without showing a hint of remorse at his actions.

    "Because if I ever see you again, I will lock you up to a ce only I know. You will never see the daylight again and if I die, you will die because no one will ever find you." He paused, wiping the blood from his de with his bare hands. "My new pet was a little flimsy. What a shame she didn''tst a day."

    Abel carefully cocked his head back, eyes on Aries'' pale figure. "Go. Aries is dead," he remarked, calling his new pet бк now dead бк Aries.

    Aries held her breath, staggering back with her eyes on him. This was Abel; how could she forget? How the hell did she think Abel was the man who would make herugh and a shallow person to the point it was hrious?

    Everythingбн wasn''t real, she thought. Everything was just a game to him, and he acted ordingly. So since he had fun ying with her, he granted her a reward; her freedom.

    Her mouth opened and closed, but no words came out. In the end, Aries swallowed the frustrating tension in her throat and turned her back against him. She did her best. She gave him a recement, and it was not her fault that she''s dead now.

    Aries did her part, and this was where they call it game over. She didn''t look back and continued to march away, hands balled into a tight fist.

    Meanwhile, Abel kept his eyes on her back in silence. He kept staring in the same direction until she was out of sight.

    "It was fun while itsted," he whispered, listening to the soundless sound of the night. "Well, I guess this is the perfect time for that."

    When he peeled his eyes away and set them back to the woman lying in front of him, he stepped his foot on her head.

    "Stop ying dead," came out a dark voice, watching her hand flinch while licking his growing fangs. "How dare you people target my woman, hmm? I''d like to see what you had in store for me."

 Chapter 76 A Choice Everyone Knew Was Wise

    Aries looked back at the entrance of the rose pce, smiling subtly at Gertrude and a few maids. They were tearing up as they bid her farewell, but Aries didn''t shed a single tear. It wasn''t strange, though. There was nothing to cry about. If anything, she should be ted.

    But she wasn''t also thrilled about it.

    "Mydy." Aries snapped her eyes, turning her head to the side. There, walking towards her was Dexter, still in his formal suit.

    "Greetings, my lord." She curtsied when Dexter stopped at arm''s length. "What brings you here?"

    "I heard my student is finally leaving the pce. Hence, I rushed in here."

    Aries chuckled wearily. "To bid me farewell?"

    "Well." He shrugged, sporting a short smile. "I volunteered to make sure you leave the capital safely. You can say I will stay longer with you for a bit."

    "You don''t have to, though."

    "But I was worried."

    "Worried?" A briefugh escaped her mouth, staring at her tutor. "Or were you interested in how I gained my ticket to leave?"

    The corners of his lips stretched that reached his eyes. "Perhaps, both." He took a step forward, hands reaching towards her. "Shall I assist you in?"

    "Thank you." Aries nodded, sping his hand as she hitched inside the carriage. Dexter followed after she settled in, sitting across from her. It didn''t take long when the carriage started moving.

    She nced at him before setting her attention on the window. As they moved away from the pce, Aries could still see some lights not far away. And then came to sight was the king''s pce, where the ball was being held.

    "I expect Sir Conan to rush to me." She broke the silence after a few minutes, eyes still on the window. "I didn''t think the marquess wille and see me. I wonder why...?"

    "Sir Conan is busy scolding His Majesty."

    "That''s so like him..." she purred.

    Aries rocked her head. He didn''t need to exin the reason Conan was unable to see her off. Not that it upset her; she wasn''t going on a vacation, after all. Aries would leave Haimirich permanently.

    "Lady Aries, you don''t look like you''re happy." Dexter pointed out, staring at her side profile. "I thought you will be smiling from ear to ear at this aplishment."

    She didn''t reply immediately, letting her heart rate settle to a normal pace. When it did, she carefully peeled her eyes away from the window to the man across from her.

    "He killed her," she spoke while he raised his brow. "The recement. He killed her."

    "Ahhбн any thoughts about it? Did you feel bad?"

    Aries let out a faintugh as she shook her head. "Why would I? That could''ve been me, my Lord."

    "That''s trueбн" He rocked his head, closed-lipped, studying her demeanor. "Then why do you look like that?"

    "Because I didn''t feel anything in particr about it." Aries let out a deep exhale, lowering her eyes with an iprehensible smile. That was right. She didn''t feel sorry for the woman''s death, nor was she happy about it. All she thought was, that could''ve been herбн or not.

    Silence descended upon them as neither of them talked. She kept her eyes down while he was scrutinizing her demeanor.<sub> </sub>

    "Why are you here, my lord?" she asked out of nowhere. "Were you nning to talk me out of this? That would be strange, though. Will you enlighten me?"

    Dexter smiled politely. "Believe me or not, I am simply here to apany you. I didn''t n to talk you out of it, since Lady Aries had always known what she wants. She doesn''t need someone telling her what to do."

    "And what do you think I want?"

    "I don''t know. Only you know that." He shrugged, leaning backfortably with his leg resting over the other. "What do you think do you want, Lady Aries?"

    There was a moment of nothing but silence in the carriage. Only the sound of the wheels suspended the silence while the two of them looked at each other in the eye.

    "Marquess," she called in a low tone, letting out a faint exhale. "You don''t seem to like His Majesty. Why are you staying?"

    "Do I have a choice?"

    "It might sound ridiculous, considering your position in the empire. However, I always felt like you can always leave if you want to." She pointed out which she had never voiced out before, catching him off guard. "So, why are you staying?"

    His brows rose upon hearing her questions before heughed. Surely, Aries was smarter than he expected. There were things she had already noticed but didn''t utter for her own reason. When he recovered, he let out a sharp exhale.

    "Who knows?" he tilted his head, sporting a warm smile. "I also wonder why, Lady Aries. I can always choose to leave, but despite that, here I am. "

    This time, he peeled his eyes away from her to the window. His eyes narrowed as they rxed, his weak smile persisting.

    "I don''t particrly like His Majesty. In fact, I abhor him," he continued in the same deep tone. "There wasn''t anything appealing about him. He isplicated, fickle, and annoying. He does whatever he wants regardless if his actions will hurt others."

    He slowly set his eyes back to her. "And yet, I can''t leave... or rather, I don''t see any reason I must leave. Where will I go?"

    Aries''s eyes softened as she listened to his voice in silence. She knew when Dexter was simply being smart or speaking honestly. This time, she knew it was thetter and she could rte somehow.

    "If you''re hesitating to leave, don''t," he continued sternly, his eyes sharpening. "Leave, Lady Aries. Leave this ce and never look back, for that is the right thing to do. That is the wisest decision you will ever make in this life. This ce doesn''t suit you because the longer you stay, the more it will corrupt you."

    He paused while staring at her solemnly. This time, he truly wanted her to leave from the bottom of his heart. It was a shame, but he didn''t dislike her to the point he would trick her into staying.

    "The pce is only gorgeous on the outside. But there were things you wish to never know," he added in the same tone. "Leave while you still can. Trust me."

    Aries remained silent, processing his words of encouragement. She had spent a fair enough time with him to know that he meant everything he uttered.

    "I know that, My Lord," she whispered, peeling her eyes away from him to the window. "Everything you said... I already know that, for I also told myself that this is the wisest thing to do."

    "That''s good, then..."

    "But then again, I also wonder where I will go?" the space between his brows wrinkled while staring at her look back at him. "Marquess Vandran, I think I understand your heart now."

    A subtle smile appeared on her face while he frowned before he sighed.

    "It was toote, huh?" he muttered in defeat, chuckling whilst shaking his head.

    "Mhm." She chuckled, letting out a deep exhale as she set her eyes back to the window. "I think you already know that, though. You haven''t bid me farewell."

 Chapter 77 Stress Eating

    Abel picked up a gold cup to drink wine, chugging it down, and hissed in satisfaction. He smacked his lips, clearing his throat before picking up the cutlery to eat.

    "So? The carriage left the capital?" he asked while slicing through the tender steak with his bloodstained hands. He forked it out and devoured it, shifting his pair of nonchnt eyes at Isaiah.

    Isaiah stood several feet away from the host seat at the long dining table. He nced at the other people upying the seats around the long table. But unlike Abel, who had the appetite to eat, the people joining him in his meal were all... unconscious.

    Some had their face on the tes, others were leaning back with their eyes opened. Most of them were men and only a few were women. But eating with the dead didn''t faze Abel.

    "Yes," Isaiah answered after a few seconds of silence, eyes back at Abel. "Marquess Vandran sent her off. He will deal with the people who were after her."

    "Good." Abel rocked his head, stabbing a baby potato with his fork. "And Conan?"

    "He is still throwing a tantrum about Lady Aries''s departure."

    Abel let out a darkugh while chewing. His eyesnded on the guest around the table, shaking his head lightly. It was a dreadful sight to behold, but he was quite used to it.

    "Too bad they didn''t get to enjoy the potato we grew and harvest." He let out a deep exhale, tongue running to the side of his gum. He picked up the golden cup of wine, scanning the table once again, only to shake his head.

    "What a shame."

    He guided the cup to his lips to wash down the food and calm the turmoil in his heart. After Aries left the garden, Abel dragged the woman whom he slew for questioning. Sadly, she bit her tongue off and killed herself, knowing she would face an even worst fate if Abel started questioning her.

    So, in the end, Abel invited everyone from the council. He didn''t pay attention to it before because he was so busy with Aries. But the attendees in the council meeting were only representatives. Thus, he didn''t find any reason to let them all leave this dining hall.

    They all met their demise even before they could eat. Abel didn''t have time to y games with the council, nor would he indulge in talking to stand-ins. It was an insult, but well, that saved him the trouble of talking to those troublesome people. That only meant he would see them in a few years again. It was a win-win, nheless.

    The only problem was, they were targeting Aries.

    "Tonight, she would''ve died twice," Abel crooned, hands on the table as he thought about it. "First, in the hallway, and second, in her changing room. Isaiah, loosen the security in the pce. I''d like to see how these rats who snuck inside will do."

    "I already did when Lady Aries left the pce."

    Abel cast Isaiah a look, nodding in satisfaction. "Very good." The side of his lips stretched. "I need a distraction for a while. We''ll deal with these people in a few months. She would''ve left the continent by then."

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    "What do you think they prepared for me? Women? Golds? Poison? Assassins, perhaps?" he inquired with a ridiculing tone, stabbing another baby potato. But instead of shoving it inside his mouth, he leaned back, eyes on Isaiah, while carefully guiding the potato to his lips.<sub> </sub>

    "I think..." Isaiah nced at the table, noticing the empty bottle of wines Abel had already downed and some empty tes stacked up near him. "... you are stress eating."

    "Huh?" Abel cocked his head to the side, still chewing.

    "Shall I bring her back?"

    "Isaiah, do you think I am not a man of my words?" Abel swallowed down his food, reaching for the gold-ted cup, only to see it empty. Hence, he reached for the unopened bottle of wine and poured himself a ss.

    "I don''t see any reason for my loyal sword to suggest something so ridiculous. Did you spend a second with... the girl whose name I forgot, for you to want her back in here?"

    "I am simply worried about Your Majesty," Isaiah confessed in his usual deep baritone voice. "You want to chase after her and I would like to save you the trouble."

    Abel cast Isaiah a look. "Who?"

    "Your Majestyбн"

    "Isaiah, you are always worried about me. Are you afraid I''d actually die?" he humored with a darkugh, shaking his head as he twirled the ss in his hand. "Of course, I can barely stop myself from flying to her to drag her back in here. However, I gave her my word and I will uphold that."

    "I will look for her monthster. If I find her, then that''s the sign to lock her up. But if I didn''t, good for her," Abel added, letting out a sharp exhale. "I mean,e onбн I''ve never met a woman who can get along with me so perfectly well."

    "She was smart."

    "Exactly." Abel rocked his head, ncing at Isaiah briefly. "She is smart and it will be a shame if her intelligence will be the cause of destroying our littleбн friendship."

    Isaiah pressed his lips into a thin line, lowering his eyes. He knew what Abel meant by that. Aries was smart and with a snake like Dexter slithering around her, it wouldn''t be a surprise if she figure out the secret behind the empire.

    That secret was something one wouldn''t easily ept after all. Abel simply wanted to preserve Aries memories just the way it was.

    The emperor was rather a simple man, surprisingly. That was all he wanted from her, nothing else. Or ratherбн Abel wanted more from her, but he wouldn''t risk letting her in this secret because it could change everything with a snap of a finger.

    "Anyway, tell everyone in the Rose pce to desert the ce until further notice. I''ll be staying there for the night and I do not like any disturbances." Abel ordered after a minute of silence, smacking his lips as he gazed at Isaiah.

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Thetter bowed before executing the order.

 Chapter 78 Swear... He Was Not Insane

    <strong>[WARNING: THE FOLLOWING CONTENT CONTAINS A DISTURBING NARRATIVE. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    The soft click of the door as it closed brought forth nothing but silence in the dining hall. Abel let out a shallow breath, gazing at the long dining table filled with dead guests.

    Unlike the nonchnt air surrounding him in Isaiah''s presence, his expression was justбн dead. He didn''t know what to feel about tonight. He had seen thising, albeit not this soon. But he knew Aries would leaveбн since he already nned her departure.

    Even so, there was just this void she left in his rotten heart. A void that wouldn''t be fulfilled so easily. Actually, it was impossible.

    "Anger?" he whispered, sprawling his hand towards an empty te.

    CLANG!

    Abel dropped the te, shattering it to see if that would make him feel slightly better. One te was followed by more, shattering on the floor one after another. And yet, he felt nothing.

    He then picked up the cutlery, stabbing the leftover steak onto his te. Like a boy throwing a tantrum, the te broke in half as he stabbed the steak repeatedly. His expression remained the same.

    Nothing. He was just getting even more upset.

    "Violence?" he wondered, dropping the cutlery as he scanned the long table. Abel nted his hands on the surface of the table, pushing himself up ever so slowly. He used his chair as a step up until he stood on top of the table.

    "Wake up, everyone!" he pped and eximed, kicking the serving pot to the side. He cocked his head to the person where the potnded, sighing when the corpse didn''t move a muscle.

    "How can you be so flimsy?" he frowned, approaching the man, who had his face buried on the te in front of him. Abel nonchntly pulled the man''s hair back, clicking his tongue at the horrifying sight of the man''s empty eye socket.

    "Rightбн you''re pretty dead, huh?" he sighed, letting go of the man''s hair and it instantly dropped on the te, face first. Abel stood up once again, hands on his hips.

    "It''s not working," he whispered, running his hand through his head. "It''s notбн working."

    Abel closed his eyes as he hissed, chest moving in and out heavily. When he took another deep breath, he opened his eyes ever so slowly.

    "Ariesбн" his eyes glinted, fangs letting themselves known. "бн do you all know Aries?"

    He weakly nced from his left to right, kicking all the tes and food on his way as he marched in the middle of the long table. He loosened his cravat, stretching his neck sideways.

    "Ariesбн of course, you heard of her." Heughed, shrugging nonchntly as he chatted with the dead. "She is my soulmate, after all. Haha! I bet she will cringe if I told her thatбн"

    He paused in the middle of the table, frowning. He looked down at the person leaning against the chair, eyes falling on the hole in his chest.

    "What?" he asked out of nowhere, raising a brow at the already dead person. He smirked, taking a step forward, only to step on his pale face. "You''re saying she will not react since she will not hear me say that? You got a lot of nerve."

    Abel coldly kicked the unmoving person until it stumbled back. Despite that, only the brief thud of the body and chair was heard. No squeal or grunting whatsoever. Well, the man was already dead with that missing hole in his chest.

    As the piercing silence returned, Abel looked around once again. His eyes darkened, the side of his lips curling up evilly.

    "You all think I''m crazy?" he asked with a dryugh. "And you agree that she''s better off without me?"<sub> </sub>

    Abel rocked his head lightly,ughing with his lips closed. He ran his hands through his hair, peals ofughter growing louder and eerie.

    "Of course, I am... not!" heughed, pping his hands in amusement. "Ahhбн I simply want to see her. Why did she leave so soon?" he wiped the side on his lips, breathing out from his mouth. "My darlingбн my Ariesбн"

    With a man standing on top of the table,ughing whilst hanging out with the dead, the sight of him was truly mortifying. Abel was crazy, indeed. But those who knew him would disagree. This was just level one.

    But they were certain he would snap in a few months. Why? Because he said so. There was only one reason for him to lose it. That was if his enemies weren''t as fascinating as he thought they were.

    "Darlingбн" Abel slowly went down on his knees, hunching in as his waves ofughter subsided. "бн you better not show up in front of me again."

    If Aries showed up in front of him, Abel would surely not let her go. One or two opportunities were his limit. He wouldn''t be so kind the next time. Even if she would end up hating him, he was already used to people''s hatred. Adding another hater to that number wasn''t a big deal.

    In the end, Abel found himself lying on the table, eyes on the ceiling. He didn''t know how long he was lying there, but no one interrupted him. No one would dare get close to him, knowing they could end up being a test subject to quench the turmoil in the emperor''s heart.

    "Your Majesty." Abel blinked when he heard Isaiah''s voice not far away. "The servants had deserted the Rose pce."

    Isaiah stared at Abel''s side profile after rying the news, keeping his silence. This was the first time Abel acted so distraught and stressed over someone. It was also the first time he had seen Abel be this sad. It wasn''t obvious because the emperor hid it pretty well behind the crazy facade.

    "Why did everyone desert the Rose pce?" Abel inquired, making Isaiah''s brows furrow. "Don''t they want to take care of Aries?"

    "Your Majesty, she already left the pce."

    "Ahбн rightбн" Abel blinked weakly, pressing his lips into a thin line. "She left."

    "Your Majesty."

    "Isaiah, hand me your sword." He slowly turned his head to his right, eyes instantlynding on his aide. "Or just slit my throat."

    Isaiah frowned, eyes darkening at the emperor''s request. However, he didn''t refuse Abel as he walked forward, handing a dagger instead. Abel nced at the dagger in his hand nonchntly.

    "I said sword." His fingers slowly curled around the dagger''s handle.

    "A dagger is enough, Your Majesty."

    Abel clicked his tongue, assisting himself up to sit up. He gazed down at the dagger in his possession, stabbing his thigh without batting an eye. Isaiah clenched his teeth, eyes on the dagger plunged into Abel''s thigh.

    "It didn''t hurt," Abel whispered in disappointment, pulling the dagger, only to stab his stomach. Isaiah could only clench his teeth, watching Abel stab himself repeatedly: shoulder, arm, hand, legs, neck, face until blood was gushing out from Abel profusely. The sound of flesh and blood echoing.

    "Damnбн" Abel scoffed, blood soaking his clothes from all the stab wounds he inflicted upon himself. He was too numb at the physical wounds that they paled inparison with the pang in his heart.

    "It''s not working." Abel finally tossed the bloody dagger away, dragging himself out of the table. "Aries?" he called, walking away from the dining hall to the Rose pce.

    "Aries! Come! I''m bleeding!" he yelled, dragging his feet, leaving blood trails behind. "Aries? Aries!"

 Chapter 79 [Bonus Chapter]His Demons Coming In For A Kill

    "Aries?! Aries! Ariel? My buddy!?"

    Abel''s voice echoed across the entire emperor''s pce, shouting Aries''s name. Those who heard his voice pretended they heard nothing. Fortunately, Isaiah didn''t only order everyone from the Rose pce to desert the ce, but also in the main pce.

    There were only a few who were left behind in this ce. Those who could be trusted to pretend they heard nothing or see anything.

    "Aries! Ughбн how can you sleep at a time like this?" he mumbled irritably, stopping in front of the window and ncing at it. "Ahбн it''s nighttime."

    Abel rocked his head, continuing in his strides. He was still calling Aries''s name as if he wanted to let the entire world know that name. As he did so, blood still trailed him like a shadow.

    "Ariesбн" he whispered, waltzing through the hallway to go to her. Abel knew Aries had left, but he was still looking for her. That wasn''t to gain sympathy, but he wasбн desperate. He needed something to numb the striking pain in his chest.

    The voices in his head were growing louder and only her name could silence them, albeit notpletely. Slowly, but surely, he was losing his mind. He needed help; he needed her.

    "Aries!"

    As Abel''s voice rang across the hallway, Conan halted at the end of the hallway behind Abel. He rushed to see the emperor upon hearing his echoing voice, halting whenying his eyes on Abel''s back.

    "Your бк" just as Conan took a step forward, a hand held his shoulder. He turned his head, only to see Isaiah shake his head.

    "Let him be, for now, Conan," said Isaiah in his usual monotone voice. "Her departure is just slowly sinking in. He will need some time alone to recover. He might hurt you in this state."

    Conan ground his teeth while Isaiah peeled his eyes away from him to Abel. The former also set his eyes on the emperor''s back, balling his hand into a tight fist.

    "This is whyбн" he muttered through his gritted teeth. "бн this is why I told him just keep her with him. He underestimated his affection to her."

    Conan''s breathing grew heavier, feeling sorry at the emperor''s first heartbreak. Although Abel was a disaster, Conan still cared about him. The emperor was the only one who believed in someone like Conan in the past, after all.

    In this cruel world, Abel was the only person who reached his hands to Conan first. It didn''t matter if Abel was a cruel man who could be too extreme most of the time. And his respect towards the emperor didn''t have anything to do with Abel''s harsh experience in the past.

    The reason Conan wanted Abel to be happy was simple. Abel deserved that. People who held a grudge against the cruel tyrant might disagree бк this world, even бк but that was Conan''s belief.

    ? Because at the end of the day, Abel was his friend. Abel never truly harmed him and he was the person who would go against the world if others bullied Conan. He was the only person who could bully Conan.

    That was why Conan immediately realized things faster than others. Abel liked Aries, and the emperor knew that. The only difference between Conan and Abel, thetter underestimated Aries''s effect on him. Conan didn''t; he expected this much every time he thought of Aries leaving.

    Now that she left, things would only get worse from this moment on.

    "Lady Ariesбн" he whispered, hanging his head low. "бн if only you knowбн"

    <strong>*****</strong><sub> </sub>

    <strong>BAM!</strong>

    Abel kicked the entrance of the Rose pce with a bang. Darkness and silence weed him. He ignored it as he trudged inside.

    "Aries!" he roared his lungs out, panting for air as his breathing constricted. "Aries!!!! Come out!"

    He was akin to a madman, roaring while stomping through the empty and silent hallway. Due to theck of life in the ce, his voice echoed even louder before; it could even reach the next building. It was so loud that one was able to detect the desperation in his voice, calling that name as if that was the only name he knew.

    "Ariesбн" his steps slowed down as his breathing grew heavy, clutching his chest until his ws dug into his clothes through his flesh.

    It was sinking in. Ariesбн departingбн it was sinking in and it was tearing away the remaining pieces of his rotten heart. Bit by bit, letting him feel everything.

    His face crumpled, gazing at the lonely and dark hallway ahead. His mouth fell open, dropping his hand from his chest.

    "Don''t goбн" came out a whisper, picking up his pace towards her room. "бн choose me. Just me."

    He felt like running, but each time he took a step, his stab wounds were squirting blood. Yet, he never stopped ever since he walked out of that dining hall, like an abandoned dog looking for his owner.

    "Aries!!" he called once again, drawing closer to the room they both shared. "Ariel!"

    The closer he was to her room, her face shed before him. The face that was first filled with dread, sadness, anxiety, and then that same face gradually changed into her smirk, smile, and different expressions.

    Was she not happy all those times? Was there a second she was ever happy? Of course, he knew Aries''s survival method, but even so, Abel thought she was being genuine.

    They were almost there, weren''t they? Didn''t she feel that too? That they were almost there? Almost, almostбн there? The two of them?

    "Aries!"

    <strong>BAM!</strong>

    Abel kicked the door open, gassing out with dark eyes. She better be here, he thought, because if she wasn''t, he would take his words back for the first time and drag her back in here.

    "A бк"

    "Abel, what the hell?" his breath hitched, stunned. His shaking eyesnded on the person on the bed. "Do you know what time is it? Is letting people sleep too much to ask?"

    Aries clicked his tongue, scratching her head while assisting herself to sit up.

 Chapter 80 Paranoia

    p "Do you know what time is it? Is letting people sleep too much to ask?"</anda>

    Aries scratched her head, vision adjusting to theck of light. She gazed at Abel, who stood motionless by the door. She left the pce but snuck back after realizing something. However, when she returned, no one was already in this ce. Not that she didn''t see thating.

    She nned to rest for tonight and fix things tomorrow. So while nning for her conditions, she fell asleep... only to wake up by Abel''s yelling. But his voice... didn''t sound angry.

    He was searching for her... desperately. Like a man who was slowly losing his mind, looking for someone whom he already knew left.

    "Abel." She breathed out once her vision adjusted in the dark. "What are you...?"

    Aries trailed off as her eyes fell on the spot he was standing on. Something was dripping from his fingertips and even without seeing its color, she knew it was blood.

    ''Did he massacre everyone?'' she wondered, letting out a sigh as she raised her pair of emerald orbs. ''Or... was it yours? Why even let me go if you''ll act like this?''

    "What are you doing standing over there?" she inquired, flinging her legs out of the bed carefully. She wore her slippers, walking towards him. Aries stopped in front of him, raising her brows as she studied this beautiful mess.

    "Did you ughter people? Blood is not for bathing," came out a humor, taking another step to help him get changed. But just as she had a closer look, she noticed his clothes were ripped.

    Her brows rose, scanning his body, and saw more ripped spots across his clothes. Aries held her breath as she raised her head, only to see him staring back at her in silence. Abel was just staring, wondering if he was imagining things or she was truly there.

    He didn''t want to touch her, afraid she would disappear. Thus, he could only stare. She looked real... but he knew himself more than anyone. Everything... would seem real if he believed it was real. He must''ve missed her more than he calcted, he thought.

    "Why... would you let me go if you''ll do this?" she inquired under her breath, listening to the faint sound of blood dripping from his fingertips, eyes soft. "You know I left, right? Why would you keep barking like a dog, looking for his owner?"

    His eyelids dropped until they were partially closed. "Perhaps... I was the pet all along?"

    "Selfish," she mocked with a ridiculing scoff. "If you''re the pet, then what''s my role? Your owner? Don''t make meugh."<sub> </sub>

    He kept quiet, staring at the pair of emeralds full of contempt. He had seen those eyes. In the nightmares that haunted her, these eyes bore the same contempt, mockery, and bravery.

    "Being the pet is my role, Abel. Don''t take that away from me because if you do... what am I?" her lips quivered as she looked at him bitterly. "If you''re bad and crazy, just be bad and crazy. Be as pitch ck as you get. That way, I know where to stand."

    Aries clenched her teeth as she exhaled sharply. "If you''ll let me go, don''t look for me and call my name like a madman. If you''re angry that I left, then just kill as many people as you can. Set this world on fire and let me burn to ash with it, if that will appease you." She paused, swallowing down the frustrating tension in her throat.

    She wasn''t a fool. Frankly, she knew Abel, and because she knew him quite well, she was aware these wounds dyeing his clothes in red were the results of his own doing. It could be because he was trying to incapacitate himself froming after her, or he was just crazy enough to kill himself.

    Either way, she didn''t appreciate this. She might have gone crazy, but it would be better if hemitted mass murder. Because that was what she expected from him. Not self-harm from the decision he made, but cannot live up to it.

    "You are driving me crazy, really," she muttered with a sharp breath, rxing her shoulders while keeping her eyes on him. "I really... really hate you."

    He remained quiet, so she spoke again. "I hate the way you look at me, the way you speak vulgar words without brakes, and hate you every time your filthy hands touch me." Her breathing skipped, unafraid of spewing these honest and cruel remarks to him.

    Before, Aries was afraid to speak to what was in her heart and mind. But now she didn''t care anymore. If Abel killed her right now. Frankly, that was better. To die right here and now before shepletely loses her mind.

    Abel... was akin to a curse, a devil that was creeping under her skin without her knowledge. He was the poison she started taking in her system until her body got used to it, and now be a part of her. He was the forbidden drug that was slowly ruining her, but she couldn''t stop because she was already... hooked.

    And she hated him for that.

    "I hate everything about you, Abel," she continued with conviction. "Don''t look at me as if I had value. If you''re going to speak vulgarity, just make me feel there isn''t a shred of respect in them. And if you''re going to touch me, touch me as if I am even more soiled than your hands."

    Her breath hitched as her eyes sweltered in suppressed anger. "Just treat me terribly, Abel. Just do all the bad things you want to do to me and shred my spirit to smithereens." She balled her hands into a fist, grinding her teeth. "Don''t make me feel the things that aren''t sincere."

    "Do me a favor and just be the person who saved me to ruin me," came out a muffled voice as she bit her lower lip. "Because at the end of the day... you are my owner and not my lover."

 Chapter 81 Love Me Madly Or Hate Me Dearly

    "Because at the end of the day... you are my owner and not my lover."

    Everything Aries had spewed was the realization she had back in the carriage. Abel, no matter how hateful he was, Aries hated herself more. Their rtionship wasn''t normal. It was suffocating, draining, and was driving them both to insanity.

    But then again, were they both sane? Or were they just pretending all this time? Between the fine line of insanity and sane, were they stepping on both lines?

    To be honest, Aries was unsure either. But what she was certain was... Abel was the only one she had.

    There was no ce in this world for her anymore. Rikhill had fallen and no matter how she denied it, her hatred for the Maganti Empire was deep in her bones.

    She would never get her peace.

    Even if she leave this ce or stay with him, it would be the same. Or rather, the only difference was that... she would be all on her own. Aries couldn''t do that anymore. The darkness had swallowed herpletely. She''d rather hold someone''s hand in that pitch darkness so she would know there was someone with her.

    The only person who could be in that same hell was none other than Abel. They live or die together and she was fine with either.

    There was a long silence between them. Abel remained silent all throughout, eyes fixed on her clear eyes. Her words were unfiltered, but that didn''t graze him. If anything, there was one thing that actually marked in his head.

    "Let''s be lovers then." His words came out only above a whisper, making her breath hitch. "I want more, darling. Not just your body, but your heart, your mind, your soul. Live or die for me."

    Abel raised his finger, reaching her face only to stop midway. She would disappear, he thought. Like a mirage, Aries would disappear and he wouldn''t see her again. Just the thought of it felt like his chest was being hollowed out.

    "Love me madly or hate me dearly. It doesn''t matter." He snapped his eyes at her, smiling iprehensibly. "Love is something I do alone, and hate keeps you going. Let''s do that, Aries... till death do us part."

    Her eyes softened as she gazed at the hand hovering before her. He wasn''t touching her and she sort of guessed why. So, she raised her hand to touch him instead but stopped when he spoke.

    "Don''t," he warned, shaking his head. "You''d disappear."

    The side of her lips curled up as a briefugh slipped past her lips. "I''m not real, Abel," she crooned, moving her hand and her fingers delicately slipped in between his fingers. She wrapped her fingers around him, setting her eyes back to meet his dting eyes.

    "I don''t want to be your empress, but I can be your mistress. Let''s just keep ying the game we both started." She smiled gently, ncing at his hand, and noticed a sh across the back of his hand. "I hate you, I really do. I really want to hurt you... really bad."

    Aries carefully guided his hand to her lips, nting a delicate peck on his wound as if the blood didn''t matter. She looked up and smiled again, contradicting all the words that left her mouth.

    "Better?" she asked, resting the back of his hand against her cheek. "Hmm?"<sub> </sub>

    For a moment, Abel was stunned to silence upon feeling the warmth around his hand. His dted eyes gradually softened as she kissed his hand, and the turmoil in his chest disappeared instead of her.

    It was like magic how his head that was in haywire suddenly grew clear. How the zing fire within him was distinguished with just her touch.

    She didn''t leave. Or rather, she came back to him.

    "Better." He nodded with a subtle smile on his face, pulling her hand closer to him. When they were toe to toe, he bent over, wrapping his arms around her with his forehead on her shoulder.

    "Much better," he whispered, clutching her back with both his trembling hands. Another deep exhale came out of his mouth, feeling her warmth transferring to him.

    Aries nced at him and smirked weakly, wrapping her arms around his waist. His damped clothes tainted her white in chemise with Persian red upon contact with him, but Aries didn''t mind. It was strange, she thought. How she would feel this way around him, almost snugly.

    A subtle smile appeared on her lips. "I felt like I just sold myself to the devil," she whispered with her slight smile persisting. "I guess... From now on, I''m a heretic... and I don''t feel sorry about that."

    Whatever that woulde after this, this was her decision. She chose to return and stay with him; no one persuaded her to make this decision. Whether they get damned and get devoured by the eternal mes in hell, Aries wouldn''t regret it for sure.

    She chose her own hell, and this was it.

    "Does that mean you will worship me from now on?" he inquired, moving his face from her shoulder to the side of her neck. His fiery, deep breath kissed her skin while the tip of his nose traced her neck. "Hmm? This is a path of no return, darling."

    "I know," came out a soft voice, stretching her neck, willing to surrender everything to him. "But it''s not like it will change anything, correct? We are just sinking deeper and deeper, Abel. Falling only had one direction, down. I can only embrace and prepare mynding."

    "You don''t have to. I''ll catch you." A soft pecknded on her neck, trailing fervent kisses up to her jaw. But when he withdrew his head to im her lips, Aries covered his lips with her palm.

    "Let''s treat your wounds first," she said while he frowned. "If you die, my ending will be worse, Abel."

    Aries let out a weakugh as she peeled her hand from his lips ever so slowly. "You better behave," she whispered, standing on her toes, tilting her head as she nted a kiss on his lips.

    "What a tease," he grumbled into her mouth, making her grin against his lips. Abel clicked his tongue when she drew back, only to see the smug smirk stered on her face.

    "Don''t force me to make you beg."

    "We''ll see about that." Aries held his hand, guiding him inside the room and into the bath to help him clean the blood off of him.

 Chapter 82 Hate And Love Are Just Two Words For Passion

    Aries never fell in love in the past. She was too busy serving the people of Rikhill for that. Although she nevercked the love and admiration from her people, and many wanted her as their wife, Abel was different.

    He wanted her just like the rest, but at the same time, he didn''t. It was hard to put it in words, but there was just something in him that maized her to him. His actions strongly backed that feeling.

    She just felt like the world could disown her or turn its back on her. But never Abel. She could be as pitch ck as she could get, and he would embrace her just the same.

    Was this love? She didn''t know until now. Actually, even at this very second, while she was wiping off the blood on his body, she wasn''t clear about this matter.

    Did she fall in love with him without realizing it? Does she love him now? Was this called love? When did it start? How did it happen?

    She doesn''t have an answer to that. However, if falling in love was akin to jumping off to a cliff, uncertain if the fall would break her or she would somehow survive, then probably she fell in love.

    Not that having the answer mattered to her and Abel, anyway. Whether she nurtured this inexplicable feeling or hate him to make it easier, for as long as she stayed, that was all that mattered.

    All she knew was that there might be a million reasons to leave Abel, but there was one reason she held onto.

    That was simple.

    He was Abel, and she was Aries.

    Their rtionship was never normal to begin with. What was there to be afraid of?

    "Stop moving," she warned, clicking her tongue as she put ointment on his wounds after she stitched them. They were now sitting on the edge of the mattress, facing each other with the first aid kit within her reach.

    Since there were no servants in the Rose pce, Aries had to do everything herself, even changing her clothes. She ran a bath for him, prepared clothes he had in her closet, clean cloth to wipe him, bandages, and first aid. Fortunately, she was observant and knew where to find all those.

    "How are you still alive with all these wounds?" she asked with genuine wonder in her voice, fingertip stopping on his chest as she gazed up. "Are you crazy?"

    "Do you think I am insane?"

    "Sort of."

    "Then that makes us two." He shrugged, gazing down at his bare top. "Won''t you ask me who did this?"

    Aries huffed faintly, continuing in putting ointment on his wounds. "Why would I? Lord Darkmore would''ve turned the empire upside down instead of letting you search for a person you know you''ll not find in this ce like a madman."

    "You think so highly of Isaiah."

    "I just think he sees you as his God." She paused, casting him a nce. "Why would you even look for me despite knowing I''m not here anymore?"

    "I know you''ll be here," he crooned, shrugging nonchntly while she pressed her lips into a thin line. Aries was certain he meant to say he was certain he would see her illusion. He mistook her as one, after all.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips. "If I didn''t change my mind, what will you do?" she inquired out of in curiosity.

    "I don''t know? Tell me. What do you think I will do?"<sub> </sub>

    "Stare stiffly at the ceiling?" she guessed, without trying to be funny. Abel nced at her with his brows arched, smirking in satisfaction.

    "You will probably have urges to find me and take back your words out of boredom, but I''m certain that will not happen in the end... for some obvious reasons. So, you will just lie down like a log and stare at the ceiling," she continued, basing everything on how she knew him. "You''ll still probably stay still even when an assassin appears and stabs you right in the chest."

    "That''s some next-level prediction." Aries withdrew her hand with the ointment and faced him squarely. "Quite descriptive too."

    "Am I wrong?" she inquired calmly.

    Abel smacked his lips, tilting his head, eyes still on her. "It was urate. I feel like I am not as unpredictable as people branded me to be."

    "You are predictable, Abel." She snorted, putting the ointment back to the kit, and picked up the bandage. "I mean, your unpredictability is predictable and to be expected."

    "Or maybe you just know me all too well?"

    "Have it ever urred to you I am not simply guessing?" she set her eyes back to him with the bandage in her possession. "That maybe, I am not guessing what you''ll do. But what I will do? Sit properly. I''ll wrap you up."

    Abel let out a dryugh as she crawled behind him, wrapping his inked torso with the bandage. "I don''t think you''ll do that."

    "What do you think I''ll do once I left then?"

    "Keep going until you drop?" He held her wrist that was in front of him from behind, bending his head down to nt a kiss on her knuckles. "Aries will not stop if she already decided to leave. Only when she couldn''t fight her sleep, will she rest and then continue the second she opens her eyes. She won''t waste a second to widen the distance."

    "That''s some wild guess and quite descriptive, too." This time, she spoke his words. Heughed as he cocked his head back at her.

    "Am I wrong?"

    Aries pressed her lips and shook her head. "It was eerily urate. I guess you know me more than I know myself."

    "I''m not sorry about that." He humored, letting her hand go so she could continue bandaging him. As she did, Abel could not help but gaze down at his torso once again.

    "You''re good at this." He pointed out, making Aries smile.

    "I have clumsy siblings." Her smile broadened as her eyes softened. "Also, no one would take care of me in the Maganti Empire. I had to take care of myself."

    Upon the mention of the said ce, Abel wentpletely silent. His eyes glinted, letting her wrap him up. No one knew what he was thinking, but one thing was for sure.

    He disliked the Maganti Empire.

    That alone was enough to narrow down his thoughts. Abel rarely disliked something; he was the type to find the benefit from anything. So for him not to look at the side that could entertain him called for trouble.

    "Aries." He spoke after she was done bandaging his wounds. "Do you want to be my sister?"

 Chapter 83 If She Will Ever Give Her First, It Would Be Him.

    "Do you want to be my sister?"

    Aries sat down on her calf, frowning at Abel''s random question. She watched Abel adjust on his position until he was facing her, lifting his leg up on the mattress.

    "Do you want to be my brother so badly?" she asked with aplicated look in her eyes. This was the second time he asked her the same question, proving he was actually serious about that.

    "May I know the reason?" she inquired.

    "I''ll marry you off."

    "..."

    Her eyes grew icy as her expression instantly died. She wanted to think she had misheard him, but it was hard to deny she did. Didn''t Abel look for her like a madman? Hurting himself in the process? Now, he was telling her he would marry her off?

    The more Aries thought about it, she could not help butugh in mockery. Surely, this wasn''t what she expected from him.

    "You''ll marry me off?" she repeated, lifting a finger to poke the bandaged wound in his chest. "Sure. Is this because you want to covet someone else''s wife now?"

    The side of his lips stretched into a grin,ughing at her wild guess. Abel nted his palms on the mattress, crawling towards her. This time, she didn''t back away until their faces were a palm length away from each other. Up close, he could see the displeasure she hid perfectly well beneath her eyes.

    "Darling, you didn''t want to be my empress, but you''re fine being my mistress. The same goes for me. I don''t mind being your husband, or your mistress," he dawdled seductively, moving his face closer, mouth falling upon getting a whiff of her breath. "Your lover has things you can have and all you have to do is whisper things in his ears while lying naked on the same bed with him."

    Abel tilted his head yfully while the apex of his nose brushed against her cheek. "Even if you be my sister by name, intermarriage was never forbidden in Haimirich. Moreover, no one will be surprised if I fuck my sister. I am Abel."

    "My future husband will get jealous," came out a humor, nting her palm on his shoulder as she slowlyid down while he crawled on top of her. Her eyes remained on the pair of maroon eyes hovering over her. "You''re still injured, Abel."

    "Forget about my injuries, but between your husband and your mistress, were his feelings far more important than mine?"

    "He is my husband." She pointed out. "If you marry me off, don''t me me if I find him pleasing and fulfill our marital duties."

    Aries looked away while he bent over, tracing her neck with his nose. She murmured. "I might actually just do that to spite you."

    "I changed my mind." Heughed, biting her shoulder. Aries winced as she felt his teeth leaving marks on her skin under the thin fabric of her nightdress.

    She raised her brows when Abel created distance between them, hands on her rear, confining her in his arms.

    "Don''t scare me like that, darling." He frowned, blinking innocently.

    "You''re the one who brought that up. Are you serious?"<sub> </sub>

    Abel lowered his body until his weight nketed over her. He moved his head to her side, biting her earlobe lightly.

    "I have a good reason, though." Aries arched a brow, tilting her head slightly at the tingling sensation while he nibbled her ears. "A very good one."

    "How will I know if you don''t tell me?" he grinned at her soft remarks, squeezing her thigh up. "Abel, you''re injured бк ah!"

    Aries winced when he squeezed her thigh tighter, biting her shoulder once again to silence her. She was just concerned about his injuries, but this was what she get in return? She wouldn''t deny the pain, but it was tolerable.

    "Darling, do you think my injuries are enough to stop me?" he crooned, trailing kisses on her neck, licking and sucking ever so tenderly. "Let''s do it."

    "Stop..." she bit her lips, clutching his shoulder tighter. "... stop saying things. It''s embarrassing."

    He grinned against her skin. "Shall we do it?" he asked, his lips on her jaw, barely holding himself back from fucking her... hard.

    "You..." she called through her gritted teeth, holding her breath.

    "Say yes, darling. Although... I can guarantee you, you''ll have to bear with me," came out a whisper, drawing his head back to face her squarely. "You will be dealing with months of pent-up energy I had stored for you."

    Aries bit her inner lip, staring directly into his maizing eyes. The side of his lips curled up charmingly, using his bewitching looks to seduce her.

    "This is unfair," she whispered, calming her racing heart at the tension embracing them tightly, like a chain.

    This was the first; this was her first. Although this was not the first time someone would im her body, this was the first someone asked for her consent.

    She knew Abel. He wasn''t the type to ask for permission; he would just do it. But for him to ask and wait for her answer, and to actually honor whatever response he would receive like he used to, he made her feel that this body... was still hers.

    Even when a particr person imed that her body and life were his, Abel returned that control to her. He gave her that authority she didn''t think she would ever hold again.

    "If I''m going to give this filthy body willingly, I''d like you to be that first mistake." He smirked at her muffled reply. Her body rxed gradually, cupping his sharp jaw, her thumb wiping the corner of his lips.

    "Call my name, Abel," she requested under her breath.

    His smirked remained, stretching wide until his teeth showed. Aries surely blow his mind at the most unexpected times and it was driving him insane.

    Abel bent over, tilting his head to im her lips, and he whispered into her mouth, "I''ll make sure I am the best mistake you''ll ever makeбн Aries."

 Chapter 84 I Hope You Like It Rough

    <strong>[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. PROCEED WITH CAUTION]</strong>

    Abel''s hands were itching... biting her lip sensually until she moan in protest. His hands traced the outline of her body, from thighs, hips, lean waist, feeling the curves of her body until he reached the side of her breast. The hem of her chemise was hooked on his carpals until it was out of the way, tossing it out of the bed whilst standing on his knees.

    He looked down, eyes glowing with desire as her cheeks flushed in red. Oh, how she was so hypnotizing, making his jaw fall, mouth dry.

    Abel nced at the kit not far away, catching the spare bandage in it. As he bent over with his palms on either side of her, he pped the kit with the back of his hand to put it away.

    It tempted him... to cover her eyes while he sates his cravings. This was not the first they held each other''s und body, but this was the first time she looked at him with the same eagerness in her eyes.

    He didn''t want to hurt her... for now.

    Aries''s first, not his.

    They would do it the way she wanted it, and not in his usual sadistic ways. Not the usual... where he would find pleasure in their screams, begging him for mercy until they break, leaving him unsatisfied.

    "Abel," she whispered in his lips, making him squeeze her hips lightly. "Ah..." she winced, tightening her arms around his neck while they shared a passionate kiss.

    "I don''t want to break you..." he nibbled her earlobe, grazing his erection underneath his trousers against her. "... I want you tost, darling."

    Aries clutched his shoulder, toes curling as his lips marked her fair skin. His tongue glided smoothly against her, taking turns with his lips.

    She bit her lower lip to suppress the sound that wanted toe out of her mouth. Abel just started kissing her. But his every touch, every kiss, his breaths, his voice, and every slight pain whenever his violent urges peek from his heart set her body aze.

    The weight nketing over her wrapped her in heat. The longer he stayed, the more her blood boils.

    She never felt this before. All she felt in the past was nothing but disgust. But he... Abel made her feel wanted in everything, showing her the beauty of this level of intimacy.

    Although she couldn''t deny she was noticing his actions. On top of the gentleness in his touches, he wanted more. She noticed it every time he would bite her just to make her moan in pain, kissing her right after.

    "Ahh..." Aries bit her lips instantly, covering it to suppress her moans when he traced kisses on her corbones down to her bosom.

    Abel didn''t beat around the bush and bit her nipple lightly, just enough not to make her jolt.

    He looked up, keeping her teat in between his teeth. She flinched and shuddered every time he teased her by flicking his tongue against her nipple.

    "Stop it..." she looked away, a poor attempt to hide her flustered face. Her mouth fell open when he cupped her other breast, pinching it just to make her look at his eyes.

    "Abel," sheined softly through her gritted teeth, gulping down a mouthful of saliva at the sight of him. He was just staring in silence, making her wonder what he was thinking in this situation.

    If only she knew he was simply gravitating the level of pain he could inflict on her.

    Surely, he didn''t changepletely. But Aries was special. He didn''t want to think of her as someone <strong>''special to torment''</strong> until she break.<sub> </sub>

    Definitely not that... or perhaps he still thought that way and he was simplypromising.

    "Why are you looking at me like that?" she inquired with her nipple still in between his teeth. Her breathing was suspending with the thick air surrounding them. The longer he stared at her in silence, the more it felt embarrassing. She was starting to feel self-conscious under his gaze.

    "Nothing." He shook his head, averting his eyes as he lie tantly. "Definitely nothing."

    Aries bit her inner lips slightly, noticing the reluctance in his demeanor. "I won''t know if you don''t tell me," she urged in a soft voice, feeling his back stiffen as he returned his gaze to her.

    As soon as their eyes met, she instantly knew he had something in mind. She hoped she didn''t know him. Or rather, she wished she wasn''t paying attention. But s, she was. She was paying attention to him from the start until this very second. Therefore, she could tell.

    "I..." Abel breathed out, avoiding to stutter for the first time. "I wished you like it rough."

    Her mouth opened and closed before a voice finally came out. "How rough?"

    He withdrew his head back from her bosom, tilting it to the side. A glint of amusement flickered across his eyes while the side of his lips curled up into a smirk.

    "How rough... you ask?" he dawdled, eyelids dropping until they were partially closed.

    Why would she ask that? He didn''t mind making love with her, but frankly? Normal sex was boring for him. He might find pleasure in it since it was Aries, but even so, he would crave for more.

    The more he suppressed his urges and desire, the more he would want to fulfill that. He might hurt her even more if he tried to y the hero, when, in fact, he wasn''t. Maybe they couldpromise before delving deeper.

    Abel took a deep breath as he stood on his knees once again. His eyes instantlynded on her, noticing his teeth mark on her skin. The sight of it aroused him immediately, but more than that, she barelyined. His hands also left marks on her as he would grip her tighter unintentionally.

    "Just... a little bit of pain will do the trick." His eyes darkened menacingly, wiping the corner of his lips with his thumb. "A little bit of heaven... and hell, darling. Shall we test it?"

    "Will I die?" she held her breath, a bit mortified while waiting for his answer.

    He simpered at the sight of her, bending over only to reach for her wrist and guiding them over his shoulder. "No, silly." He bit her lower lip teasingly while she subconsciously secured her arms around his neck.

    "in bed is just... boring," he whispered into her mouth, snaking his arms around her waist. Before she knew it, her back left the mattress as he carried her up to the headboard.

    "Don''t worry. You''re not naughty enough to deserve someshing." He let her go, crawling out of the bed to pick up the bandage on the floor.

    When he faced her again, a huge smile turned up while holding the bandage delightfully.

    Her brows knitted. "Uh... Abel? What are you nning to do with that?" her voice shook, darting it between his bright smile and the rolled bandage in his hand.

    Looking at him with shaking eyes, Aries gradually realized what she got herself into. However, it was already toote. All she could rely on at this point was her wits and skills to negotiate. He was still open for negotiation... she hoped.

 Chapter 85 Sensory Play

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "I''m scared..."

    Aries muttered as she looked at him hovering over her, binding her hands to the bedpost with the bandage. Her legs crossed, biting her lip as her heart was drumming against her chest.

    Abel paused upon hearing her confession, gazing down to meet her eyes. He pressed his lips into a thin line, tying the knot clumsily so she could free herself anytime she wanted. This was how hepromise.

    "Don''t you like to be tied?" he asked with genuine wonder in his voice.

    "Will you be fine if the situation is reversed?" she asked and frowned when he nodded. "I''m just scared. Being tied is always twinned with torture."

    "I won''t torture you," he cajoled, fluttering his long eyshes coquettishly as if he would sulk the second she changed her mind.

    Aries stared at his frown, sighing faintly while biting her inner lip. Abel wouldn''t force her if she told him she didn''t want to, but that only made her want topromise as well.

    To her, the more she deprive him of something, the more he would crave for it. Abel was not only crazy, but he was also a sadist. Aries already knew that from the very beginning. Even when she returned, she was aware of what she signed up for. He wouldn''t changepletely, so they could onlypromise for the sake of their own peace.

    "I promise," he swore, holding her ankle to the side of his face. "I truly want you tost forever. I won''t hurt you... much."

    Abel leaned to his side, nting a kiss on her ankle with his eyes on her. Aries could not help but gulp, pressing her lips into a thin line.

    "Ca бк can I...in if it''s too much?" she stammered, clutching her tied hands. "Will you stop if I said stop?"

    "Mhm. Just tell me." He smiled as he bit her ankle slightly. "Too much?"

    She shook her head while holding her breath. "Not much."

    As soon as her answer slipped past her lips, Abel bit her once more. This time, she winced as his teeth dug into her skin, leaving teeth marks on it.

    "Ahh..." came out a faint squeal as she clenched her teeth.

    "Too much?" Abel nted a soft kiss on the teeth mark he left, guiding her ankle down gently.

    "It''s... tolerable," Aries replied weakly as he crawled towards her. He paused momentarily, staring at her flustered face.

    Oh... no.

    "Don''t make that face, darling," he spoke in a daze, staring at her slightly pained visage. "If you keep saying you can endure it, I will just increase the level of pain and I won''t stop until it kills you."

    "But it''s really bearable."

    "I know." He smirked, holding his hands up while sitting in between her legs. "But let''s take it slow. You have no idea all the bad things I want to do only to you, but I don''t want you to die. I told you, I want you tost for a lifetime."<sub> </sub>

    His smirk remained, avoiding touching her with his eyes on her. With Aries tied up on the bedpost, naked, there were so many things he wanted to do to her. The list was long and yet he knew where exactly he would start.

    "For now, I''ll just take away your... movements." He smiled brightly while she held her breath. "Next time, your sight."

    Being restrained was not new to her. But this was the first she was looking forward to it. Just what was he nning? Abel always told her pain and pleasuree hand in hand. That one wouldn''t know the real meaning of pleasure without a little pain.

    She didn''t know that, but she kept an open mind. It was not like she was an expert in these things. She never knew pleasure, but pain was an old friend of hers.

    Was there actually beauty in it?

    As her body rxed whilst keeping her eyes on him, she witnessed the evil smirk resurface on his face. He hadn''t touched her for minutes now, leaving her only tied up awkwardly.

    "Abel..." Aries trailed off as she shuddered at the heated touch of his fingertips on her bent knees. Her eyes dted as her lower lips quivered, toes curling. The time he didn''t touch her until her body rxed took her off guard when he finally did.

    This time, her body could feel that that light tap was not just a mere touch! It was more than just that. The restraint heightened her sensory touch, making her heart tingle.

    Abel smirked smugly as she finally realized how one''s senses were heightened once one sense was taken away from them. He didn''t have any material, but that wasn''t a problem with him. He had his hands, mouth, and tongue.

    He would make her beg.

    He licked his lips, eyes glossing over her und body. "Where shall I start?" he crooned dangerously, crawling towards her until her face was only a palm length away from her.

    "Hmm?" He hummed, tracing her jaw with the apex of her nose. "My Aries?"

    Her breath instantly hitched when he licked her ears sensually. She bit her lip as hard as she could, fighting the tickling sensation that caused her legs to close. But before she could, his knee blocked it, pinning it down on the bed.

    "Don''t be naughty. Keep them open for me," he whispered in her ears, nibbling the tip of her ear. "Or I will have no choice but to do it myself."

    "Mhm --!" she rxed her trembling thigh as his knee pressed on it lightly.

    Heughed with his lips closed. "Good girl."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line tighter as her body shrunk, tensing at the movements of his lips and tongue on her skin. Abel bit and kissed her ears teasingly, going down to her corbones.

    An abrupt sound escaped her mouth when he cupped her breast, but he didn''t stop with kissing, licking, and flicking around her body except for her nipples.

    He was driving her crazy with a sensory overload each time his thumb pressed on her teat, making her squirm underneath with herher region clenching for more.

    She gazed at him, mouth falling open. "Abel..." she whispered in between her ragged breathing, but he ignored her. Instead, his palms felt her curves kissing her down until she shuddered when his lips and tongue yed with her navel.

    "How exciting," came out a dark voice, simpering as he nced up at her. "Oh... bless her heart."

 Chapter 86 Lick Me Down There...

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "Ah..."

    Aries''s mouth fell open, watching him give her little pecks across her body. Each time his lips wouldnd on her skin, it would leave her goosebumps. She bit her lips when he nced up, licking the inside of her legs while having deep eye contact with her.

    ''I want to touch him,'' were the very words that are suddenly hovered over her head.

    It was crazy, she thought. How his touches and kisses gave her different sensations every time, setting her body on fire the longer he teased. It embarrassed her how she surrendered so easily, but the spark of madness within her had let itself known.

    "Abel..." she called under her breath, curling her toes as soon as his hot breath kissed her core. She was overflowing with love nectar, and with her legs spread open for him to see everything, Aries held her breath.

    It was not the first time she stood naked in front of him, but this was the first time he looked at her flower for so long. And yet, she couldn''t find the will to close them as his eyes soaked with desire. When Abel raised his sharp eyes back at her, her breath hitched.

    "Please," he intoned as he bent over, rubbing his cheek against her inner thigh while his arm was wrapped around it. "Please Abel, lick me down there," he instructed.

    Stubborn as she was, Aries shut her lips as tight as she could. She had been wanting to beg him, but she held it in with the little dignity she didn''t know where it came from. Even Aries was amazed at how she persevered with all the teasing that made her head buzz.

    Abel smirked, loving her stubbornness. That only means more time to tease her, to grope her, to kiss her, to lick her, and to just taste every part of her. He didn''t mind. He was enjoying her pleasure for his own pleasure.

    He licked his lips as he ran his tongue along the tip of her slit, making her entire body quiver. Her zipped mouth instantly fell open, breathing heavily through it.

    "Ah...!" Her back arched, face wrinkling as she grimaced. His tongue smoothly glided but stopped right before it could reach her erged clitoris. Instead, it continued to explore the inner and outer folds of her vulva.

    He was tasting everything with his mouth, sucking the upper part of her slit and biting it teasingly. He was exploring everything except her clitoris. It was intentional, she thought, and that was slowly driving her crazy.

    Aries instinctively moved her feet, but before she could touch him, Abel grabbed her legs. He pinned it down, keeping her legs spread open for him. Fortunately, Aries was quite flexible as she only felt her muscle stretched. But that didn''t matter.

    She could only think of one thing. The building up frustration. Abel was ignoring a very important part of her and... she never thought it would be this frustrating.

    The heart of her femininity cried a river for her, wanting to be touched shamelessly. She shuddered, panting for air, as her body broke out in sweats. Her lips parted as they quivered, but her voice was stuck in her throat when his tongue flicked her clit once.

    Just one time, Abel licked the love juices gushing out from her up to her clit. He was the one who licked her, but Aries felt like she was the one who had a taste of the height of pleasure. Just one careful lick, and she writhed underneath him.

    p It felt good... so good it was frustrating to the core.</anda>

    Abel left her wanted for more as he nted kisses across her trembling hips. His lips curled up as her skin would vibrate against his lips. He raised a brow when she finally gave in.

    "Pl бк please..." her breath hitched, biting her tongue as he slowly set his darkening eyes on her.<sub> </sub>

    "Mhm?" he tilted his head, eyes soaked with lust. He nted a kiss on her navel while keeping eye contact with her. "Please, what?"

    Her heart tingled whilst looking at him. Her face shed in red, gulping the building tension in her throat. With her hands bound on the bedpost and his weight over her thigh and his hand holding down the other, Aries took a deep breath.

    What was the point of being stubborn when she was literally lying naked, legs spread for him to see all her glory? She just wanted relief. She couldn''t even think straight as herher region was clenching, weeping in agony, wanting somepany.

    "Lick me..." came out a muffled voice, on the verge of tears. "Lick me down there, Abel... please."

    Oh, my god...

    His mouth fell open at the pitiful sight of her. He simply teased her by kissing her, avoiding some crucial parts, making her want for more. But that was already enough to make her cry!

    It moved his heart. He was almost in tears! Or rather, he nearly jumped on her to im her once and for all. Oh, Aries... she was truly special. This was the first, he thought, that he felt impatient.

    The side of his lips curled up, biting his lower lip to restrain it from stretching broader. "Happily." He tilted his head down, kissing her inner thigh.

    Abel kept her eyes on her, seeing her mixed expression of anticipation and shame. She was beautiful, like a piece of art he could stare at all day. And that made it all the way better because, despite her overwhelmed heart, her eyes knew what they wanted.

    HIM.

    His eyes narrowed as he lowered his head to her core. He never felt like he wanted to please someone so much in his life.

    As a reward, Abel licked her overflowing honeypot ever so tenderly up to her clitoris. His tongue moved very slowly and very intensely, making her squirm underneath her restraint.

    One thing he learned by teasing her was that Aries was very sensitive and innocent. It was so easy to bring her to the brink and then back down until she was literally squirming all over the bed.

    Abel slurped the love juices meant for him before licking a finger. Using the back of his long middle finger, he slid it from the top of her slit down to her entrance, and without prior''s notice, he inserted it inside her.

    That second, she shuddered as he continued to lick her clitoris whilst thrusting a finger.

    "I want you to orgasmбн" Abel trailed off as she screamed his name before she contracted around his finger. "бн that was quite fast."

    Aries panted for air as she moved her shaking vision to him. Her body jolted, clenching her teeth as he pulled his finger out of her, only to lick it seductively. He kept his eyes on her, showing her how he licked her semen around his finger.

    "I want to tease you for the next three hours, darling," came out a dawdled, unzipping his trousers to show his humongous erection. "Butбн you make it very challenging. You make me want to fuck you until your ears bleed."

 Chapter 87 She Was Breaking His Routine And She Didnt Even Know

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "Butбн you make it very challenging. You make me want to fuck you until your ears bleed."

    Aries gulped as her eyes dted, staring down at his lower region. She had seen it multiple times already. However, right now, she knew for a fact that massive mast would go inside her.

    "Don''t... hurt me," came out a whisper, a natural reaction upon sensing danger. She didn''t know if this was because she had met orgasm for the first time, but all sorts of ideas were surging inside her head.

    His pairs of vermilion soaked with his deepest and darkest desire. His bandaged body didn''t even cross her mind, as that didn''t seem to bother him, as if he didn''t have injuries in the first ce. All she could do was hold her breath, watching him lick his thumb, only to smear it on the tip of his erection.

    Abel narrowed his eyes as he touched himself right in front of her, watching how her eyes dte and pupils constrict. He couldn''t even remember since thest time he touched himself, or if he ever did in the past. There were always avable to do the job for him.

    But now... he wanted her to watch. To look at him, to desire to touch him, and to simply wish she could take part in it. He smirked.

    Oh, how she would look so glorious with a rope around her naked body.

    Aries barely blinked as she gulped once again, hearing it in her own ears. He was touching himself while looking at her. There was no trace of shame, just confidence. And yet, she couldn''t help but hold her breath.

    ''This is unfair...'' her subconscious mindined, biting her inner lip. "Why... are you doing this?"

    She adjusted her feet to touch him but stopped when he shook his head.

    "You are only allowed to watch, darling," came out a yful voice, holding his manhood with his thumb pressed on top of it. "ytime''s over if you touch me."

    "What..." her heart sank, clutching the sheet with her toes.

    Didn''t he say he wanted to do it? That he was getting impatient? Why does he keep postponing it?

    Her face blushed in beet-red, realizing her naughty thoughts. How could she think like this? As if she was thirsty and hungry? Well, she was... thirst and hungry.

    Who would have thought? She wondered. That watching him stroke his phallus with his sharp eyes on her would feel... tempting?

    "To бк touch me..." she stammered under her breath, making him pause. Just watching and doing nothing made her itch for more. She must''ve lost her mind, she thought, but never mind.

    "... please."

    Abel''s eyes darkened as he tilted his head down slightly. His eyes fell on her bound hands before setting them back to her flustered face. She surely knew how to make a face that would make him go to his knees, making his erection grow and tear up.

    He didn''t even get to see blood just to get aroused or go full-blown hardcore forey. Just a little bit of teasing truly did the trick.

    "Do you want to touch me?" he inquired in a deep, curious voice.<sub> </sub>

    "Ye бк yes..."

    "Come over here." He crooked a finger while tilting his head. "Just pull your hands. That bandage is very easy to break."

    Aries awkwardly gazed up, taking a deep breath as she slid her hands out of the bandage. It wasn''t tied securely, but it wouldn''t also easilye off identally. Even so, her wrist went numb slightly, so she massaged it as she sat upright.

    "Crawl." She froze when he spoke just as she set her eyes back to him.

    "Huh?"

    "Crawl your way to me." A misced smile dominated his face while her expression went nk momentarily.

    She estimated the distance between them, and he was simply at arm''s length. There shouldn''t be a problem with that, right? With that in mind, Aries cleared her throat and crawled ever so slowly. But just as she was about to get up and stand on her knees just like him, he ced a hand on her back.

    Her entire body froze, muscle tensing up at the hand that felt her spine slow down to her buttocks. Aries flinched when he grabbed her bun. She looked up, wide-eyed, only for it to dte even more at the sight of his erection right in front of her.

    Sensing her shock, Abel nced at her, looking at his man''s jewel. "Do you want it?" he asked with genuine wonder in his voice.

    "I... I... don''t know."

    "Suck it and see if you''ll enjoy sucking." This time, she shifted her dted eyes at him while he chuckled with his lips closed. "I''m not forcing you, though."

    There was a moment of silence between them as they shared deep eye contact with one another. Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, wanting to explore what she would like and not.

    She didn''t say a word as she peeled her eyes away from him, setting them back on his massive manhood. Another gulp was heard in her ear before sticking her tongue out, licking just the head of his erection.

    "Ugh..." he hissed through his gritted teeth, causing her to sneak a nce at him. The sudden change of his dark visage to something that appeared vulnerable fueled her to do it again. So Aries did.

    She repeated what she did, sticking her tongue out to lick the head of his manhood. It started with one curious lick, but when his hand ran through her hair, Aries opened her mouth and put its head inside her mouth.

    "Don''t bite it," he reminded her under his breath. "I''ll hurt you if you do."

    Aries didn''t reply as her tongue massaged his girth ever so slowly. She knew he liked it when he guided her head to suck him deeper.

    "Ariesбн stop now," he whispered which she thankfully abide. But the second she withdrew her head, she felt herself being lifted up by her shoulder until she stood on her knees,ing face to face with him.

    "Definitely inexperiencedбн" he pointed out under his breath, wrapping his arm around her waist as he lowered his body until his erection was right in front of her entrance. "бн I''ll teach you next time until your jaw falls off."

    "Hahбн!" she gasped and shivered as he prated her without prior''s notice, stilling her with his arm to screw her while standing up.

 Chapter 88 So Damn Fine

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    Aries shivered, clutching onto Abel''s shoulder on instinct. It felt as though a thousand electric current waved through the ends of her nerves, causing her knees to tremble and hunch in. If not for Abel''s arm that was stilling her waist, she would''ve copsed and writhed on the bed because the pain was real.

    Because of his massive girth and unannounced entrance, it caught her off guard. Although her femininity was soaking wet, Abel was humongous. She still felt her flesh get ripped, making her jump nearly.

    "Ah..." she gasped for her, feeling her energy get drained with just one thrust. Her heart was racing with different sensations, afraid to move a muscle.

    Meanwhile, Abel gazed down at her, feeling her body vibrate under his grip. He knew that hurt her, but that brought him mixed emotions. Hence, he kept still until she recovered from the initial pain. He bent his head down, nting soft kisses on top of her head until her body rxed.

    "Aries," he whispered, lifting her chin up with his left hand. He tilted his head down, iming her lips while she wrapped her limbs around his neck.

    His soft lips felt crushingly soothing, making her squeeze her body against him. With her eyes closed, she felt her knees leave the mattress, wrapping her legs around his waist on instinct. She didn''t know where he was taking her, and only realized it when she felt a hard surface on her buttocks.

    Thanks to his towering stature, the table where he sat her down with his erection still deep inside her made her feel him whole. He wanted to hurt her by hammering her hot and soft insides, but at the same time, he wanted to treat her right.

    "Oh... Aries..." Abel ran his hands up from her spine to the back of her head to massage her scalp. He pressed his lips against hers deeply, curling his fingers before tugging her hair back whilst biting her lower lip.

    p Her lips bled slightly, but she let it stay in between his teeth. His touches and her inmed body had slowly clouded her head, unable to think about anything but the pain and pleasure that was taking turns in conquering her. She felt intoxicated as if she was under a spell.</anda>

    "Uh..." She panted for air, stretching her neck as he traced kisses on it. "... Abel." Her throat dried up with her bare chest pressing against his solid front.

    She was going crazy for wanting to be touched even more. Something... she wanted to feel something... more.

    "I want... you," she whispered, feeling his back stiffen momentarily. All she felt in response was a tight bite on her shoulder de, making her wince and moan at the same time.

    "Oh, darling... you''re driving me insane," he confessed under his breath, letting her body go just to push her down. Aries slightly bumped her head against the table, but it didn''t hurt much with his guidance.

    With the cold surface of the table against her back, Aries shivered when Abel nted his heated palm on her abdomen. She looked at him with shaking eyes, mouth falling open at the deadly pair of vermilion hovering over her. She felt like the devil was staring back at her and yet, it didn''t scare her.

    She was anticipating him.

    Abel held her ankles up to the table before pulling her thighs down the edge. A muffled yelp slipped past her lips as she felt him deeper into her abdomen. It felt like he could reach her intestines, leaving her body trembling.

    "Abel..." She reached her hand towards him, only for him to hold it down to her side. Along with it was his body, bending over to im her lips, massaging her lips with his tongue.

    "Mhm бк!" His gentle kiss only soothed her temporarily because a secondter, he pounded his hips against her. She jolted underneath him, running her nails on his back.

    "No -- no... Abel, ah..."

    He inhaled all her moans as if they were foods he needed, shifting his mouth to her neck and shoulders. Wherever his lipsnd, he left a mark on his territory whilst hammering her slowly and intensely.

    "Hurts..." came out a weak voice through her gritted teeth. He was too massive for her and Abel slowly picking up his pace was something she wasn''t ready for. However, her heart sank when Abel whispered right in front of her ear.<sub> </sub>

    "I know, Aries." He bit her ears sensually before letting it go. "But I will hurt you, anyway."

    This time, his weight finally left her front. All she could do was watch him straighten his back, witnessing how his lips curl up evilly with a dangerous glint flickering across his eyes.

    He would hurt her, she thought. He would definitely hurt her, and that made her heart race until she was catching up to her breathing. But all she did was gulp instead of running away. She was far too deep to stop, biting her lower lip when he began to move his hips while holding her hips securely.

    "Ah--!" she didn''t cover her lips to let go that pained moan, feeling herself stretch to his girth. He kept growing bigger with every thrust, forcing out more moans from her.

    Abel kept his eyes on her flustered face and sweating body. He gritted his teeth, moving in and out, regardless if it was painful or not. His mouth fell open, watching her squirm from pain and pleasure, losing her shame as her expression told him she started enjoying it.

    When a reckless "yes" slipped past her lips, Abel squeezed her hips tightly.

    He wanted to hear it again; her voice, her moans, her call, his name from those lips. He pounded harder and faster, holding her legs up, and hugged them to his side.

    "Ugh... god damn..." he clenched his teeth, feeling her tighten around him after putting her legs together. He would orgasm this fast... and that surprised him even more.

    "Abel, I... Uhm!" Aries turned away, biting her finger at the euphoria creeping into her heart. "... I feel like... Abel... I...!"

    Before she could finish her sentence, Aries squealed and writhed. She tried to reach for anything, holding the edge of the table as she contracted around him. Her body convulsed, flinching, but he didn''t stop. Instead, Abel thrust harder and faster until he grunted.

    He didn''t pull out as he hunched in, jerking inside her. He rested his forehead on her chest that was moving up and down heavily, biting her nipple, which caused her to shudder.

    "Youбн" he whispered in between his deep breaths. "бн are so damn fine."

    This time, he moved up to kiss her cheek gently. Unlike his merciless actions during intercourse, his kissing this time was gentle and soothing.

    "Abelбн" came out a soft voice, snaking her arms around his neck while letting him nibble on her neck. "бн I liked it," she confessed, giving her verdict about consensual sex.

    He smiled against her skin, drawing his head back to look at her in the eye. "What?"

    "You heard itбн" she frowned, biting her inner lip.

    "Say it anyway."

    "Iбн" her breath hitched as she felt him move his hips to remind her he was still inside. Her eyes slightly dted, studying the evil smile on his face.

    "Mhm?" he raised his brows, brushing her cheek with the back of his hand. "You, what?"

    Aries knew that repeating those words would be followed by another round of passion, but her words had already escaped her mouth. "Iбн liked it."

    "I loved it," he dawdled, nting his lips on her corbones delicately. "I don''t think I will ever get enough."

 Chapter 89 The Man Who Haunts Her Even In Her Happiest Times

    Abel didn''t stop in one orgasm. He continued on and on, like a beast who couldn''t get enough of his prey. Aries was able to keep up with him for the first three rounds, but on the fourth, she just wanted to run away. Fortunately, Abel was kind enough for her to take a break.

    Just ten minutes of break to catch up to her breathing and stimtion. Yes. Just a ten-minute break before owning her body once again. It was almost amazing how Abel could orgasm continuously without feeling weak. It was as if he had an unlimited source of semen.

    Aries lost count on how many times she went from wet to dry, and vice versa. He only stopped when her hipbone slightly crack, immobilizing her from the waist down. She felt numb from the pain and pleasure, but it was overall a good and intense experience.

    "I think... I''m crippled," she muttered as she watched him cover her body with the white sheet after carrying her back on the bed. "I can''t feel my legs anymore."

    Abelughed with his lips closed, slipping underneath the nket beside her. "Don''t panic. You''ll be able to walk after a few days." He kissed her eye, making her shut it briefly.

    "I doubt." She frowned, lifting her head slightly as he snaked his arm under her head. She was feeling sore down there, her bones wobbly, and her muscles in her body felt like she was beaten terribly. Without his help, she could not even roll to her side.

    "Can''t me you," he whispered, settling his hand on her back after helping her lie on her side so they were facing each other. "I might fuck you tomorrow morning, lunch, and dinner."

    "It''s already morning," she mumbled, ncing at the window. The sky was already turning dark blue.

    "Then once you wake up... or before."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, eyes on him. Abel looked different during and after intercourse. During sex, he didn''t mind hurting her. The only constion was that he was still holding back... a bit. But right after, he would kiss and hold her gently. His actions were driving her crazy.

    "Hmm?" he hummed after her prolonged stares.

    "Did your wound open up?" she asked without even thinking about it.

    "Do you want to check?"

    She shook her head. "You seem fine. It''s a miracle."

    "That''s because I''m immortal!" He humored while she didn''t take it seriously. Instead, Aries let out a deep exhale, burying her face in between his neck and shoulder.

    "I''m sleepy," she confessed, almost sweetly. "Don''t let me go, I''m cold."

    Abel snapped his brows up, wrapping his limbs around her tighter. He stroked her spine delicately, feeling her breaths on his neck. She said she was sleepy and tired, but her breathing was still careful.

    They spent some time in silence. Although her eyes were shut closed and she could feel her fatigue dominating her, she couldn''t seem to sleep. Even so, she kept her eyes shut until she heard him break the quietness.

    "Thank you," he whispered, lips on top of her head. "Just stay with me forever, Aries. You''re the only one I have."

    Her eyes softened as a subtle smile resurfaced on her face. How could he say she was the only one he had? It should be Aries who should im those words; Abel was the only one she had, and that was the reason she came back.

    He had an empire, people, wealth, and everything. It was quite a contradiction for him to im Aries was the only one he had. But even so, even if it was a ''lie,'' those words moved her. It made her feel important and needed.<sub> </sub>

    It even sounded sweeter than the overused three words most people would say to their significant other. They were together, uncertain if it was out of love or hate. But they preferred the blurry lines. Because at the end of the day, one thing was an unchanging fact.

    They would sacrifice the world just to feel each other''s bodies once again. Even if it was wrong or sinful, they would seek each other.

    ? Aries snaked her hand over him, pressing her body against him. "Let''s do it againter, " she whispered, closing her eyes ever so slowly. "Until your wounds open up."

    "I would love to." He chuckled, closing his eyes as he basked in the warmth of her body. "Sleep well, my darling."

    Abel nted another soft peck on top of her head, settling there to sniff her hair. This time, the smile that was dominating his face was genuine, with a content heart.

    Aries was the special poison that kept him calm and collected. Although he still wanted to go for another round, she hadpromised. So, he wanted to let her take a break. What was for sure was that he wouldn''t let her go the moment she woke up.

    "Let''s do it in every corner of this ce, darling," he whispered, yawning while still brushing her back with his knuckles. "I don''t want to sleep."

    In the past, Abel would stay awake for days because he didn''t appreciate the haunting nightmares. But now, he didn''t want to sleep because she might be gone if he did. But well, he made sure she wouldn''t be able to use her legs for days. So there was no need to worry.

    Despite his reluctance to sleep, Abel soon fell into a deep slumber. A deep sleep where he didn''t have a nightmare. Instead, he was pulled into a beautiful dream.

    A dream where Aries was there, watching Aries stand in the middle of a flower field under a beautiful weather. Her beautiful green locks and skirt flowed back along with the breeze. When she looked back at him, her lips stretched into a sweet smile.

    "Abelбн you''re here?"

    In his dream, Aries reached her hand in his direction, inviting him toe close. He smiled gently, walking towards her to join her. However, when he blinked his eyes, the flower field disappeared, reced by fire and corpses loitering around with Aries kneeling in a knight''s armor.

    Her eyes were nk, gazing at the man before her. The man squatted down with an evil smirk. He pinched her chin, gazing at her in delight.

    "She''ll live," came out a dark and wicked voice. "She''ll be my trophy for this expedition."

    All she could do was stare at the man nkly, whispering to her heart, "help meбн" came out a muffled and desperate voice. "бн Abel."

    <strong>**</strong>

    "бн Abel."

    Abel opened his eyes ever so slowly. His gazended on her, mumbling his name in her sleep. He didn''t have a dream. It was Aries''s dream and nightmare.

    "Ahhбн" came out a hoarse voice, pulling her closer to him and rubbing her back to soothe her. His eyes emanated murderous intent, contradicting his careful stroke. "бн right. That wretched empire and that damned manбн still exists."

 Chapter 90 Their Expectations Was Far From Reality

    Conan stood outside the Rose pce, eyes full of worry. Last night was a disaster and a nightmare. Even though Abel suddenly went silentst night, everyone assumed it was because he snapped. Right... Abel shouting and going crazy was the first level of the emperor''s craziness.

    If Abel went silent all at once, that was dangerous. That only meant something bad was brewing in his head. Aside from that, Conan''s genuine worry was Abel''s well-being.

    Who wouldn''t?

    Abel was the happiest around Aries. She was the emperor''s breath of fresh air, the only woman... no, the only person in history who actually tamed Abel. Although she was human, Abel did things no one would ever think he would in this lifetime.

    Not to mention the gradual change of atmosphere in the pce and the entire empire. Since Abel was so busy fawning over Aries, everyone could rx around him. They just had to remind him of Aries and everything would be t out, avoiding the catastrophe named Abel.

    Even Isaiah used Aries''s name at least once or twice to get Abel to think rationally. In other words, Aries didn''t just be Abel''s pet but also everyone''s shield without her knowledge.

    Now that she left the pce, they could only think everything would be back to what it was used to... or worse.

    "It will take some time for His Majesty toe out from there." Conan snapped his eyes and turned his head to his side upon hearing Isaiah''s voice. "While he is wallowing inside the Rose pce, it is better if you work on the things he had to deal with so he wouldn''t return with a mountain of paperwork."

    p "I think a mountain of paperwork is what he needs once hees out of the Rose pce." Conan peeled his eyes away from the man standing beside him, setting his eyes back at the Rose Pce. He fixed his eyes on the particr balcony бк Aries''s room. They knew Abel was inside that room.</anda>

    "His Majesty will need distractions, lots of distractions if he didn''t want to chase after Lady Aries. He said he would, after a few months, so I have to make sure he will be busy for the following months."

    "This is for the better," said Isaiah, staring in the same direction Conan was looking at. "Lady Aries is a smartdy. The more she stays in here, the more curious she will be. It''ll be a shame if the person His Majesty was so fond of dies in his hands. You know very well how humans can be so fickle. They care for you one second, and then condemn you in a blink of an eye."

    Isaiah''s eyes glinted as he watched the ss door of the balcony open ever so slowly. "His Majesty shouldn''t experience the same betrayal from humans again. Let''s set aside his personal feelings, but he will destroy everything. The only reason he isn''t doing that now is that he had forgotten his reason for establishing Haimirich in the first ce."

    Conan shed a depressed expression while listening to Isaiah''s remarks. He couldn''t disagree with him, because what he said was nothing but facts. Abel''s past was heart-wrenching that until now angered Conan whenever he thought about it.

    Abel wasn''t like this way back. He was kind like an angel, but s... people condemned him because he was different.

    It would be no different if Aries knew that. She wasn''t lovesick enough for her to ept what even this world couldn''t ept.

    Aries simply wanted to survive, and Abel fell for her, knowing that. So, even if they turned the world upside down, Aries was her own person and they couldn''t force her to ept everything, especially after all the atrocities inflicted on her.

    "I hope His Majesty will find... peace...?" Conan trailed off as his brows furrowed, watching Abel appear on the balcony. Unlike what they expected, Abel leaned against the railings with a clear smile stered on his face.

    Isaiah also could not help but knit his brows, tilting his head in confusion. They assumed Abel wouldn''t leave that room for days and stay in it doing nothing but talk to his own demons. However, right now, not only did Abele out of the room, but he had this smile as if he had the best night of his life.<sub> </sub>

    "What the...?" Conan mumbled, feeling a little anxious at Abel''s good mood. "... why is he smiling from ear to ear? Did he forget aboutst night?"

    He nearly jumped when Abel arched a brow and moved his gaze at them. To their surprise, Abel waved at them with his lips still stretched from ear to ear.

    "Oh, my god... did he snap already?" Conan gasped in horror, staring back at the emperor on the balcony with hostility. They would understand if Abel would appear distraught or if he wouldn''t appear for a week at all.

    But this? Abel smiling? As if he was living the best days of his life? That was even more rming.

    "He''s saying something. Shut up." Isaiah narrowed his eyes as Abel was mouthing something. "Breakfast?" he tilted his head, entirely confused at this situation.

    "He wants breakfast?" he repeated in a questioning tone.

    Before they could crack what happened for Abel to be in this great mood бк as if he didn''t stab himself repeatedlyst night бк they saw him crook a finger. Isaiah and Conan looked at each other briefly before walking to the garden where the balcony was at.

    "Please bring me a sumptuous meal." Abel propped his jaw against his knuckles, gazing down at the two below the balcony. "And don''t let peoplee to the Rose pce for a week. I want to stay here for a... vacation."

    "Your Majesty, are you nning to set the world on fire??" asked Conan without beating around the bush.

    "Conan, I am not that irrational." Abel frowned, making Conan look at him with disdain. "Although I might... some people let themselves known in my head, but I will deal with themter."

    The side of Abel''s lips curled up evilly, showing that he was thinking of something evil in his head. Whatever it was, his vassal knew it was not good... especially for those people he mentioned.

    "Anyway, bring me healthy meals on time and even snacks that are rich in nutrients." Abel smacked his lips before he looked back inside the room. "Darling, you''re awake?"

    Abel just waved at the two outside, strutting back inside the room without another word. Meanwhile, Conan and Isaiah looked at each other once again before gazing up at the balcony. The former''s eyes dted as he heard Aries'' hoarse voice even from this distance.

    Conan gasped, covering his mouth with his palm. He couldn''t speak a word as he gazed at the empty balcony nkly.

    "It seems... Marquess Vandran purposely mislead us," Isaiah muttered, eyes still on the balcony. "I bet he wasughing whilst knowing we were worried about His Majesty. I will surely teach him a lesson next time."

    "That abominable bastard...!" Conan ground his teeth, recalling Dexter''s poker face while telling them Aries left the capital safely. "I will kill him!"

 Chapter 91 A Good Day To Screw Someone Over

    "It''s too early for you to wake up, darling."

    Abel sat down on the edge of the mattress while Aries stretched her hand to him. He raised a brow before meeting her hand.

    "I can''t move," came out a coarse voice, squeezing his hand midway. She felt sorest night, but the moment she woke up, the soreness and fatigued heightened. She could barely feel her legs.

    "Of course, you can''t." A smug grin instantly dominated his face, tilting his head down slightly as he caressed her cheek. "Why did you wake up so early? Hungry?"

    Aries pressed her lips tightly, tugging his hand. Taking notice of her sweet and subtle ''seduction,'' Abel let out a shallow breath as he moved and sat on her side.

    <o>,m "Better?" he asked, helping her rest her head on hisp, her arms around his hips.</o>

    "Mhm." She hummed, closing her weary eyes to rest them a bit more. "I had a bad dream," she whispered, opening her eyes ever so slowly.

    "Ahh... it''s about that ce again?" he inquired despite having a glimpse of her nightmarest night.

    "No," Aries muttered, keeping a momentary silence.

    She had nightmaresst night about how she became a ve in Maganti Empire. However, Aries was already numb with that kind of nightmare. What forced her to wake up was the dream she jumped into after her first nightmare.

    Her eyes softened as her limbs wrapped around him tightened. "It''s about you, Abel."

    "Oh? Tell me about it." He stroked her hair gently, massaging her scalp while staring down at her.

    "In my dreams, you''re gone, Abel." Her cheek squished against his thigh as she sighed. "Not dead, but gone like never exist. No one remembers you, not Sir Conan, Lord Darkmore, or Marquess Vandran. It was scarier than you dying."

    "Oh... that''s strange."

    "It''s the real nightmare."

    Abel continued to stroke her hair before the side of his lips curled up subtly. If only she knew how heart-melting it was that she was clinging on to him because she had a bad dream.

    "Darling, how was that a nightmare?" A low chuckle escaped his mouth while ying with her soft hair. "You remembered me. It doesn''t matter if the world had forgotten my name. For as long as there is one person who remembers me, that is good enough for me."

    Aries frowned, feeling a little needy or just sort of arrogant reassurance. "That''s selfish."

    "Well, that is because I am selfish." Heughed proudly, but his eyes were gentle. "If death finally caught up to me, I will ept that reckoning with open arms. I won''t struggle just because you''ll be sad. What''s important to me is someone will mourn for my death genuinely. That''s the kind of man I am."

    "Don''t say things like that." Her frown grew worse, ncing up just to re at him. Since she couldn''t really move with her body aching all over, Aries opened her mouth to bite his thigh. But instead of Abel reacting strongly, he simply blinked cluelessly.

    "Ouch?" he tilted his head, making her stop biting him. "Darling, is that a punishment, or are you trying to seduce me? I am sincerely puzzled."<sub> </sub>

    "Help me."

    "Huh?"

    "Help me get off of you. I will ignore you," Aries muttered in a dead tone, wanting to roll over, but her lower half was almost dead. She wasn''t even exaggerating.

    "Pfft--! No." Abel yfully massaged her scalp to tickle her. "Stay like this."

    "I hate you." She buried half of her face in his thigh, stopping herself from rolling her eyes from the tickling sensation in her head.

    "That''s alright. You''ll still be screaming my nameter. Hehe."

    "I really... really hate you."

    His grin stretched broader, unapologetic at her abhorrence. For some reason, those three words still sounded so sweet in his ears. He massaged her head until her blinks grew weaker and they shut closed.

    "She just woke up because of a bad dream," he whispered, chuckling while shaking his head lightly. "How cute."

    His eyes grew gentle, cing his palm on his chest. His heart was beating like normal, but it felt different. It felt... full. As if the emptiness in it was now overflowing with something he couldn''t put in words.

    He gazed at her, who fell asleep with her head on his thigh, arms still wrapped around him, although they were loose. He stroked her head affectionately, petting her to make her sleep deeply.

    "How nice," he whispered with a subtle smile. "Really nice."

    Abel remained in that position for as long as he could. He turned his head to the window, noticing that the weather was quite good as well. In his eyes, everything just seemed perfect. It was as if he could see the world in an entirely different light.

    It didn''t look grey where the only distinct color he could see was red. It now looked radiating. He didn''t know whether to shut his eyes, afraid of getting blinded or keeping them open to admire its beauty. Either way, it was really pleasing in the eye.

    "Today... is surely a good day..." he smiled as his eyes glinted. "What a good day to screw someone over."

    His subtle and gentle smile gradually turned brighter, in high spirits with the evil thought that shed in his head. Surely, Abel would always be Abel and he had his priorities. For example, those who left those scars in her body.

    Aries''s body was littered with scars. Although she was taken care of in this ce, causing her scars to lighten, it was impossible to erase thempletely. The reason he left hickeys all over her, concealing all those scars with his marks.

    She didn''t know that, but Abel was miffed every time he looked at them. Not because it made her ''less'', but they were the reminder of Aries''s sufferings, and no justice was served... yet.

    "It will be fun." He smiled, setting his eyes back to her. "Sleep well, my darling. You need more energy so we can have fun screwing people over."

 Chapter 92 [Bonus Chapter]Its Not Politics, Its Personal.

    "I feel so full I think I would throw up."

    Aries rolled to her side, feeling a bit dizzy from gobbling her breakfast so fast, only to regret it right after. Just minutes ago, right after she woke up, and slowly panicked seeing Abel not on her side, he returned while pushing a food trolley with him.

    It was almost hrious and a sweet sight to see him acting like a butler. He was the emperor of a very rich country, so watching him serve her breakfast on the bed made her feel spoiled.

    Well, it was his fault in the first ce that her knees still felt wobbly. She ate everything because she was hungry, but her stomach felt so heavy now.

    "Stop rolling before you do."

    She shifted her eyes at the door. There, Abel returned after taking the trolley out of the room for someone to get it.

    He sauntered towards the bed, sitting on the edge of the mattress. He smirked at Aries, who was paralyzed on the bed while holding her stomach.

    "I requested for medicines so your indigestion won''t worsen," he reassured, carefully copsing on the bed. He adjusted his position until he was lying on his side, facing her squarely.

    "We are so... tardy, darling." He snickered. "After eating, instead of moving around, here we are. We''ll inte like balloons in a week if we keep this up."

    "You don''t have to stay in here and you know the reason I''m stuck in here," she mumbled, clicking her tongue in annoyance. "Abel, you have to bathe meter."

    "My darling, do you enjoy bossing me around?"

    Aries bit her tongue and shook her head. "Of course not. I''m just saying I prefer you, but if you don''t want to, then I''ll ask someone else to help me bathe."

    "My... look at her." Abel snapped his tongue lightly before he chuckled. It was obvious she was enjoying his services, even if she verbally deny it. Well, not that he mind. He wouldn''t allow another person to touch Aries for now, since his possessive nature was reigning over him.

    He propped his temple against his knuckles, eyes still on her. "Of course I will bathe you, and then fuck you real quick so you won''t catch a cold."

    "Do you really have to say that aloud?" came out a helpless voice.

    "For you to know? Yes." He nodded with his lips closed. "Don''t worry. It''ll be quick."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, lowering her eyes. They had done itst night until dawn and there was nothing to be embarrassed about. Even so, she felt a little conflicted as he spoke about it as if he was simply reminding her to take her medicine.

    Thinking aboutst night, her face shed in red. She remained silent as she calmed her heart. When she recollected her thoughts, she raised her eyes only to furrow her brows.

    Abel wasn''t smirking evilly after teasing her, just as she expected. Instead, he seemed to be deep in his own thoughts.

    "Are you thinking of the current state of affairs?" she asked, knowing the emperor had more important things to do instead of lying down with her. Although Abel had always imed he could finish his work with his eyes closed, she couldn''t forget he was still an emperor and had bigger responsibilities.

    Abel quirked a brow and snapped his eyes, setting them back to her. "No. Darling, just in case you need to know, when I am with you, there''s nothing that can distract me but you."<sub> </sub>

    "Uhh... does that mean you are thinking about me when I''m right in front of you?" came out a quick follow-up.

    "Yes."

    "About?"

    "Adopting you as my sister." He answered with a straight face, making the side of her lips twitch. "I am thinking of adopting you as my sister. Unless you want to be my adoptive daughter, I do not mind, honestly."

    "Do you really want to marry me off?" she gasped as this topic had popped up more frequently now. Was it because he already had her? No, Aries erased that assumption the second it hovered over her head. Abel had mentioned this even beforest night.

    "I do." He blinked innocently, making Aries look at him with conflicting emotions in her eyes.

    Aries bit her lower lip as she took deep breaths to calm her raging heart. Seeing her reaction, Abel raised a brow before knitting them.

    "Right... I''m so used that you seem you can read my mind that I thought you already know." He giggled, leaning his face forward only for her to draw her head back. He frowned and looked at her with puppy eyes, but her eyes and countenance remained cold.

    "What sort of political deal you''re trying to close for you to consider adopting me as your sister to sell off?" she inquired, trying her best to understand his reasoning before getting angry. Aries reached her hand to his cor, eyes on him.

    "Can you tell me clearly so I can understand? I swear. Abel. You''re driving me crazy."

    Abel held the hand that was clipping his cor, a smug smirk reigning his face. He guided her hand to his lips, nting a kiss on the back of her hand, eyes on Aries.

    "It''s not politics, darling. It''s personal," he dawdled, leaning forward to whisper in her ears. "Maganti Empire."

    As soon as hisst remarks caressed her ears, Aries froze. All she could do was watch Abel draw his head back with an evil smirk, eyes glinting with contempt. Her heart was racing, thumping loudly against her ribcage.

    Did she hear him correctly? There was no way she was mistaken. He did say Maganti Empire. The ce that screwed her over that until now she was suffering mentally.

    "It''s a good time to screw someone over." Abel tucked her hair behind her ear gently, narrowing his eyes.

    "The Maganti Empire and Haimirich are in the talks about diplomatic rtions. And I was thinking of sending my sister through marriage and be the judge if they are worthy." The side of his lips stretched even broader and more wicked.

    "What do you think, darling? Shall I leave their fates on the palm of your hands?" he enticed, like a devil luring her tomit countless sins.

    p Sinsбн she would happily embrace.</anda>

    "Yes," Aries breathed out, staring at him straight in the eye. "Happily."

 Chapter 93 Its Scary How They Can Make One Powerful

    "I object!"

    Conan was gassing out as he mmed both his hands against the dining table where Aries and Abel were enjoying their breakfast in the Rose pce. It had been one week since Abel locked himself in this ce with Aries.

    Today, Abel summoned Conan, Isaiah, and Dexter to his safe haven. As much as he disliked their presence, he had to. Since this was about the empire''s diplomatic rtion with another empire бк the Maganti Empire бк he needed to brief them.

    That was also the main reason Conan harrumphed like a madman.

    "Your Majesty, how can you say you will adopt Lady Aries as your sister?!" Conan gasped in dismay, darting his eyes between Aries and Abel, who were sitting beside each other.

    Abel didn''t sit in the chair on the end of the table but chose to sit beside her. Across from Abel and Aries were Conan and Isaiah. Dexter was sitting two chairs away from Isaiah''s left.

    "That cannot be!"

    "Aww... why not?" Abel frowned, cocking his head to his right where Aries perched. "My darling sister, it seems to me we''ll get adopted by two separate families. Isn''t life cruel?"

    Aries blinked before raising her fork to feed him a piece of chicken. "I don''t me Sir Conan."

    "Tsk." Abel clicked his tongue as he chewed, frowning in his seat like a child gravitating whether to throw a tantrum or hold it in.

    "Your Majesty, even if you are thinking of sending Lady Aries as a political tool to seal this friendly rtion with the Maganti Empire, I am certain they were aware that you do not have direct kin," Isaiah argued rationally, not even surprised that Abel was nning to send Aries back. "In any case, they might see it as an act of disrespect and kill her the second her entourage enters their territory."

    If one thought about it, the Maganti Empire should be the one who was sending a princess for the Haimirich Empire to hold as a hostage. But well, Abel was the one who proposed the idea back at the world summit.

    In other words, between two empires, Abel made sure he was the underdog. The one who was currying favor.

    "Oh, no, that''s not fun." Abel shook his head, raising his brows, and gazed at Aries. "Darling, feed me."

    ''Gosh... doesn''t he have hands? Can''t he see I am eating as well?'' she grumbled internally, but still stabbed a carrot and smiled. "Say ah."

    "I don''t like carrots," came out a dead voice, but that only made her lips stretch wider.

    "Eat, darling."

    Abel frowned as Aries moved the fork until the carrot was touching his lips. "Let''s adopt Aries as my sister and let her die in the entrance of the Maganti Empire," he ordered before opening his mouth to eat the carrot cut in cubes.

    "Just because of carrots?" she giggled, biting the fork yfully. "I''ll feed you more vegetables, so it''ll be worth it then."

    "Really? Right in front of my face?" Conan, whose expression was nk, darted his eyes between Aries and Abel. This time, there was no doubt their rtionship develop significantly.

    "Your Majesty, shall we continue thister? Not only do I need to use my head, but I also have to force myself to ignore you two. It won''t be a problem if you''re not flirting right in front of me!"

    "Someone needs some loving, I see." The side of Abel''s lips hooked up evilly, stirring Conan''s emotions even more. "Conan, I wouldn''t invite you here if I am avableter. As you already know, my vacation hasn''t officially ended yet. I do not waste a second of my vacation time for things aside from Aries."<sub> </sub>

    "But this also concerns Lady Aries."

    "It does, but it''s about her departing the empire temporarily."

    Conan let out a defeated sigh, wobbling back to his chair. "I knew it when I received the summonst night. I was so happy to chat with Lady Aries, I didn''t prepare my brain for what wasing."

    "You are so dramatic, Conan." Abel shook his head before he frowned when a broli was hovering over his lips. "Darling."

    "I''m avenging Sir Conan." She smiled, casting Conan a knowing look. "You owe me."

    "Lady Ariesбн"

    As soon as Aries smiled at him. Conan''s eyes sparkled. He linked his hands as if praying, enjoying the frown on Abel''s face before he reluctantly ate his most hated vegetable. Abel wasn''t very fond of any vegetables.

    "How lucky. Darling, I am the better ally than Conan. Choose me." Abel fluttered his eyes at Aries, but thetter ignored him as she served herself a mouthful of meat.

    While Abel nagged Aries and thetter feeding him in between, Isaiah rubbed his chin lightly. He nced at Conan and then at the silent Dexter. The marquess arched a brow, side-eyeing Isaiah, upon sensing his gaze.

    "Your Majesty," called Isaiah, catching Abel and Aries'' attention. "Instead of adopting Lady Aries in the royal family, why not make it look like she''s Marquess Vandran''s sister?"

    There was a moment of silence as Abel raised his chin. Now that got his attention. Even Conan gazed at Isaiah momentarily before his eyes dted.

    Conan pounded the bottom of his fist against his palm. "Oh! In terms of status, Marquess Vandran has a very high standing since he is an ambitious bastard who wants to oppose His Majesty at every turn." He nodded in satisfaction.

    "Also, since the Marquess kept a private life, no one knew that his beloved sister was dead. If Lady Aries took her spot, she will be the noblest woman on the continent. We do not have an empress and His Majesty doesn''t have direct kin. Not to mention, Marquess Vandran is the leader of the aristocratic faction, so Lady Aries will have the imperialist and the aristocratic faction on her back."

    "Sir Conan, what a way to talk about the person whom you needed help with." Dexter pointed out, stuck in that ''ambitious bastard,'' and disregarded the rest of it.

    "But it''s true, though. You''re our enemy." Conan looked at Dexter in disdain, not even concealing it like usual.

    "Hmm." Abel leaned back as he rocked his head, setting his yful eyes on Dexter. "It seems I should start addressing you as my brother-inw now."

    "Your Majesty, as much as I like the idea, my sister is marrying someone outside the empire, apparently." Dexter kept his polite smile. "Isn''t that the n?"

    Despite the smile stered across their faces, the other three in the dining hall could hear the buzzing sound shing between the two.

    ''Abel and Marquess Vandran surely have a unique rtionship,'' Aries thought, keeping her silence as she simply nned to listen to this conversation. So far, things were just growing overwhelming with these men scheming over breakfast.

    ''They''re scary. I''m d I didn''t rub them the wrong way.''

 Chapter 94 No Mercy

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS DISTURBING CONTENT. READERS'' DISCRETION IS ADVISED.]</strong>

    While Abel, Conan, Dexter, and Isaiah talked about their ns for the Maganti Empire, Aries remained silent. Obviously, none of the three opposed Abel''s ns, since it was pointless to talk him out of it. Just like he imed, he took whatever they had done to Aries personally.

    Although Abel''s usual light tone had always been there, every single one of them in this dining hall was aware of one thing. He meant it and they wouldn''t like him getting angry that might push Abel to march to the said empire himself.

    And that... his determination to get even for Aries moved her. No one said sorry to her when the Kingdom of Rikhill had fallen from its grace. Nor there was anyone who expressed their disgust, anger, and hatred in her stead.

    Only Abel... only the devil and a tyrant like him.

    Aries lowered her eyes at the te in front of her. The longer she stared at it, the more she felt detached as her mind drifted to the past...

    <strong>*</strong>

    Staring at the te, unlike what she was currently having in the currentpse, the food on her te was just a mix of leftovers. Even pigs had better food than her, as the pungent smell of the food in front of her permeated across this small room where she was currently being locked.

    This was one of those days where she was being ''disciplined.'' Locked in a small room where there was only one small gap where light could prate. Her lifeless eyes had already adjusted to the dimness. Hence, she could see clearly even with that tiny source of light.

    The side of her lips curled up as she grabbed the pig''s slop and shoved it inside her mouth. Sheughed while stuffing her mouth with nothing but dirt; not caring if there was added piss or feces in it бк if there was even added in it.

    Aries gobbled it up to keep herself alive. ''Discipline?'' she mocked internally, forcing herself to swallow it even when the food made her stomach turn. She held it in, eyes burning with hatred.

    Like a madwoman, hungrier than a peasant, Aries ate everything until she couldn''t anymore. Her eyes, full of utter hatred, shifted to the ss.

    The water in it was barely enough to keep her from dehydrating. Even so, she didn''tin and chugged it down till thest drop.

    She wiped her mouth with her arm, scoffing in ridicule. "Did he think feeding me with this is enough for me to submit?" sheughed maniacally, running her dirty fingers through her hair.

    "Over my dead body."

    Since the crown prince, who so adored her to the point he ruined her home, deeply wanted to tame her, Aries''s determination to retaliate just kept on growing. When he realized forcing himself to her every single night was not enough, he dragged her into this ce to kill her spirit.

    It didn''t matter to him if she just be an empty shell. All he needed was a lovely doll he could adore.

    However, Aries... lived for those who died fighting alongside her. She wasn''t surviving and thriving all for herself. She was living, carrying her entire fallen nation on her back.

    This wouldn''t kill her. This manure facade as the food didn''t even graze her spirit.

    Instead, it set her determination for vengeance ame. She didn''t know how or when, but Aries promised she wouldn''t die without dragging down that detestable man and this wretched kingdom with her.

    Although she was on the brink of insanity. Thanks to her raging heart, she was simply toeing on the line.

    <strong>CREAK...</strong>

    Just then, the door creaked open. The torches from the outside forced her to shut her one eye. Three shadows from three men by the door stretched towards her. Even without physical contact, she already felt disgusted with their shadows reaching her.<sub> </sub>

    Aries raised her head, eyesnding on the three men by the door. The man in the middle was someone she already knew, tilting her head to the side without saying a word.

    The man''s lips curled up. "Did you snap already?" came out a deep voice, whilst studying the unblinking pair of emeralds staring directly at him.

    "I brought some friends with me." The man held his hand behind him, helping himself inside despite the pungent scent dominating the small room. He squatted in front of her, fluttering his long curledshes while staring at her.

    "What a lively sight to behold, Princess," he remarked as his wicked smirk remained. He raised his hand to touch her, but her sharp eyes glinted.

    "I am thirsty," came out an unapologetic voice. "So thirsty I might bite you and drink your blood. Careful."

    "Hah!" the man, the crown prince of the Maganti Empire,ughed in delight. "You''re so hard to break. That is why my friends are so interested in meeting you."

    He snapped his fingers to the side, causing the two men by the door to enter this small room. Aries nced at them calmly before two men stood on her side, lifting her by her shoulders.

    "They want to get to know you, Princess." He pinched her chin while she was being lifted by two grown men like a doll. "I didn''t want to, but then, I was thinking of your well-being. I thought you might be lonely that you do not have friends here, so I invited them over. Do you mind?"

    Aries stared at his pair of wicked eyes squarely. "Do I mind?" she whispered, knowing what this man had already nned to do. He wanted her to beg him to save her; to make her crawl to his feet and submit to him.

    "Hahбн" sheughed mockingly, cocking her head to the man holding her right shoulder. "Please be gentle, Sir. I just had a meal and we don''t want me vomiting all over you, do we?" her voice was seductive, a tone she never used to the man standing before her.

    She carefully peeled her eyes from the man to the crown prince. His expression was grim and expressionless, making her smirk happily.

    "Your Highness, if I get to choose to get fucked by a town of men or you alone, it''s definitely the former," she teased dauntingly, enjoying how she hurt his inted ego. "Nowбн that is a sight to behold."

    "Break a few of her bones, but don''t kill her," he ordered and with that, Aries was stripped naked to receive two men at once while he watched her disgrace her.

    "Just what will it take you to submitбн Aries?"

    ***

    "Aries."

    Aries flinched as she snapped back to reality with Abel''s voice. She raised her brows, watching Abel''s hand massage her hand that had turned white, gripping the cutlery.

    "Uh, sorry for zoning out," she muttered, ncing at him only to see Abel smile, which didn''t reach his eye.

    "It''s alright, darling."

    Abel removed the cutlery from her grip, slipping his fingers to hold her hand. His other hand caressed her cheek affectionately before peeling his eyes away from her.

    When he set his eyes back to Conan and Isaiah across the table, they glinted dangerously.

    "No mercy," he said in a quiet voice but made it clearly heard. "The Maganti Empireбн must fall."

 Chapter 95 What Did He See In Her That She Couldnt?

    Aries had never seen Abel''s eyes burn in anger. She simply zoned out because the discussion made her recall the tragic past, but Abel suddenly got angry. She didn''t dwell on it, though.

    "The Maganti Empire... must fall."

    She nced at his hand that was holding her. His grip was calm as his thumb was brushing the back of her hand. Very different from his chilling tone and burning eyes.

    She moved her gaze to the rest of them in the dining hall. Even Conan was unsmiling and bore a solemn look.

    "They annoy the hell out of me. Therefore, send them back to hell."

    "Then we will hasten," Isaiah answered, bowing slightly. Dexter and Conan also did the same, knowing Abel''s orders were absolute.

    After Abel gave his orders, it didn''t take long when the three excused themselves. In the end, they decided for Aries to act as Dexter''s sister, to which she agreed with a simple nod. All they needed was her agreement, but well, she already agreed to be Abel''s sister бк if not for Conan''s opposition.

    When the three left, Aries and Abel decided to take a walk after their meal. In the beautiful garden of the Rose Pce, Abel held her hand as they walked down the gravel path. He nced at her, seeing her hang her head low while keeping her silence.

    "I''m here, darling." He squeezed her hand to get her attention, treading carefully. "Don''t go anywhere."

    Aries raised her head and let out a shallow breath. "I''m not going anywhere."

    "Physically, you''re not. But your mind is somewhere else. I don''t like it when you''re this silent."

    "Sorry. I just had a lot of things in mind." She stopped when he tugged her hand, facing her squarely with his other hand shoved inside his pocket.

    "A lot of things in mind... I''m not included in it." He blinked almost cluelessly and unreasonably. "Just think of me, darling. Don''t think of other people with me. Just me."

    p Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she gazed directly into his eyes. At this point, she was getting used to his unreasonable requests and whims.</anda>

    "Abel," came out a soft voice, gazing at his hand that was holding hers. "What do you like about me?" she inquired out of nowhere.

    "Mhm..." he arched a brow, not expecting such a question toe up. "Do I need a reason?"

    Her eyes glinted with bitterness as she took a deep breath. "I have a confession to make," she breathed out, sping his hand tightly until they trembled.

    "You''re not my first. I mean... you''re not the first who imed this body."

    "Darling, I know that." He tilted his head to the side, batting his eyes innocently. "And I don''t care."

    "You''re not the second too," she continued, and her breathing was starting to suspend, lips quivering. "Not the third or fourth or fifth, too. This body... I already lost count of how many, Abel... I..."<sub> </sub>

    Aries trailed off when he put a finger on her lips.

    "Your point?" he asked with genuine wonder in his voice, putting down his finger from her lips. "Darling, I do not understand why you''re suddenly bringing this up."

    There was a moment of silence between them; a deafening one. Her eyes fixed holding on to his crimson ones, mustering her courage to speak.

    "Am I... still worthy?" came out a quiet voice that shattered the stifling silence. "My body feels numb, Abel. Even I... am disgusted every time I see my body. No matter how much I scrub it, no matter how I scratch it, dig my nails into my flesh... my body remembers all of their touches."

    "Was your anger to them... worthy? Why? For me? Why... Abel?" she continued, unable to continue her ''whys'' for there was a long list that followed that word, why? "I want... no, I need to know what is there in me you saw, that I couldn''t?"

    Abel let out a shallow breath as he studied her expression. Her eyes sweltered with mixed emotions of anger and confusion. He raised his hand, reaching for the side of her eyes with his thumb while brushing it lightly.

    "Darling, how many are they? Ten? Hundred? A thousand?" His voice was dark and low, lowering his head to see her eye to eye. "The lives and bodies these hands that are touching you right now had taken ten times those numbers. Between us, I am ten times more sullied than you. The only reason I care is that you care."

    He took a momentary pause as he straightened his back. "Do you think I feel sorry? No, never. They deserved it. I didn''t even lose a wink of sleep. I am the worst, and I''m proud of it." He stressed, showing the difference between being a victim and the assant, who was once a victim of this mad, cruel world.

    "Do I think you''re worthy?" Abel carefully guided her with him, marching towards the flower bed full of fresh red roses. "Well, darling, listen here."

    He reached for a rose, wrapping his hands around its thorny stem. Blood instantly oozed under his grip. Unfazed, he held the rose in between them. The hand that was holding her hand guided it towards his bleeding fist.

    "This rose, this beautiful rose, is full of thorns, darling," he dawdled, opening his bleeding fist and slipping his fingers in between the gap of hers.

    Hands intertwined, the thorny rose in between them. She didn''t even flinch when a thorn sank through her palm, their blood colliding.

    "But I do not mind embracing it. A little blood will not stop me from getting my hands on it." His eyes glinted, staring at her straight in the eye. "And it''s my fault that I wasn''t careful and got pricked by it. Even so, at the end of the day, the rose was beautiful, and the pain was worth it."

    "Let''s go back to your question; what did I see in you?" the side of his lips curled up, tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear. "Your thorns, your petals, your roots. I saw you... and if that doesn''t satisfy you, just look into my eyes and you''ll see Aries."

    He cocked his head, face a palm length away from hers. "What about you? What did you see in me that made you stay?"

    Her eyes softened as she raised her hand, cupping his jaw gently. A subtle smile dominated her face, standing on her toes to im his lips. As she did, she whispered into his mouth.

    "Me." бк the reflection of herself mirroring in his eyes.

    He smiled against her lips, pulling her waist closer with the rose still in between their tangled hands. "Thought so."

 Chapter 96 Im A Swan

    Maybe, Aries thought, just maybe, because Abel was impure that she embraced him quite easily. Or maybe it was the opposite. Perhaps it was because she was impure and sullied that Abel embraced her with open arms without feeling guilty.

    Either way, it didn''t matter anymore. Whether they burn with the eternal mes or find salvation, they both never sought. What mattered was they were together.

    Under the tree situated deep in the Rose Pce garden near theke, Aries raised her head from his bandaged chest. He was leaning his back against the trunk, confining her in between his legs, hands around her waist. He stroked her spine under his inner white shirt, now draped over her body.

    After their conversation earlier, a simple kiss was followed by an intense round of passion. They didn''t head back to the castle, but instead, he carried her to one of the closest spots.

    Under the tree, without a care in the world, they made love.

    "Abel, what is your rtionship with Marquess Vandran?" she inquired after her heart recovered from their intense activity. "If he is the leader of the aristocratic faction, why is he so close to you and Sir Conan?"

    "Close to us?" Abel arched a brow and chuckled with his lips closed. He pinched her chin, smacking his lips yfully. "I don''t think so."

    "What do you mean, you don''t think so?"

    "Well, Marquess Vandran, Dexter, despised me for many, many reasons. I don''t think he will appreciate the thought of him having a friendly rtionship with me. Conan, too. My adorable Conan dislikes him since he usually works overtime every time Dexter ys too much."

    Aries blinked innocently, tilting her head to the side. "It still sounds to me that you are friends. Why, though? I mean, if you know he despises you, why keep him close? And why would he stay around? I understand that you summoned Sir Conan and Lord Darkmore. But you also invited the marquess. I am confused."

    "Because I know Conan and Isaiah will surely oppose the idea of adopting you as my sister?"

    "So, you already knew they would need an alternative?"

    Abel rocked his head, touching her face gently. "Darling, have you heard the saying, keep your friends close and your enemy closer? Dexter and I weren''t friends, and we will never be friends. I don''t have friends. However, who needs friends if you have a lot of enemies? They are almost the same." He pressed his lips, and its corners hooked up.

    "The only difference is that friends can betray you. Your enemies don''t. Those you trust will stab you in the back; when you are not looking. But your enemies will stab you while you are looking, and they will make sure you know they are there for a kill."

    "Are we not friends?" she frowned, lowering her head until her chin was resting over her hand that was on his firm chest.

    "Oh. Ariel is my friend and my best buddy, but Aries is..." he trailed off as her brows rose, anticipation flickering across her eyes. The side of his lips stretched, biting his tongue to stop himself from answering.

    "But Aries is, what?" she urged.

    "It''s a secret." He snickered, watching her expression die.

    "I''ll strangle you," she warned with a dead voice, but he simplyughed out loud. "Really. Don''t kill me with curiosity."

    "Well, why don''t you try to make me continue?" he teased.

    Aries frowned before moving up, tilting her head to what seemed an act to im his lips. However, just before her lips could touch him, she stopped and clicked her tongue aloud.<sub> </sub>

    "Never mind." She smirked, drawing her head back before sitting upright.

    Sitting on the back of her leg, sandwiched in between his legs, her beautiful emeralds dangled down to cover her bosom. His white inner shirt was draped over her shoulder, covering the rest of her und body.

    She gazed at his unbelievably handsome face, lowering her eyes to his bandaged torso. The tattoos covering his body peeked from the bandages. Abel was sitting down while leaning against the trunk, knee bent up where his arm was resting.

    They weren''t wearing anything as they used the skirt of her dress as a quilt underneath them. And yet, there was no shame in wearing nothing. The thought of having someoneing in here didn''t even cross them. Be it before, during, and after sex.

    "I changed my mind. It doesn''t matter anymore." She eximed as she clipped the button cket in front of her, shing him a yful smile. "That only means I won''t have to say what is Abel to me."

    "Hah... darling, I''ll tell you now..." Abel trailed off and his hands that were reaching her stopped when she sprung up to her feet. He looked at up her, only to see her evil smirk.

    "Well, why don''t you make me want to listen, Your Majesty?" she teased, taking continuous steps back, leaving him under the tree without covers.

    "Darling."

    "I''ll take a bath. Bye~"

    "Aries!"

    All he heard was her giggles as she ran away, taking his dress shirt with her. Abel, who was left naked under the tree, sighed. He was confident enough to walk around in the inner pce naked, but Aries made him feel like covering at least his lower half.

    He quirked a brow, eyes falling on the dress underneath him. The side of his lips slowly stretched wickedly as he nced at her back.

    "Exchange of clothes, I see. Heh... I want to tease Conanter," he snickered, standing from his spot, and picking up the dress. Since her body frame was small, Abel simply ripped the bodice and kept the skirt and petticoat in which he tied around his waist.

    "Darling, look at me! I''m a swan!" he yelled in delight, catching Aries'' attention as she looked back. His lips stretched even broader upon seeing her scrunch her nose up.

    "Don''t make me catch up on you. We''ll be bathing in my chosen ce! Theke!"

    "Oh, god..." Aries panicked as she jumped from her standpoint to run away from him. "I can''t unsee that anymore."

    ******

    Meanwhile, in the inner pce...

    "Igh..." Conan rubbed his shoulders as a sudden chill ran down his spine. "Why do I feel so restless?" he muttered, staring at the mountain of documents on his desk that the neglectful emperor should be working on.

    "It''s probably nothing." He patted his chest and shook his head, tossing whatever bad gut feeling that suddenly crept up his spine.

 Chapter 97 Wise Men Says...

    "Kyah!"

    Aries let out a squeal as soon as Abel held her by the waist from behind, spinning her around. His arms instantly secured her in his embrace, lifting her up so she wouldn''t run away again.

    "Caught you." A smug smirk turned up on his bewitching face, wiggling his brows. He bent over to kiss her briefly, fingertips crawling up her spine while she wrapped her arms around his neck.

    "I can''t unsee this." She giggled into his mouth, referring to the skirt tied around his waist. "You should''ve run around naked."

    "Oh, no. That would be boring." Heughed with his lips closed, biting her lips teasingly. "I like it when people are bothered."

    "I am not!" Aries drew her head back to see his face better and stuck her tongue out. "Definitely not bothered."

    Abel poked the tip of her nose, grinning from ear to ear. It was quite a chase because Aries definitely ran as far away but not as fast as she could. She was a tease, but he loved every curve and angle of her.

    Good riddance...

    She would drive him mad. What she was doing and the emotions she was making him feel were forcing him to dance to her tune. He was already trapped in the palms of her hand, and he could only hope she wouldn''t crush him.

    "Hmm?" her brows rose at his sudden silence whilst staring at her. "Is there something wrong?"

    "No." He raised his hand from her waist to cup her jaw. "I just thought you''re gorgeous."

    "Don''t say that when you''re wearing a skirt."

    "But you are, darling. Although sad to say..." his eyes slowly squinted into mere slits when he smiled. "... not as gorgeous as yours truly."

    Her expression died, scrunching her nose up in dismay. Still, she couldn''t argue with that. Abel... personality aside, he was like a man who came out straight from a painting.

    His eyes, nose, lips, hair, body, and everything just screamed perfection. It was like when God thought of perfection he created him.

    He probably forgot to add good and moral traits. But overall, Abel wasn''t that bad. Not because he was giving her an opportunity for revenge, but because Abel had a pitch-ck soul with which he could understand her heart.

    "Well, you are quite gorgeous." The side of her lips curled up yfully, swaying in the soundless melody in the air. "I won''t argue. You are more beautiful than I am, and that''s a fact."

    "Are you trying to inte my ego now?"

    "I am stating a fact, you!" Her brows knitted as he pouted, pointing at his chest. "So, we''ll bathe in theke? Hmm?"

    Abel pulled her waist, closing the tiny gap between them. "Hmm... I''m considering changing my mind."

    "And why is that?"

    "I was thinking of teasing Conan by showing I''m in a skirt. I can imagine him gassing out after yelling his heart out." He grinned evilly, thinking of making Conan, who was busy thinning out the mountain of paperwork Abel left, shiver. "I''m certain rumors will spread so fast even Isaiah can''t stop it. I can imagine what sort of title they would think of; the Emperor... had finally gone out of his closet. Every man in this empire will either avoid me at all costs or seduce me. It''ll be fun, don''t you think?"

    Aries was rendered speechless at his detailed n and the oue. She knew Abel, and he would definitely do that for fun.

    "Abel, what bothers you?" she inquired with a deep sigh, watching how his brows raise ever so slowly. "Death threats don''t bother you, assassins and poisons don''t. What can bother you?"

    Abel blinked countless times as he sincerely mulled over her questions. He looked at her, quirking a brow. What bothered him in this world? No one has asked him this before; the answer was already obvious.

    Nothing.<sub> </sub>

    He found the assassination attempts cute, so he was letting them. Rumors? It would usually give him a goodugh. Hatred and condemnation? It was fun to listen to people''s lies whilst knowing the truth.

    So what bothered him?

    Abel gazed at her for a very long time. When his lips parted, Aries tilted her head with furrowed brows.

    "What?" she asked, thinking she didn''t hear him correctly the first time.

    "Spiders," he repeated. "I hate spiders."

    "That''s ... what bothers you?" he nodded to her follow-up question.

    "I hate them passionately. Frogs too."

    Her eyes widened as she looked at him in disbelief. "If your enemies sent an army of spiders, would you lose?"

    "I will definitely flee. They''ll win, for sure."

    "You''re joking, right?" she smiled awkwardly, searching for any trace of non-serious emotions in his eyes. She couldn''t find it; he was dead serious. And that was even scarier.

    "Did I... just uncover how to make you surrender?" she gasped in horror. "Oh, my god... what will you do if you enter a haunted ce full of cobwebs?"

    "Darling, why in the world would I enter a haunted ce? Only those who have a bad taste of how they will die enter those ces. I''m not stupid. I don''t like a ghost riding on my shoulders wherever I go." Heughed, tilting his head while squeezing her waist with his arm. "You can sell that information and make a fortune. I can leech on your riches, then."

    Aries pped his chest lightly with a frown. "What if the spiders try to eat me?"

    "Well, you''re on your own, darling!" he intoned. "You get eaten or you fight. Don''t drag me into it."

    "Aww.." her frown grew worse as that was a quick reply. How did she expect him to conquer his fears for her? There was always a limit to where a person would go for another. And the spider was his limit... frogs, too.

    Seeing her sulk, the corner of his lips curled up in amusement. Did she forget he could burn an entire empire for her? If only she asked for it? He would even give Haimirich to her and happily step down.

    Ariesбн could be silly.

    "I''m jesting." He grinned, bending over until the apex of his nose was brushing against hers. "I won''t let anyone eat you other than me, obviously. So silly."

    ? Aries clicked her tongue as she red at him. But she was easily coaxed when he gave her quick pecks.

    "You make my heart flutter," she murmured, pouting as she averted her eyes. "I don''t like it."

    His grin stretched even broader. "Aries, I can order my people to march to the Maganti Empire simply because they''re an eyesore. However, a quick death is not fun." He leaned forward to whisper in her ear.

    "They don''t deserve the quick release, darling. We''ll return the pain they had inflicted on you a hundredfold." He secured her in his arms, leaning the side of his head against her. "Anything lessбн will bother me."

    Aries''s eyes softened as she settled her hands on his back. In the middle of the garden, they stood motionless in each other''s embrace.

    "Mhm," she hummed softly, closing her eyes in relief. Not the kind of relief for the impending doom of those people who dragged her into the depths of hell, but because, for once, she made the right choice.

    That wasбн choosing a better nightmare and hell.

 Chapter 98 Lucky Charm

    Ever since Aries embraced Abel that night, she was supposed to leave the Haimirich Empire. Her sleep was growing more peaceful. Maybe it was because Abel''s energy in bed was phenomenal, or it could also be because her heart knew she was safe with him.

    Either way, after ying too much with him in theke, Aries could not help but have an afternoon nap as soon as they returned to the castle. She couldn''t even dry her hair as she simply copsed on the bed, lying on her tummy while Abel stroked her damp hair.

    "How cute," he whispered, drying her hair with a small cloth. "Darling, you''ll have a headache if you sleep with your hair still wet. At least change your clothes instead of sleeping in your robe." бк although he preferred her sleeping with no covers at all.

    Her deep exhale was the only answer he received. He still smiled, content with the life he had been living the past week. It was almost like a dream. One week of doing nothing but being in herpany, ying with her, having passionate nights with her, talking about anything random with her, dining with her, and just everything they could do together.

    If he would choose between being the emperor or just her lover, he would happily announce his retirement. But obviously, the honeymoon stage was only fun while itsted.

    Abel was still angry. It was almost amazing how he could feel so content around her whilst keeping this building fury within him. Earlier today, while Aries was zoning out, he had seen it as well.

    The unwanted memories.

    He didn''t mean to, but because he was too concerned with her, he identally took a peek. And now, it wouldn''t leave his head. The image of her and how she gritted her teeth, how her eyes burned, how she thought of killing herself to end it, and how she squashed that idea because of the utter hatred welling up in her chest.

    He believed it was karma. His karma. That all the atrocities and sins he hadmitted returned to the only woman he cared for and cherished. But he wasn''t the person who would wallow in it, especially if there was a resolution.

    ? The people in the Maganti Empire, that man... were still alive. And they could still settle scores. Well, even if he was dead, Abel would revive him just to kill him.

    "My poor Aries." His eyes drooped until they were partially closed, staring at her unguarded back. He reached his hand to her back, tracing her spine, causing her robe to crease.

    "You are such a beautiful tragedy."

    A shallow sigh slipped past his lips, peeling his eyes away from her to the window. He smacked his lips, flinging his legs out of the bed to the desk inside the room. Taking a piece of paper and pen, he wrote a quick letter, before walking towards the balcony.

    Abel whistled, and in no time, a ravennded on the railing. "Take this to Conan. And after delivering this letter, fly to the Maganti Empire. I would like to know the current state of affairs in thatnd from the people I nted on the ground."

    As soon as he finished tying the letter on the raven''s feet, he waved. The raven fluttered its wings wide open, flying away and letting a few ck feathers fall. He watched his raven head to the emperor''s castle, hands on the railings.

    "I am expecting great news..." he took a faint inhale and exhaled calmly. "... after all, I need to choose a groom who will suit my Aries. I am wondering if the crown prince is already betrothed?"

    He disliked the fact he needed to marry Aries off. But then again, they all needed to go with the flow. After all, Abel had already set his eyes on the Maganti Empire the same night Aries came into his life.

    It was not because he was thinking of revenge for her or anything of the sort; he was no knight in shining armor, nor was it love at first sight. It was no fairytale nor magical.

    The reason was simply that his pet could break anytime. So he was just thinking of people to me if she ever died without satisfying his needs.<sub> </sub>

    But s... things changed. Neither won the game; it was a draw. Nevertheless, it was still good that he affiliated himself with the Maganti Empire and ced some of his people in the territory.

    "We''ll be ying another game, Aries." The side of his lips curled up and a sinister glint flickered across his pair of sharp rubies. "Return the pain a hundredfold. If you don''t... I''ll show you how I do it."

    There was no shadow of a doubt. Abel would always be Abel; cruel, maniptive, and pure evil. The chilling smirk on his face was enough to prove he was looking forward to a catastrophe that would befall someone.

    *****

    "Mhm..."

    Aries moaned as she moved slightly, opening her eyes from a deep nap. Blinking ever so slowly, her brows furrowed, seeing Abel sitting at her side, holding a brush steadily.

    "Abel?" she called in a sleepy voice.

    "Don''t move, darling." Only when Abel snapped his eyes, and she felt the tip of the brush touch the side of her navel, did she realize she was bare from the waist up. She shuddered but kept still on instinct.

    "What are you doing?" she gasped, staring at his solemn rear. Abel had his focus on stroking a paintbrush across her body.

    "Painting," came out azy voice. "Have you heard of the term "witch", darling?"

    "Huh?"

    "In the past, if one was branded as a witch, people would either stone them to death or burn them at the stake. Regardless if they were or not, there was no mercy." His voice was low, covering every slight scar with a beautiful carving. "Do you know why? Because they believed witches possessed dark powers granted by the devil. Same with all the creatures of the night called vampires. Regardless if they meant to harm or just simply wanted to be friends, they were never epted."

    Her body gradually rxed as she got used to the gentle strokes being done to her body. "Abel, what are you saying? Why are you suddenly spewing myths?"

    "Myths... heh." Abel cast her a side-eye briefly before he resumed what he was doing. "My point here is, I am currently drawing a magic circle on your body, darling. You could simply call it a lucky charm, or be romantic and believe I want to cover your scars with my work."

    "Either way, both are true. Also, you''re lovely." He held the brush up, gazing at the ck swirls and ancient writings inked elegantly on her skin with satisfaction after setting aside the brush. "Don''t move yet. You need to stay still until it dries on your skin."

    "How can I?" she frowned, toes curling. "If your hand is creeping up my thigh."

    "Not my problem, darling. We''re going back to the real world tomorrow. I need to make the best out of it." He smirked, crawling under her.

 Chapter 99 Ask Me Tomorrow

    "I didn''t think you will like it that much."

    Aries raised her head with a smile cemented on her face since this morning. She pressed her lips, trying to suppress her smile from stretching wider.

    "I didn''t think I will like it as well," she confessed, gazing down at her hand and caressing the back of it that had Abel''s markings on it. "It''s beautiful... very beautiful."

    Her eyes softened upon recalling the sight of her entire body in front of the mirror. Earlier today, after they bathed together and before they arrived in this dining hall they were in, Abel let her stand in front of the mirror to look at her body.

    Staring at it brought this inexplicable feeling to her heart. He covered all the small and big scars across her body, hindering her from seeing the terrible scars which constantly reminded her of what she went through.

    Although she was aware, the scars were still there, not being able to see them helped.

    Abel''s eyes softened at the sight of her. "Come here, darling." He patted hisp, watching her raise her brows as she set her eyes back to him. "We have an hour before everyone returns to the Rose Pce, and several minutes before those three join us for breakfast."

    "Sir Conan will surely throw a huge fit once again." Aries giggled, but still stood from her seat to sit on Abel''sp. He was just sitting beside her, so it was a quick journey as she plopped her butt down on hisp, legs on his rear.

    "Abel, look at my hand." She showed the back of her hand, already used to how his arm wrapped around her waist. "So pretty, right? I feel like I just came out straight from the painting. I didn''t know you have such talent."

    Aries snapped her eyes and opened her mouth when a piece of vegetable hovered over her lips. While she chewed, she faced Abel squarely.

    "I came from a family of artists, darling. So, I know a thing or two." Abel smiled, brushing her cheek with his thumb.

    "Really?" Aries narrowed her eyes at him but didn''t dwell on it. Abel kept feeding her while she showed off the inks on her hand and arms which Abel drew himselfst night.

    When another vegetable was parked in front of her lips, Aries finally noticed something. She furrowed her brows, ring daggers at him.

    "Abel." She blinked twice before scrunching her nose up in dismay. "You think I won''t notice you''re making me eat the vegetables I told you to finish?"

    "What? No...!" he denied shamelessly; even though he was already caught.

    "Lies." Aries clicked her tongue, pointing at him. "Eat it."

    "Eat, what? You?"

    "This one. Later, me."

    The side of his lips curled up as he rocked his head. "My, my... if that is the reward, then sure." Abel shoved the piece of vegetable inside his mouth and grinned.

    Aries pressed her lips and watched him chew. As she did so, her eyes caught the writings on the back of his ear that reached down the side of his neck. Her lips curled up.

    Abel was a tatted man, but that one behind his ear was a new one. It wasn''t permanent like the rest inked on his body, but this one was her favorite. Why? Becausest night, Aries also marked him.

    "Aries," she read, making him cocked his head back, eyes on her. "My name inked behind your ear, it looks good. It''s my favorite."<sub> </sub>

    "I would''ve let you write it on my chest, but then, no one will see it." He leaned his face forward, shing a smile that made him appear he was winning in life. "You know what made it better?" he inquired.

    "What?"

    "It''s written in thenguage of Rikhill. No one will ever read it aside from you and no one will know what it means but me," he answered in a knowing tone, shrugging nonchntly. "It feels like we''re sharing a little secret only the two of us know."

    "No one will know what it means..." she mumbled as his face leaned closer, brushing the tip of his nose against hers. "What does Aries mean to you?"

    "Ask me tomorrow." The corner of his lips stretched even wider.

    She pouted, lowering her shoulder. "I bet you will answer the same if I asked tomorrow."

    "Obviously." His grin widened until his teeth were showing, drawing his head back to look at her. "I will keep saying ask me tomorrow every time."

    "Why? Don''t you know the answer?"

    Abel chuckled with his closed lips, tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear. His eyes scanned her face thoroughly, engraving her beauty deep in his head.

    "It''s not a matter of answer, but the question, darling. If I answer it, I won''t hear you ask. Keep asking me every day and keep reminding me what you are to me." His voice was teasing and seductive, pinching her chin to look at her in the eye.

    "Goodness..." she breathed out, biting her inner lip while staring at him. "Stop rendering me speechless. I don''t know how to answer that."

    Now, she also didn''t want to hear the answer, but she would still ask anyway. Every day with him felt like she was falling deeper into his world. epting and indulging with him without pretense or the thought of treading on thin ice was an entirely different world.

    She was happy, very happy.

    It was almost unbelievable that she could still be this happy after everything that had happened. If this was a dream... she wanted to sleep forever.

    "Abel, how many more minutes do we have?" she inquired, wrapping her arms over his shoulder.

    He tilted his head back as she bent her head down to receive her lips. "Not long enough to..."

    "Your Majesty, it is I, Isaiah, with Sir Conan and Marquess Dexter."

    Suddenly, a knock from outside the door reached their ears, making her frown. However, before she can draw her hand back, Abel ced his palm on the back of her head.

    "Five minutes. I''ll let them in in five minutes," he whispered, eyes glinting. "Until then, kiss me until I do not have enough energy to tease Conan."

    "Do you have a crush on Sir Conan?" she bit her lips before pressing them against his. "Five minutes then."

 Chapter 100 The Creation Of The Beautiful Monster

    Abel cupped his jaw, elbow on the armrest of his chair. Meanwhile, Aries cleared her throat, tucking her hair behind her ear while Abel''s people took their seats around the dining table.

    Apparently, their five minutes extended to fifty. Isaiah and Dexter didn''t mind the wait, as they kept their poker face. But the whimsical Conan was looking at them with a pair of judgemental eyes.

    Aries reached for a ss of water to cool her body down. She was sweating, and her knees were still trembling.

    "Conan, are you perhaps curious what my darling and I did in here?" Abel broke the silence, and Aries nearly choked on the water she was drinking. "I can borate."

    "Your Majesty, your schedule has been pushed back!" Conan harrumphed with a deep frown. "Everyone was expecting to see you during the court meeting, but I had to send everyone away."

    "It''s good that you sent them away. We''re quite busy with a more important matter, as you can see."

    Isaiah cleared his throat before Conan could berate the emperor. "Your Majesty, we have prepared the legal papers for Lady Aries to debut as Lady Dani Circe Vandran." He cast Dexter a look and thetter simply shrugged. "However, the Marquess had one condition before signing them."

    "No," Abel answered, even before he could hear Dexter''s condition. "If the condition is for Aries to live at the Marquess'' estate, then the answer is an absolute no."

    Dexter didn''t have much of a change in expression, as he had expected his refusal. Isaiah and Conan already warned him about Abel''s obvious answer, but he stood his ground.

    "Your Majesty, if you are borrowing the name of my sister and our family, letting her live at our residence is nothing," he exined in a matter-of-fact tone. "If she will carry the name of our family, it is better for her to familiarize herself with our family affairs and the stronghold. After all, she will be returning to a ce that knows her face. Suspicion will arise and if she can''t prove she is Dani, then Lady Aries will be in danger. Moreover, it is better to introduce her to the aristocratic faction and gain acquaintances beforehand."

    "The answer is still no." Abel cocked his head to the side,zy eyes on Dexter. "Aries will stay at the Rose Pce. I can''t let you seduce her. Na ah."

    "Your Majesty, why don''t we ask Lady Aries since this is about her, anyway?" Dexter tilted his head to the side, batting his eyes with confidence.

    Abel pressed his lips as its corner curved down. The four of them slowly set their focus on Aries sitting beside the emperor. Thetter raised her brows, darting her eyes across their faces.

    "What do you think, darling? Do you want to move out?" he inquired almost innocently. "Just so you know, I will kill everyone youy your eyes on and everyone you interact with outside the imperial pce."

    "That''s cheating!" Conan gasped, mming his palm and pointing at the shameless emperor. "Your Majesty, as much as I hate the Marquess, he has a point! Lady Aries will only be a Vandran if she experiences being one!"

    "Shut up, Conan." Abel clicked his tongue, frowning when Isaiah rocked his head in agreement. "Darling, look at them, trying to take you away from me. So heartless!"

    "Your Majesty, aren''t you sending me to another country yourself?" Aries reminded him while staring at Abel with conflict in her eyes. Was he crazy and forgot this entire idea was his in the first ce? Well, that wasn''t actually an important question, since the answer was obvious.

    She smacked her lips, sprawling her arms to hold his hand. "I think Marquess Vandran has a point. If I stay in the Rose Pce before I depart, it''ll be hard on me too, since I''m getting used to being just around you," Aries argued honestly and shrugged.

    "I mean, I can always stay here for a couple of days and then at the marquess'' residence. Marquess Vandran is already doing us a huge favor and I need to live up to the family name if I am going to carry it. His family name and reputation are also on the line." Aries set her eyes back to Dexter and sported a weak smile. "The people in the Maganti Empire aren''t easily fooled."

    Although she didn''t like the entire idea and simply wanted to stay close to Abel, she also needed to consider the people involved. Moreover, the crown prince of the Maganti Empire wasn''t just a ruthless and disgusting specimen. But he was also remarkable and smart. He would definitely try to figure out Aries real identity if she showed up as Dani Circe Vandran.

    "I agree with Lady Aries. The Maganti Empire wouldn''t have persisted this long with all the enemies they have gathered through the years if they were that easy." Isaiah nodded, backing up Aries''s ims.<sub> </sub>

    "We can just schedule her to visit the imperial pce. If she fooled every person in the empire as Lady Dani, then that also means she can fool those barbaric people in that damned empire." Conan chimed in as he snapped his fingers. "It''s not like the marquess'' estate is far from here. Also, we will have a reason to nt spies in the marquess'' residence just in case he is nning something silly!"

    "I''m very sure that should be a secret," Isaiahmented before raising a cup of tea to his lips.

    After Isaiah''s remark, Aries and the other three refocused their eyes on Abel. It was four against one now. Abel was tapping his fingers against the armrest, glossing over their face before his eyes settled on his beautiful darling.

    "You''ll leave me?" he asked, raising his hand to y with her emerald hair.

    "I will visit you. We can y when winteres along since people tend to stay indoors during that season." Abel narrowed his eyes when she answered.

    Winter woulde soon, but that wasn''t what he focused on. Her remarks only meant Aries was still thinking of being a part of his life in the future, even if she wouldn''t live here.

    "Also, Marquess Vandran won''t seduce me. Even if he tries, it will be futile. He''s not as handsome as you. I won''t settle for less," she added бк now this was her specialty, inting his ego.

    Dexter''s expression this time died, while Conan grinned evilly. Meanwhile, Abel just chuckled with his lips closed before rocking his head.

    "Very well," he breathed out, breaking his absolute ''no,'' for the first time. Although Isaiah and Conan backed up Dexter''s condition, they didn''t raise their hope that much. Therefore, they already prepared an alternative just in case.

    However, for Abel to back down only meant they should thank Aries. If she were not so rational, things would be a little harder for them.

    "Thank you." The three of them froze when Aries smiled and leaned towards Abel, nting a quick peck on Abel''s cheek. But Abel''s soft expression for that simple coaxing was what was truly phenomenal to the three of them.

    "Anyway, since that is resolved..." He snapped his eyes at the three before casting Aries another look. "... let''s proceed to your new lesson schedule."

    "Huh?" she blinked cluelessly.

    The side of his lips stretched before casting a nce at the confused men across from him. "Your lessons in history, literature, and etiquette will have to be changed... a bit. Instead of history, Conan, you will teach Aries how to scheme. Isaiah will hone your skills in wielding weapons, and Marquess Vandran will... teach you all the things you need to know about poisons." He shed her a smile while she gazed back at him nkly.

    "I''m a strict instructor, Your Majesty. I will not go easy on her." Isaiah, who was a bit taken aback by the sudden orders, gave Abel a heads up.

    "Don''t worry. She is quite good. You''ll be surprised."

    "I don''t know how to scheme." Conan frowned only to receive a judgemental nce from Isaiah and Dexter.

    Abel chuckled as he pinched her cheek to bring her back to the currentpse. "And I will strengthen your stamina, darling. Don''t worry."

    "That''s not..." Aries trailed off as she nced at the rest of them. In the end, she couldn''t speak another word, overwhelmed by Abel''s orders.

    No one knew, even Aries was unaware, what kind of she-devil woulde back to the unsuspecting hell that broke her wings.

 Chapter 101 Family

    "Marquess Vandran, are you alright?"

    Aries broke the stifling silence in the carriage. Right now, they were heading to the Marquess Estate. It had only been yesterday when they all agreed about the n over breakfast. Surely, those men weren''t ying and wouldn''t waste time. If not for Abel''s dramatic skit, she would''ve gone yesterday.

    "Why wouldn''t I?" Dexter inquired, sitting opposite herfortably. "I should be the one asking you, Lady Aries. Are you alright?"

    "What do you mean by that?" she asked, along with an awkwardugh. "Of course I am."

    He shrugged. "Being Danie... Are you fine being my sister?"

    "I don''t think I should be the one answering that, since she''s your sister and I''m simply borrowing her identity." She smiled wearily, peeling her eyes away from him to the window. "Marquess, why did you agree with it?"

    "Why not?" Dexter leaned back, eyes on the window as well, arms crossed. "It sounds fun. Haimirich had been so peaceful as ofte. It''s boring to banter with His Majesty and Sir Conan all the time."

    Aries cast him a quick look, only to see his nonchnt mien. "Marquess Vandran, what is Danie like?" she asked, making Dexter raise a brow.

    "I mean, I heard that you are fond of your sister and protected her with everything you can. I do not want to do things that will sully her name."

    Dexter stared at her slight smile for a minute before letting out a defeatedugh. "Danie... is the most beautiful girl I''ve seen in this world." He smiled gently, averting his eyes from her to the window once again."

    "She is a bit clumsy and silly, but she has a golden heart. It just so happened that she... isn''t blessed with a healthy body. And his brother isn''t rich enough to salvage her deteriorating health," he continued.

    Aries furrowed her brows as she listened in silence. ''Did he mean he isn''t rich enough as in isn''t rich with lifespan to prolong his sister''s life?''

    "Despite that, she isn''t well herself, she''s more worried about me. She''s that silly. Even when she took herst breath, she was worried I would put myself in harm. All her life, all she thinks about was my welfare." His eyes softened as a subtle smile dominated his face at the thought of his sister. "That''s the kind of sister Dan is. So, I had always wanted to protect her and side with her... even when she was wrong, even when I sometimes didn''t approve of her decisions, and even when she was stubborn. Did I regret it? Never."

    Aries remained silent all throughout, puzzled at how Danie seemed to be a very kind person and then not at the next second. Either way, she didn''t probe too much. It could be Danie was only kind to her brother, but was awful to others. And Aries wouldn''t judge.

    In this dystopia, kindness wasn''t free, especially for others. Sometimes, a person''s intention, even if it was pure, could cost their life. Aries had been there; the entire kingdom of Rikhill paid for the price. It would take more guts for someone to keep choosing kindness and forgiveness than choosing to be evil.

    And most of them, Aries included, chose the easy way. She might forgive, but not those who took everything away from her.

    "Will you be angry if I addressed you, brother?" she asked, making him freeze momentarily, stunned at her sudden inquiry.

    "If I''m going to be Danie, I want to live up to her name. Of course, that''s presumptuous of me, considering you are simply letting me borrow her identity," she exined before she huffed, shing him a bright smile. "However, I also had siblings who, sadly, left this world a little too early. It would be nice to feel what having a family feels like again."<sub> </sub>

    Her eyes softened, speaking from the heart. They both knew they would never be siblings. But still, they finally found amon denominator. That was... they were both filial. They both sought a family they could rely on without pretense.

    Of course, she could rely on Abel. But their rtionship was different; she couldn''t really see Abel as someone who could be her brother. He could be a friend, but he would never give that sibling love that was just so precious and special in its own way.

    "It''s fine if you don''t want to." She waved awkwardly, but then he let out waves ofughter. Her brows elevated, appalled by the sudden joy in hisughter. "Uhm... did it sound so ridiculous?"

    "Yes..." He wiped the tears from the corner of his eyes, shaking his head as he tried to recover from that joke.

    "Sorry..."

    "No, no, it''s fine." He waved whilst shaking his head. "I do not mind being your brother, in papers or for show. Lady Aries, I simply want to press His Majesty''s nerve with my condition. Obviously, I didn''t expect him to agree, considering his personality. I mean, this entire situation won''t benefit me at all, aside from entertainment. In other words, it''s not my problem."

    She frowned while listening to his awful confession. "I know that, but don''t make it sound like you''re awful."

    "I never said I wasn''t." He grinned yfully, enjoying her mild re. "If I was, I wouldn''t spread the rumor about His Majesty''s gender crisis."

    "You... what?" she gasped in disbelief, the image of the gentle, noble, and smart tutor in her head slowly shattering.

    "His Majesty knows, and we both shared a goodugh." He shrugged, but Aries scrunched her nose up.

    "And here I thought there''s one who got lost in a group of mad people," she mumbled, erasing the initial image of Dexter in her head. "Good riddance. No wonder Abel is so fond of you."

    "Abel isn''t your husband to call him with his name so casually."

    "We are each other''s mistress," she argued in a matter-of-fact tone, snapping her tongue at him. "Also, he likes it."

    "My... your brother doesn''t approve."

    "My brother can just chew his handkerchief while I enjoy my life with a handsome man." She smiled shamelessly, unfolding the formal facade since Dexter was no different from Conan and Abel.

    As the two bantered, they didn''t realize that this was the first time they truly bantered like children. That all their interactions from beginning up until this point were formal and informative talks, not a discussion just to trash each other.

    Little did they know blood would not indicate if they were family or not. Their action would.

 Chapter 102 Day One

    When Aries arrived at the Marquess estate, her eyes almost popped out of their socket. She held her breath, standing beside Dexter.

    "Marquess, I mean, brother, what is going on?" she leaned to his side, whispering while keeping her eyes at the servants lined up on both sides while bowing deeply.

    Dexter nced at her as he offered his arm to her. "They are weing the only princess of the empire, obviously." He smirked before the servants spoke in unison.

    "Wee back, My Lady. And we wish for your full recovery."

    Aries furrowed her brows, sping Dexter''s arm as they marched forth. She didn''t expect to have this warm wee from the servants since she believed they were the only ones who knew about Danie''s death. But it seemed they had no idea that Danie died, and she wasn''t Danie.

    "It was a long journey. I will take Danie to her roomter. Bring us tea while we rest in my study." Dexter ordered a middle-aged man бк the head butler of the house.

    "Yes, my lord." Gustavo, the head butler, ced his palm across his chest and bowed slightly. He shed a polite smile at Aries before he went to prepare them the tea the marquess asked.

    As he walked away, Aries could not help but fix her eyes on him. Gustavo was a middle-aged man with a towering and slim figure. His hair was nched with a streak of ck on its neatly tucked turfs. And that monocle surely suited the prim air he exuded.

    "Dan." Aries blinked and set her eyes back to Dexter. "Let''s go."

    Dexter cocked his head slightly before she nodded. Aries then followed him to the study while looking around the marquess''s estate. There was no shadow of a doubt Dexter was rich, filthy rich. Everything in the mansion, from ceiling to floor, screamed luxury.

    She thought the Rose Pce was already a luxurious ce to live in. But the marquess''s residence was the other face of luxury. It could even par with the Rose Pce since that was the best ce in the entire imperial pce. She was so engrossed in studying the hallway, admiring everything, that she didn''t realize they reach the study.

    "After you." Dexter opened the door for her, standing on the side.

    "Uh... thank you." She smiled awkwardly before entering the study. To her surprise, the study wasn''t just a simple study room. It was a library. She looked up, even the second floor was surrounded by bookshelves.

    The huge chandelier above sparkled, granting a cozy atmosphere in the room. Her mouth fell open. This ce wasn''t as big as the library in the inner pce, but it was gorgeous.

    "Wee, Danie." She flinched when Dexter spoke to her side, casting him a look only to see his proud smile. "From now on, you''ll spend most of your days in this ce. Why don''t we take a seat first?"

    "Alright."

    "People in this ce know you came from a long journey," Dexter marched towards the round table, dragging one chair for her to sit on. When Aries expressed her gratitude upon sitting down, he sauntered towards the chair close to her.

    "But they didn''t know it was just an hour''s journey," he added as he unbuttoned his coat before plopping his butt down. "Since we still have time, I would like to brief you on a few things beforehand. I didn''t get to tell them since the carriage ride is short and you were distracting me."<sub> </sub>

    "You started it," she mumbled, but he ignored it as he leaned back.

    Dexter rested his leg over the other, hands linked on hisp, eyes on her. "From this moment on, I will call you Danie and you... will be Danie. The main objective here is to fool everyone. Now, if you''re wondering, howe the servants didn''t recognize you is that they never saw her face." He paused so she could follow since he wouldn''t have time to repeat everything again.

    "Danie was recuperating in one of our private residences in a faraway town that is close to nature. But s, you already know all those things didn''t help, and she still left this world. In other words, those selected few who had seen Danie weren''t in this mansion," he continued in a knowing and slow voice to make things clear to her. "Still, the servants in this ce weren''t foolish. All the servants in the stronghold were quick-witted and had undergone extensive training just to work in here."

    "My point is, they might think you are Danie just because I said so, but they would notice a thing or two immediately. Unlike the pce where everyone pretended to be blind, deaf, and mute, my people are different."

    "What..."

    "They might not maltreat you for my sake, but if they don''t believe you are Danie, then expect that those in the Maganti won''t buy your disguise." He stressed, without much change in his expression.

    Aries kept quiet for a moment, blinking while staring at him. Her eyes caught his golden hair that was akin to the sun shining gloriously in the morning. His thick yet fleek brows, narrow and sharp nose, a pair of light olive eyes, naturally contoured cheek, and his cleft chin.

    If Abel''s beauty was akin to perfection, Dexter''s charms were different. If she could describe it, it was... noble. But that wasn''t the point.

    It didn''t cross her until now that Dexter... didn''t look like her. Their eyes probably shared almost the same color but in a different shade. But one could tell if they stood side by side, they weren''t siblings.

    The hair color was already an indicator.

    "Can I ask? Do you think they already raised suspicion the first time theyid their eyes on me?" she inquired, watching the corner of his lips curl up into a smirk.

    "What do you think?" he cocked his head to the side. "That hair of yours must''ve surprised them."

    "..."

    He purposely did it, she thought. He purposely didn''t tell her about the people in here, so he could see whether she could salvage it. But to his surprise, Aries smiled not long after as her eyes glinted with rity.

    "The second everyone in Maganti sees this face, they would also raise suspicion. This is a good exercise," she expressed while nodding approvingly. "Thank you, brother."

    Dexter looked at her in a daze for a split second before he smiled warmly. "You''re wee, Danie."

 Chapter 103 "..."

    Although there were downsides that everyone in Dexter''s estate had keen eyes, there were still too many things that worked to Aries''s advantage. Since no one in this ce had ever seen Danie''s face, it was easier to act as Danie.

    Aries clipped the tip of her hair in between her fingers, sitting on the edge of the mattress.

    "I need to change my hair color first," she whispered, snapping her brows as her eyes gazed at the mirror in her new bedroom. "Let''s see..."

    She pushed herself up, marched towards the mirror, and perched on the stool. She looked at herself intensely, raising a finger to point at her cheekbone.

    "I need to have a little resemnce with Marquess Vandran, but we don''t really look much alike." Aries tilted her head to the side, imagining Dexter''s face beside hers. Her eyes fluttered countless times, while her frown was growing worse.

    "I need a total makeover. Good thing Abel painted my body, so I can use the excuse I dyed my hair out of boredom." She nodded in agreement, thinking what kind of persona Danie would have. "Pampered, sweet, and... just a little of everything. Now that I think about it, that man... what does he like?"

    With everything that was going on, Aries couldn''t help but think of things she knew about the Maganti Empire and the people there. She lived in that hell for two years and several months. Therefore, she knew a thing or two of the royalties'' preferences and such.

    "It''s fine, Aries... you''ll be fine," she whispered, rxing her grip on the edge of the table attached to the mirror. "It''s fine now. You can do it. Trust the process."

    Aries took deep breaths while patting her chest. Every time she thought of the Maganti Empire, a surge of memories would always sh in her eyes. Her heart would then drum against her chest until she was out of breath. Not just those god-awful years woulde back to her, but the cries of her people, their determined yells, and the sight of their lifeless body flocking the streets of Rikhill.

    It was terrible.

    But she had to face them now. "You''re not alone, Aries." She raised her eyes and smiled wearily at her reflection, nodding encouragingly.

    "Remember. You''re not alone anymore. There are people... powerful ones who are willing to help. And you, you have yourself... like always. I got your back, hmm?" she pressed her lips into a thin lip, forcing a smile on her face.

    Like always, Aries would always be there for Aries. She was her only ally in that ce. She smiled when a sudden thought crossed her head.

    "Even if I turn my back on myself now, he wouldn''t." She chuckled, biting her lower lip while shaking her head. "Goodness, I''m crazy, but he''s a lunatic..."

    Aries trailed off as she smiled bitterly, shifting her eyes at the ss doors connecting to the balcony. "Abel... I kinda miss him." She nted her hands on the surface of the table, pushing herself up to walk towards the balcony.

    As soon as she opened the door to the balcony, the cool night breeze blew past her. A smile resurfaced on her lips, letting the wind blow her hair back as she entered the balcony. Aries nted her hands on the railings, breathing in deeply before releasing it through her mouth.

    "I think I''m going crazy, Abel," she whispered, opening her eyes ever so slowly. "Really... it hadn''t been a day since I left the Rose Pce, but I can''t help but think of you."

    Normally, during this time, she and Abel would be wrestling under the sheet. It could be they were wrestling to feel each other''s body or just tickling each other. The past week with just the two of them in the Rose Pce was nothing but... fun.

    It didn''t matter if there weren''t servants to help; they helped each other. Also, it gave them more activities to do together. She wouldn''t deny that she slowly got used to that life. Sleeping beside him, sensing his fingertips stroke her spine, inhaling the scent of his skin, and listening to his heartbeat before she sumb to the darkness called sleep.<sub> </sub>

    "I was happy, Abel," came out another whisper, bending over to lean her arms against the railings. "You and I... were genuinely happy. I know because I felt it, Love."

    She gazed at the faraway darkness, eyes in the direction of the imperial pce. Her subtle smile remained, thinking of him and their days together. It was surely a vacation with nothing to think about but themselves; a vacation where she felt so free for the first time in a very long time.

    "I wonder if he is thinking about me..." she trailed off as her smile suddenly faded. "He didn''t call women to his bed now that I was gone, right?"

    Aries tilted her head to the side. She might''ve fallen deeper and deeper into the ''abyss,'' as what she called it. But Abel was fickle. It was so hard to trust a man like Abel since he was literally a ticking time bomb.

    Out of sight, out of mind.

    Those words suddenly hovered over her head, making her frown grow worse. A re slowly reced the affection in her eyes.

    "I hope he is behaving himself. It''s better if he loses his mind and goes in here," she grumbled, almost on the verge of ripping her scalp apart. "Ugh... Aries, why would you suddenly think like that? Don''t you trust him?"

    This time, her expression instantly died. "Of course, I don''t. That..." she ground her teeth, straightening her back while balling her hand into a fist.

    "Should I sneak out and catch him on the act? I''ll kill him myself..." Aries trailed off when she caught a raven flying to the balcony. It didn''t take a long time when the ravennded on the railing.

    "It''s you..." she smiled in relief, eyes falling on the letter tied around its feet. "Abel."

    Her eyes softened as she reached out to untie the letter around its feet. However, she stopped and sharpened her eyes, pointing a finger at the raven.

    "Stay, alright? I need you to deliver a letter to your master." Aries narrowed her eyes before she cautiously took the letter. Seeing that the raven stayed on the railing, she heaved a sigh of relief while opening the small piece of paper.

    To her dismay, the context of the letter was three dots. Yes, just three dots!

    "Is this some kind of secret code?" she wondered, clicking her tongue as Abel''s letters weren''t the usual long poetic ones. They were usually straight to the point, but it seemed he leveled up again.

    "Goodness... what does this mean, anyway?" Another sigh slipped past her lips as she shook her head, snapping her eyes at the raven before warning him again. "Wait for me, alright? I need you to send a letter to him."

    Aries hurried inside her room and headed directly to the study desk. She clumsily picked up the pen and ink, biting her lips as she wrote a short message. The side of lips curled up in satisfaction, blowing on it to dry it up quickly. Once it did, she hurriedly rolled it while sprinting back to the balcony.

    "Deliver it fast, alright?" she grinned while tying the drawstrings around the raven''s feet. As soon as she finished tying it, she stepped back as the raven fluttered its wings, flying back to the imperial pce.

    "I really wish he is here," she whispered before going back in to rest as the air was getting chilly.

 Chapter 104 <3<3<3

    "I''m worried."

    Conan whispered as he bent over to speak with Isaiah. Standing behind the settee, Isaiah was perching inside the emperor''s office. Thetter only cast Conan a nonchnt look before setting his eyes at the emperor sitting behind his desk.

    "He''s alright," Isaiah reassured, watching Abel arrange pieces of papers on the desk silently.

    "Really?" Conan scrunched his nose up, setting his judgmental eyes at Abel. "Doesn''t look like it."

    Ever since this morning, when Aries left, Abel never stood up from that spot. Until now that it was nighttime, Abel was still in his office, arranging pieces of paper on the desk. The two weren''t nagging him to rest, knowing it was actually better to see him do something than do nothing at all.

    Isaiah had been keeping an eye on Abel. Thetter would surely abduct Aries. Why did Abel even think of sending Aries to the Maganti Empire if he couldn''t stand her absence?

    "What is he even doing?" asked Conan once again as it seemed Abel was too engrossed in what he was doing.

    Isaiah just shrugged and looked at him dead in the eye. "My only job here is to make sure he stays in the pce."

    "Tsk." Conan rolled his eyes, straightening his back. He carefully tiptoed his way towards the emperor''s desk but kept a safe distance. When he was near, he stretched his neck, standing on his toes, and narrowed his eyes.

    His face distorted upon catching what was keeping Abel busy. ''What are those? Letters?'' Conan took three careful steps to have a closer look.

    He didn''t see it incorrectly. It was actually letters! He narrowed his eyes even more and his face twitched. He recognized that handwriting. It was Aries''s! So Abel was collecting her letters?

    "Collection. Ta dah~!" Conan flinched when Abel motioned his hands over the desk with a proud smile. "Conan, I want you to procure frames... golden ones with gems as embellishments for every single one of her letters."

    "Huh?"

    "And a private, enormous room. I would like to collect Aries''s letters, clothes, strands of her hair, and maybe mummified her once she''s dead." Abel nodded in agreement with his finger on his chin. "I can also hire the best painter to make her portrait бк tons of them. It would be best if there''s a huge cage in it so I can lock her there... no, that sounds wrong. I need a huge cage that can fit two people."

    "Your Majesty, I''ve never been so scared in my life!" Conan confessed with a shaking voice, feeling a little guilty for pushing Aries to Abel.

    This emperor was only pitiful when Aries was ignoring him. But now that the both of them acted as if they were inseparable, Abel''s demand had significantly increased. Not that it was only downsides. There was also a good side since deaths in the pce also decreased.

    Abel blinked twice before covering his face with both his palms without a word. Conan took a step back, ncing at Isaiah, who was minding his own business while reading a document on the settee.

    "Boo!" Although Abel''s voicecked interest, Conan still flinched when Abel spread the hands that were covering his face. "Have you always been this pathetic, Conan?"<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty! I thought that''s the sign you''ll kill me!" thetter harrumphed, patting his chest as he truly thought he stepped out of his bound.

    "You two should leave me alone." Abel shook his head lightly. "I don''t needpany. If you think I will be sad, I am not."

    <o>,m "We''re staying here because we know you wille to her." This time, Isaiah had to voice his thoughts aloud. "Your Majesty, Lady Aries needs to make everyone believe she is Lady Danie. If youe to her, everyone will know you and her are in that kind of rtionship."</o>

    "Is there something we should be embarrassed about it? I killed Danie and Dexter hates me for that; I don''t think that counts, though."

    ''Even after serving him for this long, I still want to ask him if he''s crazy, even when the answer is obvious.'' Conan mentally sighed in distress.

    "I get you two, alright? If I want to sabotage Aries''s revenge, why would I even propose it in the first ce? I''m not crazy." Abel snickered as he happily linked his hands on top of the desk. "However, I cannot deny I am crazy for her. It hadn''t been a day since she left the Rose Pce and yet..."

    He trailed off, separating his hand, and turned them so his palms were facing him. His naturally sharp eyes glinted as they softened.

    "I yearned to hold her, feel her bones, the softness of her skin, and warmth. Conan, perhaps, Aries is a witch? Will you find out what kind of spell she cast upon me? My heart is bleeding with her absence." Abel frowned as he raised his head at Conan, cing his palm across his chest. "I might actually die this time from internal wounds."

    "Your Majesty..."

    KNOCK KNOCK!

    Before Conan couldplete his sentence, Abel twisted his neck to look at the window. A bright smile instantly reced his dramatic frown, hopping from his seat towards the window. He didn''t idle, opening the window and picking up the letter tied around the raven''s feet.

    As soon as Abel opened it, his eyes softened, and his smile stretched. Holding it to his right, he stroked the raven before walking back to the desk.

    "See this? She said she misses me so much it''s killing her! And a little worried that I might''ve called women to my room." Abel boasted as he walked back to his spot, showing off her letter that would automatically add to his collection. "Isn''t she adorable?"

    Conan scrunched his nose up, eyes on the piece of paper Abel was holding. "Your Majesty, it''s only three hearts!" there was no shadow of the doubt that Aries only sent Abel three small hearts!

    "Right... you will never understand Aries because you''re not the great Abel." Abel clicked his tongue continuously, plopping down on the chair behind the desk. He held the new letter from Aries with both his hands up, smiling from ear to ear like a kid ogling on his new toy.

    "How sweet," he whispered as his eyelids dropped until they were partially closed. "Isaiah, if you n to keep me in here, you should hold on to your weapon now. Although... it''ll be futile."

 Chapter 105 The Devils Word

    While nning for the important things she must change in her appearance, Aries eventually fell deep into her sleep. It took her a long time to fall asleep on this enormous and soft bed, as it felt a little empty. Or rather, a bit too huge for her.

    But when she did, as the night fell deeper, Aries found herself in memory of the painful past.

    Blinking until her vision grew clearer, her hand that was barely skin and bones wrapped around the metals caging her. Inside a square cage that was big enough for her to fit with her body curled up, she shivered when the inbound breeze of the room caressed her thin ankle.

    How long had it been since she entered this small cage that forced her to stay hunched in? Her eyes lowered, seeing the crumbs of food left on the concrete surface.

    She was being treated like a dog, but she couldn''t feel anything anymore. She picked up a grain of rice to her mangled lips, hoping that would make her survive longer.

    <strong>Two years.</strong> She had endured two years of torture, she couldn''t die now.

    After the crown prince and all other princes and princesses had fun toying with her, he was now trying to kill her slowly and painfully. Aries knew. The crown prince was getting tired of her.

    She knew because now he barely saw her. He simply locked her in this small cage like an animal, getting just enough food so she wouldn''t die immediately. Unlike the pigs'' slops, they served her in the past. Now they fed her once every three or four days. And the portion of the food had decreased significantly.

    "I''m hungry," came out a whisper, not having enough strength to go on. All she could think about was her contracting, empty stomach. Her spirit, although still alive, was slowly dying along with this body.

    ''I can''t die... not yet... I can''t бк you can''t Aries... God... please,'' she closed her eyes, breathing in and out heavily. ''Don''t let me die. If anyone is listening... please give me strength to go on.''

    Aries held on to the little faith she had been holding on for years. Even at this moment, she was praying to the God she believed in. But all she heard in return was the sound of footsteps бк light footsteps echoing like thunders in her ears.

    She slowly opened her eyes, seeing two pairs of ck boots before her. Although they were ck, she could see the speck of blood on them. Slowly, she raised her eyes as the person outside squatted down.

    Her eyes softened as soon as her lifeless eyes met the pair of vermillion beyond the metal bars. "You..." she whispered softly, ignoring the painful scratch in her throat. "You''re... here?"

    "Darling, why are you inside this cage?" he inquired with a frown, his eyes studying her pitiful state. "Don''t die inside here."

    "How...?" her mangled lips quivered, reaching out to touch his face. "Why are you here?"

    "Because I miss you?" Abel leaned his cheek against her rough and dirty palm, holding it gently.

    "You can''t be here," she whispered bitterly.

    "Why not?"<sub> </sub>

    "Because..." Aries trailed off as she looked at her petite arms that slipped in the tiny gap between the metal bars. "... am I worthy? Still?"

    The side of his lips curled up, nodding slightly. "Was there a second you aren''t?"

    "I prayed to God, but you came," sheughed under her breath, brushing his lean cheek with her thumb. "I''m dying here. My heart is burning and yet, I cannot do anything." бк she wasn''t strong enough to break this small cage, nor did she have the strength to do so.

    Aries was deprived of food for days now. If she could describe her state, it was as if life was slipping away from her loose grip. And that scared her, knowing she was only a step away from death. She hadn''t gotten her revenge and the people who put her in this pathetic state were still happily breathing without a problem.

    "Help." He stressed, watching her look up at him weakly. "Say, help me, and I wille and get you."

    Her lips opened and closed, but she couldn''t find the voice to say that word. The dominant part of her told her she shouldn''t call help from the devil. Even if she wanted to, even when she was desperate, she must never call help from the devil.

    "How stubborn." Heughed with his lips closed, squeezing her hand that was on his jaw. "If you don''t want, thene to me, darling. You must survive this ce. No matter what, get out of this cage ande to me. We''ll have so much fun together."

    She smiled wearily, staring at him affectionately. "Had I ever told you you''re so beautiful?" eyes scanning his bewitching face. But when she blinked, the man''s face changed.

    "You think... I am beautiful?" the man inquired with a sinister smirk, but Aries just tilted her head in confusion.

    She was hallucinating, slowly forgetting the man whom she was talking to in her head moments ago. Yes. All this time, Aries was just smiling without saying a single word.

    "Do you think I am still worthy... even after what I had done to you?" came out another arrogant question with his smirk persisting.

    Even so, ''<strong>that man''s''</strong> words, who looked like a devil in human skin, were stuck in her head. She must do whatever it means to get out of this cage. Everything and anything. So, using her little strength, she smiled genuinely.

    "Was there a second you aren''t?" she asked, copying the ''devil''s'' answer to that same question.

    "Hah... now you''re learning." The manughed, grinning from ear to ear until his teeth were showing. "Aries, aren''t you amazing? Every time you''re on a brink of death, you always learn a few tricks. Are you that desperate to live?"

    She didn''t answer anymore as she pressed her lips into a thin line, retracting her petite arms back. Aries balled her body in silence, but her eyes remained on him. Those eyes, which were lifeless moments ago, showed rity once again.

    That day... she left the cage. Changing her approach the second she filled her stomach until the day the crown prince took her with him to a neutralnd where she met the devil.

 Chapter 106 Almost Time For Them To Prowl The Street Of Haimirich

    Aries let out a soft moan, waking up at the crack of dawn after her dream. But just as she moved, she realized the warmth wrapped around her. Before she could panic, those muscr arms pulled her against his body.

    "Sleep some more." Her eyes nearly left their socket, hearing Abel''s coarse voice. "You said you missed me, so I came."

    Abel nted a quick peck on top of her head, rubbing her back out of habit. When the familiar musky scent wafted her nose, her heart and body gradually rxed. Her eyes softened as a subtle smile dominated her face.

    "d you''re here," she whispered, moving her hand that was between them over his body. Aries didn''t ask how he got in here or since when he was there because it didn''t matter. She closed her eyes once again, attempting to go back to sleep.

    However, despite the snugly feeling with her body squeezed against his, Aries couldn''t sleep. Abel was still stroking her back, so she knew he hadn''t fallen asleep as well.

    "I had a strange dream," she murmured, opening her eyes partially.

    "A dream?"

    "Mhm... not a nightmare бк well, it was a bit." She breathed out heavily, trying to recall the dream she had.

    "I see..." Abel slowly opened his eyes, waiting for her to continue.

    "But I forgot about it." Aries sighed as the dream felt like she could remember it, but not at the same time. It was as if the more she tried to recall, the faster that dream blur.

    "But what I''m certain is, it''s weird."

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed, pulling her body closer even though there wasn''t any gap between them anymore. "All dreams are weird, darling. Don''t think about it too much. You might have a nightmare once you sleep again."

    "I won''t." She giggled, moving her head until her nose was touching his neck. "You''re here."

    "Behave, darling. I didn''te here for that... at least, not the first on the list, but definitely the second."

    "I am behaving." Aries frowned, hugging him tightly like a teddy bear. "You''ll have a hard time if you keep going to me even when I live in the marquess estate."

    "You will, not me," he arguedzily. Aries didn''t reply anymore, but she sniffed him, trying to detect any traces of another woman. "I didn''t."

    She stopped. "You didn''t what?"

    "Call for night services. Too busy." Abel rested his leg over her thigh.

    "Will you call for them if you''re not busy?"

    "Jealous?" he humored. "I might call for them just to make you jealous."

    "As if." She rolled her eyes and pushed him away, only for him to secure her tightly in his arms.<sub> </sub>

    A subtle smile turned up on his face, resting his chin on top of her head. "Don''t tempt me, darling. I nearly killed Isaiah just to be here."

    "You, what?"

    "Let''s just sleep some more." Once again, he nted a peck on top of her head. "I missed you."

    Aries bit her inner lip, rxing her body in the safety of his embrace. His warmth and tone told her it was impossible for him to be with another woman. They would never be enough. It made her smile a bit, as his actions were far better than anything.

    There was no need to worry. Abel was hers; she got him wrapped around her hand, which made her a little бк a little too much бк happy.

    If only he knew how intense, how deep, and how dark this attachment growing within her. No, if Aries only knew this growing feeling that continued to grow like tree roots underneath the ground, it would terrify her.

    While Aries tried to sleep, Abel kept his eyes partially open. He kept stroking her back gently to make her fall asleep, sniffing the faint floral scent of her hair. He continued on doing that until the weight of her head on his arms increased and her breathing grew heavier.

    ''How... did she see me?'' he wondered, recalling the dream he peeked as soon as he snuck under the sheet with her. Actually, he didn''t mean to take a peek at her dreams. He was dragged into it.

    Abel simply approached her in the dream, knowing she wouldn''t see him. However, not only did she see him, she had a conversation with him. It left him with tons of question marks inside his head.

    Why? Because that dream... actually happened to Aries in the past.

    In other words, that dream was real. Who was she talking to that time, then? Did she really mistake the crown prince for Abel? But they didn''t meet beforehand; actually, they had no rtion or connection before they met during the world summit.

    "So interesting," he crooned, gazing down at her only to see her deep asleep. "Darling, have you perhaps seen me beforehand? If you do, were you actually one of my admirers?"

    Abel chuckled in a low tone and shook his head lightly. Surely, Aries never failed to surprise him in the most unexpected situations. Now Abel had something to think about while she was away from the imperial pce.

    ''Darling, you don''t know how you just made Isaiah''s injuries worth it.'' He mentallyughed, patting her back as she closed his eyes to sleep. ''I might actually bear the longing to embrace you for a day or two to crack this riddle.''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Meanwhile...

    Conan bent over to lean against the railing, staring at the wounded Isaiah, who was slumped on thendscape below the balcony of the emperor''s office. Isaiah was lying t on his back, gazing nkly at the cloudless night sky. From Conan''s vantage point, Isaiah looked pretty much dead after his failed attempt to stop Abel.

    "It is, indeed, a futile attempt to stop His Majesty from seeing Lady Aries." He sighed, propping his knuckles against the cheek. "How was he supposed to send Lady Aries to that empire if he cannot even stand this distance between them?"

    There was a momentary silence before Conan spoke again. "Well, either way, it''s still good that His Majesty didn''t just order to obliterate the Maganti Empire." He looked up, pressing his lips into a thin line.

    "It''s almost time for the coven."

 Chapter 107 She Was Scared Of Whats Inside Her Head And Soul

    When Aries woke up the next day, she smiled bitterly as she caressed the empty spot on her side. Not the first morning without Abel, but it felt like it was.

    It was almost unbelievable.

    "Not long ago, I''m relieved whenever I wake up without him," she muttered, sighing as she settled her hand on the creases on the sheet. She could still feel the faint warmth he left and his distinct scent on the white sheet and on her body.

    Aries smiled, knowing those were the piece of evidence that Abel was with herst night. "I''m not as upset as I thought I would be," she mumbled, moving closer to the space heid downst night while clutching the nket.

    How Abel snuck in and out didn''t matter to her. The man was Abel; he could do anything if he wanted to. Trespassing on a person''s personal space or property was a piece of cake for him. All she had in mind was that she could get by in this ce, slowly but surely.

    Aries rolled on the bed, awoke a little too early before the maids woulde to serve her for the day. When sheid on her back, eyes on the ceiling, Aries furrowed her brows.

    "Am I..." she bit her tongue, focusing on the sudden thought in her head. "... obsess?"

    She didn''t like the term, but the more she thought about her actions, the madness that swelled up in her chest with the thought of Abel being with another woman was something she never felt before. She had been angry. But it felt different because she also felt hurt a bit.

    "No, no, of course, I am not." Aries shook her head to get that thought out of her head. "That''s not..."

    Once again, she trailed off as she stared nkly at the ceiling. If Abel didn''test night, she was certain that the seed of doubt in her heart would grow significantly. But since it was obvious he wouldn''t do that, she felt calmer and relieved now.

    "Do I love Abel?" she asked herself, and she didn''t even bat an eye when she answered a quick, "no, I don''t."

    It wasn''t love. Love... was something she had a bad image of. Love was the word everyone used, which eventually led to that tragedy.

    "Do I want him dead? Abel... can you live without him, Aries?" she inquired once again, reevaluating her state of mind, not heart. This time, her eyes softened in bitterness as she sighed at the answer she came up with.

    "Abel cannot die... in the hands of someone other than mine." She was fine if Abel would die with her hands, but she was definitely not cool if he died from someone else''s hands.

    Perhaps she had slowly be a pervert after spending day and night with him. But that was what was clear to her. Not that she wanted to kill him, but she was capable of doing the extreme if he hurt her.

    "And I don''t feel guilty about it," she murmured, spreading her arms wide while keeping her eyes on the ceiling. "Does he feel the same?" she wondered. "I mean Abel... did he feel the same now?"

    If she would answer for him, the answer was gray. Abel was the man who could burn an entire country overnight and he wouldn''t even bat an eye. He tried to kill her before, but he never did. He even expressed his regret for not killing her multiple times.<sub> </sub>

    "So he can''t kill me anymore?" she tilted her head before the side of his lips curled up. "I doubt. With proper reason, I''m certain he can kill me... after all, killing someone doesn''t necessarily mean taking theirst breath. I know because... I was once dead."

    Aries nodded in agreement before she heard a knock from the door. She shifted her eyes at the door, hearing a youthful voice of a woman asking her if she was awake by now. Her lips parted but ended up not responding.

    "Right... I am now Danie," she muttered, assisting herself up as she get into her character of the Danie she had in her head. As soon as she sat up, she caught a piece of parchment from her peripheral lying on the bedside table. Aries turned her head, crawling to take out the rose on top of the paper.

    [ I had a good night, my Aries. Think of me every second of every day, for I will do the same. Keep in touch.

    The grandfather of your grandchildren,

    Potato. ]

    Aries chuckled as she caressed the alias he used with her thumb. She then moved her attention to the rose, guiding it to her nose, and sniffed its fresh aroma.

    "If he was trying to be discreet, he shouldn''t have called wrote my name." She shook her head, but then stared at her name that he handwrote himself. "But then again... since everyone will be calling me Danie, I appreciate there is one person who reminds me I am Aries."

    Now her day was trulyplete. She didn''t have a very good sleep, but she had a good morning. With her great mood, Aries stretched her arms before flinging her legs out of the bed. Shen then hid the letter in one of the drawers, locking it.

    "I''ll keep it here for now and procure a small chestter." She nodded, still holding the rose in her hand. "Now... time to be Danie."

    Aries took a deep breath before she cast the door a look. But instead of opening it for the maid outside, Aries sauntered towards the balcony while breaking the stem of the rose. When she reached the balcony, she ced the rose over her ear and sat on the railing.

    "What a good day." Her feet outside the railings swayed back and forth, smirking when she heard the door from inside her room creak open.

    "Mydy?" called a maid as she carefully peeked her head out of the ss door connecting the room to the balcony.

    Aries took a deep breath before she turned her head back and smiled sweetly. "Good morning."

    This would be the brand of Danie: carefree, mischievous, stubborn, but sweet. Someone who wasn''t likable, but also hard to dislike. A person men would want to protect and desire, especially a certain someone who had seen this radiance as a challenge.

 Chapter 108 The Key To Fool Everyone...

    Seeing Aries sitting on the railing of the balcony, the maid panicked as she hurriedly assisted her back in. Like a carefree person, Aries simply giggled. It was evident that the slight panic she gave the servant distracted her from making her wonder about other things.

    After that, the maid prepared water for Aries to wash her face and a change of clothes from her nightdress to indoor clothes. As the maid served her, Aries carefully studied her every movement and absorbed relevant information like a sponge.

    Once she was prepared enough to dine in the dining hall, Aries happily followed the maid for breakfast. Although she kept a reserved demeanor, one could tell she was... radiating with positivity. It was as though every step she took brought colors to the already gorgeous estate.

    "Brother?" Aries smiled as soon as she entered the dining hall, strutting her way in. Meanwhile, Dexter simply cast her a quick look, holding a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

    "Good morning."

    He quirked a brow, eyes still on Aries, sitting on the chair closest to his spot at the end of the long table. She changed, he thought. He had been spending a fair amount of time with Aries in the imperial pce, so he immediately distinguished the difference with her aura now and before.

    ''Was it because that man trespassed this cest night?'' he wondered but didn''t dwell on it.

    "Did you have a great night?" he asked, breaking the ice while the servant served Aries some food.

    "Yes! I had a good dream." She grinned happily, tucking her hair behind her ear. "It''s been so long since I returned to the main residence. So, I was a little too excited to live under the same roof as you."

    Dexter raised a brow. There was not a trace of deception in her voice; even her eyes told the same as her mouth.

    "Don''t be too excited. You still need to rest a lot so you fully recover," he reminded her, but Aries pouted and snapped her tongue.

    "Brother... I am alright and doing better. This is why I had to stay in istion for a long time, even though I was already getting better. You always worry." A deep sigh slipped past her lips, smiling at the maid who served her the food before thetter bowed and smiled back. "I am cured now! I will die out of boredom. I already dyed my hair! Do you want me to change the color of my eyes too? And add more body arts?"

    "I''m just saying..." He shrugged indifferently while she picked up her cutlery.

    p "I know..." Her brows rose while putting butter on the bread. "You''re just thinking what''s best for me."</anda>

    When those words flew out of her lips, Dexter paused as he gazed at her briefly. Aries was still busy putting butter and sugar on her bread, prattling herints about him.

    ''The servants left,'' was what came in his head, ncing around. And yet, Aries was still acting the same when she didn''t need to.

    "Brother?" she called, looking at him with genuine wonder in her eyes. "Is there something wrong?" she asked, holding the bread to her lips.

    Aries chewed the bread with her eyes on him, blinking cluelessly. Staring and studying her for just a minute, Dexter was now hundred ten percent certain Aries was a great actress. If one didn''t know, they would truly think Dexter and Aries had a wonderful rtionship.

    "Nothing." He shook his head. "It''s nothing."

    "Oh..." she rocked her head and continued eating.

    Once again, Dexter cast her a look. Yet still, Aries didn''t show the slightest hint she had anything else in mind. It looked real; everything... almost felt real.

    "Do you like it?" he asked, watching her eat heartily.

    "Mhm!" She smiled with a stuffed mouth, swallowing it down before she cleared her throat. "It''s delicious. But what made it better is that I''m sharing a meal with you after so long."

    "Stop it." This time, his voice was cold as his eyes glinted. "You don''t have to keep up the act when no one is looking. I prefer it that way."

    "Huh? You prefer what? Brother?" Aries tilted her head to the side, utterly confused at his remarks. "What do you mean by that?"

    "I mean..." he couldn''t finish his sentence while exchanging eye contact with her. Instead, his brows knitted as his eyes narrowed.<sub> </sub>

    "Hmm?" she hummed with anticipation, taking another bite while she waited.

    "Nothing." He shook his head and sighed in defeat. "Forget what I said."

    A frown resurfaced on her face as she looked at him as if he was a strange creature. "Brother, you keep saying weird things and then say it''s nothing. Should I start worrying now?"

    "You don''t have to and don''t talk with food in your mouth. Have you forgotten etiquette?"

    "Of course. It hadn''t been that long when I started enjoying food again." Aries rolled her eyes as she huffed. "I have to learn etiquette again since I almost forgot everything after being stuck in my room for a long time. Also, I''m thinking of changing my hair back to its original color."

    She paused as a devious smile stered across her face. "Brother, I have a long list of things I want. I''ll behave, so can you...?"

    "You..." His expression was dead, sporting a poker face while she smiled awkwardly.

    "Please?"

    Dexter briefly looked at her doe eyes before he sighed in defeat. He pinched the bridge of his nose, having a little headache at what she was trying to do by acting like this in front of him.

    "Fine."

    Her grin stretched even broader and brighter. "You''re the best!"

    In the end, Dexter could only sigh and shake his head, watching her happily devour her breakfast in high spirits. But her act didn''t just stop there. Aries made sure to never let silence enter the dining hall, talking about her ''stay'' in the private residence beforeing in here andining every once in a while.

    "Huh? You''re done?" Aries inquired after a long time as Dexter ced the napkin beside his te.

    "Yes."

    "You''re leaving?" she frowned, watching him about to stand from his chair.

    "Yes."

    "Aww... but I''m not done yet."

    "Stop talking and focus on your food." Dexter clicked his tongue faintly, pushing himself up. "I need to attend to some important matters."

    "Will you join me for luncheon? Or... tea time, at least?" came out a quick follow-up inquiry, causing him to raise a brow. "How about dinner?"

    His lips finally parted after several seconds. "Dinner."

    "Alright. See you then." Aries grinned as she waved, watching him depart the dining hall. When he was by the door, Dexter nced over his shoulder, only to see her resuming in eating.

    ''What''s wrong with her?'' he wondered before leaving the dining hall. ''What sort of tactic did shee up with this time?''

    Aries kept slicing the meat on her te and only stopped when the doorpletely closed. She slowly raised her head, eyes on where Dexter left.

    The side of her lips slowly curled up into a smirk as her eyes glinted deviously. ''To deceive everyone here... doesn''t that mean I only have one target, brother? You? Their master?'' a delighted chuckle slipped past her lips as she shook her head.

 Chapter 109 The Feedback She Wants

    Abel''s initial interest in Aries wasn''t because she was beautiful or smart or there was anything special about her. What made him take her in as his pet was because of the situation and the ce; his mood at that time as well. But other than him, other people like Dexter were only curious about her.

    Dexter''s interest in her was because she was smart. She picked up things quite fast.

    That was why, when he told her he must fool everyone in the manor, Aries spent hours mulling over his words. And then it hit her.

    She didn''t have to make others believe her. She only needed to make Dexter believe she was Danie.

    It was ridiculous, but not impossible.

    People would look at the two of them and would instantly tell they didn''t resemble each other. But if she changed her hair color and add a bit of mour to her usual appearance, they would have simrities one way or another.

    Not that all siblings looked like each other. So, they could use that as an excuse. BUT, changing her appearance would never be enough.

    What she truly needed to change was how the marquess looked at her. If Dexter looked at her as if she was truly his sister, then who would question their rtionship? Who would question her identity if Dexter himself believed she was Danie?

    It might not be the moral thing to do, but Aries was determined to take advantage of Dexter''s grief. Well, not that this n was ''pure'' evil. After all, she also lost her family and everyone dear to her. So, she didn''t have any other ns than make him believe she was Danie. She would treat him sincerely, like a real family.

    "What now?"

    Dexter straightened his back, sitting behind the desk in his office in his home. His eyes fell on Aries, sitting on the settee and just digging a hole in his forehead with her stare.

    "Nothing?" Aries feigned innocence as she shrugged, eyebrow raised.

    "Why are you even here? I had already procured the thing you asked for your hair." He pinched the space between his brows, leaning against the desk. "Didn''t I show you your own study? Why... do you keep following me wherever I go?"

    "I''m not following you. I''m enjoying some tea and I find this ce more peaceful." Aries bit her tongue, knowing the study he had first shown her was just as silent as this ce. Actually, the entire manor was silent since the servants were trained to hold their tongue since Dexter doesn''t like unnecessary noises.

    "This is the third day..." he grumbled, regretting ever agreeing to Abel''s ns for her. "Please leave once you''re done drinking your tea. You''re distracting me."

    "Alright." Aries smiled. What she did next left him bbergasted, though. Aries reached for the bell, and the maidservant on standby immediately knocked and opened the door to answer her call.

    "The tea had gone cold, but that''s alright. Rece it with a cool refreshment instead."

    "Yes, my Lady."

    While the maid ced the tea set back on the tray, she cast Dexter a smile. Thetter could only let out a deep sigh before shaking his head.<sub> </sub>

    For the past three days бк the next day Aries arrived in the stronghold бк she kept following him. Although she wasn''t doing anything major and kept her distance, he wasn''t used that someone was following him.

    "Just go somewhere," he muttered, trying to refocus on reviewing the documents he needed to sign. "And stop bothering me."

    "How am I bothering you?"

    Dexter took a deep breath as he raised his gaze to her. "I can hear you breathing."

    "..." Aries pressed her lips into a thin line before she narrowed her eyes until they turned into a re.

    What was wrong with her breathing? It was not like she was breathing loudly! Not just Dexter, but it reminded her that Abel used the same excuse in the past, albeit for a different reason.

    "Leave once you finished your refreshment." He waved, shaking his head as he peeled his eyes away from her. Dexter tried to refocus his attention on his work. He didn''t even bother when the servant returned with a tray of refreshments and snacks.

    To his dismay, while the refreshments were being served, Aries spoke. His brow twitched as he slowly set his eyes back to her.

    "Mydy?" the maid furrowed her brows as she doubted her keen ears as well.

    "I said, put it in a pitcher. A huge one and fill it with this juice." Aries smiled, ignoring the aloof marquess. "I''m a little thirsty."

    "A бк Danie," came out a stern voice as his eyes darkened.

    "Brother, why did you ask me to return in here if you see my presence as an eyesore?" she snapped even before he could speak further, letting the servant hear her disappointment. "You should''ve let me rot in that ce if you can''t even spend a tea with me."

    Aries huffed, keeping her voice modest but her eyes full of frustration. "Put this away. I will return to my chambers at once."

    "Ye бк yes, mydy." The maid stammered, a bit taken aback as she carefully tiptoed back while Aries assisted herself up. This was the first time someone spoke like this to the marquess in this ce, so it was truly a little shocking.

    "Dani."

    Aries stopped by the door and looked back at him. "My apologies if I bothered you, my Lord. I will try to live as quiet as a dead rat and avoid your way. Have a good day." She tilted her head down slightly, turning her back against him, and never looking back as she walk away.

    Aries kept her shoulders and chin up, back straight, and solemn expression halfway to her quarters. But when she was certain no one was around, the side of her lips curled up.

    ''I got a good reaction from that servant,'' she thought, treading carefully through the hallway. ''Even Marquess Vandran looks a little taken aback. This will be easier than I thought.''

 Chapter 110 The Only Thing She Looks Forward Everyday

    Aries stayed inside her room the next day, sulking like a pampered princess. But that wasn''t because to gain sympathy from Dexter. She was staying in her room because she meant it when she said she would live as quiet as a dead rat.

    The first three days she had followed Dexter, she made sure he would feel her presence. Even if she stayed from a distance and did nothing major other than follow him, that was good enough for her. Her objective was to let Dexter know ''his sister'' was in this ce.

    "Mydy, His Lordship will worry if you don''t eat properly." The worried voice of the young maid brushing Aries''s hair snapped her back to the currentpse. "You''re still recovering and..."

    "I don''t want another word from you," came out a cold voice, ncing at the servant''s reflection in the vanity mirror. Thetter lowered her head and pursed her lips, still brushing Aries hair delicately.

    ''I''m sorry,'' Aries apologized in her heart as she was simply following the character of Danie in her head.

    She couldn''t paint Danie as someone pure with a heart of gold. Aries had believed that someone who was too good to be true was far more dangerous. She learned her lesson from that man; the man who was also too good to be true, but ended up ruining her country and her.

    Moreover, from what Dexter told her, Danie sounded lovely and caring to Dexter, but also a little terrible. Although he didn''t specify anything, Aries wanted to be that close to the little details the marquess told her about his sister.

    "Don''t mention his name." Aries broke her silence with a mncholic voice, catching the servant''s attention. "It''s better to stay in that ce. At the very least, he can use the distance as an excuse for not visiting his only sister."

    "My apologies, my Lady."

    "Just don''t do it again unless I say so. Know your ce." She nced at the young maid once again, seeing thetter nod.

    Silence then dawned in the room until the maidservant finished serving Aries. Once thetter was prepared to go to bed, the young maid, who had been assisting Aries since day one in the manor, bid her farewell.

    <strong>CLICK</strong>

    Aries let out a deep exhale as soon as she heard the click of the door. She gazed at it just to make sure it was closed before she copsed on the bed.

    "It''s a little exhausting," she whispered, arms spread on the bed, eyes on the ceiling. "But I''m slowly getting the hang of it."

    Acting as someone and staying in character the whole day was tough. Even when there wasn''t anyone looking, Aries would stay in character so there wouldn''t be slip up. Only at night time, when she knew no one would bother her again, she would tear down the mask she was wearing.

    ''If he doesn''t see me within a week''s time frame, I will have to force him.'' She nodded, having a meticulous n in mind if staying in her room wouldn''t work on Dexter. After all, she had already predicted that Dexter wouldn''t fall for that just yet. But she was being patient since she had to trust the process.<sub> </sub>

    Her eyes softened bitterly the more she thought about it. Right now, she was nning to deceive Dexter, who had done nothing wrong to her. And she would think about it so casually as if it was some type of project. Although it was harmless in a way, Aries was aware of her heart.

    "You''re slowly bing just like them, Aries." бк just like those people who would use other people for their best interest.

    "But then again, if I don''t do this, I will never attain the justice I seek." Aries breathed out, resting her arm over her eyes. "Just think about all those things they had done to you. Those atrocious deeds that until now haunt me... it''s a miracle that I survived all those years."

    There was a long silence in the room as she listened to her deep breaths. Aries would never forget. Even if she wanted to forget, that man (the crown prince of the Maganti Empire) made sure she would never forget him.

    "I need to be Danie. I am Danie. Aries died that day she fled her cage," came out a whisper, balling her hands into a fist as her jaw tightened. "Aries was long dead; they murdered her. Danie... she would enter theirnd and, like a parasite... slowly kill them from the inside. She would avenge me."

    The first time Abel proposed this n, Aries felt a little conflicted about it. It just sounded surreal for her. Well, why would Abel go against a powerful country just because of one person? Abel might be a crazy tyrant, but he wasn''t a nonsense ruler.

    He could be unreasonable and too yful sometimes, but this was a big decision for Haimirich. So Aries didn''t want to waste this opportunity.

    She didn''t want Abel''s people to shed blood in a war for her. She had a different n and she must seed, no matter what. That was the only way to save the imperial armies of Haimirich from marching to thatnd.

    "I''ll think about thatter after Dexter believes..."

    KNOCK KNOCK

    Aries trailed off, peeling her arm away from her eyes to the balcony. She propped her elbow to assist herself up, catching a raven knocking its beak against the ss.

    "Abel," she whispered and a subtle smile instantly dominated her face. Aries hurriedly flung her legs out of the bed to open the balcony and receive Abel''s letter.

    p It had been three days since shest saw him. But, every night, he would never forget to write to her. She stayed squatted down as she opened the parchment.</anda>

    [ Will you marry me? ]

    An instantugh slipped past her lips, gazing at the raven before stroking it. "Your master''s letters are the only ones that I look forward to everyday."

 Chapter 111 A Riddle

    "Try again tomorrow."

    Abelughed after reading Aries''s reply to the letter he sent her. Shaking his head as he raised the letter to show it to Conan, who was his tonight''spany. Isaiah was still recovering, so Conan had to keep the emperor busy.

    "Your Majesty, isn''t that another way of rejecting you?" Conan scrunched his nose up, growing numb in reading Aries replied at this point. He had seen them exchange letters during these past nights.

    "How was that a rejection if she''s telling me to try again?" Abel clicked his tongue and shook his head, staring at her handwriting once again.

    Seeing him stare at Aries''s letter as if it was the most precious thing in the world, Conan let out a deep. He peeled his eyes away from the emperor, leaning on the railing on the terrace connected to the emperor''s room. Apparently, Abel invited him for a ''slumber party.''

    Obviously, the meaning of that word to Abel was the two of them hanging out on the terrace. Abel was just toozy to walk from his office to his room; the emperor''s chamber, which was now his temporary collection room.

    "Your Majesty, the Coven is happening soon." Conan broke the ice as he nced at Abel''s side, who was sitting on the railing. "Will Lady Aries be alright?"

    "Why won''t she?"

    "Well... nothing, Your Majesty."

    Abel quirked a brow, side-eyeing his advisor. "Do you like Aries that much, Conan?"

    "Of course, Your Majesty. Lady Aries is... rare. And she makes you happy." Conan pouted as he nced at the emperor once again, catching the smirk on Abel. "Your Majesty, if you love Lady Aries, you shouldn''t obsess over her."

    "Why not?"

    "Because... too much is never good."

    "Huh..." Abel chuckled with his lips closed, gazing in the direction of the Vandran estate. "Conan, I don''t think you understand why Aries is special."

    "Pardon?"

    "Aries and I get along well because she... is like me." The side of Abel''s lips stretched into a bright smile as his eyes dropped. "No matter how many times she denied it, I''m certain she was aware of herself and her capabilities. Just a slight push, Conan, just a little push, and she''d get lost in the vast space beyond the line of insanity."

    Abel smiled brighter until his teeth were showing. "I want to push her just a little bit, a tiny bit over that line, and then watch her beg me to pull her back and save her." His eyes softened, but his chilling smirk remained. "Or perhaps she would pull me with her? I''m not sure. Therefore, she''s different because she can make me wonder."

    Conan pursed his lips while Abel cast him a knowing look. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, eyes ahead of where he could see the lights in the heart of the capital.

    "Your Majesty, do you n on telling Lady Aries about you?" he inquired out of in curiosity. "That you are an Original?"<sub> </sub>

    "I already told her... not much, though. However, my darling doesn''t seem to take my words seriously."

    "That is because it''s so hard to take you seriously."

    "Are you saying you never take me seriously?"

    "Of course not!" Conan gasped defensively, lying through the skin of his teeth. "What I''m saying is Lady Aries would simply consider your words as you jesting. You y too much around her!"

    Abel scoffed faintly as he smacked his lips. "She won''t know until she dies, Conan. I will not let her know what and who I am. Honestly, I find it refreshing I can talk about anything with her бк that includes my family on the maind. It''s so fun, to tell the truth, and not get treated seriously. It makes me look forward to the time I would be saying, ''I told you so.''"

    "But... what if she somehow figured it out? I mean, Lady Aries was spending more time with Dexter as we speak. Considering his desire for your demise, I''m certain he is cooking something on his sleeve."

    "You underestimate my darling so much, Conan." Abelughed and shook his head, finding Conan''s words so ridiculous to even consider it as a joke. "She''s the only person who brought me to my knees happily. But to answer your IF, I will simply cage Aries. Not the same cage just like what she had in the Maganti Empire, but the entire Haimirich will be her cage. Wherever she goes, I will conquer thatnd бк no matter how many, no matter how far."

    "You''d be surprised Dexter would love her just as much, or even deeper than how he loved his real sister," he continued.

    "And you''re fine with that?"

    "Of course!" this time, Abel''sughter grew louder. "Why wouldn''t I? That only means I can snatch his sister once again! Although I won''t kill her this time, since my darling is just mine."

    Abel was truly evil, Conan thought, but then sighed. Thetter didn''t even feel the slightest pity for Dexter for whatever was in Abel''s mind, or what happened in the very long past. They all had reasons back then, and Conan only saw it as Abel winning as always while Dexter losing in a fight the Vandrans had picked.

    "Your Majesty, howe you''re not flying to the Marquess estate? It''s been days since youst saw her. I''m a little perturbed." Conan inquired after the brief silence between them.

    "Hmmm... I wonder why," the Emperor crooned as he narrowed his eyes. "Right. That is because of a riddle, Conan."

    "A riddle?"

    "Yes. A riddle." Abel rocked his head lightly, and he took a deep breath to wee the fresh night breeze. "I had been mulling over Aries''s dream. Apparently, she was able to see me in herst dream and even had a conversation with me. Take note, her nightmares were simply the part of her memories; an experience that kepting back to haunt her."

    "Huh?" Conan furrowed his brows. "In other words, her nightmares were simply part of the past. So you''re part of that?"

    "Mhm." Abel slowly opened his eyes. "Until now, I don''t have an answer. Conan, what the hell was I doing in the past three years? Oh, never mind. I don''t have time to listen to that. But dig for information regarding the bravend of Rikhill and the royal family. I get the feeling you''ll find out something interesting."

 Chapter 112 The Words He Heard In The Past

    "Mydy, please get down there! It''s dangerous!"

    "Mydy, please be careful!"

    "The Marquess would be worried, mydy! Please get down!"

    Aries gazed down at the servants below the tree she climbed up moments ago like a monkey. It had been a week since shest saw Dexter. He didn''te to her to appease his sister, which Aries already expected. Thus, she didn''t have any option but to get his attention in another way.

    "Don''t worry! I won''t fall!" she yelled, grinning from ear to ear as she looked up. The servants were still begging her toe down, calling for some knight''s help, just in case. But Aries ignored them while enjoying the midday breeze.

    ''I used to climb trees back in Rikhill. The trees that grow in thatnd were far taller than this one,'' she thought, retracting her hand from the trunk to bnce herself on the thick branch.

    "Kyah! Mydy!!!"

    Aries quirked a brow as she heard panic below. Looking at the situation, she grinned.

    "I''ll jump!" she yelled giddily, causing even more panic from them. Aries chuckled and shook her head. "I''m jesting! I''lle down, alright? So, don''t worry too much..."

    "Danie!" Dexter''s voice pped like thunder, making her shift her eyes to him as he stormed toward the tree. "Come down there right this instance!"

    She frowned, the yfulness in her visage gone. "No."

    "Dan."

    "I won''te down unless you leave, Marquess." Aries voiced out coldly, even though she was just about to go down before he came. The servants, who had been there since the beginning, could not help but notice how her mood changed.

    "You..." he clenched his teeth, eyes bloodshot in anger.

    "Marquess, you don''t know this because you rarely visited me in that ce, but climbing this tree is a piece of cake. You don''t have to pretend you''re worried."

    There was a moment of silence in the surrounding. His hand slowly curled into a tight fist, expression dry as she peeled her eyes away from him.

    "Call for knights and bring adder бк no, bring someone to cut down this tree," came out a cold order, eyes fixed on the stubborn Aries standing on the tree branch.

    "Yes, my lord."

    As the servants bowed and executed the order, Dexter kept his eyes on her. Aries was ignoring everyone; she didn''t even look at them anymore. Just when he thought she would behave, she would pull something like this.<sub> </sub>

    Dexter ignored Aries even when he heard she barely left her room and was rebelling by eating less. Even the ''medicines'' for her to recover her strength, Aries would give the servants a hard time. He ignored everything because he knew she was simply trying to get his attention.

    But now, she took it to another level. If he didn''t see themotion here from the window on his way outside the mansion, he wouldn''t even know. The servants were trying to resolve this without letting him know.

    "My Lady, pleasee down, it''s dangerous," spoke the maid in worry, sping her hand together. But Aries continued to ignore them.

    "Danie,e down now. Then we''ll talk."

    "There''s nothing to talk about." This time, Aries responded. Her tone was a mix of mockery and bitterness. She gazed down directly at Dexter, unable to conceal the pain filling her eyes, fist against the tree.

    From Dexter and the few servants who remained under the tree, there were many things she wanted to say. However, she kept her mouth shut tightly. But her eyes were enough to speak thousand unspoken words. It was hard to distinguish whether it was real or a simple y pretend; even to Dexter since a person''s eyes never lied.

    "Why... do you only care when it''s a matter of life and death?" came out a quiet voice, but he heard her clearly, causing him to freeze. "When I''m ill, you''ll do everything and hire all the best physicians to cure me. But s, you''re never there to hold my hand when I need someone to hold me or rub my back when I''m retching everything that I ate."

    "I always made an excuse for yourck of visit," she continued bitterly, hanging her head low. "I did everything to get better, brother. Everything... do you know why I fought death? Every time it hurts and my body burns from the inside, I always held onto the thought of you. I can''t leave you behind all alone. If I died, who... would be with my brother?"

    "Mydy..." the servant бк Aries''s personal maid бк called in a shaking voice, eyes stinging upon listening to the bitterness in Aries''s voice. For her, Aries was someone who wasn''t that kind. Actually, thedy of the manor had always kept a strong front to others. But in front of Dexter, she would remove that strong front.

    The reason it was hard to dislike her was that Aries was only pitiful. A young girl who simply wanted her brother''s attention.

    Meanwhile, Dexter could not help but hold his breath as his heart thumped slower than usual. He knew Aries was simply trying to deceive everyone, including him. That everything she was spewing right now was all part of her n.

    However, her words and the expression in her eyes still got through him. It felt real. Or rather, those words sounded so familiar because, at one point, someone close to his heart spewed the same words in the past. The only difference was, the real Danie never showed her emotions like this.

    "Dan..." he muttered softly, spreading his arms a little. "Come down, please. We''ll talk."

    "No," Aries replied sternly. "What''s the point? I already promised that I won''t --"

    Just as Aries was about to argue with him, one step and she lost her footing. It wasn''t intentional; Aries truly lost her bnce as his vision suddenly zoomed in and out, causing her to lose her grip on the tree and fell down.

    "Danie!"

    "Mydy!!"

    CRASH!

 Chapter 113 Mission Complete

    Time seemed to stop for Aries as she reached her hand out, only to sp the air. The tree wasn''t that tall for Aries to die from the fall, but it could hurt and break a few of her bones. But that didn''t scare her.

    Amidst falling, her eyes dted from shock. Somehow, this unprecedented fall made her recall the taste of falling from grace. Just like this one, she was simply falling, sinking deeper to meet with the ground.

    ''No,'' was what came into her mind before time started clicking at its normal pace.

    <strong>CRASH!</strong>

    Everything happened so fast that Aries couldn''t prepare for hernding. Thankfully, Dexter was there to catch her, albeit he also stumbled down and ended up being her cushion.

    "Ughh..." she gritted her teeth, feeling a striking pain on her head as she hit it somewhere. Aries grunted, nting her fist on his chest to sit up. As she did, she opened one of her eyes, her gaze instantly catching Dexter underneath her.

    Drip... drip...

    She blinked, trying to get a clear view of him. The second her vision grew clearer, her eyes dted upon noticing the blood on his forehead to the temple.

    "Brother!" she panicked and herplexion made an immediate shift to pale. "I бк I бк" Her lips quivered, knowing it was her fault why he was bleeding. Her hands trembled, hovering over him but never touching him. So Aries ended up raising her head at the servant.

    "Call for help," she breathed out, barely finding her voice to speak. She didn''t even notice how the servant looked back at her with confusion and shock.

    "What are you waiting for?!" her voice thundered as her eyes turned bloodshot when the maid didn''t act immediately. "Call for help! The Marquess --"

    "Dan," called Dexter, holding her wrist to calm her down. When Aries gazed down at him, he could see the genuine worry and panic filling her eyes. She could fake everything, but her paleplexion was also the biggest sign she was also starting to believe her own lies.

    Not only she was trying to deceive him, but Aries was also convincing herself she was Danie. He didn''t approve of it, but it felt nice to have someone look at him as if he mattered.

    "I''m fine," he reassured, using his elbow to assist himself to sit up. Meeting her eye to eye, he raised his hand and wiped the blood on the space between her forehead and temple.

    "Call for a physician at once," he ordered to the servant, who replied that they already did. "I am fine, Dan."

    "What... but you''re bleeding!" she argued.

    "That''s not mine," he said under his breath, softening his eyes from her wound to her eyes. "It''s yours, not mine."

    "Huh?" Baffled, Aries touched her temple and checked her fingertips. Seeing blood on it, she raised her head once again and studied his charming face.

    "So, you''re alright?" she inquired, eyes scanning his face thoroughly. When she was certain the blood on his face was hers and only dripped down on him, she heaved a sigh of relief.<sub> </sub>

    A smile slowly turned up on her face as she patted her chest. "That''s good, then. I thought for a second you..."

    "Danie." She trailed off upon Dexter''s cold voice, staring at her with dark eyes. His jaw tightened, eyes piercing through her soul.

    "You''re the one who''s injured. What are you sighing in relief for?" his tone was crisped, displeased by herck of concern for herself. Aries hit her head against his tie pin, grazing it against the metal material holding the gem. Although he knew it wasn''t a grave injury, it was still a bad practice not to care for herself.

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips as he snapped his eyes at the servant. "Prepare everything for her wound. I''ll take her to her room," he ordered, refusing the knights who rushed to help Aries.

    "Brother, I --"

    "Shut up. Let''s talkter."

    With the help of the few knights and servants, Dexter carried Aries in his arms back to her room. She didn''t fight or argue with him, holding her hand while staring at the blood on her palm. She didn''t feel anything. That was why she didn''t mind it. Or rather, she felt the sting, but it was way more bearable.

    She went through worse than this. The slight pain... she could take it. She was used to it. Wasn''t that the reason Abel was going crazy for her? Not because she enjoyed the pain, but she found the beauty in her tolerance in it.

    The two of them remained silent even when they reached her room and heid her on the bed. The servants arrived no more than a minute after they did, bringing water and bandage to clean her wound for first aid while the physician hadn''t arrived.

    "Are you angry?" she asked, breaking the thickening silence in the room. Dexter told the servants to leave them while he tended to her wound himself.

    Silence. He didn''t answer, making her purse her lips, eyes up at him.

    "It doesn''t hurt... much," she muttered with a frown, fidgeting with her fingers, but nothing. He kept quiet the entire time until Aries finally lost reasonings and shut up. But when she did, Dexter finally spoke in his usual stoic tone with a touch of slight gentleness.

    "Stop it, Aries," he said, dabbing the cloth against the slice on her temple. "Danie isn''t like this. I wished she was, but she''s terrible, selfish, and greedy. I love her, but I also knew what kind of person she was."

    He paused, retracting his hand as he looked at her in the eye. "I know what you are doing, but you''re not fooling anyone here."

    Aries pressed her lips, staring at him straight in the eye. Dexter said all that, but... his eyes told her otherwise. He might be telling her the truth that the Danie she was portraying wasn''t the same as what he had in his memories. But that only worked for his advantage because this version of ''Danie'' was what he wished he had for her sister.

    "I''m not trying to fool you," she lied with a subtle and bitter smile, clipping her finger on his sleeve. "I''m not Danie. I''m not trying to be her. What I''m doing is something... I wished I had done to my brother."

    That wasn''t a lie, notpletely. For her, she didn''t mind treating Dexter as her own brother because, at some point, he reminded her of herte brother. The deceased crown prince of Rikhill.

 Chapter 114 His Warning

    "I''m not Danie. I''m not trying to be her. What I''m doing is something... I wished I had done to my brother."

    Dexter didn''t speak after Aries''s remarks as the physician also arrived shortly after. But even with the physician taking charge, Dexter remained inside her room and watched him do a quick check-up.

    Fortunately, Aries simply sprained her ankle, but no major injury had happened. The physician prescribed her an ointment and told her not to move around too much so she could recover quickly.

    "That''s all, my Lord. Lady Danie will be fine with enough rest." The physician reassured politely, standing across the bed, Dexter in the armchair.

    "I see." Dexter rocked his head, nting his palms on the armrest. "I''ll see you out."

    "Wait!" Aries perked up, catching their attention. "Please check on my brother as well. He caught me while falling. He might''ve hit his head or something."

    "Dan, I don''t need that," said Dexter indifferently while casting her a side-eye.

    She frowned. "I''ll walk around!" she threatened like a spoiled young miss. "I''ll walk around the entire house until my ankles are beyond repair if you don''t get yourself checked!"

    Her eyes zed, ring at Dexter while clutching the nket over herp. Thetter stared at her for a moment before a shallow sigh escaped his nostrils.

    "Fine." Dexter sat down on the edge of the mattress, knowing she wouldn''t be pleased if he let the physician check on him in his room. As he backed down, the physician for the House of Vandran for a long time nearly gasped in disbelief.

    This was the first time he hadid his eyes on Dexter''s sisters, but he was surprised that they didn''t resemble each other at all. But he had never seen Dexter back down to anyone; even the emperor ''couldn''t'' touch the marquess without second thoughts since he was the leader of the aristocratic factions.

    Perhaps it was just the hair, the physician thought. That Aries looked a little different from Dexter.

    "What are you looking at?" the Physician snapped back to the currentpse at the Marquess''s indifferent voice. "She will not believe I got myself checked if you don''t do it here."

    "Uh, yes, my Lord! My apologies."

    As the physician cleared his throat and prepared to check Dexter''s condition, thetter cocked his head back. His eyesnded on Aries, who was pursing her lips to suppress the smile that was tempting to resurface on her face.

    "Happy now?" he asked with a poker face. When that question flew out of his mouth, she couldn''t suppress the smile any longer.

    "Yes." she simpered while Dexter shook his head.

    "What a piece of work. Stop climbing on trees, you''re not a monkey."

    She pouted as her brows crossed. "I was fine until I felt dizzy."

    "More reasons you stop doing dangerous things, Dani."

    "It''s not dangerous," she mumbled, only to bite her tongue at his warning re. "Yes... I won''t do it again." But he still narrowed his eyes at her.

    "I promise, alright?! The next time I climb a tree, I''ll make sure someone will prepare a mattress underneath it!"

    "You''re not a monkey, Dani. No next time."

    "But it''s fun!" she frowned, shoulders lowering as she shrunk under his sharpening eyes. "I won''t climb on trees anymore, I promise. No ifs and buts, Sire."

    "Good."

    "It''s not like trees are the only thing I can climb."

    "Danie."

    Aries snickered mischievously as she moved her bottom closer to him. She tilted her head to the side to look at his side profile better, stretching her lips from ear to ear.

    "Brother, can I have my lessons in your study?" she asked out of nowhere, taking advantage of the situation.<sub> </sub>

    "No."

    "Please?"

    "Still, a no."

    "Aww..." her frown grew worse, batting her eyes adorably to get his slightest sympathy. "... please?"

    As the two of them conversed, the physician kept quiet all this time, a bit taken aback at the marquess''s patience. If this woman wasn''t his sister, Dexter wouldn''t have this long patience.

    Actually, it didn''t seem that Dexter disliked her stubbornness. If anything, he looked like he was enjoying it even when he kept his usual aloof facade.

    It was not a secret that Dexter had a sister, whom he protected from everyone because of her frail condition. But there had been rumors only recently regarding the recovery of his sister. Some believed it, others, especially those opposing parties, were questioning its legitimacy.

    If the physician didn''t witness their interaction, he would have doubts about Aries''s identity as well. However, questioning that now was in stupid. It was obvious if they looked at Dexter; they could tell he looked at her differently as if he would give the entire world to her. Not romantically; everyone could tell if they saw what the physician had seen.

    "Happy now?" Dexter sported a bored look after the physician, reassured he didn''t inflict major injuries aside from the bruises.

    "Yes."

    He sighed, seeing her satisfied with the result. "The maids will clean you up. Take a rest."

    "Alright." She nodded, biting her tongue to stop herself from speaking more. Still, he noticed,

    "What now?" he inquired annoyingly.

    "Will you join me for dinner?"

    Dexter scratched his temple with a finger before he nodded reluctantly. "I''lle backter, so you behave."

    His agreement brought a bright smile to her face; it made her look like a fool. All he could do was shake his head before he assisted himself up.

    "Later," he repeated as soon as he was up on his two feet. "Behave until then."

    "Yes!" Aries saluted, watching Dexter walk the physician out.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    "Marquess, you received a letter from the imperial pce."

    As soon as Dexter left Aries''s room, Gustav, the head butler, was holding a tray with a letter on top of it. Dexter quirked a brow, ncing at the physician before he waved.

    "Prepare more effective ointments so Dani''s wound won''t leave a scar," the Marquess ordered.

    "Yes, my Lord." The physician bowed before walking away, as that was his cue to leave.

    While he walked away, Dexter quirked a brow before epting the letter. He didn''t go to his office to read it as he immediately opened the letter with the emperor''s seal on it.

    <strong>[ The second time she bleeds for you, you''ll reunite with your dear sister. Fetch me. ]</strong>

    Dexter''s eyes glinted as the side of his lips curled up. Surely, Abel sent his fastest courier just to send a warning. At this point, the marquess was already used to Abel''s whims for sending letters that aren''t important.

    "How shameless," he muttered, reading Abel''s warning and request so he could sneak out of the pce through the marquess'' carriage. "Prepare the carriage. I''m going to the imperial pce," Dexter folded the letter and cast Gustav a look.

    "Yes, my Lord."

 Chapter 115 He Ended Up Saving Her From Another Hell, Unintentionally.

    "Your Majesty! When will you send proper official letters to your people?!"

    Just like any normal day in the imperial pce, Conan''s voice thundered across the emperor''s office. Moments ago, Abel used one of the official emperor''s couriers to send a letter to the House of Vandran. Everyone in the empire knew that when they saw a huge hawk flying, it was from the emperor.

    "Should I write the Marquess a poem, then?" asked Abel whilst tilting his head, hand holding a pen as he was finishing his work so he could see Aries early. "Why do I need to make my letters sound flowery when I can simply go straight to the point?"

    "Ugh... my headache." Conan pinched the bridge of his nose. Why was he even bothering to make Abel a proper emperor? Right... because his personality was just growing worse during every reign!

    "It''s not like Dexter will mind." Abel shrugged indifferently, setting his eyes back on the papers in front of him. "It''s a good time that everyone will be aware that I was showing interest in the marquess''s little sister. Isn''t it fun, Conan?"

    He paused as the side of his lips curled up, signing some documents. "In the past, I always fall asleep every time we conquer and. But this time, we''re preparing meticulously, not letting any slip-up, as if the Maganti Empire will stand a chance."

    Conan opened his mouth, but no words came out. So he simply shook his head and picked up a stack of the already signed documents on the desk, hugging them securely.

    "Your Majesty, I wille back once the marquess arrives," he excused himself with a slight bow, exhausted at how much he makes a fuss all the time, only to receive nonchnce from Abel. But just as he was by the door, Conan looked back when the emperor''szy voice caressed his ears.

    "I''ll receive the marquess in the sitting room. I hadn''t yed chess for a long time; it''s nice to get unnecessary things out of my head."

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    With that being said, Conan departed the emperor''s office, leaving him alone. Isaiah was still recovering, so Conan had to spend most of his time whining around Abel. Honestly, he was the one whining, but it was also him who was getting stressed for Abel''sck of interest.

    "I miss Lady Aries. I should hasten so I can be Lady Aries''s tutor," he muttered, getting impatient since they needed a good timeline so even when the people from the Maganti investigate, they wouldn''t find anything suspicious. Well, it was suspicious already, but not giving them solid evidence that the Danie who would be betrothed to their empire wasn''t Aries.

    <strong>*</strong>

    Meanwhile, Abel finished everything as fast as possible. He wasn''t joking when he said he could get things done, even with his eyes closed. He had been ying this role for a long time, so for him, he was simply reading jumbled letters, but everything was almost the same.

    "I''m bored," he muttered, leaning back to breathe. He closed his eyes, tilting his head back, watching his breathing.

    It hadn''t been that long when Conan left. He should''ve asked Conan to stay since his nagging was louder than the demons in his head.<sub> </sub>

    "I''m bored," he repeated, opening his eyes, gazing at the door. "I''m so... so... bored."

    He could still smell the lingering scent of Aries''s blood. Although all people''s blood had distinct scents and tastes, he would never forget hers. He wasn''t worried Aries was harmed. He had her with high regard and he was certain Aries was proceeding with her own ns.

    "She''s having fun, while I don''t." He frowned, thinking how unfair it was. He was stuck with these documents.

    Just then, Abel arched a brow as he twisted his neck to look at the window. He tilted his head to the side, blinking cluelessly.

    "That''s interesting," he crooned, pushing himself up to stand in front of the window. His eyes gazed ahead, far ahead, further than the horizon.

    "My... Aries," came out a dry chuckle. "You have another thing to thank me for taking you that night... or not."

    The side of his lips stretched into a smirk, eyes exuding with intrigue. Just now, from across the globe, something big was happening. Although Abel took Aries that night from that neutralnd where the world summit took ce, there was another reason Abel did so.

    He knew Aries would meet another man in the same ce бк a better person. Honestly, if he simply ignored Aries that night, her life would be different, but his life would remain the same.

    "You could''ve had a second chance in life, darling, or..." his lips stretched into something more wicked. "... or experience the same hell once again."

    "But what is for sure is it looks like I will be busy as well," he continued, chortling with his lips closed, eyes drooping until they were partially closed. "No wonder the council had been quiet recently. They were going to move soon. It took them quite a long time to gain some courage... don''t you think, Isaiah?"

    Abel slowly turned around and faced Isaiah, who was already inside the office without making the slightest sound. Thetter looked the same, sporting his ssic stoic face.

    "They had, Your Majesty. Will you reunite with your sisters?" Isaiah inquired solemnly.

    "Mhmm. I don''t think so." Abel peeled his eyes away from him, back to the scenery outside. "Teach everything to Aries. They would target her since she''s my darling. I would hate it if they used her life as leverage бк I might as well end that ind for all I care."

    Isaiah gazed at Abel''s back before he tilted his head down. "Yes, Your Majesty." When he raised his head, he added. "The Marquess'' carriage is close."

    "Great! I wonder what he''ll say once I ry the news to him!" Abel grinned happily, not really bothered at the forces lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect opportunity to take down an ancient creature like him.

 Chapter 116 IF

    "I''m simply doing this because she''ll be bored staying in her room for days."

    Dexter gazed coldly at Abel sitting opposite him in the marquess'' carriage. He had known even before heading to the imperial pce Abel wanted to hitch on the marquess ride home. Abel could simply fly, though, but he had to wait for the night to fall so no one would notice him.

    "Alright, whatever you say, darling." Abel shrugged yfully, slipping his finger to peek through the curtain. "I''m just amazed that you fell for her. My Aries is surely amazing."

    "Don''t you think she is far more amazing that you also fell for her tricks, Your Majesty?" Dexter inquired indifferently, eyes fixed on Abel. He was aware of Aries''s ns after mulling over it, and he evenmended it. It only showed how keen she was.

    Despite that, Dexter still stepped foot into her traps. Or rather, he was already in her traps and it was already toote when he realize it.

    Abel cast him a quick look after seeing they entered the gates of the House Vandran. "That is why I was confident in letting her in your territory."

    "This is rarer than the rarest. For you to regard someone so highly than yourself."

    "Of course, I do. If I don''t, who else would?" Abel tilted his head, smirking at the marquess. "Doesn''t that work for you, Marquess? You now want to believe Aries is your dead sister бк or rather, the sister you wish Danie was. Having me fawning over her only means she is protected at all times."

    "And having me as her brother only means when you''ve grown tired of her, she will live," Dexter remarked almost immediately, staring at Abel straight in the eye. "Isn''t that what you want, Your Majesty? For someone to stick with her when those people from your worlde to have your head?"

    There was a long silence in the carriage as both men stared at each other. One was smirking, while the other retained his cold front.

    "I don''t trust you. I will never do in this lifetime and the next. If she... Aries, died in that ce, I do not mind working with those people on the maind to bring you down."

    "Now... that''s some courage from a hunter turned into someone who is now hunted." Abelughed with his lips closed, obviously showing who was the viin between the two of them. "Sure, Dexter, dear. Do that."

    He leaned back, resting his leg over the other, eyes on Dexter. "You might as well fulfill your lifetime pledge to kill me."

    Dexter''s eyes darkened as Abel would stop at nothing to say whatever he wanted. A hunter turned into someone who was being haunted... right, that was the perfect summary of Dexter''s life.

    A man who was supposed to hunt all the creatures of the night had be one of them. All because of a certain man; this man who was sitting opposite him.

    "Someday, Abel." Dexter''s voice faded as he averted his eyes once the carriage stopped. "Someday, your demise wille on the day you do not expect. The Originals will fall one after another and thest vestiges of your n and race."

    After spewing those words, Dexter opened the door of the carriage and hitched outside. The carriage entered the back entrance of the estate, so no one would see Dexter returned with a guest with him. Meanwhile, Abel remained inside, staring at the shut door.

    "If," he muttered with a smirk, leaning back without a n to leave just yet. "If... they can even touch one of us, Marquess. We wouldn''tst this long if killing one was so easy."

    A glint flickered across his eyes as his smirk persisted. The look in those deep red eyes screamed with anticipation. He was looking forward to what his enemies had prepared for him.

    *****

    "Mydy, the Marquess had returned."

    Aries snapped her eyes and turned her head at Minerva, her personal maid, standing on the side of the bed. Since she couldn''t sleep, she killed time to read a book.<sub> </sub>

    "Did he?" a subtle smile appeared on her face, making Minerva smile in relief as well.

    "Yes, my Lady. He was asking about you when he did."

    Aries studied the relief in Minerva''s eyes, deciding to be a little kind since Dexter seemed to have acknowledged her. Moreover, there was no vestige of doubt left in the servant''s eyes, unlike the first time she came in here. A mission sess since she was starting to gain people on her side.

    "He did?" she smiled even more kindly, turning her eyes to the window. "Minerva, prepare me a good dress that isn''t so fancy but soothing in the eye. I would like to look at my best while dining with my brother."

    Aries furrowed her brows when she received silence from her personal maid. When she looked back at Minerva, she tilted her head to the side.

    "Mydy, you know my name?" asked the maid, only to gasp and cover her lips upon realization of what she suddenly inquired.

    "Haha..." Aries chuckled, shaking her head lightly. "How silly. Of course, I know the name of the person who serves my food and touches me. I was simply not in the mood the previous days."

    "Oh..."

    "Now, go." She waved lightly, setting her eyes back to the book on herp. "My brother is always busy. Don''t make me waste a second."

    "Yes, mydy!"

    Aries nced at Minerva as she hurriedly dashed towards the door to execute her orders. As she did, she could not help but smirk. Now that Dexter acknowledged their rtionship, it wouldn''t be too hard for Aries to be kind to others. They would just simply think it was because Aries and Dexter''s rtionship was getting better and so was her mood.

    "That''s quick," she whispered, trying to focus on her reading. "I wish I can tell Abel about this so we can celebrate."

    While waiting for Minerva, Aries nned to do more reading. But shortly after the servant left, the door creaked open.

    "Minerva, I told you to make it quick. But I doubt you this quick..." she trailed off as soon as her eyesnded on the person closing the door behind him.

    CLICK

    Her face brightened up as her heart fluttered at the sight of him. "You''re here?!" she eximed, about to jump out of the bed to run to his embrace. However, her ankle refrained her from doing so.

    "Yes, darling, I am here. I beat you brother in the game of chess and he gave me a ride." Abel stopped five steps away from the door, spreading his arms wide. "Hmm? Won''t you run to embrace me?"

    "Uh..." Ariesughed awkwardly, crawling to the side of the bed before she stopped. When she raised her head, she tilted her head to the side.

    "Won''t you jump and cuddle with me?"

    "No." He sported a smile that didn''t reach his eyes, gaze falling to the outline of her ankle under the sheet. "Why would I? Just in case you don''t know, I am not pleased, Aries. I am not pleased with what I am seeing and smelling."

    ''He''s pissed...'' she thought as she clicked her tongue. ''I''m doomed.''

 Chapter 117 Secret Affair

    "You''re angry?"

    Aries frowned as she bat her eyes innocently to gain his sympathy but to no avail. Abel simply tilted his head, standing in the same spot, hands on his hips.

    "Darling, you can''t hurt yourself, even for whatever reason. I can only hurt you because you live for me. Whether you bleed or die, you needed my permission for that." He raised his brows, sporting a knowing expression, rendering her speechless. "Now, why don''t you receive your guest properly? Can''t leave the bed?"

    Her frown grew worse, watching him cross his arms. The corner of his lips curled up into a smirk, studying her in delight.

    "The second reason is, I hate the fact that you cannot leave the bed because of another man," he intoned and shook his head as if she turned him to a cuckold. "I am utterly disheartened. What a foolish girl. So stupid."

    "Don''t make it sound like I was unfaithful," she mumbled, scrunching her nose up. "Do you really have to talk down on me like this? I sprained my ankle, but I got what I want."

    "What do you want?"

    "To be Danie."

    "To make Dexter believe you are his sister, huh?" Abel rocked her head in understanding, letting her think she was off the hook. However, even before she could smile, he looked at her dead in the eye.

    "Am I not on that list of what you want?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Have you thought of me when you considered the things you want?" he tilted his head, a misced wonder in his eyes.

    "..." Aries blinked, mind buzzing for a second. When was thest time she was in this type of situation with Abel? Although she was certain he was freer now around him, the menace of this man was something one couldn''t ignore.

    She let out a deep sigh as she smacked her lips. "I do think of you when I think of the things I want," she exined, to appease the angry wife. "But I can''t deny there were other things I think of when I think of that бк I mean, the things I want."

    This time, his expression grew worse. How awful, he thought. She should just lie because he would appreciate that even more than hearing the awful truth.

    "But you''re the first person whoes in my head when I think of the things or people I need," she added as soon as she saw his lips part, pushing his words back in his throat. "Not the kind of need for my own benefit, but the type of need that is essential to me. Abel is just as essential as the air I breathe. Without you, I''d suffocate and die."

    If Conan was here, she was certain he would give her money just to learn from her. Aries pursed her lips, raising her brows while looking at Abel with innocence in her eyes. She wasn''t joking, though.

    He didn''t react but blinked many times. "Say it again," came out a demand.

    "Yes?"

    "Repeat it. What you said, say it again."

    "Uhmm..." Aries cleared her throat, straightening her back, facing him squarely. "You are just as essential as the air I breathe. Without you, I''d..." she hesitated, seeing him tookrge steps until he was a step away from the bed. But he didn''t stop there as he raised his knee on the bed, crawling on top of her while she moved back until her back was on the mattress.

    "... without you, I''d suffocate and die," she continued under her breath, palm on his chest, staring at the menacing pair of eyes hovering over her.

    "I hear you." He grinned, biting his lips seductively. "Really?"<sub> </sub>

    He looked happy, she thought. No. He was happy, and he didn''t know what to do with it.

    "Really." The corner of her lips curled up in delight, d that something so simple ted him. Aries clipped his cravat, eyes holding his gaze fearlessly.

    "You''re that important to me, so I might go crazy if someone wants to steal my lifeline away."

    Oh, how he longed to be looked at like this. He wanted to drive her crazy so she would never leave him, ever. But she was also driving him insane. If only he could crawl his way under her skin, he would''ve done it already and without a second hesitation.

    His eyes drooped until they were partially closed. "Crazy is just what I want," came out a seductive voice, bending over ever so slowly. His eyes glinted when she slowly closed her eyes, making his smirk curl up dangerously.

    Abel bit her lips lightly, his body and weight covering her lean body frame. His hand snaked around her waist, making her arch her back to give him easy ess. As his tongue carefully slipped in between her lips, Aries wrapped her arms around his neck to deepen their kiss.

    It hadn''t been a week since theyst held each other, but they inhaled each other''s breath as if wanting to take each other''s breath away. As Abel raised her knee in between her legs up, he grinned against her lips.

    "Stop," came out a bashful whisper, knowing he would tease her about her sexual need with just a mere kiss.

    "I hadn''t said anything yet, darling." He chuckled into her mouth, but she bit his lip to stop him and pinched his back lightly. "Alright, alright, good riddance. I''m just ttered since you need me just as much as I need you."

    "You talk too much," sheined.

    "Keep my mouth busy if you hate it so much." Abel drew his head back slightly, sporting a yful smile. Staring at her flustered face, he could not help but bit his lips once again.

    Aries pressed her lips, as he surely knew how to tease her. "Come here," she pouted, fluttering her eyshes coquettishly. "Stop teasing me. I sprained my ankle."

    "What a hopeless girl. What do I do with you?" he clicked his tongue as he slowly bent over to im her lips once again and fulfill their needs. But just before their lips could make contact, a faint knock from outside caressed their ears.

    "Mydy, I''ve run you a bath and..."

    "Don''t enter!"

    Without even thinking, the frozen Aries pushed his chest away with all her might, taking him by surprise. Abel managed to prop his elbows against the mattress, stunned, eyes on her.

    "Go!" she whispered loudly, pushing him further while he tilted his head to the side. "What are you doing? Hide!"

    Appalled, Abel blinked twice and followed where she was pointing at. She was pointing at the side of the bed бк out of the bed opposite the door бк so the maid won''t see him. He couldn''t even argue or question her as Aries pped his shoulder and urged.

    "Now...!" she said almost in a whisper. "Quick!"

    In the end, Abel found himself lying on the floor beside the bed so the maid won''t see his <strong>''greatness.''</strong>

    ''Is this... what a secret affair is?'' he wondered, nk eyes staring at the ceiling.

 Chapter 118 Why Did He Need To Hide, Though?

    "Mydy...?"

    Minerva furrowed her brows as soon as she entered Aries''s room. Thetter''s face was red, as if out of breath. Her hair was also a little disheveled, just like the creases on the bed. Before Minerva came in, she had to wait for a minute because Aries told her not to enter.

    "Mhmm?" Aries raised her brows, clearing her throat as she shed her a smile.

    "Uh... I''ve prepared the clothes you asked for, mydy. Would you like to... are you alright?" asked Minerva, noticing the sweat on her forehead. "You''re sweating, mydy. Shall I open the windows for you so --"

    "Stop!"

    The servant, Minerva, halted from approaching the window. She looked at Aries, wide-eyed.

    "I..." Aries cleared her throat, scratching her temple. She needed to get a grip. Minerva wasn''t foolish to not notice she was acting out of character.

    "Mydy? Are you hurt somewhere?" asked Minerva worriedly, approaching the bed.

    A ding rang in Aries'' head at the servant''s inquiry. "No!" she replied strongly, keeping a brave facade as if to hide something.

    "Mydy..."

    "It''s nothing." She huffed and waved. "Help me out of the bed. I can''t let my brother wait for me for dinner."

    Minerva frowned, thinking Aries was enduring something but didn''t want to sacrifice a meal with Dexter. No one could me the maid for thinking like this since Aries had instilled that idea in their head.

    "Alright, mydy. Let me help you," she answered, assisting Aries so she wouldn''t strain her sprained ankle even more. With that being said, Aries sat on the armchair while Minerva brought three dresses for Aries to choose from.

    The maid didn''t bring up Aries''s health but made sure that thedy of the house wouldn''t strain her body. All the dresses Minerva brought were all pretty, but Aries chose the most modest one. Simple but elegant.

    After she picked a dress to wear, Minerva helped Aries wear it. They stood near the settee, so Aries could hold on to it to support her weight.

    They didn''t speak a word the entire time, but the servant noticed Aries''s difort. Minerva didn''t probe until she was done tying Aries''s bodice.

    "Mydy, would you like some tea?" she asked instead of suggesting to fix her hair. "We still have time before the chefs finish preparing dinner."

    Aries shook her head. "I''m fine. I''ll do my hair from here."

    "Mydy, forgive this humble servant for speaking. However, I am worried about you. If you are feeling unwell, please tell me and I will do my best to help you." Minerva mustered enough courage as she looked at her straight in the eye. "I won''t tell the marquess, mydy."

    Surprised, Aries looked at the servant, wide-eyed. Thetter''s eyes bore sincerity and concern, bothered that Aries was ''forcing'' herself to act strong. If only Minerva knew Aries was simply rattled because there was a man in this same room and he was the emperor at that.<sub> </sub>

    "I''m... just a little tired." Aries''s voice faded as she lowered her eyes, feeling a little guilty for deceiving Minerva. But she could only continue the act, knowing Danie hadn''t fully recovered yet. It was a good excuse.

    "Shall I bring you medicine?"

    Aries waved. "No need. I''ll just need a little rest. I''ll do my hair. Leave me and don''t let anyone enter my room unless it''s my brother."

    "Yes, mydy." Minerva bowed reluctantly before she helped Aries back to the bed.

    It wasn''t a surprise that Aries was stubborn. Trust wasn''t easy to give, even if she was Aries''s personal maid. Minerva could only hope that Aries could give her a little bit of trust over time.

    "I will be right outside if you need me, mydy." Minerva held her hand in front of her and bowed. Aries just waved without casting her a look before the former dragged her feet outside. When she was by the door, she nced at Aries once again and saw thetter massage her temple.

    Yet Minerva didn''t say anything and left the room without making a sound.

    CLICK

    As soon as the click of the door caressed Aries''s ears, she quirked a brow and nced at the shut door. She heaved a sigh of relief before crawling to the other side of the bed hurriedly. Her eyes softened as a subtle smile resurfaced on her face as soon as her eyesnded on the man lying on the floor.

    Abel arched a brow, hands behind the back of his head as his cushion. "Darling, if this isn''t what a secret love affair is, I don''t know what it is called."

    "I''m sorry about that," came out a soft voice, watching Abel sit up whilst crossing his legs. She sported an awkward smile. "Are you alright?"

    "Am I alright? Well, of course, I am. To be frank, hiding and trying not the be found out is something I had never done before. Who would have thought it will be this fun and thrilling?" His lips slowly stretched into an amused grin, staring at her eye to eye. Abel sitting leisurely on the floor while Aries had her hands and knees on the bed like a cat.

    "However, why do I need to hide, darling?" he inquired out of in curiosity.

    "That''s because..." Aries was unable to finish her sentence, blinking countless times as she also had to ask herself the same question. Abel came in here in broad daylight and with Dexter.

    Doesn''t that mean no one would question if they saw him in her room? Since he was an official guest of the manor? Therefore, there was no need for Abel to hide?

    ''Oh, my god...'' Her jaw dropped as realization hit her. She just pushed him and urged him to hide on instinct because Abel snuck inst time.

    Seeing her aghast expression, he could not help butugh. Abel cupped her cheek and leaned forward, nting a kiss on the apex of her nose.

    "How silly, you," he crooned almost seductively, drawing his head back while brushing her cheek with his thumb. "It was fun, though. So, it''s alright. Don''t frown, you''ll break my heart."

 Chapter 119 If I Am A Woman, Even I Will Fall In Love With Me.

    "If I am a woman, even I will fall in love with me."

    Abel shed Aries a smug grin, shrugging in arrogance while he brushed her hair. Aries sent Minerva out because she didn''t want Abel to be found out. She only realized how ridiculous her actions were until Abel pointed it out.

    "I will dye my hair," she breathed out, eyes on his reflection in the vanity mirror. "I can''t have green hair while my brother has golden ones. We already don''t look alike, so a little simrity is a must."

    "But I like your green hair." He frowned, twirling his finger around a portion of her hair up to his lips. "I''ll miss it."

    "It''ll return once I return here."

    "Now I''m even more sad. When will you visit me, darling?" he inquired, letting her hair fall to continue brushing her hair. "I kept asking Conan about your schedule, but he alwaysshes out at me. He''s so rude and very edgytely."

    Hearing news about Conan made her snicker. "Sir Conan needs to calm down. He needs to rx for a day. He keepsshing out at people and he''s quite scary."

    "No one understands my fear of Conan. I always walk on eggshells around him." A deep sigh slipped past his lips while shaking his head.

    "Don''t speak as if you fear him."

    Abel gasped. "Darling, do you think I wasn''t scared for my life? Conan scares the hell out of me!" he intoned and frowned, seeing that she didn''t believe him.

    "Whenever Conan is throwing a huge fit, his face always turns red. I''m scared his head might explode!" he exined, rendering her speechless for a moment.

    "This is why he is like this." Aries shook her head when she recovered. She carefully pivoted on her stool, holding his hand while looking up at him.

    "Be nice to Sir Conan, Abel. He might be like that, but he truly cares for you. He owed me a lot, but he still betrayed me for you." She squeezed his hand lightly. "I will visit you once I debuted into the high society. After that, we have all the excuses to meet. I''ll bring you some flowers and court you." She humored as this wasn''t the time for her to go in and out of the House Vandran. Everyone still knew she was recovering to full health.

    "Aren''t you the sweetest?" he smirked, brushing her cheek with his knuckles before putting the hairbrush away. "Although I''m warning you. I''m not that easy. You''ll have to work very hard to gain my sympathy and give you a moment of my time."

    Her lips curled up into a smug grin while he pinched her cheek.

    "You''re so cute," he praised, arching a brow as he twisted his neck to look at the door. Aries also turned her head in the door''s direction upon hearing it open.

    There entering Aries'' room was Dexter, bearing an air of nonchnce. Behind him was Gustav, pushing the trolley tray full of food. Aries tilted her body slightly to see if there were more people. But no one else was outside the door.

    "I greet the one and only shining sun of the empire." Gustav ced his hand across his chest, bowing politely to Abel.<sub> </sub>

    "Drop the formality, Gustav." Her brows rose when Abelughed and waved. "It has been a while since I''vest seen you."

    Gustav only sported a meek smile before he proceeded to serve the food on the table inside Aries'' room. Meanwhile, Dexter perched on the chair around the table, eyes catching Aries'' curious gaze.

    "Can you walk now, Dani?" he asked, ignoring the man standing beside her. "Come here. Let''s eat."

    "Won''t you invite me for dinner, Marquess?" Abel frowned, batting his eyes at Aries to gain her sympathy.

    Aries darted her eyes between Dexter and Abel for a moment before she sighed. Shemended Abel''s and Dexter''s tolerance for each other since ignoring each other has been the worse she had witnessed they had done so far.

    "Brother, can I invite my guest to join us?" she shed Dexter a smile while holding Abel''s hand so he wouldn''t have the ridiculous thought she was trying to leave him behind. "Please? I know the dinner should be just for the two of us, but he''s already here. Moreover, isn''t it good for our House Vandran to have a friendly rtion with His Majesty?"

    "Marquess, love conquers all. You can''t separate me from my darling." Abel teased, grinning from ear to ear, but Dexter didn''t even bother casting him a look.

    Dexter''s eyes were fixed on Aries'' face and her eyes which were full of anticipation. It seemed as if he refused, she would cry a river, even though Abel wouldn''t honor his opinion. Whether Dexter agreed or refused strongly, it didn''t matter since Abel would still join them.

    In other words, it wasn''t really Dexter''s call. But Aries genuinely wanted to do things right. She would honor his decision. If only he had the heart to disappoint her.

    "Whatever you like." Dexter waved and averted his eyes. But before he did, he caught her bright smile before she faced Abel squarely.

    "Did you hear that?" she inquired excitedly, tugging Abel''s sleeve.

    "Yes, darling. Thanks to you, I get to live today." His eyes squinted into mere slits, his energy syncing perfectly with her. "Let me help you, darling."

    "She''ll sit close to me," Dexter spoke just before Abel could carry Aries so she wouldn''t strain her injured ankle. "She won''t eat on yourp."

    "Huh?" Aries furrowed her brows, thinking that was quite a wild and ridiculous guess. However, when she turned her attention back to Abel, the side of her lips twitched.

    Abel frowned, his expression almost dead as if what Dexter said was just what he had nned. How could she forget who this man was? Of course, he wouldn''t mind eating with Aries on hisp. It was not like it didn''t happen before.

    "Abel?" she gasped in dismay, watching Abel roll his eyes.

    "Fine," he reluctantly agreed before carrying her to the chair near Dexter around the round table, while he perched next to her.

 Chapter 120 To Be His Concubine

    "Gertrude will assist Dani here so she can have someone she can trust."

    Aries raised her head, revealing the shock that was stered across her face after Dexter''s remark. They had been mostly eating in silence with Aries talking to Dexter and Abel from time to time, giving them equal attention so they wouldn''t have time pressing on each other''s nerves.

    "I already requested it of Sir Conan. Gertrude will act as Danie''s nanny. No one will question it." Dexter cast Abel a quick look before shifting his attention to Aries. "That''s my gift for you."

    "Brotherбн" a subtle smile turned up on her face, pleased to have someone she could trust and already knew her identity. Aries already nned to dye her hair alone, since everyone knew her green hair was in truth her natural hair color and she wasn''t simply dyeing it back to gold just as she imed.

    Gertrude''s presence here was very much appreciated. Hence, Aries was moved by Dexter''s consideration. Well, that was the main reason Dexter epted Abel''s invitation earlier today in the imperial pce. If not for that, he would have simply burned the emperor''s letter.

    "Thank you," she expressed while Dexter nodded slightly.

    "You''re wee."

    Abel narrowed his eyes as he watched Aries and Dexter act so familiar with each other. Although it was not something he felt threatened about, he presumed the marquess was purposely trying to make him feel left out.

    ''Should I kill Gertrude?'' he wondered, studying Aries, who was still talking to Dexter. ''Hmm. Maybe that''s a bad idea. She''ll get angry.''

    "What do you think, Abel?"

    Abel didn''t realize he was zoning out when Aries asked, eyes on him. "Hmm?"

    "Aren''t you listening?" she inquired, tilting her head. That was new. Abel never zoned out and even if he did, he would still somehow keep track of the conversation.

    "Is there something wrong?" she asked worriedly, facing him as she leaned in to check closer.

    Abel fluttered his long eyshes, sneaking a look at Dexter, who was ring daggers at him. Actually, it was not that he didn''t know they were talking about the banquet which the Marquess would host to introduce his sister. He just didn''t respond because he had nothing nice to say.

    But Aries mistook it as something else. Nevertheless, lucky him. Her attention was on him again.

    "It''s nothing darling." He sported an understanding smile. "I was simply wondering why the crown prince of the Maganti Empire hasn''t taken a crown princess until now."

    Aries froze and before she could react, Dexter already spoke. "You''re really good at speaking unnecessary things at the worst time, Your Majesty. That is quite a talent."

    "Oh, Marquess... Aren''t you daring? To speak so tantly to the sovereign of thisnd?" Abel smirked as he shook his head slightly. "Conan will be angry with me if I return without any helpful information. He scares me. Poor me."

    "Youбн"<sub> </sub>

    "Brother." Dexter trailed off when Aries called him softly, smiling with a reassuring smile. "It''s fine. I actually think it''s better to talk about these matters now since that''s the n, anyway. Once I debuted in high society, it is only a matter of time before a royal decree will knock at the door of the House of Vandran regarding my betrothal to another kingdom."

    Aries breathed out as she subconsciously sped Abel''s hand tightly for a split second before rxing her grip. She took another deep breath and cleared her throat, sitting with her back straight.

    "The reason why the crown prince of the Maganti Empire doesn''t have a crown princess yet is because of the world summit." She started, having both men''s attention on every word that was flowing out of her mouth.

    "The world summit?" asked Dexter with a raised brow.

    "Yes. The world summit happens every half-decade or decade. As you already know, the Maganti expanded their territory and gained power by using marriage as a strong political tool. To make the long story short, he was aiming to expand the power of the Maganti Empire and he was nning to use the title of the empress as leverage to gain a powerful ally once he seeded the throne," she exined in one breath, ncing at Dexter and then at Abel, who were both rocking their head in understanding.

    "That is quite smart," Dextermented before he cast her a curious look. However, he bit his tongue to refrain himself from satisfying his mere curiosity. Aries noticed it, though.

    "Are you wondering, if that is the case, why did he propose marriage to me?" she queried, pressing her lips as she forced a smile and lowering her eyes. "He proposed to me to be his concubine."

    "Not even a queen, but a concubine?" Dexter scoffed in mockery, grinding his teeth in irritation. He wasn''t affected before, but nowбн he might somehow find amon denominator with Abel after so long.

    "But darling, what I do not understand is, howe he took you to the world summit?" Abel inquired calmly.

    At this point, he was already angry and insulted enough that he couldn''t get any angrier. He could only be patient and hold this anger in until it was time. He would surely make thend of the aforementioned Maganti crown prince flood with red. Anything less would be uneptable.

    "Uhmбн" Aries darted her eyes at Abel, seeing him tilt his head, and then at Dexter, whose eyes were fixed on him. "Iбн gave him legal advice."

    "Hah!" Abel instantlyughed as he somehow guessed that had been the case, but he still asked anyway. Aries was smart, after all. It would have been a waste and the crown prince would have been in stupid to not recognize her brilliant mind.

    "In other words, that piece of garbage isn''tpetent enough, but neither is he in stupid." Dexter nodded in understanding, leaning his back against the chair after wiping the side of his lips with a white cloth. "Either way, his greediness will also be the reason he and his proud empire will fall."

    "I never thought I would ever agree with you, Marquess." Abel chortled in a low tone and with his lips closed. "We''ll take our time, darling. We''ll let them have a taste of falling from grace, slowly but surely."

    "They mustn''t die before theirnding," Dexter backed up with a nod.

    Aries pressed her lips, feeling conflicted while listening to these two. She felt like she was listening to two devils, teaching her how to be the bully. Either way, she could not help but smile, knowing their source of anger was that they wanted to protect her and get the justice she deserved.

    "Thank you," she expressed softly and from the bottom of her heart. There were no tears in her soft eyes, but they showed rity and determination.

 Chapter 121 Teach Her How To Poison Someone

    The dinner went well and somehow, Abel and Dexter didn''t argueбн that much. They still attempted to throw shade at each other, until Aries scolded them, Abel, to respect her brother and Dexter to show some decency towards her lover.

    Both men could only frown until the dinner ended. Dexter didn''t stay long after that since Gustav came to tell him about something important. Meanwhile, Abel stayed because, apparently, no one aside from Gustav and Dexter knew about Abel.

    In other words, Aries, who panicked and told him to hide, wasn''t wrong in making assumptions. Fortunately, Gustav ordered the servants not to bother Aries, so she could have some peace of mind while Abel was with her.

    Thanks to Gustav as well, Abel had a change of clothes. However, just like thest time Abel snuck inside her room, she woke up without him anymore. Still, he left her a note and a flower to appease her.

    That has been Aries'' life since then.

    In the morning, Aries would study in her own library or join Dexter in his office. They would also spend some afternoons having tea. Aries was still taking some medicine to recover her health, when in fact, those medicines were poisons. She still needed to strengthen her immunity for poison since her life would be in constant danger in the Maganti Empire.

    At night, Abel would sneak into her room every three or four days and embrace her in her sleep. If he couldn''t, he would send his raven, Morro, to ry his letters and flowers to her.

    After a month since she first arrived at the marquess''s estate, Aries already got used to this life.

    "Mydy." Aries smiled as she tilted her head, seeing Gertrude and Minerva''s shocked expression. "You lookбн stunning."

    "Mydy, although your green hair is pretty, your natural hair color suits you the best!" Minerva, whose rtionship with her has gotten better, eximed excitedly.

    Aries pursed her lips before she turned around to see herself in the mirror. She blinked at a constant pace, trying to recognize herself. Yesterday, the hair dye Dexter procured arrived and Gertrude helped her with her hair all morning.

    It was Gertrude''s idea not to let Aries see herself in the mirror until she was ready. Minerva only helped in dressing her up and arranging Aries locks so they would fall on her back elegantly.

    "I miss my hair," she whispered, touching the tip of her golden curls with a gentle smile. "It looks pretty."

    "That is because you are already gorgeous, mydy." Gertrude smiled warmly.

    "Gertrude is right, mydy. Whatever hair color you wear, everything will suit you." Minerva grinned excitedly, making Aries chuckle.

    KNOCK KNOCK

    "Mydy, this is Gustav. His Lordship summons you to join him in the greenhouse." Gustav''s voice caressed the threedies'' ears, turning their attention towards the shut door.

    "Perfect timing," Aries huffed as she looked at herself in the mirror once again. "I wonder what my brother has to say when he sees that my hair is the same as his."

    "He will surely be pleased, mydy." Gertrudemented and Minerva backed it up with a confident, "the Marquess will surely think you are lovely, mydy."

    "You two stop inting my ego! Help me. I''ll join my brother for tea."

    "Yes, mydy!"

    Minerva and Gertrude helped Aries, but she had to leave them to supervise the other maids who cleaned her room. Gustav led the way with Aries walking a step behind him.

    As they sauntered through the hallway, Aries could not help but stare at Gustav''s back. This man has always been at Dexter''s side. Even Abel knew the head butler. It made her wonder how a mere butler got recognized by the emperor?<sub> </sub>

    She wanted to ask, but Aries ended up keeping her thoughts to herself. Hence, she followed him in silence until they reached the greenhouse situated at the back of the vast estate, near the garden.

    "The marquess is inside, mydy." Gustav halted in the entrance of the greenhouse, stepping aside as he motioned his hand towards the door. "This is as far as I can take you. This ce is prohibited to everyone except the marquess and now you."

    Aries rocked her head in understanding before shing him a meek smile. "Then, thank you for leading me here."

    "It is my honor, mydy." Gustav also sported a kind smile, watching Aries enter the greenhouse.

    *

    When Aries entered the greenhouse, she flinched when the door automatically closed behind her. But she didn''t dwell on it as her attention was snatched by what was inside.

    She expected a morous greenhouse perfect for tea time. However, this ce had exceeded her expectations! A variety of flowers and nts could be seen all around; it looked like she entered an orderly jungle.

    ? "Dani, I''m here." Aries snapped her eyes when she heard Dexter''s voice from a distance. She looked around, only to see his shadow not far away.

    "Don''t touch anything," he added in azy voice as she walked in his direction. "Everything in here is poisonous. Some nts will kill you instantly."

    Her steps halted for a second, her eyes dting. Once again, Aries looked around. Unlike her opinion earlier regarding the unique beauty of the nts and flowers, she couldn''t help but look at them with fear.

    "They won''t harm you unprovoked." Dexterughed, walking back to see her freeze on the spot. He was holding a bottle and a dropper, the string of his spectacle dangling to his side.

    "Just don''t touch them."

    "Brother, you have a greenhouse full of poison?!" she gasped as she resumed in her stride, standing at his side. Her eyes then fell on the bottle and dropper in his hand before they shifted to the nt pot before him.

    "What''s that?" she blurted out.

    "It''s a nt." She frowned at his reply while he chuckled yfully. "It''s a type of poisonous nt that can make people hallucinate and fall asleep."

    "Ohhбн" Her lips formed an O-shape, eyes back to the nt. "What are you doing with it then?"

    Dexter smiled as he put down the dropper to close the bottle. "I am extracting its poisonous substances from itбн" he exined and cocked his head when he finished closing the bottle.

    "See?" he raised the transparent small bottle, showing the paltry amount inside. "This is poison."

    "Is it deadly?" she asked and then exined why she asked such a ridiculous question. "I mean, you said its effect is to make people sleep and hallucinate. You didn''t say it''s deadly."

    "If you drink this directly, it will kill you in an hour or a maximum of five hours. However, if you mixed a drop into a person''s drink or food, it is not," he exined.

    "Come. Let''s sit down while I teach you how to poison someone."

 Chapter 122 I Think Thats Beautiful

    "Come. Let''s sit down while I teach you how to poison someone."

    Aries puffed her cheek as she followed him, keeping her hands inteced behind her back, afraid she would touch something. A small space not on the corner had a set of intricate marbled tables and chairs. Dexter pulled out a chair for her on which she sat down after expressing her gratitude.

    "So, it''s really true that you have a vast knowledge of poison?" she inquired, watching him sitting opposite her while he reached for the trolley tray that had a set of tea on it.

    "Yes." He answered, serving the tea and different ?small bottles.

    Aries remained silent, letting him finish setting up what seemed to be a dreadful poison testing. She hoped, deep down in her heart, that she was wrong. But a huge part of her was already convinced that was his n.

    "As I''ve mentioned, the contents of each bottle contain substances that can kill," he said once he was done arranging the bottles between them, reaching for the teapot to pour a cup.

    As he did, he continued:

    "Some can kill instantly, some will take days. There have been many practices on how to detect poison and food testing is the most straightforward way," he continued, filling the cup less than half full. "But now, there are new poisons that keep appearing that are deadly as well as undetectable. There are types of which only a small amount needs to be digested every day for a slow and painful death."

    Aries blinked innocently as she tilted her head to the side. "Brother, I don''t understand why you''re telling me all this. I mean, I don''t n on assassinating ''that'' person by poisoning him."

    "I know." Heughed, sliding the cup to her and then poured the empty one for himself. "Assassinating him by poison is mercy, he doesn''t deserve that."

    The faint ng of the bottom of the pot against the marble rang in her ears, eyes locked with Dexter''s. The space between her brows furrowed when Dexter checked the bottles.

    "The reason I am telling you this is first, by drinking non-lethal amounts of poison, you are developing a tolerance. However, that doesn''t ?mean you''re safe. If you ingest a strong poison orrge amount of poison, it might trigger all toxins in your body and kill you faster than in a blink of an eye." Dexter added a drop from the small bottle into one teacup and then slid it to her. "Second, poisons are not only for killing. Have a taste."

    Aries narrowed her eyes as she darted her eyes between the two cups. Dexter didn''t pour anything in the first cup, but her gut feeling told her it was already poisoned.

    "Do I really have to taste them?" she asked warily.

    "Do you think I will kill you?"

    "Of course not! It''s just the amount of poison I''ve been ingesting as ofte has increased significantly. It makes me dizzy. So Iбн" Aries trailed off when Dexter arched a brow, not buying herme excuse. She sighed. "Fine."

    As expected, Aries picked up the first cup since she wanted to think it was safe. But just as it was near her lips, she stopped and furrowed her brows. Instead of sipping, Aries pulled it back and stared at the cup.

    Dexter smirked in satisfaction. "That''s right. The tea isn''t poisoned. The cup is. Great instinct."

    "Wait, howбн"

    "Dani, drinking poison every day and getting exposed to it gives you some sort ofбн familiarity." He leaned an arm against the edge of the table, cocking his head at the other teacup. "Try that one."

    Just as he instructed, Aries put down the cup to take the other. She twirled it lightly, sniffing its aroma before taking a sip. Her eyebrow raised.

    "It tastesбн good." She licked her lips as she put down the cup. "Is it poisoned?"

    He nodded. "It is, but the toxins in your body can neutralize it. Dani, think of it like this: you are slowly bing poisonous yourself."<sub> </sub>

    Aries held her breath as she listened to him, eyes holding his pair of solemn eyes. He tapped his knuckles against the table lightly, letting her process his words.

    "Have you wondered why Gustav didn''t enter this greenhouse? The servants are prohibited toe here, except for Gustav. And yet, he doesn''t enter this ce. You''re smart, so you must''ve guessed it already."

    "Because the air in here is toxic."

    "That''s right." He nodded and knocked on the table. "If you haven''t been exposed to poison or you don''t have an antidote, the air in here alone can kill you. Not instantly, though. However, you haven''t noticed it since you''ve been ingesting poison even back in the imperial pce."

    "Thing is, the poisons served to His Majesty are all powerful and strong. That is why you nearly died when you first ingested a small amount of it," he added, making Aries knit her brows.

    "Does that mean His Majesty is like a walking poison?"

    "He is, Dani." Her already knitted brows creased even more before a certain memory resurfaced in her head. Now that she thought about it, during her first meeting with Abel, the soldier who was strangled by Abel flushed in a violet color faster than usual.

    "Then, if that is the case, howe I didn''t die whenбн" she trailed off, biting her tongue to stop herself from asking him something so embarrassing. But even with that, Dexter already got the gist of her question.

    "Antidote. He is feeding you an antidote, else you would''ve died." He shrugged indifferently. "My entire point here is, learning the art of poison will help you survive in that ce. Also, the most important part of all is, I won''t let him touch you."

    "Pardon?"

    "Once you get betrothed to that piece of garbage, there will be marital duties that must adhere," he stressed, eyes glinting dangerously, filling with unspeakable contempt. "Although I hate the fact that your taste in men is lower than the depths of hell, I won''t let that man sully my sister."

    Aries bit her inner lips before she murmured. "I don''t have low standards."

    "When you embraced that detestable lover of yours willingly, that only proved you have very questionable standards." He scrunched his nose up, trying to hide the criticism in his eyes but failed miserably. "What did you even see in him? His face?"

    "You''re being too much, brother. I cannot deny that Abel has a very handsome face and he''s crazy."

    "If you know, why?" he probed just to get enlightened on why she was so crazy about Abel.

    "Becauseбн" Aries pressed her lips, lowering her eyes before they softened. "Because Abel doesn''t see his future with me."

    "Huh?" бк now that was even more confusing for him.

    Aries chuckled seeing the inexplicable expression stered on his face. She took a deep breath and stared at her reflection in the teacup.

    "Many people like those who see their future with them. Abel is different. He doesn''t see his future with me. Thus, he holds me and looks at me? every day like it was thest time." When she raised her head, a bright smile was dominating her face. "And I think that is beautiful."

    Dexter frowned andughed shortly. "That''s not beautiful, it''s dumb."

    "Don''t judge." She chuckled and huffed.

 Chapter 123 Tea Time

    "So? What do you think?" Aries tilted her head to the side with an excited smile stered across her face. Across from her were Gertrude and Minerva, who were tasting the tea Aries brewed herself.

    "Mydy, it''s really good." Minerva grinned, blushing as she felt honored sitting across from Aries and drinking the tea Aries personally brewed.

    "I agree, mydy. You''re getting better at brewing tea." Gertrude nodded, exchanging looks with Minerva. "We''re certain many nobledies will want to ept your invitations to tea parties."

    Pleased, the side of Aries''s lips stretched from ear to ear until her teeth were showing. Her eyes lowered at her cup of tea, picking it up to her lips.

    She looked at the twodies over the rim. "I hope they do," she replied, sipping from the teacup modestly before cing it back on the saucer.

    As soon as the bottom of the teacup hit the saucer with a soft click, her smile curled into a smirk as a thud reached her ears. She snapped her eyes up at Gertrude and Minerva, both unconscious on the long settee.

    "How long did it take before they lost consciousness?" she wondered, checking the pocket watch hidden underneath the cushion on the divan she was sitting on. "That''s not bad."

    It had been almost two weeks since Dexter started teaching her the art of poisoning and the different types. She was slowly getting a hang of it and had started experimenting. Today, she tested it out on Gertrude and Minerva.

    "It''s not deadly, though," she muttered while she pushed herself from her seat and marched towards the two. She ced a finger on their upper lip to check their breathing.

    Aries nodded in satisfaction upon confirming they simply lost consciousness just as she expected. She took a deep breath, nting her hands on the backrest of the settee Minerva and Gertrude were sleeping on.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered with another sigh, darting her eyes between the two. "I just had no option. This amount of poison can''t kill me, so I need test subjects. My brother is also immune to poison and Abel is out of the question."

    All she could do was shake her head lightly before she pivoted on her heel. Aries then walked towards the window, standing in front of it.

    "Tomorrow is the banquet my brother is hosting," she murmured, eyes glinting dangerously.

    That was all that passed her lips, but her eyes spoke a thousand unspoken words. After tomorrow, everything would proceed as nned. Although it would take some time before her official betrothal with the crown prince of the Maganti Empire, since Abel was dying it, time was fleeting.

    The memories of the day she met Abel for the first time still felt vivid. The time she had to tremble and tread on eggshells around the man in question. It was as if everything happened just a week ago, the reason she wasn''t wasting a second in absorbing all the knowledge she could.

    "Danie will win everyone''s heart in Haimirich and Maganti," came out a determined whisper, jaw tightening at the thought of stepping foot in that damned empire. "After tomorrow, I shouldn''t waste any more time."<sub> </sub>

    Aries closed her eyes and when she opened it, the contempt dominating it faded without a trace. As she gazed outside the window, she could not help but see her own faint reflection in the ss.

    She looked different now, unlike the first time she came to Haimirich. Before, she simply looked like an aggressive and wounded cat. Nowбн she looked like a tigress. She couldn''t take all the credit since she also had to thank Abel for giving her such an opportunity.

    She had always known she needed help if she wanted revenge. Although it wasn''t in her n to ask for Abel''s help, she had always known she couldn''t do it on her own. She would never have seeded.

    "I should also visit him after I debuted." She nodded, thinking that she wouldn''t see Abel if thetter didn''t visit her. Once she debuted, she had a lot of excuses to visit the imperial pce. One of them was visiting Dexter since he regrly went to the pce a few times a week.

    Aries crossed her arms as she heard a faint knock on the door before it creaked open. Usually, Gustav would wait for her permission to enter, but Aries ordered him earlier today toe to her room.

    "Mydy, Gustav has arrived." He ced his palm across his chest and bowed politely. His eyes caught the two unconscious servants on the settee.

    "Gustav, will they know I knocked them unconscious?" she inquired without casting him a look.

    "No, mydy." Gustav straightened his back, crossing his hands behind it. "The drug you used will give them a false memory of what they did during the day, albeit it will be a blur."

    Aries nodded as Dexter also exined it to her. Apparently, the drug she used had properties to fill the memories of the person that consumed it. Although it could also backfire on her if it was used recklessly.

    For instance, Minerva and Gertrude had their world revolving around serving Aries. So, their life was following a strict routine. After they woke up, they would remember serving Aries like usual.

    However, those who had different routines or had to deal with different important matters daily would notice that something was wrong. It would be very difficult for her if her target would get suspicious.

    <o>,m "I seeбн" Aries carefully peeled her eyes away from the window as she turned around to face Gustav. This man knew most of their secrets, so Aries didn''t feel the need to act like a saint. Dexter trusted him and Abel vouched for him that he was trustworthyбн except that Abel couldn''t truly trust the butler since, well, only the crazies liked Abel. Aries was first on the list.</o>

    "Please take them to their room. You know what to do, am I correct?" A smile turned up on her lips but didn''t reach her eyes.

    "Yes, mydy."

    "Thank you." She waved before facing the window again, eyes sharp and menacing. "It''s good to let them rest early for today since tomorrow will be a big day."

 Chapter 124 The Debut Of The Noblest Woman In The Continent

    It was no secret that the House Vandran held a fortune that was ''equal'' to the royal treasury of the empire. With countless businesses across the continent, said noble family stood only second to the emperor in terms of power.

    Dexter Vandran was the only person in the empire who could oppose Abel and get away with it. That was the reason there were only two sides to choose from in this ce: the Imperialist or the Aristocratic factions. There was no middle ground.

    That was also the reason Dexter was one of the most sought-after bachelors of his generation across the continent. Manydies never failed to dress perfectly to catch the marquess''s eye and gain unimaginable influence through the Vandran name alone. Men, on the other hand, would either sing praises of his name or see him as a threat to their political power.

    Either way, Dexter wasn''t the main highlight for tonight''s banquet. In this morous banquet hall, attended only by those essential in the upper echelon and the middle-ss nobles, they had only one thing in their mind.

    Tonight''s event was all about the marquess'' beloved sister. Some guests from the opposing parties simply attended to see if the cunning marquess truly nned to introduce his real sister, or if it was simply part of a bigger scheme. While others looked forward to seeing the talk of the town ever since the rumors of her return to the capital and recovery had spread in the high society like a wildfire.

    Danie''s name had been brought up at every tea party and banquet. Hence, she had been a target for either men wanting to affiliate with the Vandrans'' and women wanting to get close with the marquess through his sister, whom he cherished dearly.

    Amidst the morous atmosphere that seemed to sparkle just like the huge chandeliers dangling from the ceiling apanied by lovely waves ofughter and chattering, everyone''s eyes screamed with hunger and their not-so-hidden agendas.

    ? "The Marquess Vandran and the Lady of the manor are now enteringбн!" A knight announced and despite the chattering filling the enormous banquet hall, they heard his voice loud and clear.

    Everyone was paying attention.

    The noises slowly subsided, and all eyes moved to the entrance. Women hid behind their fans, eyes prating the shut door. Men stood proudly, anticipating what sort of princess the marquess had hidden from everyone''s eyes.

    CREAKбн

    Golden hair that was akin to the first peek of the sun in the morning reflected the warm sparkle of the chandeliers. A pair of sharp olive eyes that were akin to the first day of spring gazed at the owner of the pair of deep green that looked like the guardian of the calm and magical forest.

    Aries held Dexter''s hand barely, fingers flicked to highlight her clean and beautiful nails. The azureces of her dress matched perfectly the shade of his cufflinks.

    What a pair, was what instantly came to everyone''s mind at the sight of them. Despite that, the two didn''t share so many simrities in their facial structure aside from their distinct golden hair and a simr shade of eye color, no one doubted their rtionship.

    Aries wasбн stunning. They both were.

    The mes behind the men''s eyes, which were ignited just at the sight of her, were enough proof that her beauty was surreal. But more than that, both Dexter''s and Aries''s confident aura were enough to speak volumes.

    And when she smiled modestly while gazing at him, she was breathtaking. No one had seen Dexter smile genuinely because he always kept a stoic front, but when he did, although faint, the subtle gentleness in his eyes was enough to make everyone envious of her.<sub> </sub>

    For a man who had never batted an eye at women, the way he gazed at Aries was the biggestpliment of all. Well, now it was clear to everyone. The reason Dexter never batted an eye at other women was that he was used to seeing a goddess incarnate.

    When Aries and Dexter stopped in the middle of the banquet hall, silence descended on the entire venue. Some held their breath, darting their eyes between the two, while others looked at the pair approvingly.

    "Ladies and gentlemen," spoke Dexter with his attractive baritone voice, eyes scanning the crowd surrounding them. "I would like to express my gratitude for attending this very special night and celebrating the debut of my sister, who is very close to my heart."

    A subtle and formal smile dominated his face, studying everyone''s energy. Even within just a few seconds, he could feel everyone''s interest. His guests were staring at them as if they were staring at their prey, but that was just what he wanted. It only meant they acknowledged Aries.

    His sister was different, after all. She would stand out everywhere she would go.

    Dexter smiled proudly at the thought, shifting his eyes to Aries, who stood by his side. She nced at him and smiled back elegantly.

    "Allow me to introduce my sister, the reason we have gathered tonight and brought unity within our hearts, even just for the night." He peeled his eyes away from her as he set them at the crowd, motioning his hand in Aries''s direction.

    "Danie Circe Vandran."

    Aries took a step forward, keeping her reserved smile and rity in her eyes. All her movements, her smile, how her eyshes fluttered, the way her fingers flicked were watched very carefully.

    "Allow me to express my gratitude for gracing our House with your presence tonight. Our House Vandran would surely remember your warm reception." Her voice was soft and soothing as if the Heavens itself yed a lovely tune to give justice to it.

    Nowбн that woman was undoubtedly fit to be the noblest woman on the continent.

    She had it all: wealth, status, and beautyбн and she exceeded in all of them, raising the standard to a level one would only attempt to reach whilst risking their life of falling.

    ***

    "Wowбн Lady Aries came out strong. I''m so proud of her!" Conan whistled, standing at the railings of the emperor''s room. They were watching everything unfold from a distance.

    He gazed at Abel on instinct. Thetter was leaning against the railings with a smirk stered on his face.

    "How nice," Abel whispered dangerously. "I would''ve scooped out their eyes if not for the fact it will be me, my name, she will be screamingter."

 Chapter 125 The More Corrupt You Are, The Better.

    Aries grinned and bit her lower lip to stop herself from grinning like a fool. Walking through the hallway to her room with her hands on her back, her mind drifted to her sessful debut.

    The banquets in the empire and Rikhill were very different, but the attitude of the people was almost the same. Although Aries was surrounded by good people in her home country, ambitious people were everywhere. It was a good thing she already knew how to socialize back then.

    It only made it better with Dexter''s obvious affection for his sister. Hence, everyone also wanted to curry favor with her.

    If this had happened back then, Aries would have taken it as an insult, since she didn''t want to live a life in anyone''s shadow. But the situation was different now, and she needed to adjust andpromise.

    "It''s a sess," she whispered, gazing ahead at the empty hallway with a bright smile before she chuckled once again. Ladies in the upper echelon hinted to her they would be sending invitations for a tea party soon, which would be good for her to have her own connections and strengthen her power in high society.

    Meanwhile, men had a hard time approaching her since Dexter guarded her without even trying to conceal that he was an overprotective brother. And it wouldn''t be a surprise if marriage proposals that kepting to the House Vandran for Dexter multiplied now as his sister made her debut.

    Overall, her hard work was slowly paying off. No one questioned her rtionship with Dexter and she immediately won the hearts of many powerful men and made acquaintance with influential women.

    "You seem to be in a good mood." Aries flinched when Abel''s familiar voice caressed her ears from ahead. She stopped, eyes gazing at his crossed legs, wandering up to the bewitching smirk on his face.

    Abel was leaning against the jamb of her room, arms crossed. She looked around on instinct before skipping her step to him when she was confident no one was around.

    "Now I''m in a better mood," she humored, standing on his side, leaning her face forward, hands on her back. "I thought you''d be attending."

    "Apparently, I didn''t receive an invitation." His brows rose, showing nonchnce at Dexter''s action.

    "You''d still attend if you wanted to, though." She narrowed her eyes, ring at him with a pout, knowing his personality.

    The corner of his lips curled up as his eyebrow arched. He unlinked his arms, tilting his head while sliding the back of his finger, tracing her jaw.

    "Darling, did you think that if I were thereбн anyone could stop me from dragging you away for all of them to see?" he gazed with his eyes glinting dangerously, screaming his desire to dominate, to monopolize her, and let the entire world know Aries was his alone, no one else''s but his.

    Aries lowered her head as he leaned forward to whisper into her ear. "I don''t think so, love. Even if you''d asked, I''d have rather touched you right then and there just so they''d have stopped any silly thought of you." He then bit the tip of her ear, making her tilt and wince slightly.

    "Are you angry?" came out a soft inquiry, hands on his hips, gazing up as he drew his head back.

    "Darling, why would I?" he cocked his head, feigning innocence.

    Aries blinked twice while studying his face. After several seconds of just staring at him, she stood on her toes and nted a soft peck on his lips, eyes closed. His irises dted before his eyes softened at the warmth of her lips.

    Abel wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her body against his. His eyes slowly closed, basking in the sweetness and softness of her lips.

    He wasn''t angry, per se. It wasбн anxiety. Aries looked like she had fun at the banquet even without him, and he couldn''t help but wonder if she had thought of him even once during the entire time. It felt nice that her first question was something about his absence and then made him feel as though his thoughts mattered.<sub> </sub>

    "Better?" she panted as they broke their passionate kiss, raising her head with eyes bearing rity of what she wanted: his peace of mind.

    Abel brushed her flustered cheek with the back of his hand. "You should definitely marry me."

    "Is that an order, Your Majesty?" She smiled yfully, wiggling her brows.

    "Of course not," he lied through his teeth, leaning his face in a bit. "I am asking you nicely like a gentleman would."

    "That is not how you ask for ady''s hand in marriage."

    "Hahбн very well, forgive this gentleman if that came across as rude."

    "Forgiven." She shrugged, suppressing her giggle by biting her lips.

    "How kind."

    "Well, how can I ignore this gentleman''s sincerity?" she winked, slipping her arms over his shoulder. "Shall we go in?"

    He smiled. "Unfortunately, I cannot stay for the nightбн" he trailed off when sadness flickered across her eyes for a split second.

    "Ohбн is that so?" Aries hid her disappointment with an understanding smile while he arched a brow.

    "Stay," he said, causing her forehead to crease. "That''s all you have to say, darling, and I will. You don''t have to act as if you''re an understanding person. The more corrupt you are, the better."

    Aries frowned before a muffled voice came out of her mouth. "Stay," she averted her eyes. "I have many stories to share and I need an ear." бк these were her honest thoughts when he mentioned not staying for the night.

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed. "Happily." He brushed the tip of his nose against hers, but her frown remained as she drew her head back.

    "Don''t leave early in the morning too," she demanded, eyes fixed on his pair of rubies. "I want to wake up next to you. You''re so mean to leave before I can even say my morning greetings."

    He tilted his head to the side, blinking cluelessly, and before he could speak, she continued;

    "I won''t take no for an answer."

    "Will you listen to that?" he chortled, pulling her waist closer, eyelids shutting until they were half-closed, revealing a dangerous glint in his eyes she knew so well. "You really know how to mess with my head, darling."

    "I''m not messing withбн youбн" Aries shrunk, words drifting back to her throat as he bent over to im her lips.

 Chapter 126 Flash Them A Smile

    Abel carried Aries, the woman who just became the most desired woman in the empire, to her chambers to im her. It may sound like it was an act of inting his ego to have and hold the woman others could only stare at from a distance, but he didn''t care.

    Kicking the door, he sucked her breath away and deepened his kiss whilst closing the door with his foot. Aries clutched his shoulders tightly, breathless as his hungry kisses, fighting for dominance, forced her to submit.

    Before she knew it, her back had already hit the mattress. She panted for air as he drew back to adjust their position, removing his tie pit, eyes burning deep into her soul.

    "Abel, wait, Iбн" her eyes dted when he suddenly grabbed the lower half of her face, covering her lips without gentleness, but at the same time, not enough to hurt her.

    "Not a word of negotiation, Aries," came out a condescending voice, eyes darkening despite his attempt to sport an innocent look. "Unless you don''t want the bed, then I do not mind proceeding with what''s inside my head."

    Abel cocked his head to the side, fluttering his eyshes ever so tenderly. He wanted to make love to her just like the way she wanted first, before doing it his way. However, this growing sense of desire for a stronger reassurance was sinking deeper in his corrupted soul.

    It was eating him from the inside.

    Her reassurance was enough, but he was thorough. When the corner of his lips curled up into a condescending smile, her breath hitched.

    "I changed my mind," he said under his breath, pulling her wrist up. "Get up, darling. Let''s breathe some fresh air."

    All she could do was get dragged by him, speechless and appalled. He opened the doors connecting to the terrace without a second of hesitation, pulling her in until she was in front of him.

    Her hands held onto the railing on instinct, turning her head back in disbelief. But before anything could escape her mouth, Abel nted his palm on either side of her, his back against her back.

    "Abel!"

    "Shhбн" he bent over to her side, casting her an indifferent side-eye. "People are still here, darling. You don''t want to catch their attention, would you?"

    Her breath once again hitched, focusing on the voices below the balcony. She gulped, turning her head to peek out over the balcony, seeing some knights talking and walking.

    "Abel, thisбн are you nning to sabotage my hard work?" she inquired under her breath, voice shaking as she hung her head low.

    "No, of course not." He brushed her hair to the other side and leaned his face to her neck, tracing it with the apex of his nose.

    "Not here," came out a muffled voice, twisting her neck to face him. "People might seeбн"

    "From this height?" he arched a brow and sported a knowing look. "I don''t think so. Unless, of course, you scream, then people will look up."

    Aries bit her lower lip, eyes full of conflict. Back in the Rose pce, it was alright to make love with him since everyone deserted the ce. However, this ce was different and if they saw her with Abel, things would take a tremendous turn.<sub> </sub>

    Even soбн her knees were trembling at the thought while her blood traveling to the ends of her nerves circted at a higher speed, causing her body temperature to rise. For some reason, even if she mentally denied it, she wasбн thrilled.

    Abel smirked, knowing that conflicted look she was giving him. He licked his lips.

    How cute.

    "Darling, isn''t it fun?" he crooned as he leaned his face closer, nting soft and slow kisses on her jaw. "When you''re trying to convince yourself you''re sane, when in fact, you are aware you''re barely stepping on the fine line between sanity and insanity."

    His hand on the railing slid to wrap around her waist while the other was lifting her heavy skirt until it slid under. Aries instantly shivered when the night breeze caressed her thigh, in stark contrast to the hot breaths on her neck.

    "The thought of getting caught, spoiling the months of hard work just for this day, and being seenmitting an unvirtuous actбн why are you thrilled?" he smiled against her skin, sliding his thumb around the garter of her underwearбкfrom her hip to the frontбкto tease her.

    "I hate you," she spat out under her breath, shuddering when his hand slid inside her underwearpletely. Thanks to his arm around her waist, Aries didn''t stumble down when her knees wobbled uncontrobly.

    She propped her arms against the railings, gasping as his finger massaged her already dripping core. But she couldn''t make a sound when her eyes caught figures below, covering her lips on instinct.

    "Hate me still?" he whispered in her ear and then bit it sensually. "But darling, how is it my fault that you''re already dripping before touching you?"

    Aries let out a muffled noise as she hunched in, knees closing in when he prated her with his two fingers. With her body shivering and the junction between her thigh clenching, his deep and devious tone continued to tickle her ears.

    "Shall we stop now?" he asked, moving his fingers in and out ever so teasingly. "You already hate me enough. I don''t want to be hated even more."

    His arm around her hips moved up to the side of her head, guiding it so she would look at him. He tilted his head, mouth falling open at the sight of her flustered and conflicted expression.

    "Ahбн your inner conflict never fails to arouse me, Aries." He leaned his face forward and added under his breath, "you make my erection ache, darling. Treat this as an act to appease your jealous lover," before smashing his lips against hers.

    <o>,m Aries shut her eyes, torn between the fear of being found out and wanting to satisfy herself even with the risk. Before she could even decide, he suddenly pulled his fingers out and pulled down her underwear.</o>

    Her eyes snapped open, and she was about to turn around but was hindered when he nted his palm on her back and pushed her. "Abel, waitбн" she trailed off as her eye dted when she caught two knights walking below.

    As if nature was teasing her, one of the knights looked up and locked eyes with Aries. From the knight''s vantage point, he could barely see her leaning against the railings and was unaware she was blocking a man behind her.

    "sh them your beautiful smile, darling," Abel instructed and simpered, zipping down before smudging the love juices from his finger to the tip of his erection.

    "Ahбн hahбн" she bit her tongue and held her breath, forcing a smile at the knight while Abel held her hips and breached her entrance.

 Chapter 127 He Wanted Her In His Veins

    [WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. PROCEEDED WITH CAUTION.]

    "sh them a smile, darling."

    ? Abel smirked while stilling her hips and, like a mad beast, he dipped his erection deep in her without a moment''s notice. He hissed through his gritted teeth, staying still while feeling her body''s vibration under his palm.

    Her knees trembled as they closed in slightly, fighting her mouth from falling open. Instead, the side of her lips stretched into a smile as her eyes met the knight walking below. Thetter slightly tilted down his head that was akin to a bow, before he looked away without pausing in his tracks.

    Relief instantly enveloped her heart but was short-lived when Abel moved his hips ever so slowly.

    "Ahбн" Aries gritted her teeth while holding her hand into a tight fist, looking back only to see a pair of dangerous eyes looking back at her.

    "Abel," she called under her breath, watching him tilt his head while his brows rose. Her mouth opened and closed, wanting to tell him they should do it inside. However, the longer she looked at him, his covetous eyes told her he wasn''t joking.

    He was jealous. Even when she reassured him already, it was never enough to him. ssic Abel.

    Really, she thought. This man was pushing and pulling her on the line of insanity.

    Aries reached for his hand that was nted on her hips, tugging it lightly. "Come here," she whispered, panting because of his slow and careful thrust. "Kiss me."

    "Hmm?" he blinked almost innocently, staring at her flustered face, studying how her face crumpled along with his movements.

    How beautiful.

    When she called, "Abel," with such gentleness despite his nasty and perverted actions, his heart that had been drumming against his chest finally calmed down. His grip on her hips loosened, sliding his hand from her navel up to the center of her breast until his fingertip reached her neck.

    Bending over, he pulled her back to him, tilting his head to im her lips. His hand stilled her jaw, nibbling on her lips whilst thrusting in and out slowly but surely. His other arm held her hips securely, pulling her body to feel her deeper.

    Abel had never felt jealousy in the past, nor did he ever feel like anything could instill fear in his heart. So the turmoil he felt while watching her have fun without him, smiling so blindingly, made him want to crush her so badly she would never smile like that again. At least, not to others.

    He disliked how she looked so fine, even without him. If he was as essential as the air she breathed, just like what she imed, then why didn''t she look around to find him?

    He bit her lower lip until it bled, feasting on the taste of iron mixing in their mouths. Their tongues continued waltzing in between their lips, inhaling each other''s breath.

    "Aries," he whispered into her mouth, panting heavily as if he ran a mile. The next second he pulled out, and she instinctively turned around to face him. "Iбн"

    His words drifted back into his throat as she stood on her toes, wrapping her arms around his neck to continue their kiss. Her kiss wasn''t deep enough, but it was a continuous, soft peck to pacify him.

    "Better now?" she inquired under her breath, drawing her head back to see his somber expression. "Not angry anymore?"

    "How about you?" he asked as an answered, pinching her chin lightly. "Weren''t you angry?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line before she shook her head slightly. "Why would I? I like the thrillбн sort of."

    "Shall we do it here then?" he leaned his face over, brushing the apex of his nose against her cheek.<sub> </sub>

    "Will you take responsibility if people saw us?"

    "The dead speaks no tale."

    "Let''s continue inside." He chuckled at her immediate response while she rolled her eyes. "Reallyбн is that your only solution?"

    "Let''s make out inside, then." He whispered, biting her lip yfully that soon erupted into a passionate kiss.

    They walked back inside with them tangled in a roused kiss. Abel lifted her waist up while she wrapped her legs around his hip.

    Her hands hastily undid the buttons of his blouse while his free hand worked on the drawstrings of her bodice. Bits and pieces of fabric slowly fell on the floor, one after another.

    It was not like Aries wasn''t angry at his actions just now. Although there was a part of her who somehow found the thrill pleasing, it still happened too abruptly that she didn''t know what to feel.

    But staring at Abel and having a glimpse at the emotions hidden deep behind the dangers of his stunning rubies, she couldn''t get angry. She knew what she had signed up for.

    Abel would always be Abel.

    No matter how deep his affections for her, he wouldn''t change. Maybe a bit, but notpletely. He would need constant reminders and reassuranceбкeven though this was his idea in the first ce.

    "Ab иC"

    Aries gasped as her back hit the mattress, bouncing slightly while he stood on his knees. Abel grabbed her wrists over her head with one hand, bending over to im her lips once again. His free hand caressed her thigh while she bent her knee up.

    He was hungry for more.

    "Aries," he whispered, positing his groin in her entrance to feel her once again. Her back arched as she stretched to fit his massive girth, mouth falling open, toes clutching the sheet. She flinched when he suddenly bit her shoulder before her wrist felt numb with his grip, stopping the blood cirction in her hand momentarily.

    He loosened it not long after before, showering her with kisses on her jaw. He wasn''t usually impatient, but tonight, he was starving.

    "Aries," he called once again while his eyes glowed with bright red, gritting his teeth when he felt a pang in his gums and his fangs were growing long. He inhaled her skin, feeling the pulsating vein on the side of her neck whilst pounding into her even harder to keep her distracted.

    Noбн he thought.

    He wanted more.

    He wanted her in his veins.

    His embrace tightened, licking his fangs before licking her skin. Just when he was about to sink his fangs into her, she moaned. "Abelбн" and he froze.

    The unsuspecting Aries, drunk with pleasure and unaware of the danger just a centimeter away from her, added, "choose me."

 Chapter 128 He Only Do One-Night Stand

    <strong>[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. PROCEEDED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "Choose me."

    Abel froze, burying his forehead between Aries'' exposed shoulder des. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, clenching his teeth to push his fangs back into their original state.

    "Don''t leave, alright?" she panted, twisting her neck to face him. As soon as her eyesnded on the side of his face, he took a peek at her and smiled. His fangs were gone. Nothing was amissбн just right on time.

    "Of course, darling," he replied before kissing her on the cheek, moving his hips once again. "How can I leave when you don''t want me to?"

    A subtle smile dominated her face before biting her lips as he cupped her breast. Abel picked up his pace until his hammering grew intense and merciless, satiating his bloodlust through intercourse.

    "Ahhбн!" a moan she painstakingly held in escaped her mouth, igniting his desire to hear more of it. So Abel thrust deeper, ripping thest fabric that was still covering her front. The ripping sound caressed her ears and shuddered when the inbound breeze groped her exposed front.

    Still, she kept her teary eyes on him while he pushed himself away, only to hold her waist. A sudden dread crept up her spine at the sight of him. His eyes were burning like a beastбкalmost like they were glowing in the dark.

    However, Aries didn''t think much about it. She couldn''t, because the next second, Abel squeezed her hips before he smacked her thigh with a pang.

    "Turn around, darling," he ordered under his breath, and impatient as he was, Abel held her feet up to the side until she turned around, lying on her tummy.

    "Wait, IиC" she nearly choked on her own words when his weight nketed over her, his chest against her back. He pinned her wrist as he thrust powerfully. His knees kept her feet together, making her flower close and tightened.

    In this position, she was swallowing him whole while she could feel his entire mast. Aries''s mouth opened, as he continued to go further deep, only to pull ever so slowly and pound into her even harder. He continued the cycle until she was writhing underneath him, only to pin his body against her to feel her vibration.

    Sweats formed between their inmed bodies as the sound of skin pping resonated along with their moans and grunts. But neither wanted to stop. The harder he rammed her insides, the louder her moans were and calls for his name.

    He was correct. It was his name she would be screaming the entire night, grabbing her neck to devour her lips, swallowing her sweet moans.

    "Abelбн I''mбн" she winced and her voice grew muffled as he bit her lips once again.

    "... for meбн" those were the only words she could make from his sentence as he kept thrusting until she flinched and contracted around him. Her mouth fell open once again, clutching the sheet even tighter.

    It didn''t take long when Abel grunted loudly, biting her shoulder as he picked up his pace until hot liquids filled her insides. She could feel him jerk inside her while she took deep breaths, letting their love residues drip from her petals.

    Unlike usual, Abel rested on her back, but still watched his weight so he wouldn''t crush her. He breathed into her damped skin, making her shiver with his every breath. Noticing her flinch slightly, he breathed out heavily.

    Aries tilted her head and raised her right shoulder on instinct. "Stopбн" came out a softint.

    "Tickles?" he asked in a rasped voice, smirking while brushing the tip of her nose against her spine.

    "Stopбн hahaбн!" with Aries underneath him, she could only wiggle her body, chuckling while telling him to stop. He didn''t listen to her for a good one minute before Abel finally got off of her, copsing on her side as if he was so tired.

    As he did, Aries rested her jaw on her arms, eyes on him. Her lips curled up, watching him catch up to his breathing while staring nkly at the ceiling before turning his head to look back at her.

    "Darling, I''m growing older. You''re the first person to make me catch up to my breathing," heined, nting his palm on his chest that was moving up and down heavily.<sub> </sub>

    "We''re only ten years apart, and telling me I''m the first is not apliment." She giggled while rolling her eyes. "You don''t have to rub it on my face that youбн had tasted every woman in the empire."

    "Oh, darling... I am older than your ancestor." He smirked, rolling to his side, propping his temple against his knuckles. "And why is it not apliment? Jealous? Then, hurt me just as much as I hurt you to call it even."

    "Hmph." Aries rolled her eyes, paralyzed in her position. Her knees were still trembling and her entire body still felt his rough hand groping her.

    "Don''t worry, darling. I hadn''t tasted all women in the empire." He raised a hand, tucking her hair behind her ear carefully. "If only I did, then Haimirich will be a ce of only men. I only do one-night stand, after all."

    She held her breath while listening to him, eyes dting in horror. What did he mean by one-night stand? He didn''t mean it was because they were all dead, right?

    Abel simpered, seeing the horror in her eyes. "Scared?"

    Aries blinked while studying his devious smirk. She would be lying if she said no, she wasn''t. The dread that suddenly crept into her heart upon hearing his confession was too distinct to ignore.

    "Will you ever kill me?" she inquired with quivering lips.

    "No, of course not." He batted his eyes ever so tenderly, but the menacing glint that flickered across those rxed eyes told her otherwise. "Unless you give me a reason. Then I have no choice but to drain your blood so you live in me forever."

    Aries frowned while keeping her eyes on him. She had almost forgotten how unhinged he was. Sometimes, Abel would act smart and cunning to the point it made her grateful she wasn''t his enemy. There were also days his lips only sang shallow tunes, he sounded foolish.

    He kept changing, depending on his mood. But one fact that never changed. Abel was a sadistic killer, a tyrant, and downright crazy.

    "I''m crazy," she muttered upon all the thoughts that suddenly crossed her mind, making him arched a brow. "Don''t you think?"

    "For fucking a monster? Well, surprise surprise, youиC" he abruptly stopped when Aries corrected him.

    "Not just fucking a monster, but bearing feelings with him." Her voice was soft and clear, eyshes fluttering ever so tenderly, while his eyes slightly dted. "But who cares? You''re my beautiful monster."

    There was a moment of silence between them before his eyes gradually darkened, caressing her back with his fingertips.

    "Darling, stop making my heart flutter if you don''t n on marrying me," he crooned, moving his face closer while pushing her shoulder until she was lying on her back. "You have to take responsibility."

    "You''re so demanding," she chuckled before sumbing to his passionate kiss that led into another round of passion. This time, Abel had more patience as he kissed every part of her body, making the junction between her thigh drip with love juices.

    It was another night where he didn''t let her sleep until she begged him to rest. To her, it was just as simple as a night of passion, but for him, it was more and deeper than just two bodies entangling in the art of debauchery.

    For Abel, it was a night that changed himбн forever.

    Was it for the good? Or bad? No one knew but him.

    The only thing that was certain was that she, Aries, was his final nail in the coffin.

 Chapter 129 Happy Two Friends

    After the sess of her debut as Danie and a well-spent passionate night with Abel, the word about a dazzling princess spread across the continent. Some sang praises about her while others hid their jealousy, afraid it woulde back and bite them. Men, on the other hand, had more reason to affiliate themselves with the Vandrans.

    Aries, or Danie, as what everyone called her, wasn''t only elegant and beautiful. She was also Marquess'' new powerful political tool to use if he wanted to.

    That was where Abel, His Majesty''s name, would appear.

    Regardless of the nobles'' different opinions, another name would always appear in every tea party and secret gathering: His Majesty, the Emperor.

    Abel''s promiscuous lifestyle was no secret in the upper echelon. With a beauty that was akin to a goddess incarnate as Aries, she would surely catch the eye of the infamous emperor.

    But with her rtionship with Dexter, who was the leader of the aristocratic faction, would she be the bridge between the aristocratic faction and the imperial faction? Or would she break the political bnce and be a reason for a power struggle?

    That question would remain a mystery but also a heated topic.

    While nobles were busy wondering about that, the people involved in their talk hadn''t spared a second about it. They were busy with something else.

    "Lady Aries!!!"

    Aries looked back and her face instantly brightened up. There, at the entrance of the garden in the Rose garden, was the energetic Conan.

    "Sir Conan!" she eximed, grinning from ear to ear.

    Energetic and happy to see each other again, Aries jogged to meet Conan halfway. They stopped in the middle of the fountain, holding each other hands excitedly.

    "Lady Aries! You look beautiful thest time I saw you, but you''re even more beautiful today!" he praised happily, jumping along with her while still holding her hand.

    "Sir Conan, that''s too much of apliment!" she giggled.

    Both of them grinned until their teeth were showing, jumping like excited little children. Today was Aries''s first visit to the imperial pce as Danie after her debut five days ago.

    "I didn''t know blonde will suit you!" Conan gazed at her golden straight hair as they stopped jumping. "Green is better. I feel like I''m staring at the Marquess'' hair."

    She clicked her tongue. "Sir Conan, hold your tongue if you have nothing good to say about my brother."

    "Lady Aries! Are you saying you''ll choose Marquess Vandran over me? Your Ally?!"

    "The ally who always betrays and takes advantage of my good conscience, and also the ally who is already drowning in the debt he owed me?! Of course!"

    "Really?" he frowned, casting her puppy eyes to gain some sympathy. "Lady Aries, you know I just didбн"

    "Shh!" her eyes dted, giving him a warning look. "Sir Conan, I''m really d to see you after months. But let''s not rekindle all the awful things you did to me."

    "Whatбн" His frown grew worse as he pouted, but didn''t really argue with her.

    Well, he wasn''t as shameless as Abel, because Conan was aware he betrayed her one way or another. Although it was more like selling his friend out to save his own skin, things still met a good end.

    Abel and Aries became lovers. With Abel''s help, Aries could get the justice she deserved and now was known as Danie. The noblest woman on the continent who had the power to change the authority in the empire.

    Aries released his hands and crossed her arms, taking a step before she plopped her butt down on the t rim of the fountain.<sub> </sub>

    "Sir Conan, you hadn''t changed." She pointed out, arching a brow as he also sat down beside her. "I mean, the only thing that changed in you is that you have more wrinkles."

    Conan gasped as he dramatically nted his palm on his chest. "What? Lady Aries, that is not a good joke!"

    "But I''m not joking! You really look like you aged ten years than thest time I saw you."

    "Afterplimenting you, you''re telling me I looked ugly?"

    "I didn''t say that." Aries feigned innocence as she shook her head. "All I''m saying is, Gustav, the head butler of the House of Vandran, will look younger than you."

    "Hell! That''s even worse!"

    As he looked at her ghastly, Aries could not help but burst out inughter. This was what she meant when Conan didn''t change a bit. He was still a bit gullible, especially when his looks were brought up. Conan was very concerned about his looks.

    "Haha! I''m jesting, Sir Conan." She covered her lips with the back of her fist, causing his expression to die. "You should stop stressing over His Majesty''s shenanigans and you''ll live a freer life."

    "I wish!" he grumbled, scrunching his nose up. "Lady Aries, ever since you and His Majesty had be all chummy, I''m on my own again! Did you think my life here became easy when you left for the marquess''s house? He''s so bored that all his attention is on me!"

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips while gazing at him. "Sir Conan, you''re still alive and in one piece. So, that means you''re alright."

    "Alright? Have you considered my mental health before saying that?"

    "Wellбн bless your heart."

    "Not my heart, bless my brain!" He sighed for the umpteenth time, wiping the invisible tears from the corner of his eyes. "I''m really on my own again."

    Aries chuckled while staring at the dramatic Conan. She was truly pleased that she decided to visit the imperial pce under the guise of visiting Dexter. Thanks to Morro, Abel''s raven, she managed to inform Conan regarding this visit.

    "By the way, Sir Conan, have you heard anything about the current state of affairs in the Maganti empire?" she inquired after clearing her throat, changing the topic to the main reason the two of them met in the Rose pce like secret lovers.

    Her question realigned his focus to something more important.

    "Ohбн right." His lips formed an O-shape as he rocked his head slightly. "About that, His Majesty is still dying about your betrothal and is focusing on the trades. But if you''re asking about that rotten piece of milk, then he''s still worse than human manure."

    "Have you met him?"

    "No. But I hate him. He managed to dethrone the marquess on my hate list." Conan shrugged nonchntly. "Your betrothal to him will secure his spot for their throne. So you have all the time in the world to train under Lord Darkmore while I and His Majesty will keep demanding and draining their royal treasury."

    The corner of her lips twitched, seeing that proud grin stered across his face. "You''re evil."

    "Well, this kind of evilness is the satisfying one!"

    All she could do was shake her head lightly before the two of them just chatted and nned in between. It was hard to focus on the important thing since Conan always get sidetracked.

    Either way, the first phase of their n was carried out smoothly. It was time for the second phase of their preparation.

 Chapter 130 Her Heart Can Keep Up, But Her Body Cant

    Aries''s current disposition hindered her from meeting Abel publicly. It was better to let the nobles anticipate Danie''s first meeting with the emperor. Still, they met in secret. Abel came to her in the Rose pce and they had a pic with Conan.

    Apparently, Abel and Aries both dragged him with them just so they had an audience. That day, Conan surely aged ten years with those two spawns of devils joining forces.

    After that day, they continued to live their respective lives.

    Abel would still give headaches to everyone in the inner pce. Conan''s nagging would always be heard through the thin walls of the pce, and Aries lived the life of Danie.

    "I thought I''m already used to dealing with countless invitations in the past," she mumbled, cupping her cheek with a somber expression stered across her face.

    She fixed her eyes on the stack of invitations from different noble houses. Just the sight of fit already exhausts her. They just kepting that no matter how hardworking she was, it felt like an endless routine.

    "Although Sir Conan gave me a list of noble families, who will benefit me the most, it still feels a bother," she breathed out while leaning back. She stretched her neck and massaged it to ease its stiffness.

    "I need a bit of rest."

    Aries closed her eyes, still stretching her neck. She had been answering letters since morning until now that the sun was setting. If she could afford to sleep, she would''ve done it already, but her conscience wouldn''t allow her to.

    "There''s still so much work, Aries. You shouldn''t sleep yet," came out a mutter, fighting off her desire to take a nap. Her schedule had been strict unlike before she debuted in high society.

    Not to mention, she had to visit the imperial pce at least twice a week to meet Abel. Even if Abel''s affection for her was strong, she needed to keep investing in him. It wasn''t like she had other ulterior motives, but it was better to be safe.

    "Right." She snapped her eyes, resuming in segregating the letters from the important ones to the least important. Aries tried her best to stay awake, but in the end, no matter how strong her will was, her body couldn''t keep up.

    While segregating the letters, Aries paused as blood dripped onto the table. She looked down and raised her brows, touching her upper lip before drawing her finger away only to see blood on it.

    "Ahhбн" her vision shook as her head suddenly felt light. Before she could even react, her eyes dimmed as her body fell to the side ever so slowly, and then nothing.

    THUD

    Shortly after Aries lost her consciousness, a knock from outside the door came in. Dexter stood outside, knocking on them lightly.

    "Dani, can Ie in?" he asked with just enough volume for the person inside to hear him. "I need to tell you about something important."

    Knowing Aries, she would yell from the inside, telling him toe in like usual. But when no one replied to him, the space between his brows wrinkled.

    "Dani, are you asleep?" he inquired, staring at the door, gravitating whether to take a peek to check if she had fallen asleep. "Iбн"

    When the wind from the room swept the scent of her blood through the tiny gaps of the door, Dexter, who just stepped back after deciding to let her rest, froze. Without thinking twice, he barged into her room, eyes falling on her figure lying near her desk.<sub> </sub>

    "Dani!" he yelled in panic, dashing his way towards her and crouched only to see the blood on her upper lips.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    "Gustav, send me Dani''s schedule. I would like to see it." Dexter massaged his temple while he was sitting on the armchair next to Aries''s bed.

    After he found her lying unconscious on the floor, Dexter summoned Gustav, who appeared almost immediately. While the former carried her to the bed, he ordered him to call for a physician to check on her condition. Apparently, Aries had been pushing herself a lottely.

    The poisons aside, Aries needed proper rest. Although the physician didn''t tell Dexter directly, thetter already understood the cause of her fatigue by seeing the strange look in the doctor''s eyes.

    It was Abel.

    "I will send Lady Danie''s schedule first thing in the morning tomorrow, my Lord," Gustav, who was standing behind Dexter''s seat, replied. "Please, you have to rest as well, my lord. Gertrude and Minerva will look afterdy Danie, so you do not have to worry."

    "That''s alright, Gustav. I''ll look after her myself." Dexter waved nonchntly, opening his eyes, which immediatelynded on the woman lying on the bed.

    Gustav''s lips parted, but he chose to close them and bowed. "If you need anything, I will be on standby."

    "No, Gustav." The marquess''s eyes glinted as they darkened while his jaw tightened. "That is not what you need to do. Don''t let Abel enter our premises in the meantime. Dani needs some rest, but he wouldn''t understand that, since he is selfish."

    "My Lord, forgive my insolence, but this might anger His Majesty." This time, Gustav had to voice out his opinion, as it was necessary. "You hadn''t recovered since thest time you fought head to head with him."

    There was a brief silence after the head butler''s remarks before Dexter repeated. "Don''t let Abel step foot in my estate." He nced over his shoulder and added. "If he enters here, decimate Conan."

    Gustav wanted to argue with him, but after staring at Dexter''s back for a few seconds, he was certain Dexter wasn''t joking. Hence, he could only bow.

    "Yes, my lord," replied the head butler before pivoting on his heel, walking out of Aries'' room. As he did, Gustav''s eyes glinted in red.

    CLICK

    Dexter blinked ever so slowly when the click of the door as it shut closed caressed his ears. His eyes remained dark, staring at Aries in silence.

    p "Dani," he whispered, reaching for her hand and squeezing it lightly. In his eyes, the woman lying on the bed wasn''t Aries. The person he was seeing was Danie, making him recall the exact same situation where he had to sit beside her bed while she was lying asleep.</anda>

    "He is dangerous, Dani," came out another whisper, squeezing her hand lightly. "The more value you have in his life, the more you have to be wary of that monster. Loveбн is something you''d never want from him."

 Chapter 131 I Hate Ghosts

    "You should love me more, Conan." Abel frowned, staring at the somber night sky while lying on the vastndscape in the empire. "Gustav said he will kill you if I forced my way into the marquess'' territory. Isn''t he heartless and aren''t I good?"

    Conan, who was standing two meters away from the emperor, frowned. "Your Majesty! Gustav already sent a word, but you still went to see Lady Aries!"

    "I was worried."

    "If you''re worried, then why wouldn''t you let her rest?" he frowned.

    Conan had received a word from Dexter''s trusted butler regarding Aries'' health condition. Apparently, she fainted due to fatigue. Although the physician didn''t verbally speak about the primary source of her fatigue, Dexter''s warning to Abel was enough to know the cause.

    It was Abel.

    "She''s already lucky that she didn''t die during your first night..."

    "Why would she die on our first night of consummation?" Abel quirked a brow, turning his head in Conan''s direction. "Aries is special. Hence, I want her tost. Why would I kill her?"

    A deep exhale escaped Conan''s nostrils. "Your Majesty, I give up. If Gustav came to kill me, my soul will never rest in peace, and I will haunt you forever."

    "I hate ghosts..." Abel frowned, watching Conan huff before storming away from him. "What a bother."

    He snapped his tongue before gazing back at the clear night sky. His arms spread wide, unbothered by the fact that people might see the emperor lying on the grass.

    Just minutes ago, Abel went to visit Aries after receiving a word from Gustav. However, just right outside the gates of the pce, Gustav was already waiting for him, as if he had known Abel would still do whatever he wanted.

    Not that Gustav could match him in a serious duel. Thing was, Gustav had his ways of making people agree with him.

    "I can''t deny that my insatiable thirst for lust isn''t easily quenched..." came out in azy and low voice, closing his eyes ever so slowly. "But Aries can keep up with me for a few rounds, and I''m satisfied each time." бк it was just that his lust was bottomless.

    It was already amazing Aries couldst a round, but then again, Abel was being gentle. He was already holding back and barely leaving her with tons of hickeys. She neverined, so he didn''t really consider holding back even more. Aries could take it.

    But it seemed although they both enjoyed each other''spany on the bed, her body still had its limits. He wouldn''t let her off and had been too excited, especially during her secret visits. On top of that, Aries had to work hard on studying and brewing tea to build a good image for the public.

    She hadn''t started her training with Isaiah yet. But if she did, her schedule would be even more packed.

    "I never thought I will regret a decision... a bit." Another deep exhale escaped his mouth at the thought of this situation he put upon himself. Surely, humans'' fickleness infected him.

    It was his idea to send Aries to the Maganti Empire and drag that wretched empire to the mud. He thought of that because he wanted Aries to get even. But with all these meticulous preparations, he was starting to regret it. He was getting less and less time from her.<sub> </sub>

    "I should''ve ordered Isaiah to destroy that ce." He sighed for the umpteenth time, opening his eyes ever so slowly. "But well... we''re already in it."

    Abel remained silent for a second before he pulled his body to sit up. He stretched his shoulder in a circr motion, his other hand on his shoulder de.

    "Since I cannot see Aries for a while, I might as well do something productive. Conan!" he yelled even though his advisor wasn''t around the area anymore. "I''m going to that damn ce."

    As soon as those words flew out of his mouth, Isaiah slinked out of the dark like a shadowing to life. He stopped at a good distance, standing next to the bush.

    "Your Majesty, the coven is approaching," Isaiah reminded him with his cold baritone voice. "I don''t think this is the right time for you to leave the empire."

    "Fucking Coven." Abel snickered as he slowly stood up, running both his hands through his hair and brushing it back. "I''ll be back in a few days. Distract Aries while I''m there."

    "Your Majesty."

    Abel cocked his head back and sported a devious smirk. "Don''t worry, Isaiah. I won''t wreak havoc in that ce. I just need one good reason why I shouldn''t wreak havoc."

    "..." What did he even mean by that? It rendered Isaiah speechless as he could only stare at Abel, stretching his neck from one side to the other.

    The next second, Isaiah heard what seemed to be the crisped sound of bone-crushing as the back of Abel''s shirt moved away from his body while something from his back grew. His eyes glinted menacingly, snapping them around. They were currently just right in the middle of thendscape near the driveway of the inner pce.

    There were still many people and knights around. Usually, Abel would let out his demonic wings in the forbidden pce. Therefore, Isaiah, just to be sure, removed his right glove. On the back of hisrge hand was a raised scar that looked like a circle with triangle lines inside.

    He raised his hand in front of him, palm facing down. When his scar glowed in faint red and then he clenched his hand.

    Nothing happened... or rather, nothing seemed to happen.

    "Your Majesty, you''ve been acting more and more reckless." Isaiah pointed out when a pair of wings that were akin to gigantic bat wings fluttered open. Its sharp tip dripped with blood and for someone like Isaiah, the sight of it and the power it naturally emanated was... eerily majestic.

    Abel smirked, licking his fangs, cocking his head back, eyes on Isaiah. "I''m not being reckless. You''re here to put up a barrier so no one else will see us." Heughed with his lips closed, wiping the corner of his lips as he hissed.

    "Or maybe... I am being reckless and hoping Aries would see so I could use the cage I procured." His smirked remained, gazing up at the starless night sky. "Either way... I''m off."

    In a blink of an eye, the ground he was standing on shook and cracked, and before Isaiah could blink once again, a powerful gust of wind blew past him.

    Abel was gone and the shallow cracks were the only trance he left.

 Chapter 132 I Told You So

    The space between Aries'' brows wrinkled as she moaned and blinked weakly. When her vision slightly grew clearer, she caught a figure from her peripheral vision. She turned her head and smiled subtly.

    ''I bet he was worried,'' she thought, staring at Dexter who was in the armchair near her bed. He was sleeping with his temple propped against his knuckles, and his leg resting over the other.

    Her eyes remained on his figure until they softened. Dexter reminded her of herte big brother. He was also like this whenever one of their siblings would fall ill.

    Just when Aries was about to avert her eyes, her brows rose as his eyes opened ever so slowly. Dexter raised his exhausted eyes at her, and in an instant, he bent over to the side of the bed.

    "Dani, are you alright?" he asked while studying her.

    Aries chuckled, as this was actually the first time he seemed truly anxious. "Yes. Did I worry you?"

    "You shouldn''t push yourself too much." He breathed out, dragging the chair closer to the bed. "The doctor said you need rest, lots of rest. You''re pushing yourself too much."

    "But I''m fine now."

    "No, you should rest more." Dexter shook his head and pressed a finger on her forehead. "How can you protect yourself if you''re sick?"

    Aries frowned but didn''t argue with him. When he was certain she would behave, he removed the finger from her forehead and sighed.

    "Aries." She flinched, eyes on him. It had been a while since Dexter called her by her real name. "Even if you are Aries, you''re Danie now, and my sister. Listen to me. I only want the best for you."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, staring into his eyes. "Sorry," came out a soft voice as she reached for his hand.

    "I''ll take care of myself so you don''t get worried anymore." She squeezed his hand lightly. iming Danie''s name and life had its own responsibility. How could she forget? The real Danie died, so Dexter didn''t want to lose Aries, who filled that void his sister left in his heart.

    "Rest some more." He smiled gently, stroking her hair before tucking her in properly.

    "What about you?" she asked with good intention. "Are you going to watch over me? I''m fine now, so you also have to rest."

    He shook his head with his lips closed. "I''ll rest once you fell asleep again. I''m fine."

    Her mouth opened and closed, but her voice was stuck in her throat. In the end, Aries could only stare at him for a moment before nodding. She let out a deep exhale and closed her eyes, feeling his intent gaze at her.

    One thing she had to remind herself repeatedly was Dexter was her brother now. It may sound ridiculous to others, but deep in his heart, he already believed Aries was his sister, and it wasn''t a simple act anymore.

    They both gain the family they craved for, filling the piece in each other''s hearts. Therefore, Aries shouldn''t keep thinking about her revenge without considering those around her.

    "Thank you, brother," she whispered as she opened her eyes slightly. He gave her a smile and a slight nod.

    "Not at all. Rest more."

    ************<sub> </sub>

    Three daysterбн

    "I''m fineбн" Aries rolled her eyes as she frowned, rolling on the setteezily. "It''s been three days and I''m really fine now."

    She lied on her tummy, chin on the armrest of the settee, eyes on the person sitting behind his desk. For the past two days, Aries didn''t have anything to do but stick with Dexter like glue. It was not like he told her to; it was just that her schedule was empty for a total rest.

    The first two days were alright, but now she would die out of boredom.

    Dexter raised his eyes over the rim of his spectacles. "I can see that."

    "Ughбн" she frowned and snapped her tongue while Dexter resumed reading the document in his hand. "I''ve turned into a sloth."

    She nced at Dexter, who was ignoring herpletely. Another sigh slipped past her lips. All the invitations to Aries had stoppeding, and she wasn''t allowed to do things that could strain her physical and mental health. But doing nothing was straining her already!

    "Rest, Dani. Tomorrow, the Duke of Fleure will officially train you." She snapped her eyes while Dexter spokezily, without casting her a look. "If you cannot survive his first day of training, he will quit. He doesn''t have very long patience. Even if it was His Majesty''s orders, there''s nothing we can do if he gives up on you."

    "Ohбн"

    Dexter raised his eyes at her once again. "He means it when he said he won''t go easy on you. That also means he will make you give up, purposely."

    "It''s alright." The side of her lips slowly curled ?until her eyes squinted. "A day of training under the duke is already an honor. I bet I can learn a lot from him in a day more than I can learn things from others in a month."

    "Dani, you''re too optimistic." He tried to conceal the disbelief in his eyes but failed miserably. "Lord Darkmore isn''t what he seems he is. Don''t forget, he is one of His Majesty''s people."

    "Heheбн" she giggled, tilting her head. Wasn''t she also one of Abel''s people? Aries wanted to say that, but she didn''t want to irritate Dexter.

    ? He shook his head and slowly shifted his focus on the document in front of him. "Don''t make me say I told you so."

    "Yes, yesбн"

    If only Aries knew what Dexter truly mean, she wouldn''t smile so brightly. Her brother wasn''t exaggerating. If anything, Dexter understated what she should expect from a warmonger, Abel''s hellhound, and a psychopath hidden behind his cold and aloof shell.

    The next dayбн

    "I told you so." Aries turned her head to Dexter, who was standing on the side of their estate''s training ground. Standing behind him was Gustav.

    ''My godбн'' she let out a sigh, shifting her eyes back to Isaiah, standing several feet away from her, holding his swordбкthe real swordбкwhich was bathed with the blood of his enemies from countless wars.

    "Lord Darkmore, please don''t kill me," was the only words that slipped her mouth, staring at the man who told her to block his attack.

 Chapter 133 He Was Being Nice

    "Lord Darkmore, please don''t kill me."

    Aries'' grip around hernce trembled before Isaiah. Even from this distance, she could feel his superior aura fitting for a war general like him. Although she had already taken part in a war in the past, she couldn''t stop her body from trembling.

    Isaiah was akin to a war god, and she felt like an ant before him. Just how was she supposed to block an attack from him?!

    "Iбн" He trailed off and when Aries blinked, her eyes dted when he suddenly appeared below her with his sword going up from her side. "... won''t."

    <strong>CLANG!</strong>

    Aries''s brain went nk for a second as the defeating ng of two metals colliding rang in her ear. It created a strong gust of wind, blowing past her hair.

    "I knew you would do that." Aries snapped her nk eyes, raising them at Dexter, who appeared on her side to block Isaiah''s de with a knife that had the same size as the palm of his hand.

    Dexter chuckled before he cast her a knowing look while Isaiah drew his sword back.

    "See? I told you, Dani. You''re too optimistic." He averted his eyes to Isaiah. "Every time he draws his sword, he just cannot stop."

    "Marquess Vandran. I will appreciate it if you don''t interfere with our lesson." Isaiah voiced out with his ssic toneless voice. He nced at Aries indifferently before shifting his eyes back to Dexter.

    "I came here to teach her a lesson, not you."

    Dexter smiled, but it didn''t reach his eyes at the double meaning of Isaiah''s remarks. "Teach her how to wield and protect herself, not that kind of lesson."

    "Experience is the best instructor anyone could ever have. You and Iбн know this very well."

    "Experienceбн how would she learn from experience if she is already dead?" Dexter tilted his head while ying with the knife.

    As silence dawned on them, Aries blinked countless times. She barely rposed herself, darting her eyes between the two of them. Her eyes fell on the short knife in Dexter''s hand and then gazed at Isaiah''s heavy sword.

    ''Amazingбн'' she looked up at Dexter. For this man to stop Isaiah''s attack with a mere knife, it made more sense why he became the leader of the aristocratic faction. Dexter was not only wealthy and influential, but he was also skilled.

    But Isaiahбн

    Aries gazed at Isaiah and took little steps to hide behind her brother. She red daggers at the man in question. That man nned to kill her. She felt it. If Dexter didn''t stop his attack, he would have split Aries in half!

    Crazy! There was no shadow of a doubt he was definitely one of Abel''s people!

    Dexter arched a brow and nced over his shoulder, chuckling seeing her re daggers at Isaiah. Meanwhile, Aries flinched when Isaiah locked eyes with her.

    "Don''t spoil her." Isaiah raised his sword, pointing at her, who was hiding behind the marquess. "She won''t learn if you keep defending her."

    "I''m not spoiling her. I am simply asking you to be a little nice to her."<sub> </sub>

    "I am, in fact, being nice to the both of you."

    "I see you have a heart of gold thenбн" Dexter''s eyes glinted dangerously, letting the frontyer of his calm facade disappear.

    As the two had a calm exchange of words, Gustav, who was standing on the sidelines, darted his eyes between Dexter and Isaiah. And then his eyes settled on Aries, who was fanning the mes by mischievously whispering in the marquess'' ears.

    "His Lordship will kill me if I tell him he and the duke look like Lady Aries''s parents." He sighed and spoke under his breath, still catching Dexter''s and Isaiah''s attention as they looked in his direction. Even with how low his mumble was, the two heard him loud and clear.

    "Gustav, you should''ve kept your thoughts in your head," said Dexter, making Aries tilt her head, as she was the only one who didn''t hear Gustav.

    "Please respect my time with thedy." Isaiah also spoke, ignoring Gustav''s provocation. "Unless we call it a day and you do not want me toe in here again."

    "Don''te, then. I''ll teach her instead." Dexter shrugged while Aries frowned.

    Although she was annoyed at Isaiah for nearly killing her moments ago, she couldn''t really burden Dexter even further. Following him around the past few days already told her he was a busy man. At this rate, Dexter would be the one who would fall ill.

    Aries cleared her throat, straightening her back as she took a step out of Dexter''s back. "Brother, it''s alright. Lord Darkmore had already spared me some time toe in here and share his knowledge." She then faced Isaiah squarely.

    "My apologies for my childish behavior just now. I was simply taken by surprise, for I wascent." She tilted her head down slightly. When she raised her head, her eyes showed rity. "Please give me another chance to prove myself worthy of your time."

    She pressed her lips and smiled meekly, ncing at Dexter. Thetter arched a brow before a deep exhale escaped his nostrils. Meanwhile, Isaiah simply shrugged, not moved by her actions or words because that was just the bare minimum for being a baby.

    "Brother," Aries called once again and gazed up at Dexter. "I''ll be fine. If you think I will be in real danger, please doe and save me."

    "Daniбн" he let out another sigh and shook his head. "Fine. But don''t me me if you get hurt a bit."

    "Yes!"

    Dexter stared at her for a moment before he sighed once again. He had been sighing a lottelyбкever since Aries stepped foot in the mansion. In the end, he couldn''t really fight or kill her spirit. He walked away, joining Gustav on the sidelines, only to receive a knowing look from the butler.

    Aries huffed as she set her determined eyes on Isaiah. She held hernce in front of her, taking a stance to spar with him.

    "Experience is the best instructor anyone can learn from," she repeated Isaiah''s words. "I cannot disagree with that. Please don''t be easy on me."

    Isaiah narrowed his eyes, listening to the soundless breeze that suddenly blew past them. His eyes went from her head to toe, studying her stance and the determination in her eyes.

    "I definitelyбн" he whispered in a level only he could hear before his foot caused a shallow crack on the ground, bolting towards her like a lightning. "... won''t."

    <strong>CLANG!</strong>

 Chapter 134 If Not For Her...

    <strong>CLANG!</strong>

    A strong gust of wind blew past Aries, making her breath hitch, wide-eyed. Everything happened so fast her body couldn''t keep up, but at the same time, slow enough for her eyes to see everything unfold. Her eyes watched the tip of a brokennce somersault in the air and prated the dry ground.

    She thought if she was prepared for Isaiah''s attack, she could at least dodge him. But s, he was faster than his first attempt. She barely flung her sword, which broke upon having contact with Isaiah''s sword.

    Amazing.

    Although Aries wasn''t new to fighting, before Isaiah, she was akin to an infant. She wouldn''t stand a chance if this was an actual fight with their life at stake. And yet, she couldn''t stop the excitement bubbling in her heart.

    "You were watching." Isaiah''s voice snapped her out of her trance, removing his cufflink to fold his sleeves up, revealing the burnt and deep scars on his arm. He gazed at her, who was looking back at him with a sparkling eye.

    "If I was an actual enemy, your head would''ve left your neck," he added in the same toneless remark. "Do the offense this time."

    "Uhбн alright." Aries pursed her lips and cleared her throat, shifting her attention to Gustav, who handed her a new thin sword to rece the broken one in her possession.

    "Thank you, Gustav." She smiled, while thetter also smiled politely. Meanwhile, as the head butler helped her, Isaiah kept his eyes on Aries and sized her up discreetly.

    Physically, Aries wasn''t weakбкnot as delicate as most nobledies. He could tell she had a fair amount of share in the battlefield, which gave her some experience. She might not realize it, but Aries took Isaiah by surprise when she met his eyes.

    Her body wasn''t able to keep up with his speed, but if her eyes could, it wouldn''t take long before her body get used to it. The corner of his eyes squinted as they wrinkled.

    Abel was right. Aries would surprise him in a way. Why? Becauseбн only a few met Isaiah''s eyes while holding his sword and were still alive.

    "Alright! Lord Darkmore, I''m ready!" he snapped his eyes when she eximed excitedly, holding her sword with one hand and an air of confidence.

    ''Not only did she meet my eye, but she is even excited after that.'' He mentally smirked while staring at her. "Make your move once youбн"

    His eyes glinted when she lurched forward before he could even finish his sentence. Without blinking, he blocked her attack, which was followed by another one and many more. Soon, the continuous sound of metal shing resonated in the air as Aries attacked him from all sides while he blocked them all calmly.

    "Hahбн" Dexter let out a dryugh while shaking his head.

    "Are you leaving now, my lord?" asked Gustav when the marquess pivoted on his heel. "Shall I stay in here and look after Lady Danie?"

    "No, it''s fine, Gustav." He waved as he strutted away. "She''ll be fine."

    Gustav''s brows rose as he nced at Aries and Isaiah engaged in a one-sided sh. The side of his lips curled up, along with a faint exhale.

    ''She will probably do just fine, indeed,'' he thought, seeing the excited grin cemented on Aries''s face. With that thought in mind, Gustav peeled his eyes away from the two figures in the middle of the training grounds before following Dexter''s tracks.

    <strong>********</strong>

    "I''m so tiredбн!"

    "Mydy, that is because you were training so intensely." Minerva chuckled while massaging Aries''s back right after she washed up from thetter''s training.<sub> </sub>

    Aries nced back, lying on her tummy on the bed. Thanks to Minerva, Aries''s muscles didn''t feel beat because of the hot bath and the incensed she lit up to soothe her mood. She and Gertrude, who was currently cleaning up the mess in Aries'' room, truly pampered her.

    "Minerva." Minerva paused when Aries called her, moving her eyes to thetter, only to see her shifting her eyes in Gertrude''s direction. "Gertrude."

    "Yes, mydy?" A few fabrics draped over Gertrude''s arms as she faced Aries.

    "I''m d to meet you," Aries expressed from the bottom of her heart. "Thank you for taking care of me."

    "It is my honor, mydy." Gertrude smiled warmly and bowed slightly.

    "Mydyбн" Minerva, in contrast, was a little emotional as her eyes softened.

    "Haha. Minerva, don''t let your tears fall or I''ll be very angry." Ariesughed, seeing that just another word and Minerva would bawl her eyes. "I don''t want to see tears, I want to see smiles."

    "*hic* mydy, how can I smile when you''re thanking us like that?"

    "Not my problem, Minerva."

    "Mydyбн!" Aries and Gertrudeughed while Minerva tried to hold her tears. Thetter chewed her bottom lips as she continued on massaging Aries mildly.

    **********

    Meanwhile...

    "An empire of goldбн" Abel smirked, staring at the shining capital of gold of the Great Maganti Empire from the top of the distant mountain. "It''s beautiful, I must admit."

    He rocked his head, stretching his stiff neck while licking his fangs. He then ran his hands through his hair whileughing dryly with his lips closed. It took him three full days and nights to reach this ce from Haimirich.

    "Three days, huh? Well, that''s not bad if I want to see her once she returns to this ce." Abel smirked, narrowing his eyes as he set them at the towering castle situated at the top of the mountain. "Oh, he''s living the dream."

    A delightedugh slipped past his lips, watching someone from that distance. But the next second, the delight in his eyes slowly peeled off and showed the deep contempt hidden within.

    "Thatбн I''ve seen him many timesбн" came out a dark voice as the sound of bone cracking caressed his ears. Abel stretched his neck, producing a distinct crack, keeping his eyes on that manmitting debauchery with at least three women.

    "The first time you meet meбн" Abel pricked the tip of his forefinger, letting blood drip as he waved it up. That thin blood gushing out from his fingertip stretched until it looked like a bow made of literally hardened blood. He delicately pulled the red string without an arrow.

    "... will be yourst."

    He released the string without an arrow, but countless needle-like blood sped through the air. Abel smirked as the hardened bow evaporated into a thin, red mist. When he turned around to leave, a loud explosion happened on the east side of the capital.

    Abel halted and smirked, ncing over his shoulder. "If not for her, Maganti had be and of the dead already." He chuckled dangerously as he resumed his steps.

    "You better prepare a grand reception for my Aries'' return. Anything lessбн I''ll introduce you to the real face of hell."

 Chapter 135 Nows The Time

    Two days had passed since Aries''s training with Isaiah. Yesterday was hell. Despite all the preparation to fight, any muscle ached she felt sore everywhere. But it was bearable and she could move around now, albeit carefully.

    "Lord Isaiah didn''te yesterday and today so I can recover," she mumbled while replying to one of the invitations she received. Since she nagged Dexter, thetter agreed to let her check a few invitations to kill her boredom. He also prepared her some books she could read once she had nothing else to do.

    She smacked her lips, arms on the edge of the desk. She turned her head in the door leading to the balcony. It was left ajar, just in case Morro, Abel''s raven, woulde bringing his master''s letter.

    "Now that I think about it, I didn''t hear from him for days now." Aries frowned as it didn''t ur to her until now.

    Well, actually, it already crossed her head, but she didn''t dwell on it. She thought Abel was just busy; he was the emperor, after all. But still, ever since Aries stepped foot in the marquess''s estate, Morro never failed to visit her to deliver Abel''s letters and flowers.

    "It''s already the fifth night," she mumbled, pushing herself to stand to walk towards the balcony.

    As usual, Aries stood on the terrace with her hands on the railing, staring in the imperial pce''s direction.

    "Fifth night and no word from him?" Aries tilted her head to the side, narrowing her eyes suspiciously. "Was he waiting for me? I couldn''t visit him since my brother banned me from doing anything the past days, and then I was busy training and can barely get up the next day."

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips as her eyes glinted menacingly. "He didn''t forget about me now, did he?" the side of her lips curved down at the thought.

    Aries snapped her tongue as she blew her lips. "That was impossible..." she trailed off and her frown grew worse.

    "Was it?"

    This was one of the reasons she kept trying to distract herself and not think about it. Every night that would pass without hearing from him was adding weight to her heart. If not for her training under Isaiah and Dexter, distracting her by teaching her about poison, she wouldn''tst this long.

    "Did I do something wrong?" she wondered, thinking about herst interaction with Abel. That was the night of her debut. As far as she could remember, she and Abel ended on a good note. He even kissed her passionately before leaving.

    "Wait... did he hear about me copsing?" her brows furrowed as she looked in the pce''s direction with worry in her eyes. "But even if that is the case, he would''ve sent Morro in here. Even if the Marquess forbid any visit, he would find ways to contact me."

    Her head throbbed because the more she raised a question, she would answer it, and then asked a follow-up question. Aries frowned and clicked her tongue. If this was before, she would be relieved to have some peace of mind without Abel.

    But now... she was sad and worried. She couldn''t help but think about him, what he was doing, and who he was with. It was strange for her because she never thought she wouldn''t suddenly hear from him.<sub> </sub>

    "He should make sure he was simply busy with the state of affairs." She huffed, shaking off any thought that Abel was simply living the best of his life with another woman. Aries made sure she wouldn''t jump to that conclusion. But s...

    When Aries returned to her room and wrapped herself with the nket, she left a gap so her eyes could look at the balcony. She stared at it for as long as she could remember, waiting for Morro toe, or Abel to magically appear.

    Now she understood why Abel needed extra reassurance because she was also guilty.

    Their rtionship didn''t start as a magical tale. Abel took her in as his pet and Aries simply saw him as a person she must cling to survive. She used to say and do things for her survival, and he was the type to do things without conscience as long as it was fun. Not just by ughtering people, but also, Abel wasn''t the person who would feel sorry if he cheated on someone.

    With the kind of people they were and their impure track record, their trust for another was truly brittle. The two of them still had a long бк a very long way to go to build this trust.

    "I swear he will drive me crazy," she grumbled after an hour of waiting, but to no avail. Aries shut her eyes and clicked her tongue, forcing herself to sleep.

    <strong>*************</strong>

    "Lady Danie?"

    Conan whispered and froze, blinking as he gazed at the person entering the emperor''s pce. Aries was smiling as she looked around, ignoring the different gazes from men. As soon as her eyes locked with Conan, they glinted, making thetter gulp down a mouthful of saliva.

    ''She didn''t say she wille here today,'' he thought, taking a careful step back as she felt a bad omen about her surprise visit. As he did, Aries narrowed his eyes, and that was his cue to run away from her.

    ''Shit! Shit! Shit! Why is she looking at me as if she will interrogate whilst torturing me?! My gut feeling tells me I won''t like her questions!'' Conan gasped as he hastened his steps without looking back.

    As far as he knew, Aries was very discreet during her visit to the imperial pce. The reason she would directly go to the Rose Pce, where she would meet Abel. For her to enter directly through the entrance of the emperor''s pce, there must be a strong drive behind it.

    As Conan made a turn in the hallway, her face brightened up, catching Isaiah''s figure exiting a room. "Psst!!" he whistled, jogging his way towards Isaiah.

    The Grand Duke of Fleure furrowed his brows, turning his head only to see Conan glide to him. When thetter halted, Conan pped Isaiah''s shoulder with a light and quick tap.

    "Didn''t His Majesty say distract Lady Aries?" Conan inquired with an evil grin. "Now''s the time. Good luck!"

 Chapter 136 I Hate His Majesty

    "Now''s the time. Good luck!"

    With that being said, Conan hurriedly sprinted past him and in the fastest he could. Isaiah tilted his head, only to raise his eyes at the corridor where Conan came from. As soon as his eyes caught Aries, who was grinding her teeth, he finally understood why Conan was in a hurry.

    "Your Grace!" Aries called and grinned, but frowned when Isaiah looked away.

    ''I didn''t hear her,'' he told himself, turning his back against her and walking away. However, despite that he obviously ignored her, her quick steps resonated in his ears until she caught up to him. His expression was dead, hastening his speed, but she also did.

    It was not that Isaiah was afraid of Aries. The reason he was trying to ignore her was that he knew the reason she was here and the questions she had in store were something he didn''t want to answer. Didn''t Conan run away for the same reason?

    "Your Grace." Isaiah cast her a side-eye as she sported a bright smile until her eyes squinted. And yet, despite her amicable expression, the protruding vein in her temple was far too evident not to notice her facade.

    "Are you busy?" she asked warmly, while Isaiah kept his poker face.

    "Yes."

    "I see. Can I have a moment of your time?"

    His poker face slowly cracked as the corner of his lips curved down. His steps slowly came to a halt, epting the fact that he couldn''t avoid her. Aries wouldn''t leave him alone and it would be troublesome if he identally snap her neck.

    "Lady Aries." He breathed out, facing her squarely. "I can help."

    "Pardon?"

    "Whatever you want to ask, I don''t have an answer for it. However, I can help you catch Sir Conan," he offered solemnly, causing her eyes to dte. She didn''te in here to ask for someone to die, but Isaiah just made it sound like he would kill Conan at her behest.

    Aries cleared her throat, covering her lips with the back of her fist that was covered with a thinced glove. "Alright, then. I''m sorry for the trouble."

    "It''s alright." Isaiah secretly sighed in relief as he pointed in a certain direction. "Please wait for me in a drawing-room. I''ll bring him to you."

    Just when Isaiah thought everything was smoothened out, Aries shook her head. His forehead creased, watching the side of her lips curl up mischievously.

    "I''ll be waiting for Sir Conan in the storehouse behind the Rose Pce," she hinted with a smirk. "Bring him there."

    With that being said, Aries grinned from ear to ear and walked away. All he could do as she did was stare at her back, tilting his head. She was... evil. It was a good thing he offered his help because he knew Aries came today to meet her goal. She wouldn''t leave this ce empty-handed.<sub> </sub>

    "She''s bing like His Majesty," he muttered, peeling his eyes away from her back to catch Conan.

    **********

    The Rose Pce was just a quiet ce now. Ever since Abel ordered for everyone to desert the said ce, only for her to return, no one knew that Aries and Abel didn''t go on their separate ways that night. Instead, the Rose Pce had be a ''sad'' ce for Abel with the memories Aries left.

    That was the story that went around the maid''s quarters. Hence, Conan simply tasked a few maids to clean the ce a few times a week. After all, Abel and Aries preferred uninterrupted time together. Or rather, Abel would rampage if someone disturbed his time with his dearest Aries.

    In other words, there were only a few times a week there was a living soul in the Rose Pce. Today... wasn''t one of them. Hence, Aries didn''t find the need to move discreetly when she set her foot in the ce. She walked around freely, heading to the storehouse, where she told Isaiah where she would meet them.

    "Really... why are they trying to ignore me?" she grumbled, sitting on the old wooden chair inside the storeroom of wheat and other goods.

    From Conan and Isaiah''s reaction, they were definitely trying to hide something. What was it? Were they hiding Abel? The emperor should be d that Aries didn''t want to push her luck and barge to his office directly. Well, she was afraid too, because she was terrified that she would catch Abel in the act.

    "Really..." her eyes sharpened as her pupils constricted at the thought. Aries tried her best to not jump to conclusions. However, Conan and Isaiah''s reaction forced her to overthink.

    If she had a butcher knife in her hand, she would have been sharpening it already. Jealousy... was starting to settle in her heart and she disliked it more than anything.

    ''How can I train myself without him when all he wants is for me to think about him?'' she wondered and sighed deeply, shaking herself. No matter how she told herself she shouldn''t be too dependent on Abel, she couldn''t help but look for him. It didn''t matter if he would see her personally or send a letter. All she wanted was for him not to forget about her.

    "It''s not that easy," she whispered as her eyes softened with bitterness, biting her lips as she didn''t want this herself. She just couldn''t help it, and doing nothing about it would drive her mad. Surely, Abel''s effect on her was akin to an addicting drug.

    She was already hooked.

    CREAK...

    Aries closed her eyes as she took a deep breath upon hearing the loud creak of the entrance. When she opened her eyes once again, a menacing glint flickered across her eyes. She raised her head, catching Isaiah carrying Conan like a sack on his shoulder.

    Conan wriggled his body, but Isaiah bound his hands and feet behind him. A clothed also covered his mouth. When Isaiah heartlessly put him down like a sack, Conan let out a muffled protest, only to freeze upon catching the eyes of the devil.

    ''Lady Aries...'' his eyes dted, seeing the thickyer of darkness filling her eyes. ''... Your Majesty, I hate you!''

 Chapter 137 Thank God

    "God... look at him," Aries muttered, clicking her tongue while gazing at the pitiful Conan. She then nced up at Isaiah, letting out a shallow breath.

    "Your Grace, can you lend me a dagger?" she inquired, opening her palms calmly.

    <strong>"!!!!"</strong>

    Conan''s already dted eyes widened, even more, when Isaiah handed her a dagger, no question asked. Hisplexion instantly turned pale as his breathing hitched. When Aries smirked, his eyes shook while darting it between her and the dagger in her hands.

    "Thank you, Your Grace," she expressed, narrowing her eyes until they were partially closed. As she moved the dagger towards Conan, thetter let out a louder yet muffled scream as he wiggled on the dusty ground like a worm.

    Aries shook her head as she sighed. She never thought she would ever see Conan this pathetic. After all, he was still Abel''s legal advisor and he might act like a clown, but he still held power in this empire.

    She gazed up and red at Isaiah. Thetter tilted his head, baffled why he deserved her res.

    "I told you to catch him, but not like this." Conan froze as he felt the rope around him loosen. He looked back only to see her somber front, whilst cutting the rope around him.

    "Stay still Sir Conan. I might stab you identally." A brief smirk appeared on her face that forced him to not move a muscle. When she was done, she let out another sigh and nced up at Isaiah. Her frown was evident, ncing at the dagger before tossing it to the grand duke.

    "Thanks," was all she said before sliding down on the same dusty floor with Conan. "Sir Conan, what do I do? Did he forget about me already?"

    Conan jolted when Aries suddenly slumped on the floor, while Isaiah furrowed his brows. Now, thetter was truly relieved he dragged Conan here. He didn''t have the energy to be her best friend and give love advice. He''d rather rmend her a sword that could kill Abel in one strike.

    "Lady Aries, what are you talking about?" Conan gasped, opening and closing his mouth to massage his jaw. As he did, Isaiah silently left, as this was something he didn''t want to listen to.

    Aries nced at where Isaiah stood and when she was sure he left, she bent her knees, arms on top of it, and then her chin over her arms. Her lips curved down even worse, sulking as if she was going through a heartbreak.

    "Tell me the truth. Is he with another woman now?" she asked, biting her lower lip as hard as she could while keeping her teary eyes at Conan. Just one ''yes'' from him and the ocean of brine would flood her face.

    "What..." Conan shook his head, just to recollect his thoughts. "Lady Aries, what are you bbering about now? After ordering the grand duke to abduct me?! Why are you acting you''re more pitiful than I am?"

    Her frown grew worse. "I feel awful."

    "Huh?"

    "His Majesty hasn''t sent a word since forever. Is this how he ends his rtionships?" she cast him a dejected look.

    <o>,m Honestly, she didn''t reallye to question Conan and go hysterical. A part of her wanted to, but she wasn''t really like that. After seeing Conan''s pathetic state, she didn''t have the heart because they were both pathetic.</o>

    Conan scrunched his nose upon hearing herst remarks. Was this how Abel end his rtionships? <strong>Definitely not!</strong> Aries might''ve brushed it off when Abel told her he only does one-night stands in the past, but he wasn''t joking! Abel was a maniac, and no one came out alive after spending the night with him!<sub> </sub>

    "Did youe here because...?"

    "I''m sad," she continued the sentence for him, casting him a look of disinterest before burying her lower face in her arms. "I barely slept, wondering if I should start forgetting him or what?"

    "Lady Aries, wait. Aren''t you going too fast?" he gasped as that was quite a huge skip, clearing his throat as he adjusted so they were facing each other. "Wait, I''m utterly confused! What''s going on?"

    Aries batted her eyes, staring at his disheveled hair and a few specks of dust on his cheek, which she ignored. "What do you want me to do, then? Sulk? Like what I am doing now? And anger my brother? Who, is in fact, had the power to start a revolt to overthrow him?"

    "I mean, you should at least break up properly! For your own dignity! Or just make him know what he lost!"

    "So he''s really with someone else now?" came out a dead voice, making his face freeze. "Sir Conan, why would you give me such advice if that is not what is happening?"

    <strong>Oh, my god... </strong>

    Aghast, Conan held his breath as he nearly choked on his own breathing. He didn''t mean it like that!

    "No, I mean, I just went with the flow in the matter of "IF" that happened!" he exined, almost out of breath as he continued, "but I can reassure you that is not the case! There was an urgent matter where His Majesty''s presence and his undivided attention were needed!"

    Aries studied his aghast expression warily. "Really?"

    "Really! I promise! Cross my heart!" Conan raised his hand and then nted it on his chest. "I will ce my hand in my heart and promise you it''s nothing like that! He wants to leave a message, but he can''t!"

    She frowned before sighing in relief. Even though she barely believed Conan''s excuse, it was better than nothing. No one could stop Abel from sending her a letter, but well, perhaps it was truly important and he couldn''t waste a second to write a letter for her. That was what Aries wanted to believe, which she did.

    A weary smile turned up on her face. "That''s good to hear, then."

    "Lady Aries, I thought you want to kill me. That''s why I ran away." Conan also heaved a sigh of relief, shaking his head sideways.

    "How did you be the emperor''s legal adviser with that wild imagination?"

    "Hey, that''s my charm!"

    Aries and Conan looked at each other for a second andughed, realizing they were slumped on the dirty and dusty floor. They look like children, but he somehow calmed her down like a friend. When she recovered, they both dusted off their clothes and walked out of the storeroom.

    She didn''t have a friend. Aries had people, but only a few were actually her real friendsбн and they had already passed. But with Conan, who was the first person who came into her mind when her heart and mind couldn''t speak the samenguage, eventually бк without them realizing it бк became a good friend.

    It had been a whileбн but Aries thanked God for the first time in over two years.

 Chapter 138 Older Than Your Ancestor

    "So he is out of the Capital?"

    Aries turned her head to her left, where Conan was walking. Thetter was still fixing his disheveled hair while cursing Isaiah''s name through his gritted teeth.

    "Uh, yes, apparently." He nodded, holding the stiff portion of his hair that was peeking out like a horn. She pressed her lips, tilting her head while rubbing her chin.

    "That''s weird," she mumbled, treading carefully through the gravel path, connecting the Rose pce garden to the emperor''s garden. "If it''s important and His Majesty''s presence is needed, why are you here?"

    "Huh?" his brows rose, gazing at her and slowing down to match her pace.

    "Aren''t you the sovereign''s legal adviser? And the Duke of Fleure is his right-hand man?" She pointed out with innocence in her eyes. "Shouldn''t you be there with him?"

    "Ahh..." came out an awkwardugh, sporting aplicated expression. He didn''t want to lie to her because Aries was too kind for more betrayal.

    Conan let out a deep exhale as he looked ahead. "That''s because he flew."

    "What?"

    "He flew to a farawaynd all on his own and I had to die a few times a day every time a mountain of paperwork appear on my desk like magic." Aries chuckled, ignoring the first half of his sentence. He cast her azy side-eye, expression dead. "I''m not joking. I''m really saying the truth. That emperor бк tsk, he just does what he wants to do. It''s so hard to keep up."

    "Haha... you''re alive and that''s what''s important."

    "Right... I''m alive, barely, and just growing old without a wife. It''s thanks to my charming face that I don''t look old even though I''m older than your ancestor."

    Aries smiled and just looked at him. "You and everyone around His Majesty always say they''re older than my ancestor. Is that a saying in Haimirich? Or is it because you feel hundred times older than your age serving someone like Abel?"

    "You can say both; we''re older than your ancestor and also feel hundred times older than my actual age." He shrugged. Now he understood why Abel didn''t hesitate to speak the truth to Aries. Her mind automatically twists their words to make sense of what they were spewing.

    "If you''re older than my ancestor and your actual is the same as theirs, doesn''t that make you ancient? It''s amazing how you can still breathe," she humored with a yful chuckle before catching multiple figures ahead.

    Aries looked ahead as they passed by an arc connecting the Rose Pce and the Emperor''s Pce. As they did, the people from a distance grew clearer. Her steps slowly came to a halt. A group of noblemen was standing not far away, but her eyes remained on the person they were facing.

    Abel.

    The first thing she noticed was the dark bags under his pair ofzy eyes. He was staring at the noblemen with dead eyes, holding a crumpled dirty white fabric that seemed to be his missing top. Yes. Abel was talking to a group of noblemen wearing only his trousers while parading his perfectly sculptured top that was covered with ink.<sub> </sub>

    "Lady Aries, are you listening..." Conan halted as she stopped walking, furrowing his brows when she was just staring ahead. His eyes followed his gaze, only to see Abel arched a brow before shifting his eyes in their direction.

    ''Ah, that look...'' Conan cursed upon noticing the emperor''s expression. ''I knew it! He will be pissed if he goes to Maganti and leaves empty-handed... and why are those fools ambushing him?! Can''t they tell they only had seconds in this world?!''

    While''s Conan''s mind was busy grumbling, Aries could only stare at Abel as if she didn''t see him for years. It felt like she was finally seeing her husband, who returned from a decade-long war. But she couldn''t run to him because she was Danie. If they started talking, it would be problematic.

    Abel tilted his head while she kept her eye contact with him. But before any of them could turn their head to where he was looking, he raised a hand.

    "Turn your head and it''ll leave your neck." The nobleman froze as the emperor''s dark voice sent a chill down their spine. "You''re blind, mute, and deaf. Leave this area at once and if you take a peek, you and your entire family and the next ten years'' generation will all live without their eyes."

    He waved, motioning them to walk away without looking in where Aries was before he strutted his way towards her. As he drew closer, he wiped the corners of his lips, his glinting eyes on her.

    "Wait..." Aries wanted to step back as she nced at the frozen noblemen. But before she could react or stop him from approaching, Abel picked up his pace and soon reached her.

    "Wait, Ab..."

    Her words rolled back in her throat as her eyes slowly dted when he pulled her arm and wrapped her in a tight embrace. Her chin rested on his shoulder, eyes softening as she felt his racing heart against her body.

    "I thought you were dead," he whispered in a relieved voice. "They didn''t want me to see you, darling. I nearly ordered to set the marquess'' home on fire."

    Ariesughed, but her hands hesitated to wrap around him as the noblemen were still around the area. But smiled when his voice caressed her ears once again.

    "Hold me and don''t let me go, darling. They won''t look unless they want a death wish." She chuckled once again, believing him without question asked.

    Her heart felt full, slowly melting into the safety of his embrace, feeling his body under her palm. Now, she was calmpletely.

    "Wee back," she whispered, and all his fatigue seemed to magically disappear.

    "Mhm." He opened his eyes slightly, smiling subtly before pulling her closer. When he closed his eyes again, he leaned the side of his head against her.

    "I am... home."

 Chapter 139 The Only Time He Felt At Peace

    "So you came in here because you missed me?"

    Aries clicked her tongue and looked away from Abel. His head was resting on herp,zying on their usual spot in the Rose Pce''s garden.

    "Don''t look away from me, darling. I really thought you were dead." She gazed down, parading the ugly frown stered on her face while he raised his hand to pinch the tip of her ear. "Did you really miss me?"

    "I didn''t hear you for days," came out a weak protest, sighing at the dark bags under his eyes. Aries caressed it with her thumb gently. "You look tired."

    "That is because I was flying like a butterfly for days, darling."

    "Sir Conan also said you flew away."

    "That''s because I did?"

    Her frown grew worse, thinking Abel was trolling her. But she couldn''t get angry and could only sigh in defeat. She cupped his naturally contoured cheek and squeezed his handsome face mildly. It was unfair how he still looked good.

    "Why don''t you take a rest first?" she suggested softly. "I''ve never seen you look this exhausted. You should take care of your health, Abel."

    "I am the healthiest person you''ll ever meet in your life, darling."

    "Sleep." She closed his eyes with her palm, resting it there. There was no point in telling him what he should do. Aries figured she needed to use force if she wanted him to listen.

    "Darling, why is your palm trembling?" he inquired, linking his hand over his abdomen.

    "I... don''t know?" she whispered, staring at his lips with her palm while still covering his eyes. "Maybe it''s a post-reaction."

    "For?"

    "Fear." Aries pursed her lips and took a deep breath, raising her eyes to look at the warm view of the garden. "How can I go to the Maganti Empire if I''m going crazy with just a few days away from you?"

    Her eyes softened in bitterness, conflicted with her own feelings. She wanted their demise, but at the same time, it was hard to get separated from him. She was being childish, she thought, but then again, she knew that deep in her heart; she feared losing Abel.

    Aries lost too many people already. Losing another one would be herst straw.

    "Go on." Her brows rose when he repliedzily. "Let your heart speak. I want to hear it."

    "You don''t find it annoying?"

    "Why... would I?" the side of his lips curled up, imagining her expression in his head. "I like it."

    He liked how she craved his presence, just as how much he craved for hers. It was giving him butterflies in his stomach and it made him feel he was needed, longed for, and valued. No one sought him just because they wanted to be with him. There was always a reason a person would seek him.<sub> </sub>

    But she sought him solely because she wanted to spend some time and was worried when he didn''t hear from him. He liked it so freaking much and yet... only those three words, "I like it" were what left his mouth.

    Three words with hundreds... thousands of meanings.

    "I don''t know what to say anymore. I alreadyined too much." She pouted, thinking that she had beenining to him like a brat for some time now. She studied his closed lips and pondered about what to share. "Oh, do you want me to tell you a story?"

    "About a charming boy and a steaming hot potato?"

    "Forget about it." She clicked her tongue, fighting herself from flicking his forehead. "I''ve started my training under Lord Darkmore."

    "Mhm...?"

    "Did you know he nearly killed me? I really think he wants to sh me in half. If my brother didn''t intervene, I will be really dead!" Her words naturally flowed out of her mouth the more she told him the story of the days they weren''t together. More like a recap just so he wouldn''t miss a day.

    "Wait... is that the reason you were thinking I was dead?" her eyes slowly dted as her jaw fell.

    "Haha. No." He chuckled, crossing his arms with his eyes still closed.

    "Really?" she narrowed her eyes suspiciously but didn''t dwell on it as her eyes lit up. "Earlier today, His Grace abducted Sir Conan and carried him on his shoulder like a sack! I was angry at Sir Conan at first because he was avoiding me, but after seeing him in that state, I didn''t have the heart anymore..."

    As usual, Aries soon immersed herself in telling him what happened while he listened in silence. It didn''t matter if it was about her learnings from Isaiah''s training or her lessons about poison. She shared even the most menial things andined of how her muscle aches and how she waited for Morro the other night.

    Big or small, Abel listened and imagined everything as if he was there. By this, he didn''t miss a day without her. A subtle and rxed smile appeared on his face, listening to her voice until it slowly faded.

    Amidst her nonstop babbling, Aries suddenly stopped and gazed down. Her eyes instantly softened, seeing his clear and peaceful face fast asleep. Abel looked tired earlier, but now he was smiling subtly.

    ''This is the first time he looked sincerely kind,'' she thought because he would usually look like a beast that shouldn''t be disturbed even when he was sleeping. Not that there were many chances Aries had watched him sleep before.

    Since he was asleep already, Aries stroked his hair gently, humming a lovely tune. Her soft hums drifted along with the breeze as if the wind was dancing along with it.

    ''It''s amazing how we can be so content with something so simple,'' she thought, thinking that she was truly influenced by Abel. ''Hmm... definitely his influence since he... ironically, is quite content over simple things like this.''

    "Abel," she called and waited for him to respond, but he didn''t. So Aries pressed her lips and smiled, tucking her hair behind her ear.

    "I missed you."

    Little did she know, Abel, who was sleeping with his one eye open, heard the words he kept asking her to say. So when she confessed, it went straight to his polluted heart, purifying another small portion of it.

 Chapter 140 She Still Believed In God, But Now Thanking Him For Other Things

    Time was fleeting.

    Aries could still remember how she escaped her hell.

    She could still vividly remember how her heart pounded when she cut the rope that had bound her for years. How every breath felt like a second of her life was slipping from her grip at each step farther from her cage. And at how her body trembled, knowing that night could be herst or a turning point.

    Everything was still fresh in her mind. How the sliver of hope was easily squashed down by a mere smirk of another man.

    She thought... she believed nothing would change.

    That her life would be just as hellish as her life in the Maganti Empire.

    Who would have thought? That the cruel and sadistic tyrant would be her salvation? It was an irony. She could not help but wonder if the devil heard all her prayers because God hadn''t?

    ''God... it has been a while,'' Aries spoke in her mind, kneeling on the hassock of the pew, hands inteced in front of her face, eyes closed. ''In the past... I had so many questions such as, had you ever heard my screaming? Has my voice reached you? Or... was it so faint that you didn''t hear it? Oh, Lord, howe? Your child had suffered miserably. Why hadn''t you saved me back then?''

    ''I tried to be good and lived as someone worthy to stand in front of the pearly gates once the timees. Not just me, but my father, brothers, sisters, our people... they were good people. Why did they have to go through such a cruel fate?'' Her heart pounded against her chest, but her breathing remained calm. ''I prayed multiple times in a day. Even during the time I was in hell, I tried to seek you. I called for your help, yelling helplessly for you to save me. I needed you. I knew you were up there, but I needed you down here.''

    ''But you never came.'' Her tone grew bitter, feeling someone''s presence at her side. ''I think you didn''t hear my prayers, or perhaps you''re too busy. Even if I sometimes think that might be the case, I want to believe you didn''t mean to ignore them. Therefore, here I am, inside your house to send my prayers.''

    Aries''s train of thoughts took a brief pause. ''God, if you are listening, please heed my prayers, and may you protect the devil.'' A subtle smile turned up on her lips.

    ''He might not be the kindest, righteous, moral, or godly... but I sincerely pray that if you ever read all the pending prayers I sent you, this one is what I desire the most.'' Her eyes cracked open ever so tenderly. ''I won''t ever seek for your salvation anymore. Instead, I thank you for his existence. I had embraced the fact there is no room for me in heaven, but please... make an exception for Abel. The devil also needed salvation.''

    Aries stared at the huge cross over the altar, praying sincerely for Abel. It brought back those days she would be on her knees, or just lying t on her back after a traumatic night. Her prayers those times and now were surely different.

    Things had changed.

    She now doesn''t pray for her salvation, nor was she screaming silently for His help. Instead of demands, she wanted to thank Him for what he had created already. All she wanted now was the best for the devil who saved her. Now kneeling beside her while she prayed.

    Aries turned to her right, eyesnding on Abel''s side through the ck veil over her head. He was staring at the cross with a nk expression.

    "I used to frequent to this ce," came out a deep,zy voice as he carefully cast her a side-eye. "And mock God. That''s the entire purpose of this chapel."

    The side of his lips curled up as if it was something he should be proud of. At this point, Aries was no longer surprised. Instead, her eyes softened as she smiled.

    "Why are you kneeling now? What were you praying for, then?" she asked, peeling her eyes away from him to the cross.

    "Nothing," he answered almost yfully, letting out a faint exhale. "There''s no point unless hees down here and talks to me, face to face."

    His smirk stretched deviously as his eyes glinted while staring at the cross. "I used to think maybe, just maybe, if I killed every beloved child of God, will he finallye and stop the madness? But s, he seems busy. So here I am, still alive and kept sending everyone to heaven to send my word... but perhaps that is my purpose. The world would be too overpopted if no one acted to keep it bnced. Maybe that is why I lived this long, don''t you think?"

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed, tilting his head over to the side. "What about you, darling? I thought you were a heretic. It''s a little surprising to find you inside a chapel, praying so sincerely."

    "I was praying for the devil." He quirked a brow and cast her another look while Aries smiled, facing the altar. "I was praying for the person who kept sending His children back in his arms. I think he is doing a good deed."<sub> </sub>

    "Now that is what I called faith."

    Aries chuckled as she unlinked her hands and turned her head to face him once again. The two of them smiled at each other before Abel helped her stand up. As soon as she was up on her two feet, Abel held her arms between them.

    "Will you perhaps marry me?" he asked so casually.

    "Try again tomorrow." The side of her lips stretched yfully while Abel sighed.

    "You''re getting married and that sucks." He shrugged nonchntly, before holding her arm, and they marched through the aisle to leave the chapel. He knew he wouldn''t get tired of asking her hand for marriage, even when she was about to get betrothed to another. Not that it actually mattered.

    <strong>Aries was his, and only his. </strong>

    Meanwhile, Aries just wanted to hear him propose every once in a while. It was pleasant in the ear. He should understand since Abel never answered the question: <strong>what was Aries to him?</strong> The curiosity and the anticipation of the question were the fun part.

    As they approached the shut door of the chapel, Abel smacked his lips. "Darling, do you know I rushed to see you the second I heard you were visiting? Will you stay here for the night?"

    "Hmm... let''s see." She hooked her arms around his arm, hugging it as she walked closer to his side. "Depends. I had no ns on meeting you initially."

    "No ns on meeting me? Hah... the audacity." He frowned, raising a brow at this insult.

    Aries bit her lower lip to suppress her smile but to no avail. "Did you miss me? But it was only a week since yourst visit to the Marquess residence."

    "Only a week?" he inquired, stopping in his tracks to face her. He pulled her hands that were hooked around his arm, snaking his other hand around her waist to pull her body against his.

    "Did I miss you? Well, it won''t be an exaggeration if I say every second of my life, darling." He pinched her chin while he bent over. "But it seems you didn''t. You''re breaking my heart. I''m almost in tears. So mean."

    Aries chuckled as she rested her arms over his shoulders, linking her hands to his nape. "Should I be meaner so you don''t forget about me while I''m away?" she teased.

    "Oh, you''ll drive me insane."

    "And I''m fine with that."

    "Hah... let''s make out." She giggled as he closed in, tasting her as if there was no tomorrow.

    "Make it quick. My brother will be worried," came out a whisper, making him grin against her lips.

    "Screw him." He bit her lips, inhaling her breaths, wanting to take her breath away.

    Time surely flies because Aries had been living in the marquess estate for almost a year as Danie Circe Vandran. The noblest woman in the empire and to be betrothed with the crown prince from another empire.

    Time was ticking, and they should watch out for the womaning back, who crawled her way back to the surface of the world after getting dragged to the pits of hell.

 Chapter 141 [Bonus Chapter]Thanks For The 50 Golden Ticket!!

    Almost one year was definitely a lot of time, but not for Aries. In the past ten months, she had undergone intense training and absorbed all the knowledge taught to her like a sponge.

    She didn''t waste a day adjusting her schedule and adapting to the current to blend in. On top of her training under Isaiah, her lesson in the greenhouse with Dexter, readings with Conan, and passionate nights with Abel, Aries also blended in in the upper echelon.

    She gained a few influential nobledies as friends, captured the support of the many, and gained recognition and respect from men and women.

    "Nervous?" Aries snapped her eyes when Abel squeezed her hand as they walk into the garden. "Have I ever told you to never space out whenever you''re with me? But you keep doing that."

    "I was just thinking I will miss you once I spoke my marriage vows." She sported a meek smile, swaying their entwined hands back and forth lightly. "I mean, you and my brother''s banter dyed this wedding from happening. But we all knew this woulde."

    "Even when we spent more time than always, it just doesn''t feel it''s enough," she continued and smacked her lips bitterly. "I don''t want to leave you."

    "You''re not leaving me." He stopped treading and faced her while blinking countless times. "Should I change my mind, darling? I will immediately give my decree that the Maganti Empire is an enemy. Therefore, they must cease to exist. The ending will be the same, but it will be more convenient for me."

    "Just for you?"

    "Why, darling? Do you feel like this is an inconvenience for you? Think twice before you answer. I am an easy person to talk with."

    Aries pressed her lips and sighed, staring at the knowing look he was sporting. Abel had been vocal about his dislike for his own n, but he never stopped anything solely for Aries. He let things go on and even exerted an effort to exchange formal letters with the Maganti Empire without taunting them.

    ''Between him and I... Abel is also working hard for me.'' She smiled at the thought, reaching for his other hand which she sped gently.

    "Honestly, I will miss you, but I won''t miss this opportunity, Abel." She looked at him straight in the eye, showing a clear resolve in them. "Not in this lifetime. I promised you, didn''t I? I will return the pain a hundredfold. Haimirich will certainly win against the Maganti Empire, but a quick death is not what they deserve."

    Abel caressed her cheek with the back of his fingers. "That''s what I''ve been telling myself every time I speak your name during your absence."

    "I will return with glory." She leaned her cheek against his palm, holding it still. "I will not let every single one of them go."

    "That''s my girl." The corner of his lips curled up into a sinister smirk, brushing her lips with his thumb.

    Oh, how can she be so gorgeous? Even more mesmerizing now whilst hiding her tumultuous heart behind her calm front.

    "This will be fun," he remarked, chuckling with his lips closed.

    "The best is yet toe."

    "And I am looking forward to it."

    "You must." She grinned, biting her lips to hide her giddiness. "Bit by bit... I''ll have my fun this time around."<sub> </sub>

    "Don''t forget about me, you." He bent over until his face was a palm length away from her.

    She shook her head. "Never."

    "Good." His smirk stretched wider as he drew his head back, looking around at the beautiful scenery of the garden."I won''t be attending your wedding ceremony, nor do I n to send you off personally."

    "It''s fine. I''d rather not see you on the altar speaking my vows to a stand-in."

    Abel smacked his lips as he hissed, resuming in their stride, hand in hand. "I will visit you, though."

    "You will? In Maganti?" she chuckled, knowing the travel from Haimirich to Maganti would take months back and forth.

    "Obviously!" he snickered, casting her a side-eye. "I can''t survive months of not seeing your face or feeling your curves, darling. You already know that I''m a needy person. I need to see you every once in a while, else, I''d snap and before you know it, the Maganti is already on fire. I don''t want you to get caught up in fire."

    "You should send me off. I''d ride in your carriage." She tugged his hand, skipping her steps so she was ahead of him. Aries walked backward, facing Abel while holding his hand. "Sir Conan might throw a huge fit, but he always throws a huge fit anyway before getting things done."

    "My, my... you shouldn''t be so hard on him."

    "Don''t speak as if you don''t bully him on a daily basis!"

    "Oh, darling, I don''t! That''s nder!" Abel chuckled, smiling from ear to ear as they simply spent the rest of the day talking, making love, joking, and just ying. "Don''t run away. I won''t be nice once I caught you."

    He squeezed her hands, staring at her mischievous grin while she was walking backward, facing him. Aries surely knew how to calm his heart. Just this simple walk, where she wouldn''t care of what was ahead just to walk whilst facing him, was enough to fill his heart with nothing but warmth.

    Well, Aries trusted him. She knew he wouldn''t let her crash into something and if she would trip, he would catch her. Wasn''t that how it had always been? They wouldn''t stand with their back against each other just to protect each other''s backs.

    They would face each other and watch each other''s back. That was the kind of trust they built throughout their time together. The trust they had painstakingly built after driving each other to madness was now just as solid as a diamond.

    "Aries," he called after a moment of silence, stopping in the middle of the garden. Her brows rose, tilting her head as he pulled her hands gently to cup her cheek.

    "Don''t... let them hurt you. If you did, make sure it''s not something I will see even when you''re naked," he warned under his breath, staring at her straight in the eye without hiding the gravity of his warning. "Heed my warning."

    "I''ve been warned then." She smiled, fluttering her eyshes beautifully. "But I can''t promise. I need to improvise, so practicepromising a bit."

    "I alwayspromise."

    "I know, but do it anyway." She chuckled and stood on her toe, tilting her head to nt a kiss on his lips. "It won''t be fun if you say the party''s over."

 Chapter 142 [Bonus Chapter] Summoning Pens Answered

    "What?"

    "Yes! They said the emperor sent a royal decree to the House of Vandran and marrying Lady Danie off to another country!"

    "Oh, good lord! It''s a royal decree? Did His Majesty really lose --"

    "Shhh! Hold your tongue unless you want it to get cut."

    "But... if that is true, what is going to happen now? The aristocratic faction would surely oppose this order."

    The news of the emperor''s royal decree about Aries''s marriage to be the crown princess of another empire spread like wildfire. Every tea party, banquets, and secret gathering would always talk about this recent news. Aries was Dexter''s sister. Considering her status and birthright, people were specting she could be the empress in the future.

    The aristocrats were pushing her to be the empress. Well, it was obvious why, because an empress from the aristocratic faction would give them more power and influence. Moreover, Aries''s being the empress would truly put a good bnce in power... or could also threaten the power the emperor held.

    Some believed it would put a bnce while others argued the emperor''s action was to be predicted since it could threaten his authority. Despite all those spections, one thing remained in everyone''s head.

    What would be the marquess''s next action? This was obviously the emperor''s bold offense.

    Meanwhile, in the marquess''s estate, Aries and Dexter sat from across each other in his office at home. The atmosphere in the room, although they were silently drinking tea, was peaceful. Completely different from the heated conversations in most parts of the capital.

    "By the way." Aries cleared her throat, cing the teacup back on the coffee table between them. "I heard your party is angry about the news."

    "They are." Dexter leaned back, resting his arm on the armrest while holding his hands together. "They''d been pushing you to be the empress, pressuring His Majesty to take an empress. It''s worrying how they forgot what happened thest time they pressured him. People surely never learn."

    Aries chuckled at his fed-up reaction. "You never told me how you will resolve it, though. You can''t just agree so easily."

    "It''s a royal decree, Dani. Even if I am the leader of the aristocratic faction, I am still a citizen of Haimirich and a subject of His Majesty. In other words, I am but a toy who had a bit of value." Dexter shrugged, a little too nonchnt about his blunt remarks.

    "You make it sound like it''s bad."

    "Is it not?"

    Aries frowned as her shoulders lowered. "Thenбн how would you agree without angering anyone?"

    "Dani." Dexter looked at her thoroughly, as if appraising her value, until she tilted her head to the side.

    "Hmm?"

    "Dani, from a political perspective, your value is high. Even if you cannot be the empress of Haimirich, this marriage will still give our house advantages." He nodded with his lips closed. "Since it''s a royal decree under the facade of His Majesty being threatened by the growing power of the aristocrat, agreeing to it is inevitable. All I can do is gain more than I lost."

    "I hate politics," she mumbled, making himugh shortly. "But wellбн as long as it won''t put you in trouble."

    "I was never in trouble, Dani."<sub> </sub>

    "I''m just saying, alright?" she rolled her eyes, shrugging nonchntly. "I''ll be away for some time and I will miss you."

    He smiled subtly. "Don''t worry about me. You''re the one who is getting hitched to a piece of garbage." Despite the gentle smile stered on his face, his eyes glinted wickedly.

    "Daniбн make sure to let them feel your pain a hundredfold."

    "Pfft бк! I hear that a lot." Aries chuckled, shaking her head. Honestly, she didn''t know if they were bad influences or they simply wanted for her to get her justice. Either way, it was an eye for an eye and tooth for tooth.

    She hade this far and there was no backing down now.

    "That''s because they deserved it." Dexter shrugged nonchntly as he reached for the teacup.

    "I know. Isn''t that the reason I worked hard day and night?" her eyes this time glinted as she smirked, reaching for the cup of tea and raising her gaze over the rim. "My tutors aren''t the types to be taken lightly. It''ll be a disappointment if I didn''t learn from all of you."

    Dexter taught her everything she needed about poison. Gustav had been teaching her techniques in brewing tea. She trained extensively under Isaiah, and Conan helped her broaden her knowledge of the Maganti Empire.

    Although Aries lived in that empire for two years as a ve, she was barely involved in politics. So, she still needed information on who to watch out for and the current state of affairs.

    And then Abel for emotional support. Well, she could say Abel taught her seduction and trained her stamina. Thanks to him, she could exercise evente at night.

    "I''m somehowбн thrilled," came out a whisper as she ced the teacup back on the sauce and cast Dexter a knowing look.

    "I feel mixed emotions."

    "You behave here once I set off." She red at him, thinking that she kept telling this to everyone. Dexter was the least of the people she was worried about. The one that truly needed to behave was Abel and Conan.

    Dexter raised his hands. "Those reminders shouldn''t be directed to me."

    "I would think so tooбн if this was before." Aries rolled her eyes, making him chuckle charmingly.

    Aries shook her head and sighed, but chuckle shortly after. Her days in Haimirich had be like this, peaceful and stress-free, prepared for the uing events that were approaching.

    It was thosest peaceful days before Aries stood in front of the altar, marrying her groom''s shadow in a ten-minute ceremony, and setting off to the ce that gave her hell.

    She wasing back to that hell in the beautiful white bridal dress she promised to dye in red once she returned to the Haimirich Empire. Thatбн would be her trophy.

    The emperor of the Haimirich Empire wouldn''t ept anything less, after all.

    <strong>бк End of Volume 1 бк</strong>

 Chapter 143 The Bomb Was Ticking

    <strong>Volume 2: PROLOGUE</strong>

    Aries and Dexter stood by the entrance of the House of Vandran, receiving the royal decree the emperor sent to their estate early in the morning. Behind them were Gustav, the head butler, and several servants who were confused by this sudden visit.

    "... under the orders of the sovereign of Haimirich, hereby dere Lady Danie Circe Vandran''s betrothal with the crown prince of the Maganti Empire..."

    Whispers and murmurs and gasped caressed Aries''s ears, but her aloof expression didn''t change. She had always known this woulde, and she prepared for it day and night.

    "Do you acknowledge His Majesty''s benevolence?!" asked the royal messenger after reading the royal decree to the Vandrans''.

    Aries snapped her eyes and took a deep breath, ncing at Dexter only to see his unsmiling visage. His eyes were sharp, glinting with anger, but she knew it was for the act. Dexter was angry... he was angry at the people who wronged her and at the sheer thought of Aries setting foot on thatnd once again.

    "Acknowledge." Dexter''s jaw tightened at the viceroy''sst remarks, closing the parchment in front of him.

    "I.."

    **

    "I... do." Her eyshes fluttered ever so tenderly, snapping out of her trance, revisiting how fast everything happened. It hadn''t been a month since Dexter acknowledged the royal decree and now she was standing in front of the altar, marrying her groom''s ring.

    It was customary that Aries and her groom should get married in the Haimirich Empire before she would set off to get married under the Maganti Empire''sw. But because of the crown prince''s disposition, he couldn''t just go to another empire for his own safety.

    Therefore, it was no surprise that her groom''s stand-in was his essory.

    This marriage was an insult to their party бк the aristocratic faction бк that Aries requested for a short ceremony. It was to show their displeasure at the emperor''s abuse of power. But Aries and only a few already preferred it this way.

    Everything was just for show... everything since the beginning and they had been ying their part perfectly.

    "I now pronounce you... husband and wife," said the wedding facilitator, clearing his throat at his hands trembled. He didn''t even announce the long-awaited ''you may now kiss the bride,'' afraid that would be thest words he would say.

    The only guests of Aries''s wedding were her brother, some noblemen in the aristocrat faction that was close to the marquess, and some people from the imperial factions such as the imperial advisor, Conan.

    The atmosphere was thick and was growing abundant. None of them pped, even when the ceremony reached the end. It was worse than a funeral.

    Aries picked up the jade ring ced on top of the stand beside her. She carefully kept it in between her thumb and index, staring at it through the white veil covering her face.

    ''This ring...''

    Memories... painful memories in the past shed before her eyes while staring at this familiar jade ring. The ring she would often see everything that man''s hands approach her. Those hands... that seemed to grow bigger every time she watched them touch her, letting this jade ring graze her body.

    ''... is only the beginning of what I will take from you.'' Aries carefully wore the ring on her forefinger, taking her precious time, as this same thing, would also be something that the crown prince would look at with eyes full of fear.<sub> </sub>

    Watching Aries from his respective seats, Conan snapped his eyes and nced at Dexter from the opposite side of the ceremony room. Thetter''s eyes were burning, fixed on Aries''s figure as she wore the ring with such deep hatred burning in her eyes.

    ''I''m worried,'' Conan thought, peeling his eyes away from Dexter to Aries. ''His Majesty is like this. I''m afraid they''ll kill them all before we can even proceed with the n.''

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips, recalling the look in Abel''s eyes before he left him to attend the wedding. Unlike Dexter''s eyes, which reeked of bloodlust, or Aries''s, which were burning in anger, Abel''s eyes wereбн empty.

    Not the kind of emptiness that was mncholic or shocked. The emperor''s empty eyes wereбн dreadful. Conan had seen that look in Abel''s eyes many times, that look in his eyes he usually bore during his devastating onught.

    ''The Coven is approaching again. It''ll be a massacre now that Lady Aries will be away.''

    ******

    Imperial Pce: Throne Hall

    ''Don''t go, don''t go, don''t go, don''t let her go, stay, stay, don''t goбн''

    Abel closed his eyes as he breathed out heavily to shun the voices inside his head. Aries was marrying someone else right at this second, and he was locked in the throne room, knowing how fickle he was.

    It was harder than he calcted. The voices in his head wouldn''t shut up since three nights ago, keeping him from sleeping.

    "Isaiahбн" he dawdled, keeping his eyes shut, stretching his neck in a slow circr motion. "Burn that wretched empire."

    "Lady Aries is already the crown princess of the Maganti Empire, Your Majesty," reported Isaiah, standing on the far side of the throne. "Burning the Maganti Empire right now, we will automatically proceed with the propaganda on why they deserved itбн and Lady Aries would have to face consequences as well."

    "Burnбн burn... Ahбн" Abel slowly opened his eyes as he stopped mumbling. "Right. Aries just got married and is now the crown princess of anothernd."

    Isaiah took a deep breath, noticing the shift in Abel''s tone. Although calm, Isaiah was uncertain what would be the unpredictable emperor''s next move. Would he stop it now? That was something the emperor would do.

    "Move up the date of the coven." To his surprise, Abelughed as he cocked his head in his direction. "I need some calming."

    "Your Majesty иC" Isaiah had to hold his breath when Abel suddenly appeared in front of him faster than a blink.

    Abel bent over to the duke''s side, hands inside his pockets. "Blood. I need more if you don''t want me to massacre everyone on the continent and start anew in the ruinednd of Rikhill." He smirked, nting a hand on Isaiah''s shoulder.

    "Good. And prepare me a steed. I need an excuse." He squeezed Isaiah''s shoulder lightly before patting it, walking away with the same devious smirk on his lips.

    As he did, Isaiah could not help but look back and watched the emperor''s back.

    ''He already set his eyes on Rikhill,'' he thought as his eyes darkened, rmed by Abel''s remarks. ''This year''s coven will be bloody.''

 Chapter 144 Who Sent You?

    As a marriage custom agreed by both empires, Aries would have to journey without taking off her veil publicly and would always, and at all times, be left alone. Unless she needed the assistance of herdy servant. No one could join her in the carriage while the envoy from the Maganti Empire and the soldiers of the Haimirich Empire protect her carriage with their lives.

    Anything could happen on the way, so the security was tight only escorted by the elite knights of both empires.

    "He really didn''t send me off," Aries whispered, sliding her finger in the curtain to peek. "The night is about to fall."

    She slowly retrieved her hand upon seeing that they would enter a town to rest for the night. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, leaning back, tilting her head back, eyes closed. Her heavy dress was the least of her concerns.

    This would be a very long journey and she would have to stay inside the courage at all times. It would be better if Gertrude were with her.

    "I feel a little sad..." she breathed out, thinking that after her wedding, she barely had enough time to change into something more fortable'' and bid everyone goodbye. "... I still miss him."

    Her rtionship with Abel was a rocky path. Even when they shared too many passionate nights and days, there was just something that would trigger each other''s heads that would drive them mad about something. It took quite some time before they started trusting each other''s heartspletely.

    Still, Aries missed Abel. She couldn''t help it.

    No matter how they spent each day together as if it was thest, this void in her heart was growing distinct. Perhaps that was because she didn''t have anything else to do but thinkбкnot about Abel, but about that ce, Maganti Empire. Hence, her mind would automatically shift to Abel, since he was the best thing that happened to her... and he was also handsome too. He was the perfect distraction.

    "Magantiбн" Aries gazed down, staring at the jade ring around her index. She caressed it with her thumb, eyes dropping until they were partially closed.

    "It still feels surreal," she added under her breath.

    Although Aries had been preparing for her return to her husband''s country, it hadn''tpletely sunk into her. Even right at this second, she still couldn''t believe that this was happening. There were times she would wonder if this was simply a dream or a nightmare.

    "I don''t even know what to feel yet." бк there were just too many emotions wrestling in her heart, fighting for dominance. "I don''t even know where to startбн"

    Her unresigned expression gradually sharpened. Her throat moved as she gulped, taking a deep breath, thumb still caressing the jade ring.

    "But I know perfectly well who would go first." She blinked elegantly, turning her eyes away from her ring. "Inez Imperial."

    Aries propped her jaw against her knuckles at the mention of that woman''s name. It had been a while since she spoke someone''s name in the past. But she already had their names listed down. Everyoneбн in that ce who took advantage and took pleasure in her misery would pay one by one.

    Inez, the pampered ninth princess, would be the first.

    Back in the said empire, the crown prince wasn''t the only one who put Aries through hell. Ariesбн she was no more than a toy, which the crown prince could let his siblings borrow. She didn''t even want to think about what they made her do or what they did to her.

    But Inezбн was the worse.

    "Hahбн I can''t wait to meet her," Aries muttered, eyes glinting with contempt, thinking about that smug smirk on that woman''s face and her evilughter.

    She remained silent for a long time until the carriage came to a halt. Aries arched a brow as she heard a knock, followed by a man''s voice, telling her they had arrived at their first stop.<sub> </sub>

    Aries didn''t respond, knowing she didn''t have to. <strong>''Soonбн''</strong> she uttered internally before Gertrude came to assist her in the noble house, who would amodate Aries''s entourage for the night.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    "Mydy, if you need me, I..."

    "Gertrude." Aries cast Gertrude a look, sitting on the edge of the mattress. Thetter was still standing, hands on her abdomen, with her head slightly lowered.

    "You don''t have to worry so much. I''m alright."

    Gertrude pursed her lips and lowered her gaze. She was aware of Aries''s ns but only the general knowledge. So, she couldn''t help but get worried about many factors.

    "We''ve been on the road the entire day. You should rest as well. I don''t want you to fall ill just before we arrive in my husband''s home," Aries''s voice was soft and kind, but behind her gentle eyes hid something chilling.

    "Then, please rest well, Your Highness." Gertrude shed a weak smile before bowing, walking away without making a sound.

    click...

    Aries blinked ever so tenderly as she watched the door closed with a soft click. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, turning her head in the window''s direction. It was a good thing that Dexter''s influence stretched even to thest country of the Empire.

    She didn''t have to look for inns, because every town, an ally of the aristocrat leader, would wee Aries as their guest.

    "Brother''s influence is more amazing the more I think about it," came out a whisper, smiling, before tucking herself into sleep.

    Due to a tiring journey, it didn''t take long for her to fall asleep.

    The night was silent, more cid than any other night. As the night grew deeper and her breathing grew heavier, the sound of a soft creaking from the window sounded incredibly loud. The soft wind blew inside her room at the same time a footnded on the floor.

    In the dark, the towering figure carefully approached Aries, who was sleeping soundlessly on the bed. A hand slowly approached her throat, but the second her breath hit his skin, her eyes popped open.

    Aries didn''t waste a millisecond as she instantly wrapped her legs around his arm, jumping on top of him, right after taking out a dagger under her pillow. A glint flickering across her eyes, staring down at the intruder like a beast who was disturbed during her sleep.

    "Who sent you?" came out a shaking, full voice.

    "My... libido."

    She blinked twice as Abel''s familiar voice caressed her ears. The side of his lips curled up yfully, hand in front of his throat, holding the dagger''s de that nearly impaled his neck.

 Chapter 145 Honeymoon With Her Not-So-Secret Lover

    "My... libido."

    Abel smirked as he watched Aries snap out of her half-conscious state. Her brows wrinkled at the center, blinking twice to make sure she was seeing things correctly.

    "Abel?!" her face brightened up and her eyes twinkled with excitement.

    "The one and only." His smirk stretched, raising his brows, and puckered his lips towards the dagger. Aries snapped her eyes as she jolted back, still saddling him. She grimaced when her eyesnded on the dagger and his hand wrapped around its de.

    "Sorry," Aries awkwardly smiled while Abel grinned yfully.

    "Oh, darling. My heart is in deeper pain than my hand," he expressed dejectedly, pinching the dagger''s tip while he opened his other hand. "How can you not know it''s me? I don''t think this is true love."

    "I never said I love you."

    Abel blinked once before he snorted. "Then say it."

    "If I refused?" she grinned yfully, biting her lower lip to stop it from stretching.

    "Then more fun." Without a second hesitation, Abel held the dagger once again to pull her down. Aries gasped when the daggernded one inch from his temple. Her heart skipped a bit, but before she could process what had just happened, his hand crawled on the back of her head, pulling her down.

    "ytime," he whispered before lifting his head to close the gap between them.

    Aries''s eyes dted when her lips smashed against his. She snapped back to the currentpse when he bit her lips, devouring her hungrily. Her eyes softened before they closed slowly, melting into the safety of his embrace.

    "Abel," she whispered, grinding her hips against his bulge. "I thought you said you won''t see me off?"

    "I missed you," he moaned his excuse into her lips, flipping their position, keeping his hand on the back of her head. But before he could hungrily take her, Aries patted his shoulder de.

    He frowned, pushing himself a bit to look at her. "What?" he tilted his head slightly.

    "Your hand," she muttered, ncing at his wounded hand that was on the sheet.

    "It''s fine. Let''s con..." Abel rolled his eyes, about to continue what they should be doing, only to trail off when she raised her finger to his lips.

    p "Abel." Her voice modted as her eyes widened. "Let''s treat it first, alright?"</anda>

    Abel stared at her with an unresigned expression, but in the end, he simply sighed and clicked his tongue. "Fine."

    He pushed himself off of her, her hand on his chest as she also sat up. Abel cocked his head back, sitting on the edge of the mattress, fluttering his long and thicksheszily.

    "Make it fast." He breathed out as he held his bleeding hand to her.

    "Are we in a hurry?" she asked after ringing the bell to call for Gertrude. "How did you even follow me? Lord Isaiah should be watching you."

    Abel averted his eyes and spoke. "Isaiah is a bad influence. He was the one who prepared my steed to follow you."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty." Her eyes narrowed suspiciously, searching for his elusive eyes. "You''re not nning to ask me to stay, are you?"

    "Of course... not!" he gasped dramatically. "But if I do, will get angry?"

    "No."

    "Really? Should you stay, then?" he arched a brow while the side of his lips stretched. Aries studied his face for a second before she shrugged.

    "Should I? I sort of think the journey is quite boring. I mean, Gertrude can''t even join me in the carriage, Minerva can''t see me, and basically nothing else to do than sit inside the carriage all day." A deep exhale slipped past her lips, shaking her head mildly. "I needpany, needless to say."

    "Then yourpany is here. Perfect." He batted his eyes coquettishly, charming her with his devious smirk.

    Aries nced at him and then tilted her head. "You?"

    "Don''t you want me to?"

    "How about Haimirich?"

    "Wasn''t this Conan''s main purpose? So I can go anywhere and anytime I want without worrying about Haimirich?" Abel argued in a matter-of-fact tone, shrugging indifferently. "He should step down if he can''t do that."

    Her mouth opened and closed, but her words were stuck in her throat. In the end, Aries just shook her head lightly and nced at the door when Gertrude knocked and peek her head in. Gertrude''s eyes dted upon seeing the emperor, but Aries didn''t give her a chance to speak her formal greeting when Aries asked for a first aid kit.

    "Take that off before I cut your finger." Aries''s brows furrowed as she set her eyes back to him, only to see him gazing down at her hand бк at her jade ring, to be exact. When he snapped his sharp eyes up at her, a glint flickered across them.

    "Just the sight of it angers me. We all don''t want that."

    Aries raised the finger with the ring in front of her. She pressed her lips into a thin line, eyes on it. She stared at it for several seconds, making Abel quirk a brow. When she raised her gaze over the finger and in his eyes, a subtle smile dominated her face.

    "I can''t lose this jade, Abel." Her eyes fluttered ever so tenderly, gaze falling back on the jade ring around her index. "This... jade is my constant reminder it witnessed everything and when I say everything... every single thing they had done to me and what they made me do."

    Her chest moved in and out heavily, holding his gaze with her eyes sharpening. She didn''t want to take it off now, afraid she would lose it before it could fulfill its purpose.

    "Huh... how annoying." he clicked his tongue, but he only rolled his eyes and didn''t force her. He had beenpromising all this time, so what''s another time he would adjust for her.

    "Abel." Aries cajoled and moved closer, sitting beside him, and slipped her arms around his torso, the side of her head against his shoulder. "I''ll just cling to you like this so you don''t see it. Is that alright with you?"

    He nced down with a mild frown. "Shame on you, Potato. How dare you y with my innocent feeling without remorse?" she snickered at his usation, but Abel didn''t whine about it again.

    Her first night after her wedding turned out to be phenomenal. Although the man she married today was someone she loathed to the core, the man she spent the night with was magical.

    A fair trade.

 Chapter 146 Husband And Wife

    "I miss green."

    Aries raised her eyes, seeing Abel y with the tip of her golden hair. She was sitting on hisp, her dress barely hanging on her body after an intimate moment with him inside the carriage. It had been over two months since she started her journey to the Maganti Empire.

    Abel stayed.

    So, Aries and Abel got to spend two more months together. To be honest, two months still felt like two days for them. They enjoyed their journey, very unlike what she expected. His presence helped her calm down.

    "Me too." She smiled, resting her head over his shoulder. "But I''m also getting used to blonde."

    "Don''t. I''ll shave your head."

    She chuckled while closing her eyes to rest. "Please don''t." Aries breathed out before her eyes opened gently.

    "We''re almost there," she whispered. "Will you visit me?"

    "I told you, I will."

    Her lips curled up into a subtle smile. "Morro might get shot down by an arrow if it enters the royal pce."

    "Morro has his ways." He smirked, massaging the exposed part of her back. "I''ll keep in touch, darling."

    Abel lowered his head and nted a kiss on top of her head. It was a long journey that only felt like hours. He never knew he would evere to a point in his endless life that he would cherish every second as if he was dying the next day.

    Threatening Isaiah and moving the coven ahead of time was worth it.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. "I''m a little tired, but I don''t want to sleep."

    "You should, darling. You might not get a wink of itter."

    "Even so, I want to spend one more second with you. I don''t want to waste it." In contrast to her affectionate and warm words, she hid a re behind her closed lid. "I need more of you to remind myself... I have you."

    "Hah..." Abel smirked, getting a gist of her vague remarks. "You truly know how to make me happy, darling."

    He pulled her body against his, holding her securely in his arms while showering her with kisses. As he did, the side of his eyes narrowed and sharpened. He knew he shouldn''t exhaust her even though behind her lean body hid trained muscles.

    But then again, how could he send her to another man without her reeking of him?

    "Aries... don''t forget you are mine," he stressed each word under his breath after the prolonged silence. "Just... mine."

    If this was before, Aries would scoff in ridicule. But now, a subtle smile turned up on her lips as she gazed up to face him.

    "Yours." She yfully bit her lips and moved her face closer to im his lips.

    As the two engaged in another fervent kiss, certain people at her destination бк the Maganti Empire бк were preparing to meet the crown princess.

    <strong>[Princess''s quarters: Lazuli Pce]</strong><sub> </sub>

    Ady with naturally bright auburn hair sitting dainty on the intricate chair in the middle of the greenhouse. She gracefully ced the teacup back on the saucer, silver eyes glinting. The other princesses around the beautiful table hid their snicker behind their fans.

    "The crown princess... I heard a lot about her," came out a voice full of contempt, raising her sharp argent eyes at the princesses around her. The side of her lips curled up into a cunning smirk.

    "I hope she won''t disappoint. I just lost a toy recently." The giggles of the otherdies resonated, eyes burning with anticipation for the crown princess, their sister-inw''s arrival.

    "I can''t wait to meet her."

    ******

    <strong>[The Crown Prince''s Quarters: the Sapphire Pce]</strong>

    "Your Highness, His Majesty summons you to his sr."

    A man holding a handleless teacup raised his pair of deep-set, ashen eyes at the servant bowing by the door. The side of his thin lips curled up, highlighting his defined cheekbone and jaw.

    "I guess everyone is excited to meet my wife," came out an alluring voice, licking his lips before guiding the teacup towards it. His Adam''s apple moved down when he gulped, hissing in satisfaction.

    He flung his hands, showing his perfectly tanned skin as he stood up from hiszy posture. As he faced the servant, his smirk grew eerie as he spoke, "lead the way," which the servant abided.

    Following the servant, his sharp grey eyes flickered with anticipation.

    Not just the royal family of the Maganti, but everyone across the empire was looking forward to the crown princess. Some for good wishes, but others for... something else. Either way, the empire had been thrice as busy these past several days as the crown princess'' carriage approach.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    After the long wait filled with anticipation from both parties, a few dazzling members of the royal family, along with the crown prince, stood outside the inner pce to wee the crown princess''s entourage.

    Their eyes nced over the knights from the Maganti Empire and the ones from Haimirich. The dered numbers of knights from Haimirich who escorted the carriage were stillplete. However, those from the Maganti... only five returned.

    Whatever happened on the way, no one cared. Whether these knights purposely offed their people or the soldiers from the Maganti Empire simplycked in survival skill, the former were now in their territory. No one would also question if the people from Haimirich decreased in numbers.

    The tension in the air grew thicker when the crown prince''s aide opened the door of the carriage.

    "Wee home, my crown princess," the crown prince greeted in a low voice, offering his hand to assist her. He quirked a brow when a slender hand as fair as snow underneath her whiteced gloves reached for his hand.

    When she sped his hand, Aries squeezed it until she was out of the carriage. As soon as she stood on her stature, the crown prince held her hand, bending over to kiss the back of her hand.

    "I''m honored to have finally met you, wife." His eyes were sharp, keeping it to the white veil covering her face.

    The woman, staring back at him through the veil, didn''t feel the shred of fear his eyes were intending to instill in her from the get-go. Instead, her red lips бк the only part of her face that was exposed бк curled up into an alluring smirk.

    "As you should," came out a sweet voice, speaking thenguage of Haimirich.

 Chapter 147 Keen To Destroy Him

    "As you should."

    Aries smirked as she recalled how the trantor from the Maganti Empire tranted her arrogant remarks to something pleasant in the ear. This was one of the real reasons Dexter wanted her to live in the marquess'' residence.

    Not only did she need to know the value of the Vandran name, but she also had to experience it. So, she could trulyprehend her value in society. The reason she fearlessly returned her husband''s warm reception.

    The trantor wouldn''t literally trante everything, knowing this marriage was an insult to the House of Vandran. And Aries was the renowned noblest woman in Haimirich, who was also fit to be the empire''s empress if not for the tension between the aristocrat and imperialist. So it was to be expected that she was fearless and wanted to retaliate.

    Knowing her still husband-to-be the crown prince of the Maganti Empire, if the trantor didn''t intervene with her reply, he wouldn''t sit still and do nothing. They had to keep the friendly rtionship with Haimirich Empire for now, and hurting Aries would benefit no one.

    It could be a reason to start a war. Dexter, the marquess, was not someone to mess with.

    "In the eyes of thew and God, this union..." Aries fluttered her eyshes ever so slowly, ncing up to see the priest read formalities for this political union. Yes. Just an hour after she arrived, she had to walk down the aisle and marry the crown prince under the Maganti Law.

    ''How tiring.'' She fought the urge to yawn at this long ceremony, sitting in the middle of the vast wedding hall. Next to the white intricate chair she was sitting on was the crown prince. She shot him a side-eye, catching a glimpse of him staring at the people across the long rectangr tableбкbetween the bridegroom and the priestsбкfacilitating this wedding like they were reading contracts.

    Their guests were drawn from the empire''s most esteemed and respected families. Each and everyone were individual Aries had studied extensively with Conan. Some of them approved of this marriage, while others did not disapprove but came to see whether the crown princess could be a formidable ally.

    ''I miss Abel,'' was her first thought, and peeled her eyes from the man beside her. ''I should''ve slept just as he advised.''

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips, keeping her spine straight, and shoulders leveled, being a model of her own decorum. Despite her seemingly reserved demeanor, her mind drifted to the days before today.

    Abel wasn''t careful throughout their journey. Hence, some knights from the Maganti Empire spotted him and Aries. The end of those poor soldiers was obvious. Only five returned бк five smart knights бк who were smart enough to not pry about the disappearances of their colleagues.

    The knights from Haimirich were already aware of the emperor''s presence on their journey. But no one spoke a word about it. Unlike the soldiers from the Maganti, the soldiers from Haimirich already knew what kind of sovereign they served.

    The emperor would kill his enemies and allies without a second hesitation.

    ''It''s disgusting... here,'' another faint breath escaped her nostrils, her emerald green on the cascade bouquet she was holding on herp. Her jaw tightened, but her grip remained rxed.

    Before she parted with Abel, they held each other as if unable to bear a moment without touching. She already missed his touches, how his rough palm felt against her body, squeezing her just to leave his warmth. The ticklish sensation and butterflies in her stomach whenever he whispered sweet nothings and scious remarks in her ear.<sub> </sub>

    His bites, a curious amalgam of his sadistic tendency and sincere affection. Her body could still feel his weight nketed over her, his inked chest pressing against her as he thrust slowly, to feel her every stretch and to make her feel him whole.

    Oh, Abel... he truly knew how to make her mad.

    His game of giving generously, but almost barely enough, left her wanting for more. She was certain if he was here, watching her fantasize about him amidst her royal wedding, he would find ways to tease her.

    ''I hope he returns safely,'' she whispered in her heart, tucking away all the distractions at the back of her head as the head priest stood. She watched him walk over to the bride and groom, stopping in front of them to give his blessing for this union.

    "This union marked the beginning of not only two hearts bing one but also the establishment of a blessed alliance between the Maganti Empire and the Haimirich Empire," said the priest, motioning his hands between Aries and the crown prince. It took a lot of self-control for her not to snort.

    The hypocrisy of these people and their contemptuous gibberish turned her stomach. Maybe it wasn''t just the twittering of the priest, nor it was the staid gravity in this royal chapel, that the knot in her stomach kept tightening with decreasing intervals.

    It was this ce. That fact that she was now back in this ce, with this cursed man speaking his vows, and all these people sitting behind them with their prying eyes, paved the way for reality to sink in. It made her sick.

    Her chest moved heavily as she slowly took steps to face his groom. Until now, he hadn''t seen the beauty hidden behind her white veil. Standing face to face with him once again, her heart pounded against her chest as myriads of memories shed before her eyes when she heard the priest announce, "you may now kiss the bride."

    All the silent screams, the inexplicable angst, the countless deaths of the innocent, the flood of blood, the haunting and endless nightmares rewound in her head in a sh. As the veil was halfway through her face, Aries''s eyes were burning, pupils constricted.

    And yet, when her now-husband, the crown prince, lifted off the veilpletely, the turmoil raging within hid behind a stunning smile matched with a pair of shimmering opalescent eyes.

    <strong>SILENCE...</strong>

    ''Well, hello there, husband.'' A glint flickered behind her eyes, staring at the stunned crown prince and listening to the gasp resonating inside the chapel from their esteemed guests.

    ''I... your favorite is back.''

    They''re not married under the Maganti empire''sw;",

 Chapter 148 Nothing Happened

    "What is going on here?" ady whispered to anotherdy curiously. "I do not understand the suddenmotion." бк or rather, the abrupt silence and the long pause of the groom from sealing the union.

    Thedy beside her leaned over and whispered in her ear whilst covering it with her fan. Thedy, who was unaware of this unspoken tale of the crown prince''s favorite "trophy," widened her eyes, listening to the causerie.

    "Oh, good lord," she gasped and covered her gaping mouth. She cast the otherdy a knowing look, while the former nodded and ced a finger in front of her lips to warn her a word about it.

    Apparently, the face standing in front of the crown prince of the Maganti Empire was someone very familiar. Changing the color of her hair to a dazzling, lush green, she would be ''that'' foolish woman.

    That foolish woman who led her soldiers to their death, that foolish woman who would rather lick the ground than kiss the crown prince''s boots and insult him at every turn. That woman... that woman who was passed on among the crown prince''s close confidante now standing in the same room as them.

    But not as the fallen princess who fell from her grace, but as Danie Circe Vandran, an influential noblewoman who was said to return from the grave right after she met the devils guarding the fiery door.

    While everyone held their breaths, wide-eyed, the crown prince was fixed on every detail of her facial features. She looked exactly like the Aries he knew back in Rikhill with only that added dot mole on her cheekbone near her left eye.

    His mouth fell slightly ajar as he shifted his focus on the difference between ''that'' Aries and this woman before him. Surely, he was a thorough person who uses his head at all times.

    The Aries he knew in Rikhill was beautiful, radiating, and warm. But the woman standing before him was stunning and elegant, eyes cold as ice and... aloof. There was more difference between Aries and Danie, but aside from their face, one thing didn''t change.

    She was definitely someone... he would love to tame.

    "Is everything alright, Your Royal Highness?" when a mellifluent voice caressed his ears, he arched a brow slightly.

    ''They too sound the same, but also different in a way, it was hard to point out exactly,'' he thought before shing her a gentle smile.

    His eyes nced to his left, gazending on a nobleman briefly. Thetter''s breath hitched, but a secondter, a furious voice rang across the staid chapel walls, pointing a finger at the bride.

    "Is Haimirich toying with us?! How dare they send back a ve to be the crown princess?! Impudence!" The crown prince carefully watched her furrow her brows and frown. By the looks of it, she wasn''t angry but insulted.

    Her aloof and icy re fixated into his eyes before the corner of her lips curled up into a satirical sneer. "Is this how the citizen of Maganti offer their felicitations? It''s quite unique!"

    Aries faced the direction of the source, catching a nobleman''s smoldering in fear hidden behind his outburst. She wasn''t surprised. This man... was one of the many cannon fodders of the crown prince.

    As soon as Aries spoke using theirnguage, although rough in ent, it was overlooked by her delivery, warranting gasp from the guests. Even the nobleman''s eyes dted as his finger trembled, but he huffed and gritted his teeth.

    "Your Highness, there''s no mistake that the Haimirich Empire were toying with us! There''s no way they would send the real princess of their empire! They probably see our Great Maganti as a joke!" came out another wave of ear-piercing rumbling.

    Aries''s expression gradually grew colder as she listened to that man''s continuous disrespect. If the crown prince didn''t want this from happening, this man''s throat was already hollowed out of his neck.<sub> </sub>

    He was testing her or trying to get a reaction from her, studying her every slight movement, even how her eyshes fluttered. He was watching very carefully, and she was deeply aware of that.

    "How impudent..." she snickered under her breath, raising her sharp eyes at the nobleman and tilting her head to the side. "... you are calling me a ve? Me? A proud Vandran? On this day of all days, you... chose to mock me at my wedding..? How amusing."

    Aries chuckled as her eyes glossed over the guest before she set them at a knight from the Haimirich who attended, along with the Haimirich delegation, to witness the wedding. A short scoff escaped her mouth as she snapped her eyes back to the one ''ruining'' her special day.

    "How will you appease Haimirich for this discourtesy?" she arched a brow and raised her chin, throwing the crown prince''s an indifferent side-eye. "I do not ept anything less, Your Royal Highness."

    The crown prince exchanged gazes with her for a second before he shed her a kind smile. "Forgive me, crown princess. It seems someone attended after having a ss of wine." He waved, mobilizing a knight with just a flick of a finger.

    "Drag him out..." he trailed off upon sensing the mockery in her gaze. "... how will I appease my crown princess?" came out a quiet and curious voice.

    She smirked, pleased at how quick he could catch on. "The Haimirich way," she stressed under her breath. "Normally, this sort of discourtesy guarantees a death row. However, I do not want to undermine your authority. The finger he used to point at me бк spare his eyes."

    Aries''s demands were absolute and unwavering, giving full resolve to what she wanted. His lips were drawn into a thin sh while rocking his head, casting the knights who were holding the panicking nobleman by the shoulders.

    "Take the finger he used to point at my wife, and the crown princess," he ordered, hearing the nobleman''s stuttering voice as multiple knights pinned him down.

    "No! Your Highness! Please! I бк ahhh!!"

    Aries''s face remained unreadable. She didn''t show a slight satisfaction or remorse while watching a knight draw a knife to cut off the man''s finger. She didn''t even pay attention to the guest, knowing full well that these people... were worse than the nobles in Haimirich.

    They would turn a blind eye to this and would surely ostracize this poor cannon fodder. He just lost the crown prince''s good graces, after all.

    "Did that quench your anger even the slightest?" she blinked and looked back at the crown prince''s pretentious smile. Aries didn''t reply as she faced him squarely, taking a step forward that caused his brow to arch.

    Stopping a palm length away from him, Aries stood on her toes, tilting her head to the side before nting her lips on his, sealing their damned marriage. Her sharp eyes were open, side-eyeing him before she felt his lips grin against hers.

    "Not even a graze, husband," she whispered as she drew back, smirking daringly at him. She kept her voice low, offering her hand, and waited for him to hold it.

    "You have a bad habit of making me wait."

    "Forgive me," he yfully chuckled as he held her hand gently as if the wedding went out smoothly without interruptions. "Your elegance bedazzles me to silence."

    She chuckled as they made their way to receive felicitations from the guest. "Fair enough."

 Chapter 149 Joaquin

    Traditionally, the crown prince''s and the crown princess''s first night would be witnessed by selected people. Not entirely watch them, but stay inside the same room or outside just to make sure the newlyweds would consummate their marriage.

    But because of cultural differences between the Maganti empire and the Haimirich empire, both empires agreed that their shared nights would stay private between the crown princess and the crown prince. There was no way those men in the Haimirich Empire would let Aries consummate a marriage for everyone to hear.

    "Your Highness, are you alright?" Aries slowly opened her weary eyes, hands holding the edge of the lowboy while Gertrude was brushing her hair.

    She raised her gaze up at Gertrude''s reflection. "I want to rest early before the crown prince arrives." She waved and exhaled deeply, unable to conceal her exhaustion.

    "Yes, your Royal Highness." Gertrude held her hand on her abdomen, bowing politely. Before she left, she lit up a few more scented candles until the smell permeated the entire room.

    She held her breath only to inhale shortly. "I''ll stay outside if you need me, Your Highness."

    Aries simply nodded, watching Gertrude hurriedly yet modestly leave the chambers. The crown prince wouldn''t arrive anytime soon. She was certain he was held up by the people doubting her identity, and he would surely want to make her wait.

    "Silence..." she drew a breath, eyes closed. "Smells likevender."

    When she slowly opened her eyes, she dragged her feet towards the enormous bed. She slipped under the sheet without waiting for her husband. Her long yawn was proof of her exhaustion.

    Although the two-month journey felt fleeting with Abel as herpany, she wouldn''t deny it was still tiring. All the fatigue slowly seeped deep into her bones now that she was alone in these silent chambers and on this warm bed.

    Not to mention, she had to get married the second she stepped foot in the imperial pce. She also had to ept the felicitations from their guest before Gertrude helped her take off all the weight of her wedding dress and remove every essory from head to toe.

    Despite all that, when Ariesid down to nap, she couldn''t. Sleep required peace and she wouldn''t get that in this ce. Hence, she kept her eyes shut for a moment before sitting upright.

    "It''s just the first night, Aries," she muttered, running her fingers through her golden straight hair. Her eyes veered towards the coffee table inside the chambers.

    Her brow arched. On top of the table were a bottle of wine and two empty sses for the newlyweds to enjoy.

    "Right... at least, there''s something good left in this ce." Aries flung her legs out of the bed to grab a ss of wine. As she poured herself a ss, the side of her lips curled up.

    Holding the lower stem of the winess in between her thumb and forefinger, Aries swirled the red liquid until it coated the transparent ss. She then guided it to her nose and breathed normally.

    Even though the scented candles overwhelmed her sense of smell, Aries could still smell something from the wine, aside from its initial fresh fruity aroma. She had a vague idea of what it was, though.

    "Congrattions on getting hitched, Danie," came out in an alluring voice, guiding the rim of the winess to her lips, sipping from it elegantly. "Not bad."

    Aries smacked her lips as she dragged her feet on the settee to enjoy a drink to unwind. Leaning her side against the armrest, she propped her jaw against her knuckles, resting her leg over the other, eyes on the winess in her hand.

    "What a potent aphrodisiac," she whispered, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly. "Even though this level will notpletely influence me, my body is burning."<sub> </sub>

    She had expected this much on her wedding night. Actually, she expected more, but after the brief fiasco during the wedding ceremony, nothing out of the ordinary happened.

    ''That look in his eyes...'' her expression remained naturally sharp and detached, raising the winess to her lips once again. ''... disgust me.''

    <strong>creak...</strong>

    Aries didn''t even flinch when the faint creak from the door tickled her ears. She continued drinking, watching the figure approach through her peripheral. The crown prince stopped several steps from the shut door, eyes falling on her figure.

    d in his night robe, Aries, on the other hand, wore a thin and short silk dress, showing what she hid beneath her reserved wedding dress. Because it almost covered her earlier today, he didn''t know that she had these cursive lines drawn across her body.

    It showed from the side of her neck, running down to her attractive corbones, then down across the middle part of her chest. His eyes shifted on her fair and tender thighs, seeing the marking peek under the hem of her short nightdress.

    "Like what you''re seeing?" he snapped his eyes when Aries broke the silence."Or were the inks on my body bothers you?"

    "I think they''re artistic," came out flowery words uttered in a deep voice. He marched towards her, standing near the settee, and asked, "May I?"

    "Be my guest," she tipped her head in the empty space on the settee she was sitting on. She watched him sit down, adjusting his position until he was slightly facing her.

    "Shall I pour you a ss?" she inquired, almost sounding teasingly with her cheeks pinkish.

    "Will you?"

    "Well, if you ask... nicely." Aries shrugged, making him chuckle as he leaned back, eyes fastening with fascination.

    "No need." He waved mildly, scanning the natural blush on her face that contradicted those pair of smart eyes. "Just the sight of you is enough to excite a man."

    "Then am I risking my marriage for needing a ss or two tonight?" she probed with a smirk, fluttering her eyes coquettishly.

    "Not at all, crown princess. I think you will need it to ease your worries."

    "Circe," she crooned, sipping from the winess again, eyes still at him. When she gulped and licked her lips, she shed a short smile.

    "We''re now husband and wife. Therefore, I think being called by my name by my husband is... not much of a favor." Her brows rose, guiding their rtionship at the pace she wanted to. "Quite fast, but not as fast as the wedding. The irony, isn''t it? Your Royal Highness?"

    The crown prince just stared at her for several seconds, keeping his mouth tight shut. It was amazing how her roundabout way of talking still give her the result she wanted.

    He sported a charming smile and raised his rxed shoulders a bit. "Joaquin."

 Chapter 150 Reminds Me Of The Greenhouse

    "Joaquin."

    Aries shot Joaquin, the crown prince of the Maganti Empire, a side-eye. The corner of her lips curled up, biting it slightly to suppress it from stretching.

    "What a lovely name," she praised modestly. "Even as slow-witted as I am, the name fits the person who carries it."

    Exalted. That was the meaning of this proud one''s name.

    "Not as lovely as yours." He shrugged, stretching his arm over the settee''s backrest, shing her a yful smirk. "Although I heard you were known by your first name in Haimirich, not by your second name."

    "Would you like to address me in the name everybody calls me?" her brow arched as she held the winess before her lips, eyes on him.

    Aries watched the side of his lips stretch. No matter how she genuinely abhor this man who was breathing the same air as her, she couldn''t deny that his looks were pleasing in the eye.

    Joaquin had this face that would make others immediately trust him. His charming and seemingly harmless smile was the greatest lie one would see. She fell for this gentle face in the past, thinking he was a kind person and could be trusted. That was one reason they became friends, aside from his ''likable'' personality, which turned out to be lies.

    Joaquin... this man reminded her of the phrase "too good to be true." He was the perfect representation of that.

    "No one calls you Circe?" he tilted his head, halting her train of thoughts.

    "Guess." She cast him a knowing look before sipping from her winess. Her eyes remained on him, keeping her gaze that had a touch of ''desire'' fixed on him.

    His mouth fell open, tapping his fingers simultaneously against the top of the backrest they were sitting on. She hadn''t done anything but look at him and indulge with him, but the sexual tension between them was distinct.

    "This frail seduction... I am a little frail, Circe," he confessed in a dark, brooding voice. "I can see myself standing right under your thumb soon."

    "Oh, you." Her waves of lovely chuckles resonated, leaning forward to pour herself another ss. "me it on the wine."

    Joaquin''s eyes narrowed until they were partially closed, watching her fill the ss before she cast him another quick look. She simpered and shook her head, picking up the ss once again.

    Elegance was what screamed her every little movement. Even her brief nces shrilled sophistication. He couldn''t expect anything less from the proud princess of the Vandran n.

    She still looked exactly like Aries, but they were surely poles apart. This Aries was... more. Unlike his missing war trophy, this woman not only knew her value but was also wise in how she emphasized it in a roundabout way.

    The Aries he knew also knew her value... which she regarded higher than the heaven when it wasn''t even that much. There were still doubts in his heart, no matter how huge the difference was.

    "Don''t drink too much," he reminded her as she chugged down a mouthful of wine. "You''ll break my heart if you sleep on me on our first night."

    "Frail-hearted, are we?" she humored, touching her flustered cheek with the back of her fingers.

    "Is this perhaps your first night with a man?" he inquired out of the blue, knitting his brows when her breath hitched for a split second before shing him a confident look.

    "Guess," she returned humorously, hiding the ''shameful'' truth behind her yful countenance.

    "Hah... how cute." Joaquin rocked his head, chuckling. Her reaction told him the reason she was drinking over her limit was to squash down her nervousness.

    ''It will be a waste if she turns out to be Aries,'' he thought, setting his deep-set silver eyes on her. ''She was quite fun to indulge with. It''s amazing how she had pressed a few nerves but isn''t as offensive as I thought she would be.''

    "With how proud my wife... is there a man worthy enough to hold your hand?" he humored back, leaning forward to take a closer look. When his face was only a palm length away from her, he smirked.

    "Stunning. I am one lucky man."<sub> </sub>

    Aries, who was leaning back, faced him squarely. She only stared at him for a second, raising a finger between them. Guiding it to his face, Aries traced his jaw down to his chin.

    Her face was painted with red at the consumption of the wine mixed with a special ingredient, aphrodisiac, which added allure to her shimmering olive eyes. She fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly, staring at him straight in the eye.

    <o>,m "Yes, you are, my husband," she dawdled seductively, smirking as she closed in, only to shift her lips'' direction to his ear to tease him. "Very lucky."</o>

    Joaquin''s jaw fell open before clenching his teeth mildly when she licked his earlobe. His silver eyes glinted, watching her draw her head back to reveal the mischievous smirk stered on her face.

    He bit his lips. "You never fail to amaze me..." his hand crawled and snaked around her lean waist. As his lips were an inch apart from hers, he added under his breath;

    "... Aries."

    His palm felt her body, anticipating any sort of reaction from her, but to no avail. All he felt were her hands slowly creeping up his neck, her fingers wrapping around them.

    "Call another woman''s name next time and see what happens," she warned, making him chuckle before he imed her lips hungrily.

    The hands wrapped around his neck didn''t hinder him from taking what he came here for; her. If anything, her actions after testing her only increased his desire to know how far and deep he could go before she tighten her grip.

    He pulled her waist with his arm, adjusting his position with his knee on the surface of the settee. His other hand buried in her hair, lips locked with hers, guiding her down until her backfortably lie t underneath him.

    It had been a while since he felt this arouse with just one woman. The taste of her mouth that had the lingering taste of the wine, her increasing body heat under his palm, and initial moans into his mouth, sent electricity to the ends of his nerves.

    He slipped his hand under her silk nightdress, making her bite his lips until it bled. But the taste of iron in their mouth only added to the building tension in his arousal.

    "You..." he panted into her mouth, caressing her curves with his palm until he cupped her breast. Aries couldn''t stop the moan from escaping her quivering lips.

    Joaquin nced at her reaction and... it was enough to drive him mad. With that face giving him this kind of look that ''that'' Aries never showed him, it left him wanting to see more.

    and when she called his name, "... quin," with a craving tone, his eyes darkened.

    "Fucking hell," he whispered and bit her lips until they bled, drunk with lust.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    "Call another woman''s name next time and see what happens."

    When those words slipped past her lips, her eyes glinted as he closed in to im her. But s, an inch before his lips could touch hers, Joaquin''s headnded on her shoulder, fast asleep.

    The side of her lips curled up, looking around at the thin fog from the scented candles. Aries carefully guided his head on herp, stroking his hair, staring at him with lust... lust to take his life in the most torturous and painful way possible.

    "May you please me well in your dreams, Joaquin." Her voice was alluring and deadly, smirking as she leaned back and closed her eyes to rest them for a bit, inhaling thevender scent filling the chamber, which Gertrude avoided inhaling.

    "Mhm... reminds me of the greenhouse."

 Chapter 151 Davien

    Sometime in the pastбн

    Aries was standing on the balcony, holding a ss of wine that she hadn''t drunk yet. Wearing a gorgeous dress with half of her hair clipped behind, cascading with the rest of her green locks. A deep exhale escaped her lips, unable to enjoy the fresh night breeze.

    "I hope they don''t drag me back inside," she breathed out, leaning her side against the railings. Today was one of those days she hated the most. She literally loathed banquets with passion, thinking that honing her swordsmanship was better than wasting it on smiling and being pretty at all times.

    "Well, I can''t help it," came out a whisper, sighing for the umpteenth time. "If I truly want to be the crown princess and rece brother, socializing is inevitable."

    It was not that Aries didn''t know how to blend in with women''s gossip and men''s discussion about politics. In fact, she was naturally good with conversations that many mistook her for someone who enjoyed it. Not that she truly hated it, but because of that, it was hard to get a moment of peace.

    Everyone just wanted a piece of her, and that was tiring.

    Thus, she always found herself sneaking out from the banquet hall, just like now, to breathe. Aries blinked, shifting it towards the entrance of the balcony when it creaked mildly as it opened. She rolled her eyes when she saw the person closing the door behind him carefully.

    "Having a good time alone in here?" asked the man with eyes the same color of seaweed and hair the color of clover green.

    "Cut me some ck, Davien." Aries watched Davien, the crown prince of Rikhill, approach and lean his side against the railings, facing her with a yful grin. "Don''t look at me like that."

    "Like, what?" heughed. "Spare me your histrionic sentiments, sister. I simply came in here to light up a smoke."

    "Not in here." She stressed while widening her eyes.

    "Why?" Davien arched a brow, slowing down in taking out his cigar from inside the pocket of his suit.

    "I don''t like it."

    "Aries, is this how you will be once you be the crown princess? Good lord! Our Kingdom awaits a tyrant?!"

    "Oh, please! I was enjoying myself in here until you came." She frowned and rolled her eyes, clicking her tongue in irritation while looking away.

    Davienughed, taking out the cigar just to smell it, but he didn''t light it up. Instead, his yful smile remained while gazing at his grumpy sister.

    "Is this that time of the monthбн"

    "Not a sound." Aries set her unblinking eyes, peeved at what her brother was about to speak. Davien raised both his hands and pressed his lips into a tight and thin sh.

    She huffed and shook her head, peeling her eyes from him to the vast expanse ahead. "How can you be so careful about this? I hate that while I am working hard while you''re acting like a buffoon."

    "Sister, you''re so strict." Davien chuckled with his lips closed. "Loosen up a bit, will you? I mean, it doesn''t mean I am as friendly and handsome as always, doesn''t mean I am not working hard in keeping my title."

    "Working hard, tsk."

    His lips stretched, poking her lean cheek with the cigar. "Why are you so grumpy? You''re not usually like this. Come on, tell your reliable big brother what bothers you?"

    Her frown grew worse as he kept poking her cheek, but didn''tsh out at him. Instead, she cast her older brother a side-eye.<sub> </sub>

    "Are you taking me lightly?" she inquired without beating around the bush.

    "Huh?"

    "Why? Was it because I''m a woman? And you also think a woman isn''t fit to rule and will bring ruin to a nation?"

    This time, Davien frowned at the ridiculous remarks his sister wouldn''t usually spew. "Who told you that?"

    "I am asking you a question, Davien. Don''t answer me with another question."

    "No," came out a quick return. "Now, answer mine. Who uttered such an insult to my sister?"

    Aries pressed her lips and looked away. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, feeling his gaze on her side.

    "No one," she answered after a minute of silence.

    "No one?" His frown grew worse before sighing deeply, facing the same direction where she was staring at. "Father isn''t against it, nor our people. Our Kingdom and the citizens who were born and raised here shared onemon thing, and that was our openness to innovation, changes, possibilities, and so much more."

    "Isn''t that the reason Rikhill, although small, persisted for hundreds of years?" he continued while hovering the cigar in front of his nose. "A female ruler after all these years isn''tmon, but that doesn''t mean they cannot rule just as great as the previous kings. What I''m saying is, you know me and Rikhill more than anyone else, Aries. Don''t let the outsider''s words sway you."

    ''Not when they''re mocking Father,'' was what she wanted to tell him, but she ended up biting her tongue. Telling Davien that she overheard the conversation of the delegation from the Maganti Empire, regarding Aries'' iming a right for the throne, would benefit no one.

    It was fine if they mocked her, but they even ridiculed the king! She wouldn''t have left it off the hook if the Maganti Empire wasn''t an excellent ally, but a scary opponent. So she kept it in but attending the banquet triggered her. So she was annoyed at everything.

    "Aries," called Davien, facing her squarely. He waited for her to look back at him before his lips parted.

    "I think you''re amazing," he confessed with a warm smile. "And I really think youбн are more than qualified to own the title of the crown princess. You don''t have any idea how I had been working hard; it''s not an exaggeration to say I am working hard twice than usual."

    "I''m implying is you are that tough as an opponent," he added and tipped the cigar at her. "Just in case you win, despite all the efforts I am putting to secure my seat, I will be at ease knowing Rikhill will be in good hands."

    Davien shed her a smile and winked, guiding the cigar in between his teeth. Out of habit, he lit it up, but Aries ignored the pungent scent of smoke.

    "I hate you," she whispered before a hand rested on top of her head.

    "I hate you just as dearly, sister." Davien massaged her scalp yfully. "You''re forcing me to work hard."

    "That serves you right. I will destroy you if you do nothing about it."

    "Haha!" he burst out ofughter, already used to his sister''s threats.

    Aries just cast him a side-eye before she sighed. A subtle smile finally appeared on her lips as she picked up the winess, warning the mischievous Davien to stop ruining her hair, in which he returned with delightedughs.

    All she could do was shake her head, taking her first sip of wine for the night. However, when she blinked ever so slowly, the vast expanse was reced with Davien''s head rolling to her feet, standing in the middle of a battlefield where her forces were being overwhelmed by the soldiers from the Maganti Empire.

 Chapter 152 Sweet Sacrifice

    <strong>"A female ruler will lead a nation to ruin." </strong>

    Those words she overheard years ago hovered over her head. Davien put his trust in her and believed otherwise. However, with everything that happened to the kingdom of green, she failed Davien. Not just the crown prince, but everyone. Or ratherбн it was not her who failed them. It was this man, Joaquin, who made sure she would fail.

    In the past, she would me herself. But after spending months in Haimirich, Aries''s mindset slowly changed somehow. Although she still took responsibility for the ruin of Rikhill, Aries was also aware this won''t happen if the greedy Maganti Empire didn''t betray them.

    "Youбн"

    Aries breathed heavily as she gazed down. Joaquin was still sleeping soundlessly on herp, dreaming about the two of them. She thought once he was lost in a dream, she would get enough rest. But s, she couldn''t. The nightmares and the memories she tried to tuck away in a ce she wouldn''t touch kept resurfacing in her head.

    Her trembling hand wrapped around the crown prince''s neck, bloodshot eyes shaking in anger. She told herself multiple times she would return the pain a hundredfold, but there was this strong part of her that was whispering in her ear to strangle him now.

    <strong>Kill himбн</strong> was the words repeating in her head like a broken record.

    ''I''ll kill youбн kill youбн'' Aries ground her teeth as she tightened her grip around his neck. "I''ll kill youбн"

    Joaquin''s face crumpled as he weakly moved his head. But Ariesбн who was the one strangling him, felt as though she was the one who was being suffocated. In the end, her grip loosened, and she panted for air while a tear rolled down her cheek.

    "Hahбн" her hand mped down onto the armrest, her other hand clutching her chest while she gritted her teeth.

    It hurts.

    <strong>The painбн</strong> the pain she thought she had alreadye to terms with and had moved on even the slightest came back, like all the months she spent healing didn''t seed at all. The beat of her heart was painful as if her heart wanted to break through her ribcage.

    The Maganti Empireбн this same imperial pceбн this manбн were the ones who attempted to extinguish her light. But at the same time, they were also the reasons why her heart was burning.

    With Aries gritting her teeth, she gazed down at the man she spoke her marriage vows to. Beforeing into this ce, Aries knew she was determined to ruin them. But only nowбн that determinationpletely sank in.

    "I will kill you," she whispered as she bent over. "Joaquin, I''ll let you have a taste of your own medicine. I promise."

    Everything Joaquin didбн getting her trust, befriending her, making her believe he had faith in her, he better guard his heart. Aries would take him bit by bit until he could no longer breathe without her. It might sound impossible now with how cunning of man Joaquin was, but she would stop at nothing.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Morning came and Joaquin grunted before he could open his eyes, stretching his arms and toes. The morning hymn of the birds caressed his ears and the faint ray of the morning sun hit his face, causing him to shield his eyes before opening one. Out of instinct, he turned his head on the side of the bed, smirking seeing his wife''s back.

    Joaquin didn''t feel the need to embrace her as he gazed back at the ceiling. Last night was ''great.'' Although Aries, whom he knew as Danie Circe, was someone who regarded herself as superior. Butst night, underneath him, blushing bashfully, embarrassed at herck of experience in bed, was truly a sight to behold.

    He shot her back a side-eye before he pushed himself to sit up, revealing his muscr bare top. Running his fingers through his hair, he flung his legs out of the bed and sat on the edge whilst stretching his neck.

    ''It''s been a while since I was this exhausted,'' he thought, massaging his shoulder with eyes closed. As he did, the memory ofst night and how he imed her ''first,'' resurfaced on his head. He smiled at the thought. His wife was very different on the bed and how her taunting sharp eyes looked at him with conflict was enough to make him hard.<sub> </sub>

    Should he have a good time before leaving? He wondered, ncing back at her.

    The side of his lips curled up before he crawled back to her side. He didn''t see any reason why he would not? He wanted to see her in the morning, too. She was his wife, so shouldn''t he have fun with her to his heart''s content until he had enough?

    "Mhmбн" her grunt, which sounded like a moan, caressed his ears while he traced her shoulder de with the apex of his nose.

    "Morning, Gorgeous," came out a rasped voice as he nted kisses on the side of her neck. His hand rested on her hip, squeezing it lightly.

    "бн quin," she whispered weakly, looking over her shoulder.

    "Mhm?" he crooned, drawing his head back to look at her.

    "My body is aching," came out a muffled voice, turning around to face him with a frown. Seeing the displeasure stered on her adorable morning face that was hidden behind her usual stony countenance made him smile.

    "Is it?" he inquired yfully, caressing her jaw with the back of his hand.

    Aries rolled her eyes. "Stop acting you''re innocent. You know why I can barely move."

    "Pfftбк! Oh, you poor, sweet thing." Heughed. "Were you angry? But I don''t think you werest night."

    His yful eyes glinted, seeing her blush a bit while averting her eyes upon the mention ofst night''s event. There was just something that aroused him seeing a different side of this fierce woman. If only Joaquin knew that what ''happened''st night didn''t actually happen, he wouldn''t be humoring her but stabbing her until there was no space for the knife on her body anymore.

    "Stop it." She clicked her tongue, pulling up the quilt to cover half of her lower face, ring at him.

    "Haha! Alright, it''s my fault." Heughed while rocking his head, taking the me as he knew he was too excitedst night. He saw her roll her eyes before he breathed out. "You should rest for today. There''s nothing much to do today, anyway. I''ll ask them to bring you something to help you with the pain."

    Joaquin smiled gently and gave her a reassuring look. His eyes scrutinized hers. With her covering her face like this, it felt like ''that'' Aries was the one staring back at him adorably.

    Did he feel satisfied because she truly resembled that woman? Or was it because of the simple fact his wife had her own allure? Maybe a little bit of both. Either way, he didn''t feel the shred of dread. In fact, he was thrilled.

    "I''ll visit youter," he promised before assisting himself out of the bed.

    Aries watched him pick up the robe on the floor and wrapped himself up. He gave her one yful look before walking out of the bed.

    As soon as the door closed, Joaquin smirk''s grew sinister as his eyes glinted menacingly. At the same time, Aries''s eyes also bore malice and contempt while staring at the door.

    <strong>''This will be fun,'' </strong>crossed both their head at the same time.

 Chapter 153 Prelude

    "Your Highness."

    Aries looked up, seeing Gertrude''s worried face while holding her hand. Only then did she realize she had been scratching her shoulder that Joaquin kissed earlier while dipped in the tub. Her lips were a little swollen already as she tried to wipe off the traces of that man.

    "Please let me help you, Your Highness," Gertrude offered as she guided Aries''s hand on the rim of the tub. Thetter just pressed her lips and gazed down.

    Gertrude moved and sat on the small stool outside the tub, eyes full of worry. She had spent almost a year serving Aries, and this was the only time she had witnessed her master act so distraught. Or rather, bear the eyes of someone who was drunk with blood lust; Aries was starting to scare and worry her.

    "Gertrude," called Aries, bending her knees to rest her hands on top of it. "You know where His Majesty picked me up, right?"

    Gertrude''s eyes flickered with bitterness, scrubbing Aries'' back gently. "Yes, Your Highness."

    "Before meeting Abelбн I was in this ce," Aries continued, but Gertrude already knew about that. Thetter didn''t know the details, but just the word ''war trophy,'' was enough to give the vague idea of what Aries went through.

    "That man, Joaquin, whom I spoke my marriage vows to, ughtered my family and my people and made me watch their death, one after another," she muttered things she never told anyone but Abel. She trusted Gertrude as thetter had proved her loyalty to Aries. "I never thought torturing someone doesn''t require physical pain. Torturing and killing a person from the inside is way worse бк it''s numbing."

    "Mydyбн"

    "I''ll kill him." Gertrude''s breath hitched, and she looked around out of instinct, as they hadn''t gotten used to the ce and they didn''t know if someone was listening and heard Aries''s remarks. "I''ll start from the inside as well and slowly gnaw my way out of his skin. He won''t even know it until I make him."

    Aries snickered while Gertrude frowned in worry. "Hahбн really. I''m shaking." She gazed down at her hand on her knees, trembling uncontrobly. Maybe it was the nightmarest night about Davien or just the energy in this ce that was infecting her heart like a parasite. Either way, Aries couldn''t help but feel this catharsis boiling within, ready for its rightful time to be released.

    "Mydy, they might hear you." Gertrude breathed out cautiously, a little scared at Aries. Even so, she understood where thetter wasing from. It hadn''t been twenty-four hours since they stepped foot in here, and Gertrude already had a poor impression about the ce and the people in this imperial pce.

    "Hear me?" Aries nced at Gertrude and smirked. "Is anybody there?!" she yelled, almost giving her personal maid a heart attack.

    "Mydy!"

    "Haha! Oh, Gertrude!" she giggled while leaning back, running her hand through her golden hair as he leaned her back against the tub. Her hair dangled out of the tub, cocking her head back, eyes at Gertrude.

    "Even if I yell in here, no one will hear. Trust me, I know, after all, my screams in the past reached no one."

    "But mydy, your situation now and before is different."<sub> </sub>

    Aries shook her head with her lips closed. "It''s the same, Gertrude." She pressed her lips and smacked them, breathing out through her mouth.

    "Honestly, I could''ve done this before. Thisбн revenge, I mean. I know I could do it, but I never did," she expressed, thinking of the past and now. If Aries truly wanted to in the past, she would be someone Joaquin would get crazy for. But she didn''t.

    It wasn''t that this thought didn''t cross her. Actually, it did many times she had lost count. The only reason she didn''t resort to such means was thatбн Aries was certain she would kill herself once she was done. She had no other purpose anymore once everyone in the Maganti Empire was dead.

    "If I did it in the past, I will not get to meet him." She smiled and shot Gertrude a look. "I will never meet Abel. My brother, Sir Conan, you, and Minerva."

    "Mydyбн"

    "Now, I know, even if I get crazy, someone will go crazy with me." Aries slowly peeled her gaze from Gertrude as they glinted maliciously. "I think that''s another thing I should thank God for, don''t you think?"

    She nced at Gertrude once again and saw thetter hang her head low. Sheughed, licking her lips afterward as she hummed.

    "Are you scared of me, Gertrude?" asked Aries, feeling the vibration of her personal maid''s hands on her arms.

    Gertrude nced at Aries as she continued to wipe her arms. "I will be lying if I say I wasn''t scared of you. You remind me of the emperor, mydy."

    "Hah. Abel. Make sense, since he influenced me on many things." Aries rocked her head, manifesting her lover''s spirit just so she could feel liberated. Abel was a free spirit and Aries felt like breaking out of her shell and embraced the little madness she had been hiding.

    "I''m also worried that you will do something reckless," Gertrude added. "I know you are capable, and they deserved retribution for all the atrocities they hadmitted. But I am still worried."

    Aries nced at her once again and smiled. Even though Gertrude didn''t say it aloud, she got the gist of her message. Gertrude was worried because she cared. Not that Aries was beingcent, but one of the many advantages she had in this ce wasбн she lived in this ce long enough to know the people who lived here.

    "Don''t worry, Gertrude. I won''t endanger you and Minerva."

    "Mydy, that is notбн"

    "Shhh." Aries ced her finger in front of her lips, shushing Gertrude to silence. "Better. Anyway, prepare my prettiest dress. I''ll be expecting people, curious ones, and impressing someone is my goal."

 Chapter 154 Ninth Sister

    Joaquin, the crown prince, was loved and respected in the empire. He was charming, smart, and had a good public image. Unlike the views of those people from the countries that were trampled by the empire, the citizen of the Maganti had a different image of Joaquin in their heads.

    To them, Joaquin was akin to a hero. That was whyбн now that he had taken in a wife, a lot of royalties and nobles were intrigued.

    Was the crown prince''s wifeбн worthy? Aside from her parentage and status, was she worthy to stand on the same ground as Joaquin?

    Aries smiled as she walked through the crown prince''s pce garden, recalling the echoing twittering and murmurings of the servants resonating through the pce''s thin walls. Their wedding had been the talk of the town, and if the servants couldn''t stop themselves from talking about it, she was certain everybody else had the same topic. Especially about the interruption during their wedding and her face.

    "What a lovely flower," she praised, stopping in front of the flowerbed full of lilies. "We should take some so I can arrange it during my free time."

    "Yes, mydy." Gertrude, who was standing at arm''s length, bowed slightly. When she raised her head, Aries nced at her briefly and smiled, looking all elegant and beyond her reach. She watched Aries resume in her steps to stroll around the garden while Gertrude could only stare at Aries''s slim back.

    Aries was beautiful, like a goddess who descended straight from the empyrean realm. But her aura now was different бк different from when she was in the Rose Pce and the Vandran Residence. Gertrude couldn''t point it out exactly, but if she was going to put it into words, Aries lookedбн tempting. Anyone would risk even their lives just to spend a night with her бк she oozed sex appeal.

    As they strolled the garden in peace, Aries stopped at the sight of a knight approaching her direction. She stood still, tilting her head and waiting for the knight to stop a couple of meters away.

    "Greetings to the exalted crown princess." The knight bowed, fist across his shoulder. "Your Highness, the ninth princess, is here to pay her respect to you." He reported, making Aries arch a brow.

    "The ninth princess?" she smacked her lips as she mulled over it for a second. "Where is she now?"

    "In the drawing-room, Your Highness."

    Aries rocked her head, but instead of asking the knight to lead the way, she sauntered towards the nearest flowerbed to adore them. "Gertrude, this one will look good with the lilies."

    "They will, Your Highness."

    "That one too. Take some to the pavilion by theke. I will arrange a flower vase for my husband."

    "Yes, Your Highness." Gertrude, like a dutiful servant, simply tilted her head down. But just as she was epting orders from the crown princess, the knight frowned as they were purposely ignoring him.

    "Your highness," called the knight with a stern voice. "The ninth princessбн"<sub> </sub>

    "The ninth princess wants to pay her respect to me?" Aries cut him off as she carefully set herzy eyes on the knight. "Or, is she summoning me, the crown princess, to pay my respect to her?"

    The knight''s frown grew worse, while the side of her lips curled up slightly. How could he argue with her if she worded it that way?

    "Give my word to the ninth princess, my lovely sister-inw, that the crown princess had an exhausting night. So, I am ''inviting'' her to join me in arranging a flower vase for my husband. I will be very pleased if she graced me with herpany." She offered a kind smile, waving as she turned around.

    The knight could only stare at Aries back with a frown. But what was clear to him was that the rumors they had heard about her were true. She was someone not to be taken lightly. She shut him up with almost just a sound, ying with her words to sound more pleasant than its real context.

    *<strong>******</strong>

    Aries sat daintily on the intricate marble chair in the middle of therge pavilion by theke. On the table was a variety of freshly plucked flowers, vases, and materials for arranging flowers. Gertrude, her personal maid, and a few servants stationed to service her stood almost motionless outside the pavilion.

    "I, the ninth princess, pay her respect to the crown princess." Aries snapped her eyes, turning her head to the side. Her eyesnded on the figure steps away from the entrance, performing a curtsy for formality.

    "Raise your head, ninth sister. I am d that you epted my invitation." She smiled, watching Inez, the ninth princess, raising her head. She didn''t have any change in reaction when their eyes locked. But Inez was a little stunned seeing that familiar face.

    Inez heard about the ''resemnce'' of the crown princess to <strong>''that''</strong> ve, and also the highlight of their wedding. However, she didn''t actually think it wasn''t just a resemnce.

    That faceбн was the same, exact face they all knew.

    "Please, ninth sister, take a seat. Pardon the mess on the table. I thought of arranging some flowers to decorate my chambers so it will have some colors." Aries''s voice snapped Inez back to her senses, and thetter was quick to rpose herself with a smile.

    "It is my honor, Your Highness." Inez sauntered towards the seat across from Aries, ncing at the flowers Aries was cutting and segregating.

    "I am honestly pleased that you came to see me. As you can see, I was a little lonely. Although I am relieved that His Highness, the crown prince, was a good man, there was still longing in my heart." Aries spoke while cutting the stem of the rose before raising her gaze at the beautiful ninth princess. "Apany is just what I exactly need right now."

    Her eyshes fluttered ever so tenderly as the corner of her lips curled up bewitchingly, making Inez''s mouth fall open. Aries then slid a white rose towards her, smiling.

    "For you."

 Chapter 155 Every Day, Memories Of Yesterday Resurface In Her Head

    <strong>Sometime in the past...</strong>

    The distinct creak from the door whispered in Aries''s ears, but her eyes remained fixated on the decaying ceiling. The light from the outside barely reached her chest, lying t on the dirty floor.

    How long has gone by? Aries didn''t know since it didn''t matter to her.

    Who was her visitor this time? She honestly doesn''t care anymore.

    They coulde and go once they get whatever they came here for; she had long epted this body wasn''t hers anymore. In her mind, this body was just another casualty she lost after the war.

    "My... had she lost it?" Inez hid half of her lower face with her hand fan, shielding her nose at the pungent stench from the old chambers where Aries was locked in. The knight guarding this small, abandoned castle nced inside.

    "You shouldn''t go in, Your Highness. I don''t think she is still sane after what happened to her."

    Inez nced at the knight and arched a brow. "Did you touch her?" she asked without beating around the bush, causing the knight to flinch.

    "Did you?" she repeated, this time, her tone wasmanding.

    The knight hung his head low to hide his flustered face. "No, Your Highness."

    "I do not like liars."

    "I swear in the name of my family and my life."

    Inez studied the knight''s demeanor before she scoffed. It seemed he was telling the truth, but well, who would want ady that almost every man had a taste of already? She smirked and nced inside with an arched brow.

    "Stay outside," shemanded, and even before the knight could stop her, Inez had already stepped in. Her steps slowed down the closer she was to Aries''s spot, stopping on thetter''s side, and squatting down.

    She studied Aries''s unmoving eyes, staring at the ceiling. To her amusement, Aries''s eyes weren''t nk even though they were motionless; it was more like the reason she wasn''t sparing her a look was that she didn''t care anymore.

    "Oh, Joaquin. You''re such an animal." Inez chuckled while shaking her head, sighing deeply as she pointed the tip of her hand fan at Aries''s forehead. "How can he disgrace you like this and drag you through the mud? He''s so tasteless, as always."

    Her eyes glinted icily, studying Aries''s poker face. She understood why Joaquin was so crazy about this woman. Despite that Aries'' smelled like a rotting corpse, and her face had smudges of dirt, she was beautiful. Like a diamond who would shine in the middle of a wastnd.

    "Do you want to leave this wretched room?" she asked, but Aries didn''t respond, which Inez already expected. "Indulging with Joaquin isn''t that terrible, I guess. I get to y with his favorite doll."

    A delighted snicker slipped past her lips as she tapped the tip of her hand fan against Aries''s forehead lightly. She licked her lips, cing her hand on her thigh as she pushed herself up.

    "Take her to Lazuli Pce," came out augh as she sauntered towards the door, motioning the knight to execute her orders at once.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>*********</strong>

    It had been a long time since Aries bathe, let alone servants helping her. But even so, she didn''t speak a word, as if she had gonepletely mute. Her eyes stayed in one direction, ahead.

    Inez watched her as her servants clean the dirt off of Aries, sitting on a wooden stool in the corner so the water wouldn''t reach her. Aries didn''t ask anything, nor did she retaliate. One would think Joaquin trained Aries to obey every order she received like a puppet, but it felt otherwise. If Inez wasn''t keen and observant, she would''ve lowered her guard. Well, even if she would, Aries would''ve gotten dragged back if she tried to escape.

    "Leave us alone." She raised a hand, catching all the three maid servants'' attention as they raised their puzzled faces.

    "Your Highness?"

    She arched a brow as her eyes glossed over the servants. "Don''t let me repeat myself again. Leave." She waved and assisted herself up.

    The servants looked at each other with the same confusion stered across their faces, but they said nothing as they bowed. No one made a sound, walking backward while bowing until there was just Inez and Aries.

    When the former sat down on the footstool beside the tub, Inez tilted her head to the side.

    "Aren''t you lucky? I, the ninth princess, will bathe you personally?" the side of her lips curled up, studying Aries''s mien. Just when she thought Aries would ignore her again, thetter blinked ever so slowly and looked at Inez for the first time.

    Her lips parted, but her voice didn''te out until a minuteter. "You like me?"

    "Huh?"

    "You like women?" asked Aries, watching her quirk a brow at her ridiculous and not-so-curious inquiry, making Inez burst out ofughter.

    When Inez recovered from her waves ofughter, she gazed back at Aries, only to see thetter''s unsmiling face. "I like women? Me? The beautiful and great Inez?" She raised a finger, pinching Aries''s chin lightly, eyshes fluttering.

    "Well, that''s quite a wild assumption... I simply enjoy taking care of my dolls." Her smile grew malicious, eyes glinting as she stared back at Aries. "Come, I''ll help you."

    Inez shed a kind smile as she moved closer, running her fingertips across Aries''s bare shoulder. Her mouth fell open as her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, amused by how soft thetter''s skin was even with all the hardship she went through.

    "What a delicate skin," she whispered, tracing Aries''s neck with the back of her finger, going up to the back of her hair. "It makes me wonder... how nice would it be if it was mine?"

    As soon as those words flew out of Inez''s mouth, she grabbed a chunk of Aries''s hair and pushed her down, drawing her with cold eyes.

    "I like you? Hah... don''t make meugh," came out an icy voice, watching her struggle while her face was devoid of human emotions, ignoring the ssh of water hitting her. "I asked everyone to leave because... I want to have fun."

    Yet, even when Inez said that and knew that was her intention, she couldn''t help but feel the deception in her words... and she loathed Aries for that. For seeing right through her... or rather, for instilling something that Inez wasn''t aware of until those words slipped past Aries''s lips like a curse, binding her for life.

 Chapter 156 Frail Seduction

    Inez''s temper grew worse every time she would have her ''y date'' with Aries. Drowning her was the mildest punishment she had for her. Getting pricked by needles, having to crawl butt-naked like a dog with a rope around her neck, andshes were all the mildest cases. All because Aries spoke the unneeded truth.

    If Joaquin tried to kill her spirit so Aries would submit, Inez, on the other hand, pushed her to rock bottom. Inez made sure Aries would never see any value in herself ever again.

    Their only difference was that Inez... was already on the edge бк she had been standing on the edge, waiting for that one light push.

    And Aries would happily do the honors.

    "For you." Aries slid the white rose towards the woman sitting across from her in the pavilion in the crown prince''s garden. "A token of appreciation for epting my whims."

    Inez nced down at the white rose before raising her eyes back. When she locked eyes with Aries, the side of her lips curled up amicably.

    "It is my honor, Your Highness." She was keen to read the air and quick to realize the kind of person sitting across from her. As expected from a princess who wasn''t simply pampered, but also capable of gaining a bit of influence in the empire.

    Aries smiled back as she cut another stem, which she ced over her ear. As she did so, she shot Inez a look and spoke.

    "I think the white rose will suit your auburn hair, ninth sister," she tipped her head towards the white rose in front of Inez. "I hope someday I''d see you wearing one."

    Inez just smiled and observed Aries under the facade of apanying her. It waspletely different from what she imagined this visit would turn out. Ariespletely had full control of the turn of events.

    <strong>********</strong>

    The sound of shattered porcin resonated in the ninth princess'' chambers, along with her angry shouts. The servants, who were standing by the corner of the room, flinched each time Inez lob anything she could grab.

    As soon as the ninth princess returned from her visit to the crown princess, pieces of furniture and broken porcins loitered her quarters as Inez threw a huge fit.

    "There''s no doubt!" she panted while standing in the middle of the disaster around her. "It''s obvious, it''s her!"

    Her eyes glinted as her pupils constricted, recalling how Aries coquettishly flutter her eyshes. Her simple yet alluring smile, her soothing voice, how the muscle in her neck flexed every time she stretched it. It was obvious Aries was teasing her by seducing her!

    "That wretched woman..." came out a shaking voice, releasing everything she held in front of Aries, grinding her teeth. "Hah...! right! I''ll make her regreting back to y."

    Inezughed andughed until she hunched in, holding her stomach. The servants, who were witnessing her, kept their heads low while ncing at each other. Thest thing they wanted right now was catching Inez''s attention, afraid of what kind of punishment awaited them.

    When Inez recovered, she drew a breath and huffed, ncing at the white rose on the floor. The side of her lips curled up, marching towards it, only to crush it with her foot. Her eyes were cold and dull, sharpening them as she raised her chin.

    "I''ll y along with her." She licked her lips, thinking of Aries. "You survived once... you shouldn''t have gone back."

    She smirked before ncing at the servants. "Ran me a bath and scrub this stench ofvender off of me!"

    <strong>**********</strong><sub> </sub>

    "I''ve seen many eyes."

    "Mydy?"

    Gertrude turned around after cing the vase on top of the stand in the corner. Her eyes searched for Aries, catching her sitting on the chair, jaw propped against the bottom of her palm, her other hand ying with the petal arranged in the vase ced in front of her.

    "It''s not a good thing per se," Aries continued, lips curling up into a smirk, eyes on the flower arrangement. "But the advantage of my past is that... I''ve seen their eyes."

    Her eyes softened, recalling all sorts of eyes hovered over her. "The thrill of crossing the line, dominance, and everything. Their eyes never lie, and only a few can control them from exposing their heart and soul. Others conceal it with hatred and violence."

    Gertrude could only stare at Aries as she spoke about vague things she could barely understand. But she bowed and listened while lighting up the scented candles even though it was too early for bedtime.

    ''Only Abel... his eyes were different,'' Aries thought,paring how his eyes glint and darken every time he looked at her. His eyes always told her he wanted to understand бк his heart or her heart? She was uncertain. But Abel had been her standard in judging people.

    Not that Aries couldn''t judge and study people in the past. She just enjoyedparing in her head.

    The side of her lips curled up. "She''s probably throwing a huge fit right now," she whispered, knowing Inez''s explosive personality. Lobbing small objects sound just like Inez.

    "Mydy, will you be alright?" Aries quirked a brow when Gertrude spoke while lighting up a candle in the corner stand.

    Aries waited until Gertrude turned around to reveal the worry in her eyes. She smiled and chuckled, tilting her head yfully.

    "Guess," she teased, making her personal maid frown.

    "Mydy."

    "Of course, Gertrude." Ariesughed as she carefully leaned back, caressing the armrest, twisting her neck towards the window. "Have you forgotten how I spent the previous months burning the candle at both ends with Sir Conan? That guy... became the emperor''s legal advisor for a reason, even if he shamelessly ims his innocence. He''s more reliable than His Majesty."

    The thought of the whiny Conan brought a genuine smile and gentleness to Aries''s eyes. It didn''t hit her until she started working with Conan how capable and scary thetter truly was.

    Aries witnessed Abel and Isaiah discussed conqueringnds and wars. But not Conan. Even during gatherings to discuss the state of affairs, Conan would usually jot things down and sass while trying to make his point across. Not to mention, Conan was usually buried with a mountain of paperwork thanks to the dutiful emperor, who always acted he became an emperor for fun.

    So, it was truly a surprise that Conan coulde up with a meticulous yet risky strategy. With Aries''s knowledge, she garnered in this ce during her hellish stay; she was certain her hard work would soone to fruition.

    "Soon... they will all seek the scent ofvender." Aries nced at Gertrude, who lit up thest scented candle бк she didn''t light up all of them as she simply wanted to make the room be filled with the faint scent ofvender.

    "Like a gue." бк because everyone who came in contact with her would spread her scent. No one was safe if the virus (Aries) was airborne.

 Chapter 157 So, What?

    Joaquin''s mouth was set in a hard line, ncing indifferently at the people gathered around the table with him sitting on the end of the long oval table.

    "How dare they try to deceive us!" a middle-aged man pounded the bottom of his fist against the surface of the table, smoldering in anger.

    "How dare they insult us by sending His Highness'' ve as the crown princess?!"

    "That woman disappeared during the world summit! The Haimirich Empire had probably nned this a long time ago!"

    "Those bastards...!"

    The men''s outrage was what Joaquin had been hearing all day. They all sing the same words: ve, insulting, the nerve, and the like. It was not like he wasn''t suspicious of his wife''s origin, but it was annoying to hear the same words throughout the day.

    "So what?" Joaquin''s toneless voice put the room to silent, watching everyone look back in his direction. "So what if the emperor of Haimirich Empire sent a ve? Shall we behead her and sent her head back to them as a warning? Or should we dere war with them right off the bat?"

    There was a long silence in the gathering hall of nobles бк mostly attended by the crown prince''s supporters. Joaquin blinkedzily, his eyes glossing over at everyone''s resigned expressions.

    "The emperor of Haimirich Empire will have all the guts and nerves in the world, for he is the mighty sovereign of a nation asrge as Haimirich. He can mess with anyone if he so pleased and will get away with it unscathed." Joaquin stressed as it seemed these people had grown asinine or their ego just inted so much, just because they held a bit of power.

    Truly disappointing.

    "I am not saying our Maganti is less than Haimirich, but do not forget why we proposed this marriage in the first ce. They are not any small kingdom which we can trample without moving from our seats," he continued his lecture, tapping his fingers against the armrest, his eyes giving them equal attention. "We can send our troops and wage a war if that is what you all want, but know that my men''s lives... each one of you will pay if their death were all in vain."

    <strong>SILENCE...</strong>

    p The men around the table swallowed the building tension in their throats. Some cleared their throat with their chest out, huffing to contain their dramatic pronouncements.</anda>

    "Everyone is just so infuriating." Joaquin ran his tongue against his inner cheek, finally gaining some time of peace after a hectic day.

    Even though his marriage was a political marriage, agreed for mutual benefits, he deserved some peace. But instead of felicitations, nonstop qualms had been ringing in his ear.

    Once the silence settled in the room, Joaquin''s eyes sharpened. "Let''s say the crown princess is indeed the fallen princess of Rikhill. Then, what? Does it matter?" he lifted a brow, leaning his arms against the edge of the table, hands inteced in front.

    "She came here with the Haimirich''s envoy, rode the imperial carriage, and married me as Danie Circe Vandran. In other words, her roots matters not. I secured my seat and gained more influence than my ambitious brothers," he continued, scrutinizing everyone thoroughly while the side of his lips curled up. "Whatever she is nning is not a problem, since I can prepare for what she had in store for me."

    An air of confidence emanated from him as he leaned back. "That is if she is my Aries. But if my wife, Circe, and Aries simply share resemnce and she is truly the sister of the aristocrat leader in Haimirich, then we will have to prepare for a war that will surelyst for years. Worse. Decades. If we made the wrong judgment."

    "Although the Marquess Vandran will me the emperor of Haimirich if Circe was harmed, they would set their attention on us first before they fight amongst themselves," he continued. "Moreover, her death can be used as an excuse as our provocation, consequently putting a strain on my name and losing the public''s support. Didn''t that cross your head, and I had to spell it out for all of you to reach this conclusion?"<sub> </sub>

    Joaquinughed in ridicule, shaking his head as these men sometimes disappoint him with their narrow minds. "Really upsetting," he spat out.

    No one argued with him or voiced out their objections; they wouldn''t win against this argument after all. Joaquin benefited from this marriage either way, so it truly didn''t matter. Pushing their luck further could only lead to a more negative result.

    "For now, keep your eyes and ears open in the current state of affairs in Haimirich and treat the crown princess with the utmost respect. Until I am certain of her origins, no one will ever touch or insult her," Joaquin warned, but these words weren''t out of concern for Aries. "One word from her and she can put a wedge in our rtionship with Haimirich. Until our Maganti is prepared, tread on eggshell if you must."

    Joaquin paused as he drew a breath. "Understood?"

    "Yes, Your Highness!"

    "Good." He rocked his head, studying everyone and pleased they understood his point.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    After Joaquin dismissed everyone from the gathering hall, he remained in his seat. When he was left alone with a few of his trusted aides, he nced at the towering man in a knight suit.

    "Speak." He beckoned, causing the knight to lower his head.

    "I had gathered the information Your Highness needed regarding his wife, the crown princess," reported the knight sternly. "ording to the people we nted in Haimirich, they confirmed that the tension between the aristocrat and imperialist increased upon the emperor of Haimirich''s royal decree regarding Lady Vandran''s betrothal..."

    Joaquin listened in silence whilst tapping his fingers against his armrest. He ordered his men to investigate and confirm everything the second time right after his wedding yesterday, but just like the first report that came to him, it seemed his wife was truly valued in Haimirich.

    It was said that her betrothal caused mild unrest, which was put in a truce upon his wife''s acknowledgment in this wedding. One would say Aries was kind and wanted peace, but for Joaquin, her actions only meant one thing.

    Her words had power.

    "And your thoughts?" asked Joaquin, ncing at his knight, his sword, a look. Thetter remained quiet for a moment before he breathed out.

    "There is no loophole, but that makes it even more suspicious. Slow-witted I may be, this humble subject thinks it is still not enough to prove that the crown princess isn''t that woman."

    "That''s right. It could be a meticulous y orchestrated by the emperor," Joaquin agreed while rocking his head. "But we cannot also deny that this might also be the truth. Either way..."

    He trailed off as the side of his lips curled up into a devious smirk. "I can always find out whether or not she is my beloved Aries." He then cast his aide a knowing look.

    "You know what to do. Prepare my gift that was meant for Aries. I wonder what would be my wife''s reaction." His eyes glinted wickedly and whatever he had in mind, his cunning expression screamed it was nothing but trouble.

 Chapter 158 Lets Be Friends

    Aries fluttered her eyshes as she raised her gaze at the door upon hearing a knock. She watched it slowly open, seeing a towering man with hair the color of blood and eyes the hue of burning ash.

    Her lips curled up, adjusting her back against the headboard of the bedfortably. She kept the book on herp, which was on top of the sheet covering her legs, a winess on the nightstand.

    "Look who''s here," she greeted Joaquin without standing up to wee him. "I thought you will note."

    "I promised, didn''t I?" he asked whilst removing his coat, draping it on the chair not far away from the bed where she was sitting on. "Did I make you wait?"

    "Not at all." Aries smiled with her lips closed, shrugging. "I had somepany today. Hence, I didn''t feel dispirited than I initially thought I would be."

    "Apany?" Joaquin quirked a brow as he sauntered towards the bed, sitting on the edge, palms on either side of him.

    "My husband, it''s a bad practice for you to sit on the bed right after you arrived from outside."

    "Is that a custom in Haimirich?"

    "It''s called being hygienic." She shrugged, sporting a cunning grin. "I don''t know who you met and whose filthy hands those hands shook throughout the day. I''d rather not have their lingering scent on the sheet I would sleep on."

    "Blunt, as always," Joaquin whistled as he looked at her in amusement. To appease her, he raised his hands from the mattress.

    "Don''t chase me away, Circe. Your husband had a rough day and I would like to sit for a bit and stare at my gorgeous wife to replenish my energy."

    Aries smirked as she huffed. "Suit yourself, but don''t touch me."

    "Why?" His expression dulled.

    "I hate filth." She returned almost instantly, staring straight into his eyes. "Just as I said, I don''t know whose hands those hands shook and held. I''d rather not have their scent on me. Your wife has a frail body. Hence, I might fall ill once I bathe in the middle of the night just to get their scent off of me."

    Joaquin gazed at her squarely, seeing the unfaltering resolve in her eyes. If this was someone else, he would''ve grabbed her neck and choked her until she begged for mercy. But Aries knew he wouldn''t do that.

    "You''re breaking my heart." He frowned mildly, about to stand up to leave and wash up first. Something he wouldn''t do for someone else as it grazed his ego, but he had to y along with her for now.

    But before he could strand, Aries raised her foot and ced it on his thigh. He raised a brow and cast her a look of wonder.

    "I said, don''t touch me, but I didn''t say you can''t look at me." She clicked her tongue and rolled her eyes. "Rest for a bit and indulge with my beauty to replenish your energy."

    Aries picked up the book on herp and pretended to read it while Joaquin furrowed his brows beforeughing in amusement. She looked quite adorable, especially when she was trying so hard to keep her fierce front.

    "I really can''t touch you?" he asked, warranting him a re from her.

    "No means no."

    ''No means yes when I say it''s a yes,'' he replied internally, knowing there was nothing in this world that he set his eyes on that he didn''t get by means or by foul.

    "I''ll ask someone to change the sheet." He voiced out,promising for her willingly. He then wrapped his hand around her foot that was on his thigh, holding it with the quilt in between them.

    Aries pressed her lips as she nced at her foot before raising them up at him. Joaquin was looking at her with a charming smile, massaging her foot gently.

    "I''m not touching you... directly. So this is fine, right?" he gave her a lopsided grin.

    "Well." She took a deep breath before moving her other foot to hisp. "It''s not bad if someone will rece the sheetter. But only for tonight."<sub> </sub>

    Aries bit her lips to suppress it from stretching wide, ying with his hands on her toes. Joaquin just stare at her for a moment before his eyes sparked with something... puzzling.

    "Are you happy?" he asked, observing how her brows rose. "This."

    "I did a lot of walking today as the head maid showed me around the pce."

    "You should''ve told her you don''t feel well, and I told you to rest."

    Aries frowned as her toes stopped moving. "If you truly want me to stay in here, you should''ve stayed. Else, I''ll go mad stuck inside the chambers all alone."

    "You should''ve told me this morning then."

    "If I tell you, will you stay?" she tilted her head, batting her eyes ever so slowly. "Will you consider missing a day from your duty for a woman whom you just met the first time yesterday?"

    The answer was definitely a no. If Aries made such a request earlier, Joaquin would surely find her annoying. They were both aware of that.

    Aries let out a deep exhale as she lowered her eyes at her feet over hisp.

    "I don''t me you for having duties to fulfill. My brother is the same. If I don''t join him in his office for some tea, I wouldn''t see him," she expressed, eyes softening as she recalled her brother, lips curling up bitterly. "I may be too much on many things, but a moment of the people close to me is enough for me."

    She raised her eyes at him and smiled subtly. "You''re my husband now, and you will be the father of my children. You may not love me or I may not love you now, but I am hopeful there will be at least a bit of affection to make this marriage bearable."

    Unlike her fierce approach yesterday and moments ago, her eyes now shimmered with sincerity.

    "Let''s be friends, Joaquin." She offered him a subtle smile, but Joaquin was rather nonchnt about her offer.

    "I don''t want to be your friend. You''re my wife and the woman whose body I ached for."

    "So what? We can be friends and also have fun at the same time." She giggled mischievously, hiding the lower half of her face with the open book. Her eyes gaze at him over it.

    "No hard feelings," came out a yful offer, wiggling her brows while her foot caressed his thigh. "You should wash up and join me... as friends."

    Joaquin nced at her foot under the sheet as he drew his lower lip from between his teeth, cked jaw. That simple caress sent electricity to the ends of his nerves, and the thought of crossing the line between friends amplified it.

    Surely, there was something in the idea of the forbidden that thrilled a man like him.

    He nced up at her, sporting a frown. "I can''t touch you?" he asked once again as he honestly didn''t have the patience to bathe, only to sweat bucketster.

    But Aries was heartless as she red at him. "No! If you truly want to touch me, then make haste ande back to me!"

    Joaquin sighed and, in the end, he gave in. "Fine." He nced at her with a frown, making her giggle.

    "Tell me you''re demanding this much because you enjoy it."

    "Of course... not." She giggled, watching him shake his head before pushing himself away from the mattress.

    As he left, Aries'' sweet smile faded and was slowly reced with coldness.

    "Disgusting," she scoffed as she nced at her feet. "I feel like throwing up."

 Chapter 159 [Bonus Chapter]Thanks For The 100 GT!

    Just like Aries first night with Joaquin, he passed out even before they could go further. Although... she still had to snuggle with him and y for a bit.

    ''This will be the sight I will be looking at from now on,'' she told herself while lying on her side, propping her temple against her knuckles. She raised her hand to caress his dark red hair with her fingertips.

    "It''s not ck," she whispered, another thing to hate about Joaquin and this ce. "How upsetting."

    Aries withdrew her hand and inhaled sharply. She just met two members of the Imperial Family бк Inez and Joaquin бк but the fire in her heart was slowly consuming her from the inside.

    "Mhm..." she quirked a brow when Joaquin let out a groan and moved slightly, still deep in his sleep.

    "I guess he having fun." She snickered and moved closer to him, studying his face up close. She then leaned into his ear and whispered.

    "How does it feel being fucked by me, Joaquin? I''ll have more things to do with you. So enjoy every bit of it, hmm?"

    Her eyes zed as she nced at his side, smiling dangerously as she drew back. Even when Aries loathed this man and was itching to suffocate him right at this second, she couldn''t deny that her patience was also running thin.

    She was also upset in a way.

    "I missed him," she breathed out, cold eyes still at Joaquin. "Joaquin."

    Aries cupped his lean face and frowned. "Can you die now?" she asked sincerely, but the answer she received was his deep breaths.

    "It''s just the second night and I feel like something already snapped." бк or maybe, she had snapped a long time ago and, just like always, she naturally deceived herself that she was sane and everyone believed that... except one.

    ? Abel.

    "My husband..." she stroked Joaquin''s cheek gently while her eyelids dropped until they were partially closed. "I take my words back. Don''t die... just yet, hmm? Stay with me? I still have a lot of things to show you."

    The corner of her lips curled up amusingly, suppressing herughter while keeping her lips closed. When she recovered, she arched a brow and nced at the ss door leading to the balcony.

    Aries stretched her neck and gaze over Joaquin, furrowing her brows upon seeing a raven outside, on the floor.

    "Morro?" Relief took over her face as she nearly jumped out of the bed. However, Joaquin''s groan stopped her, making her slip out of the bed discreetly.

    Once Aries was out of the bed, she tiptoed her way towards the entrance to the balcony. Squatting down, she stroked the raven''s head with her index before taking out the letter tied around its feet.

    "Wait!" she whispered aloud, seeing that the raven fluttered its wings as soon as she took out the letter. As if the raven would stop and understand her. So Aries hurriedly voiced out in a whisper.<sub> </sub>

    "Tell Abel I miss him."

    Her voice, however, faded into the still air as she watched the raven fly away. What was she thinking? As if the raven would understand her.

    She frowned, crouched down with the rolled letter in her hand. "I really miss him... so bad." Aries bit her inner lip bitterly, hesitant to open the letter for some reason.

    Having to spend a second with the man she loathed the most felt suffocating. Even though this was her means of revenge, having to smile sweetly, act as if she was slowly falling for Joaquin, expressing the lies as if they were the truth, was enervating in its own way.

    But that doesn''t mean she would stop. She was still adjusting and she would soon get used to living this lie бк just like how she also believed the lie of being Danie Circe Vandran.

    Abel was the only truth she needed.

    A subtle smile dominated her face as she gazed at the rolled parchment in her hand. That was right. For as long as Abel existed, she was certain she could live in deception and delude herself until her lie bes her truth, but... Abel would be her constant reminder of who she was and what her name was.

    "I wish him a safe journey," she whispered, opening the letter, tilting her head to the side. "I?"

    ssic Abel. The man who would waste a parchment and send his raven to deliver a nonsensical letter. Aries could still remember the time he sent her just dots, but now, it was just a single letter "I."

    "Pfft--!" She covered her lips, stopping herself from bursting out inughter. "I, what? I miss you? Love you? I want to hold you? Goodness, love. Did he run out of ink? He never fails to give me something to mull about."

    Aries shook her head mildly, but somehow, that single letter took some things off of her mind. Now she had to think about what Abel was trying to tell her, instead of getting drunk with the silent scream that she was holding in.

    "I miss you more," she whispered, guiding the letter to her lips, closing her eyes, inhaling the lingering scent of Abel on it.

    Abel had this distinct scent. Even when he was covered with blood and sweats and the smell of cigar or wine. This distinct natural odor of the emperor of Haimirich was something that made him smell... delectable. Which the people in this ce didn''t carry.

    "Just one letter and I feel a lot better." Her smile remained as she clutched the letter close to her chest. "I feel like... I could finally breathe."

    Her eyes shimmered affectionately, standing up, eyes up at the night sky. There was no star apanying the moon, but somehow, in her eyes, it didn''t feel lonely.

    If anything, the moon looked as though she scared all the stars, as it was shining brightly. Not as intense as the sun, but just enough to bring light into the dark, silent night.

    "Goodnight, Abel. I''ll see you in my dreams."

 Chapter 160 [Bonus Chapter]Summoning Pen Answered!

    <strong>[ Haimirich Empire: House of Vandran ]</strong>

    In the silent Vandran residence, Dexter sat leisurely on the armchair, watching the woods in the firece get devoured by fire. He listened to the crackle of the fire, holding a ss of wine that he could barely enjoy.

    He received a word that Aries had already stepped foot in the imperial pce of the Maganti Empire. The reason he had been silent throughout the day.

    "She will be fine," he whispered, jaw tightening as he clenched his teeth. His eyes glistened as he breathed out heavily.

    Not that he didn''t trust Aries''s capabilities and her natural talent in deceiving others. In fact, Dexter, among all people, knew how spellbinding Aries was.

    Deep in his heart, he was aware that Aries was Aries and she would never be Danie. Even so, she was his sister.

    People could call her Aries or Danie, but that didn''t change the fact that she was now a part of the Vandran family. The person who brought light into this ce and gave warmth to his cursed life.

    "Stillбн knowing she is awayбн" he sighed, scratching his temple with a finger lightly. "And with those hateful peopleбн I''ll kill them if they ever harmed her."

    The ss in his hand cracked under his grip, and he only realized it when it shattered, spilling wine on the carpet. He nced down at his hand, seeing ss shards on his palm as blood oozed out and dripped down to his fingertips.

    Just before he could think of what to do with his hand, his eyes glinted as the window suddenly opened, causing the night breeze to trespass inside the room.

    "And what do I owe you for this sudden visit?" Dexter inquired with hostility in his tone, shifting his sharp eyes towards the window where a figure was sitting on the windowsill. "Your Majesty?"

    Abel smirked yfully, shrugging. "I need to see someone who looks more miserable than I am. It helps my mood a little bit, knowing I am not suffering alone." He pinched in the air, his tone as revolting as ever.

    "Now that you''ve seen me, I hope you leave my property."

    "Oh, myбн" Abel dramatically ced his palm across his chest, stretching his legs with his buttocks propped against the windowsill. "Aren''t you a little mean, Marquess? It''s only been two days sinceбн ah, right, it''s two months for everyone, huh?"

    He snickered teasingly, biting his lips as he raised his chin. It actually slipped his head that aside from him, Aries had been away from Haimirich for quite some time now. Then, that made this trip in the marquess'' residence even more fun since he could gloat at Dexter to his heart''s content.

    "Did youe here to gloat?" asked Dexter coldly.

    "Oh, no! Of course notбн not much," Abel defended and shrugged. "I truly have toe here because if you are not as miserable as I am, then I might''ve flown back to Maganti to have fun with my darling."

    "If you''re going to ask, how about Haimirich? You can have it. I don''t need it," he added the second Dexter''s lips parted.

    "If Haimirich is something that I want, I would''ve gotten it already." Dexter leaned forward, reaching for the bottle of wine to pour himself another ss. He didn''t mind the blood smearing on the bottle and ss as he picked it up, leaning backfortably. He was already aware Abel wouldn''t leave so easily and he also needed some distractions, so he would probably indulge with him for a bit.

    He rested his leg over the other, ncing at Abel, who helped himself at the stand near the marquess'' desk. Thetter picked up the decanter of whiskey, drinking straight from it.

    "That bottle cost a hundred acres," Dexter stressed and peeled his eyes away from the emperor.

    When Abel hissed in satisfaction, he chuckled as he twisted his body to face Dexter''s vantage point.

    "Oh, you. I can give you an entire kingdom in exchange for this!" he intoned proudly, looking around the marquess''s office.

    The room was just like Dexter. It was boring. There wasn''t even the faintest scent of blood aside from Dexter''s current wound. Abel''s office reeked of death.

    "This ce is dull." ssic Abel, he would have to voice out his dismay.

    "Not everyone is the same as you." Dexter sipped from his winess, licking his lips as he enjoyed the taste of the wine. "I don''t kill for fun."<sub> </sub>

    "Huh? If you don''t kill for fun, then what''s the purpose of killing?" Abel gasped, pacing back and forth leisurely.

    "The purpose, huhбн?" Dexter scoffed under his breath, smirking in ridicule as he gazed at the firece. "Justice? To make the world a better ce?"

    "Hah!" Abel pressed his lips and crossed his arms, the rim of the bottle against his chin. "Are you still saying that? Haven''t you learned your lesson yet? My goodness, Marquess. Even when your sister бк"

    "Don''t..." Dexter paused as he red back at Abel. "бн you dare mention her name with that virulent tongue of yours."

    "Why not, Dexter?" Abel cocked his head to the side. "You have a new sister already бк a better one at that. I don''t understand your rtionship with that bitch when you knew very well howбн"

    Abel''s words trailed off as Dexter suddenly appeared in front of him, grabbing him by the cor. He raised his hand on either side of him, tilting his head.

    "What else do you want from me?" Dexter hissed, eyes bloodshot, fangs grinding against his teeth.

    "Nothingбн or maybe, take away your sister once again just so we can relive those glorious days?"

    Dexter''s grip on Abel''s cor tightened while thetter burst out inughter. His grip tightened until they loosened, pushing Abel as he huffed. He scanned the emperor with eyes full of contempt. In contrast to Dexter, Abel was grinning, pleased to see Dexter lose hisposure every once in a while.

    "Myбн you made this trip very interesting. Now I am at peace, knowing the greatest hunter to ever exist protects my darling even from miles away." Abel''s lips stretched broader until his teeth were showing.

    He waved with the decanter in his hand, sauntering towards the balcony while Dexter watched his back. When he was by the entrance of the balcony, Abel halted and leaned back.

    "Kidding aside, I came here to offer my felicitation for letting that man join his cursed blood to yours." Abel cocked his head back while guiding the decanter to his lips. "Cheers to that."

    "You mean for joining your cursed blood to ours?"

    Abelughed at Dexter''s cold response. "Haven''t this cursed blood run in your veins already?"

    It had been, was what Dexter wanted to respond to him, but the words that came out of his mouth were different.

    "Humans are fickle, and she will soon realize what sort of monster you are."

    Abel held the door, staring at Dexter for a moment. "That''s right." He rocked his head.

    "She will realize that she is mine and there''s no ce in this world I cannot conquer. I can even turn this world into her cage if she left me with no choice. Death can''t even save her." His smirk grew sinister before he left.

    Dexter stared at the ajar door of the balcony, standing still in that same spot for as long as he could remember. When he blinked, a deep exhale slipped past his lips.

    Running his hand through his golden hair, he walked back to his seat.

    "Dani," he whispered, thinking of Aries, who was in another ce far from his reach. Which also meantбн Aries was ironically in a safer ce away from the devious and obsessive emperor of Haimirich.

    "Runaway once your business in the Maganti Empire is finished. Abelбн he already ns on killing you."

    In Haimirich, or rather, the very few people who were closed to Abel бк be it as the emperor''s loyal subjects or enemy бк knew the emperor''s shenanigans. Just like how Isaiah noticed Abel''s interest in the ruinednd of Rikhill бк meaning Haimirich''s value in the emperor''s eyes was about to reach rock bottom бк Dexter had also noticed the hidden anticipation in the emperor''s eyes.

    He was already nning for Aries''s grand returnбн from death.

    "Don''t mistake his feelings as loveбн Dani. Just like what he did to Dan and to me... he will turn you into a monster."

 Chapter 161 She Is His New Haimirich

    Meanwhile, in the imperial pce of Haimirich...

    "Ugh... I miss Lady Aries!" Conan sulked with the side of his head on top of the stacked books on the table in the inner pce library. "I feel like I just married my daughter off to a scumbag without gaining a copper!"

    His frown grew worse by the second. It had been two months since Aries left the empire, and from his intel, they Aries had already reached the Maganti Empire.

    "This is all His Majesty''s fault!" he grumbled. "Lady Aries would still be here if only he used his bright head for once!"

    Isaiah, who just wanted to have some peace and time alone in the library of the inner pce, was stuck in a paragraph, as Conan''s twittering was distracting him.

    Although the two sat far away from each other, with Isaiah near the window, while Conan was on the second floor of the library near the railings, thetter still disturbed him. Now, Isaiah was certain this was Conan''s talent.

    "May he find a wife so he can go home," mumbled Isaiah while flipping the page carefully.

    "Hey, you witch! What did you say?!" Conan sprung up and red daggers at him, draping an arm over the backrest of his chair. "Did you just curse me?! Is this the reason that until now, I haven''t gotten a wife?!"

    Isaiah shot him a nonchnt look. "I was praying for you."

    "Pray?" Conan snorted, eyes full of ridicule. "A witch only knows how to curse."

    "May His Majesty live a long life as well."

    "I knew it!" Conan ground his teeth, springing up as he held on to the railings. "How can you pray for His Majesty''s longevity when he''s been suicidal since forever!?"

    Isaiah nced up once again, blinking twice. "How can I curse His Majesty? You should start a rebellion for fun or destroy Haimirich so we can migrate to Rikhill."

    "What?!" Conan gasped as he ced his hand dramatically across his chest.

    "I''m saying Haimirich''s value in His Majesty''s eyes already hit rock bottom. Just destroy it... or maybe kill all of us so we can start rebuilding Rikhill." Isaiah''s voice didn''t raise or lower, but Conan still heard his monotonous voice loud and clear. He fixed his eyes on the book he was reading, expression still unreadable бк or rather, he just didn''t bear any particr emotion at all.

    "A rebellion won''t salvage it, though."

    Conan frowned as Isaiah was so indifferent about it, even though they settled in Haimirich for quite a long time now. "Hah! You should surrender the dukedom then!"

    "Will sign the papers tomorrow."

    "Wait! You will?"

    "I don''t see any reason why not." Isaiah flipped another page and shrugged. "You know him and what he can do. He moved the coven just because he wants to join Lady Aries'' journey so he could sate his insatiable hunger and thirst and fast for two months."<sub> </sub>

    This time, his eyes fogged with darkness and solemnity. "He broke his and everyone''s pattern for the feast, and now everyone just craves for more."

    When those words flew out of Isaiah''s mouth, Conan frowned. That was right. Abel left Haimirich in turmoil. Although it looked peaceful for those who didn''t know, those lurking in the night were suffering from their own blood, yearning for another.

    DUN! DUN! DUN!

    Suddenly, the faint sound of the piano reached their ears, putting a halt to their argument. A line appeared between their brows as they gazed at each other.

    Abel was back and was ying the piano; a habit the emperor does whenever he was gravitating about his next move. Next as in, what kind of disaster would be enough to get crazy things out of his mind.

    "You!" Conan snapped and pointed a finger at Isaiah. "You better not support His Majesty''s whim! I already have a lot on my te and starting from scratch is something I don''t want to do!"

    He grumpily clicked his tongue and shot Isaiah a re before hopping off of the second floor. Conannded safely from that height and sprung back up as if nothing had happened.

    p "Goodness! Why would hee back bringing trouble again!? Such an irresponsible emperor! Why did he even build Haimirich in the first ce if he ns to destroy it eventually?!" As Conan stormed away to obviously nag Abel for sneaking out of Haimirich without giving a heads up, Isaiah just watched his figure until his shadow disappeared.</anda>

    "He should''ve continued living his vagabond lifestyle instead of stressing over something menial." Isaiah shook his head, peeling his eyes away from the door to the window on his side. "We had all seen thising, anyway. It''s just a matter of when."

    There was a long silence that descended on the library after his remarks. He was certain if they asked Abel why he established the empire, his answer would be as simple as, "I forgot."

    It''s been a long time, after all. Knowing Abel, he was the type who only does what interests him, and ying as the emperor for a long time was starting to bore him now.

    His emotionless eyes remained the same as he wondered. ''When did it start?'' бк when did Abel stop thinking of the affairs in Haimirich?

    Dexter yed a good role in keeping Abel busy all these years. Conan would incite rebellion for him once in a while to spice things up, and Isaiah never stopped offeringnds to conquer that might interest the emperor.

    "Since she arrived," he answered under his breath, tracing the first change, and that was when Aries stepped into Abel''s life. "It all started when he returned midway on his journey to the council gathering."

    That was right. It all started at that time when Abel started ying the piano once again.

    Isaiah closed the book and carefully ced it on top of the round table. He pushed himself up with his hands on the armrest to stand in front of the window. Opening it slightly, his lips parted, chanting ancient words that barely a few would understand.

    "Morro, how is Lady Aries?" he whispered after a while, gazing at the vast night sky. It took quite a long time before he heard a deep voice of a man in his head.

    "Upset."

    Followed by the continuous sound of piano keys that was heard across the capital, causing lurkers in the night to walk out of their dwellings.

 Chapter 162 Meeting The Imperials

    Two days had gone by in a blur, with Aries adjusting to her new life as Danie Circe Vandran-Imperial. Her life was the recurring cycle of indulging with her husband Joaquin and sitting daintily in the crown prince''s quarters.

    Thanks to Joaquin, no one bothered her for the past two days so his wife could fully rest. It was no secret that the crown princess had frail health, so she had to familiarize herself with her new home first.

    But after two days, they finally summoned her to join the first family dinner. A weing dinner for her with her inws.

    "Sister, how are you faring so far?"

    Aries blinked and raised her opalescent eyes at the man across from her. His bright auburn hair бк the trademark of the royal family бк shimmered under the chandelier. His eyes, the color of newly polished silver, fastened with amusement upon locking eyes with her.

    "Thanks to everyone''s help, I am adjusting quite well," came out a soothing voice, ncing to her right where Joaquin was sitting at. Thetter shot her a nce while guiding the winess to his lips.

    "Heh." Joaquin winked coquettishly before Aries peeled her eyes away from him.

    "Hah. Is that so?" the man with a cocky grin and impish eyes, Ismael Imperial, the third prince,ughed as he nced at Joaquin. "That''s right, sister-inw. The crown prince is truly kind, especially to his..."

    She lifted her brows as Ismael trailed off, ncing at Joaquin, who was looking back at his brother with sharp eyes. Aries blinked twice, almost innocently, while darting them between the brothers.

    "... to his people." Ismael shed her a smile as if hemunicated with Joaquin in that momentary silence.

    Although aware of the bad blood between brothers, Aries smiled as she nodded in understanding. She gazed at Joaquin once again, only to catch the glint that flickered across his eyes, which faded when he looked back at her.

    "Is the food to your liking?" he asked, reaching for her hand on herp.

    "Yes." Her smile persisted before setting her eyes back to the people around the long dining table. Everyone бк princes and their first wives, and the princesses who were acknowledged by the emperor бк except the emperor and the empress were in here.

    Aries could still feel the distrust hidden in their eyes, but the members of the royal family were equally cunning and knew how to y along. So, the moment of silence upon Aries and Joaquin''s arrival didn''tst that long.

    They didn''t even mention the dead emerging from hell anding back to haunt them. However, Aries was aware some of them were already concocting a scheme in their heads to use her against Joaquin. Not the kind of scheme to assassinate her, but the argument of Aries''s origins.

    ''Well, that''s the n, anyway,'' Aries kept her amicable front while everyone was having a good time discussing ''good'' things. ''They will keep Joaquin busy for sure. The effect of the candles will weaken if he keeps sleeping in my room.''

    While she kept her silence, listening to the conversation, Aries felt someone''s gaze from the farthest spot from her left. Her eyes veered towards it only to see Inez staring at her, unsmiling.

    ''She hasn''t visited me since then. I wonder what is she nning...'' Aries offered a slight smile at her and tilted her head down. Thetter didn''t return her smile but looked away like a real diva. She ignored the cold shoulders.

    ''Everything is still calm,'' she told herself, knowing the reason for this calmness was because everyone was still busy nning their next move. ''I should start before them.''<sub> </sub>

    When Aries returned her eyes to the people around the table, her smile stretched very subtly. Each and everyone around this table... had a fair share of the downfall of Rikhill and her misery.

    Not just Joaquin and Inez, Ismael too, and everyone. Although some of them didn''t touch her, turning a blind eye to their sibling''s madness was also a responsibility in itself and they must face consequences. Well, there were two exceptions.

    "Tired?" Aries was brought back from her train of thoughts when a hand squeezed her. She looked up and saw Joaquin''s deceivingly gentle visage.

    She clipped his hand with her thumb. "Not much."

    "I see..." He rocked his head before facing his siblings, knowing her reply was the opposite of what she felt. "As much as it disheartens me, my wife and I will have to excuse ourselves first."

    "Aww... too soon?" Ismael frowned as if he truly loved Joaquin''spany. While the rest voiced out their ''disappointments,'' Aries nced at Inez secretly.

    Thetter''s eyes grew icy as she watched Joaquin assist his wife away. That look Aries gave her... that one look that wasn''t meant for others to see surely meant something.

    ''I will kill her and Joaquin.'' Her eyes glinted menacingly, following the newlywed''s figure as they made their exit.

    The broader the distance of the crown prince and crown princess, the jovial noises in the dining hall slowly faded. When Joaquin and Aries were out of sight, it was dead silent.

    "Fucking karma." Ismael was the first to break the silence, leaning back as heughed in amusement. "What are the odds that she''s that bitch?"

    "Your tone, third brother." The fourth prince, sitting several seats from where Aries perched previously, spoke with an air of nonchnce. Unlike Ismael, whose facial structure was akin to a cunning fox, the fourth prince Enrique appeared to be aloof.

    "You heard what happened during their wedding."

    "Even if she is that whore, it changes nothing." Carlos, the eighth prince, who was sitting close to Ismael, added. His dark grey eyes glinted as he licked his lips. "Well, I can confirm if she is her or not if I have a taste."

    "Heh. Horny bastard." Ismaelughed as he cast the eighth prince''s a look. "Do that and Joaquin will surely use that as leverage."

    "This conversation drags my intelligence down." Inez wiped the corner of her lips as she nced at Carlos''s wife, who didn''t even flinch at her husband''s perverse remarks. Well, his wife was already numb to Carlos''s promiscuous lifestyle. Not just her, but everydy in here already knew how these men y.

    As Inez walked away, she heard Ismael''s yful taunting, "stop acting so high and mighty just because His Majesty favors you, sister," but she didn''t look back at them.

    Her eyes, however, sharpened as they glinted. ''Say that again when I make you grovel at my feet.''

 Chapter 163 Reeling The Fish In

    Joaquin and Aries decided to take a stroll in the garden after the meal. Walking side by side, Aries nced to her right where her husband was walking, his hands inteced behind him, keeping his silence.

    "You don''t seem well, husband." She broke the silence between the two of them, watching Joaquin cast her a quick nce. "Are you alright?"

    "Of course." He sported a smile that didn''t reach his eyes. "Why wouldn''t I? How about you? Did you enjoy the food?"

    This time, Aries closed her lips and raised her chin, eyes ahead, feeling the soothing night breeze hitting her face. She kept quiet for several seconds, feeling his gaze on her side as their steps slowed down.

    "I thought I would get indigestion," she confessed and chuckled, ncing at him with a yful visage. "I am no fool, husband. The rancor between siblings isn''t news to me. Isn''t that one of the reasons the royal family in Haimirich kept their bloodline at a minimum to avoid such a problem from arising? It all happens in many noble houses when everyone wants to steal the title of the heir. I heard many of them."

    Aries stopped in her stride and faced Joaquin squarely. Looking up to meet his eyes, a gentle smile appeared on her face. Her hand raised, cupping his lean jaw, brushing it with her thumb.

    "I am saying my husband''s enemies are mine. If you think I am simply saying this out of affection, it is not." His brow arched, listening to her honest remarks. "You are now my husband and I am now the crown princess of the Maganti Empire. Your downfall will also be mine бк or worse. I also need to surviveбн darling."

    His eyes narrowed as they glinted, staring at her eyes that didn''t conceal the contempt within. This was what he liked about his wife. She was honest and not foolish to act in the name of ''love.'' She wasn''t ''gaslighting'' him by speaking words of love. Although there were times she would speak such words with pure innocence.

    ''You better not be that Aries,'' he thought as he reached her cheek and brushed it gently with his thumb. ''It would be nice if you aren''t.''

    Joaquin sported a gentle smile as he held down the hand that was on his cheek without letting it go. "Let''s continue our stroll before the wind gets colder."

    "Yes." She smiled.

    With that being said, Aries and Joaquin walked into the garden with their hands inteced. From an outsider''s point of view, they looked like a lovely couple.

    A beautiful woman whose every action spoke elegance and a man who carried himself with pride and authority. But that also made things unrealistic.

    In the world, they were moving in and the responsibility they carry with their name, loveбн was not something that would bloom. Especially if their hands intertwined wasn''t enough to close the distance their pain, ambition, greed, and the past had created between them.

    Their heartбн or rather, her heart was no longer avable.

    A certain devil already made sure of that.

    <strong>********</strong>

    That night after the dinner with members of the royal family, Joaquin didn''t stay in her room, thankfully. The crown prince was busy and had to attend to his duties, which Aries understood. She already adjusted to this ce quite well, so she didn''t mind spending the night alone.<sub> </sub>

    "Gertrude," Aries called, causing her personal maid to look back at her when she was by the door to let the crown princess rest for the night.

    "Yes, Your Highness?"

    Aries was sitting on the edge of the bed, smiling kindly. "You forgot the candles."

    "But Your Highness, didn''t you say you will sleep alone for the night?" asked Gertrude with furrowed brows, watching Aries'' smile stretched a little wider.

    "I did, but you still need to light them up. I like the scent ofvender," Aries returned as she slipped under the sheet, resting her back against the bed''s headboard, and then continued as she picked up the book on the nightstand. "It''s quite addictive."

    Gertrude pressed her lips in a hard line before letting out a faint sigh. "Yes, Your Highness." She bowed slightly before lighting up all the candles in the room as she only lit up a few, enough to fill the room with the faint scent ofvender.

    Honestly, Gertrude had noticed that the chambermaids cleaning up the crown princess''s room had been talking about the scent ofvender. Although Aries exined the effects of the candles infused with a secret ingredient, it wasn''t deadly if someone inhaled it slightly. Still, for Aries to keep breathing it in every single night with such amount, Gertrude could not help but worry.

    Noticing the expression on Gertrude''s face, Aries chuckled. "Don''t worry, Gertrude. It almost smells like the greenhouse back home. Oh, actually, my room in here smells better."

    "Mydy."

    "Gertrude." Aries smacked her lips, as Gertrude had been too uptight. Understandable. They were now in anothernd and it was just the three of them: Gertrude, Minerva, and Aries, that came from Haimirich, who now lived within the castle walls of the Maganti Empire.

    "I did say the crown prince told me he wouldn''t visit tonight," she exined, setting her eyes on the book on herp while her eyes drooped dangerously. "But as I''ve said, the scent ofvender is quite soothing. It helps people to rx." бк it was a drug after all.

    Gertrude let out another deep sigh as she nodded. As usual, she held her breath as the scent ofvender grew stronger. When she was finished lighting up thest candle, Gertrude faced Aries''s direction and bowed.

    "I''ll now take my leave, Your Highness."

    "Have a good night." Aries waved, watching her personal maid leave until the soft click of the door hummed in her ears. The side of her lips slowly curled up as she peeled her eyes away from the door.

    ''I did say the effect of the candles will weaken if he keeps sleeping in here, but not yet,'' she thought, raising the book to read it. ''He was barely hookedбн and almost is never enough for me. He needs to be dependent.''

    A burst of faintughter slipped past her lips as her eyes glinted. ''Tonight... I will be reeling the fish in.''

 Chapter 164 Taking The Bait

    "Your Highness, you don''t seem well."

    Joaquin stood by the railings of the second floor of the private residence, situated in the heart of the capital. It was a private residence, but inside, it was a gambling house where noblemen find their luck and enjoy thepany of women.

    "Is this about Ismael?" asked the man whose hair and eyes shared the same as the members of the royal family. "Are you bothered that your wife, the crown princess, will change her opinions towards you?"

    "Javier, my wife''s opinions about me don''t matter. You''re mistaken to think she is just as pure as what she appears. Have you forgotten what happened during the wedding?" Joaquin offered his brother, Javier, the fifth prince and also his ally, a side-eye. "She came from Haimirich. Although we don''t know what it is like living in such a ce, I''m certain people had died just after speaking a few words from those lips."

    "Hahбн" Javier propped his side and elbow against the railings, scrutinizing Joaquin''s side profile with genuine wonder in his eyes. "Brother, do you really think she is not Aries? They looked almost... no, they looked exactly the same and I would wager my limb if she turns out she isn''t. The resemnce is alright, but that face is exactly the same."

    Joaquin remained silent while swirling the winess in his hand before guiding it to his lips. "Who knows?" he whispered before chugging the wine down his throat.

    "Wellбн" Javier leaned his arms against the railings, watching a particr table on the first floor as the tension around it increased. "Someone''s losing. These men are surely fascinating. The gambling house''s only purpose is to suck people''s fortune and soul until there''s none left. They don''t learn their lessons."

    "Their foolishness is filling up my treasury and keeps Ismael at bay." Joaquin licked his lip, keeping his stony countenance as one nobleman threw a huge fit after losing all his money in thest round. His eyes glinted as its corner crinkled along with a sinister smirk.

    "Just a couple more, and I don''t need to put up with these activities."

    Javier''s brows rose as he nced at him, closed lips. "You really want to clean your track record? I mean, no one knew about this and all other businesses, and I bet no one will ever know. Their heads would be rolling on the ground even before they can speak a word."

    "With my wife''s face and knowing how cunning Ismael is, he needs to go. I''ve been too lenient to him and he had grown some balls just because I hadn''t messed with him just yet." His tone remained cid as if he wasn''t talking about his brother, who shared the same blood running through their veins, demise. "He will surely target Circe and cause trouble with Haimirich."

    Joaquin paused as his eyshes fluttered ever so tenderly. "I''m not saying I''m not questioning my wife''s origins, but even so, I cannot disregard the fact that the empire who sent her is Haimirich. Many things are at y and I need to y my cards right."

    A glint flickered across his eyes as his sinister smirk persisted. The memory of Aries in the garden and speaking what was pleasant to listen to was touching, but at the same time, words weren''t enough to sway his opinions. After all, everything he was telling her as well were the words she might want to hear. Knowing his wife, he could only take her words with a pinch of salt.

    "May Ismael rest in peace." Javier chuckled while shaking his head, raising his brows as he snapped his eyes at the entrance of the second floor. The side of his lips stretched into a wide grin before cocking his head at Joaquin.

    "Brother, you''ve been so busy. Why not rx for a bit, eh?" Joaquin arched a brow, only to see Javier''s yful smirk while tipping his head toward the stairs. "They are the new recruits."

    Javier pushed himself away from the railing and leaned on his side to his brother, whispering. "They''re virgins. Some gamblers paid their debts with their daughters. Before they start working, why not have fun with them first?"

    Joaquin cocked his head back and studied the threedies wearing provocative outfits, nervously standing by the entrance. Just as his lips curled up as they didn''t look bad, Aries''s face suddenly crossed his head. Before he could stop himself, he alreadypared her with them.

    Thedies, although, had their own charms, couldn''tpare even to his wife''s fingertips. It was not an exaggeration. His wifeбн was blessed with a beauty that was rare and out of this world. The reason he couldn''t fully trust her was that that kind of beauty was something he wouldn''t forget. He wouldn''t forget that Aries.

    "Take them to my yroom." As if to spite his wife and Aries, Joaquin ordered and chugged down the remaining wine in his ss. Javier''s grin stretched from ear to ear excitedly before he beckoned the manager of the ce to take thedies to Joaquin''s private room.

    **********

    Beforeing to the designated room for Joaquin to y with the poordies, he consumed more wine than usual. But it was just enough for him to loosen up and forget so he could enjoy himself after spending nights with just one woman.<sub> </sub>

    As soon as he barged inside, he stopped by the door. His eyesnded on thedies lying naked on the bed, while one of them was crawling on the floor as if wanting to flee but to no avail. She was too weak after they injected her drug so they wouldn''t be able to fight back.

    Joaquin''s eyes glinted as he licked his lips. That one on the floor caught his eyes and someone who had a strong will like her just seemed to be more delectable than the other two, who were like dead fish on the bed. He took off his coat, draping it over the chair he passed by on his way to the woman crawling on the floor.

    "Hello there, kitty," came out a dangerous voice, grabbing a chunk of her hair up, causing the woman to squeal weakly. But just as he did to drag her to the settee nearby, he frowned when her perfume wafted through his nostrils. He got used to the lovely scent of his wife that he felt like the perfume of thedy was too strong for his taste.

    "Damn," came out an annoyed profanity before mercilessly dragging the woman to the settee.

    "No... no... please..." She held his wrist while pleading with a shaking voice. When they reached the seat, her breath hitched as Joaquin squatted down in front of her.

    "I don''t n to kill you. Be nice." He warned, watching her eyes shake along with her body. "Understand?"

    <o>,m The poor woman kept her quivering lips into a thin line before nodding whilst holding her breath. Seeing that she was quick to understand her situation, Joaquin chuckled in ridicule. With that being said, thedy tried to get up on the settee despite that her bones felt like jelly.</o>

    "Come." She looked at him as he crooked a finger, eyes falling on his unzipped trousers. "Suck it."

    "Pleaseбн Iбн"

    "Suck." Her eyes swam with tears upon hismand, and fear covered her features at his next words. "If you so graze it with your teeth, I''ll break all of them before feeding you to my dogs."

    With her body shaking uncontrobly, she bent over to do what she was told. She held her tears back, afraid to die, although what she was about to do was almost like dying as well.

    Joaquin''s jaw fell open at the clumsy attempt of the woman, whose name he didn''t know, looking heavenward while closing his eyes.

    It wouldn''t get up.

    Or rather, it took him time to get an erection until he thought of his wife''s face. Only when Aries''s face hovered over his head did he get an erection.

    "Damn!" Annoyed, he kicked the woman away while grinding his teeth. His eyes zed while looking at the pale woman, who was looking back at him with fear. "Useless whore."

    Joaquin spat out grumpily as he sprung up to his feet, marching away even before he could start enjoying himself. "Stupid bitch," he muttered. "I''ll go finish with my wife."

    As soon as Joaquin left the room, he nced at the person guarding the door andmanded in an annoyed tone. "Tell Javier to train them properly."

    He didn''t even wait for the guard to respond as he stormed through the empty hallway, on his way back to the imperial pce to see his wife. As if following the scent ofvender since the smell in his yroom was too strong, it was turning his stomach.

    After swimming around the hook, he finally took the bait and was now being reeled in, unaware the surface would eventually suffocate and kill him.

 Chapter 165 Everything Is Calculated

    "Darling,e here."

    From the bed of her room in the Rose Pce, Aries furrowed her brows as she turned her head on the balcony. Leaning against the railing was Abel while enjoying a cigar.

    "I will show you something," he added.

    She blinked twice, watching him crook a finger while nodding encouragingly. Although baffled by his sudden invitation, Aries wrapped her und body with the quilt and flung her legs out of the bed.

    "What is it?" she inquired when she was by the entrance of the balcony.

    "Something you''re about to learn." Abel extended his arm and reached out to grab her arm, pulling her closer to him gently.

    "Abel..." Aries dragged her feet until she was facing the garden by the railings while Abel stood behind her. His arms wrapped around her waist, resting his chin on her shoulder.

    She nced at him before tipping her head against him. "What will I learn from this?" came out humor, thinking he was simply trying to snuggle with her, which she didn''t mind.

    "A lot of things, darling." He smirked, resting his cheek on her shoulder, eyes on her. "I''m teaching you a few tricks now, aren''t I?"

    "I''m learning..." she chuckled before he spun her around slowly until she was facing him. Her rear propped against the railing, holding the quilt in front of her, staring at the devious yet charming smirk stered on his face.

    "A lot..." she added while Abel rested his hands on either side of her. "... of flirting."

    "Haha! Of course, you have to keep up." He bit the bottom of his lip as he drew closer, tilting his head to im her lips.

    "Oh, you." Sheughed with her lips closed, closing her eyes until she felt his lips on hers once again.

    A muffled moan slipped past her lips as their tongues inteced, feeling his hands crawl from her waist up to her spine. Abel kept her lips in between his teeth, opening his eyes as he drew his head back ever so slowly.

    "What?" she asked while catching up to her breathing, leaning her body against him. "Why are you looking at me like that? Is the lesson over?"

    The corner of his lips curled up and drew his head back a bit more. "About to."

    "Huh?" her brows furrowed, studying his devious countenance only for her eyes to go round. He was serious. What he was serious about? She was about to find out.

    "Abel, seriously, what..."

    Her vision suddenly shook, and before she knew it, her body copsed forward and then nothing. Fortunately, Abel was there to catch her.

    He gazed down at his pretty Aries, carrying her unconscious body in his arms with a smile. "Oh, darling. You''re so cute." He then marched back to their room.

    "You should make me your guinea pig since you''ll be sleeping in the same room with another man," came out a ridiculingugh that sounded a hundred times more deadly than usual. "Else... you won''t stand it if you allowed him to have a taste of what''s mine. I''m not lying."

    <strong>***</strong>

    Aries gazed at the needle in between her thumb and index. Still sitting on the bed with her back against the headboard, the corner of her lips curled up into a smirk.

    Abel taught her a lot in bed. The rounds of passion aside, he taught her many tricks which she tried to do while ying under the sheet with him. It was more challenging since the person she was trying to make her guinea pig was aware of what was toe.<sub> </sub>

    But that... helped her hone her skills without the other party noticing.

    ''This needle... I didn''t even know he pricked me at that time.'' бк thinking of the time Abel knocked her unconscious whilst seducing her. It didn''t even hurt, and she only realized it seconds before she lost consciousness.

    ''Of course, I won''t let Joaquin even have a second to realize that,'' she thought, fluttering her eyes before plunging the needle on the side of the mattress, leaving only the tip so it was easy to take it out. As she did, her eyes glinted as she heard heavy footsteps from the outside.

    ''The fish was reeled in.'' Her smirk stretched and then faded.

    Aries took the remaining seconds of being alone picking up the book on the nightstand. Just like how Gertrude had left her hours ago, she kept her back against the headboard, continuing to read where she stopped.

    <strong>creak...</strong>

    Her eyes glinted with malice as the loud creak caressed her ears. But when she turned her head in the door, everything her eyes bore melted without a trace.

    "Joaquin?" she raised her brows, blinking almost innocently while gazing at the man by the door.

    Joaquin paused in his steps while his eyesnded on the bed. "You''re still awake?" he asked, closing the door behind him.

    "Well." Aries forced a smile. "I''m about to sleep. What brings you here? I thought you will be..."

    She trailed off when he came closer to the bed. Her eyes scrutinized him from head to toe, and slowly, her expression turned cold.

    "What?" he inquired after a minute of silence. He arched a brow as he noticed the change in her demeanor.

    Instead of answering him, Aries breathed out and closed the book. While she put the book back on the nightstand, she spoke coldly.

    "Your Highness, I understand that as a man, you cannot resist tasting another dish to satisfy your cravings. However, there is no greater insult that you wille into my bedroom reeking of another woman''s perfume." Her eyes were sharp as she set them back at her husband. "I never, in my life, enjoyed other people''s leftovers."

    "Leftovers?" Joaquin chuckled, studying his fierce wife, who was never afraid of speaking her thoughts aloud. Even if it means pressing other people''s nerves.

    ''She is <strong>just</strong> a woman,'' he stressed in his head.

    "What are you going to do about it, then?" he asked, marching closer to the bed. "You are my wife. Therefore, isn''t it natural for you to fulfill my needs without condition?"

    Joaquin ced his knees on the mattress, crawling towards her until his face was a palm length away from her. Maybe it was the alcohol, he thought, that he didn''t have the patience to indulge with her whims. Or perhaps the thought of wanting her right here and now, knowing she would surely resist him, burned his patience.

    "My wife, it seems tonight will be the night you will have a taste of other people''s leftovers." He sneered, but her unresigned expression remained.

    "Two things, Joaquin. Right now, you are doing two things that I loathed the most. One is youing up to my bed straight from the outside, and second, reeking of another woman." Aries raised her hand and held his cravat, eyes straight into him. "I warned you the first night. You''ll go crazy once I retaliate."

    Taking him by surprise, Aries pulled his cravat and leaned forward. She didn''t resist, just as he expected, but she initiated it. Keeping her eyes open, she smirked against his lips and whispered into his mouth.

    "You won''t be fucking me, husband. I am the one who will screw you over."

 Chapter 166 The Newlyweds First Argument

    Aries had always known she would eventually have to make sacrifices for the greater good. She only needed to know when she would pull out that card at the perfect time.

    Tonight was the night she pulled out that card.

    Turning her head to where Joaquin was sleeping, she spat out of the bed. She wiped her lips in disgust, almost with the intention of wiping her lipspletely. Although she managed to knock him out after pricking him over his hairline from his nape, the disgusting taste of alcohol and cigar filled her mouth.

    Abel was also a person who had bad habits, but she was never this disgusted by the taste. Well, Aries was aware of the reason. Joaquin''s existence already turned her stomach and every physical contact or simply being around him felt like she was standing next to human waste.

    "How upsetting," she muttered, assisting herself up after she painstakingly stripped him off of his clothes. She couldn''t let Joaquin wake up with clothes on. He would suspect it.

    Once she was out of the bed, Aries picked up her shawl draped over the nearby chair and headed to the balcony for some fresh air. She could barely stand Joaquin''s smell, which was mixing in the scent ofvender, resulting in an unpleasant smell.

    "Really..." she whispered, leaning her side against the railing. "I wonder if he was able to vite women tonight. I pity them. It was too early for him to feel the effect of the poison he''d been inhaling."

    Aries was aware that Joaquin get aroused at the thought of women struggling underneath him. She knew this very well since she was in that situation before. However, he also had a soft spot for fierce women.

    Wasn''t that the reason he went crazy over her as well? Aries had two things that Joaquin loved.

    Joaquin was someone who presented himself as a man of valor, just, andpassionate, but inside his gentle and kind front was a rotten man who was sick in the head.

    ''Right now, my ns are going smoothly. The fish already took the bait.'' She rocked her head as a subtle smile dominated her face. "He''s been warned. I''ll show you what madness truly is."

    Her eyes glinted dangerously, knowing for a fact the first phase of her ns passed without a problem. Although she didn''t expect it to be this soon, it changed nothing. Joaquin already stepped foot into her trap and all she needed to do was push him farther and farther until he self-destruct.

    Aries snapped her eyes as she looked back from the balcony, eyes falling on his figure on the bed. ''Time to train my newly adopted dog. I hope he will behave well.''

    *******

    The next dayбн

    Joaquin grunted at the striking pain that struck his head even before he could open his eyes. He ran his fingers through his hair, opening one of his eyes. Just as he did, he caught a figure on the armchair beside the bed. When he cast his eyes in that direction, his brow arched.

    "Good morning," Aries greeted with a distant voice, arms crossed, leg resting over the other.<sub> </sub>

    Seeing her expression, memories ofst night surged inside his head. He grunted as his head throbbed, resting his arm over his eyes as he breathed out.

    "Circe," came out a hoarse voice as he moved his arm a bit to take a peek at her. "Iбн"

    "Sorry?" she tilted her head to the side.

    He sighed deeply before propping his elbow to assist himself to sit up. "I had a lot of drinkst night. I didn''t mean to hurt your feelings."

    Joaquin faced her with a dejected frown. He knew what he didst night, but he was a little out of control. It was not yet the time for him to resort to force.

    "Forgive me, will you?" his voice was filled with sincerity, sighing once again as he reached his hand out to the edge of the bed. "It won''t happen again, I promise."

    "Of course, it won''t happen again." Her expression remained cold and aloof, staring at him straight in the eye. "I don''t let myself go through the same humiliation the second time. Husband, as I''ve said, I am your ally. Even if you have little trust in me now, I am confident we can build it, eventually."

    Aries paused as she nced over her shoulder when a faint knock came from outside the door. She ignored Gertrude as she set her attention back to Joaquin.

    "However, I don''t think I can ever trust or respect someone who doesn''t have the slightest decency to respect me as a person. I may be a woman and the empire might see women''s value less than men, but remember, I am not born and raised in this ce." This time, her voice was unfaltering and solid, determination filling in her eyes. "The Maganti Empire isn''t Haimirich, but the blood in me will always be a Vandran. I don''t condone such impertinence even if it''s you, husband. You would prefer me being your ally than your enemy because I will be the worst you will ever have."

    There was a long silence between them while they held each other''s gazes. Joaquin''s expression remained unreadable.

    "Hahбн" that was all that escaped his mouth as he wrapped his waist with the quilt before flinging his legs out of the bed. He tied both ends to his hip, staring at his fierce wife, who bore a challenging look in her eyes.

    "Come in," he spoke to the chambermaids outside while keeping his eyes on his wife.

    As soon as he uttered his orders, the door creaked open, followed by several maids bringing fresh water for the two to wash their faces. However, the second they stepped foot inside, everyone felt the tension between the crown prince and the crown princess, who were staring at each other in silence.

    ''Bitchбн I''ll soon cut that sharp tongue of yours once I''m done using you to my heart''s content,'' was what came into his head while having a staringpetition with her.

    ''I want to see you try, but you''ll see who will have thestugh,'' were her wicked thoughts.

 Chapter 167 The Sneaking Looks And Smiles Makes Ones Heart Flutter

    Abel, the "love guru," said healthy arguments were the secret to a happy marriage. Absurd as it may sound, but Aries believed the man, even though Abel''s reasoning was the ridiculous ''intense'' make-up sex, which differed from Conan''s professional advice.

    ording to the empire''s genius, arguments that were dealt with properly could be essential to a healthy rtionship. For one, it could create a new depth of intimacy and increase trust between the couple. Hence, Aries didn''t mind her first argument with her husband, the crown prince.

    Having an almost perfect and ideal rtionship wouldn''t deepen her connection with Joaquin. They nned out everything and calcted бк thanks to Conan''s guidance.

    "Are you alright, Your Highness?" Inez''s voice brought Aries back from her train of thoughts, making thetter raise her head at her sister-inw across the table in the pavilion. "Your finger is bleeding."

    The space between Aries''s brows wrinkled as her eyesnded on the flower she was working on. For now, Aries had picked up the habit of arranging flowers, and she thought of inviting Inez.

    "Gertrude." Aries nced at Gertrude standing outside the pavilion, watching thetter enter where she was. "A handkerchief."

    With Inez''s presence, Gertrude kept her mouth in a tight sh as she handed Aries a handkerchief. She would be fussing around Aries if it were just the two of them. When Gertrude saw Aries coldly wave before continuing to wipe her finger, Gertrude lowered her head.

    "Apologies, if my mind is drifting elsewhere when I should amodate you." Aries sported a forced smile, ignoring how Inez stare at Gertrude.

    "It''s alright, Your Highness. Is your finger alright?" asked Inez, keeping her demure.

    "Yes, it''s just a prick. It''s not much, so you do not have to worry about me."

    Inez pursed her lips, studying Aries''s spirit. "Your Highness, if you do not mind, I can lend you an ear if you want to unload that weighs your heart down." She then shed her an understanding smile бк a smile that rarely appeared on Inez''s face, and every time this smile appeared, there was always a hidden agenda.

    Aries opened and closed her mouth, but no words came out. A deep exhale slipped past her lips as she smiled bitterly.

    "I appreciate your kind and genuine offer, ninth sister. However, I do not want to burden you with my worries." Her bitter smile reigned across her face, cing the cloth to the side only to resume cutting the stem of the flowers. "I am already d that you epted yet another hasty invitation of mine."

    Aries cut the white rose''s stem after snipping out the thorns and then slid it in front of Inez. "A token of appreciation," she said with a subtle smile, tilting her head slightly. "For you."

    "I am honored." Unlike the first time she handed her a white rose, Inez reacted properly and with a kind smile, picking up the rose to her nose. As its fresh scent wafted through her nostrils, her lip stretched a little broader, eyes on Aries.

    "It smells wonderful."

    "The gardeners of the Sapphire Pce are very skilled in taking care of the garden." Aries rocked her head, pleased at Inez''s praise. "Back home, we have this greenhouse where my brother and I usually spend an afternoon tea together."<sub> </sub>

    "A greenhouse?"

    Aries nodded, smiling with her lips closed. "We have this little greenhouse back home. It''s like my sanctuary. Flowers soothe my mind and calm my heart. It''s easier to breathe surrounded by beautiful scenery."

    Inez stared at Aries''s expression. Although thetter was trying so hard to look alright, Inez was certain she wasn''t. It could be that Aries was bluffing and trying to get sympathy, but she already decided to y the game Aries was trying to y. It was just a matter of who was the greatest pretender and Inezбн wasn''t someone to back down.

    "Your Highness, I may be stepping out of my bounds once again, but the Lazuli Pce had this greenhouse. I''m certain it is not as beautiful as the one you had back home, butбн I can guarantee you that the flowers in it won''t disappoint." She smiled amicably.

    Aries brows rose as her expression was nk for the first three seconds before her eyes softened. "Can we go now?"

    "Pardon?"

    "To the greenhouse," came out a soft and a little shy voice. "I hadn''t gone out of the Sapphire Pce since I arrived and I thinkбн going out for the first time and the Lazuli Pce as my destination is worth the travel. That is, if it wasn''t an inconvenience for you, of course."

    "Noбн I mean, of course, you''re not an inconvenience." Inez shook her head and chuckled. "If you truly want to visit the Lazuli Pce now, then I am more than happy to tour you in my ce."

    Aries face brightened up with excitement while the sadness in her eyes slowly dissipated. Unnned trips were always been the best! Especially when the crown princess had her first argument with her husband, just days after they tied the knot.

    With that being said, Inez informed everyone Aries woulde to her pce. So a few maids, including Gertrude, Aries''s personal maid, whom she brought to the empire with her, escorted the crown princess.

    *

    The Lazuli pce was quite far from the Sapphire Pce бк a ce in the east and then up north. They still had to ride a carriage, since the imperial pce of the Maganti Empire was just as vast as Haimirich. It was worth the trip, though. Inez''s humble remarks regarding the greenhouse in the said ce truly wouldn''t disappoint.

    "Ninth sisterбн you were too humble. I am astonished at how vast this greenhouse was." Aries faced Inez as a defeated chuckle slipped past her lips, ncing at the water stream perfectly designed that created a path on the concrete floor. The greenhouse was enormous, sheltering not only flowers but there was even a small curve bridge over the man-made pond, a statue, and spots for gatherings to hold.

    Aries peeled her eyes away from Inez as she looked around, marveling at the beauty of such a remarkable ce. "Magnificent. The flowers that also grow were rare."

    "Shall we take a tour?" offered Inez, guaranteeing her with Aries''s raring and unhesitant answer, "yes!"

 Chapter 168 The Subtle Touches

    Aries took a deep breath. Her face cleared up from all the sadness that was clouding her features earlier today. Inez toured her around the greenhouse, and it truly took off some burdens in Aries''s mind. After that, thetter invited her for a cup of tea until it was time for the crown princess to depart.

    "Thank you for fulfilling my whim, ninth sister." On their way towards the entrance of the greenhouse, Aries smiled and turned to her left, where Inez was walking. She was carrying a few flowers that Inez kindly let her have to add to her flower arrangements as a gift.

    Aries''s steps slowly halted, pivoting on her heel to face Inez. Her subtle yet genuine smile was cemented on her face, eyes shimmering with appreciation.

    "Not at all, Your Highness. It is my honor that you grace Lazuli Pce with your presence." Inez smiled amicably as she tipped her head down slightly. When she raised her head, her brows creased seeing that Aries was just staring at her in silence with gentle eyes.

    "Your Highness?" called Inez, brows elevating in puzzlement.

    Aries snapped her eyes and cleared her throat, biting her lips as she gazed down at the flowers she was hugging. Taking out one rare white flower, she handed it to her.

    "For you." She smiled sweetly, staring at Inez straight in the eye. "I know these are your gifts, but I do not have anything right now. You have no idea how this trip helped me and soothed the turmoil in my heart."

    "Your Highnessбн" Inez''s lips were pressed in a hard, thin line, darting her eyes between Aries and the flower in her hand. "Even if it''s mine originally, it''s now yours. It''s always the thought that counts. Thank you."

    In the end, Inez carefully epted the flower, grazing Aries''s finger slightly. For some reason, just a graze of their hands felt different, taking Inez by surprise as she froze for a split second. When she organized her thoughts quickly, she raised her head, only to see Aries''s strange expression.

    It wasn''t the type that bore malice, but more like thetter also felt the strange electricity and the instant spark of tension upon contact.

    "You made me happy," Aries confessed under her breath before locking eyes with Inez. "This trip truly made me happy, ninth sister. I hope this isn''t thest one."

    She paused as her lips curled up into an affectionate smile. "I''ll take my leave now."

    "Take care on your journey, Your Highness." Inez curtsied properly while Aries nodded.

    With that being said, Inez walked her out of the entrance that was only a few meters away, where Aries'' carriage was waiting. Before she opened it, Aries halted once again and cast Inez a look.

    "Your Highness?" asked Inez, frozen while holding shut doors. "Is there something wrong?"

    Aries didn''t respond for several seconds before she shook her head. "It''s nothing. I just thought you''re really beautiful up close." She peeled her eyes away from Inez, raised her hand, and ced it on top of thetter''s hand that was on the door.

    Squeezing it lightly, Aries pushed the doors open. However, as soon as they did, she caught a figure standing outside near the carriage. She nced at him, only to see Joaquin, who had his arms crossed near the carriage.

    When thetter felt the two figuresing out of the greenhouse, he slowly turned his head in their direction. His eyes instantly fell on Aries and Inez''s hands before raising them to meet his wife''s eyes.<sub> </sub>

    Aries looked at him without guilt in her eyes, withdrawing her hand from Inez. Instead of going to Joaquin, Aries faced Inez once again with the same friendly smile.

    "Ninth sister, let''s have tea together soon." Her words snapped Inez back from her daze.

    "Uhбн" Inez cleared her throat and forced a smile, rocking her head, before realizing Joaquin''s presence not far away. She nced at Joaquin, exchanging sharp looks with him in silence. "Take care, Your Highness."

    After stating so, she then faced the crown prince and performed a curtsy. Like usual, Joaquin waved before he advanced in their direction.

    "Sister, I express my gratitude for apanying my wife." He circled an arm around Aries''s waist, pulling her to him mildly so the ninth princess wouldn''t notice. But she did. Meanwhile, Aries simply cast Joaquin a side-eye but kept her silence since she wasn''t scandalous enough to publicize her strained rtionship with her husband.

    "It is my pleasure, Your Highness," said Inez in a kind tone, but her sharp eyes she hid throughout her time with Aries glinted.

    The side of Joaquin''s lips curled up, but it didn''t reach his eyes. "Then we''ll be taking our leave as it is gettingte."

    "I wish you a safe trip."

    "I''ll see you again, ninth sister." Aries smiled before Joaquin assisted her steps, his palm on her back while his other hand holding her arm gently. As they walked away, she couldn''t help but look back at Inez, smiling when their eyes met.

    <strong>******</strong>

    Inez stood in front of the entrance of the greenhouse with the slight bow as the carriage sped away. After several long seconds, she raised her head and her eyes instantly glinted.

    Up until now, she was ying. However, she couldn''t deny that there was a point that she forgot about Aries and believed the person she spent her entire afternoon with shared the same face as that fallen princess.

    The two were just different in everything. From the slightest movements, aura, mannerism, the emotions in their eyes, and their touch. Inez gazed at the hand Aries held and squeezed lightly, her cheek shing in faint red.

    "I hate her," she whispered as her fingers curled, grinding her teeth before raising her eyes at the retreating carriage. "Especially that insufferable crown prince. Tch."

    Hatred once again swam in her eyes before she huffed and marched back to the greenhouse. But as soon as she did, Inez halted by the entrance and looked up and around.

    "Lavender," she whispered, inhaling the faint scent ofvender she left that overwhelmed all other scents from the greenhouse. Her brows lowered as a deep exhale slipped past her lips.

    "I really hate her."

 Chapter 169 Making Up

    Joaquin gazed at Aries from across his spot inside the carriage. He was shaking his foot with his leg draped over the other. She had her attention to the window, holding the flowers on herp, not speaking a word to him.

    It had been two days since theyst spoke, and he hadn''t seen her for thest two days. However, he knew for a fact that even though he was a little miffed at her attitude, he couldn''t prolong this argument between the two of them. They wouldn''t talk anymore, and many of his enemies would surely lure her to their side.

    Aries might bear an ulterior motive if she was the fallen princess of Green, so it was better to keep a close eye on her. Nothing was confirmed yet, so he still had to y along. Surely, Joaquin was someone who would suddenly snap when poked at the wrong time and ce.

    "Still angry?" his calm baritone voice broke the thick silence in the carriage. "Circe."

    Aries breathed out heavily, peeling her eyes away from the window to the man sitting across from her. "What gave you the impression that I am, Your Highness?"

    "How you address me is the giveaway."

    "I am simply being polite."

    "Circe." His face shed solemnity while looking at her straight in the eye, tapping his finger against his thigh simultaneously. "My apologies if my actions and words upset you. Please understand that I am but a wed man. I had lost my control and returned to the life I was used to."

    "I am not making excuses. What I am saying is, it is my fault and I want to take responsibility for it. Will you give me a chance to make up to you?" he continued in the same tone, eyes unfaltering whilst holding hers. Aries nearly apuded him as his expression was truly deceiving, but not as deceiving as hers.

    ''Not making excusesбн that''s what people say when they are making excuses.'' She bit her tongue to stop herself from voicing out her sarcastic thoughts.

    "Fine." She rolled her eyes and reluctantly nodded. "I understand it is hard to change your ways from being a bachelor to a married man. However, please remember, even if it''s hard, I am forced to change my ways and adjust to being a fitting crown princess and your wife away from my homnd and my family."

    "I understand."

    Aries scrutinized him for several seconds before a deep exhale slipped past her lips once again. She still looked reluctant, but it couldn''t be helped. It was hard to stay angry бк even though she had been boiling within.

    "Thank you, Circe." Joaquin leaned forward, extending his arm towards her, smiling gently. "May I hold my wife''s hand now?"

    She huffed as herst protest but still sp his hand, making him grin.

    "I feel like a thorn is plucked out of my heart," he expressed in relief, guiding her hand to his lips. "I''ll be a better husband for you."

    Joaquin kept his eyes on her as he nted a kiss on the back of her hand, hiding the contempt perfectly. Meanwhile, Aries tried to keep her fierce facade and slowly rxed her tensed shoulders, knowing he was watching her reaction. Being the prideful Danie, she had to y a little hard to get for a bit and let him watch her take off her intimidating mask for a better effect.

    "I hope that is thest time you''ll break my heart," she announced, seeing him nod.

    "I never intend to break your heart."

    They held each other''s gazes, studying the slight relief in their eyes. However, in contrast with the emotions in their eyes, the atmosphere around them thickened instead. Yet neither of them pointed it out, knowing both of them bore hidden agenda in making up.<sub> </sub>

    After the two finally reconciled and put the issue in the past where it belongs, silence descended on the carriage again. Joaquin watched her fix the flowers on herp, quirking a brow when he noticed the slight smile that appeared on her face while staring at them.

    "Do you like flowers that much?" he asked, causing for her to lift her gaze at him.

    "Yes." She smiled peacefully, caressing the petals with her fingertips. "I mentioned to the ninth princess about our greenhouse back home, so she told me about the greenhouse in Lazuli Pce and invited me over."

    Joaquin scrutinized her with narrowed eyes and then let out a hum. "Be careful."

    "Pardon?"

    "To the people who are approaching you," he rified while she furrowed her brows. "I know you are smart, but everyone in the pce had their own agenda. You already noticed my rtionship with my siblings. Not just the princes, but some of the princesses were just as ambitious as them. Don''t fall for Inez''s antics.; she isn''t as beautiful as her shell."

    Aries blinked twice, almost looking innocent as she processed his words carefully. "Are you worried they might use me against you?"

    "You are my wife and the crown princess, after all. They aren''t the people who will get intimidated by just the title you hold."

    "Joaquin, do you still underestimate me until now?" she asked out of in curiosity, tilting my head to the side. "I think I can read people and know if they hold malicious intention towards me. Trust me. The ninth princess isn''t like that."

    "I''m simply reminding my wife, but I''m certain she wouldn''t fall into schemes easily."

    "Of course. I have you." His brows rose when she humored yfully. "You will be watching my back. I''m certain my beautiful and reliable husband will keep me away from danger even before it approaches me."

    He smirked and chuckled, lip-closed. "You do not have to speak so much ttery in one sentence to get your point across."

    His reply caused her tough as well. Aries then showed him one particr flower and handed it to him.

    "This flower smells good. What do you think?" she inquired with her brows raised. Joaquin nced at it and even from the distance, he could smell its permeating scent.

    "Not as lovely as your perfume." He raised his eyes at her, watching her purse her lips while withdrawing her hand.

    "Don''t make my heart flutter so suddenly," she muttered while looking away.

    He smiled subtly, finding her adorable whenever she denied things that reaches her heart. "But I am speaking the truth."

    Aries sneered internally. His answer was enough for her to calcte how hooked Joaquin was with her scent. It wouldn''t be long before the effects settled deep into his bones.

 Chapter 170 How Many Years Has It Been?

    Meanwhile, in the imperial pce of Haimirichбн

    "How many years has it been?" Abel inquired whilst hanging his head low. His voice was low and weak as if he was barely alive or sane.

    "How many years has it been when Aries left Haimirich?"

    ''So dramatic as ever.'' Conan mentally clicked his tongue, standing by the door of a particr bathing area inside the forbidden mansion in the pce. He cleared his throat, putting his fist in front of his lips, ignoring the usual sight of blood and bodies inside the same bathtub full of blood where Abel was dipped into.

    "Your Majesty, it''s only been days since you returned to the empire."

    "How many thousand days exactly?" Abel slowly raised his head, staring at Conan through his damped hair dangling down in front of his eyes. "Three thousand days?"

    "Your Majesty, please don''t tell me you''re nning to go to the Maganti Empire again? Hadn''t you heard the rumors going around the neighboring kingdom about a gigantic bat people sighted?" Conan frowned, having this strong gut feeling where this situation would lead once again. "Although we managed to control these rumors from developing by spreading information about the effect of this addicting drug, there were still those who were watching the sky, waiting for you to appear."

    "Five thousand days? Or was it ten?" Instead of listening to Conan, Abel gazed down at his palms, which were covered with blood, counting how long it felt since he was with Aries. He knew it was just days, but the numbers he was spewing were what it feels since he parted with Aries.

    "Ten thousand?"

    "Your Majesty!" Conan bellowed while grinding his teeth, clicking his tongue in annoyance. "Fine! Let''s just go to the Maganti Empire and see Lady Aries! My god! I''ll burn this empire!"

    Abel stopped as he slowly raised his head once again, setting his eyes at Conan while thetter threw a huge fit. He blinked his eyes, ignoring everything that wasing out of Conan''s mouth, and just stared at how thetter''s lips moved.

    "Lance." His voice came out only above a whisper.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    Conan''s eyes dted as a hand suddenly covered his mouth from behind. He didn''t even realize what was happening as the door behind him suddenly flew open, and before he knew it, Isaiah was already standing behind him whilst covering his mouth.

    "Your Majesty, get a hold of yourself." Isaiah''s eyes grew icy, ignoring the sh that resurfaced on the back of his ripped gloves and the blood that oozed from it. "This is Conan, one of your own."

    Abel blinked his eyes ever so tenderly before his mouth fell open. "Ahhбн it''s Conan? Why would you want to burn me, Conan?"

    Upon hearing Abel''s question, Isaiah heaved a sigh of relief before he released Conan from under his grip. He nced at Conan, catching his eyes that went round as he realized what had just happened. If Isaiah was a secondte, not only Conan''s tongue was cut but also half of his head.

    "Your Majesty, did you just try to kill me?!" Conan gasped in disbelief.

    "You said you want to burn me."

    "No!" the poor Conan''splexion turned pale as his widened eyes barely blinked. "I said this empire! I don''t care about it anymore! I am so done with the mountain of paperwork if you''ll destroy it, anyway!"

    "Ahбн why would you do that to the empire? What would be our people''s future if you do that?" Abel frowned, causing Conan''s face to contortpletely, rendering thetter speechless. "You should''ve told me you dislike your position. I would''ve given you a different role. Maybe my son would please you."

    "бн" At this point, Conan could only look at Isaiah in disbelief.

    Abel literally snapped! Just now, he was going crazy about counting how many thousand days had it been since hest saw Aries, but now, he was speaking as if he was some sort of sage king.

    Isaiah let out a deep exhale before setting his eyes back to Abel. "Your Majesty, your name is Eustass Silvestri Abel Bloodworth, the 56th emperor of Haimirich." He reminded the emperor, knowing Abel was currently having an identity crisis due to his distress in his insatiable hunger and Aries''s absence wasn''t helping.<sub> </sub>

    Until now, they couldn''t understand why Abel even proposed Aries''s return to Maganti Empire if he was going crazy about it.

    "56thбн?" Abel furrowed his brows before he rocked his head in understanding.

    There was a moment of silence as Abel closed his eyes and drew a breath. When he breathed out, he ran his fingers through his hair, brushing it back, revealing his abnormal left eye that had ck sclera matched with his natural crimson pupils.

    Unlike his desperate and pitiful countenance, his expression returned to his usual arrogance. He licked the lingering blood on his lips, smiling at Conan until his eyes were mere slits.

    "Sorry about that, Conan." Heughed while raising his hand. "I didn''t mean to harm you. It''s a misunderstanding."

    His sudden shift of mood caused Conan''s nose to re up. This time, he raised his sleeves as he advanced towards the man in the tub, only to get stopped by Isaiah, who simply ced a hand on Conan''s shoulder.

    "Stop stepping on my shadow. I''ll really burn him this time!" Conan red at Isaiah, as he couldn''t move a muscle.

    "You should calm down too."

    "My, my. Conan, you should get yourself together! I know you miss my darling, but that is not the right thing to do!" Abelughed yfully, warranting him a roar from the vexed Conan, whose eyes were slowly seeing just red.

    The emperor was just too shameless! How could he speak as if Conan was the one who was insane here?! Well, Conan was about to lose it as well if he kept hanging around Abel. It was already an achievement hested sane this long.

    Isaiah remained silent as Abel''s waves ofughter and Conan''s barking bounced across each corner of this room. When he let out a shallow breath, his lips parted.

    "Didn''t you say you will make a short trip to the Maganti Empire?" asked Isaiah, putting a halt to Abel''sughter and Conan''s barking. His expression was still unreadable, but the shallow sigh that slipped past his lips and the disinterest in his eyes told anyone with eyes he felt like he was the only adult trying to make two kids happy.

    "I need to make a stop in the Maganti to meet with Morro. You can tagбн"

    "Let''s go!" Abel nted his palm on the rims of the tub and pushed himself up, revealing his und body covered with nothing but red.

    "Kyah!" Conan squealed like a pig being ughtered, shutting his eyes almost instantly.

    "Oh,e on, Conan." Abel nted his hand on his hips, facing the two confidently butt-naked. "You don''t have to be shy. You share the same genitalia as mine! Or are you perhaps a girl all this time? Can I see just in case?"

    "Ughh!!"

    "You''re so emotional, Conan." Abel shook his head, seeing that Conan was confused about whether to cover his eyes or ears. "Anyway, this is not my idea. I''m visiting Aries because Isaiah is forcing me and needs my brilliant mind!"

    He then pointed a finger at Conan. "Don''t you berate me about being too irresponsible!"

    The side of Abel''s lips stretched from ear to ear,pletely forgetting his woes minutes ago at the thought of meeting Aries once again. As Abel continued to tease Conan, Isaiah studied the emperor in silence and was certain of one thing.

    Aries needed to be safe at all times. Even if they nned meticulously before she left the empire, ording to his informant, something was brewing in the Maganti Empire. If it was as simple as human matters, he wouldn''t concern himself with it.

    However, with the coven, the council''s strange silence, and Abel''sck of interest in the vampire matters despite having a vague idea of what was going on in the shadows, it rmed Isaiah in a way it left this restlessness in his heart. It was better to be safe than sorry, and his priority was Aries''s life.

    ''If she diesбн'' Isaiah nced at the Conan who was breathing invisible fire and then at Abel who wasughing evilly. ''бн that will be hisst straw. He will never regain control once again.''

 Chapter 171 Choosing Her Lady-In-Waiting

    "Yes?"

    Aries raised her head and paused in cutting the rose stem in the pavilion of the Sapphire Pce, her usual spot to kill time since she had nothing else to do. She watched Joaquin advance in her direction, perching on the chair across from her with a document in his hand.

    "This is rare. You never see me during the day," she expressed, a bit surprised as she gazed at the man with genuine wonder in her eyes.

    He tipped his head to the side, shrugging. "Am I, perhaps, bothering my wife?"

    "Depends on the reason for your visit."

    "Is missing you a valid reason?"

    She bit her lip, suppressing her lips from curling up. "Well, the weather feels nice today, and it uplifts my spirit. You passed, barely." She narrowed her eyes while heughed, watching him shake his head.

    "So, what''s the real reason behind the visit?" she asked when he recovered, knowing Joaquin wouldn''t bother seeing her in the day as his role as a husband was only during the night. He should''ve called himself a male escort since being a husband was simply ying under the sheet for him.

    "Well, since you will soon get your hands on your official duties as the crown princess, I prepared you a list of candidates for yourdy-in-waiting." Joaquin raised the document in his hand, cing it in front of her, and then beckoned her to check it.

    "You could''ve sent someone else to deliver this." Her brow arched as she slowly reached for the documents, keeping her eyes on him.

    "I''m keeping my word of bing a better husband," he argued in a knowing tone. "Is there something wrong with that?"

    "Hmmбн nothing. I''m just surprised, that''s all." Aries checked the profile of remarkable nobledies in the empirepiled inside.

    Each and everyone had remarkable merits, making Aries nod as all their achievements and even their portraits were in their profiles. However, no matter how pleasant andmendable that was written in it, all these people were Joaquin''s people. He was putting all his pawns around her, and that was for sure.

    "They''re amazingdies in the empire indeed," she praised while Joaquin studied her in silence, arms crossed. His eyes narrowed as he nced at the page she was reading before raising his eyes once again.

    Meanwhile, Aries kept her breathing calm as she reached a page where a familiar face was drawn in it. Fortunately, she experienced enough jump scare and intense training during forey with Abel that she kept a stoic face.

    ''I wonder what he''ll say if I chose this woman?'' she wondered, flipping the next page as she didn''t give this one even an extra second. ''Is he expecting me to lose it just because he let me see a traitor''s face?''

    Aries remained silent, throwing praises here and there until she reached thest page. When she did, she raised her head and sported her usual smile at him.

    "Did you find anyone to your liking?" he asked with interest.

    "They''re all amazingdies, and I will be lying if I say it''s easy to pick. Will you rmend me one?" she returned, tilting her head to the side. "If you are in here, trying to be a better husband, I would like to hear my husband''s opinion before I make a decision."<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin rocked his head as he leaned forward, resting his arm against the edge of the round marble table. While he hummed, Aries handed over the documents so he could pick his candidate for her. He took it and picked four pages,ying them over the table, their faces facing Aries.

    "In terms of status and social reputation, this one will help you in high societyбн" Joaquin pointed at the first document while speaking their strong points. Aries listened, nodding in understanding as everything that wasing out of his mouth were things that weren''t written.

    "And thisбн" he paused as he raised his eyes, holding her gaze. "Although Countess Lloyd came from anothernd and married the Earl of Carballo, she doesn''tck or is less than those others who were born and raised in the empire. Personally, I think Countess Lloyd will be a good choice since she used to be an alien. She will be a huge help since she will understand your situation and has built many connections."

    "Countess Lloyd, huh?" Aries rocked her head as she picked up the document Joaquin suggested. She looked at it and skimmed the written merits under her name, smacking her lips right after as she faced Joaquin.

    "Then I''ll listen to your suggestion." She smiled kindly, cing the document on top of the table. "I truly appreciate your input, Your Highness."

    Joaquin didn''t respond for a second and just stared at her until she spoke.

    "She isn''t your mistress, is she?" she asked bluntly, throwing him off his concentration. "Please do let me know if you had a past together. I will not get upset with you. I promise."

    Heughed weakly. "No. All the lists of candidates are clean. I respect their husbands."

    "That''s reassuring to hear, then." She nodded, pleased that she didn''t have to worry about a snake that would fawn around her husband. "Then, if we don''t have a problem with Countess Lloyd, we''ll go with her. It''s an advantage that she can assist me in adjusting faster. Actually, I think doing my official duties will be a good distraction for me since it''s lonely to stay in the garden all day long."

    "But the rest is what you need." His eyshes fluttered every so tenderly and in a mindful tone he said, "once you started doing your official duties, times like this will be rare."

    "That is why I am notining, but at the same time, I am someone who enjoys doing productive things. Arranging the vases had been therapeutic, but it''s better to prepare myself for the state matters before sitting behind the desk instantly."

    "Well, make sense." Joaquin rocked his head, being rational like always, as he pondered on what benefit he could get. He nced at her once again and offered with a smile;

    "How about you visit me tomorrow in the emperor''s pce? If I remember correctly, you hadn''t had a proper tour around there since our wedding. It''s good if you get yourself familiar with your workce beforehand."

    She smiled in satisfaction. "That''s a great idea, Your Highness."

    "Then I''ll see you tomorrow?" he raised his brows. "I''ll be sending a personal invitation to the countess, so you do not need to worry about it."

    Aries pressed her lips and huffed, leaning forward while fluttering her eyshes coquettishly. "I''m close to thinking you truly meant it when you say you want to be a better husband."

    "Because I am sincere, Circe." He winked, inducing waves ofughter from her. "My words had always been my bond, and I do not want to disappoint my wife again."

    The two exchanged tteries and spent an afternoon tea together. Little did Aries know, while she was busy indulging with him just so he could get a whiff of her scent, the people in Haimirich were in chaos бк almost in total shambles.

 Chapter 172 Can Be Bribed By Treats

    <strong>[Haimirich Empire: the emperor''s office]</strong>

    "Conan!"

    Abel tapped his fingers against the surface of his desk impatiently, watching the door fly open. But instead of Conan, it was Isaiah, who was by the door, strutting his way in as if he owned the ce.

    "Where is Conan??" asked the impatient Abel, frowning at seeing how calm Isaiah was. Thetter perched on the settee leisurely, shooting Abel a casual look.

    "He said he is busy. He molded a cork to fit his ears to deafen himself."

    "Hahбн is he stalling time? Howpetitive!" Abel scoffed in dismay, ncing at the door when an old schr of the empire knocked and opened it.

    The middle-aged man, Conan''s proxy, entered. He was carrying a thin stack of documents, which was very unlike the usual amount of paperwork that would enter and leave the emperor''s office every day.

    "Your Majesty!" called the official and then gulped, fixing his posture as he bowed and went inside. "This isбн"

    "Come." Abel closed his eyes as he took a deep breath, crooking a finger, causing the old man to stiffen. "I don''t need your formalities. Come and hand all of those to me. Waste another second of my time and I''ll take the rest of your life."

    The schr walked like a wind-up toy and ced the documents in a hurry, jolting back when Abel impatiently snatched them away. His heart was too old for this as the emperor and his legal adviser, Conan, were too hyped in finishing all important and minor matters as if the world was ending tomorrow.

    "I бк I''ll take my leave," came out a muffled and awkward voice only to be ignored by the emperor. He nced at Isaiah, who didn''t even pay him one nce while reading a book in silence.

    "Alrightбн" the schr tiptoed his way out, barely making a sound while he was unconsciously holding his breath.

    Once the schr was out of the emperor''s office, he finally breathed out and in heavily, as if to catch up to his breathing. He looked back at the door once again, patting his racing heart.

    "Just what is going on?" he muttered, dragging his feet away to the railings. When he gazed down on the ground floor of the emperor''s pce, the schr felt even more exhausted with a mix of relief at the sight of the people below that looked like a colony of ants, moving in each direction.

    "At the very least, I am not the only one who were running errands since morning."

    Currently, the traffic in the emperor''s pce was something that had never happened before. It was hectic and one had to catch up to their breathing just so they could breathe. Yet, no one knew the reason Conan and Abel were going crazy!

    If they worked hard, shouldn''t they keep it to themselves? But who would have the nerve to ask that question?

    ''I envy Lord Isaiahбн somehow,'' the schr thought before dragging his feet to run another errand Conan asked him to do.

    <strong>******</strong>

    Back in the emperor''s office, Isaiah nced at the door as soon as he heard the faint click. He then shifted his eyes at Abel, who seemed to have been devoured by an invisible me as he was surely working hard than he ever did in the past hundreds of years.<sub> </sub>

    Although Isaiah suggested he would have to go to the Maganti Empire himself, he wasn''t in a rush. Even though Abel''s care for Haimirich dwindled, Isaiah didn''t wish for all of them to start over. It was too much work. So, he made an excuse that he would need a few days to set up some dolls so no one would notice their absence.

    Because of that, Conan and Abel ended up killing time by working hard. It wasn''t Isaiah''s intention. He just thought they would only work on the important affairs, but the mountains of paperwork they keptining about all day and out continuously thinned out.

    It was a miracle.

    "Not a breath," Abel spoke just as Isaiah''s lips parted, not even bothering to look at him. "Unless it''s about my darling, then sing."

    Isaiah blinked twice before he shoved his hand inside his suit pocket. One of the things he learned from Aries was that treats were effective on the emperor. Taking out a pebble, Isaiah tossed it to the emperor''s desk, whichnded perfectly near Abel''s free hand.

    "It was the pebble Lady Aries kickedбн" he said, watching Abel pause as he gazed at the pebble. "бн with passion."

    "You collect her things too?" the emperor''s brows furrowed as he frowned, picking up the pebble. "Tell me now so I can announce everyone to wear their ck attires tomorrow."

    "I thought it wille in handy in the future."

    "Hah!" Abel looked at Isaiah with awe, holding the pebble in between his thumb and index, squinting his eyes as he appraised it like a piece of jewelry. "So, what do you need me for you to resort to such means?"

    "This humble subject has a request to make before we set off to the Maganti Empire."

    "Spare me the suspense, Isaiah." He bats his eyeszily, setting them at Isaiah. "Every second counts. My darling will surely worry about the empire. I do not want to upset her during our grand reunion. Haimirich is not something I would like to discuss with her."

    Isaiah pressed his lips into a hard line while scrutinizing Abel. So far, Abel had been sane ever since the thought of meeting Aries came to his mind.

    "I would like to take someone on this trip." He announced in his same almost toneless voice.

    "Oh?"

    "Haimirich will be left with no one to look after it. But, since this trip is inevitable, it is also better if there was also no one vying for it."

    Abel''s lips curved downturn while rocking his head, ying with the pebble in his hand. "Well, I don''t care if you bring your army to march to that wretched ce. Do what you see fit as long as it doesn''t interrupt my time with my darling."

    "Thank you, Your Majesty." Isaiah tilted his head down before setting his eyes back at Abel, only to see thetter smiling while looking at the pebble.

    "My collection is growing. I will soon need a bigger room." Abel chuckled happily before snapping his eyes at his right-hand man. "Tell Conan to prepare a ring, a bouquet, and a basket of potato. I can''t meet her empty-handed."

 Chapter 173 They Should Try Better

    As promised, Aries prepared for the day to enter the inner pce where the magic in the empire happened. This was not the first time she stepped foot in this ce. But unlike in the past where she had to stay inside an empty room for Joaquin to use her to de-stress, she was now being toured by Joaquin''s aide, Hernan.

    Still, Aries eagerly looked around while Hernan showed her different departments and offices. Something that the crown princess would need to know. This should be an activity for her first day, but since she was already here, it was better for her to familiarize herself with the ce beforehand.

    "His Highness is still in a meeting. You may wait in here." Hernan faced Aries as they reached the door of the sitting room, where she could wait at her own convenience. "He told me he will see you once he was done."

    "I see. Thank you." Aries sported a smile, not a bit appalled how Hernan kept a stoic face while staring at this familiar face. The man was smart and always kept level-headed since Joaquin had tendencies of snapping.

    The man pressed his lips and offered a polite smile, opening the door for her. Hernan entered the room after her, standing by the door as she headed to the settee inside the luxurious sitting-room for the royals.

    "I will call someone to bring you some tea while you wait, Your Highness." He beckoned a slight bow while Aries plopped her butt down on the settee.

    "I will appreciate that."

    "Very well. I will now take my leave."

    Hernan silently walked away while Aries watched him close the door from behind him. The side of her lips curled up upon the sound of the soft click, peeling her eyes away from the door around the room.

    ''Is he testing me? Still suspicious? I can''t me him, though,'' she mentally nodded, leaning back with her arm propped over the armrest. ''Well, between Joaquin and Hernan, thetter is even sharper. Although I''m not saying Joaquin is stupid, his anger issues deter his judgments sometimes.''

    This room was very familiar to Aries. It was, indeed, a room for the royals. However, it was only used for the crown prince''s guests. This was her room back then. A room where she was tied, sitting, and waiting for him to do all sorts of atrocities during her first several months.

    That was the time when things were still just bad before it slowly escted to worse. She didn''t have a second of good memory in this ce, and she knew the reason they made her wait in here was to see if this ce could bring back her trauma.

    She sneered. ''How did they think it will bring back my trauma when this entire empire is a hell for me?''

    Did they think letting her in a ce such as this room where she was vited or abused would tear down her facade? Howughable.

    "They should try better," she whispered, ncing at the door when a knock reached her ears. Her voice as she responded barely had energy, but the maid entered while pushing a trolley inside.

    Aries kept her aloof expression, watching the maid serve her the tea. The second she got a whiff of the aroma permeating from the tea, she quirked a brow. Yet, she said nothing until the servant ced the teacup over the saucer within her reach.<sub> </sub>

    While the servant ced the sweets so Aries could enjoy the tea to its finest, thetter reached for the tea and sip on it. She didn''t need to study the servant to know that she was observing Aries.

    "Please call for me if you need anything, Your Highness," said the servant, taking a step back and then bowed politely.

    "Go." Aries waved as she continued to sip the tea, enjoying the taste of it.

    The servant nced over her shoulder when she was by the door, seeing Aries lick her lips as she put down the teacup, only to have a taste of the sweet. Confirming Aries was unsuspecting, the servant left the room since her job was already finished.

    When the servant left her, Aries pursed her lips to suppress herughter. She shook her head, her eyes glossing over the tea and the little nice hors d''oeuvres prepared for her, the crown princess.

    "Goodness," she whispered as she forked out a small portion of the cake and ate it with ease. "I told them they should try better."

    Apparently, the tea and the sweets were poisoned. Even though the scent was hidden by the fragrance of the tea and the ingredients of the sweets, Aries had grown inclined in the art of poison that she could instantly tell these were all poisoned right off the bat.

    ''It wasn''t the type that will kill me,'' she thought as she enjoyed the treats since she was actually hungry. ''Just some honesty pill бк pfft!''

    That was cute.

    If Aries couldugh out loud, she would''ve done it already. But she still had to be careful. The walls were thin, and who knew who was listening? Either way, she was hungry, that was for sure. And for some obvious reason, she appreciated the faint mix of the poison.

    For someone who had drunk poison every single day in Haimirich and turned herself into a guinea pig practicing her skills in poison, it had a special ce in her heart and taste buds. Fortunately, it didn''t ruin her sense of tastepletely.

    ''Just the familiarity, perhaps,'' Aries rocked her head, gazing at the window. Her brow arched when she caught a figure walking into the garden, blinking as she pondered about what to do.

    ''Hmmбн wellбн'' Aries then nced at the sweets and the tea, chewing slowly like a cow. ''It''s a good thing to have a walk in the garden after having a snack.''

    Her eyes glinted as she gobbled up her food, using this as an excuse to take a stroll in the garden since a walk was good after a meal. It was better to make the most out of this trip, after all.

 Chapter 174 Different People, Different Approach.

    Aries was questioned by the guards when she departed the sitting room, but who would stop the crown princess? She just wanted to take a stroll in the garden, so no one could stop her with that excuse. It could cost them their lives, after all.

    ''How amusing.'' She took a deep breath, standing in the middle of the garden with her eyes closed. ''No matter how deep I draw a breath, I feel a little breathless.''

    She opened her eyes ever so slowly, smiling beautifully, as if her mind was filled with flowers and goodness. With her hands inteced behind her, she trod carefully in the gravel path, looking around at the flowers around. The garden in the inner pce was twice asrge as the one in the Sapphire Pce.

    ''It''s a good ce to meet people in secret.'' Aries looked around discreetly before walking past an arc leisurely. She knew she would meet someone in here. Although she didn''t intend to go deeper into the garden, she knew if she walked further along this path, it would lead her to a small pavilion and abundant flowers.

    Until now, she didn''t understand the purpose of keeping all those flowers deep in the garden. But well, it was probably because it was a good excuse: to admire the flowers in a ce away from the people''s scope.

    Soon, Aries smiled when she sighted a shade when the flowers on either side of the path grew abundant. Her eyes softened, treading carefully, looking around at the mini mand garden that was within the huge mand garden pattern of the inner pce.

    There was a small fountain in the middle of the circle, a small pavilion on the side, and a few benches. It was a perfect ce for a stroll or to enjoy an afternoon tea, but obviously, it wasn''t used for its purpose. The people in the inner pce were too busy to stop and take a deep breath and appreciate the little things around them.

    "Sister?" Just as Aries entered the circle, she heard a cocky voice of a man from the east, making her raise her head at him. "Well, what a good day to see you out here, Crown Princess. Greetings."

    She smiled.

    Ismael Imperial, the third prince, second in line to the throne, and Joaquin''s strongest opponent. Traditionally, if something happened to Joaquin and he didn''t have an heir, Ismael had a right to im the throne. It was aplicated matter which Aries didn''t care about because there was no need to involve herself in the battle between a stool.

    Not anymore. Never again.

    She would rather watch on the sidelines while they fight for something, even if they sell their souls to the devil. That was if their soul still had value.

    "Greeting." Aries didn''t curtsy, knowing she was in a position she didn''t have to. Still, she tilted her head down slightly, keeping her chin up, looking at him eye to eye.

    "It is good to see you here, Your Highness," she expressed with a kind smile, tilting her head when Ismael tilted his head slightly. "Is there something wrong, Your Highness? Staring for too long can be considered rude."

    "Apologies. It''s justбн you really look like someone."

    "Look like someoneбн" Aries crooned as she rocked her head mildly. "I''ve been hearing that, even at my wedding. I must admit, although it irks me, I am also curious just how much I resemble a mere ve?"

    She fluttered her eyshes, raising her brows while gazing at Ismael. Thetter shrugged as he walked closer until he was at arm''s length.

    "May I?" he smiled amicably, making her brows raise even more when he bent over with his hands on his hips. Aries furrowed her brows, leaning back slightly while he bobbed his face to inspect her.

    "Hmmm... just a bit," he said and grinned, drawing back slightly. "Up close, you''re more beautiful and smell very attractive."

    "I appreciate the ttery, but my husband might not." She tipped her head, arching a brow while smirking yfully.

    p Ismaelughed while shrugging, peeling his eyes away from her. Maybe it was because he saw Aries back then when she was already in an awful shape, that was why he thought they didn''t look that much alike up close. But then again, he didn''t care if she was the same person or not. His enemy''s enemy was his friend.</anda>

    "So, may I know why the crown princess is alone in the garden?" he asked, casting her a quick look.<sub> </sub>

    "I thought the garden was beautiful." Aries offered him a quick side-eye. "I''m the type who doesn''t enjoy admiring something from afar. I''d rather go to it and see why it looked so good from a distance."

    He smiled and quirk a brow in amusement. "Well, that''s interesting. Would you mind if I keep youpany for a while?"

    "Hmmбн" Aries looked around before she took a little step forward. When she took three steps, she nced back at him. "Suit yourself."

    "The crown prince is one lucky man," he murmured, looking at the peerless beauty walking ahead of him. He smacked his lips and smiled, following Aries until he was walking side by side with her.

    When they reach the small pavilion, Ismael jogged and dragged a chair for her.

    "I''m a gentleman and I''m trying to earn points to be on your good side." He winked, smiling charmingly at her, which made her chuckle.

    "I wonder how manydies had fallen for such a charming prince?" she humored as she sat down while he stood behind the chair. Ismael slightly wrinkled his brows when he got a whiff of her perfume.

    What a uniquely pleasant scent, he thought, but didn''t think much about it as he walk over to the chair across from the small round table.

    "Not much is the answer to that question." Ismael kept his grin as he leaned back leisurely. "I am not as charming as the crown prince, after all."

    "Huhбн" Aries rocked her head and scrutinized his face without hiding it from him. "You''re right."

    "Ouch."

    Sheughed when he dramatically nted his palm across his chest. "I''m jesting."

    "Crown princess, the damage had already been done. Will you take responsibility for my wounded heart?"

    "I am the crown prince''s wife. The only heart I am ought to take responsibility for is the crown prince''s."

    "If I am the crown prince, will you take responsibility of mine then?" he quirked a brow, but Aries''s expression slightly changed.

    "Your Highness, careful," Aries warned while bearing a subtle smile. "There''s no telling that I am not your enemy. What you''re saying might put you in trouble."

    Ismael leaned forward, his arm propped against the edge of the table. "That''s scary, but I have a keen nose, you know?" he poked the right side of his nose and smirked.

    "I can smell the people who have the same enemy as I do. You may or may not be the ve everyone is talking about, but I don''t really care." His lips stretched wider as he propped his jaw with the bottom of his fist, eyes on her. "If things get hard on your side, you can alwayse to me. Don''t worry, I am quite different from what I look."

    "It''s just so happened that I was born with a little less luck and a yearter," he added in the same knowing tone, winking at her. "I think we''ll get along well, sister."

    Thisбн was the reason Aries went to this ce. She wanted to meet Ismael, not to seduce him, but toбн leave an impression on each other. Different people, different approaches, and Aries was certain she left the correct impression on this poor third prince.

 Chapter 175 [Bonus Chapter]Thank You For Another 50 GT!

    "So, you also like gardens?" Aries inquired as she peeled her eyes away from the garden to Ismael, who stayed sitting across from her in the pavilion. Ismael was leaning back leisurely, eyes on the flowers, oddly been silent.

    "Not quite." He cast her an indifferent side-eye. "There are plenty of other things to look at бк prettier ones at that."

    Her lips parted, but she ended up pursing her lips and peeled her eyes away from him to the flowers nearby. She kept quiet, sensing his gaze on her side, which she ignored.

    "Done ying with me?" he broke the silence after another minute of silence.

    Aries smiled, closed lips. "I''m married." She nced at him.

    Ismaelughed as that sounded random. However, he also knew it wasn''t random. He had been charming her, but they clicked one way or another. Not that everything could be associated with interest for a man to a woman, but more likeбн she was his brother''s wife and everything Joaquin had, Ismael, vowed to take all of them.

    "I didn''t say you weren''t." He shrugged, leaning forward to prop his arm against the edge of the table. "Your Highness, the crown princess, I admit you''re quite the catch, but I am not as foolish as to cross the line."

    He wasn''t even concealing it, she thought, chuckling at his satirical sense of humor.

    Aries faced him and tilted her head slightly, fluttering her eyshes. Among the Imperials, there were two individuals who weren''t on Aries''s hit list. Ismael wasn''t one of them, but he could be a good chess piece. After all, unlike others, Ismael didn''t directly touch her or did anything to her.

    If anything, Aries could still remember the time when this guy seemed to have helped her by throwing a huge tantrum. Either way, he wasn''t safe either. If he was smart enough, he might survive.

    Ismael posed a threat to Joaquin, and thetter was aware of that. The only reason those two hadn''t killed each other was that they would be each other''s primary suspects. They could get away from the trial, but they were actually individuals who were very concerned about their public image.

    "Is there something wrong with my face, Your Highness?" he smirked, watching her snap her eyes after staring for too long.

    "Nothing, third prince." Her lips stretched, but it didn''t reach her eyes. "I just thought if my husband catches us, he might get the wrong idea."

    "How devoted."

    "What can I say? You''re my husband''s strongest opponent. If something happened to him, I can only expect for the worse."

    Ismael rocked his head before he leaned forward once again. "I don''t touch the innocent." He waggled his brows before nting his palm on the surface of the table, pushing himself up while Aries looked up at him.

    "Your Highness, my doors are always open when things get too much on your end. Don''t worry. I''m simply trying to be a good brother-inw," he added. "I will have to leave you first since yourpany is already here."

    He then walked back and beckoned a neck bow while Aries remained seated. She nced at the entrance she came from, seeing Joaquin enter the scene only to stop at the sight of Ismael and Aries together.

    "I enjoyed yourpany." She nodded.

    "It''s my honor, Your Highness," Ismael smirked as he turned around. The second he did, his lips stretched even broader, arching a brow when he locked eyes with Joaquin from a distance. Tilting his head down slightly, Ismael strutted towards the other exit while humming a tune in high spirit, knowing this meeting would eat the crown prince''s mind.<sub> </sub>

    This could harm Aries knowing the crown prince''s temper, but that would be his advantage anyway. The crown princess on the third prince''s side didn''t sound so bad, after all.

    Aries kept her attention on Ismael''s back while aware of her approaching husband from her peripheral vision.

    "That''s a surprise." She snapped her eyes when Joaquin perched on the seat where Ismael sat on. "I didn''t think I''d see you with the third prince when I was told you wanted to take a stroll after snacks."

    "I didn''t think I''d see the third prince as well." She smiled, showing zero hints that her meeting with Ismael was something worthy of Joaquin''s attention. As if nothing happened and she didn''t see the curiosity in her husband''s eyes, Aries shifted her attention to the flowers surrounding the small pavilion.

    Joaquin rested his leg over the other, blinking every so slowly while studying her side profile. "Stay away from him. The third prince is cunning and ambitious."

    "Is that so?"

    "You don''t believe me?" he arched a brow, detecting the disinterest in her voice.

    "Of course, I believe you." Aries set her eyes back to him and smiled. "However, I do disagree with your suasion, only because I feel you are undermining my judgments."

    "Crown princess."

    "Your Highness, my crown prince, with all due respect. I am the crown princess who knows not only how to arrange flowers." This time, her tone, although calm, it was firm. She stared at him dead in the eye and added, "as I had mentioned, I will always be on my husband''s side. Your downfall will also be mine and even if you are capable, it worries me how the third prince had the gall to seduce the crown princess."

    "He seduced you?" he cocked his head to the side while his eyes clouded with nothing but coldness.

    "Jealous?" she smirked with an arched brow.

    "Not really."

    "Hahбн" Aries simply shrugged as she averted her gaze. "Anyway, it''s amusing, in a way. I would like to see how the third prince tries to lure me."

    Joaquin observed how the corner of her lips curled up while gazing at the flowers. It was not the first time he warned her about the people approaching her. But unlike her reaction and defending Inez, it was easy to discern her opinions towards Ismael.

    It pleased him and somehow she looked more attractive this way.

    "Anyway, I had sent the invitation to the House Lloyd. They will not say no since I''m the one who sent it." He changed the subject and tossed the previous subject at the back of his head as it seemed he didn''t need to worry anymore.

    Aries smiled beautifully. "Thank you. I really appreciate that."

    With that being said, the two seemed to have moved on. However, Aries was sure of one thing. Joaquin would try to eliminate Ismael as soon as possible. She just gave him that one light push he needed.

 Chapter 176 [Bonus Chapter]Summoning Pen Answered!

    Dayster...

    It was true that a wise andpassionate king with his warm heart influenced his people to govern the fallen Rikhill with mercy. However, that didn''t mean people born with insatiable greed didn''t exist even in such a ce. One of the downfalls of the kingdom of green was that those people with little power connived with the crown prince of the Maganti Empire.

    They sold theirnd, their people''s lives, and everything just for power and a little bit of wealth. Tragic how evil seemed to always prevail, butбн karma existed for a reason. Karma was neither good nor bad. It simply served you the same tea, albeit cold.

    "Your Highness, Countess Lloyd had arrived."

    Aries fluttered her eyshes as she carefully put down the tea back on the saucer. It was the first day of her in her office as the crown princess, so herdy-in-waiting arrived right on time. As expected from Joaquin''s power.

    "Let her in." Aries waved as she leaned back on the divan, propping her elbow over the armrest with her curled hand up. As ordered by the crown princess, the doors opened carefully and soon the sound of light footsteps caressed her ears.

    Countess Lloyd, the wife of the Earl of Carballo, Oscar Lloyd. She used to go by the name Cherry Borges, a daughter of a baron in Rikhill. Although she came from a lower noble house, because the king acknowledged the House Borges for their contribution to the empire, especially inmerce, she became Aries''s acquaintance.

    Acquittanceбн turned to friends and also her third brother''s lover. If only Aries knew that this youngdy and her damned family were people whose greed could reach the depths of hell, she would''ve in them when she had a chance.

    There was no point in dwelling in the past, though. She could settle the score with them now, anyway.

    "I pay my respect to the crown princess of the empire," greeted the woman, whose locks were the color of a plum. "I am honored to be in your presence."

    "Raise your head, Countess Lloyd."

    Cherry''s back stiffened at hearing a familiar voice, but she managed to control it well as she raised her head. No matter how good she was in keeping herposure, the second she locked eyes with those pair of opalescent eyes, her breath hitched as her eyes slightly went round.

    "I am pleased that you had epted my request to be mydy-in-waitingбн" Aries expressed kindly, sporting a friendly smile, ignoring the strange look in the countess''s eyes. "Why don''t youбн Countess? Is there something wrong with my face? You''re looking at me as if you''re looking at a ghostбн or was it my beauty again?"

    "Uh, apologies, Your Highness." Cherry cleared her throat as she tilted her head down once again.

    Aries chuckled and waved. "It''s alright. I understand you went straight to meet me after your arduous journey to the pce. Why don''t you take a seat and enjoy some tea I brewed myself?" she motioned her hand towards the chair across her.

    "It is better to get to know each other sinceбн you''ll be serving me from now on." She stressed hertter sentence, establishing their rtionship without sounding too overbearing.

    "Well, it is my honor."

    Aries watched Cherry take the armchair across from her. She was hundred percent certain Joaquin briefed Cherry about Aries''s resemnce to the person they called <strong>''that woman.''</strong> However, it was understandable that Cherry was still surprised because who wouldn''t?<sub> </sub>

    Cherry had seen Aries in that pathetic state multiple times and each time their eyes met back then, the former would always sneer at her. A triumphant sneer as if telling Aries she was now above her and Aries was nothing anymore. So, for them to meet again with Aries as Danie Circe Vandran and the crown princess, it would surely throw this woman off.

    "I was also surprised when I heard you had arrived in the capital. Hence, to show my sincerity, I thought of brewing you tea personally," Aries spoke as she poured the empty cup some tea. When she slid the saucer with the cup on it, she raised her head and smiled.

    "I hope you will like it."

    Cherry cleared her throat faintly as she forced a smile onto her face. "Thank you, Your Highness." She then reached for the teacup, only to stop midway when she noticed that Aries was watching her reach for the cup.

    "Yes?" Aries tilted her head to the side when their eyes locked with each other once again. "Are you, perhaps, thinking it is poisoned?"

    "Of course not, Your Highness," came out an awkward denial, but still hesitant to drink the tea Aries prepared. It was just their first meeting, but the sense of dread filling Cherry''s heart thickened by the second.

    Just like everybody else who had seen Aries''s face for the first time, she was wary. She knew what she did to that face, and also how Aries could be merciless to those who were proven guilty of a crime. A poison that would instantly kill her wouldn''t be impossible, but then again, everyone in this pce wronged her.

    Cherry was smart, although the presence of the woman sitting across from her was enough to make her blood run cold.

    "Then, drink." Aries urged in a soothing tone, keeping her warm smile. "It will help you ease your fatigue. I personally brewed it to make you rx."

    ''Make me rxбн?'' Cherry''s fingers hovering near the tea handle, trembled. ''Did she mean to make me rxбн permanently? Am I reading too much?''

    Many pros and cons crossed Cherry''s head, gravitating the chances that the tea was poisoned. When she convinced herself that it was very unlikely that Aries would poison her in this ce, Cherry gulped down and held the teacup.

    Her hand still trembled. Although she tried to control it, Aries could still see the vibration of the teacup while Cherry guided it to her lips.

    Aries''s eyes glinted for a split second as she smiled amicably.

    ''What a sight to behold,'' she thought, enjoying the anxiety dominating Cherry''s face even though the tea wasn''t poisoned. ''It''s too early for you to die, Cherry. I''ll make you enjoy the life of constantly looking over your shoulder and losing sleep because I will haunt you wherever you go.''

    "It''s good," Cherry expressed in relief as if a thorn was pluck out of her throat.

    Aries picked up the teacup, keeping her smile, eyes fixed on herdy-in-waiting. "I''m d you liked it," she said, staring at Cherry over the rim of the cup.

    Little did she know, while Aries had started setting up her cobwebs somewhere under the same sky, a particr tyrant was on his way to reward her with thousand kisses.

 Chapter 177 Will It Kill You If You Asked Nicely?

    "Ugh..."

    Dexter grunted at the striking pain that struck his head even before he could open his eyes. He held his head to keep it still from the constant bounce of his body.

    "Good evening."

    He popped his eyes open as soon as he heard a familiar voice. He wasn''t dreaming when he heard Abel''s voice as his eyesnded on this demon in human skin sitting across from him inside the carriage.

    Dexter winced and massaged his temple, ncing to his left, only to see Conan looking back at him nkly. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, sliding the window to breathe in some fresh air.

    "I hope this isn''t real," he grumbled, his frown going deeper and uglier. "Damn..."

    When the night breeze hit his face, he cursed. He knew something ridiculous like this would happen when Isaiah visited the marquess estate before dinner. The emperor''s pce had been busy recently. He should''ve known they were nning something.

    "Won''t you going to ask where are we going?" asked Abel after minutes because Dexter didn''t raise a question aside from the animal grunt he produced.

    Dexter cast him an indifferent look, still feeling the stiffness on his nape when Isaiah knocked him out. "Isn''t it obvious?"

    "Marquess, don''t you want to see Lady Aries as well?" Conan inquired with eyes full of wonder at Dexter''s hypocrisy. "Since we''re going on a vacation, we can''t let you slither around the empire. We can''t let you cause trouble once we return."

    "Will it kill you if you asked nicely?" Dexter inquired in disbelief, only to receive a remorseless reply from Abel.

    "We''re in a hurry and we do not have the spare time to indulge with your whims." Abel shrugged indifferently.

    "For goodness'' sake." Dexter breathed out as he pinched the space between his brows. An emperor, his legal adviser, the duke, and the marquess traveling secretly to another empire without a single soldier was something unheard of.

    For what?

    To meet a woman.

    ? If anyone heard about this, they would think it was some sort of joke. Who would believe it? The most powerful and influential individuals of a progressive empire were in the same in carriage that didn''t even have any insignia of which house it was from.

    Although it was understandable, they couldn''t travel with the royal carriage or the carriage from the House of Vandran to not garner attention. It was ridiculous! Dexter would''ve preferred traveling with his steed instead of getting stuck in the same carriage as these two.

    He never thought he would envy Isaiah in this lifetime, but that man surely had it easy by riding his steed.

    "Hmm... this is not good, Conan." Abel suddenly hummed while rubbing his chin. "We''ve been on the road for a long time, but we just exit the empire. At this rate, I''d die."

    "Isn''t that good news?" Dexter''s brows rose, eyes at Abel with a nk expression. "You''ve been trying to die."

    "Heh... I know, but dying just gives me a headache when I wake up once again. Moreover, it''s better to die after seeing my darling''s face for thest time, brother-inw."

    "Please don''t call me that. You''re my sister''s secret lover now, not her husband."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty, we agreed we will only move once we passed by the neighboring kingdoms." Conan pouted as he leaned backfortably, a little excited since it had been a while since he left the empire.

    "In that case, we won''t have a problem with the rumors spreading. I mean, people''s minds are so easy to hop from one conclusion to another and it evolves from one mouth to another. We can''t let others have a chance that points all these ridiculous conclusions at Haimirich."

    Dexter snorted, warranting him a re from Conan. "What? Didn''t you orchestrate such a rumor in the past that brought terror into Haimirich? Only to make His Majesty look like a hero? Can''t you do that again?"

    "For what? So you can sabotage me again?" Conan frowned as he clicked his tongue in dismay.

    "Why would I do that? I never won against you."

    "Never, tch. Stop pressing my nerve, will you, marquess? Do you want me to put everyone in those aristocrats in the guillotine?"

    "Do what you see fit. It''s not like I can''t groom more talents in the future."

    "So heartless!" Conan scrunched his nose up in dismay, looking at Dexter as if he was judging his entire insufferable existence. "And here you are, always judging us as if we''re viins when, in fact, you''re just as evil. Worse, even."

    Just when Dexter''s lips parted, his brows furrowed. The space between Conan''s brows also wrinkled as they noticed someone was oddly silent. Both of them set their eyes on Abel, who was sitting across from them.

    Abel was just staring at them with his arms crossed, tilting his head when he exchanged looks with them.

    "Your Majesty, you''re not thinking of kicking the door open and just fly away, right?" asked Conan without beating around the bush, knowing how impulsive the emperor could be.

    "No."

    "Then why are you silent?"

    "Do you want me to sing?" Abel cocked his head to the side, batting his eyes almost innocently. "I am not joining your conversation because I don''t talk to kids. Being an adult is what I''m doing. So, I''m trying to understand your silly repartee."

    "..."

    For a moment, Dexter and Conan stared at him with a dead expression. Abel truly had the gall to say that to them with a straight face? But then again, Conan and Dexter had been bantering. That was very unusual. Or rather, it had been a very long time since they bantered like children.

    "Ahem!" Conan cleared his throat with his fist in front of his lips. He then nced at Abel once again, but thetter didn''t seem he was trying to purposely hit their nerves.

    Instead, Abel was looking out in a window solemnly. When Abel opened his mouth, his words weren''t even for them but to the person riding his steed in front of the carriage.

    "Isaiah, in about... one league, some buffoons will try to see me. I refuse their request, and I do not want this carriage to move slower than it already is." He casually spoke as if the situation wasn''t as dark as it sounded it to be.

    "No dy, that is what we agreed. Clear the road."

 Chapter 178 I Miss Abel

    Days had passed and Aries quickly got used to the life as the crown princess. She had worked hard before her wedding. Not to mention, she used to attend the court matters in the Haimirich with Abel, and Conan himself trained her.

    Therefore, the matters she was handling were nothing. It was more like handling the easiest task back in Rikhill.

    "Hmmбн" Aries hummed as she read the document on the desk.

    "Your Highness, would you want to take a break and enjoy a cup of tea?" she arched a brow and gazed at Cherry, herdy-in-waiting, who was standing on the side near Aries'' desk. "You''ve been working hard since morning. Apologies if I''m overstepping."

    "It''s alright, Countess Lloyd. I understand that you''re simply concerned about my well-being." Aries sported a smile as she pushed herself away from the desk. "Something that will soothe my muscles and clear my mind is something I sorely need now."

    "Then, I will return." Cherry tilted her head down before walking away gracefully. Meanwhile, Aries rose from her seat and picked up the document she was reading, walking towards the set of settees inside her office. When she perched on the end of the long settee, Aries propped her arm over the armrest and sighed.

    "I miss Abel." She bit her tongue as her eyes dted, gazing at the shut door. Aries heaved a sigh of relief and patted her chest when she was certain no one was inside, aside from her.

    ''My goodness Aries.'' Shaking her head as she had been missing Abel every passing day. Those words had been a constant thought, a subconscious sentiment. She didn''t think she would whisper it unconsciously.

    ''I guess I really miss him.''

    A frown dominated her face as she felt a little drained. Although her ns were moving on as nned, it would be better to hug him, even just for a second. Just one tight hug, she thought. But she didn''t really have a choice. She knew Abel hadn''t reached Haimirich even if he rode the fastest steed. It was just impossible.

    "I miss Abel," she repeated in a somber tone, ncing at the document in her hands. "Can''t they give me a harder task to solve? I''ll do the Maganti a favor just because I need to distract myself for a bit."

    Another sigh slipped past her lips before she tossed her head back, eyes closed, to rx them for a bit. Maybe it was the waiting, she thought, that she was feeling a bit bored and couldn''t help but yearn for Abel.

    There was never a second dull moment with that guy. Be it his out of nowhere thoughts or just his ridiculous ideas, Aries missed all of them. Who would have thought there would be a time she would miss that menace?

    "Your Highness."

    Aries slowly opened her eyes when she heard a knock on the door, letting out another faint sigh for the umpteenth time. She responded, e in," in a soft voice, peeling her eyes away from the ceiling to the document in her hand.<sub> </sub>

    As Cherry pushed the trolley tray inside, Aries nced at her for a second. She hadn''t been giving Cherry a scare since their first meeting, letting her feelfortable, knowing she had been reporting to Joaquin since day one.

    ''Should I y with her for a bit?'' she wondered, tossing away the thought when Cherry served her the tea. ''Nevermind. Cherry can have her peace of mind for now. There''s some important thing I must focus on.''

    "Countess Lloyd, would you share a cup of tea with me?" Aries proposed with a subtle smile, to which Cherry returned with a polite one.

    "It''s my honor, Your Highness."

    Aries rocked her head, watching Cherry sit across from her. This had been their activity together, giving Cherry the impression of how Aries enjoyed teas. It was the opposite of the Aries this woman knew. Aries didn''t like tea that much бк she preferred the strong aroma of coffee back at Rikhill.

    "Lady Lloyd, have you prepared a dress for the uing ball hosted by the ninth princess?" asked Aries right after Cherry sipped tea. "If you still hadn''t had one yet, should I prepare you one?"

    "Your Highness, that is very generous of you, but how dare I simply ept such an offer so easily?"

    "It is my first public appearance. Therefore, as mydy-in-waiting, I want my people to standout." Aries shrugged nonchntly, speaking without brakes, as that was just Danie''s character. It wasn''t from the goodness of her heart, it was simply toбн <strong>promote. </strong>

    Yes. If everyone sees Cherry stood out on the ball, Aries would take all the credit. Although she was certain Cherry would stand out even without her help since thetter took care of herself very well and often wanted to be the center of attention.

    In that case, people would have an impression that the crown princess took care of her people. Thus, many would want to curry favor just to gain such perks. It was something she learned in Haimirich as Danie and her small circle of friends in that ce were queens of tea parties and banquets.

    They were the women who had control of the current in the high society. Aries had to dominate the high society here since the information in the high society was fast, albeit not entirely reliable. But then again, a good and believable story was hard to kill, even if it was a total lie.

    Cherry sported aplicated smile, but when she saw Aries arched a brow, she didn''t have a choice.

    "Then, thank you for your benevolence, Your Highness." She epted with a smile and bowed, hoping Aries wasn''t thinking of dressing her up with themon trend that wouldn''t make her look special for the night. Cherry didn''t have the same level of beauty as the crown princess, so she had to prepare well to stand out.

    "I''ll take care of you, Lady Lloyd." Aries smiled back, looking back at her with delight. "Don''t worry. We''ll get you measuredter. I just thought of a design that will suit you perfectly."

 Chapter 179 How Nice Would It Be To Fly

    One of the things Aries learned in Haimirich was designing dresses. It was a skill that wasn''t really her intention to learn. The situation forced her to because her lover, the emperor of the empire, was too picky in choosing her dresses. Heavens knows how all the renowned seamstresses were summoned under the royal decree just to make multiple custom dresses for Aries.

    What made it hard for them to know what would suit Aries was that they didn''t get to see her face for the confidentiality of the emperor and Aries''s affair. So, to save them all the trouble, Aries requested the seamstresses to send their design first before they make it.

    She resorted to this when Abel''s frown grew worse during her fitting and tore all of them. Abel just inted her confidence while just being honest, like usual.

    "I miss Abel."

    Gertrude froze whilebing Aries''s hair when thetter whispered with her eyes closed. She then gazed at Aries with shaking eyes through the mirror, noticing that the crown princess seemed unaware of what just came out of her lips. It raised concern for her since Aries had also said that while she was bathing.

    "Your Highness," called Gertrude with a worried voice, watching Aries open her eyes ever so tenderly. "You''ve been expressing your longing for His Majesty aloud."

    "I do?" she batted her eyeszily, tilting her head.

    "Your Highness, what if someone hears you?"

    Aries blinked twice, pressing her lips into a thin line while humming. "But I miss Abel, Gertrude." Her frown grew worse, thinking of spending another night beside a detestable creature. Although Joaquin''s sleep was growing deeper every passing night, his presence alone was enough to disturb her.

    That was what she signed up for, though.

    "Your Highness, I understand your sentiments, butбн please be careful." Gertrude let out a defeated sigh because this was the first in a long time that Aries frowned like a spoiled princess.

    Ever since the crown princess''s arrival in this ce, even Gertrude had to tread on eggshells as she didn''t know what was going on inside Aries''s head. But now, Aries''s heart was written all over her face.

    Gertrude continued tob Aries''s hair gently. "I''m certain His Majesty also yearns for your presence, Your Highness."

    "He better should," came out a grumble, pouting at the thought of having this one-sided feeling. "If only I can fly like a bird, I would''ve gone to Haimirich just to take a look. How nice would it be if I can do that бк convenient too!"

    "Your Highness." A chuckle slipped past the maid''s lips while she shook her head lightly, rxing her tensed shoulders until she finishedbing her. "Your Highness, I will prepare you some of your favorite teas and snacks tomorrow to uplift your mood."

    "Thank you, Gertrude." Aries smiled, gazing at her personal maid while thetter smiled back.<sub> </sub>

    Gertrude didn''t stay for too long since Aries was expecting Joaquin toe. But as usual, Gertrude lighted up all the scented candles until the smell ofvender filled the room. It had be their little ritual, so she somehow got used to it already.

    "I''ll be taking my leave, Your Highness."

    "Have a great night, Gertrude." Aries waved, watching her personal maid bow when she was by the door before leaving. "She''s been so uptighttely as well, but I can''t really me her, since my mood affects her as well."

    For the nth time, Aries let out a deep exhaled before she pushed herself up from the stool to the bed. Another night with Joaquin. Ever since they reconciled after their first argument, Joaquin never failed to sleep in her room. Gertrude could only change the candles to a new set with a higher dose since the effect was getting less effective.

    "Just for a few more days, Aries," she whispered, massaging her nape as she plopped her butt down on the edge of the mattress. "After that, I''m certain everyone will get busy."

    She looked back at the door, hoping Joaquin would trip over and hit his head so he wouldn''te tonight. At a time when yearning for Abel was growing unbearable, she wanted to be alone. She didn''t want to vent her frustration to Joaquin mindlessly.

    "Never mind. This feeling will pass soon." Aries shook her head and slid under the sheet to rest for a bit before her husbandes.

    Sadly, even though she sincerely hoped that Joaquin would miss tonight''s visit, he still came. But unlike the usual nights where she had to indulge with him, Joaquin was just as exhausted as her. So, they called it a night and slept. Usually, Aries wouldn''t sleep deeply, but she could only meet Abel in her dreams. Hence, she forced herself and was sessful.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>As</strong> the night grew deeper and silent, Aries and Joaquin slept soundlessly with the help of the scented candles. They were both fast asleep, unaware of the faint creak of the door from outside the balcony. The second the door went ajar, the soft wind from the outside extinguished the light of the nearest candbra on the stand.

    His shadow stretching towards the bed showed how his wings slowly shrunk, taking soundless steps inside until he was standing on the side of the bed.

    ''Hmmбн'' Abel nted his hand on his hips, darting his eyes from Aries, who squeezed herself on the edge of the bed. One wrong move, she would roll over the bed. Meanwhile, her husband, Joaquin, was sleeping infort.

    ''What a bastard to upy the space of the bed whilst my darling is all shrunk on this side,'' he thought, ignoring the hundredth way of how to make that man disappear from the face of the world that crossed his head the second he entered the room. Abel clicked his tongue faintly before setting his focus on her sleeping face.

    ''Godбн I missed her, that''s for sure.'' His eyes softened as a subtle smile resurfaced on his face.

 Chapter 180 He Would Set The World On Fire, But Would Not A Single Flame Touch Her.

    Abel wasn''t crazy.

    He does crazy things, but he knew he was sane бк whatever sane even meant. However, for the past several days, he believed he had a glimpse of the line between sane and sanity.

    It was very clear.

    Over that line was just a vast, empty expanse.

    If Abel didn''t see Aries or hear even her breath for one more day, he was certain he would go beyond the line of insanity and search for her over there. Funny that her absence was something he could bear for several days only. More than that? Even Abel''s people weren''t safe бк Conan, for example. He nearly died, if not for Isaiah.

    Abel stared at Aries for a very long time while squatting beside the bed, cupping his cheek with a satisfied smile stered across his face.

    ''How cute,'' he thought. ''Should I kiss her to wake her up? But it seemed she''s exhausted.''

    Honestly, he was even surprised that he hadn''t woken her up. He missed her so much, to the point he didn''t know how to express it. He was afraid that if he hugged her right now, he would hug her so tight she would suffocate to death or kiss her until he sucked the life out of her.

    What a deadly existence.

    "I''m so excited I can''t meet you with all these heightened emotions," he mumbled, pouting, a bit disappointed to know himself more than anyone.

    Just then, an idea suddenly crossed his head. The corner of his lips curled up into an evil smirk as the side of his eyes crinkled. Abel licked his lips, opening his mouth while letting his fangs grow.

    When his fangs let themselves known, Abel pressed his thumb against it until a droplet of blood oozed from his thumb. He then extended his arm, pressing his thumb to her forehead while chanting inaudible words under his breath.

    Nothing happened even when he withdrew his thumb, pushing his thigh to stand up. As soon as he did, all windows and even the door of the balcony suddenly opened, letting in the night breeze, extinguishing all the lights from the candbras in the room.

    Abel then walked around the bed and stood on the side where Joaquin was sleeping on. He bent over, blowing gently at thetter''s eyes to wake him up. However, Joaquin was still deep in his sleep, causing Abel to frown as he nced around.

    Aries''s scented candles were too potent to inhale. Although he wasn''t worried about his darling since Dexter helped her concoct this poison recipe, those who weren''t resistant to poison like Joaquin wouldn''t wake up.

    "What a bother. I just want to talk." He frowned, but then squeezed his bleeding thumb and let it drip into Joaquin''s mouth. "Darling, you should thank meter for resetting his system. We can''t let him gain resistance to poison as a side effect of these candles, correct?"

    Dexter and Aries were aware of these side effects, but they had nned many ways to counter it. Still, Abel thought it was better for Joaquin to have a zero chance at all. Well, actually, that wasn''t really his intention.

    Feeding Joaquin a bit of his blood would cleanse Joaquin and could make thetter strong for some time.

    A perk that ran in Abel''s blood. A poison and an antidote.

    "Wakey, cakey," Abel crooned as he retrieved his thumb, resting his hand on his thigh, eyes on Joaquin. "Isaiah, silence the entire imperial pce forбн probably ten minutes. Let everyone have a good night''s sleep."<sub> </sub>

    Although Isaiah wasn''t anywhere around him, Abel still spoke out his orders. He once again blew at Joaquin''s eyes, watching his brows wrinkle as thetter grunted.

    "Time to wake up, dearest crown prince." The corner of Abel''s lips stretched broader as Joaquin opened his eyes.

    As soon as thetter caught the figure hovering over him and those pair of glowing red eyes, a surge of panic crawled up his spine. Abel hopped back when Joaquin jolted up in defense of the danger right before him.

    Joaquin''s eyes studied the figure of the man standing at arm''s length away from the bed, unable to see his face with only the light from the moon shining through the open window and the balcony''s door.

    "Who are you?" asked Joaquin, cautiously reaching for his sword that was just near the nightstand.

    Myriads of questions and conclusions hovered over the crown prince''s head at the situation he awoke to. He already believed Abel was an assassin sent by Ismael.

    Abel cocked his head, blinking twice with genuine wonder in his eyes. "You don''t seem very concern about your wife." He nced at Aries'' back, feeling a bit sad for her because she married an absolute asshole since Joaquin didn''t even nce at Aries despite mentioning her.

    "Youбн" Joaquin breathed out, containing his anger as his fingertips touched the scabbard of his sword. As soon as he grazed his sword, he didn''t hesitate to snatch it and unsheathed it, swinging it at Abel at the same time he lurched out of the bed.

    "бн how dare you target me, the crown prince?!"

    Dripбн dripбн dripбн

    Joaquin''s breath hitched as his eyes slowly dted, pulling his sword back, but to no avail. His eyes fell on the blood dripping on the floor, raising his gaze to the bare hand holding the de as if it was nothing. When he lifted his head, the light from the outside shone on the left side of Abel''s face, granting Joaquin to see a little bit of the "assassin''s" face.

    Abel was unsmiling while looking at him dead in the eye. "I''m sorry, crown prince," he hummed, pulling the de along with Joaquin. The second he did, he raised his free hand and a resounding pnded on the crown prince''s cheek.

    CLAP!

    Taken by surprise at the ringing t line in his ear, Joaquin couldn''t even feel his cheek when another pnded on the side of his head. Upon the second p, Joaquin''s eyes went round as he gazed up at Abel nkly.

    "Awake now?" Abel cocked his head, batting his eyes almost innocently. "Eight minutes, Your Highness."

    His lips curled up as his eyes squinted and glinted menacingly. "I''ll introduce the longest eight minutes of your pathetic life." This time, Abel pulled the de and grabbed Joaquin''s cor with his free hand until Joaquin''s feet left the ground.

    "What are you бк!!" Joaquin struggled, holding on to Abel''s sleeve but to no avail.

    Abel carried him out to the balcony while saying in azy tone, "we can''t disturb my darling while we have a boy''s night, Your Highness. Indulge with me for eight minutes."

    Even though Joaquin was in a slight state of shock, he knew only the worse awaited him.

 Chapter 181 His Bottomline

    When Abel reached the balcony, his expression was something no one had seen before.

    Anger.

    Even though he was an infamous tyrant, no one had truly seen Abel get angry. He would get annoyed, but not to the extent he would get angry. But Joaquinбн this man pressed his bottom line just by existing.

    "Stop whining." Abel tossed Joaquin against the railing, not giving him a chance as he raised his wounded palm to thetter''s lips. "Drink. I can''t let you die tonight."

    Despite resisting Abel, he was strong and Joaquin never felt so powerless against an opponent. As Abel roughly pressed his palm against his lips, Joaquin couldn''t stop the blood filling his mouth that slowly trickled down his throat.

    He kept his eyes on Abel''s face. Although dim, he could see the unsmiling face of the person. Joaquin slightly felt he had seen this person somewhere. He just couldn''t point his finger where exactly, and he didn''t have the luxury to ponder about that because he knew this maniac would kill him.

    "Good." Abel rocked his head and nced over the balcony. "Now die."

    Without a second hesitation, he pushed Joaquin''s face, but thetter managed to grab the railings on instinct. Thetter''s muffled grunts caressed Abel''s ears, causing his eyes to glint menacingly.

    "What? Scared?" Abel tilted his head, barely blinking while looking at him. "Don''t be, Your Highness. Thank the woman sleeping back there that I only n to break your spine a few times."

    The aura that exuded from Abel''s back grew darker and thicker, pushing Joaquin''s face over the railing until thetter''s upper body was out of it. He wasn''t even exerting too much effort, but the crown prince already felt powerless against him.

    "How annoying." Abel clicked his tongue and, using a bit of force, Joaquin''s body rolled over the railing.

    Joaquin''s world felt like it slowed down as he stared at the person who looked over the balcony, watching him fall nonchntly. He reached his hands out, but his fingertips simply grazed the balcony, and then his distance from it simply grew wider.

    <strong>''No,''</strong> he thought, heart skipping a few beats as he held his breath. Landing from this height would definitely kill him, but he couldn''t ask for anyone''s help. All he could do was keep his eyes on the balcony, watching Abel sit on the railing before flinging his legs out.

    He couldn''t even wonder why Abel jumped out of the balcony voluntarily. Even so, Joaquin''s already widened eyes dted even more as soon as he locked eyes with this maniac, and time ticked to its normal pace.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    "Ugh!!!"

    Pain.

    Joaquin initially thought he would die upon hisnding, but instead of death, the pain he never felt in his life came. He felt like his lungs were constricting as if something was stuck in them when he breathed in heavily, wincing as pain traveled to the ends of his nerves. He didn''t even realize the light thud near him when Abelnded safely.

    "Don''t kill him, Abel," he told himself under his breath, marching towards Joaquin with his eyes fixed on the man. "Just a warm-up so you don''t kill her."<sub> </sub>

    "Hey." Abel grabbed Joaquin''s cor and lifted him up, smirking evilly as he tipped his head to the side. "I won''t kill you, alright? I really won''t. I promised! I swear to the demon Iбн"

    Crackбн.

    "Arghбн!" Another loud grunt escaped Joaquin''s mouth when Abel stomped his feet on his wrist.

    "бн won''t kill you." Abel licked his lips as his eyes darkened, wondering which bone he should break next. But even before he could decide, Abel twisted his heel on Joaquin''s wrist until he could hear the sound of his bone-shattering.

    Joaquin''s squeals and his bones breaking sounded like music to Abel''s ears. Hence, to keep listening to this music in a loop, Abel kept beating him to release the ''unnecessary'' excitement before meeting Aries.

    While Abel was having the time of his life in <strong>''getting to know'' </strong>Joaquin, two figures who were around the area were watching this one-sided fight. Actually, it was more like torture than a fight.

    p "He will kill him even though he keeps swearing he won''t." Dexter cast Conan a side-eye, standing in the middle of the open balcony, connecting the Sapphire pce to another. When Conan scrunched his nose up, so Dexter added;</anda>

    "You''ll let him beat the crown prince to death? Giving up on this entire revenge n?"

    "Marquess, between me and that piece of garbage, I value my life more. There''s no way I will go there and stop His Majesty." Conan shot Dexter a knowing look, eyes filling with criticism as if he couldn''t believe thetter couldn''t guess Conan''s thoughts when it was too obvious.

    "Make sense." Dexter ignored the look in Conan''s eyes as he set his gaze back on Abel''s standpoint. The emperor of Haimirich was currently dragging Joaquin''s feet only to toss him towards the wall like a piece of paper.

    "Death is never his way to punish people," he whispered as his eyelids drooped until they were partially closed. "It''s lifeбн a living hell." бк Dexter knew that since he had received the cruelest punishment Abel had put onto someone.

    Both men could only shake their heads, not even sorry for Joaquin. The man deserved it. Actually, this beating was not enoughpared to everything he did to Aries. They were far from even.

    "He should scream more, so he knows how it feels to scream for help and get help from nobody." Dexter smacked his lips as he pivoted on his heel, heading to the Sapphire pce as that was their destination.

    Meanwhile, Conan stayed in his spot for a moment, eyes on Abel''s expression that didn''t bear excitement or anything of the sort.

    Abel was just angry and he could barely contain himself.

    "I''ve always known he dislikes the Maganti Empire, but I can''t even recall thest time I''ve seen His Majesty get angry," Conan muttered, nodding, before following Dexter''s tracks. "Maganti is done for, that''s for sure."

    Despite the conclusion that crossed both men''s heads, they felt nothing about it. Still, one thing was clear to them. They nowpletely understood Abel''s remarks, "if not for Aries."

    If not for Aries, the Maganti Empire was already a wastnd of the dead. And another thing wasбн they wouldn''t leave the Maganti Empire without Aries.

 Chapter 182 [Bonus Chapter] Thanks For The 200 GT!

    When Abel said he would resurrect Joaquin from the dead just to kill him, he meant it literally. Deathбн was far too easy for an ending for someone like Joaquin. Abel wasn''t trying to wash his hands clean. He had done worse than what Joaquin couldmit in his entire life.

    The only difference between Abel and Joaquin was that the former never denied everything he had done to anyone. Those who held grudges against himбн he knew all of them and had given them all a chance to exact their vengeance.

    Wasn''t that the rule? ept that a person''s action would go back to them one way or another?

    So why was Joaquin so pathetic?

    Abel gazed at Joaquin, who was crawling on the ground after getting beaten mercilessly. Thetter''s bones and wounds were healing, but the pain he had inflicted remained. It hurt like hell and Abel knew that because he had experienced this hell more than he could ever count.

    Experiencing pain and wishing to die but being unable to do so was akin to burning with eternal mes in hell. All you can do was scream, run around, roll on the ground, and inflict pain on yourself, but the fire would always be there.

    "How pathetic," came out a crisp voice, looking down at this man who had wronged her. "I would''ve yed with you longerбн for at least a hundred years."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips. He woke up Joaquin just to blow off some steam, but it didn''t quench his anger. He wanted more; he wanted to hurt him more, to make him scream, to see fear in his eyes, to understand even the slightest of Aries''s pain.

    The pain that haunted her even in the happiest seconds of her life.

    "What should we do to thest thirty seconds of our time together?" he asked, resting his hand on his hips while watching Joaquin crawl away from him. "So boringбн I can''t believe I stopped thirty seconds earlier."

    He shook his head lightly, letting out another sigh before he looked heavenward. The night was still silent, with Joaquin''s grunting and panting fading in the night breeze. Abel closed his eyes and took a deep breath and then stretched his neck in a circr motion.

    It was good he stopped early or he would''ve killed Joaquin. He couldn''t revive him if he was already decapitated, after all.

    Abel counted under his breath. "Tenбн nineбн eightбн" opening his eyes upon reaching three, eyes falling on Joaquin''s back.

    "One."

    As soon as that word slipped past Abel''s lips, he marched towards Joaquin and grabbed him from the back. As if lifting a toy that weighed a feather, Abel tossed Joaquin directly back onto the balcony on the second floor of the castle. He then jumped towards it,nding on the railing while Joaquin was on the floor of the balcony, coughing out blood upon breaking his spine.

    "Tch. That won''t kill you. Stop being so dramatic." Abel clicked his tongue, kicking him in the side of his abdomen before walking over him, leaving him on the balcony while he marched inside the room. On his way inside, Abel took off his linen inner blouse and tossed it to the nearby armchair.

    But instead of going straight to Aries, Abel halted and looked around at the lightless room. Smacking his lips, he leisurely approached the stand and picked up a match to light all the candbras in the room.

    Soon, the scent ofvender filled the chamber, staring at the lit candle for a moment in silence.<sub> </sub>

    "The Maganti Empireбн when do I get to erase you in the maps of the world?" he wondered under his breath, twisting his neck to look at the balcony. He nned to leave Joaquin outside the balcony where he could heal overnight, but Aries would panic; she would surely panic with just the thought of Abel inside her room, though.

    "Whatever. He shouldn''t pass out just yet."

    Abel waved and walked back to the balcony. Standing by the door, he tilted his head, seeing Joaquin still gasping for air, looking at the night sky nkly.

    "Come. We can''t let you catch a cold," was the only words Joaquin heard before Abel dragged his feet inside the room. He only dragged Joaquin enough to close the door of the balcony before dropping his feet nonchntly.

    "Sleep there. Your wife will get worried." Abel shed him a smile before pivoting on his heel, heading for the other door which led to her bathing area. He couldn''t join Aries reeking of blood and sweat. Although she didn''t mind in the past whenever Abel was stained with blood, he didn''t want to cause her inconvenience by washing the dirt off of her.

    Aries would alsoin since Gertrude would have to burn the sheet to erase the evidence of blood. They couldn''t let ridiculous rumors from arising from thevoir because of the excessive bloodstain.

    <o>,m Meanwhile, as Abel walked around the room as if it was his own, Joaquin''s gaze followed his figure. He was still paralyzed from the pain across his entire body, but he was conscious. Who that man wasбн Joaquin still couldn''t tell who it was. But what he was certain of was that he wasn''t human бк what he did to Joaquin and what Abel showcased wasn''t something a normal human could do.</o>

    ''Where did I see that face?'' he wondered, closing his eyes and wincing, breathing carefully because his broken rib was poking his lungs. He tried to stay calm and rest, feeling his eyelids grow heavier from exhaustion and pain. But he fought sleep.

    In his head, if he slept, he might not wake up. Joaquin opened his eyes and unconsciously turned his head in the bed''s direction. He could barely see Aries''s shoulder as she was sleeping on her side.

    ''Circe.'' His mouth opened, but no words came out. He could only call for her in his head, hoping she would wake up so she could call for help. He didn''t even think that waking her up could put her in danger because the intruder seemed to just take a bath.

    Sadly, Joaquin couldn''t speak a word because Abel destroyed his throat. When the faint creak of the door caressed his ears, he stiffened, setting his eyes on the man in a robe, drying his damped hair with a small tower over his head.

    Abel nced at him and saw the crown prince looking in his direction, treading towards the bed where Aries was sleeping. Before joining her, the side of his lips curled up deviously.

    Joaquin was looking; there were more ways to hurt him and his ego without touching him. The crown prince used to watch Aries get vited by others. So now, he had to watch his beloved wife cuckold him.

    "Darling, your husband is here," Abel whispered, sitting on the edge of the mattress as he bent over to Aries. He traced her cheek with the apex of his nose, feeling her waist while trailing kisses on her neck. "I''m here, wife."

    Aries moaned while Abel showered her with sensual kisses. As soon as he heard his wife, Joaquin''s eyes dted, thinking his wife was mistaking another man as the smooching sound of kisses and moans soon reached his ears.

    ''Circeбн! That''s not me!'' бк but to no avail. Joaquin had to listen to his wife''s moans before he finally gave in and passed out.

 Chapter 183 She Is The Only Right Thing In His Life

    <strong>[ WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION. ]</strong>

    Aries moaned as she felt Abel''s familiar touches caressing her body, eyes closed. She chuckled faintly as his breath tickled her ears, only to pop her eyes open when a strong bite on her shoulder woke her from her dreams.

    "Shh." She held her breath, gazing at the pair of crimson eyes hovering over her with his palm over her mouth. Her brain buffered, blinking, trying to process what was going on.

    "Your husband might wake up," Abel whispered in her ear, biting the tip of it gently. "I missed you, darling."

    Aries''s brain and expression entered a nk state while Abel trailed kisses on her jaw down to the neck. His hand slipped under her dress, feeling her curves with his palm, tapping her hip lightly.

    ''Is this a dream?'' she wondered, staring at the ceiling as Abel slowly went south. Her mouth fell open as her knees trembled when Abel squeezed her thigh, spreading them open, only to feel his tongue glide down her slit.

    ''It''s not!'' Aries immediately looked down, opening her mouth, only to gasp. She covered her mouth on instinct, muffling her moan before turning her head to the side. To her shock, Joaquin wasn''t beside her anymore.

    ''What''s happening? Why is Abel here? Where did Joaquin go? Is he dead?!''

    Myriads of questions hovered over her head, only to shiver at the sensationing from herher region. The touch of his tongue on her clit overwhelmed her nervousness and confusion, moaning when his finger slowly went inside her.

    "Ahбн" She bit her tongue, running her fingers through his damped hair. It felt good. She felt good. Despite theck of answer to what was happening, that concern slowly dissipated at the intoxicating pleasure she was going through.

    The thought of yearning for him and wanting to cleanse herself of the people she interacted with for the past several weeks only heightened that desire. With her face painted in red, her chest moving up and down heavily, trying so hard to suppress her moans.

    "бн wantбн" came out a whisper, making him gaze up at her. "бн you."

    Abel shed her the most innocent smile while tilting his head to the side as he stood on his knees. He shot the person on the floor a side-eye, smirking triumphantly, before setting his focus back on Aries. When Abel bent over and his weight nketed her, he raised his brows to study her face.

    "Miss me too?" he frowned, batting his eyes coquettishly while brushing her cheek with the back of his fingers.

    Aries smiled subtly before cupping his cheek. "Very much," came out a whisper, lifting her head up to im his lips.

    "Mhm." His brows creased, inhaling her breath, snaking his arm around her waist. He bit her lips, releasing his repressed emotions of wanting to hold her, kiss her, and make out with her.

    Unlike usual, his kisses didn''t fight for dominance. It sought to be one with her, sliding up her nightdress, which easily left her body, andnding on the floor. On the same bed, she slept with the insufferable crown prince, which she would stare at every night, gravitating on which method he should die. Abel wanted to make sure to leave his traces on this ce.<sub> </sub>

    She wrapped her arms around his neck, spreading her legs open for him voluntarily. "Abel," came out a whisper, gasping upon feeling the tip of his erection sliding from her clitoris down to her entrance.

    "Make love with me," she whispered, almost begging under her breath.

    He grinned against her lips. "Happily."

    Aries gasped as she felt his girth intrude her entrance slowly but surely as if he wanted her to feel him. Her back arched as her toes curled the sheet, tightening her embrace around him. He hunched in, biting her shoulder whilst stopping himself from just fucking her.

    She never asked him to ''make love.'' This was the first, so he wanted to be a bit gentle. However, the overflowing love nectar on herher region was giving him a hard time controlling himself.

    "Darling," he called under his breath, lips grazing hers.

    "Call my name, Abel," she requested, mind buzzing at the euphoria seeping into every fiber of her body. She didn''t even think of Joaquin, forgetting him and everything, as that didn''t matter to her at this moment. All she wanted right now was Abel, the man she had longed to see and hear and feel.

    He was the only one she needed. His hell was the ce she found salvation and in his arms, she felt safe.

    Aries simply wanted that slight peace, even just for a moment. Ironic when their body was tangled and connected. But with him, she didn''t have to think of other things, even just for a second.

    "Oh, darling." Abel smiled as he moved his hips slowly, thrusting deep to feel more of the heat she stored from within. His eyes softened, seeing her adorable face while staring back at him. Although her face was painted red with her mouth slightly ajar, her eyes were as clear as ever.

    Those beautiful pair of emeralds were just as beautiful as a field full of flowers blooming on the first morning of spring. His heart was satisfied. Despite that she was legally married and her husband was just right outside the bed, it feltбн right.

    She was the only right thing that came into his life.

    "My darling Aries," he whispered, smashing his lips against her, thrusting deeper for her to moan into his mouth. He slowly picked up his pace, holding her wrist over her head while biting her shoulder until his teeth left a mark on her body.

    "Ahбн"

    Their expression crumpled in pleasure, basking in each other''s heat. Their deep breaths slowly filled the chamber along with their moan and grunt, sweat dripping on their body, but they didn''t stop as if nothing in this world mattered.

    They did it, over and over, barely having breaks in between, as if it was the end of the world. She didn''t even ask what he was doing there, since his presence was all she prayed for that night.

 Chapter 184 Partner In Crime... Literally.

    "How reckless."

    Abel caressed Aries''s spine with his fingertips, using his arm as his head cushion while she slept on his chest. He nced at her for a second before setting his eyes back on the ceiling.

    "I wonder if she thinks she was dreaming, or she simply didn''t care anymore."

    A frown resurfaced on his face at the thought. They had rounds of passion before dawn approached. Abel''s stamina for her was bottomless, so he couldn''t really sleep despite the exhausting exercise. But Aries just fell asleep as if there was nothing to worry about.

    "Darling, can you wake up for a second and answer my question?" Abel turned his attention back to the mischievous cat sleeping on his chest when he couldn''t take it anymore. "Did you just fuck me in your sleep?"

    Nothingбн

    His frown grew worse, shaking her body mildly to wake her up but to no avail. Abel squeezed her rear out of habit so he could think straight, rolling to his side to face her.

    "Darling," he called under his breath, brushing the apex of his nose against hers. "Aries."

    To his surprise, Aries simply moaned as she pulled his waist closer, burying her face in his chest.

    "Let me sleep first, Abel," came out a hoarse voice, rubbing his back while trying to get a full sleep. "I''ll ask you questions tomorrow. Let''s worry about it tomorrow."

    His brows rose as he gazed down at her, blinking twice. Aries was half-conscious, but it seemed she was aware of what was going on and didn''t want to dwell on it for now. The corner of his lips stretched, pulling her body and closing the tiny gap between them.

    "Good." He chuckled with his lips closed, rubbing her spine to help her sleep. "Night night."

    A subtle smile appeared on Aries''s face, keeping her eyes closed and body rxed in the safety of his embrace. Although she was shocked that this man was in this ce, Aries was just a little surprised and not at the same time. Why would she? The man was Abel. He had his ways.

    Moreover, she didn''t want to think about other things for now. Her body needed sleep. She couldn''t keep straining herself. A good sleep was needed for her tost long in this ce. Abel was the only person who could give her that since this chaotic man ironically give her that peace she needed.

    "Missed you," came out a whisper before sumbing to the darkness, unaware that her words were enough to melt someone''s rotten heart.

    "I amбн melting," Abel crooned with his ssic devious smirk cemented on his face. "Literallyбн my non-existent heart is."

    No wonder people sometimes express how someone melts their heart. Abel could understand that now with every word that woulde out of her mouth, her voice that was full of affection and sincerity.

    At this rate, he might die by evaporating. That was his thought before falling into a light sleep, keeping half of his consciousness awake to keep her safe.

    Unbeknownst to everyone in the Maganti Empire, inside the Sapphire Pce, the crown prince''s quarters, three people slept in the same room. The crown prince, his wife the crown princess, and the crown princess''s lover, the emperor of Haimirich.

    What scandalous news would it be if anyone knew about this?

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Morning came, and the warm atmosphere in the roomst night was instantly reced with dread.<sub> </sub>

    "Is he deadбн?" Aries, who was wrapping her body with the nket, gazed at Joaquin, who was sleeping on the floor. His clothes were dirty with a speck of blood all over, but there was no trace of wounds on his body, which she found a little strange.

    <o>,m "Uhm, darling, it''s amusing that is your first question!" Abel intoned, who was leaning against the headboard of the bed, blinking almost innocently. "I just made him sleep and thenбн dragged him out of the bed since the three of us can''t fit. It''s his honorable sacrifice for his wife and her lover. I can''t let him disturb us."</o>

    Her face contorted as she pinched the bridge of her nose. She knew she would have this headache once morning came. Good thing she forced herself to sleep and get a well-deserved rest. Meanwhile, Abel cocked his head to the side, fluttering his eysheszily as if he was simply in Haimirich.

    "Ugh... what do we..."

    Suddenly, Aries popped her eyes open when she heard a knock from outside, followed by Gertrude''s voice. As a routine, Aries knew Gertrude, along with several main chambers, were already on standby to bring them water to wash their faces.

    But how could she let them in when her lover was still naked under the sheet?! Aries shot him a look, sighing in defeat when Abel shed her an innocent smile.

    ''Now I don''t know if dying this problem is the right decision.'' She mentally shook her head while massaging her temple. ''Good job, Aries! How can you fall for his seduction?!''

    Many things crossed her head in a matter of a minute before she raised her head and sighed for the umpteenth time. Aries smacked her lips and smiled, making Abel raise his brows this time.

    "Help me," she urged, flinging her legs out of the bed, standing naked while running her fingers through her golden hair.

    "Talk about morning glory." He adored her glorious body to his heart''s content, only to frown when Aries cast him a dead look.

    "What are you doing? Let''s carry him back on the bed!" Aries urged whilst keeping her voice down. "He can''t wake up looking like this?"

    Abel scrunched his nose up while staring at her dted eyes, which appeared to be a warning look from her.

    "Darling, are you, perhaps, a psychopath?" she nearly choked on her own breathing upon his question, watching him cross his arms. "The two of us carrying this man''s body back on the bed and cleaning him up will look like we''reбн errбн. partner''s in crime? The literal one, though. And that doesn''t sit well with me."

    Her mouth opened and closed in disbelief before she managed to find her voice. "Then what do you want us to do? Let him be?" Aries scoffed before marching toward the bed and perched on the edge of the mattress.

    "Abel, if that doesn''t sit well with you, why did you evene in here knowing this ce is that person''s ce?" she asked, pointing a finger at Joaquin, eyes at Abel. "This is not Haimirich бк wait, didn''t you go back to Haimirich?"

    "I did and then came back because I can''t stand not seeing you."

    "Goodnessбн!" She held her head and closed her eyes, taking deep breaths. The only good thing in this ce was that the servants wouldn''t go in without permission. Joaquin was still inside. So they wouldn''t get in because they might witness the royalty''s intimate moment.

    "Darling, stop stressing." Abel sighed as he extended his arm, reaching for her ear, and rubbed it with his thumb. "I''ll carry him myself and then ask your trusted maid to clean him up while we bathe together. How about that?"

    "Pardon?"

    Abel blinked. "Stop touching him in my presence, is what I''m saying." Cocking his head to the side, keeping all the underlying reasons why her idea didn''t sit well with him.

    Aries frowned while staring back at him. In the end, she could only nod and they went with his n. Abel carried Joaquin on the bed while Aries only allowed Gertrude inside the room. Little did thetter know, she was about to meet the shock of her life.

 Chapter 185 Dont Insult Him Like That!

    "You didn''t go back to Haimirich."

    Aries instigated, sitting on the other end of the tub with her arms crossed, eyes at the man on the other end of the tub. Abel had his arms spread over the rim, brows raised.

    "I did."

    "No, you nned to," she corrected in what she believed was what he truly meant. "You can''t go back and forth from Maganti to Haimirich in such a short time."

    Abel let out a shallow breath and shrugged. "I flew."

    "Flew?"

    "Yes."

    p "Like with wings?" she asked, only to see him nod without a second hesitation, rendering her speechless for a moment. "You''re saying you have wings? And you flew from here to Haimirich? What are you? An angel?"</anda>

    He gasped in utter disbelief with his nose scrunched up. "Darling, don''t insult me like that! Demons also fly!"

    This time, Aries closed her eyes as she took deep breaths. She was already used to Abel using this ridiculous excuse, thinking this was his way to stray her attention. If only she knew he wasn''t lying; Abel did fly.

    "Alright, whatever." She shook her head as if that would help her clear her head. "Let''s just say you did, alright? What about Haimirich, Abel? How can you leave your empire and go to another just toбн"

    "Just to do what?" Abel cocked his head to the side. "Just to fuck? Correction. I didn''t fuck you. I made love with you and that is hundred times more important than Haimirich."

    "Your people! What about them?" she stressed, widening her eyes to get her point across.

    "Well, what about them, darling?"

    "Ughбн how can you бк goodness!" Aries massaged her temple.

    Aside from Joaquin, who was ''drugged'' as what Abel told her, having Abel in Maganti only spoke trouble. Even if he was capable, how could he intrude in a ce бк an imperial pce, to be precise бк with no official invitation whatsoever?

    If Abel got killed in this ce, no one would even know! The Maganti Empire would surely use this excuse to invade the Haimirich Empire.

    While Aries was massaging her temples with her eyes closed, Abel simply stared at her in silence. He already voiced out that he didn''t want to talk about Haimirich with Aries, knowing this would be her concern. However, she wouldn''t believe him about reaching Haimirich and then going back to Maganti.

    Not that he didn''t understand her argument, but there wasn''t really any problem with Haimirich. He worked ten times harder just to settle things in Haimirich before setting off, so those who were left in charge didn''t have to make huge decisions themselves.

    ''I didn''t need to do that and let Haimirich dieбн'' he thought, lowering his gaze before raising them back to her. ''бн I don''t need it anymore, but youбн''

    Abel closed his eyes and stretched his neck from one side to the other, ignoring her mumblings andints. When he opened his eyes, a glint flickered on them as his gaze instantlynded on her.

    "Aries," he called, putting a halt to her grumblings. "Darling."<sub> </sub>

    He grabbed the rims of the tub, pulling himself as he slid closer to her. When he was just two palm lengths away from her, he searched for her eyes and batted them ever so tenderlyбн and dangerously.

    "I told you in the past, you don''t want your name inside my head," came out a rasped and dark voice, leaning his face forward, eyes locked with her. "However, not only did your let your name known to me, you lived inside my head, vandalizing every space whilst writing your name in every corner you see."

    Abel tapped his temple lightly. "You have to take responsibility."

    "Abel, you''re scaring me." Aries ced her fist in his inked chest, leaning back as he looked like he would not her neck if she didn''tply. The man looked like someoneбн the person who took her in. His aura, his eyes, and just his tone were like a cold ssh of water, reminding her of what kind of person he was not long ago.

    Abel didn''t change. He changed his ways, but he would always be Abel. Someone who was like a ticking time bomb and would set the world on fire if someone ticked him off the wrong way.

    "Darling, it''s a mistake if you think you shouldn''t." He blinked, studying her face before he raised his thumb to caress her cheek. "If you''re worried about Haimirich, I''ll just burn it myself so you don''t have to worry about it anymore. Don''t push me away, I''m not lying."

    Aries bit her inner lip, lowering her gaze as she let out a shallow breath. "The peopleбн people''s lives have value."

    "Are you saying your husband and everyone in this damned pce has value? Do you pity them?"

    "No, but бк"

    "No buts, darling. Once you killed someone, you killed. End of conversation. Your hands are sullied. Wars are only the excuse to make a murderer sounds like a good thing, granting the person who killed the most as a hero," he exined in a knowing tone, not sugar-coating even the tiniest bit of detail. "Killing the crown prince, the royal family, and their people, do you think the Maganti will be a better ce? Darling, have you gone out of this ce? Have you seen the people over the castle walls? What would you do if you see the smiles on the people in the streets?"

    "Even if you say, there were parts in this ce that would incite public rage, you can''t stop it. Poverty, prostitution, the ck market, and all those things will never end, darling. That is what humans callбн the sad truth; the truth is always sad and harsh, the reason people don''t like it," he added with the same conviction, staring at her straight in the eye.

    Aries pursed her lips, rendered speechless at his statements. She couldn''t argue with that. How could she argue with the truth? This was what truly made him different from the rest and also terrifying. While everyone wasughing and talking about diplomacy, treaties, and the like, Abel would speak about their lies.

    Everyone''s lies and hypocrisyбн including hers. No exceptions.

    "You''re always so stubborn, darling." Abel caressed her shoulder des with the back of his fingers, recalling the time when he also had an argument with her regarding Rikhill''s downfall. Aries still hadn''t gotten over the habit of romanticizing her actions. That was not his intention when he proposed this revenge idea.

    "Are you trying to change my mind now?"

    "No." He shook his head and stroked her jaw. "What I am saying is, things likeбн people shouldn''t sway you. You had an option; it''s either you and your fallen people or the Maganti бк the entire Maganti. There''s no middle ground, darling. For me, it''s the option between you and Haimirich. I''m here. You''re not dumb to not understand which one I chose."

    "It''s you," he continued while cupping her jaw. "But in case you have to decide in the future between you and me, choose thetter. Always choose yourself, darling. Just like how you will choose yourself over the people of the Maganti Empire. Hmm?"

    The initial fear she felt slowly subsided, reced by this inexplicably unsettling feeling she couldn''t put into words. In the end, Aries frowned while biting her lips, hanging her head low until her forehead was resting on his shoulder.

    "You speak so cruelly," came out a muffled voice while he chuckled, wrapping his limbs around her.

    "Oh, darling, I didn''t mean to upset you in that way." He stroked her back, coaxing her to make her feel slightly better. "Should I make you feel better? I know a way."

 Chapter 186 Interlude

    All the things Abel said had a point. It didn''t necessarily mean he was right, but he had a point, for he spoke as someone who ruled a nation. In his life, he had always made a choice; choices that were a bitter pill to swallow.

    Would it be him and the people of Haimirich? Or another?

    In this world where conqueringnds, plundering other territories'' resources, and considering lives as mere casualties, those options were inevitable. One could argue that peace was also an option. It wasбн but at the same time, peace could only be attained if there was underlying fear. When one was made aware that the consequences would be fatal if rubbed in the wrong way.

    Abel was right.

    Until now, Aries hadn''tpletely let go of her idealistic views and beliefs. Although she had faced the harsh reality, she subconsciously found reasons just to rationalize and clean her hands. What Joaquin and everyone had done to Aries was unforgivable, but this revengeбн was not for the sake of the citizens of the Maganti Empire.

    This revenge was for the people of Rikhill and for Aries. She wasn''t doing the people in thisnd a favor. She was doing this for the sake of revenge, to settle scores, to return the pain she and her people went through.

    By doing that, she was also taking away the people''s future sovereign of thend and would also put the entire Maganti empire into shambles.

    "That''s right," she whispered, gazing up at Gertrude, who was standing behind her while Aries sat on the stool in front of the vanity mirror. "I am doing this for myself and not for anybody else."

    "Your Highness?" Gertrude furrowed her brows, but Aries simply shook her head and waved.

    "Leave the water for the crown prince over there. I''ll exin to him he overslept."

    Gertrude pursed her lips, barely able to recover when she entered this room, only to see the emperor of Haimirich inside with the crown prince of thisnd and Aries. She almost couldn''t move for a moment, if not for her fear of Abel.

    She did as she was told. She cleaned Joaquin, wiping every corner of his body, and changed his clothes while Aries and Abel bathed together. If Gertrude wasn''t aware of the crown princess''s love affair with Abel, she wouldn''t be able to wrap all this around her head.

    "Alright, Your Highness." She bowed, looking around just to make sure that Abel was truly gone. Apparently, when Aries returned, Abel didn''te with her. Aries simply told her not to worry about him since he already snuck outside.

    "Gertrude," called Aries, halting her personal maid''s steps as thetter looked back.

    "Yes, Your Highness?"

    "Don''t get attached to this ce," she warned, gazing at herself in front of the mirror. "Or make friends with anyone in this ce. I would hate it if you feel guilty if one of your friends dies."

    Gertrude smiled politely as she tilted her head down. "Fret not, Your Highness. When you made your ns known to me, I had already known what would be the oue of the pce. My heart belongs to my servitude to Your Highness."<sub> </sub>

    "Good." Aries nodded, watching Gertrude walk away without making a sound. When the faint click of the door reached her ear, she breathed out and closed her eyes.

    Even Gertrude was already prepared. Only Ariesбн who thought she was prepared for the oue, wasn''t. That only shows how the people in Haimirich were determined, just like their emperor.

    No mercy.

    That was the Haimirich way. They gave no mercy to those whom they deemed their enemies. It didn''t matter about other things. It was all a matter of survival, and there was no guilt to thrive and survive.

    Aries stared at her beautiful face in front of the mirror, eyes flickering with bitterness and mockery.

    "They were right," she whispered once again, repeating what she had been saying. "Rikhill failed because we''re all stubborn and had always tried to make peace with everyone. We tried to please the Maganti Empire, and I even had to keep my mouth shut despite hearing them mock my kingбн"

    She slowly turned her head and set her eyes on Joaquin, who was still fast asleep on the bed. Her eyes glinted as her jaw tightened, pushing herself up to approach him. She stopped beside the bed, looking down at him with dead eyes.

    "You didn''t pity my peopleбн" she whispered, embracing all the anger she had held back mildly and letting her heart get engulfed with rage. "бн so why would I pity yours?"

    Her hands balled into a tight fist, grinding her teeth the more she thought about the heart-wrenching memory of everyone''s death. Not just on the battlefield, but also during the executions, and how hernd was plundered off of resources.

    Not one bit did Joaquin show remorse in all those. If anything, heughed at her face while her family''s heads kept leaving their bodies one after another. Aries closed her eyes as she tucked that memory away in a safe ce in her head, a safe yet somewhere within her reach.

    Abel''s words were the reminders she seemed to have forgotten. A wake-up call, reminding her she was no longer the princess of Rikhill, who was a subject to abuse and people''s atrocities. That Ariesбн that woman had died along with her people and then emerged from the dead with a horn, only to be seen in her shadows.

    "No mercy. That''s the Haimirich way," she muttered, sitting on the edge of the bed, eyes on her husband. Aries carefully extended her arms, pressing a finger on his jugr notch with eyes cold and distant. "Wake up, Joaquin. Let''s start over, but this timeбн the Aries way, not Danie."

    <o>,m Aries pressed his jugr like a button, causing him to pop his eyes open at the pain that struck him. The side of her lips curled up, eyes dropping until they were partially closed.</o>

    "Good morning, Joaquin," she greeted, watching him gasp for air as he looked around before checking himself. "What an energy early in the morning."

    She could fake it for as long as she wanted to, butбн there would always be a time when Aries had to take off the mask of deception. She was no longer pure. Her subtle actionsбн were no longer needed since she was certain it was almost the time to pull the strings and make them dance to her tune.

    Aries had to start now and give Abel, her guests of this show, something he would stand up for and p.

 Chapter 187 Who Is In Control?

    "What an energy early in the morning."

    "Youбн" Joaquin snapped his dted eyes at her, studying her strange expression. But Aries simply tilted her head to the side, batting her eyes ever so tenderly.

    "Yes?"

    His mouth opened and closed as he looked around, setting his eyes on the spot where he watched the blood on the floor when he tried to y the assassinst night. There was nothing. Not even a trace of blood, and then at the balcony. Joaquin didn''t think twice about jumping out of the bed, rushing to the balcony only to see it clean as well.

    "Is there something wrong?" asked Aries, causing his back to stiffen as he looked back at the bed she was sitting on. "You overslept, husband. Were you that stressed outбн"

    Aries trailed off, watching the enrage Joaquin marched in her direction. Yet, she did nothing when her back hit the mattress while Joaquin hovered over her, his hand around his neck.

    "You! What did you do to me?" he inquired, eyes bloodshot.

    He believed what happenedst night was real. Although his body wasn''t in pain anymore, his mind could remember the pain Abel inflicted on him. However, despite his tightening grip around her neck, Aries kept her dull expression as she raised both her hands to cup his face.

    "What a beautiful face," she whispered, ignoring the restrictions of air she was inhaling. "What a pleasant sight to behold before death."

    Her lips curled up into a subtle and peaceful smile, epting death with all her heart. Only then did Joaquin realize what he was doing, loosening his grip, as her smile slightly sent a sense of dread down his spine.

    There was no sane person who would smile while being choked, but sheбн was smiling delightfully.

    But s, just before he could pull his body away from her, Aries suddenly held the side of his head and pulled him down.

    "Why, Joaquin? Why did you stop?" she asked with genuine wonder in her eyes. "Kill me. Come on. Do it!" She taunted andughed when he frowned.

    "Have you lost your mind, Circe?"

    "Me?" Aries lifted her head up, eyes still fixed on him. "Are you asking me if I lost my mind when my husband, who I reassured repeatedly, tried to kill me the second he woke up? Your Highness, did you have a bad dream and now venting your fear on me? Just how bad was it? Shall I understand you again?"

    "Orбн should I take this as your refusal for a peaceful marriage?" she added while blinking ever so tenderly. "You should kill me now, Joaquin, otherwise you will regret it."

    Aries smirked as she let him go, lyingfortably on the bed whilst keeping her eyes on him. They stared at each other for a long time, his eyes glinting with malice while her taunting smirk persisted.

    "Tch." In the end, Joaquin simply clicked his tongue as he pushed himself away from the bed. While standing beside the bed, he cast her a quick disdainful look before looking around. He ran his hand through his hair, letting out a deep sigh when he was certainst night''s urrence was all just a dream бк a nightmare.

    ''Did anyone escape the dungeon?'' he wondered, shaking his head to shrug off the thoughts in his mind. He needed time to clear his head. Staying with Circe and thinking of what was going on in her pretty mind was getting in his head.<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin pinched the bridge of his nose as he nced at Aries once again, who didn''t move an inch while nkly staring at the ceiling. He gritted his teeth, knowing he vented his frustration on her again. He wouldn''t usually try to humble himself, but he couldn''t let her stay angry, knowing she might side with Ismael.

    "Circe," he called and sighed, walking back to the bed only to sit on the edge. "Iбн I''mбн"

    Aries arched a brow as she carefully set her sharp eyes on him. "Don''t force yourself, Your Highness. Saying sorry is something not only said carelessly but also twinned with action. Don''t say sorry to me, only to hurt me next time."

    "I didn''t mean to hurt you."

    "It''s alright." She nodded, propping her elbows against the mattress to assist herself up. "I understand that you have a lot of things in your mind."

    "Circe. I''m really sorry. It won''t happen again. I promise." Joaquin sported a remorseful expression, cupping her cheek while brushing it with his thumb. He looked at her straight in the eye, speaking his empty promises without a trace of insincerity.

    Maniptive bastard, she thought, whilst smiling subtly at him like a fool. Aries leaned her cheek against his palm, holding his wrist, keeping her eye contact with him.

    This was what made Abel different from Joaquin. The former wasn''t trying to act righteously. He simply made her realize he yed differently. He doesn''t y the game of the hypocrites, instead, he uncovered it.

    ''Let''s see who maniptes better, husband.'' Her lips stretched broader while Joaquin assisted her to sit upright.

    "Thank you for understanding," he expressed, relieved how he could easily coax his wife with just a few words. Although he was certain this hadn''tpletely quenched her anger, it wasn''t enough reason for her to retaliate.

    Where was this confidenceing from? Well, because at the end of the day, he believed his wife was smart. Therefore, she knew Joaquin was her best bet. In the games of the throne, the game for power, and gaining control, Joaquin had a bigger chance of winning.

    He wasn''t the underdog hereбн was what he believed.

    "As long as you mean this apology." She frowned while he smiled, nodding.

    "I do, and it won''t happen again. I promise," he reassured once again, holding her shoulder as he pulled her into his embrace. He stroked her back, smirking evilly while casting her a side-eye. "Never again."

    Meanwhile, Aries rested her jaw on his shoulder. Her eyes bore no sympathy or anything бк even the usual disgust was absent in her eyes, just coldness.

    "Alright," came out a whisper, smirking.

    She didn''t need cleansingбн she''s far rotten than them. Being bad was already sinful in itself, no matter the reason. However, what made it embarrassing ording to him was trying to justify it. Just like Joaquin and everyone in this ce, they all justified their actions just to make themselves feel better.

    That wasn''t the art of evilness. It was hypocrisy at its finest, and Abel ironically doesn''t condone hypocrisy.

 Chapter 188 So Old-Fashion

    Meanwhileбн

    The hallway was empty, waltzing through it was none other than the emperor of Haimirich. With his hands inteced behind, he carried himself as though he was simply roaming the imperial pce of Haimirich when, in fact, he was in a different ce.

    He was an intruder, to be precise.

    After bathing with Aries and imparting his wisdom as a connoisseur of sins, he casually left through the other exit. So far, he hadn''t met with anyone despite that the Sapphire pce and the other building connected to it wereбн full of servants.

    Not that Abel purposely tried to avoid them. It was more like he had subconsciously taken the route that no one else used. Silly. When Aries herself, who lived in this ce, hadn''t taken these routes, Abel was walking through as if he had been there.

    ''How baffling,'' he thought, humming a lovely tune whilepassing his hand. "I don''t remember walking down this way in the past."

    He looked around, ncing at the paintings hung on the walls. It was some scenic paintings, which he deemed tasteless because they were rather simple for his taste. Abel continued his casual walk, heading in a direction where his feet would take him.

    It was not like he was lost. It was more likeбн he knew where this would lead him, but at the same time, the familiarity of the ce baffled him in a way it bothered him.

    "Did I perhapse to this ce while I was high?" he wondered, thinking that he didn''t have many recollections of the recent years since he had constantly searched for the temporary highs in his ''dull'' life.

    Aries''s dream, that particr dream that left a real impression on him when she was inside that cage and made a conversation with him, made this conclusion in his head solid. Still, that was impossible, he thought. If they meet even before their first meeting at the world summit, he would''ve remembered her if he had seen her.

    "Huh?" he cocked his head to the side, walking towards the nearby window and leaning his side against the jamb, eyes on a few knights walking, arms crossed. Abel squinted his eyes as he hummed, splitting his attention to the sudden idea that shed in his head and his concerns previously.

    ''Now that I think about it, I only gain a little bit of peace months before the world summit, finding the slight pleasure in women and murder.'' He nodded with his lips closed. ''Either way, even if I met her beforehand, changes nothing. She''s mine now whether she likes it or not. I''m still going to do it my way, anyway.''

    Abel stretched his neck as he kept his eyes on the knights walking outside the castle he intruded on that was just near the Sapphire Pce. His smile widened into a devious smirk before pulling his body away from the window, continuing his stride to his initial destination.

    He had done a lot of walking and miraculously didn''t meet anyone on the way. Now he was certain this pce was actually deserted.

    Who would live near the quarters of the crown prince? It wouldn''t be a surprise if Joaquin also owned this castle to extend his personal space. He couldn''t let his enemies live near him; it would be a bother to keep dealing with assassins and spies.

    Soon, Abel reached a more deserted area of the castle. It was strange that in this broad daylight, only the sound of his footsteps could be heard in the seemingly endless hallway. When he made a left turn at the end, he tilted his head to the side.

    Not far away from him were knights guarding a particr door.<sub> </sub>

    ''Ohбн odd,'' he thought, grinning from ear to ear because the more suspicious things appeared to him, the more he wanted to know more. "Let''s see if my instinct are correct and Isaiah''s worries are valid."

    With a bright smile on his face, Abel advanced in the guarding knight''s direction. As he came closer, the knight finally noticed him.

    "Hey, this is a restricted area! You cannote in here!" warned the knight to Abel, but thetter didn''t stop, nor did he slow down. "I said, you can''te in here!"

    Both knights who were guarding the entrance faced the man approaching, standing in an offensive stance, seeing that he wasn''t stopping despite their warnings. However, just as they reached for their sword clung to their hip, they froze, unable to move a muscle.

    "Excuse me," Abel muttered, casually walking past them without casting them a look. "I''m intrigued, so can I take a look?"

    He only set his eyes on them when he was by the door the knights were guarding. Seeing that the knights weren''t moving a muscle, Abel smiled politely.

    "I''ll take that as a yes, then. How nice of you." He chuckled, opening the door only to see an empty study room. But before he closed the door, he looked back and spoke.

    "Thank my darling. It''s your lucky day since I promised her I will not cause any trouble. So keep it a secret for me, will you?" Abel looked at the two knights until they slowly turned and faced him, eyes nk.

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    "Good." He nodded, pleased at their obedience, and closed the door while the knights systematically returned to their post as if nothing happened. They stood in front of the door, standing still, doing what they ought to do like puppets.

    Meanwhile, Abel didn''t pay attention to them as he stood still with the door behind him. He looked around, smirking at how this ce appeared to look normal.

    "What a buffoon," he muttered, approaching the shelf nearby. "If they want to keep something a secret, they shouldn''t make it too obvious by stationing knights outside when this ce should be empty."

    Abel raised a finger, moving it from left to right before it hovered in front of a particr book. cing a finger on top of it, he tipped the book and smirked when he heard a creak.

    "So old-fashion," came out ridicule as he took a few steps back, watching the shelf move and tilting his head only to see a secret passage open up from behind it.

    "I hope there''s no spider and ghost in there."

 Chapter 189 What Was Happening Behind Closed Doors?

    "Your Highness!" Gertrude eximed as soon as she came closer to Aries, who was left sitting in the middle of the bed. Her eyes shook at the handprint around her neck, lips quivering as she hesitatingly sat on the edge of the mattress.

    Aries was staring into nothingness, blinking ever so tenderly.

    "Gertrude," she called, shifting her eyes to Gertrude only to see thetter''s worried face. "Prepare me a dress that isn''t too reserved. Just enough for someone to notice these marks."

    "Your Highnessбн"

    "It''s nothing, Gertrude." Aries kept her cold expression as she looked away. "This won''t kill me."

    "But His Majestyбн"

    "Abel won''t see me for days, so don''t worry."

    Gertrude pursed her lips into a thin line, staring at Aries''s side profile in worry. That wasn''t her real concern, but how Aries recklessly let herself get harmed. But then again, Aries didn''t have that many options.

    "I''ll prepare your dress then." She bowed with a deep exhale, assisting herself out of the bed. As she walked away, Gertrude couldn''t help but look back at Aries when thetter spoke.

    "I just want to go home, Gertrude." Aries kept her eyes on the window as the side of her lips curled up. "Once I settled things in this ce, I will surely rest andze around."

    Her remarks brought a subtle smile to Gertrude''s face as Aries faced the servant. "Don''t worry. I''m not going overboard with my lover sniffing around."

    "Yes, Your Highness."

    With that being said, Gertrude walked away to execute Aries''s orders while thetter watched her back. Aries smacked her lips when the door shut closed, breathing out heavily while gazing at the window. Her brow arched, flinging her legs out of the bed to walk to the balcony.

    Standing on the balcony, Aries looked over the railings and furrowed her brows.

    "How did he sneak in from here?" she wondered, recalling Abel''s answer on where he came from. "Did he lie?"

    It was impossible to jump from the ground to the balcony of her room. Climbing was also ruled out.

    "Now that I think about it, Abel always sneaks in my room even in the marquess''s estate," came out a mumble, leaning her arms against the railings, deep in thought. "And every time, he always says he came from the balcony."

    The more Aries thought about this, her frown grew worse. She didn''t think much about it in the past бк although it sometimes crossed her бк only now did this actually bother her. Even if she say Abel had his way, it was still impossible for him to intrude inside the pce of Maganti easily.

    "I don''t know what to think anymore." She sighed, shaking her head to rearrange her thoughts. "I''ll just ask him once everything is over. I need to finish my assignment in here since it seems he wouldn''t return to Haimirich alone."

    Aries gazed ahead and nodded in understanding, tossing all other thoughts at the back of her head. Still, the questions and curiosity remained in her head.<sub> </sub>

    "It''s not like he can really fly, right?" she whispered.

    ***

    Gertrude returned with three different pieces of dress for her to choose from. Aries simply picked the one that caught her eyes, letting the other servants help her get change, following her daily routine although a bitte for the day.

    Despite Abel''s presence in this ce and where he could be ''hiding'' right now, Aries didn''t allow that to distract her. She simply convinced herself that she would know if they captured Abel.

    So far, she had heard nothing out of the ordinary. The inner pce was still the same, unsuspecting and unaware of Abel''s presence. Aries was relieved about that, thinking that Abel found a good hiding spot. If only she realized sooner that the man wasn''t really the type who would hide his beauty.

    "I really appreciate this visit, ninth sister." Aries smiled at Inez, who was sitting across from her inside the crown princess''s chancery. "I hope you do not mind the sudden invitation."

    "Not at all, Your highness. When I heard you need my help, I rushed in here." Inez returned with a smile.

    "Please. Enjoy the tea I prepared for you." Aries motioned her hand on the coffee table between them where the tea was ced at. "Anyway, I heard that the food storage and the mining area in the east ninth district used to be under your governance before they transferred it to me."

    "That is correct, Your Highness."

    "Apparently, several months ago, a fire broke out that engulfed the food storage in the east ninth district. I read the reports regarding the incident. However, there were things I couldn''t understand, especially the start of the fire," Aries continued, keeping her eyes on Inez as thetter listened in silence. "Do you perhaps have any information that isn''t written in the reports?"

    Inez snapped her eyes as she pondered for a second. "Apparently, despite the investigation, we had conducted, we failed to uncover the cause of the explosion in the east ninth district."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she rubbed her chin lightly.

    "Although I was tasked to help the east ninth district recover the food storage, and this is out of my jurisdiction, it bothers me greatly. Even if I filled up the storage again, there is no telling if another incident like this would take ce," she mumbled solemnly while Inez study the former''s demeanor.

    By the looks of it, Aries was undeniably concerned about this. Inez wasn''t stupid not to get the gist of her underlying concern.

    "Are you thinking this is a retaliation and a sign of an uprising?" she inquired without beating around the bush, watching Aries raise her gaze back at her. Inez let out a shallow breath as she sported a smile. "idents like that weremon urrences that happened every few years across thend. You do not have to worry. The Maganti Empire is peaceful and our people are happy. There''s no other reason for a revolt."

    "Is that soбн?" Aries bit her inner lips and massaged her nape, stretching her neck slightly. The reddish marks around it peeped out of her slightly high cor, causing Inez to furrow her brows. Before the ninth princess could think about it, words already escaped her mouth.

    "Your neckбн"

    Aries slightly froze before she clipped the cor up to hide her neck. "It''s nothing, ninth sister." She forced a wide smile, clearing her throat before changing the subject.

    Inez narrowed her eyes but didn''t dwell on it; even though she couldn''t mistake those handprints as if Aries was strangled. She shouldn''t get bothered by it, knowing Joaquin''s temperament. However, Inez couldn''t deny the building concern from within with just the thought of what was happening behind the closed doors of the Sapphire Pce.

 Chapter 190 Dogman

    The matters in the east ninth district were just an excuse to invite Inez over. The real purpose of the invitation was to cause inner turmoil in the ninth princess. Until now, Aries was certain Inez hadn''t trusted her, but at the same time, their time together was enough to stop Inez from scheming behind her that could endanger Aries''s life.

    Aries chuckled as she held the pen, sitting behind the desk with the thought. Inez didn''t stay too long, but her expression when she left Aries was too obvious. The handprints around her neck bothered the ninth princess. Knowing her, she would surely feel responsible one way or another.

    ''It can be because I am her prey, orбн'' she fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly, smirking as she raised her chin up. ''бн because she now thinks I am someone who can understand her heart.''

    A faint chuckle slipped past her lips once again while she shook her head. Inez was an easy prey.

    Although the ninth princess was a vicious enemy when rubbed in the wrong way. She was a vulnerable woman hidden in a tough shell and Aries had been aiming from within since the beginning, crawling under her skin.

    Knock Knockбн

    The smirk stered on Aries''s face faded when she heard a knock on the door. Turning her attention towards it, she tilted her head before her lips parted.

    "Come in."

    As soon as her orders reached outside the door, it slowly creaked open, revealing Cherry, herdy-in-waiting. The side of Aries''s lips curled up into a warm smile while Cherry made her way inside.

    "Your Highness, the crown prince sent a word and is inviting you to have luncheon with him," she reported politely when she stopped near the desk.

    "Oh?" Aries arched a brow, leaning back at this surprise invitation. "Did he say anything else?"

    "He said he simply wants to make up with the crown princess."

    Aries rocked her head, scrutinizing Cherry''s aura. ''I don''t think that''s the only reason.'' She smiled when herdy-in-waiting raised her gaze.

    "Alright. I''ll finish this document and join the crown prince. For now, send this to the minister of finance." She tapped the stacked documents ced on the corner of the desk.

    Cherry nodded, tilting her head down, and picking up the documents. She kept her silence the whole time until she left the room.

    "Hmmбн" Aries narrowed her eyes, propping her chin on her knuckles. "I have a bad feeling about this. I''m certain he won''t just invite me to share a meal with him in the middle of the day. Her reaction proves that."

    Considering how Aries and Joaquin parted this morning, she was certain he was nning something. The ''drug'' Abel injected into the crown prince''s system was enough to give him a terrible nightmare. Abel told her it was a nightmare anyone would want to wake up from. So, she was certain that experience raised a lot of suspicion about Aries.

    "Wellбн it''s not like it is a big deal if he is suspicious of me," came out a whisper, nodding in agreement. "The more he thinks of me, the better."

    Aries continued to finish the document she was reviewing before joining her beloved crown prince for luncheon. Deep in her heart, she expected Joaquin was nning something. However, what she didn''t expect was that the thing he prepared for her was enough for her to wish he was dead that very second.

    <strong>******</strong><sub> </sub>

    "What do you think, Circe? Do you like my gift?"

    Aries gazed at the person before her. He was standing on his knees, hands on the grass of the west garden of the inner pce where Joaquin arranged their lunch date. He had a rope around his neck like a dog, barely skin and bones. Although there weren''t major fresh bruises on him, she caught the raised scars on the man''s exposed skin.

    "He is someone I caught in my expedition years back. My men trained him properly, so he''s tamed and won''t bite his owner." The side of Joaquin''s lips stretched, studying his wife''s reaction. "I thought of giving him to you to make up with you. Want me to show you some of his tricks?"

    Joaquin proudly tugged the rope he was holding that was connected around the man''s neck. "Bark."

    "Arf! Arf! Arf!"

    Aries''s heart sank, watching the man bark like a tamed dog, sticking his tongue out while Joaquinughed heartily. Yet, she kept her calm surface while watching the man y dead at the crown prince''s behest.

    ''Curtisбн what have they done to you?'' she mentally ground her teeth, knowing this man who used to be a bright young schr in Rikhill.

    This man, Curtis, was a youngd full of dreams. His eyes used to twinkle every time he thought of how he could fight drought and famine with his nts. Everyone used to call him a genius, and he was also Aries''s dearest friend.

    She thought he had died that day. But it seemed Curtis faced a much harsher fate than death. The bright young man was now turned into a human dog to entertain the crown prince.

    "See? He''s someone good to y with." Joaquin faced Aries with a proud smile after showcasing his pet''s tricks. "What do you think about it?"

    "What do I think about it?" came out an icy voice, shifting her sharp eyes at the crown prince. "It''s despicable."

    "Hahбн" he frowned, but then raised a brow when Aries approached Curtis and squatted down.

    "Pets should be treated well, Your Highness. Although they might seem tame, they never forget. You cannot tell when they will bare their teeth on you." Ariesid her palms opened and smiled gently at Curtis. "Taming a petбн you have to capture their heart. In that case, they will cherish you just as muchбн they''d kill for you."

    Curtis was panting with his tongue sticking out, gazing at the palm in front of him before cing his hand on it like a dog. When he raised his head, Aries smiled affectionately.

    "Good boy." She ruffled his hair before lifting her head at Joaquin. "This gift is a surprise, but I appreciate it. I hope he doesn''t disappoint."

    Joaquin locked eyes with her, and there was no trace of deception in her eyes. If anything, she seemed amused, something he didn''t expect, since his n was to see her reaction. Even so, he was pleased.

    "He won''t." He smiled, watching her stand up while he handed the rope to her. "He''s all yours."

    "Thank you," came out in a soft voice while epting the rope, setting her eyes back to Curtis. "I''ll show you what a dogman should be."

 Chapter 191 Theres No Shame In Being A Victim

    Throughout the luncheon, Aries kept her act together and didn''t show the slightest hint that Curtis troubled her. This was the life of the Imperials. They would trample other people and they would still have an appetite to enjoy avish meal.

    ? Sitting inside the sitting room where she was resting after parting with Joaquin, Aries kept her eyes on Curtis, who was kneeling in front of her. She hadn''t spoken a word the second she reached this room and simply stared at Curtis, who was scratching his temple with the back of his hand.

    "Can you remember me?" were the first words that slipped past her lips, but to no avail. Curtis wasn''t responding and was acting like a real animal.

    Her hand balled into a tight fist, jaw tightening as she clenched her teeth. She understood if Curtis lost his mind with what he experienced in this ce, resulting in bing a submissive dog. Aries experienced the same hell, and she could only think of the worse this man went through to survive even if it meant living like a dog.

    "Curtis," she called under her breath, getting off of the settee to squat in front of him. She cupped his face, searching for his eyes before she spoke once again. "Look at me. Don''t you recognize me?"

    Curtis simply looked at her before he stuck his tongue out to lick the back of his hand. Her expression creased as she bit her lower lip, her heart sinking.

    "Curtis!" she shook his shoulder, calling him through her gritted teeth. "Have you really lost your mind? You''re smart. I''m certain you''re simply faking it!"

    Aries shook his shoulder, unable to control her strength until she identally pushed him. Curtis hit his back against the edge of the coffee table, causing him to whimper and tremble in fear. Her mouth fell open, tears swam in her eyes.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered, crawling towards him. When she came close, he lowered his head in fear, curling his frail body into a ball. But Aries ignored this defensive stance as she wrapped her limbs around him.

    "I''m sorry, Curtis." She bit her bottom lip as hard as she could, cradling him in her arms. "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to hurt you."

    She thought the pain Joaquin inflicted on her people had ended on her. She really believed she was thest who had suffered in Joaquin''s hands. How foolish of her. Joaquin was a man who always had an alternative n if the first one didn''t do as expected.

    The only logical thing why Aries never knew about Curtis was because she talked her way out of her own cage, subsequently escaping Joaquin''s clutches and meeting Abel. He probably prepared this surprise before taking her life, but now he used Curtis to uncover her disguise.

    "How dare heбн" Aries''s tears weren''t from pain or pity, its source was anger. She rubbed Curtis'' back gently, but her eyes were zing. "бн I''ll make them pay, Curtis. I''m sorryбн I didn''t know."

    There was a long silence in the sitting room as Aries coaxed Curtis until they both calmed down. After gaining control of her emotions, Aries called for a servant to bring her medicines and ointments for Curtis, which they brought immediately.

    "You''ve done well until now, Curtis." She smiled, squatting on the floor while putting ointment on the scab on his kneecaps. Curtis was behaving well while looking at her kind features and gentle touches. He flinched when her hand sprawled towards him only to receive a gently pat on his head.

    "No one will touch you anymore, I promise." Aries nodded reassuringly, looking him straight in the eye. "So, don''t be afraid anymore, hmm? No one will hurt you anymore for as long as you''re with me."<sub> </sub>

    Although he just stared at her with eyes full of curiosity, Aries kept her smile and would constantly speak with him. The skin on his knees had grown thick with fresh and old wounds. After tending to his knees, Aries took care of his hands.

    His hands used to do miracles in everything he touched. Curtis had this talent for making things work when he get his hands on them or just making them more pleasant in the eye. But now, these hands were covered with callouses with a broken finger and a missing pinky on his right hand.

    "You will be fine." A forced smile dominated her face as she bandaged his hand. "Don''t walk like that anymore, hmm? Don''t use your hands and knees when walking. Otherwise, you will continue on damaging them until you can no longer use them."

    Aries lifted his chin with a finger, locking eyes with him. "I''ll help you stand on your own again, I promise. So, keep your chin up. There is no shame in being a victim."

    Curtis didn''t respond, but hisck of response didn''t sway her motivation to help him. Bringing his sanity back might be impossible, but she was determined to make him live normally.

    Just as Aries stood up, a loud knock from outside reached her ears, followed by a panicking voice. Her brows creased as she ordered the servant toe in.

    "Your Highness!" Aries narrowed her eyes as soon as she saw the paleplexion of the servant. "Something happened in the inner pceбн!"

    Her eyes slowly dted upon listening to the ''bad'' news the servant ryed. Without a second hesitation, Ariesmanded, "tell the servant to bring my pet to my quarters," as she marched towards the door.

    The word she received was enough to rattle anyone who heard it. The servant led Aries on the way until the two of them reached the entrance of the inner pce. Aries stopped from the distance, seeing panicking knights and everyone working in the inner pce flock in front of the entrance of the inner pce.

    Everyone''s eyes were up, causing her gaze to follow where they were looking at. Aries held her breath on instinct upon seeing a decapitated head tied with a rope, swinging like a door chime from the window on the third floor бк the floor where the crown prince''s office was at.

    "Alright everyone, the show''s overбн"

    When the knights told everyone off and someone was already pulling what was hanging over there, Aries snapped her eyes away from the window. However, just as she did, she caught a familiar figure standing out among the crowd. She checked and her brain momentarily went nk.

    There, standing in broad daylight and among the crowd, was Abel, smiling and winking at her before he resumed blending with the noblemen about the incident.

    "бн"

 Chapter 192 The Armored Knight

    Abel reassured Aries he would behave for his "safety." Aries should''ve known that the meaning of "behave" to him was blending in and making friends! It rendered her speechless.

    Who wouldn''t?

    "Your Highness, are you alright?" Ismael''s voice that suddenly came upon her side brought her back to her trance, managing to keep her stoic expression.

    "With a decapitated head hanged right in the entrance of the inner pceбн" Aries raised her chin and shot Ismael a look. "Shouldn''t I be rmed if this meant a breach of security?"

    Ismael shrugged, causing her to arch a brow. "You don''t seem rmed. Was this some sort of normal urrence in the Maganti?" she asked.

    "Of course not. However, this doesn''t affect me. The ones in charge will be affected, not me." He shrugged once again, offering her a smile before his eyes fell on the red marks on her neck. "Nice tattoos."

    Aries clipped her fingers to her cor and pulled it up to cover Joaquin''s handprints around her neck.

    "I appreciate you for checking up on me, but I''ll have to excuse myself." She curtsied, cutting their conversation short since there wasn''t much of anything to do here. Aries already had a suspect who did it, but she couldn''t be certain it was Abel since there were more people who could pull off this stunt to bring terror to everyone.

    However, just as she was about to turn around, she stopped when Ismael spoke.

    "Come to my side." Her brows furrowed at his sudden invitation, locking eyes with him, only to see the solemnity in his eyes. "If you think being fierce is enough, it''s not. There were more things you hadn''t known about your husband. You''ll die even before you know it."

    There was a moment of silence between them before her lips curled up.

    "Such ominous remark to the crown princess isn''t just rude, but I''ll pretend I heard nothing, Your Highness." Aries kept the smile that didn''t reach her eyes, tilting her head down slightly before turning her back on him. As soon as she did, Aries snuck a look at where she had seen Abel and cringed, seeing he was happily chatting with others.

    ''Don''t mind him, Aries. He made more friends than you did in less than a day, so he''ll be fine,'' She told herself as she dragged her feet away.

    Meanwhile, Ismael nced and gazed at her back with an arched brow. He didn''t show any other emotion regarding her indirect refusal, peeling his eyes away from her to the window, and the knight already pulled up the decapitated head that suddenly appeared out of nowhere.

    "Goddamn himбн I heard rumors, but to think it is trueбн" he ground his teeth, making his jaw tighten with eyes full of contempt. Suddenly, while Ismael had his focus on the bloodstained wall under the window, he froze.

    "He''ll kill you."

    Ismael looked back, only to see people passing by. His eyes searched for someone who whispered on his back, but it was as though it was just his imagination. Still, those three words uttered with such maliciousness were etched in his mind.

    Maybe because, deep down, he knew what that meant. Joaquin would me Ismael for this to gain reason to have him executed.

    ''I''ll kill him before he does.'' His expression grew colder as he nced at the window again before he left.

    Little did Ismael know, Abel was watching him from just across him. Despite being surrounded by his new friends, Abel kept his eyes on the third prince''s retreating figure.

    ''What an amusing ce,'' he mentally nodded and then spoke louder to the people around him. "Alright, dearest friends. This humble man had to excuse himself since I still have official business matters to attend to despite this incident."<sub> </sub>

    Abel smiled and chuckled, receiving a ''hrious'' response from these old men whom he charmed with just a few words. How did he do it? Well, Aries was about to find out.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Aries took the longer route back to her office as she wanted to be alone and mull about the incident. But as she walked through the empty hallway, her eyes glinted as her steps slowed down. She had been hearing another footstep behind her, causing all the rms in her head to ring rapidly.

    ''Someone''s following me.'' Her eyes glinted, holding her breath as she continued to walk vigntly.

    The footsteps wereing closer to her, making her look ahead and search for anything she could use as a weapon. What she witnessed just now left this anxiety in her head. She could be next, and she wouldn''t allow that.

    So when Aries passed by a stand, she sprawled her arms towards the vase and, with a loud yell, she was about to smash it at the person walking behind her. However, just before the vase could hit the armored knight, she halted.

    "Wait! Wait! It''s me!" the armored knight raised his hands in panic, causing her brow to knit at the very familiar voice. "Please don''t hit me, Your Highness! It''s me, your ally for life!"

    "Sir Conan?" her eyes dted, cked jaw. There was no way she would mistake this childish and carefree voice.

    "Yes!" Conan, who was wearing armor from head to toe, raised his helm''s visor, grinning from behind it. "The one and only!"

    "бн"

    Aries slowly put down the vase, still holding it. She couldn''t fathom that she would ever see Conan in the Maganti Empire. Even in her wildest imagination, this thought never crossed her.

    "Goodnessбн even with this metal helm, I''m certain if you smashed that vase against it, I''ll lose my hearing!" Conan grumbled while taking off his metal helmet, holding it to his side, and shed her a grin. "Lady A бк I mean, Lady Danie, I missed you!"

    "бн"

    Aries just looked at him in a daze, still hadn''t wrapped her head around this situation. She knew the man behind this armor was Conan, but now that he took it off, she was even more appalled.

    "Huh? Hello?" he waved in front of her. "Are you alright? Are you not happy to see me?"

    "First, it was Abelбн and now you?" came out a mumble, blinking in disbelief. "Who should I expect next? Lord Darkmore? My brother? The entire Haimirich migrating?"

    Conan coughed before he corrected. "Well, not the entire Haimirich, that''s for sure."

    "бн" For a second, Aries opened and closed her mouth like a fish. But when she recovered her voice, she asked. "Not the entire Haimirichбн so, you''re telling me Lord Isaiah and my brother are also here?"

    His whistle and how he averted his eyes were enough to get the answer. Aries pinched the space between her brows before she took a deep breath and exhaled.

    "Oh, my goodnessбн are you kidding me?!"

 Chapter 193 Its Just About Time For The Third Prince

    Aries couldn''t fathom Conan would be crazy enough to ride along with Abel''s whims. No, not just him. But she never consider Dexter would give in to the emperor''s crazy idea; Isaiah was an exception! But the sight before her proved her wrong.

    Standing in front of the window in an unused study, Aries had her eyes on the training grounds for knights not far away and caught Dexter training along with the new recruits'' soldiers of the proud Maganti Empire. Although the marquess dyed his hair a chestnut brown, Aries would never mistake that face!

    "Oh, my godбн" she whispered, holding her head when it throbbed mildly. "He even dyed his hairбн he really came prepared."

    No wonder Abel didn''t think much about Haimirich. He wasn''t the only one who left the empire for another!

    "I told the marquess he should blend in with the schrs of the empire, but he said he wants to see how the knights were trained in this ce." She faced Conan, showing her helpless expression while thetter spoke proudly. "It''s not a bad idea, since the knights in here had a unique style inbat. They wouldn''t win countless wars if there wasn''t something special in their training."

    "Sir Conan, aren''t you a little too happy about this?" she blurted out in disbelief.

    "Huh?"

    "As part of the Curia Regis, you''re quite proud of leaving the empire to another. What are you all even nning? And for goodness'' sake! Stop making it sound like it''s a vacation!"

    Conan cleared his throat while putting his fist in front of his lips. "My apologies, but it is, indeed, my vacation."

    "бн"

    "Lady Aries,e on! His Majesty was driving me insane in Haimirich and was out of control! We didn''t have a choice but to join him before he sets everyone in Haimirich on fire! I mean, even if he wreaks havoc in this ce, they''re not our people!" he eximed, trying to justify his reason. However, Aries arched a brow.

    "What do you mean, he is driving you insane in Haimirich when he didn''t even return?"

    Conan bit his tongue, recalling Abel shouldn''t have reached Haimirich with the short travel journey. Although he didn''t want to lie to Aries, she would just think he was covering for Abel since it was unbelievable in the first ce.

    "I mean, His Majesty left Haimirich without a word. Knowing him, he wouldn''t return to Haimirich without you and I was correct! It was a good call since we arrived in Maganti and caught him going back in here!" he lied through his teeth. "We initially nned to take him back, but you know him. When he decided, he had decided. His Majesty said he will wait for you, so here we are."

    "I didn''t know how many times I called god in a span of minutes." She breathed out, pinching the space between her brows as that exnation made more sense. "Butбн oh, my god. What are these people thinking?"

    "Hehe. Lady Aries, loosen up a bit. We don''t mean harm. I mean, we don''t n on doing anything to spoil your fun. We''re just here as a vacation. Think of it asбн err, we''re simply waiting for you so we can escort you back safely once your business in here is finished?"

    Aries nced at him helplessly. "Seriously? Vacation? Goodnessбн whatever, Sir Conan. It''s not like I can ask you to return at once."

    "I know, right?" his lips stretched from ear to ear until his eyes squinted.

    It took Aries a moment to ept the fact that these people were already in this territory doing whatever the hell they want. It wasn''t truly a bad situation for as long as they wouldn''t get figured out, but she was uncertain what would happen if their disguises were foiled.

    Four men would stand no chance against an entire empire. They wouldn''t survive if they were hunted with torches and pitchforks. Or so what Aries believed.

    If only she knew she didn''t need to worry about the number of enemies, she wouldn''t be in distress. Conan felt sorry for her since he couldn''t reassure her about that, since she wouldn''t believe him, anyway.<sub> </sub>

    "Just one more thing, Sir Conan." Aries huffed after her brief silence. "The incident in the inner pce. It''s not Abel''s doing, right?"

    "You mean the head?" he asked, and she nodded, eyes on him. "No. If that is His Majesty''s doing, they wouldn''t find that in front of the inner pce, but on the throne instead. Also, it''ll not be just a nobody''s head, but the emperor''s."

    There was a sudden chill that crept up her spine at Conan''s answer. "Wellбн that just sounds like him."

    "Lady Aries, were you suspicious of His Majesty? I told you. We''re just here for the fun while you do your own thing. If you need our help, then we''ll happily assist you."

    "That''s very reassuring, Sir Conan." Aries peeled her eyes away from him to the knights jogging around the training grounds. "If it''s not Abel, I wonder if it''s Ismael''s doing?"

    Conan blinked almost innocently. "It''s not."

    "Huh?" this time, her brows creased once again, and faced Conan. "You know who did it?"

    "Of course." He nodded. "Lady Aries, don''t tell me you haven''t figured it out already?"

    Aries went silent momentarily as she averted her eyes to mull over it. She nned to take the longer route back to her office because she wanted to think about this. However, because of Abel''s presence and then Conan, now Dexter training as a recruit, her thoughts were all over the ce.

    If these men''s presence weren''t in the empire, Aries would''ve figured it out. But they distracted her. Still, now that Conan confirmed it wasn''t Abel, that left her with one culprit. That head wouldn''t get past everyone''s eyes if someone who didn''t have control over the pce did it.

    When her eyes glinted and set them back to Conan, his brows rose to give her a knowing look. "Figured it out already?"

    "Damn itбн" she whispered and closed her eyes. "I didn''t think he will entrap Ismael this soon."

    "Well, the crown prince had let the third prince linger around for so long. It''s just about time to dispose of his toughest opponent." He shrugged. "What are you going to do about it?"

    Aries nced at him before her eyes sharpened upon setting her eyes ahead. "Proceed with the n." Her answer brought a wide grin to his face.

    "Then should we help you?!" he suggested excitedly, making Aries question if she had truly known Conan or not. Where did the distressed Conan go? He was too carefree in this ce.

    "Well, I might need some help since it''s more convenient that way instead of doing all the manual work." Aries shook her head when Conan pped. "Stop being so happy about it, Sir Conan. You''re scaring me."

    "Hehe. It''s just that we hate everyone in this ce for what they had done to our family."

    Aries''s breath hitched as she slowly set her eyes back to Conan''s side profile. He was still smiling, looking down at the training grounds, but his remarks left this warm feeling in her heart. It might sound wrong and vicious, but the remarks that left his lips were reassuring in their own way.

    "Thanks," she whispered, bearing the same contempt in her eyes as she gazed at the knights. "Good to see you, by the way."

 Chapter 194 Therapy

    Aries stayed with Conan for a bit but didn''t stay for long since people would start looking for her. She ended the day like usual, working on the task she ought to give attention to, and then left to the Sapphire Pce. Even though she didn''t see Joaquin throughout the day, Aries was aware of the current plight in the inner pce and pretended to not get affected by it.

    "Wee back, Your Highness." Gertrude weed her back with a polite bow, along with the servants, as soon as Aries returned. Aries waved, and that was Gertrude''s cue to follow her as she waltzed through the hallway leading to her room.

    "I asked someone to take my pet in here. Where is he?" Aries inquired without taking her eyes off of the hallway.

    "He''s in the room next to Your Highness."

    Aries nodded at Gertrude''s response. "Take me to him. I''d like to pet him after a long day of work."

    "Yes, your highness. This way, please."

    With that being said, Gertrude led Aries along the way while the other servants followed from behind. When they reached the room near Aries, she nced at the servants behind but said nothing. Instead, she let Gertrude open the door for her before she headed in.

    As soon as she stepped foot inside, her expression sharpened. Curtis was put in a small cage in the corner of the room.

    "I will let him get out бк"

    "No need, Gertrude. Stay there and don''t let anyone in." Aries didn''t even cast Gertrude a look as she sauntered towards the cage.

    This cage reminded her of the cage they used to lock her in, causing her heart to tighten, but not enough to stop her from functioning altogether. If anything, it only ignited her determination to save Curtis.

    Squatting down right outside the cage, Aries smiled and lowered her head to see Curtis. He was all balled up, trying to fit into this small cage perfectly. By the looks of it, Curtis was already used to this cage that he was rather cozy inside.

    "Hello. I''m back," she whispered, catching Curtis'' attention. "I''m sorry they put you back inside here. Come out and share tea with me."

    Aries opened the door, which wasn''t even locked, yet Curtis didn''t even try to escape. A slight bitterness flickered in her eyes, but she kept the forced smile on her face as she held her hand out.

    "Let''s go, Curtis."

    Curtis looked at her without a word and nced at her hand before crawling his way out. As soon as he came close to her hand, he poked his head against her palm and then looked up.

    "I''m happy to see you too, Curtis." She smiled, cupping his cheek and brushing it with her thumb. "But what did I tell you? Don''t crawl anymore, right? Can you stand up properly?"

    Since he wasn''t responding anymore, Aries held his arms and tried to assist him to stand up so he could walk on his feet. However, as she did, Curtis clutched her slender arms and trembled, subsequently falling to his knees and scratching her arm.

    <strong>THUD!</strong><sub> </sub>

    "Your Highness!" Gertrude yelled on instinct, seeing the scratch on Aries''s arms. However, just as she took a step, her breath hitched, and she froze at the re she received from Aries.

    Aries peeled her eyes away from her and then back to Curtis, only to see terror clouding his features. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, squatting down once again.

    "It''s alright," she reassured with a smile. "I''m not angry. Come, let''s try again, hmm?"

    This time, Curtis was reluctant to approach her again, seeing the red scratch marks across her arms. However, she crooked her fingers and waited for him patiently. So he hesitatingly crawled towards her once again.

    Her eyes softened, holding his arm once again. "Don''t be afraid to try, alright? I''ll be here every step of the way and no matter how many times you fall." She encouraged in a soft voice, assisting him up, but to no avail.

    Curtis had lived by crawling like an animal, so walking like normal humans had be a struggle for him. But Aries was determined to help him. She had time, and she didn''t stay in her office overtime because she wanted to spare Curtis some time to help him.

    They tried and tried, standing up, only to slump back down on the floor with a thud. As they did, the scratches on her arms increased. Gertrude, who was witnessing this, couldn''t help but cover her lips, holding her breath, feeling sorry for the both of them.

    Even though Aries didn''t disclose her rtionship with Curtis, she wasn''t slow-witted to conclude that this man, who arrived in a cage around lunch, was someone close to Aries''s heart. It was despicable. Gertrude already thought how despicable this ce was to condone such an inhumane deed to a human being, but watching this situation unfold, she couldn''t help but think of all the worst things Aries endured in this ce.

    If this young man named Curtis had turned like this, just what kind of hell did Aries endure? It was already a miracle Aries was saneбн or was she? Either way, this was slowly breaking Gertrude''s heart as tears shone in her eyes.

    "That''s rightбн you''re doing well, Curtis." Aries cheered in the same patient tone, helping Curtis for the umpteenth time. "You''re doing good. We''re almost there."

    Her arms trembled along with his grip, watching Curtis straighten his knees with great difficulty. Her eyes glistened with anticipation, while Gertrude cheered for the two of them in silence.

    "Almostбн almostбн" she trailed off and caught Curtis by his waist when his knees almost gave way, holding him still to her side with a proud smile on her face. "You did great, Curtis. That''s enough for the day."

    Curtis simply held on to her, with sweats breaking out of his forehead and back. Because of his lean and almost malnourished body, it wasn''t a vigorous task to carry him by his waist. Gertrude also helped until both Aries and Curtis sat on the long settee.

    "I''m so proud of you, Curtis." Aries ruffled his hair as he sat down properly for the first time in a long time. She could see the genuine wonder and slight difort he was feeling while sitting up, but she ignored it. Letting him crouch like usual wouldn''t help him.

    "Gertrude." Aries breathed out, withdrawing her hand from Curtis'' head as she set her attention on Gertrude. This time, however, her soft expression slowly faded, reced by sharpness and coldness. "Bring Curtis some snacks бк healthy snacks he can enjoy andбн bring that cage in the garden."

    "Yes, Your Highness." Gertrude''s response was quick, knowing just the sight of that cage would only bring pain and terrible memories, not just to Curtis but to Aries as well. But right before she could execute the order, Aries spoke once again.

    "And gathered everyone, servants and knights, in the garden, including those who delivered Curtis in the Sapphire Pce." Gertrude subconsciously held her breath, sensing the murderous intent emanating from Aries''s back like a silent scream. "Anyone who refused this order will be punished ordingly."

    "Ye бк yes, Your Highness." She stammered, having this gut feeling things would be bloody tonight, and Gertrude, for the first time, although terrified of Aries, wasn''t scared for her.

 Chapter 195 The Gathering In The Garden

    Everyone gathered in the beautiful garden of the Sapphire Pce at the crown princess''s behest. The confusion stered on everyone''s ces was evident, but they kept their puzzled murmurings amongst themselves like bees.

    Gertrude looked at the garden from the window of the room Curtis was kept and sighed. She then turned to Curtis, who hadn''t touched the snacks she prepared for him.

    "Her Highness asked you to enjoy this, sir Curtis," she spoke when she approached him, stopping on the side of the settee he was sitting on. Curtis gazed at her and blinked, so she offered a kind smile.

    "Shall I help you with the food?" she inquired and waited for a few seconds beforeing closer to the table. "Her Highness specifically ordered you to get enough nutrition to recover your strength."

    Gertrude served him a te and ced some sweets since Aries said he had a sweet tooth. A warm smile dominated her face, gazing at his curious eyes.

    "Are you worried about her highness?" she asked and smiled wider because his eyes were enough to tell her he was. "Don''t worry about her highness. She needs to address an important matter, but she will surely return afterward. She''ll be very pleased if she knew you''ve eaten well."

    With that being said, Gertrude motioned her hand to the te she served him. However, when Curtis leaned his face forward to eat, she stopped him and reached for his arm.

    "Hands." She took the fork and handed it to him whilst keeping her smile. "Here, sir Curtis. I know it is hard to adjust, but her highness promised to help you. Don''t be afraid anymore, sir."

    Her eyes softened, suppressing herself from bawling her eyes at this man''s unfortunate life. "Please."

    Curtis nced at the fork she handed him, hand trembling as he held it as if he was holding a heavy metal. Still, with her help, Curtis ate while using his hand for the first time after a very long time.

    While the atmosphere in this room was calm, the garden was nketed with thick air as soon as Aries arrived.

    Standing in front of the servants lined up properly in front of her, she nced at everyone. Not only the servants directly serving the crown princess, but every important individual working in the Sapphire pce was also present: knights, butlers, and the head maids.

    In other words, there were a lot of them, despite that she did not summon the lower servants. Still, these people who held minor power over the other servants were enough. Hence, they were the only ones she had to talk to instead of summoning tens of hundreds of servants working in the pce.

    "I had gathered you all to rify one thing." Those were the words that broke the sniffling silence building up around them, keeping her fierce countenance. "I am the crown princess and the Sapphire pce is under my authority. In other words, everything in this ce is mine."

    Her eyes glossed over their faces, not beating around the bush as she wanted to keep it short to have more time to apany Curtis.

    "Today, my husband, the crown prince, gifted me a valuable pet, which I would like to cherish to show my sincerity to his benevolence. Howeverбн" she trailed off as a glint flickered in her eyes. "бн I came back only to find him locked in a cage, resulting in sullying my mood."

    Aries paused to let her words sink into them while it increased the building tension around.

    "Who delivered him, and why did everyone overlook this matter?" she asked, setting her eyes at the head butler of the pce. "You''ve all served me for over a month now. Thus, you should''ve known my preferences by now. But I am giving you a chance to exin."

    "Your Highness, we''re simply doing what we are told."

    "And what sort of order did you receive?" her response to the head butler was quick, tilting her head to the side.<sub> </sub>

    "Thatбн that you have a pet we must take care of."

    "That''s right." Aries rocked her head, ncing at the empty cage where Curtis was kept. "I gave out an order to take my pet to my ce so I can pet him after a long day of work. However, I remember stressing that he must be taken care of. So, at which angle, in locking him in this small cage is part of being cared for properly?"

    Silenceбн

    Every servant hung their head low, sensing that her mood kept growing worse, venting her anger solely for the ''unpleasant'' sight that weed her. Meanwhile, knights who stood on the side kept their chins up. Until now, Aries was quiet and didn''t interact with them aside from her personal maid, Gertrude.

    Still, every one of them was aware of Joaquin''s affection for the crown princess. The crown prince only missed a few nights in her room since their wedding night, indicating she was favored and mustn''t be taken lightly.

    "No one is speaking, huh?" she chuckled with her lips closed, raising her chin up. "Alright, then. If you don''t have anything to say, tell me who locked him in this cage."

    Her brow arched as she looked around, waiting for someone toe forth. When she thought no one wanted to take the me, two knights came forward.

    "It is I who received the order, and delivered His Highness'' gift, Your Highness," confessed the knight bravely, keeping his proud front, followed by the other knight, and said almost the exact same thing.

    "I seeбн" Aries rocked her head while darting her eyes between them. "Then, what are you waiting for?" she asked, tilting her head and watching them furrow their brows.

    "Your negligence to my orders is something I called beingzy. How will you protect me and the royalty, if you simply ept and execute every order without using your head?" she added, batting her eyes almost innocently. "Strip and get inside this cage."

    "Your Highness!" this time, the head butler gasped and before he could realize it, words already left his lips. "You can''t do that! The crown prince will surelyбк"

    "The crown princeбн" she cut him off, setting her eyes to the brave head butler. Aries smirked as she nced at the nearby servant, and called. "You."

    The servant who suddenly had her attention flinched. "Ye бк yes, your highness?"

    "Tell the crown prince I am disciplining two of his soldiers. However, the head butler is challenging my authority. Therefore, he better assigns a new one since the position will be vacant," Aries ordered without a second hesitation, ncing at the head butler, whoseplexion turned ashen. "Do it now."

    "Ye бк yes, your highness," the servant stammered, hands trembling and nearly tripped when she walked away. But before she could take her fifth step, the butler spoke in panic.

    "Your Highness, I misspoke! I didn''t mean to challenge your authority! Please forgive me, just this once!" the butler bowed deeply, but when he raised his head, his heart sank. Aries was simply staring at him with an arched brow, tilting her head, hinting him bowing wasn''t enough to appease her.

    Hence, with shaking eyes, the head butler slowly went down to his knees. "Pleaseбн Your Highness. Forgive me just this once," came out a desperate voice, lowering his head until his forehead touched the grass.

    "Hahбн the audacity." Yet, her response was a mere ridiculing smirk.

 Chapter 196 Human Rights... Was There Such A Thing?

    "Pleaseбн Your Highness. Forgive me just this once."

    Everyone who was witnessing this proud butler who had been in charge in the Sapphire pce, and was trusted by the crown prince, kowtow brought mixed emotions in their hearts. Some figured this was the crown princess practicing her authority, while others were looking forward to the butler''s disposal. After all, this butler had an inted ego just because the crown prince favored him.

    Joaquin was right. Everyone in this ce had ulterior motives. They all had many things inmon, and one of them was their ambition to climb up thedder of power. This made it very easy for her since she knew some of them would stay away from her, while others would try to curry favor with her.

    Either way, Aries was unafraid of making more enemies, since she already considered the entire Maganti as her enemy. These peopleбн she wouldn''t allow them to look down on Curtis and had decided she would never give them a chance to even think about venting their anger on Curtis after this incident.

    "Hahбн the audacity." She smirked, ncing up at the mixed expressions in front of her.

    After a few seconds, she set her eyes towards the servant, whom she ordered to ry a word to the crown prince, seeing thetter jolt when she locked eyes with her.

    "Stay there while I reconsider my decision about the disposal of the head butler," Aries uttered, not showing any sign she nned on letting the head butler raise his head. Curtis had been crawling all these years to the point that standing up on his own was a struggle.

    This was nothing.

    "Maybe, if these two will manage to appease me." She then shifted her attention to the knights. "The head butler is now kowtowing because he tried to defend and justified your actions by mentioning the crown prince, indirectly questioning my authority as the crown princess. Will you let him stay like this when it''s your fault that he put his position at stake and is now being punished for it?"

    Aries cocked her head to the side, batting her eyes ever so tenderly. She watched the two knights, who were initially sporting a proud front, slowly break their brave countenance. Their faces shed in red as they nced at the small cage, knowing that going inside that cage, and in front of everyone, was unspeakable.

    As proud knights under the crown prince, how could they ept this humiliation? They wouldn''t, and Aries knew that well. They wouldn''t ept this dishonor easily. No one wanted to be humiliated; they had watched the butler kowtow without batting an eye, but once the attention was on them, their tone changed.

    "Don''t make me repeat myself. Get in the cage," she stressed, unsmiling. "I don''t care if you strip or keep your armors, but I don''t think it will befortable if you wear it while inside."

    "Your Highness." The knight who proudly stepped forward hung his head low. "As a proud knight of the Maganti Empire, I had taken an oath to live and die for the empire. However, this offense and punishment are unjust and not enough to dishonor a knight. Therefore, I refuse."

    "I am a knight of the crown prince, and wouldn''t ept such humiliation without proper justice. We had our rights to refuse as knights." The other one backed up solemnly, trying to sound polite despite their tant refusal to her whimsical orders.

    Ariesughed. "Rights? As knights? Are you saying those who joined the knighthood are the only ones who had human rights?"

    Their silence was the response she received, but she didn''t dwell on it as she nodded in understanding. Once again, Aries turned her attention to everyone, causing their back to stiffen under her gaze.

    "So, the butlers, the head maids, and the lower servants didn''t have human rights since they were not knights?" she asked in a ridiculing tone, chuckling with her lips closed, before ncing at the other knights, who were standing with those two knights in question. "Very well. Since you two think that way, I order the rest of the knighthood to execute everyone standing in this very garden."

    Her orders, although spoken in a mild tone, were akin to a horn being blown right in front of everyone''s ears. She didn''t need to yell. Her words were enough to temporarily deafen those who heard her.

    "Your Highness, please have mercy on us!" the head maid, who was almost d Aries''s attention wasn''t on her, dropped to her knees and held her hand in front of her. "Please, please, please, do not kill us!"<sub> </sub>

    Everyone followed her pleading, descending to their knees, begging for mercy. Even though not a single knight took action just yet, they were already scared because of what happened to the head butler. It wasn''t a secret that all of them were pawns who could be reced anytime. There were tens of thousands of servants working in the imperial pce who could rece all of them as if nothing happened.

    As their pleading grew louder, filling up the vast expanse, Aries was unfazed. She nced at the knights, tilting her head to the side.

    "What? Would you also tell me you only listen to the crown prince''s words and not mine?" she queried tonelessly. "I hope you''re all prepared for the consequences once my husband hears about this incident."

    "Your Highness!" the servants called in unison, knowing the crown prince favored Aries. With these meager numbers, Joaquin wouldn''t bat an eye since it wouldn''t affect the empire that much.

    The knights had to make a choice, and it wasn''t that long before they wielded their swords. Unlike those two knights who were foolish enough to speak so tantly to the crown princess, everyone was aware of Aries'' disposition and Joaquin''s temperament.

    Although the crown prince took care of his soldiers бк the reason the knighthood regarded him with the highest respect бк they were also aware Joaquin was the type to sacrifice a hundred knights for the "greater" cause. If Joaquin wanted to keep his wife happy, sacrificing this many lives would beбн worth it. Cruel as it may, but that was the harsh reality for everyone.

    Seeing the knights draw their swords, the servants, kneeling and pleading for their life, looked at Aries in terror. They were all dead, and their only way to survive was to plead and plead until she changed her mind. All they could hope was that they were still alive once she changed her mind.

    "Your highness, please have mercy on us!" were the words Aries had been hearing, but she simply studied her fingernails indifferently while the knights approached the servants.

    "Your Highness!!!" yelled the servant before he choked as soon as he felt the cold de on his throat. Fortunately, before the knights could start slitting their throats andmitting mass murder, Aries held her hand up, stopping everyone.

    As the knights halted, the whimpering continued, albeit their begging wasn''t as loud, in fear that the des that were right in front of their throat would identally slice through their skin. Aries let out a shallow breath, not a bit affected by their situation, as he massaged her temple.

    "Goodnessбн why are you all so loud? If you''re questioning my authority, you should take responsibility and be prepared for the consequences," she muttered, rolling her eyes before darting them between the poor servants, the knights standing behind them, and then the two knights whose expressions were unreadable.

    They probably didn''t expect theirrades to listen to her orders and take her side. How foolish. This was what Aries meant when she said these two didn''t use their heads. The rest of the knights understood lives here were just numbers and their deaths бк be it honorable or not бк were simply called casualties.

    "I had stayed quiet since my arrival in the empire. However, it seems living silently also put my authority at risk." Aries nced at her fingers nonchntly, pondering the situation. She smirked when an idea crossed her head.

    "Alright. Since most of you think I do not have the right and authority to discipline you people, then I''ll hand you equal authority about this situation. I''ll be giving you all a fairground." She smiled and held her hand behind her. "Unlike these two who think they''re the only ones who deserved human rights, I will be fair."

    "Should I punish them? These two, who only cared for their well-being? Or you, who were simply dragged into this situation because of their negligence?" Aries tilted her head to the side, raising both her brows as she let them decide.

    "You decide; the majority wins. That''s the rule."

    As soon as thest syble escaped her mouth, everyone felt their heart sink as they looked at each other with eyes full of dread. The side of her lips curled up into a wicked smirk when everyone''s eyes бк including the other knights бк fixated on the two knights.

    "I guess you''re finally on the same page as I do." Sheughed and as if to spite them, she added. "Don''t worry. The crown prince will surely hear about this incident once he visits my room tonight."

 Chapter 197 A Victim Never Forgets The Face Of Her Offender

    "Your Highness, we can''t fit in here!"

    Aries looked at the two knights with a dull expression, trying to talk their way out when everyone in the garden had already decided. Even the other knights had urged the two to acknowledge their punishment.

    "If you can''t fit, what are we going to do? Should we cut your limbs and keep your torso just so the two of you can fit?" she cocked her head to the side, batting her eyes ever so tenderly.

    Her cruel suggestion instantly caused theirplexion to turn ashen, gazing at her in disbelief. But she never showed the slightest pity for them. Of course, Aries was aware they wouldn''t fit. Even someone like her had to struggle when kept in a cage that was almost had the same size as this. Let alone lock the two perfectly healthy men.

    "You." She nced at the knight her firstid on. "Help these two so they stop wasting my time."

    "Ye бк yes." The knight bowed slightly before marching toward his colleague. Using the handle of his sword, he poked the knight''s back, while saying, "get in and stop wasting everyone''s time!"

    The knight ground his teeth, eyes bloodshot, as he red at everyone. With his colleague''spulsion, the two knights dragged their feet towards the cage of humiliation.

    They wouldn''t fit; it was impossible. However, since Aries was adamant, they had no choice but to do the impossible.

    Everyone held their breath as they watched the first knight reluctantly get into the cage with great difficulty. His feet were still outside, and he had to crawl and curl his body just to fit in. When he managed, everyone already knew there was no way that the other one would fit. There was no space left.

    However, when they nced at Aries, her brows rose as she jerked her chin. A hint that the other person must find his way to fit in. Some of the servants and knights were relieved that this wasn''t happening to them. Others could only think of how cruel, brutal, and unreasonable the crown princess was.

    "Your Highnessбн" the knight who should also get in the cage looked at her with dread stered across his face. "бн I can''tбн"

    He trailed off when Aries nced at the other knight and beckoned. "Help him fit in."

    "Your Highness!" yelled the knight, but the second he did, the screeching sound of metal being drawn resounded behind him. He froze, and before he knew it, a shriek escaped his mouth at the striking pain in his ankle.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    "Ahhh!!" the dreadful scream of the knight as he rolled on the grass brought nothing but terror to those who had witnessed how the other knight mercilessly slit his ankle. And yet, Aries simply looked at him coldly.<sub> </sub>

    "He''s too loud. Drag him in," shemanded without remorse, ncing at the knight who held his bloodstained sword while gazing down at his colleague. Thetter looked at her, revealing his crumpled face before clenching his teeth and dragging the knight inside the cage. But s, only the head fit in while the rest of his body was outside the cage.

    "Your Highness." The knight who was dragging the man inside the cage gazed up at the crown princess, only to see her unsmiling countenance. "It''s impossible for him toбн"

    He trailed off when she quirked a brow. That second, everyone understood what she truly meant in her previous remarks.

    "He can." Her voice was still soft and elegant, which sounded pleasant in the ear, but the chill that sent to everyone''s spine overwhelmed the tone of her voice. "I didn''t say he should get in alive. If you dismembered him, he should fit right in, correct?"

    "Your Highness!" this time, the man who was gritting his teeth after getting his ankle severed turned his head in her direction. Not just him, but also the knight who assaulted him moments ago.

    Just how cruel could she even get? Was that her n all along? That was why she was adamant the two of them get in the cage? Wasn''t this too much venting? Just because the sight of her new pet sullied her mood?

    Everyone gazed at her with terror, cked jaw. The head butler, who was still kowtowing, even felt relieved that this was the only punishment he received.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips as she shook her head lightly. Aries then sauntered in their direction, squatting down on the side of the cage. As she lowered her head, her unapologetic eyes locked instantly with the knight. She nced at the other knight who got in first, seeing his nk expression, either relieved he got in first or frightened with just the thought of getting caged with his colleague''s dismembered body.

    "Youбн" Her eyes once again fell on the knight while the corner of her lips curled up. There was no mistaking it, she thought.

    ''Those who were wrongedбн never forget the face of her offender. No matter how many they were, she will never forget their faces.'' Her eyelids dropped until they were partially closed, remembering this man''s face now that she looked at him up close. Although she didn''t expect it when she came in here at first, she pressed on this matter to get this man punished in the cruelest way possible.

    After all, this knight, whose ego inted so much just because Joaquin favored him, was one of them. He was one of those people who took advantage of Aries without Joaquin''s knowledge. Not only the guest Joaquin brought in were the only people who used her. Some knightsбн just like this one, who used to be in charge of Joaquin''s toys, also had his fair share of ''fun,'' just because they thought Joaquin was tired of them.

    It wouldn''t be surprising if this man also had "fun" with Curtis. They were animals d in human skin, and doing the most despicable deed would surprise no one.

    "How does it feel?" Her voice was only above a whisper. "That this faceбн is thest thing you''ll see before death?"

 Chapter 198 Enjoying The Show On The Sidelines

    "That this faceбн is thest thing you''ll see before death?"

    The knight''s eyes dted as he held his breath while realization dawned on him. His mouth opened and closed, but he had lost the voice to speak.

    She scoffed. "I know. It''s shocked you to silence. Don''t worry, it''s still a beautiful sight to behold before your impending doom. You''re wee."

    A smile reced her smirk, pushing herself up to stand and face everyone. She nced at everyone, keeping her chin up.

    "I hope no one forgets this incident and will stand as a reminder of who is in charge of this ce," she remarked slowly so everyone could follow. "Everything that is mine should be taken care of, even if it''s a mere pebble. Mine is mine and no one else touches it without care. Be thankful this incident would only be known as the crown princess disciplining her people, and not as the night of the massacre in the Sapphire pce."

    She smirked when their breath hitched at herst sentence. She nced at the knight, who wielded a sword for her.

    "From now on, you''ll be in charge of the knights in the Sapphire Pce. After locking these two, make sure to follow the procedure of being the captain," she muttered without a second hesitation, causing the knight to look at her in shock, but this time not out of dread. "Do not disappoint me."

    It only took a few seconds before the knight bowed, cing his fist across his chest at the opportunity that opened up for him. This sacrificeбн his lips curled up for a split second as his eyes shimmered with wicked ambition.

    "Yes, Your Highness. I will make sure you will never regret this decision."

    "I hope you don''t." She smirked, sensing the change of tone of the knight, which was enough to turn anyone''s stomach. With the reward within his reach, he seemed more thrilled to dismember his colleague to benefit himself. It had always been this way in this ce.

    "As for the head butlerбн stay kneeling there until I said so." She shifted her attention to the kowtowing butler before she looked around. She almostughed when all the other butlers looked at her in anticipation, suppressing their desire to raise their hands to volunteer for the vacant position.

    "I''ll decide tomorrow." She smirked, ignoring the slight disappointment in their eyes. "Remember, I, the crown princess, take care of her people. However, never touch my bottom line for I can be the cruelest person you''ll ever meet in your life. I hope today''s incident will be the proof of that."

    Aries looked across the crowd before she rocked her head. "That''s all for today. Return to your post." She waved indifferently before facing the knight.

    "Finish him somewhere else," were the words he told the knight before pivoting on her heel and walking away. Her eyes glinted as she left the garden, and when she was by the entrance of the pce, she heard the piercing scream of the knight as he came face to face with death.

    ''This is just the beginning, Joaquin. I''ll hunt you all down one by oneбн starting from the bottom.''

    As Aries walked away, everyone could only stare at her back nkly. Until they were summoned to this beautiful garden of the pce, every single one of them was living normally. They didn''t have any idea things would escte to this extent.

    Now, aside from the newfound fear they bore for Aries, everyone came to one conclusion. Aries was someone they shouldn''t offend. She fit perfectly in the pce. Worse, even. Her mood was essential and with one word from her, they might lose their life.

    "Ahhh!!!" the sudden scream of the knight as the newly appointed captain mercilessly dragged him out of the cage brought everyone back to the trance. When their eyes fell on the knight, now a captain, they swallowed, seeing the vicious sneer on his face.

    "Men!" the knight straightened his back and nced at the other knights. "Your heard her highness. Drag him somewhere else so we can preserve the beauty of the garden."

    "Yes, sir!"

    His lips stretched from ear to ear at his new position brought this confidence. He nced at the knights, who used to gloat in front of them, and smirk.

    "That''s what you get for not knowing where you stand." He spat at his face, but thetter was already too shocked that he didn''t even retaliate when they dragged him to his death.<sub> </sub>

    Seeing this, the servants forced their trembling knees to also depart the garden. No one even cast the kowtowing butler a nce as they all left. Although the majority were still affected with their knees almost giving away, there were others who went on as if nothing happened, chatting about who could be the next butler.

    Their conversation slowly affected others and it didn''t take long when the fear in their eyes was reced with fire. Another realization struck everyone, especially those who were underdogs.

    They had the chance to rise to power. All they needed to do was make the crown princess happy.

    Meanwhile, those who already held the little power the others were drooling for could not help but feel the anxiety prickle under their skin. In a way, their fear gradually shifted inpeting with one another. As mentioned, Aries knew the people in this ce quite too well, which made it easy for her.

    Just like now, the attention to her shifted to this new ''priority.'' They wouldn''t turn their back on her. Aries simply established her position, whilst giving them a reason to get busy since not a single one of them couldn''t let their guards down.

    It was almost fascinating how the crown princess made it look like it was about her. When no one even noticed that it was about them bing greedy and distracted by the power and position ced right within their reach.

    <strong>***</strong>

    Abel, who was sitting on the roof of the pce situated near the Sapphire pce, and watching from beginning to end, smirked.

    "Human greed is always fascinating. Just show them the cake, and everyone wants a piece." Heughed with his lips closed, proud of how Aries handled the situation well, and how she had begun using her power as the crown princess. He then cocked his head to the side, and his eyesnded on the young man sitting right next to him.

    "What do you think about the show, Morro?" he asked, waiting for the young man to look back at him.

    "They had iting." The young man, whose razor teeth showed, answered, sporting an empty expression. His deep voice didn''t match his youthful face. "You''re having fun, Your Majesty."

    "Of course." Abel nodded as he set his eyes back on the garden, far away from his vantage point. "If she didn''t do it, I will do it. Although it''ll be better to watch every single one of them dig their own grave and voluntarily lie in it."

    "Your Majesty, why did you send Lady Aries to this ce?"

    Abel hummed a tune with his lips closed. "To make peace with the past. They won''t stop hunting her down if all those who wronged her still exist under the same sky."

    "I thinkбн it''s you who want to make peace with her past." He smiled when Morro pointed out without a second hesitation. "They bothered you."

    "Of course." Abel didn''t deny it and cast the young man a nce. "I want Aries, and I can''t stand that this ce had a piece of her. I am angry, Morro. I practically forgot what anger feels until I watched Aries'' recurring nightmares."

    "You love her?" asked Morro, out of nowhere with the same tone, staring at Abel''s smirk.

    "You better hide before Isaiah catches you and turns you into a bird. He''s close."

    Morro frowned at Abel''s reply and stayed silent, sensing Isaiah''s approaching presence. "I''ll eat that person''s eye."

    "Eat well and take care of your deteriorating eyesight." Abel smiled as he watched Morro stand up, keeping his attention to the garden where the cage was still in sight and the butler still kowtowing. When Morro jumped out of the roof, Abel whispered.

    "This ce is... disturbingly fascinating. That crown prince... it''s such a shame you touched my darling. You could''ve been a great addition to my forever frenemies."

 Chapter 199 [Bonus Chapter]Bad Apple (Thanks For The 50 GT)

    Meanwhileбн

    "So that''s what happenedбн?" Joaquin nodded after hearing the report about the incident in the Sapphire Pce. Word was fast to travel, and it had only been minutes since the incident ended, but it already reached the crown prince''s ears.

    "Your Highness, you can''t let the crown princess do what she wants. Although it was no surprise she would pull off something like this, the knights might have second thoughts about your authority," said Hernan, Joaquin''s aide, while the crown prince was sitting on the armchair in his chancery.

    Joaquin was leaning back leisurely, elbow on the armrest, fingers curling. He nced at Hernan, who stood to the side indifferently.

    "I believe I gained my soldier''s respect that this situation is not enough to strain my reputation," he argued, making Hernan frown and sigh. "As you''ve mentioned, the knights tantly refused the crown princess''s orders. She had all the reason to punish them even if their sentence was far graver than their offense."

    "After all, it is their fault that they didn''t use their heads and fell into her trap," he added in a knowing tone, not showing even the slightest concern. "I am not siding with Circe. All I''m saying is, at the end of the day, she''s still my wife and the crown princess of the empire. Our marriage is bound by the Maganti and Haimirich imperialw. Although her actions raised more questions about her birthright, they also made things more confusing. If she was Aries, she wouldn''t do something as big as this, especially for that dog. She''d be more discreet."

    Joaquin cast Hernan a knowing look, pointing out the obvious. Everything he had said was things his aide was already aware of. All the matters regarding Aries must be taken seriously and they couldn''t approach it recklessly. She got the Haimirich Empire on her back.

    Aries''s attitude that kept going back and forth also put everyone who was questioning her origins at a dead end. So, with one wrong move, things would go south. The damages would surely be irreparable, and Joaquin couldn''t risk a war against the Haimirich Empire just yet.

    "For now, let her be. If this makes her happy, let her establish her position." The crown prince''s silver eyes glinted as he tapped his fingers against the armrest lightly. "It''s even more fun to watch someone fly up high. The higher she flies, the more painful her crash would be."

    Hernan pressed his lips into a tight sh as he lowered his head. "I understand, Your Highness."

    "For now, we''ll focus on Ismael." This time, Joaquin''s eyes darkened as he moved on from the incident in the Sapphire Pce as if it was none of his concern anymore. "Tonightбн he will go down."

    "Yes. Everyone and everything is prepared for the operations."

    Joaquin smirked at the thought of taking out the thorn that had been stuck in his throat for a long time. Little did he know, he wasn''t the only one who was preparing for something big tonight. Everyoneбн who had their eyes on the throne, and also those who wanted that same throne razed down to smithereens, took the opportunity for today''s incident in the inner pce.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    <strong>[Sapphire Pce]</strong><sub> </sub>

    "I heard you''ve eaten well."

    Unlike her fierce treatment of everyone, Aries was like an entirely different person as soon as she joined Curtis in the room next to her. Curtis was already bathed and fed; Gertrude made sure he was taken care of while Aries was busy bringing terror to everyone in the pce.

    Curtis just lowered his head and his eyes fell on his bandaged hands on hisp. Aries smiled as she stroked his hair gently, raising her head at Gertrude, who was smiling subtly near the settee.

    "Gertrude, prepare me outdoor clothes so that I can move around freely." Gertrude''s brows furrowed at Aries''s sudden request. "Don''t let anyone see it."

    "Your Highness, are you nning on sneaking outside?" She inquired with worry. "What happened in the inner pce today raises the security of the imperial pce. It''s reckless, Your Highness."

    Aries simply smiled before she set her eyes back to Curtis. "What happened today in the inner pce brought terror to everyone. However, it was an opportunity and a clear message to everyone, Gertrude." She tucked Curtis''s stray hair behind his ear.

    "An important figure that apparently gives bnce to power among the royals is about to go down. People need to make a decision tonight, Gertrude. It is either they go down with him, orбн shake hands with the person who will rise in power," she continued and paused, smiling at Curtis when he looked at her after holding his hand gently. "What do you think of the people''s decision, Curtis?"

    Curtis blinked but didn''t answer. Still, Aries nodded in agreement.

    "That''s right. It''s a split decision." Her smile remained as she leaned back, still holding his hand to give him some warmth in contrast to the tone of her voice. "Some of the people of this important piece will retaliate. However, when a dog is cornered, they tend to resort to stupid violence. That''s what his enemy wants бк for him tomit even the tiniest mistake."

    Gertrude pursed her lips while listening to Aries''s statements. She was a mere maid, tasked with taking care of her master. So, the talks of politics and itsplications were something she understood, but at the same time, give her a painful headache. So, listening to Aries and staring at her unbothered demeanor was something that amused her.

    No wonder she had Abel wrapped around her hand. Aries, in this sort of mood, was beautiful in a different way. A fatal beauty: fierce, hot, and deadly.

    "In the games for the throne, even the slightest mistake can cripple a giant. A step ahead is akin to heaven and hell." Aries let out a shallow breath as she smiled sweetly at Curtis. "Sleep deeply tonight, Curtis. Didn''t you tell me in the past? That having a harsh option is brutal, but it''s deadlier if one is unaware of the third one?"

    "If one had no option, then create one. Their greed got themselves a bad apple." Her lips stretched as her eyes glinted, patting his cheek gently. "I''ll see you tomorrow and I will surely bring good news."

 Chapter 200 [Bonus Chapter]A Glimpse Of The Dirty Secret Behind The Maganti

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the Lazuli Pce,</strong> Inez stood in the middle of the enormous greenhouse this ce was known for. She gazed up at the transparent high-ceiling, letting the moonlight filter through the ss and shine down on her.

    "Your Highness, the crown prince''s men had been on the move." A knight stood several feet away from behind her, bowing as he reported the current movements in both parties. "Until now, you''ve been neutral to the crown prince and the third prince. However, tonight will change the current in the royal court."

    Inez remained silent as she took a deep breath, frowning when the thought ofvender crossed her mind. She had heard of what happened during the day in the inner pce, and only a fool wouldn''t know whose doing it was.

    That was Joaquin''s deration.

    It was the crown prince''s way of announcing for everyone to choose a side before the night ends. Although the truth was a bitter pill to swallow, Ismael''s life was essential in giving bnce in power in the imperial pce. If he died, Joaquin would be untouchable.

    Everyone who was heavily involved in the matters of the empire was aware of all this. Those who supported the crown prince wanted nothing but the third prince''s demise, while those on the opposing sides dreaded for Joaquin to gain full control.

    "I dislike both of them," came out a whisper, weighing her options. "It is only normal to finally shake hands with that hypocrite. However, although I detest Ismael just as dearly, I also hate the idea of Joaquin gaining full control in the imperial court."

    "Your Highness, please think this through. Siding with the third prince can put you in danger. All your hard work will go down the drain. The crown prince will want nothing but end everyone who poses a threat to his position." The knight in the shadow reminded her solemnly, a bit taken aback at Inez''s indecisiveness. He had served her for far too long to know she was the person who often took logical decisions.

    He expected her to send a word to the crown prince, but no. Inez hadn''t decided yet, and it seemed she was nning to take a different route, harder than the logical one. Unbeknownst to him, Inez was just as equally surprised at herself.

    It was easy for her to finally acknowledge Joaquin. After all, Inez, although had influence, it wasn''t enough. She was still working on it, and it wasn''t enough to take down Joaquin. She couldn''t risk it, and yet, just the thought of joining hands with Joaquin made her sour.

    She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. While she did, memories of the handprints around Aries''s neck shed across her head. Her frown grew worse, telling herself not to get affected by that vixen but to no avail.

    ''She''s my prey,'' she told herself while opening her eyes slowly. ''Shaking hands with Joaquin also means giving up on my prey.''

    "I hate his guts," she blurted out under her breath, ncing over her shoulder. "What is the emperor''s reaction?"

    "So far, it''s quiet at the emperor''s end."

    She clicked her tongue, thinking their father was simply letting them see who would stand victorious in the end.

    "He''s old, but he''s always cunning." Her eyes glinted dangerously, tilting her head to massage her temple. "Prepare your men. Ismael and his people would''ve been holding a secret gathering as we speak. Knowing those people, they would rather take an offense instead of trying toe out of here alive."

    "Your Highness!"

    Inez looked back with an already decided expression. "I abhor the two of them. However, I''d rather have Ismael alive than let Joaquin monopolize the power in this ce. Until I am strong enough, Ismael must live."

    The knight who remained in the shadow looked at her pair of determined eyes before he hung his head low.

    "I swore an oath to follow your orders, even if it cost my life. This humble servant acknowledges your orders." Inez nodded at his response. "I''ll prepare everyone and see the situation."

    "Don''t get found out." Inez huffed as she held her hand into a fist before she loosened it. "You can''t let the crown prince know our agenda."<sub> </sub>

    "Yes, Your Highness."

    With that being said, Inez averted her eyes away from him before the knight disappeared in the dark. Her eyes glinted with malice, grinding her teeth.

    "Just what is he nning?" she whispered, intrigued by Joaquin''s ns. She narrowed her eyes as she thought of all the routes the crown prince could take to take down Ismael, which gave him this confidence.

    "Whatever it isбн Ismael mustn''t dieбн just yet."

    <strong>***********</strong>

    <strong>[Emperor''s Pce]</strong>

    Abelid t on the enormous bed of the emperor all alone. He kept his eyes on the ceiling, feeling the brewing tension in this imperial pce.

    "It''s much more fun in here," he murmured, thinking that everyone was busy tonight while he waszing around inside the emperor''s bedroom. "I should''ve found Maganti earlier and asked you to adopt me. In that case, I can also participate in these fun games of the throne. No wonder Haimirich is dead boring!"

    He rolled around the bed while he whined. "I''m dying of enviousness!"

    For someone who simply intruded on the imperial pce, Abel was rather rxed inside the Emperor''s pce. Well, this ce was secured and if he wanted some peace, this was the only ce that could give him that. The Sapphire Pce where Aries stayed was also busy at the moment. He didn''t want to disturb her.

    "Hey, my friend." When Abel''s head went over the edge of the mattress, he set his eyes on the closed curtain to the other room connected to the emperor''s room. He then rolled until hey on his stomach so his perspective wasn''t upside down.

    "Is it toote to ask you to adopt me?" he asked, but nothing. "Fine."

    Abel pushed himself up until he was out of the bed. Marching towards the thick curtain, he slid it open without a second hesitation, eyes falling down at the cage beyond the curtain. Yet, he didn''t show any sign of surprise as he approached the cage, ignoring the fresh blood sttered around it.

    "I promise I won''t do this to you," he swore, squatting down three feet away from the cage. His eyes instantly caught an old man whose mouth had smeared blood around it, and bloodshot eyes with ck sclera.

    A monster. A mindless monster.

    The old man slipped his hands through the gap of the cage, reaching for him while letting out animal grunts. Yet Abel simply looked at him and sighed.

    ? "You just had your meal." Abel pointed out as the emperor who, apparently, was now just a mindless monster, desperately tried to reach him to sate his hunger. "This is why I don''t like kids. Look what they had done to you. Poor you."

    He raised a finger and poked the tip of the emperor''s fingertip as if to tease him. He giggled in delight when the emperor''s grunts grew louder and more frustrated. Talk about so close yet so far.

    "I wonder what will be the crown prince''s reaction if you suddenly attend the royal court tomorrow?" he wondered genuinely before the side of his lips stretched from ear to ear. "Heheheбн I can imagine his expression. Say... shall I save you? I don''t ask for much in return... just your rotten soul is enough."

 Chapter 201 Ignorance Is Bliss

    Joaquin wasn''t initially the crown prince. He wasn''t named the crown prince being the second son of the emperor. The firstborn was said to be a bright, wise, and remarkable young man whose future was secured with the emperor and thete empress backing him up.

    Unfortunately, the young crown prince, although birthed for greatness, wasn''t blessed with a long life. At the age of a fleeting fifteen years old, he passed.

    Traditionally, the title of the crown prince was passed on to the current heir of the throne, Joaquin Imperial. No one opposed this decision, for one fact remained. Tradition aside, Joaquin wasn''t less notable than his older brother. The only difference between the two young men was their differing hearts and beliefs.

    One believed in humane reasoning and fair justice, in which he sees himself as humbler than the people of the empire. The other, however, believed that bing the ruler means standing above all else and mocked the ridiculous novelty of the deceased firstborn.

    Abelughed for minutes as he recalled the pieces of information he read regarding the Imperial royal family, which led him to this tragic story of the first prince, the rightful heir to the throne. It was written he had died a natural death бк an ident no one else fathomed to befall him.

    Everyone else moved on since the current crown prince captured the hearts of not only those in the royal court but also the citizen with his charitable employment. It may seem that way, but the emperor who cherished his firstborn was stuck in those times he was alive. With his discretion, although the ones involved in the ident were gravely punished, his gut feeling told him there was something more.

    The emperor was correct. There were even more disturbing facts at y than what wasn''t written in the books of record.

    "They sayбн curiosity kills the cat. Look at you, my friend," said Abel, gazing at the pitiful monster reaching out his bloodstained hands from within the cage. "I don''t know if you''re smart or a fool. Either way, your favoritism led you to your unfortunate demise."

    The emperor continued to produce animal grunts, not a word uttered prated his head. He wasn''t conscious anymore. All he could think about was to sate his hunger for blood and even more blood. The man before him just seemed and smelled too delectable than anything he had just yet, causing his mouth to water.

    "If I deduced correctly, it hadn''t been that long since you''ve been in this state. Fourбн five years, I assumed." Abel crooned, tilting his head, eyes locked with those bloodshot pairs gawking back at him. "Took you quite a long time to figure out what sort of monster is living amongst you people. Although I take it, you were still remarkable in uncovering theyers of lies around your second son. I expect with how discreet he was, you''d die knowing nothing at all."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips. "Therefore, ignorance is bliss," he said. "You wouldn''t end up bing a mindless monster who seeks the blood of another for a mere fleeting relief if you simply turned a blind eye and moved on from your grievances."

    Shaking his head, Abel observed the monster right before him.

    "Pity." He quirked a brow, hearing loud and heavy footsteps approaching. Abel pressed his lips into a thin, tight sh as he pushed himself up.<sub> </sub>

    He turned around and waved indifferently. "Don''t worry. I will be right here while you receive the audience. I have spare time to waste." Then he closed the curtain, standing on the other side of the room filled withvish, antiqued furniture, with almost everything adorned with gold.

    The interior and decor were definitely twice as grand as the ones Abel had in Haimirich. He stood on the spot for quite some time, unbothered by the faint sound of the approaching footsteps.

    "It''s really a good thing I cannot live without seeing my darling for a long time." He shoved a hand in his pocket, marching to the balcony leisurely. "Well, Isaiah had smelled the permeating scent of death in this ce immediately. Surely, humans are fascinating despite being born pitiful."

    When the door of the balcony closed with a soft click, the strange creak of the entrance of the room resonated. Abel, who stood right outside the balcony, looked up while listening to Joaquin''s harsh yet low baritone voice.

    "Greetings to the shining sun of the empire. Your son, the crown prince, is here to request an audience with His Majesty regarding the incident in the inner pce today," said Joaquin formally, standing in front of the curtains separating the two joint rooms.

    Abel smirked while he listened, astonished at how this man, the crown prince, could continue the act despite no one else listening.

    ''Really a pity,'' he thought, leaning his arms against the railings. ''It''ll be fun ying all these mind games with him. I bet Conan will think the same if we set aside the fact of what he had done to my Aries.''

    The side of his lips curled up in amusement. "But s, I had met different fascinating and unique people throughout my time. Letting him go might have been a shame, bute what may, the heavens won''t fall if I let this one go," came out a whisper and followed by a chuckle.

    His eyes glinted when he heard the curtains being pulled open. Even though he wasn''t inside, he knew Joaquin stood on the side of the room that was decorated grandly, staring at the other side, which was empty with barely having candbras, blood-sttered as decorations, and a huge cage where the emperor was kept. The joint room was disturbingly different, like heaven and hell, separated by a mere curtain and a thin line between.

    Surely, if someone heard about this, it wouldn''t be just a scandal. It would throw the empire into utter chaos.

    Aries had been in this ce for years and barely had a glimpse of the tip of the iceberg. But Abelбн it hadn''t been a day, but he had seen the truth no one else aside from Joaquin and a selected few were aware of. It was almost fascinating how the other royals weren''t aware of it as well.

    ''Oh, Magantiбн I will surely remember this ce for a very long time.''

 Chapter 202 Evil

    When Joaquin opened the curtains, his eyes immediatelynded on the cage. The emperor was reaching out, arms slid in between the metal bars, producing animal grunts. The longer he looked, the more the side of his lips curled up into a smirk. A look of delight flickered across his eyes while looking down on his father.

    "I had conducted a thorough investigation regarding the incident of the severed head, Your Majesty. We had found the culprit." His eyes glinted once again, reporting formally, despite knowing the emperor was not capable of making decisions anymore. "I requested an audience tonight since I figured if this matter isn''t resolved tonight, the unrest will only increase. I asked that you entrust this matter to me and punish those who are causing a disturbance in the peace of our dear Maganti Empire."

    All he heard were the continuous grunts which Joaquin expected. It had always been like this for the past years. Joaquin cocked his head to the side before he squatted down to look at him at eye level.

    "Father, one of your beloved children will be executed tonight. I hope you will not hold a grudge since this is for the sake of the empire," he remarked. "You don''t want that, do you?"

    His smirk stretched wider the longer he stared at the monster kept in a cage. This man, in his memory, used to look down on him in disdain, only to smile proudly at his favorite son. Now, he couldn''t even look at him with that anymore since he was nothing but a monster waiting for the day Joaquin would announce his death.

    "What a beautiful sight to behold, indeed," his eyelids dropped until they were partially closed, still sneering wickedly. "I would never get enough of it."

    <strong>Evil.</strong> That was the word that suit this man. He was pure evil, more wicked than the devil.

    Not even a second did he show remorse at the sight of the sovereign of the empire or any filial emotions toward his father. If anything, he enjoyed looking at him with ridicule. The only reason the emperor was still alive was that seeing the emperor in this shameful and damned state was something he took pleasure in.

    This was what happened to everyone who looked down on him. They would be met with a fate harsher than death. The emperor, for instance, and ''that'' woman in the ruinednd of Rikhill. The emperor never bat an eye at Joaquin while growing up, and each time his eyesnded on him, disgust and fear were the only emotions in his eyes.

    Although Aries was entirely a different case, she reminded him of his deceased older brother. Loved by all, adored, and respected. Their mistakes were easily forgiven, while there were those people like Joaquin, who couldn''t afford tomit even the tiniest mistake. Those types of people were the ones he abhorred the most, for he believed their act of righteousness was sickening.

    Therefore, he made sure to drag, not just their name, but their entire existence through the mud until death would be the only thing they would seek.<sub> </sub>

    "Have a good night, Father. I''ll send your regards to your beloved Ismael." He sneered, pushing himself up. He cast the monster inside the cage onest look before closing the curtains. "It''s a shame I wouldn''t get to enjoy your reaction while you gaze at your son''s dead bodyбн just like how youmented at the sight of the corpse of that insufferable firstborn."

    Joaquin scorned as he turned around to leave. But s, just as he took a step, he paused and gazed at the empty bed. His brows knitted as his eyes narrowed, approaching the bed only to see the crease on the sheet, a sign someoneid on it. That very moment, his eyes sharpened as he looked around vigntly.

    Aside from him, no one else was allowed to enter this room. Everyone knew that the emperor''s health was "deteriorating" and only a selected few were allowed inside. Joaquin was one of them. Unless someone else intruded on this ce, then that exined the crease in the bed.

    <strong>Who?</strong> He wondered as he looked around, holding the sword clung to the side of his hips. Who would dare sneak inside the emperor''s room?

    While Joaquin looked around, his eyesnded on the balcony. His eyes once again glinted, withdrawing his sword as he approached the balcony with feather-like steps. When he held on to the handle, he instantly figured it was unlocked, heightening his vignce.

    He held the sword, prepared for anything that would surprise him once he opened this door. Joaquin took a deep breath and once he huffed, he flung the door opened and prepared his sword to block or assault. But s, only the soft gust of the wind weed him.

    Joaquin furrowed his brows and looked from his left to his right before he stepped outside onto the balcony to the railings. He looked over it, seeing no sign of someone escaping by a rope. To make sure it wasn''t just a work of a skilled assassin, he checked all the areas one could use to enter and escape. He saw nothing out of the ordinary.

    "Reallyбн did one of the physiciansy on the bed?" he wondered, knowing the physician could be toozy since he would only attend to this room for formality. There was no way someone could climb up this balcony since the walls were t, and they would fall even before they could reach halfway to this floor. Unless, of course, they could fly or jump really high.

    He put the sword back in its sheath, shaking his head before he returned to the room. Little did he know, just right above the balcony, on the roof to be precise, Abel was peeking his head out while watching him.

    "What a scary man, indeed," he remarked in amusement. "Such a keen instinctбн makes me want to see his reaction once his meticulous n is foiled. Oh, darling, I''m looking forward to what you had in store for this person."

 Chapter 203 Who Would Win This Round?

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    Inside a private lounge in an establishment situated closest to the outskirt of the capital, a group of angry men sat around the oval oak table. On the far end was Ismael wearing an ugly frown as he listened to the men''s endless war of words regarding Joaquin''s scheme.

    "Enough!" he mmed his palm against the table when he had enough of this squabble. "Debating endlessly will not resolve the problem. The incident today is a mere disy of power since His Majesty hadn''t been involving himself in the court to focus on his health. However, it is undeniable that the crown prince had finally plucked out his courage to take out those who threaten his power."

    Ismael huffed as his eyes darkened. "Whatever scheme he concocted, I''ll make sure he will never have thestugh."

    "Your Highness, for the crown prince to have such confidence, I''m certain he was absolute he could take you down бк"

    <strong>SLAM!</strong>

    "Take me down?" Ismael scorned after mming the bottom of his fist once again, contempt filling his eyes as they gloss over the faces of the men in civilian attire sitting around the oval table. "I had persisted and challenged him head-on all these years, and you''re telling me he will take me down in a single night? Are you saying I, the third prince, am incapable and thus, had no means to stand tall with what I had been fighting for?!"

    The noblemen, who had been supporting the third prince and were rooting for him from the start, lowered their heads. Silence subsequently descended upon the private lounge, which had been their secret meeting ce whenever an important incident was needed to be discussed.

    They couldn''t do it within the pce, even in the Jade Pce where the third prince''s quarters were at. The walls in the imperial pce were thin, or rather, there wasn''t a single person to be trusted in that ce as people''s hearts were fickle and therefore easily switches sides to whoever they could benefit the most.

    "I''m certain that isn''t what the minister means, Your Highness." Carlos, the eighth prince, who was also Ismael''s closest brother, frowned. "Everyone who is gathered and attended tonight''s meetingбн" his eyes travel across the table, counting the vacant seats in his head before his eyes settled on Ismael.

    "бн are simply concerned about your well-being. It is no secret that no lengths will stop the crown prince from achieving what he wants. Right now, these vacant seats were proof that his subtle deration can sway people''s determination in a snap of a finger."

    "Those who didn''t attend tonight and came up with their petty excuse of not being avable will regret this." Ismael seethed, knowing the numbers in this room were half than usual. He had seen thising. After all, not many of them really shared the same ideals as his.

    "Until now, that damn crown prince had basked in the glory of myte brother, living the life that wasn''t his in the first ce. I will never let him steal my life or my other brothers''."

    His eyes glinted as the silence thickened. Everyone was aware that Ismael and thete crown prince, the firstborn, had a really close rtionship. Hence, when thetter perished, it devastated the third prince more than any of the princes and princesses.

    Although the case was already considered closed, Ismael still believed deep in his heart that Joaquin had something to do with the death of the previous crown prince. He had all the reason since the person who benefited the most was Joaquin, and when confronted privately, the man in question admitted it himself.<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin admitted it right in front of Ismael, back when they were still teens.

    Just the memory of it still sends a shiver down his spine, but more than the dread of Joaquin''s sneer when he confessed, the fury within Ismael zed wildly. No matter how loud he spoke the truth, no one believed him and at one point, he was considered the one who was greedy for power since it would be his turn if Joaquin was gone.

    The harsh reality beat him to a pulp, it changed him forever.

    A lie would be the truth if it came from a credible man, and the truth would be just a mere noise if spoken by a fool. It was all a matter of deliverance and the speaker.

    He worked hard and rose in power enough to give a bnce between authority, all for the sake of stopping Joaquin''s madness. So whatever Joaquin would throw at him,e what may, he would face them head-on and would stand victorious.

    "We had gathered enough evidence to put him on trial and prove his involvement in the illegal businesses across the empire. Now''s the time to reveal that the man who was about to sit on the throne will bring nothing but suffering to the people of the Maganti Empire." Ismael raised his eyes at the faces, looking back at him. "War is what he wants, so be it. I''m also sick and tired of putting up with him."

    "Tonightбн it''s either him or me," he added.

    Everyone gathered around the table remained silent as they snuck each other a look. They shifted their attention to the quiet fourth prince Enrique when the man spoke.

    "It''s either him or us," Enrique corrected. "I stand with you, brother. Having him have full control in the matters of the imperial court now, of all times, is something we mustn''t let happen."

    "I can imagine myself being thrown out to the lowest of the low once he seeds," Carlos, the eighth prince, added while scratching the back of his head.

    After the other princes'' remarks, the other noblemen also voiced their thoughts. They were on the same boat, and if Ismael fellбн every single one of them who sided with him until now, their families, and everything, would also go down. They had to survive what was toe their way.

    Cornered dogs usually bark and resorted to baring their teethбн and that was the mistake these men were about to make. And every yer of this game бк the strongest down to the silent ones бк had been waiting for this mistake to happen.

    The only question wasбн who would win this round?

 Chapter 204 The Failed Justice System

    One of the illegal businesses and the one that generated a great sum of money to fund Joaquin''s campaign was the gambling house, located right in the eighth district. Although gambling was a good business to drain people''s wealth, there were more disturbing things that were happening inside that not everyone was aware of.

    This particr establishment had also be the center of the drug trade. And the man who was the biggest distributor of this was none other than the crown prince. <strong>Yes. </strong>The reason the opposing parties who were aware of this would never side with someone who could potentially ruin the empire was because of this matter alone.

    The only reason this hadn''t blown up despite knowing all this was theck of evidence to tie the involvement of the crown prince. Joaquin was a thorough person, and it took Ismael and his people years to gather enough evidence to put him on trial. Even if the incident earlier today didn''t happen, Ismael had already nned to use this card anytime soon, and at the perfect time.

    This wasn''t the perfect time, but it was the only card they could use against the crown prince.

    In the residence of the chief of supreme justice, who was also closely affiliated with the church, Ismael rode his steed and requested an emergency audience with the man who was in charge of convicting felons. Since the man requesting this audience was the revered third prince, the minister allowed this meeting.

    "Here is the evidence I had gathered for years regarding the matter of the drug trade that had been corrupting the empire for years." Ismael ced the documents on the coffee table between him and a man. He gazed at the middle-aged man, tall, dark, dashing, and mustached.

    The minister ofw and justice, Modesto Vida, was the person who was entrusted to administer fairness regardless of the status of the people involved. This also included trials of aristocrats and lower nobles. Although the royalties were in a different case, he had the authority to approve a trial if one of the royalties was being used of a felony, since the emperor had handed him that authority.

    One more thing about this person about why Ismael approached him was that he was neutral. He was known for his clean track record and those who tried to bribe him had faced the maximum punishment.

    Modesto bent over to pick up the documents the third prince presented him. As he did so, he raised his eyes to Ismael.

    "Evidence of drug trade?" he asked and the third prince nodded.

    "Yes." Ismael took a deep breath, jerking his chin towards the documents in Modesto''s possession. "In it lies the data going in and out of the empire, the operations, the locations of the trade, and the distributor, backed with legitimate documents as proof to all the ones I had mentioned."

    "Good lord!" Modesto huffed as he leaned back, raising the documents to skim through what could have been a huge scandal in the empire.

    Everyone was already discreet about it, although the existence of the drug was no secret as it had ruined the lives of many бк from aristocrats down to peasants. Ismael studied the man''s expression across from him, nodding in satisfaction seeing how the minister reacted.

    "These are allбн" he trailed off when Ismael cut him off with a resolute;

    "Legitimate marked by a seal and signatures of those who were involved in the operations."

    "Bless this empireбн just whatбн the crown prince?" Ismael nodded as Modesto let out a deep exhale at Joaquin''s name written on the records.

    "Right now, my men, and the minister of defense, the eighth prince, are already on their way to raid the center of their trade," he exined solemnly, knowing every second counted to turn things around before Joaquin could take action. "Once we get your approval, we''ll seize the crown prince to face just trial."<sub> </sub>

    Modesto let out another sigh once again as he threw his head back, eyes closed. When he reopened his eyes, he gazed back at the third prince.

    "Thisбн if the crown prince is seized, it''ll be a huge scandal, Your Highness." Modesto briefed and saw Ismael nod. "Not only it will put the royal family in a tight position, but every royalty will be investigated, and that includes you."

    "I am confident I wille out clean," Ismael affirmed. "To regain the trust of His Majesty''s subjects, we, as the members of the royal family, must prove our innocence and take responsibility for our mistakes. Only then we would gain credence and proved that no one бк even the royal family бк is above thew, and thus, we weren''t ruled by a tyrant."

    Modesto rocked his head as what the third prince had said deserved respect. He remained silent, pushing himself from his seat with the documents still in his hand.

    "Throughout my time, I had met people бк aristocrats andmon people бк who hadmitted unspeakable crimes, but this one is something that is hard to believe," said the minister as he walked towards the fire. "Your Highness, you are truly someone I had admired and your faith in the justice system of the empire is enough to move me to tears."

    Ismael simply stared at his towering figure while he stood by the fire, extending his patience as he respected that this was a pill that was hard to swallow. Just as Modesto said, this matter would put the royal family in a tough position because the person involved was the crown prince. But s, the words he heard next were something that made his blood run cold.

    "Your Highness, are these the original copies?" asked Modesto in a slightly different tone, and then nced back at the third prince. Ismael''s grip on the armrest slightly tightened, studying the minister ofw and justice vigntly.

    "Why are you asking me such a trivial question?" as soon as thest syble escaped his mouth, the side of Modesto''s lips stretched mildly. That very moment, when a subtle glint flickered across the man''s eyes, realization dawned on him.

    He was fucked.

    "Well, of course, to make sure the credibility of theint." Modesto smiled mildly before he nced at the fire. "Your Highness, I meant it when I say I admired your faith in our justice system. But sбн it was proven as a failure long ago when the matters of the death of Prince Manuel were considered a case closed, letting the mastermind get away and take the title of the heir."

    He carefully moved his hand and tossed the documents inside the firece, where they were engulfed by fire almost instantly.

    "Youбн!" Ismael sprung up to his feet, wide-eyed, watching all their years of hard work turn into ash. But even before he could take a step to recover what was there to retrieve, Modesto spoke.

    "A week ago, I also received the same report regarding the drug trade in the empire." Modesto faced Ismael solemnly. "Your Highness, you''re a step behind. You and I are aware that a step behind and ahead is akin to heaven and hell. May God bless your heart."

    As soon as that left Modesto''s lips, the door suddenly flung open, revealing knights speaking words of ''justice'' regarding the arrest of the man, who was also the suspect behind the drug trade in the empire.

    Ismael Imperial.

 Chapter 205 How The Tide Turns In A Second

    Carlos led his soldiers to raid a particr establishment in the eighth district. As soon as he kicked the entrance open with a bang, everyone inside halted as they gaze at the door at the same time.

    "Someone had tipped us regarding these illegal operationsбн" Carlos stated the reason for their arrival with a voiceing from his chest. "бн this ce is now seized under the imperialwбн failure toply will face grave punishmentsбн"

    As the eighth prince spoke, some who were far away from the entrance immediately scurried away to save themselves from getting arrested. Not just a few of them, but even before Carlos could finish speaking about the reason for this raid, chaos already ensued. Some gamblers couldn''t move a muscle upon being caught in the act, others tantly screamed and ran away to save themselves from being seized.

    Having expected this sort of reaction, Carlos nced over his shoulders.

    "Don''t let anyone get away. Those who don''tply, you know what to do," he ordered.

    "Yes, Your Highness!"

    With that being said, knights under themand of the eighth prince marched past him, causing even more chaos inside the establishments. Knights subdued those who were trying to fight and flee the ce. Some, however, immediatelyplied, afraid they would meet a fate harsher than death.

    As the chaos continued, desperate screams and pleading, and angry yells echoed across the entire establishment. The ce soon turned upside down. Carlos stayed still on the spot, watching everything unfold right before his eyes. Right now, Ismael was meeting with the chief of the supreme court. He needed to have this ce under his control, knowing there were more bits and pieces of evidence they could collect.

    And he was correct.

    Just minutes after the raid urred, a knight came running up to him. Carlos looked at him as the knight made his report, causing his eyes to glint as he nod.

    "Lead the way," said the eighth prince to the knight, following thetter as he led him to the underground basement.

    In the underground basement,rge crates were found. Carlos passed by a few knights who immediately found the goods. Standing in front of the stacked-up crates, he jerked his chin up, hinting to the knight to open them to see the content.

    The knight bowed and, as instructed, he opened the crate that was on top of the rest, revealing what seemed to be an illegal substance. Carlos, who was also the chief of defense, knew this drug very well. He had a taste of it in the past, and if not for Ismael, he would''ve been addicted to it as well.

    Fortunately, Ismael wasn''t the type to condemn such actions. The reason the third prince didn''t say anything about Carlos'' addiction to women since that was the eighth prince''s way to stay clean from the use of drugs.

    "Seize everything. They''ll be used as evidence once the trial is approved." He gazed at the knights, dusting off his hands to remove the residues upon touching to confirm the drugs kept inside the crate.

    "Yes, Your Highness."<sub> </sub>

    The eighth prince nodded in satisfaction as the knights bowed, walking away from the basement as there was more ce to search. The drug trade and the illegal operation of the casino were just the tips of the iceberg. There were far more evil deeds Joaquin was involved in, and that included prostitution, human trafficking, and the list goes on.

    They had to gain even more solid evidence to incite public anger and pin Joaquin to the point he wouldn''t recover. This was just the beginning. Carlos''s eyes glinted as he walked through the hallway, heading towards the offices in this establishment.

    However, the second he arrived back in the lobby as it was the only way to check the second floor, he stopped at the sudden appearance of another force. Just like how he kicked the door open and stood by it while announcing the raid, the chief knight of the crown prince also did the same.

    The chief knight, who was also the crown prince''s sword, and his brother, the seventh prince Roman Imperial, in his full armor, just like the knights with him, stood on the exact spot he stood and spewed the exact same words the eighth prince did. The only difference was their ending remarks.

    "Therefore, by the order of the crown prince, we will seize this ce and arrest the man in charge of the illegal operations." Carlos''s eyes dted as soon as the chief knight gazed in his direction. "Your Highness, the eighth prince, you are under arrest for felonyбн"

    <strong>''No.'' </strong>Carlos looked at the man''s eyes behind his metal helm and he knew Roman, the seventh prince was sneering while he read the long list of crimes tied in Carlos'' name. <strong>''Ismaelбн brother, we''re fucked.''</strong>

    It was a setup.

    "Since you are part of the royal family, you will face a proper and fair trial. So, please cooperate." Roman raised his hand and waved it forward, the knight''s cue to march past their captain to seize the eighth prince.

    "No!" Carlos, in defense, drew his sword before the knight could reach him. "Roman!! What the hell are you doing?!"

    His voice shook, his face shed in red, smoldering in anger at this mockery. Every single one in this establishment knew the truth and yet, Roman didn''t even falter while speaking about all the crimes that were supposed to be read to the crown prince.

    The knights, who paused after drawing their swords, looked back at Roman, waiting for his green signal. But Roman kept his focus on Carlos, removing his helm to reveal a face of a scarred man, with his long dark auburn hair which was leaning more to the color of the earth.

    He waved his hand. "Put your swords down," he ordered, and the knights automatically took a step back while putting their swords back into their sheath.

    "The eighth prince, although being charged with numerous felonies, is still a part of the royal family, and is also a master swordsman. Continue the raid and drag everyone out of the establishment." Roman held the handle of his sword and, with a piercing sound of metal being drawn, he added. "I will handle him."

    "Youбн!" Carlos seethed as his entire body trembled in anger. "Alright. If that is what you want. It seems you had forgotten where that scar on your face came from."

    Roman remained unfazed, but the tone of his voice dropped to negative zero. "I will never forget who did this to my face. Never."

 Chapter 206 Viva La Vida

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the Vida Residenceбн</strong>

    "I appreciate your understanding and cooperation, Reverend. I''ll make sure the church is making the right decision." Joaquin smiled, sitting inside the sitting room, with his leg resting over the other, eyes on the middle-aged man across from him.

    Modesto pressed his lips and sported a meek smile. "I hope the crown prince will uphold his end of the bargain," said he. "The church will continue to support the crown prince, so we will hold on to your promise about the church."

    "Of course. I am a man of my words. Everyone in the church will be under my protection. No one will ever touch the children with me having you back." Joaquin smiled as he bent over, picked up the decanter, and poured two empty sses of some wine they could enjoy.

    As he did so, Modesto was clutching his hand on hisp, eyes on the crown prince. He told himself multiple times he made the correct decision. Although he might get punished for shaking hands with the devil, he only did so so that this messy power strife would leave the church and the children unharmed.

    After all, Joaquin''s power and control over the court had significantly increased, even without others realizing it. If only Modesto had a choice, he would''ve sided with Ismael. Between the crown prince and the third prince, one would surely choose thetter.

    Joaquin was just a menace, and it was no secret they were all his pawns. He would dispose of them without batting an eye if he so pleased.

    However, the reason most of the crown prince''s supporters still stood by him despite that was to extend their life. Just like Modesto, a man Joaquin had on his neck, would fall from false charges and put the entire church in a scandal if he go against him.

    Honestly, a scandal was the least of his concern, but he knew the crown prince. Committing genocide and ughtering the children the church was sheltering just sounded so disturbingly terrifying and believable, just so the people would lose trust in the churchpletely was something Joaquin was capable of doing. There were no lengths Joaquin wouldn''t go to take down his enemies.

    "Cheers?" Joaquin slid the wine towards Modesto, raising a ss with a smile on his face. Thetter cleared his throat, reaching for the ss with trembling hands. A smirk resurfaced on the crown prince''s face, noticing the pent-up anxiety screaming silently from Modesto''s demeanor.

    Modesto raised his ss and smiled meekly. "Long live, Your Highness, the crown prince."

    "Hehбн long live, me." The crown prince smirked, leaning back, elbow on the armrest, gazing at the red liquid inside the ss. "Poor Ismael. I knew he''d do something like this once he had no choice, not knowing he is digging his own grave."

    "Serves him right," he added before chugging down the alcohol, only to hiss in satisfaction.

    Watching the triumphant smirk stered on the crown prince''s face, Modesto''s heart was filled with dread. He lowered his eyes, staring at his reflection in the still wine.

    ''May the Gods protect thisnd from this man and may he forgive us who failed you,'' he prayed deep in his heart, knowing the empire was heading to damnation with this man holding power. ''May you protect the innocents and give salvation to them.''

    <strong>********</strong>

    "Damnбн"

    Ismael ground his teeth. Hands bound on his back, kept inside a carriage as they deliver him back to the imperial pce as a prisoner. His eyes were bloodshot, kicking the wooden walls of the carriage after letting out another yell.

    "Damn you all!!" he screamed to release the building fury within, but to no avail. Joaquin''s men seized and killed half of his men, who were with him. It was a meticulous trap and he couldn''t believe he voluntarily stepped his foot in it.<sub> </sub>

    "God damn it!!" another outburst came out, kicking the walls of the carriage with his bound feet, causing it to sway sideways.

    "Hey! Fuck! Stay still, will you?!" A loud bang came from outside, yelling at him as if Ismael wasn''t royalty anymore.

    "How dare youбн" the third prince''s voice shook in anger, grinding his teeth as he kept kicking with all his might.

    As he did so, he heard the knight escorting this carriage curse, only for another knight to remind him of the crown prince''s orders.

    "Don''t forget His Highness'' orders. Although he will be stripped of his title soon, he''s still royalty. He can''t attend the trial beaten ck and blue. If he gained even the slightest sympathy, we''re all done for."

    Ismael huffed and puffed the more he listened to the knights'' conversation. His anger came not only from his pitiful situation but also, he knew his people were in danger right at this moment. If he was seized in Vida''s residence and was framed for an attempt to "bribe" the chief justice, he was certain Carlos had faced the same problem.

    Since Joaquin was the one who arrived at Modesto''s house, that only meant the crown prince''s sword was tasked with something else. Ismael knew his brothers and their issues with each other. It would not surprise him if Roman, the seventh prince, had led Carlos'' arrest.

    "I can''tбн" he clenched his teeth, hunching in as he tried to break free from the ropes. "I can''t go down like thisбн Manuel, I can''tбн our empireбн your beliefs and dreams for the peopleбн is done for if that abomination seeded."

    But no matter how much he tried, it was all for naught. Although he didn''t have visible wounds, they beat him earlier in the areas of his body that wouldn''t be seen. One of them was breaking his left arm, but the adrenaline was helping him numb the pain, so he still had the energy and strength to retaliate.

    All he could think of was to escape this carriage because, once they reached the pce, it was over. Everything he had been fighting for, his efforts, his promise he uttered in the grave of thete crown prince Manuel, everything would go down the drain.

    He couldn''t let that happen. But, how?

    "Shitбн!" Desperate, Ismael could only curse through his gritted teeth, not seeing any light in all of this. But before he could ept this total defeat, he looked up as the carriage suddenly halted, followed by knights yelling,

    "Who are you?!"

    No words came afterward because what followed that question was the sound of swords being drawn and angry yelling. Ismael''s breath hitched, listening to the chaos happening outside, but he didn''t have that much hope because the people who ambushed them could also be one of the people who were after his life.

    It didn''t take long when the noises outside subsided. Actually, it was too quick that it was almost impossible to assume everyone had already died. The knights under the crown prince were elite soldiers. They wouldn''t go down this easily unless the people who ambushed them were ten times their number, which was also impossible since that number would create more noise.

    <strong>BAM!</strong>

    Ismael flinched when the door of the carriage suddenly flung open. He raised his shaking eyes and furrowed his brows when he saw an armored knight standing outside with blood smeared across the shiny metal armor.

    "Hello," greeted the armored knight with a youthful voice, pushing the visor of his helm up. "You have toe with me if you want to liveбн said my boss."

 Chapter 207 Need Better Friends

    "бн said my boss."

    Those were the words Ismael heard before the ropes around his hands and feet came loose. The next thing he knew, the armored knight dragged him out rudely, but he was too stunned to even wonder who was this person, and what they wanted from him.

    To add more to this shock, the second Ismael was dragged out of the carriage, he looked around the dark rocky road only to realize there weren''t hundreds of people who ambushed them.

    Just one. This one.

    His dted and shaking eyes shifted to the armored knight, cked jaw.

    "Whoбн are you?" he blurted out under his breath, even before he could realize how stupid his question was. Much to his dismay, the armored knight replied.

    "Conan," said Conan while looking at him with knowing eyes and showing him a thumbs up. "A recruit under the crown prince."

    ''A spy?'' Ismael furrowed his brows before he nced at the dead soldiers scattered around.

    All he could think of was whoever this Conan was, he was even more skilled than any master swordsman he had encountered in his life. The remains of the soldiers were the proof and how swiftly he had taken them down was enough for the prince to discern the master of this knight in disguised was someone untouchable.

    ''Who?'' he wondered. ''Who is his master?

    After everything that had happened and how the events slipped out of his control, a realization dawned on him. Joaquin was untouchable. But with the appearance of this armored knight, Ismael had a feeling it wasn''t the end just yet.

    Still, the question remained. Who was this Conan? And who was the person he was working for?

    Did Joaquin make another powerful enemy? Orбн was there another participant in this messy power strife they were unaware of? Myriads of questions hovered over Ismael''s head and none of them were answered.

    Ismael could only stare at the armored knight while thetter grumble about his armor. When Conan finally shifted his attention back to him, he tilted his head to the side.

    "What?" asked Conan with genuine wonder in his voice.

    "Whoбн sent you?" once again, the third prince blurted out, noticing that they weren''t moving from their spot as if Conan was waiting for someone. Thetter was also oddly rxed despite being surrounded by the crown prince''s dead soldiers. Ismael was certain Joaquin would send his people to look for them if they didn''t arrive on time.

    "You''ll figure it out soon," Conan replied, hands on his hips, looking up. "What''s taking him so longбн? I can''t leave this ce like this. Knowing him, he needs detailed instructions."

    Ismael furrowed his brows before he discreetly looked around. He was no longer bound, and although he had a broken arm, he could still flee. ncing at the armored knight who was busy looking in the sky, he took a careful step back to make a run for it.

    "Running away will not help you." He froze when Conan spoke without looking back at him. "You can run away now and I won''te after you. However, if you do, you''ll be branded as a traitor of the nation, and you will be on the run as a felon. Forever."<sub> </sub>

    Conan paused as he looked back at the third prince. "You don''t want that, do you? You believe you''re innocent and did nothing wrong. So, why would you live in hiding when the person who needs to be punished walks freely?"

    Ismael opened and closed his mouth, but he had already lost his voice. What Conan said was nothing but facts.

    If he run away now, he might avoid standing on the gallows on the morrow, but then he would be a wanted man with a bounty on his head. Knowing Joaquin, he would surely give out a kill on sight order.

    Ismael couldn''t think of anything else to turn things around anymore. The trial that awaits him was rigged, and the verdict was already set in stone. Everything that woulde afterward was solely for formality.

    "How do I get away from itбн?" he hung his head low as helplessness sank deep into his bones.

    "My employer had a way. Juste with me and you get to live and keep your title." Ismael raised his ashen face at the armored knight, before shifting his eyes towards the galloping horseing in their direction. "You''ll meet my employer soon. You decide by then."

    Conan cast him a look. "You can take my advice with a pinch of salt, but from my experience, if you want to live and stand victorious in the end, don''t be dumb."

    As soon as thest syble escaped his mouth, Conan gazed at the person riding the horse while holding the rein of another. He clicked his tongue, stomping his way towards the steeds while a lean man in a cloak jumped out of the horse.

    "Morro, what the heck?! I said I need a ride!"

    "Can''t you ride on these?" asked the man whose half of his face was covered with the hood of his cloak, and only his razor teeth could be seen.

    "I meant a carriage! I don''t like riding a horse! It''s a pain in the arse!"

    "Just fly then."

    "I wish!" Conan grumbled and huffed, snatching the reins grumpily. "Clean this area and make sure not a strand of hair is left! We can''t mess this up, alright?! Or else, you and I, no, just you! You will die! You get me?!"

    "I miss being a bird. I should''ve surrendered to that abomination and let him put back my seal," mumbled the man in cloak named Morro, dragging his feet towards the bodies loitering the area.

    "Goodnessбн I should''ve looked for better friends who will respect my vacation time." Conan grumbled. Although he was the one who proposed to help Aries, the people he asked for assistance would rather smirk right in his face or, just like Morro, who needed precise instructions or he would mess everything up.

    By the time he looked back at Ismael, his mood was near rock bottom. "Come, Prince. Let''s go meet my boss," he urged, tipping his head in the horses'' direction.

    Ismael just looked at him with nk eyes before he nodded and stammered.

    "Ye бк yes."

 Chapter 208 Violet

    <strong>An hour and a half before the present timeбн</strong>

    "Leave." Aries looked at the woman, who was holding a shawl around her, looking back at her with dted eyes.

    Just now, she intruded into the eighth prince''s quarters where his first wife lived. How she got in was easy since Aries had been observing every ce and knew the routes that were the least people use.

    As soon as she snuck into the very chamber they were standing in, she found the princess still awake and was reading a book on the desk. The princess, with a natural beauty that made everything бк her nightdress or an elegant dress бк pale inparison, looked at the intruder vigntly.

    Due to theck of light in the chambers, the princess was scared out of her wits at the presence of the intruder. She wanted to scream, but for reasons she couldn''t exin, her voice wouldn''te out. Only when Aries spoke did her eyes truly dte as she recognized that voice.

    "Your Highness?" she called in disbelief, narrowing her eyes when the figure standing near the shut doors advanced in her direction. The princess stepped back on instinct, her rear hitting the edge of the desk, causing themp on it to shake.

    "Leave," Aries repeated as she stopped several feet away from her. "This ceбн knights will soon march in this ce. They will drag you, your children, and your people out to receive punishment for the crimes you had nothing to do. You know what is there to expect if they get their hands on you."

    "Your Highness." The princess, the first wife of the eighth prince Carlos, smiled awkwardly, baffled at Aries''s straight-to-the-point words. Although Aries wasn''t beating around the bush, it made things more confusing for her.

    "I don''t understand. Why are you here? I mean, you could''ve just invited me or told someone that you would visit our humble quarters. Whyбн" she trailed off as she studied the crown princess''s attire, which was unlike the usualvish dresses she would usually wear. Instead, the crown princess was wearing baggy trousers, a blouse that wasn''t too loose or fit, hair tied in a ponytail, and just an entirely different demeanor away from the elegant crown princess who never allowed a speck of dust tond on her.

    "Violet." Princess Violet''s eyes went round when Aries called her name, holding her breath as she locked eyes with those piercing sharp emeralds. "Right now, the third prince had fallen into the crown prince''s trap. Ismael is the man your insufferable husband served. In simple words, they''ve made a miscalction and the consequences will be dire."

    "Do I have to spell it out for you?" Aries''s eyes glinted without taking her eyes off of the princess. "Flee now, or go down with your husband."

    Violet knitted her brows, holding the shawl near her chest as she processed the crown princess''s words. She understood what Aries''s spewed yet; it was still baffling. The feud between Joaquin and Ismael was no secret to everyone. However, until now, those two had remained civil.

    "You heard about the incident today in the inner pce." Violet raised her head once again when Aries spoke. "It''s the crown prince''s disy of power, but also an opportunity for him to have an excuse to proceed to what he had been nning. You''re smart, Violet, and you lived in this ce for a long time to understand how things quickly escte."

    Violet looked at Aries and scoffed in disbelief. "Your Highness, with all due respect, please forgive me if I am overstepping my bounds. However, why? Why are you saying all this to me? I know you are the crown princess and soon the empress of the empire. I am but a mere first wife of the eighth prince. Whatever that is going to happen, I will remain by his side, since that is the vow I had taken when I married him."

    <o>,m Listening to the stubborn remarks of the princess, Aries''s eyes darkened. Instead of replying immediately, she marched towards Violet. Thetter panicked as she tried to back away, only to fuse with the desk behind her. Violet shut her eyes when Aries was within her proximity, but to her surprise, Aries didn''t hit her just as she expected.</o>

    Violet carefully opened her eyes, ncing over her shoulders, and caught the crown princess holding her bicep. When she raised her head, her breath hitched as soon as she locked eyes with Aries''s pair of sharp eyes.<sub> </sub>

    "I know you''re a faithfuldy who loved her husband despite the abuse and pain he had caused you. However, is your marriage vow more important than your life?" asked Aries, containing herself as her grips around the princess'' shoulders tightened. "The eighth prince had betrayed you multiple times, broke your heart into smithereens, and doesn''t care about you."

    "He loves me," Violet argued with a shaking voice, but the emotions in her eyes were enough proof she was barely deluding herself into believing the impossible.

    "No, Violet. Wake up. The eighth prince married you to gain the power he currently holds. He doesn''t love you. He needed you." Aries''s voice was firm as she breathed out. "If he loves you, hurting you would also hurt him. The actions he called ''idents'' and ''mistakes'' aren''t idents and mistakes. He knew exactly those things will hurt you, but he did it anyway. He doesn''t love you, he loves himself, and he''s not worth dying for."

    She paused as she squeezed Violet''s shoulders slightly. "For once, Violet, choose yourself. Choose your children; they don''t deserve to die because of their father''s mistakes... Don''t let this ''love'' blind you and take away the future of your children."

    There was a moment of silence between the twodies as they stared at each other. When Violet''s lips parted, a soft voice came out.

    "Why are you doing this, Your Highness?" she asked. "Whyбн are you saying all this?"

    "Don''t you really know the reason?" Aries released her shoulders as she straightened her back. "Did you really forget this face?"

    Violet''s reaction brought a subtle smile to Aries''s face. "''Sorry,''" she said as she pivoted on her heel, turning her back on the princess.

    "That word you uttered years ago is the one that saved you today." She waved without looking back, marching towards the door. "You don''t have an entire night to mull about my words. Decide as soon as possible before it''s toote. And when you do, bring only what''s necessary and the people you trusted deeply. My people will wait for you just right outside the east wing."

    Aries stopped by the door as she looked back at the princess frozen in her spot. "Break those chains, Princess. Even if it means severing your ankle and starting over again. If thinking it''s for your sake is not enough to give you courage, then I hope you think about your innocent children who had done nothing wrong."

    With that being said, Aries resumed in her tracks, leaving Princess Violet alone in the chambers. Thetter could only stand on the same spot for minutes, staring at the shut door nkly.

    "Lady Ariesбн" she whispered as tears shimmered in her eyes, smiling subtly. "бн I knew it was you."

    Between her husband and her children, Violet loved her children more. She would die for them. She simply didn''t have the courage to walk away from this marriage, therefore, deluding herself Carlos would eventually appreciate her efforts, since she believed that was her only method to give her children a good life. But with what Aries had said, the same woman who went through hell only to emerge from the very bottom of it was somehowбн empowering.

    If Aries did it, perhaps starting over wasn''t as terrible as what she believed, Violet thought.

    "Lady Aries... can I really... do it?"

 Chapter 209 The Lost Angel In Hell

    <strong>PRESENT TIMEбн</strong>

    Inside an abandoned establishment between the border of the first and second districts of the capital, Aries sat alone on the dimly lit porch. The armchair she was sitting on was covered with a white sheet, just like the other chairs and furniture.

    Sitting in this darkness all alone and in silence, she couldn''t help but think about Violet.

    Princess Violet. Delicate, modest, kind, and a woman of proper decorum. The perfect example of what a princess should be. She married the eighth prince Carlos Imperial for mutual benefits, but Violet was someone who hoped that this marriage, although arranged for political benefits, would be a heartwarming love story.

    She was foolish.

    She devoted her life to the eighth prince, put up with him, and forgave all the emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. Carlos, the eighth prince, was a man of greed. Someone like him who would spew words of love with a straight face, finding excuses for his actions, would never change.

    Violet probably knew that but simply forgave him, putting in all her faith that her husband would change.

    Yes. She was foolish, that was for sure. However, Violet was not weak. Choosing forgiveness despite the pain the man in question inflicted on her repeatedly was something worthy of respect. She could''ve fooled around to get even, but Violet didn''t, keeping her chin held high and would constantly smile despite the shattered pieces of her heart within that beautiful shell.

    Which led to this mercy and the reason behind Aries''s action.

    In the past, while Aries was still Joaquin''s war trophy, the drunk Carlos came to the crown prince''s quarters. While waiting for his brother, Carlos roamed the pce бк not the Sapphire pce бк where Joaquin used to stay. While he did so, he encountered Aries inside one of the bedrooms.

    She had her hand tied at the post of the bed, scrunched up on the corner outside the bed. When she raised her head, Carlos was so mesmerized by her beauty and, as if bound by a spell, he entered the room without taking his eyes off of her.

    The second Aries heard the door closing, she knew what would happenбн and it did.

    Joaquin hadn''t shared her with anyone back then and upon hearing this, the crown prince was enraged. Even so, the consequences Carlos received weren''t anywhere close to what Aries had to face. During all that chaotic sitch, Princess Violet secretly visited Aries, who was beaten ck and blue.

    Just when Aries thought Violet would sneer at her for "receiving" her husband or ridicule her, she tended her wounds, crying, and repeatedly saying<strong> ''sorry,'' </strong>in between her sobs. Aries, although still in a daze from everything she had gone through, remembered that word: sorry.

    No one in this empire ever uttered those words, yet Violet, whom she had met for the first time, apologized to her. Aries didn''t cry when she was beaten up or when she was forcefully vited, but she welled up when the princess''s gentle hands held her tenderly, feeling her heated tears on the back of her hand, listening to her sobs and words of apologies.

    "Violet is the lost angel in hell," she whispered as her eyes softened, yet the sharpness in them remained dominant. "I hope she chooses herself and her children. It''ll be a shame if I have to watch her march to the gallows to be punished for a crime she didn''tmit."<sub> </sub>

    Violet deserved more.

    Although fleeing the imperial pce to start anew could be challenging for a princess who lived her life infort, it was the best option for her to survive. Aries would put her hand in her heart and swear Violet would recover. A kind andpassionate woman such as Violet, would find a better ce than this hell d with gold and luxury to hide the zing fire and rotting corpses as the foundation of where the imperial pce stood.

    Aries lowered her eyes, propping her jaw against her knuckles, resting her leg over the other. If Violet fled the eighth prince''s quarters, she would have met the people Conan hired to escort her away from the empire. Both Aries and Conan had nned this back in Haimirich because Aries had always wanted Violet to leave the imperial pce.

    "Although my first target is Inez, there were certain things that were beyond my control." бк that included the situation between Ismael and Joaquin. She expected it would still take a few months before Joaquin would take Ismael out of the picture.

    However, since this situation had already reached its boiling point, she had to change her ns as well. Fortunately, her advisor and the person who taught her how to scheme was Conan. Thetter kept denying he wasn''t good with concocting schemes and called it simply strategizing, but whatever he wanted to call it, Conan helped Aries a lot.

    She was already good at creating ns, but Conan, thetter, was a man who considered every angle no matter how big and small the situation was. Therefore, here they were, skipping several ns and proceeding to adapt to the current while still aiming to gain the most out of it.

    The side of her lips curled up when she heard the neighing of horses outside. All the thoughts that were in her head regarding Violet slowly faded, focusing on the matter at hand. And that was to start with her n.

    She would start with this one.

    A loud creak resounded across the entire dimly lit lobby as the main entrance opened slowly. Her eyes fell on the two shadows stretching in before they entered the abandoned mansion. As soon as she raised her gaze, she caught an armored knight and then the man walking behind him.

    "Wee."

    The armored knight jolted when Aries broke the silence, watching the two of them turn their heads in her direction. Aries ignored the armored knights and stared at Ismael, whose eyes went round upon recognizing her voice.

    "Youбн" Frozen on his spot, Ismael held his breath. The light from the candbra on the nearby stand only gave light to herp down to her crossed feet. But he couldn''t mistake this voice for a thick <anno data-annotation-id="1c94b39d-3b33-b08e-8642-d8f8ed99b178">Hillian </anno>ent.

    <o>,m The armored knight''s next words confirmed it.</o>

    "Lady Aries, how can you startle me like that?! We''re not in a horror genre!" Conanined as he marched towards her, only to stop midway as he looked back at Ismael. "Rightбн she''s the boss I''m talking about who wants to help you."

    <annotations style="disy: none;"><ol ss="tinymce-annotation-container"><li data-annotation-id="1c94b39d-3b33-b08e-8642-d8f8ed99b178">What citizens of Rikhill called</li></ol></annotations>",

 Chapter 210 The Only Law She Adheres

    "Rightбн she''s the boss I''m talking about who wants to help you."

    Ismael thought of all the people who could employ this armored knight. The crown princess crossed his head briefly, but so far, the crown princess had shown no sign she was involved in anything. He was certain of that since he had nted his people to keep a close eye on the ''new ally'' of the crown prince.

    Although it was too early to assume the crown princess would be Joaquin''s ally, their rtionship so far was good. If the crown princess was a little bit stupid, whose heart was bigger than her head, she would fall for Joaquin''s virulent spells.

    But never did Ismael think Aries would''ve already gained a foothold in this political strife. She was a potential, butбн

    "Ariesбн" he blurted out under his breath, staring at her with eyes full of disbelief. "бн so you''reбн"

    "бн that woman," Aries stressed the words that failed toe out of his mouth.

    Ismael blinked countless times as he processed this revtion. If she was really that Aries from the fallen kingdom of Rikhill, then this entire situation had turned for the worst.

    Everyone had doubted her origins, but she wasn''t like the Aries everyone knew except for this face. Therefore, some who barely knew her, just like Ismael, thought it was just as simple as an uncanny resemnce. While there were others who were heavily involved with Aries and the demise of Rikhill, like Joaquin, simply went with the flow.

    How, why, when, whatбн none of those hovered over his head. The answer was already obvious and asking her motives was in stupid. She returned with a vengeance. How she became the beloved sister of the revered Marquess Vandran in Haimirich didn''t matter; she was capable and had her ways.

    "Why don''t you take a seat, Your Highness? I believed you have a lot of questions. It''s better if we chat infort." Aries smirked, enjoying the sight of Ismael as realization dawned on him. Thetter snapped his eyes, lips quivering, moving his trembling feet to the set of couches, and sat on the one-seater armchair across from her.

    "Sir Conan, aren''t you tired of wearing that full body armor all day long?" Instead of focusing on Ismael, Aries could not help but nce at Conan, who perched on the other chair. "That is not the essence of vacation."

    "But I like it." Conan held the helm of his armor and carefully removed it as he continued. "You won''t believe how manydies fancied me just by wearing this armor."

    "Fanciedбн" she scrunched her nose up, watching Conan run his hand through his hair with his hairline and roots damped with sweats. "I''m certain you caught their eyes because they found you strange wearingbat armor."

    Aries shook her head. Fortunately, the seventh prince, who was also Joaquin''s sword, wore his full body armor in the pce to hide the ugly scar across his face, his men also walked around in their full-body armor as a gesture of respect to their captain.

    "Lady Aries, how can you say that?! I am charming! Are you saying this vacation wouldn''t be fruitful? I might be a married man soonбн!"<sub> </sub>

    While Conan rambled, Ismael remained silent. He darted his eyes between the two, sensing that they were rather rxed despite the current situation. For goodness'' sake! Someone was probably being tortured as they speak! But then again, Ismael couldn''t me them.

    Whatever would happen to Ismael''s people, it wasn''t these two''s responsibilities, nor it was their concern. Whether they end this meeting on a good note or they wouldn''t get to a mutual understanding, Aries would still be the crown princess. She wouldn''t gain anything, sure, but she wouldn''t also lose anything if they didn''t shake hands.

    That fact was like a tight p on Ismael''s face.

    Right now, he was the one who needed Aries. Although he didn''t do anything to her in the past, a person with vengeance only had one thing in mind: destruction. That was just the mildest one if he considered the empire that sent this vengeful soul to the Maganti.

    "Right." Aries cleared her throat as she refocused her eyes on Ismael, making thetter look back at her with vignce in his eyes. She smiled, yet it didn''t reach her eyes.

    "Apologies, Your Highness. It was rude of us to banter like children in your presence."

    "Not at all, your royal highness. I am simply appalled by many things. As you already know, Iбн" His breath hitched, but he still forced his voice out of his throat while trying to sound formal. "I made a miscalction."

    "You did." She nodded in agreement, still in awe at how Ismael admitted to his mistakes, which were quite rare in the royalties. However, she wasn''t surprised about it since had seen through his smoke and mirrors.

    "However, it seems your highness didn''t understand well which mistake hemitted," she added, smacking her lips, and shaking her foot. "It was true that until you decided an hour ago, you were the person whose existence put a bnce in power in the royal court. However, my husband''s bold provocation had rattled you, which was the entire goal. I understand, though, since anyone would be filled with anxiety if the opposing party had disyed such confidence."

    Aries tilted her head, studying Ismael''s somber expression. "Thing is, that sort of mistake isn''t what entirely brought you into this situation. The gravest miscalction you had done is fighting fair and square, your Highness. Those who fight fairlyбн always meet a harsh end."

    "Just look at Rikhill. Where is it now?" she inquired, raising her brows as she shed him a knowing look. "Although there is still a part of me that sincerely believed evilness will never win against the goodбн that method doesn''t work on me, sadly. Maybe for others, but not for me."

    "What are you nning?" he asked, and his direct question brought a smile to her face.

    "An eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth," came out an unhesitant answer while bearing a smile. "This morning, you said I shoulde to your side. Your Highness, I will nevere to your side. But... I am inviting you toe over to my side."

    Her eyes glinted as she kept them locked with him. "The justice system in Maganti failed you. So, why note to me? I''ll surely give them a satisfying verdict that adhered to the onlyw I follow; myw."

 Chapter 211 The Cemetery In Her Soul [Thanks For 100 GT]

    There was a long silence after Aries''s remarks. Ismael kept his eyes on her, noticing the contempt in those pairs of opalescent eyes.

    She was basically telling him this wasn''t an invitation to an alliance. Aries was asking him to work for her and hand over the little power that was still left in him.

    "What about my people?" he asked under his breath. "My brother Carlos, what will happen to him?"

    "Hmmбн the report I received before your arrival is that the crown prince''s sword arrested him for his involvement in illegal gambling operations," Aries briefed, watching Ismael breathe out heavily. "Sadly, I can''t do anything about it anymore and even if I had means of getting him a lighter sentence, why would I?"

    "You..."

    She tilted her head to the side and sneered. "Don''t tell me you had forgotten what he had done to me? Wasn''t he gloating about bedding me to confirm my identity?"

    Her remarks caused Ismael''s blood to run cold. His heart sank deeper, unable to feel his own pulse at the weight of her words.

    "Carlosбн is someone who is important to me and is essential to my influence."

    "Was, your highness. The eighth prince was an essential piece for you, but he had zero value for me. Keeping him will only hurt your name further." Aries corrected. "I''m certain if the eighth prince truly believed in you, he will understand and ept thisбн honorable sacrifice for the person he believed who must inherit the throne. He wouldn''t drag your name through the mud, will he?"

    "Honorable sacrifice?" he scoffed through his gritted teeth, seeing her shrug as she quirked a brow.

    "Surviving, your highness, requires necessary sacrifices. I learned that years ago when my people shed their blood and lost their life for me," came out a quick reply as she sat up properly. "That is the reason my life is not just mine alone, which I can throw away just because things are hard. An entire nation lives within the cemetery in my soul, and I can''t let them all down the second time."

    "What I am implying is you mustn''t let down the deaths that you will carry after tonight," she continued in a knowing tone. "They will perish, yes, but it is your duty to make sure their deaths will not be in vain."

    Cruel as it may sound, Aries had a point. For him to emerge from this incident clean, he must let his people take the fall. In other words, she wanted him to use their remains as a stepping stone and stand atop the piled-up corpses of his people.

    "So, what will be your decision, your highness?" She asked after a minute of silence. "Will it be you? Or the crown prince?"

    Ismael swallowed the frustrating tension building up in his throat. Her question wasn''t the toughest question he had heard, but words were stuck in his throat. Under a different circumstance, he was certain it wouldn''t be this hard to answer the question, as it was obvious.

    However, this wasn''t a situation that favored him. This predicament was something he needed to treat with all seriousness and put his stakes. Otherwise, it''ll just be a total loss on his end.<sub> </sub>

    He just had one chip left.

    "How do I emerge from this clean?" he inquired after a few more minutes. Aries smiled as she nodded, pleased that he had finally decided.

    "Although the eighth prince is one of your people, it is still not enough for them to pin you downpletely. The reason the crown prince waited for a chance for you to meet the chief of justice was to use you of bribery and an attempt of obstruction of justice. However, since the arrest was executed in haste and Sir Conan saved you right on time. It will put the crown prince at a setback," she exined, reviewing the situation aloud. "Since you weren''t dragged back to the imperial pce, there''s no evidence to prove their usations."

    "But that isn''t enough. They will still put me in questioning and knowing the crown prince, he will surely do something just so I''d fall. Fleeing isn''t the best choice as well," argued Ismael.

    He was at a loss in here and honestly, he didn''t know how Aries would turn things around. They were just at a grave disadvantage where every route had one ending: the gallows.

    "Yes, that''s true. Fleeing now will only make you guilty, and thus, you''ll be on the run forever. That is why you have to return to the Jade Pce, your highness." His brows furrowed while she smiled. "Once they notice the carriage that is ought to bring you back to the pce is dyed, the crown prince will send out a search. But I am certain no one will search the Jade Pce. Why would they? You shouldn''t be there in the first ce."

    Aries arched a brow as her lips stretched. "Let''s take them by surprise once you get out of your chambers, requesting for an emergency court meeting by the shocking news of the eighth prince''s involvement in the illegal gambling operations."

    "Whatбн?" Ismael was following her n closely, but couldn''t help but get lost midway. Aries simplyughed and cast Conan a nce, who managed to make Ismael forget he was present all along.

    "Putting on an act will not save me. I''m certain they will still drag me for questioning!"

    "Haha, your highness." Aries shook her head as she waved. "I didn''t say you will not be questioned. However, that is what we want. We need them to question you бк it''s even better if they treated you terribly in the process. You might inflict more bruises than you already did, but the sacrifice will be worth it."

    "What I''m telling you is, you must do your best as if your life is on the line at your acting tomorrow. Because once you regain your freedom after giving out the alibi no one else had seening, Joaquinбн will have nothing else to do but grit his teeth and take a step back," she continued as a glint flickered across her eyes with a smile dominating her face.

    "An alibi that no one else had seeningбн?" his eyes narrowed as the space between his brows creased. "Just what kind of alibi will grant me freedom from all of this? No one will believe me if I say I was in the Jade Pce all along."

    "Of course, no one will. However, I didn''t say you were there all night!" Aries raised her brows and what came out of her mouth next caused his eyes to dte and his jaw to drop.

    "See? Even you didn''t see thating, right?" Sheughed in delight, enjoying the sight of Ismael after hearing the alibi he would use to clear his name.

 Chapter 212 [Bonus Chapter: Summoning Pen]A Shocking News

    There was nothing more annoying than to have victory, only to watch it slip away when it was within your reach. Joaquin was confident Ismael and his annoying people would crumble down tonight. But s, when he returned to the inner pce after his visit from the Vida residence, the knights who were supposed to bring Ismael back to the inner pce hadn''t arrived yet.

    "Your Highness. We had seized the gambling house and the eighth prince is now in our custody," reported Roman, the seventh prince and also Joaquin''s soldier as thetter jumped out of his steed.

    "What about the third prince?" Joaquin asked, handing the reins of his steed to another knight to guide it back to the stables. His inquiry instantly brought confusion to the scarred face of the seventh prince.

    "Wasn''t he with you?"

    The second thest word escaped Roman''s plum lips, Joaquin frowned. He stayed with Modesto for a bit before he set off while Ismael was escorted back to the inner pce. There was no way he would arrive earlier than them.

    "Send out a search party. I have a bad feeling about this," he ordered before he marched towards the busy inner pce where the knights were dragging everyone who was arrested in the gambling house. "What an annoying bastard."

    "Yes." Roman stayed on the spot, eyes following the retreating figure of the crown prince. He had served his brother to understand the sudden shift of mood of the crown prince. Something they hadn''t expected must''ve happened.

    With that thought in mind, the seventh prince gestured to the knights nearby toe forth.

    "Prepare a search party to look for the group who arrested the third prince," he ordered firmly. "Make haste. We can''t let the mastermind get away."

    "Yes, your highness!"

    As the knights who received the order hightailed to execute it, another one who came from the pce approached him. After a formal greeting, the knight walked closer to Roman to report an incident. The second Roman heard it, his eyes slowly dted.

    "Ry the news to the crown prince. I''ll go see the situation first."

    <strong>********</strong>

    <strong>[Lazuli Pce]</strong>

    The piercing sound of ss shattering resonated across the sitting room. Broken porcin scattered on the floor while Inez was gassing out, palms on the edge of the table, eyes bloodshot.

    "Your Highness, the eighth prince, is seized under the charges of corruption and lists of serious felonies. There''s nothing much we can do. They fell right into the crown prince''s trap." A man wearing a veil covering half of his lower face stood in front of the shut door. His eyes fixated on Inez''s back before he lowered his head slightly.

    "The seventh prince arrived even before us. They were a step ahead, so I retreated since it''ll be dangerous if we tried to go up against the seventh prince."

    Hearing his report, Inez ground her teeth. Her hands on the surface of the desk curled into a fist.

    "Ismaelбн" she seethed as she ground her teeth. "бн you foolish bastard."

    "Your Highness."<sub> </sub>

    "Shut up!" she red at the knight in ck. "How can I shake hands with that crown prince? I can''t be just one of his pawns. I can''t even stand him."

    Inez scoffed as she breathed through her gritted teeth, seething in anger at Ismael''s foolishness. She already knew Ismael wouldmit a grave mistake. However, she didn''t fathom he would be this stupid as to willingly step his foot in Joaquin''s traps.

    What Ismael did was akin to surrendering his power to Joaquin, and that was what angered her. Inez''s influence in the royal court wasn''t solid enough for her to stand up against Joaquin. Now, they were telling her that Joaquin had won the race?

    Unbelievable!

    "No. I can''t let this happen. Ismael shouldn''t бк" she was cut off when a loud knock came from outside the sitting room. Even the knight standing in front of it furrowed his brows, receiving orders from Inez to let it in when they came to know it was herdy-in-waiting.

    <o>,m "Speak! Make sure it is important and is worthy of banging the door." Inez''s voice was crisp the second herdy-in-waiting came inside. The middle-aged woman who stood by the door had a paleplexion, and when she raised her head to meet Inez''s eyes, thetter narrowed her eyes.</o>

    "Your Highness." Thedy-in-waiting was panting, swallowing down a mouthful of air to calm herself down from the shocking news she just received.

    "Speak! What sort of problem is it?"

    "The бк the eighth prince''s quarters бк a fire broke out in the eighth prince''s quarters!"

    "What?" Inez took a few seconds to process the news. "A fire?"

    "Yes, Your Highness. Princess Violet and the young princes were still inside, but the fire had spread so quickly!"

    This time, Inez''s eyes went round as her brain suddenly went nk. Her shock wasn''t because she was anywhere concerned about Carlos'' wife or her nephews, but because the eighth prince''s quarter was still rtively close to the Sapphire Pce; the ce where the crown princess resided.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Meanwhile, in the small eighth prince''s pceбн

    Knights and servants scampered around as they tried to put out the fire that had engulfed the pce in a matter of minutes. When the seventh prince arrived, the entire ce was already on fire, giving light across its surrounding. Roman gazed at it with dted eyes, unable to conceal the shock and fear flickering across his eyes.

    "Princess Violet," he whispered without realizing it, watching everyone carry buckets of water. "Noбн"

    But by the second he realized this wouldn''t be enough and he should go inside to save the princess, he stopped as a loud explosion from a particr room inside the pce put a pause to everyone trying to stop the fire.

    Roman raised an arm and when he lowered it, his eyes searched the part where the explosion came from. His heart instantly sank the second his eyesnded on fireing out of the window.

    It was Princess Violet''s room.

 Chapter 213 A Close Call

    <strong>[SAPPHIRE PALACE]</strong>

    Gertrude trembled under the sheet, lying on the crown princess''s bed. When Aries left, she needed to pretend to be Aries, so if anyone took a peek, they would see a figure lying on the bed. But what Gertrude didn''t know was that the longer Aries was away, her anxiety continued to increase with every passing second.

    "Mydyбн" came out a muffled, nervous voice, paralyzed on the bed. "Where are you?"

    She had been hearing noises outside for minutes now. However, she was too scared to get up, afraid that once she did and someone suddenly barged inside the room, they would see the crown princess''s maid and not Aries.

    "What is going on?"

    Her breath hitched as her blood instantly ran cold when she heard someone knock on the door in a panic. Gertrude''splexion instantly turned pale and her body stiffened as she heard servants outside.

    "Your Highness, a fire broke out in the eighth prince''s quarters. The fire continues to spread and we must evacuate at once!" announced the nervous voice outside. Gertrude could still hear a few voices, causing her anxiety to shoot up.

    Although the servants outside sounded fairly worried, no one dared to enter the room without permission. Well, that was because the fire hadn''t reached the vicinity of the Sapphire Pce and they simply had to evacuate just in case.

    "Your Highnessбн!" the servants knocked once again in an attempt to wake up the crown princess.

    The louder the knock on the door got, the more frightened and anxious Gertrude felt. All she could do was tremble under the nket, hoping for Aries to arrive sooner. One thing that Gertrude was certain of was that once the situation escte, the people outside the room would have no choice but to force their way in to save the crown princess.

    That would be the worst-case scenario if Aries didn''t return on time.

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> outside the crown princess room, a few servants and butlers paced back and forth nervously. The entire Sapphire Pce was nearly tossed upside down, with everyone panicking about the fire. Although the Sapphire Pce was surrounded by a vast expanse, the eighth prince''s quarter was still rtively close.

    With a fire as wild as that, it wouldn''t be impossible if it crawled to the Sapphire Pce. Although knights and more servants put up precautions just in case that would happen, it was still safer if everyone evacuated the ce early on.

    "Should we go in?" one of the maidservants turned her head to the rest standing in front of the door. "But the crown princess might punish us if we barge into her chambers without her permission."

    They looked at each other, bearing conflicting emotions in their eyes. If not for the fact that the crown princess could be unreasonable and what she might do to them scared them, they wouldn''t have been hesitating outside. After all, the fire hadn''t reached the vicinity of the Sapphire Pce, and urging Aries even before things would escte could anger her.

    Their intention might be good, but Aries might perceive it differently. Thus, this dilemma.

    "Knock again. Her Highness is probably just fast asleep," said the other female servant while jerking her chin up.

    "Alright." The maid nodded and took a deep breath before she knocked on the door again. "Your Highness, a fire broke out in the eighth prince''s quartersбн"

    Just like what she had been saying, the maid repeated her report and the reason they should evacuate at once, but to no avail. There was no response from the inside, causing the maid to look at the others in distress. While they contemte what they should do aside from knocking, which was proven ineffective, the butler caught a group of knights marching in their direction.<sub> </sub>

    "What are you all doing?! Where is the crown princess?" asked the leading knight, which everyone recognized as the knight who had just gained the title of the captain today.

    "The crown princess is still inside, perhaps, asleep!" a butler answered in distress.

    "What?!" the captain frowned as soon as they reached the door. "Haven''t you heard how the fire spreads quickly?!"

    He gazed at the shut doors with sharp eyes. Since he had just be the captain, he knew he needed to keep the momentum. However, knowing the crown princess'' temperament, he needed to approach this with the same urgency and politely.

    "Get out." He pushed the maid in front of the door with his arm before facing it. He put his fist up to his lips, clearing his throat, standing straight with his chin held high.

    "Your Highness, this is Climaco, the captain of the second squadron, and your loyal knight. A fire broke out in the eighth prince''s quarters and it is spreading quickly. We''re afraid it will reach the Sapphire Pce soon. Therefore, you must evacuate for your safety."

    Climaco, the lucky knight who just became the captain because of Aries, announced with a full voice. He waited and when a minute flew by without receiving a word inside; he nced at everyone. They all showed a conflicted expression as if telling him ''we had tried.''

    "Your Highness, please forgive my impertinence, but I will have to force my way in," he dered and waited for another minute before he nced at his men. "Open the doors."

    "Yes, captain!" the knights bowed while Climaco took a step back, letting the knights kick the door open. It only took three kicks from three knights for the door to fly open.

    Everyone was anxious, but Climaco didn''t hesitate to go inside to see why the crown princess hadn''t woken up despite the noises. The crown princess room was a joint room. One side was where the set of couches was ced and also where the knights and servants intruded first, and then on the other side was where the bed was.

    When he pivoted on his heel to see the area where the bed was ced, everyone who came in froze. Their eyesnded on the woman rising from the bed, holding a quilt to cover her bare top, and looking back at them with confusion. Knights and butlers, who only had a glimpse of her shoulder de and a bit of her inked back, blushed, looking away in embarrassment.

    They didn''t know the crown princess sleeps naked! No wonder the crown prince kept returning to the crown princess''s room every single night. She was hot.

    Aries ran her hand through her golden hair to the side, tilting her head. "Suddenly barging into my room without my permissionбн I hope this action is more important than your own life," came out a coarse voice as she fluttered her eyshes.

    Climaco cleared his throat and lowered his head so he wouldn''t get distracted by the beauty on the bed. Just like what they had been announcing outside the door, he repeated the report.

    "A fire broke out?" Aries scoffed as her eyes glossed over everyone standing on the other side of the room. "Leave. I''ll go change first."

    To their relief, Aries didn''t throw a huge fit as she waved for them to leave. So, with respect, they left the room and waited outside for her to finish wearing something.

    What everyone failed to notice was a hem of a dress sticking out under the bed as Gertrude hid there whilst covering her lips to not make the slightest sound.

    ''That''s a close call,'' she thought because Aries just arrived one minute before they all entered, just taking off her top with her trousers still on.

 Chapter 214 Hitting Two Birds With One Stone

    Letting Princess Violet flee the imperial pce was not enough. Aries wouldn''t allow the kind princess to live a life where she would constantly look over her shoulder.

    And for that to happen, Princess Violet and her children must die.

    ''I''m d she found the courage,'' Aries mumbled to herself while staring at the fire ascending to the sky, creating thick smoke that reigned over the night sky.

    She stood in the vast expanse connecting the Sapphire Pce and the eighth prince''s quarters. After evacuating the pce she resided in, Aries stubbornly insisted on seeing the fire up close. So once Gertrude regrouped with her with Curtis being carried on the knight''s back, they headed to where they were now.

    Everyone was busy putting out the fire and only a few weren''t helping. Aries nced around, catching the seventh prince''s Roman, who was also the crown prince''s sword, leading everyone to calm the fire. This prince rarely removed his metal helm as he wanted to hide the ugly scar across his face, but now that he removed it, Aries could tell the desperation stered on his face.

    ''Poor seventh prince,'' she thought, knowing the seventh prince''s feelings towards Violet.

    It was not like anyone told Aries about it. It was just that she had stayed with Joaquin, so she was forced to see the things she wanted and didn''t want. One of them was Aries''s observation in Roman every time the eighth prince''s name would be mentioned. This suspicion rose when Princess Violet visited Aries for the first time and wasn''t caught because Roman was her lookout.

    Aries hadn''t cleared this interesting connection until she became the crown princess. Although she only met Roman once during her first dinner with the royal family, that dinner proved that Roman was indeed in love with his sister-inw. She saw it in his eyes every time he would nce in the same direction where Violet was sitting and how those same eyes glint every time Carlos spew his nonsense remarks towards women.

    So this fire wasn''t only to save Violet and making sure no one woulde after her. But also, to cripple the crown prince''s sword to vulnerability.

    ''Heh...'' Aries mentally smirked, holding the shawl around her as she raised her eyes at the pce now engulfed with a wildfire. ''Violet had escaped and Roman would not have the time to enjoy their nonexistent victory. I wonder what would Carlos''s expression if he hears that his wife and children died?''

    Aries quirked a brow when she saw another group of people approaching the area. She instantly caught the ashen expression of Enrique, the fourth prince, one of Ismael''s henchmen.

    ''This oneбн'' her eyes narrowed slightly, watching the fourth prince''s knights help in putting out the fire while he stood motionless in shock. Enrique, the fourth prince, was an aloof man, and also a smart one.

    He was someone who was hard to read. Thus, suspicious.

    ''Things are getting more interesting.'' She nodded internally, shifting her eyes to another group from the other side. It was Inez and then, one after another, more royalties and people came to help put out the fire. As she studied everyone around, Aries purposely ignored Inez, despite feeling thetter''s gaze.

    Instead, Aries just kept looking around, as there was one person she was waiting to arrive. Her lips curled up and her eyes automatically softened in relief when she caught Joaquin''s towering figure approaching.

    ''Oh, my husband. He''s safeбн sadly.''<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin was ordering everyone to help, bringing more knights with him to stop the fire from spreading. He looked busy and was obviously acting out of concern, although histe arrival spoke that he didn''t care much about the princess. Aries was certain the crown prince was concerned with something else.

    ''This is what happens when you already had too much on your te and someone put more on it,'' she thought, staring at Joaquin''s figure until he finally noticed her gaze. ''I hope you don''t feel full anytime soon, Joaquin. Because I''ll keep adding stuff on your te.''

    When the crown prince set his eyes in the direction where he felt this indescribable gaze, his eyes instantly locked with his wife. Aries pressed her lips and forced a smile on her seemingly pale face. She looked a little shocked, not knowing Aries was pale because of the adrenaline throughout the night and rushing back into this Sapphire Pce.

    "Focus on putting out the fire and make sure it won''t spread and affect the closest pce around," he ordered with a wave before marching in Aries''s direction.

    "Circe," he called and held her shoulders as soon as he stood in front of her. His eyes scanned her from head to toe, noticing how she was forcing herself to keep up the strong facade despite the shock in her eyes.

    "Are you alright?" he inquired under his breath, squeezing her biceps lightly.

    "I am," she replied with a nod. "Are you? I was a little worried when I didn''t see you around. I sent someone to look for you to make sure you''re fine."

    p "Of course...e here." He let out another exhale as he pulled her into the safety of his embrace. "Why would you be worried about me? I don''t live there."</anda>

    Aries rested the side of her head on his shoulder, lowering her glinting eyes to hide them. "Of course, I know that. However, with a fire suddenly breaking out in one of the royalty''s quarters, you can''t me me for getting worried about my husband," she exined in a soft voice, hands on his hip, trembling uncontrobly.

    "I wasбн scared, Joaquin."

    "It''s alright now." Like a dutiful husband, Joaquin rubbed her back, feeling the vibration of her body against his body. "I''m here now, and we''re both fine."

    He patted her back gently to calm her down and stop her from trembling. However, his eyes that were looking around didn''t bear the same emotions as his voice. If anything, his mind was drifting elsewhere, somewhere more important than coaxing his wife, who was also his backup tool to use in power.

    ''Ismaelбн that cunning bastard.'' бк pushing all the me to Ismael as Joaquin received word that the carriage that was supposed to take Ismael back in here as a prisoner was nowhere to be found. There weren''t any traces of the group or any sign they were ambushed.

    It was as though they disappeared without a trace.

    That only meant one thing for Joaquin. Ismael had another card up his sleeve and this fireбн was somewhat a little too perfect of a coincidence.

 Chapter 215 Who Is The Maddest Of Them All?

    As the crown princess and the crown prince tangled in an embrace, Inez, who rushed in here and nned to check on Aries under the facade of checking the fire, stared at the two figures coldly. She had already noticed the shock in the crown princess'' eyes while she stood in that spot, looking around like a lost child.

    However, just when she was about to approach Aries, she noticed how thetter smiled gently as relief clouded her features. When Inez shifted her eyes to where the crown princess was looking, her eyes glinted upon catching Joaquin''s figure.

    It took Joaquin minutes to realize Aries''s presence, and when he finally noticed the crown princess, he approached her, acting as the hero. Although the crown prince was simply acting as a doting husband, worried for his wife, it left a nasty taste in the ninth princess''s mouth.

    ''If only I know, I''m certain he started this fire,'' Inez thought, clicking her tongue secretly, keeping her bitter eyes on Joaquin, embracing Aries with eyes full of contempt. Aries couldn''t even see her husband''s unaffectionate eyes as she basked in the safety of his embrace.

    ''What a fool,'' she muttered, peeling her eyes away from those eyesores to the pce engulfed with fire. The longer she stared at the fire, the more theories came to her head.

    ''Now that I think about it, why would Joaquin burn this ce and kill Carlos''s wife and children?'' she wondered, brows creasing. ''That doesn''t make sense.''

    As far as Inez knows, Joaquin had cornered Ismael and his people. Thest thing she heard was Carlos being dragged to prison. Although she didn''t hear anything about Ismael, she was certain his fate would also be the same. So, there was no need to kill Princess Violet if they were all doom in the morrow.

    ''Unlessбн something Joaquin didn''t expect happened.'' Her eyes sharpened as she nced at Joaquin, who finally released Aries from his embrace. Her eyes then caught the fourth prince helping the knights bymanding them to move faster.

    It was no surprise that the fourth prince woulde out of this incident safely since Enrique was a smart one. Although everyone knew, without a doubt, his vote would go to Ismael, Enrique was careful enough to save himself if worsees to worst.

    "Interesting," she whispered, snapping her eyes before pivoting on her heel to walk away.

    "Your Highness," the knight standing behind her called when he noticed that the ninth princess was leaving.

    "I have nothing else to do here. Lend everyone a hand and put out the fire so it won''t spread. Everyone will be busy tomorrow and I needed rest." Inez waved and simply cast the knight an indifferent side-eye.

    "Yes, Your Highness." The knight bowed before he watched Inez walk away with a few of her servants following her trail. When the knight raised his gaze up at the burning pce, his eyes glinted.

    What Inez said was correct.

    Once morninge, everyone would be twice as busy. First, the matters regarding the arrest of the eighth prince Carlos and the fourth prince Ismael, and then this fire. The first one was already something, but with this fireбн not only it was a headache for the ninth princess, but it would also be a troublesome matter the crown prince had to deal with.

    Everyone, not just Inez''s personal knight, had one realization.

    The seemingly predictable oue, which was Joaquin''s total victory for tonight, changed. This fireбн was the proof he didn''t win the round.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>So the question remained; who did?</strong>

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ Emperor''s Pce ]</strong>

    In the balcony of the emperor''s room sat Abel on the railings. His feet dangling outside swayed back and forth leisurely, his palms on either side of him, eyes on the huge ''bonfire'' where the party was at.

    "Hahaбн" came out an amused chuckle with his lips closed. "I reckoned this event is a total victory. She makes me proud."

    Abel rocked his head as he chuckled in delight. He had been watching everything unfold from this spot. Although he didn''t see everything from everyone''s perspective, he had a good grasp of what happened tonight.

    "Conan is really good at this, and my darling dear, pulled it off just perfectly," he intoned, thinking that this resulted from Conan and Aries''s scheming brains. "Isaiah, what do you think? Conan is better than you in ying this role, right?"

    He looked heavenward, catching a figure standing on the roof motionless. Thetter''s board shoulders that he tried to hide under the cloak were reckoned a total failure, as there was only one person Abel had met with such distinct shoulders.

    Isaiah didn''t even shoot Abel a look as he kept his eyes in the bright direction where there was a fire. He kept his mouth shut, making one unable to distinguish what could possibly go in his head.

    "Your Majesty, you should die." Abel frowned at the out-of-the-blue suggestion. This time, Isaiah gazed down at the emperor, who was looking up at him leisurely.

    "Conan is slowly returning to his old ways, and it''ll be better if we switch our roles again."

    "Why don''t you switch roles now?" the emperor''s frown grew worse, averting his eyes away from him to where he was initially looking at. "I don''t want Eustass Silvestri to die just yet. You and Conan can switch roles if he wants to be my personal hellhound again. After all, it had always been that way, isn''t it? I am the only one who can switch roles with me, but anyway, Maganti is surely interesting in many ways I could never fathom."

    "I might end up dead!" he added and smirked.

    Isaiah''s eyes glinted. "Your Majesty."

    "Don''t fret, Isaiah. I might, but I won''t. I''m far too invested in what I had seen so far. It somehow satisfies me from stepping in." The side of Abel''s lips curled up into a smirk, eyes squinting slightly. "You should just focus on your investigation while I enjoy myself watching and anticipating who will be the maddest of them all."

 Chapter 216 Oh, Violet...

    "Bring the crown princess a ss of water."

    Joaquin nced at the maid, who returned with them while he escorted Aries back to the Sapphire Pce. Since everyone helped put out the fire, they somehow calmed it down. So when they were certain it wouldn''t spread, he escorted his wife back to the Sapphire Pce for her to rest for the night.

    "Thank you," Aries expressed, sitting on the edge of the mattress and smiling meekly at him. Joaquin perched on her side, nodding at her as a response. "Will you stay for the night?"

    "As much as I want to, I have a duty to make sure everything is in order." He sighed and raised his hand to her side, brushing her cheek with his thumb. "I''ll visit you once things settled down."

    Her lips pressed into a thin line. "I know," cradling his wrist, keeping her eyes on him. "Joaquin, is there something going on I must know about?"

    "There''s none that is worthy of your concern."

    "Are you sure?"

    "Of course. Everything is under control," he affirmed with a slight nod. "Just rest for tonight. With everything that took ce tonight, I''ll be busy in a few days. I''ll see you when I had the time."

    Aries simply looked at him while biting her inner lower lip. Her lips parted, but then she closed them again before she nodded reluctantly.

    "Alright," she breathed out, averting her eyes away from him.

    Seeing her expression and how she fought herself from probing more was so realistically believable that Joaquin momentarily forgot the person who owned this face. The thought of Aries being possibly involved didn''t even cross his head as there wasn''t the slightest hint she was involved.

    He let out another sigh and cupped her cheeks. Joaquin searched for her eyes and only spoke when he held her gaze.

    "I have everything under control," he repeated reassuringly. "You don''t have to worry about anything. Trust me."

    "Iбн just promise me one thing, Joaquin." Aries sported a mixed expression as she held his wrist. "You can tell me anything if things are going bad for you. I''ll surely help you with all my power. Although I am now your wife, one word from me and my brother will surely extend his hand to help you."

    p "This might sound rude, and I didn''t mean to question yourpetence. All I''m saying is we had our options. I''m your ally at the end of the day," she added sincerely.</anda>

    The two of them stared at each other for a moment before Joaquin nodded. Of course, what she remarked was rude and could be perceived differently, but he understood his wife was simply being sincere. It was a good alternative at the end of the day.

    "I''ll keep that in mind." Joaquin nced at the maid, who returned with a ss of water. "For now, rest. You''ll need it for tomorrow."

    Aries just nodded as an answer, raising her head when Joaquin pushed himself up. Thetter gazed down at her once again before patting her head mildly. After he reminded the maid to make sure that the crown princess should befortable, Joaquin left without ever looking back at her.

    Meanwhile, Aries remained silent as she kept her eyes on his back. When Joaquin was out of sight, she sported a subtle smile as she gazed at the maid, who was handing her the ss of water.

    "You can now leave me. I''ll be fine."<sub> </sub>

    "Yes, Your Highness."

    With that being said, the maid left to fulfill the crown princess'' wish. Gertrude was helping Curtis settle, so the maid had to make sure to please Aries for her to get noticed.

    Once alone, Aries finally breathed out in relief. She ced the ss of water on the nightstand before throwing herself back onto the bed.

    "What a night," she eximed, tossing an arm to cover her eye, leaving one open. Slowly, the side of her lips curled up into a sinister grin, biting her bottom lip to suppress herughter.

    Oh, how she enjoyed tonight''s activities. But what delighted her the most was the thought of tomorrow.

    "The fun had just begun." Aries reached her hand out. "This isn''t the worst that wille in your way."

    Her lips stretched until her teeth were showing, a smile that rarely appeared on her face from someone who was used to smiling with her lips closed. It was satisfying to see Joaquin contain his anger while coaxing his wife, whom he saw as one of his many options. Aries just had to make sure he was aware she was also his option.

    Doesn''t matter if she was the first or thest. So long as he was aware, her ns would still be in motion.

    ''Everythingбн slowly but surely, will be put in their ce and before he knows it, it''ll be checkmate.'' Her slightly squinting eyes glinted once again before she cover her eyes to rest. ''Tonight will probably be the second night I''d be able to rest peacefully.''

    Aries covered her eyes entirely with her arm while chuckling.

    Knockбн knockбн

    Her brow arched, peeling her arm away from her eye and looking in the window. It was a bird бк not Morro бк knocking its beak on the window. Aries tilted her head before she pushed herself up and flung her legs out towards the window. When she opened the window, she was met with a gust that had the scent of smoke from the fire in the eighth prince quarter.

    "What is it?" she wondered, untying the huge roll tied around the bird''s feet. As soon as it came off, the bird fluttered its wings and flew away, leaving a feather behind. Aries simply nced at it before setting her eyes back on the rolled paper in her hand.

    For reasons unknown, Aries carefully opened the letter before the side of her lips curled up into a smirk. Her eyes fell on the words;

    [ I kept this, but I didn''t know what to do with it, so I thought you can use it to its full potential. It is not much for what you had done to me and my children, but it maye in handy in the future. I sincerely pray for your safety, Your Highness.

    Violet ]

    Aries snapped her eyes and gazed at her right hand. Inside the rolled parchment was a seal, and inside the letter was something it woulde in handy in the future.

    "Oh, Violetбн if only you''re a little ambitiousбн" she smirked as her eyes glinted, because surely what Violet left woulde in handy.

 Chapter 217 I Have Good News For You

    The next dayбн

    Last night was a lot to ur on a single night. The arrest of the eighth prince was already a matter that could rattle the royal court бк the royal court which was mostly filled by Joaquin''s people and had a notion of the n. But no one expected the turn of events from bad to worse with the fire and Ismael missing.

    Without Ismael in their custody and not showing up shamefully from his arrest in the Vida residence, the bribery they wanted to charge him for would be lessбн credible. It would be all hearsay since there were no eyewitnesses, and even if the people in the chief justice would stand on the stand, they could also be in trouble with Modesto, since it was easy to change the public''s opinion and make them appear they were bribed or threatened once a seed of doubt was nted sessfully.

    Joaquin would surely get caught up with that. Hence, it was a problematic issue on the crown prince''s end. If only Aries knew she was certain men in the royal court were filled with anxiety as they debated amongst themselves.

    It was a failureбн not entirely, though. They still had the eighth prince, but he was simply the coteral damage.

    "I seeбн" Aries nodded in understanding as she received a report from Climaco, the current captain of the second squadron tasked to protect the crown princess. She raised her gaze with a teacup in her hand, ncing at the captain who stood several feet away from the divan in her chambers where she was sitting.

    "The inner pce is still in unrest with the fire and the eighth prince''s arrest. With the fire that huge, it is no surprise that the public caught it immediately. Hence, they were demanding an exnation since they feared the imperial pce was under a terrorist attack," he added, giving out the details to the crown princess as she asked him to see the situation in the inner pce.

    Aries was a crown princess and ordering him to see the situation was something that wasn''t suspicious. It was not like she asked him to investigate further than the general knowledge. It was Climaco who went to extra lengths to get additional information to stay in her good graces.

    Little did he know that was what Aries wanted. She simply wanted to know if things went just as nned, but since she asked someone who just got promoted to the captain, she was certain she''d get more than what she had asked.

    "Keep an eye on the situation in the inner pce. It is a delicate time for the crown prince. Report to me if you notice anything out of the ordinary," Aries ordered while sipping her morning tea leisurely.

    "Yes, Your Highness." Climaco bowed and snuck a nce at her. By the looks of it, Aries was pleased by his performance so far and didn''t take his intrusionst night to the heart.

    "I''ll be on my way, but I will keep my eyes and ears open."

    When Aries waved, Climaco turned around to leave. However, just as he took three steps, he halted and looked back.

    "Arrange a secret meeting with the eighth prince." His brow furrowed at her sudden order. "I don''t want anyone to hear about this meeting."

    "Your Highnessбн"

    Aries smirked as she studied his puzzled expression. "Just listen to my orders, Captain. Fret not. It''s not what you think it is. I merely want to help my husband in secret."<sub> </sub>

    Climaco pressed his lips in a hard line, hesitant to arrange this meeting she wanted. However, catching the confident air around the crown princess, he bowed.

    "Yes, Your Highness."

    "Don''t disappoint me." Her lips stretched wider, but her smile was someone that was hard to read. Was it out of happiness? Satisfaction? Or was it a sneer? Either way, Climaco bowed and left to execute the order.

    <o>,m When he was by the door, Climaco gazed down at the two-three people entering the room. It was Gertrude, Aries''s personal maid, Curtis, her pet, and a knight who was supporting Curtis to walk. Gertrude bowed slightly at him as a greeting, but no words were exchanged as Climaco stepped aside to give way to the three.</o>

    As Gertrude and the knight were assisting Curtis to take slow and careful steps, Climaco looked back, only to see Aries smile. This might be too redundant, but Aries truly has a beauty men might die for. Seeing her smile subtly was enough to capture anyone''s heart.

    However, Climaco finally saw the difference between Aries''s smile at him and his pet. It wasn''t a great difference, but if he was correct. Aries saw Curtis as someoneбн she should help to make herself feel better. Those whom she deemed capable, she would look at them in the eye and give them equal treatment.

    It might be apliment or favoritism, but for a prideful knight like him, it was the former. His eyes lit up with determination before he turned and walked away.

    As he did, Aries nced up and gazed at his back. A smirk resurfaced on her face for a split second before she smiled brightly at Curtis.

    "Come." She patted the space beside her. "Join me."

    It took quite some time for Curtis to join her since they weren''t just carrying him. They were simply assisting him, so he wouldn''t fall. So when Curtis sat down beside her, he was already sweating mildly.

    "Hand me a towel, Gertrude, and prepare us some snacks." She smiled at Curtis without casting Gertrude a look.

    "I will prepare it, Your Highness." Gertrude bowed, and she walked out of the chambers with the knight who helped her. As they left, Aries nced at the shut doors and smirked. When she set her eyes back to Curtis, the contempt hiding in her eyes resurfaced.

    "Curtis, how was your sleep?" she asked and held his hand, waiting for him to look at her with wide eyes. "I told you I have good news for you yesterday, right? Do you want to hear it?"

    A glint flickered across Aries''s eyes as her eyes drooped dangerously until they were partially closed. "This will be a good one. You''ll enjoy it."

 Chapter 218 Its Now Their Time

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    Everyone in the inner pce was kept on the hop with the matters on hand. One particr ce was the royal court, where ministers and people in power discuss the state of affairs. Despite attending court meetings without the presence of the emperor, it didn''t stop the greedy cutthroat individuals from trying to get the upper hand and control over everybody else.

    Joaquin remained silent around the long table where they gathered. His expression was dark, hands intertwined in front of his lips. He barely had sleepst night, and all these loud yelling and arguments filling up the temporary court hall were making his head hurt. They weren''t helping him in any way.

    ''No matter how hard and wide the search was conducted, Ismael and my men disappeared. There''s no trace of them.'' He thought, shunning all the other noises around him. ''Not to mention, the fire not only caused panic in the empire but also some think it''s my doing since I arrested Carlosбн''

    "How can this happen right under our noses бк"

    <strong>SLAM!</strong>

    Silence instantly dawned inside the courtroom as Joaquin mmed his hand on the table so hard it nearly broke. Everyone''s eyes shifted towards the crown prince, swallowing down a mouthful of saliva seeing his dark and dangerous expression.

    "For onceбн" Joaquin seethed as his pair of menacing eyes glossed over their faces. "бн spare me your barking and speak what is only necessary. Do you think arguing right now is helping? The eighth prince is caught up in a scandal that will also put the royal family in a tight spot. The third prince, who is suspected of being the mastermind, is nowhere to be found, and a fire broke out inside the imperial pce, taking the life of Princess Violet, her children, and everyone stationed in the pce."

    He nted his palms on the table, pushing himself up, eyes giving equal attention to all the men around the table.

    "I, the crown prince, am doing everything I can to put everything in order while you only care about washing your hands and pressing on the problem without presenting a proper resolution. How did this royal court had fallen into the hands of greedy individuals who can only think of how they will benefit from this crisis?" he scoffed, ridiculing them when they were all in the same boat. "The emperor''s health had been deteriorating and how am I going to face him if you lot fails бк"

    "Your Highness!!"

    Joaquin frowned when someone suddenly barged in the door, catching everyone''s attention as they turned their heads to the door. Hernan was catching up to his breathing as he bowed and rushed inside.

    "Please forgive me for this rude interruption, Your Highness, but somethingбн" Hernan, Joaquin''s aide, trailed off as his face crumpled at the thought.

    "Speak." Joaquin''s eyes darkened, knowing Hernan wouldn''t sport such expression if this news wasn''t worthy to get worried about.

    "Your Highness, it''s about бк"

    "Joaquin!!" Before Hernan could finish his sentence, everyone in the royal court heard a family angry voiceing from outside. As soon as Joaquin heard that voice, his eyes dted before his gaze shifted towards the entrance where Hernan had entered.

    <strong>BAM!</strong><sub> </sub>

    "Joaquin!"

    There, the person who barged into the royal court was the man they had been searching for all night! But unlike what he appearedst night, Ismael was seething in anger and confidence, as if he didn''t experience all that humiliation and revtion as he stormed inside the room without a care.

    "You!" Ismael reached his hand out, grabbing Joaquin by the cor.

    His action warranted apprehension from the knight as they surrounded him with their swords pointing at him. But he didn''t care. He looked at the surprised Joaquin straight in the eye, seething in anger, grabbing his cor tighter.

    "What the hell are you doing, Joaquin?" he inquired through his gritted teeth.

    "Hahбн" Joaquinughed in ridicule, finding everything hrious. "My brother, it should be me who is supposed to be asking such a question. What do you think you''re doing? To the crown prince?"

    "Spare me your hypocrisy, Your Highness. How can you frame Carlos for something he hasn''t done?"

    "Your Highness, the third prince. The eighth prince is facing the consequences of his actions." Joaquin tilted his head to the side while the corner of his lips curled up into a smirk. "But more than thatбн aren''t you a little bit too confident walking back in here when you''re under the suspicion of involvement in these illegal operations?"

    "Hahбн what?" Ismaelughed as he gripped the crown prince''s cor tighter. "Your Highness, the crown prince, just what will it take you to stop this madness? Not only did you arrest Carlos, but you also burned his wife and my nephews alive!"

    His eyes glinted with murderous intent, smoldering in anger. Sensing the increasing anger from the third prince, Roman, the crown prince''s sword had to step in.

    "Your Highness, the third prince, it seems you had forgotten. You are needed to be taken in for questioning and assaulting the crown prince can add more to the piling up charges on you."

    Ismaelughed as he nced at Roman. "Charges for me? Why? What did I do?"

    Roman narrowed his eyes as he nced at Joaquin, and then at the stunned crowd. All of them were surprised for various reasons. Some were shocked to see the third princeing back when they all thought he fled to hide, while others were surprised because of Ismael''s actions.

    He shouldn''t be here, throwing a huge fit like normal. Modesto, who was also among the crowd, gazed at Ismael wide-eyed. From everyone''s eyes, it seemed as though Ismaelбн didn''t go through what he went throughst night.

    "Bribery, obstruction of justice, alleged involvement in the illegal trades, and so on," Joaquin listed down the offenses under Ismael''s name. "Have you forgotten how you fled the scene and resisted arrest?"

    "Huh?" to everyone''s surprise, Ismaelughed and looked at everyone in shock, letting Joaquin go. "Apologies, brother, but I am not following. When did I resist arrest when no one came to the Jade Pcest night?"

 Chapter 219 He Can Vouch For Me

    "Apologies, brother, but I am not following. When did I resist arrest when no one came to the Jade Pce all night?"

    There was a long silence that descended almost instantly after Ismael''s remarks. Everyone studied the bafflement dominating the third prince''s face, and to be honest, they were just as confused as him.

    "What?" Ismael broke the silence with a scoff. "Come on. Every single one in this ce knows the eighth prince is innocent and is simply being framed by the real pest corrupting our Maganti Empire!"

    "With all due respect, Your Highness! Are you calling our crown prince a pest?! In this royal court?" yelled one of Joaquin''s spokespeople automatically, as that was his job.

    "Ha! Ha ha! Marquess, I didn''t say it was the crown prince. How can you assume so quickly when no name is mentioned?" the marquess nearly choked as Ismaelughed almost maniacally, shuddering in fear when he met Joaquin''s re.

    "I didn''t mention any name because I was unsure who was the real perpetrator that caused disharmony in the royal court. Marquess, by speaking without a second thought, I am starting to question the credibility of the men in this court! How can you mention the crown prince''s name in a way that might be misunderstood and put his reputation at risk? Unbelievable!"

    Ismael pped as he looked at everyone with equal ridicule and anger. When his eyes fell on Joaquin, the side of his lips curled up into a smirk. One look and he could tell Joaquin was utterly unhappy about the turn of events, but he was also aware that wasn''t enough to prove his innocence.

    "Your Highness, even if your ims are said to be true, you still had toply with the head of this investigation because the eighth prince is your henchmen." To save Joaquin some face, Hernan spoke in a hurry. "Your alibi of being in the Jade Pce all along is not enough to prove you''re there all night."

    The atmosphere on the court hit an all-time low. Hernan, and everyone who took part in Joaquin''s ns, were aware that they couldn''t convict Ismael easily by simply spewing words without evidence. Without the knights who arrested him, all allegations would remain as allegations. It would convince no one.

    It was smart of Ismael to show up, but there were certain they could still pin him down in another way. Unless Ismael had another alibi or someone who could prove his innocence, then the situation still favored Joaquin.

    Or what everyone believed.

    "Pleaseply with thew. It''ll be easier that way," Hernan continued before he nced at the knight in the courtroom. As if on cue, the knight bowed and marched to escort the third prince out of the room, but just as they approached, Ismaelughed.

    "Youбн" he forced a smile, although his eyes sharpened, looking around at everyone who was cornering him. "How can you lot consider this as inviting me for questioning when it is obvious you are arresting an innocent man?"

    Ismael shook his head as he raised his hands on either side of him. "Sure. Drag me out of here and torture me to your heart''s content. However, I assure you with all my power, you will pay for this humiliation."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Highness, we''re simply following the orders to impose thew of our Great Maganti Empire," answered the knight sternly, followed by the buzzing noises created by the crown prince''s people, telling him it was all for the sake of the empire.

    "What a bunch of foolsбн" Ismael mumbled before he nced at Joaquin, smirking for a split second, but made sure Joaquin would catch his sneer. "I didn''t say I was in the Jade Pce all night. If I was, I would''ve rushed to the eighth prince''s quarter that was being engulfed with fire and tried my best to save my sister-inw and my nephews."

    He paused as he looked around once again while the knights approached him. "I have faith in the justice system of our empire and I like to use my right as a citizen of this great country for a fair trial. I can prove my innocence sinceбн I spend almost my entire night catching up with my beloved father. He can vouch for me."

    The second thest word of his sentence left his lips, the knights who held his shoulders froze on the spot. Not just him, but everyone in the court hall needed several seconds to process his alibi.

    "His Majesty, the Emperor, invited me because he felt lonely. As his subject and a filial son, I obviously stayed with him throughout the night." Ismael smirked, setting his taunting eyes at Joaquin, whose eyes went round.

    Oh, what a sight to behold, he thought. Never in his life, Ismael fathomed he would ever see Joaquin so rattled.

    "You may question His Majesty. He will surely prove my innocence," he added confidently, offering his arms to the knights. "Go, arrest me and drag me out of here. I will remember your faces."

    Ismael nced at the knights standing on his side before his gaze veered in a particr direction. There, he caught Modesto looking at him wide-eyed. Ismael scoffed faintly but didn''t spare the man another second as he urged the knights to drag him like a felon.

    Both of them instantly stepped back. There was no way they would drag Ismael, knowing he would surely get out of this situation unscathed. By dragging the emperor''s name, things had surely turned for the worse.

    ording to the rules, since Ismael was a royalty, their trial must be taken with the utmost attention. Since he dared mention the emperor''s name to save himself, the emperor needed to confirm that. This method might not be the smartest move, but it was in Ismael''s situation.

    Others immediately thought that the emperor wouldn''t confirm or deny anything since he hadn''t participated in any of the court meetings and trials. That would only leave everything open, and since there was lingering doubt, Ismael would most likely find ways to emerge from this debacle alive. However, those very few who knew about the emperor''s situation looked at Ismael with wide and nk eyes.

    ''What do you know?'' Joaquin wondered as he held his breath, watching Ismael sneer at him while thetter let the knights escort him properly without dragging him out. ''Howбн?''

 Chapter 220 He Left No Room For Forgiveness

    <strong>Back in the Sapphire Pceбн</strong>

    "It sounds fun, right?" Aries chuckled as she told Curtis everything that would unfold in the royal court this morning бк which was already happening. "The royalties aren''t exempted by the Maganti Law, but they were privileged and follow certain pce rules. Joaquin knew that very well. That''s why he waited patiently to drag Ismael''s name through the mud."

    She leaned her side against the backrest of the divan, draping an arm over it. "So, dragging the emperor''s name, they had no other option but to confirm this from the emperor himself. Since he hadn''t gotten himself involved in the court matters and no one truly saw him aside from the crown prince, it''ll be harder to convict Ismael since there wasn''t anyone to mediate between the third prince and the crown prince."

    Thews of the Maganti Empire wereplicated, and it became moreplicated if the royalties were involved. Normally, if one didn''t have a witness, then that would be a problem for the person being tried. However, Ismael tantly dragged the emperor''s name with confidence.

    Therefore, the emperor must have to speak. Not only to confirm the legitimacy of Ismael''s ims but also to clean the emperor''s name and save face. Because if he didn''t, that only meant anyone could use the emperor''s name and get away with it.

    Unless they charge Ismael nothing and let all this go, letting Carlos take the fall.

    "When Sir Conan proposed this idea, I was just as shocked as them," she confessed, recalling the time Conan gave her a roadmap of routes Aries could take. They were just vague, but he mentioned that the emperor''s card could be used in times of need.

    He said so after his strenuous study in the Maganti Empire. He realized that the emperor''s health continued to "deteriorate." However, he also didn''t rule out the idea that the emperor had already perished. After all, aside from Joaquin, no one had seen the emperor.

    With the current state of affairs, it was not the wisest idea to announce the death of the emperor, and for Joaquin to take charge. Ismael still held a strong influence over the royal court beforest night''s events.

    Ismael turned the tides. Those who turned his back on him will surely rush back to him like dogs, trying to bootlick their way back to his good graces.

    "It''s crazy how men are so greedy in this ce, don''t you think?" Aries arched a brow as she cocked her head at Curtis, who was sitting beside her. "Back in Rikhill, we don''t have such a problem in the royal court. Sure, everyone was annoying, but they still have redeemable qualities in them. They stick to their beliefs, to the person who they think fits for the throne, and hold on to it even if it means death. Them and their families."

    "It can be called foolish, but that''s how Rikhill is formed. We fight and die for what we believed, even if it''s futile." Her eyes dropped until they were partially closed, watching Curtis hold a cookie with his shaking hands. She had been watching him pick up that same cookie that kept falling on hisp, but she didn''t help as she thought it would help his motor skills if he do it himself.

    "I can''t deny, though, that there is this small part of me that wished our people aren''t that foolish. For someone like meбн if only we all agreed to let me go and be the crown prince''s concubine, thenбн they were probably still alive and you wouldn''t end up like this."

    This time, the cookie fell on Curtis''sp once again. However, he didn''t pick it up instantly but turned his head in Aries only to see the utter sadness in her eyes.<sub> </sub>

    "Don''t worry, Curtis." She shed him a subtle smile, moving her arms to cup his cheek. "The thought of our homnd and everyone back home makes me long for them. This may sound selfish and cruel, but I am fine now, Curtis."

    Aries huffed and forced her lips to stretch broader. "I met people. They might not be the kindest people. Actually, they were bad people. However, no one came to me when I needed help aside from those devils." Her eyes softened this time, thinking about what sort of people helped her.

    "I''m no saint anymore, Curtis. Nor I was the same foolish woman who simply fantasized about a better world. I realized after everything that I went through, thatбн for peace to happen, someone must sully their hands." She brushed his lean cheek with her thumb. "I killed my people by resisting a powerful force and I can only make peace with that if I get even with those who put me through hell. For them, whose dreams died in fighting for me, and for you who survived all that, I will never forgive the Maganti."

    A glint flickered across her gentle eyes as a dangerous expression reced her gentle countenance. "Don''t worry about me, Curtis. My decisionsбн I regret none of them. The only regret I will ever know is if I hold back and let the murderer of my people walk away freely and let him live peacefully."

    "He left no room for forgiveness in my heart. Thus, I will give him zero mercy," she added.

    Although Curtis couldn''t speak, fear and worry mixed in his eyes, the longer he looked at the nonexistent remorse in Aries''s eyes. Aries then arched a brow when she heard a knock on the door before she saw Gertrude enter the chambers. Her lips curled up when she caught Climaco following behind her.

    "Your Highness, I had arranged your meeting using my connections in the knights guarding the penitentiary." Climaco bowed politely. When he raised his head, all he saw was Aries smiling in delight while nodding in understanding.

    "Gertrude, prepare me a beautiful dress. I don''t want to look pathetic in meeting the eighth prince."

    "I had already prepared three dresses Your Highness can choose from."

    "Great!" Aries pped excitedly as she stood up. "Let''s get ready then. The dutiful wife will do her duty as the crown princess and my husband''s wife."

    No one knew what she had nned in mind. Even Conan, who taught her how to scheme, didn''t have any idea of the additional ns Aries had juste up with not long ago. Whatever it was, though, one would understand because, just like everybody else, Aries wanted to keep the momentum.

    As promised, she would make the most out of this situation and she wasn''t done yet.

 Chapter 221 Beg

    Although Climaco, the new captain of the second squadron, was newly appointed as the captain, he was a knight for a long time. He had friends and connections among knights. So, using that, he arranged the crown princess''s meeting with the eighth prince''s prison cell in secret.

    Aries walked through the cold and narrowed path in the prison where they locked Carlos. Although it was broad daylight, the only light that shone on her path was the torches attached to the rough walls.

    ncing to her right, Aries caught a few prisoners hugging their knees in fear. To her left were prisoners who were either unconscious or barely alive; their wounds and mangled faces were enough for Aries to know they were tortured.

    Yet her expression remained aloof and cold.

    She didn''te for these felons who could be innocent or convicted ordingly. Her agenda was something else.

    Aries kept her eyes ahead, listening to the sound of her footsteps clip-clopping on the ground. The sound of water dripping onto the concrete floor and faint grunts echoing barely made this entire maze-like prison from total silence. It was chilly and anyone who was inside this ce would feel ustrophobic, but not Aries.

    When she stood in front of the darkest end of the prison, Climaco, who was following behind her, lighted up the torch near the cell. The second the light fought the heavy darkness reigning over this area, Carlos squinted his eyes and shielded them with his arms.

    She kept quiet, ncing at the knight. As if on cue, Climaco bowed and, without speaking a word, he marched away to give the two some privacy. Still, he was curious. What was the crown princess up to? Why would she secretly meet with Carlos?

    Carlos also thought the same when he looked up and saw the pair of cold emeralds gazing down at him from beyond the metal bars. What was she doing here?

    "What are you doing here?" he asked without beating around the bush, knowing he wouldn''t get answers by just wondering internally.

    "To check up on you." He sneered at her reply. "You don''t seem well, Your Highness, the eighth prince."

    "Is this some sort of mockery your husband made you do to make sure I know he is making fun of me?"

    "No бк"

    "Hah!" Carlosughed in mockery before wincing in pain, clutching his chest as if that would help him soothe the striking pain across it. Aries pursed her lips while studying the disheveled eighth prince.

    Although he still looked a lot better than all the prisoners she saw on her way, Carlos had fallen from his grace. He didn''t look as respectable with that ragged and dirty uniform, bruises across his face, tousled hair, and the speck of blood on his skin and clothes. He looked like someone who wrestled with someone in the mud.

    What a pitiful sight to behold.

    "This is fucking amusingбн that bastard. What are you looking at? Are you having fun that your husband бк"<sub> </sub>

    "Princess Violet is dead." Her eyshes drooped until they were partially closed as he froze. "A fire broke out in the eighth prince''s pcest night. Princess Violet, the two young princes, and almost everyone in the pce didn''t make it."

    "Whatбн?" His eyes were nk, mouth left ajar, trying to process the news she broke to him.

    "You heard me, right, Your Highness." Aries tried to sense if there were other living beings around that were listening and continued when she was certain it was just the two of them. "The reason you''re being held in here longer is that everyone is still settling the problem regarding the fire."

    <o>,m There was a very long and sniffling silence after her exnation. Carlos kept his nk eyes on the crown princess'' emotionless countenance. Her expression didn''t even change while rying the news to him, as if lives weren''t involved.</o>

    "Noбн" he shook his head when he recovered, gazing downward. "бн can''t be. My sonsбн Violetбн whyбн?"

    Aries watched him run his hand through his hair, mumbling words but unable toplete a sentence. Although Carlos wasn''t a good person and he was a terrible husband, one thing was for sure: he adored his sons and they admired their father. One of the reasons Violet had endured all the pain and sacrificed her happiness was for the sake of her sons as well.

    "I''m sorry for your loss, Your Highness."

    "No!" he yelled, grinding his teeth while ring daggers at her. "It''s you, isn''t it!? No, I mean, it''s your husband who burned my sons alive, isn''t it?!?"

    She remained silent as his fury continued to increase, spitting his hateful remarks toward her. Yet, her expression didn''t change, and she let him release his anger until he was panting.

    "The cause of the fire is still unknown, and the incident is still under investigation." He scoffed, but she ignored it and continued. "I am simply doing my job as the crown princess since I am the one who had spare time to break the news."

    "Don''t make meugh! You?! An outsider? Hah! I''ll make that fucking bastard and everyone who is involved in this pay. How dare theyбн"

    "How?" he trailed off when she raised a question, tilting her head to the side. "How are you going to make the person behind the fire pay if you''re locked inside this cell, Your Highness?"

    There was a moment of silence at her blunt inquiry as his mouth opened and closed. Of course, he knew he wasn''t capable of doing that and he was only saying things an angry person would say. She didn''t have to point it out.

    "Right now, no matter how angry you are, all your words are nothing but empty. You are no more than a crippled man. To be frank, it''s pathetic." His face instantly turned red at her remarks, but Aries simply let out a shallow breath as she shook her head slightly. "Your Highness, crippled people only have one thing they can do in this world."

    Aries paused, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly. "They beg for help."

 Chapter 222 Her Offer

    "They beg for help," Aries smirked, seeing how Carlos''s mouth fell open. "Why don''t you try it? Although I am an outsider, this alien is still the crown princess and the future empress. My words have value; it can change a life."

    Once again, silence descended on the already silent prison after Aries''s remarks. The side of her lips curled up, enjoying the shock dominating his slightly mangled face. Even though she didn''t know what happened, Aries already had a vague idea of how this man resisted his arrest, and Roman, the seventh prince, took the most out of it.

    "What are youбн?"

    "I am offering you help because I woke up this morning and felt generous," she exined with an air of nonchnce. "The firest night made me reflect on my actions and I am grateful that I am alive and am living the best time of my life. I believe in you, Your Highness. I don''t think what you''ve gone through is fair and I held you in the highest regard because you are the chief of defense... and the chief of defense wouldn''t be that foolish as to parade his involvement in his illegal activities if there is."

    Aries slowly squatted down to look at him at eye-level, leaning closer to the metal bars between them. "You can believe my words at face value or not бк your choice. However, my offer is only valid until I am in this ce. Once I leave, you''re on your own. After all, I don''t think the third prince can help; you know that, do you?"

    She tilted her head to the side, shing him a subtle smile. All he could do was listen and even if he wanted to mock her, his voice was stuck in his throat. Of course, he was aware that Ismael <strong>''might''</strong> be in the same situation. They were in the same boat.

    Who knows? Ismael might''ve been in one of the cells beaten ck and blue. If only he knew the situation outside was far different from what he thought, he wouldn''t look at Aries with conflict in his eyes while contemting her <strong>''generosity.''</strong>

    "What do you want from me?" he scoffed after a few minutes of silence, eyes slowly filling with ridicule. "Are you trying to give me a sliver of hope just so I dance to your tune like a fool? Never."

    "It''s alright if you think that way, but I am sincere when I said I want to help you." She sighed.

    "Hah! You? Why would you want to help me when we''re in opposition? Do you think you will be safe if your beloved husband falls?"

    "I didn''t say that. Same with I didn''t say we''re in opposition. Just because I married the crown prince doesn''t necessarily mean I am on his side, Your Highness. Don''t get me wrong, though. I am also not saying I am siding with the third prince."

    "Then, what?!"

    "Iбн am on my own side." She blinked almost innocently. "Although I am an outsider married to the crown prince for mutual benefits, I am now a citizen of the Maganti Empire and thus, I only side with the truth. I don''t y your game, Your Highness. People y mine where I make the rules."

    "Hahбн" his eyes glinted in ridicule at the confidence of her voice and demeanor. Surely, she was someone who lived up to her reputation in Haimirich. Beautiful, proud, and smart. He wasn''t so stupid as to think she didn''t have ulterior motives in offering help, but this arrogance was also somehow convincing in a strange way.

    "What do you think? Shall I help you, Your Highness?" she smiled subtly, only to receive a mocking re from him. "I''m not asking for too much in return. You should hear me out."<sub> </sub>

    "Stop going in a circle, crown princess. What the hell do you want from me?"

    The side of her lips curled up. "A confession."

    "Hah! Ha ha hahaha!" Her smile remained as his devious waves ofughter bounced across every corner of the prison. When hisughter subsided, Carlos looked at her in amusement. "A confession? Hahбн I knew you were ying with me and wasting my time."

    "Between you and me, it is me who is wasting my time in here," she pointed out as a matter of fact.

    "Just scram will you?" Carlos moved his face forward and stressed each word. "I will never confess to the crime I nevermitted."

    "Really?" she tilted her head, biting her tongue mildly. "Even if it means confessing, might help you?"

    This time, his brows furrowed while he studied her expression. The light danced on her side, giving him enough opportunity to see her cunning eyes.

    "Your Highness, I know confessing for the crimes will guarantee you to walk to the gallows and get executed via guillotine. But isn''t that the same if you plead innocent? The people who put you behind these bars will make sure you will get executed. So, why not plead guilty to get a lighter sentence?" Aries exined, resting her chin on top of the back of her hands that were on her knees. "I am an outsider, but I studied the Magantiw before setting foot in this empire. So, I know a royalty had a privileged to avoid the worst."

    "And then what?" His eyes glinted as he seethed, but this time, he didn''t raise his voice and remained strangely calm. "I confess, and instead of the guillotine, I get banished without anything. Isn''t that the same as dying?"

    "It''s not, Your Highness. A wise man once said; once you''re dead, you''re dead. No one will remember you since you weren''t a particrly good person and you know that. Are you thinking Princess Violet or your sons will remember you? Maybe they will in heaven!" She cocked her head, rendering him speechless as what she spewed was nothing but facts. He knew his allies were also in the same situation as him and if they all died, everything they were fighting for would die with them.

    But more than that, the mention of Princess Violet and his sons lit up the small me within, igniting his inextinguishable anger.

    "Plead guilty, Your Highness. I''ll make sure you get a lighter sentence. After all, being banished is better than dying instantly. There were lots of things you can do while you''re breathing than when you''re not." Aries pushed herself up and pivoted on her heel to walk away. But she stopped just after three steps and nced over her shoulder.

    "I''ll wait for your answer during your trial. You have time." Her eyes glinted as she resumed her steps, smirking evilly.

 Chapter 223 Planting The Seed Of Doubt

    Meanwhileбн

    "What?"

    Ismael cocked his head, sitting leisurely in the second chancery where he was escorted for questioning. Normally, interrogations wouldn''t be this fancy, but since he was the "revered" third prince бк which he called himself бк they had to treat him more like a witness than a suspect.

    Roman, the seventh prince, gazed at his brother across from him coldly. Yet, he remained quiet.

    "I know, right?" the third prince smirked in mockery. "There''s no point in asking any question since no one is listening and we both know I am not the person who should be in this ce."

    Ismael leaned backfortably, shrugging. "Roman, my brother, youбн are one hell of a knotty man. Why would you swear an oath to Joaquin, huh? Javierбн I get it why that bastard sucks up to that abomination. But youбн it''s always been a mystery to me, brother."

    Expectedly, Roman kept his mouth shut, letting time pass just so he could say he questioned Ismael. It was all for formality after all, and Roman was aware Ismael had just received his ticket away from all this fiasco.

    "Goodnessбн you''ve really changed, but I can''t me you." Ismael smacked his lips while studying the man sitting across from him. "Joaquin had his ways to people. Honestly, he is almost perfect if onlyбн he is a bit humane."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips as silence followed. It wasn''t like Ismael didn''t expect this silent treatment. He gazed up, resting his leg over the other. Meanwhile, Roman remained apathetic, counting seconds and estimating how long should he keep this man with him before releasing him. Only a minuteter did Roman pay attention to Ismael.

    "Princess Violetбн she''s kind, wasn''t she?" Ismael slowly peeled his eyes away from the shelf he was staring at to look at Roman. "I''m not particrly close with my brother''s wives and the only one I wanted to befriend is the crown princess, because why not? She''s beautiful and any man will desire her, that''s for sure."

    "I meanбн even if she is the crown princess and my sister-inw, I would fuck her and will not feel sorry about it," he added with a sly smirk, raising his brows yfully. "If she likes it, then it''s an affair. I don''t mind being the third party бк it''s not like her husband is faithful and doesn''t taste different dishes aside from the main course."

    Despite that Roman kept his mouth shut, it didn''t stop Ismael from talking about the crown princess with his virulent and sinful tongue. One could say he was simply killing time by talking about women, only for Roman to understand why Ismael was suddenly spewing such scandalous things as coveting his brother''s wife.

    "I''m just a man, after all. Liking someone and getting an erection at a thought of a beauty is normal. It just so happened the dish that makes me hungry and triggers my craving is my brother''s wife." Ismael tipped his head, shing him a knowing look. "You can''t me me, right? After all, we''re in the same boat."

    "We''re not." Roman''s reply was quick, causing the smirk on the third prince''s lips to stretch. "You can talk about women all day and indulge in debauchery and adultery. However, must you get found out spewing things to the crown princess, you will face consequences."

    Ismael raised his hands in surrender. "Rx, brother. There''s nothing to be so angry about."

    "I am not angry. I am simply concerned since the person you''re talking about is the wife of my king."

    "Hahбн" the third prince chuckled and shook his head. "You do sound angry, though. Come on, Rome. We''re brothers. You don''t have to use the excuse you respect a woman from another empire or your beloved king. Stop hiding, I know. The only topic that can make you so aggressive is Princess Violet."<sub> </sub>

    Roman''s expression grew icy as his eyes darkened. And yet, Ismael was unfazed by this.

    "Sadly, she''s dead. Poor Violet and her children. I can imagine the terror on her face seeing the fire around her while protecting her children. It''s saddening in many ways, you see. Did she die when debris fell on her? Or was she burned alive? Perhaps бк"

    "Shut up!" Ismael halted when Roman suddenly mmed his fist against the table, eyes glinting. "Shut your mouth before I make you."

    Ismael whistled and chuckled. "See? The only topic that can stir your emotions is Violet. That''s why I said I cannot understand you, brother. Why did you willingly side with the crown prince?"

    "This might be for formality, but I do not have to answer your questions. At the end of the day, this interrogation is for you, not mine."

    "I know! But at the same time, it''s not like you''re asking me anything." Ismael intoned. "Ask me who started the fire and I will put my hand in my heart and confess it''s his royal highness."

    <strong>SLAM!</strong>

    "What? Do you think it''s not him? You and I know there''re no lengths the crown prince will take to get what he wants. Manuel, for example, or just the most recent one, thend of Rikhill." Ismael continued despite the building tension in the chancery, keeping his eyes straight in Roman''s eyes. "Joaquin is capable of selling his soul to the devil in exchange for power and control. Do you think killing Princess Violet and his nephews is something he will not do?"

    "There''s no reason for him to drag them in this."

    "Hah!" he burst out inughter, holding his stomach as he hunched in. Ismaelughed andughed until he was wiping the corner of his eyes. "Goodnessбн I didn''t know you''re this naive, Rome. How cute!"

    Heughed once again until he rposed himself, raising his squinting eyes at Roman. "No reason? My brotherбн aren''t you a little hrious? The crown prince had all the reason to silence Violet because she knows something that can inconvenience Joaquin. He wouldn''t wait for her to stand on the gallows just to give her an opportunity to speak herst words."

    Roman''s brows furrowed while studying the cunning smirk on the third prince''s face. Thetter held back on the details to keep the suspense as he patted his thigh.

    "Anyway, I think I indulged enough with you. You don''t have to see me out, I got it." He winked before he assisted himself up, grinning from ear to ear as he nced at Roman when he was by the door.

    One thing Ismael learned fromst night was thatбн everyone in this ce had one understanding; they couldn''t trust anyonepletely. Ismael might''ve learned thatte since he had hoped for this empire, but it didn''t matter now.

    He got away unscathed after selling his soul to the devil, who emerged directly from hell. And he, too, promised everyone''s death would not be in vain. He would cripple Joaquin slowly but surely.

 Chapter 224 Thats Interesting

    <strong>The crown prince chanceryбн</strong>

    "Your Highnessбн" Hernan called as soon as he closed the door, watching Joaquin pace back and forth while running his hands through his hair. "The third бк"

    "Find out what he knows." Hernan abruptly stopped when Joaquin set his pair of menacing eyes on him. "Squeeze out every information you can from him. I don''t care if you sever a finger or all of them. Break his bones and cripple him, if you must."

    "But Your Highness, if we do that, it will put you in a bad light."

    "Fuck!" Hernan flinched when the crown prince roared, pacing away only to kick the stand nearby. "That damn nuisance!"

    Joaquin mmed his palms on the desk as hard and as strong as he could, panting for air at the building fury inside his heart. His eyes were bloodshot. Seeing the documents on the desk, he felt this sudden disgust. He clenched his teeth and swung his arms, causing the documents to fall over the desk along with everything that was on it.

    "Fucking Ismael!! I''m going to fucking kill him!!" he growled, throwing a huge fit to release the anger filling his heart. Meanwhile, Hernan pressed his lips, flinching every time something broke on the floor.

    It had been a while since Hernan witnessed the crown prince get this angry. Joaquin was the person who hated losing control over things. What happened in the royal court was something they didn''t fathom бк ever. How could they?

    Who was in their right mind would use the emperor''s name? Hernan and Joaquin were certain Ismael was lying through his teeth, but that made Joaquin even madder.

    Why? Because despite knowing Ismael was lying right in front of their faces, they couldn''t do anything about it. The emperor wouldn''t make an appearance in the court just to confirm or deny this fact. Hell. He wouldn''t make any appearance since the emperor was nothing but a mindless monster now.

    The empire and the royal family would be doomed if this gets out. Everyone would think their bloodline was cursed, inciting anger from the public and just everyone.

    In other words, Ismael pulled out a golden card at them and used it at the perfect time.

    <strong>How?</strong> That was the question that they needed to answer.

    "There''s no way he is only acting alone," Joaquin muttered when he calmed down slightly, still having his hands nted on the desk. "If this is all his idea, he would''ve been gloating about it. There must be someoneбн someone I don''t know about who is helping him in the shadows."

    Hernan nodded. That was the only logical answer to all of this. Ismael wouldn''t be this smart and confident.

    "Who?" Joaquin nced back at his aide, eyes full of murderous intent. "Find out who is secretly helping him. Once you find out who it was, drag him to me. I''ll punish him myself."

    A chill ran down Hernan''s spine when the corner of Joaquin''s lips hooked up dangerously. He had served Joaquin for years to know the man. He could only think of the worst things that could happen to those who made enemies with Joaquin.

    "I will employ your elite soldiers." Hernan lowered his head, trying to keep his trembling knees still.

    Joaquin peeled his eyes away from his aide before he huffed. He remained silent for several minutes, getting a grip.<sub> </sub>

    "Where did they take Ismael?" he asked without looking back.

    "He was brought in with the seventh prince for questioning. Althoughбн he might get released earlier than expected."

    "That bastardбн"

    "Your Highness, although the situation is something we didn''t expect, I don''t think the third prince had more cards up in his sleeve." Hernan mustered his courage to speak his thoughts despite knowing speaking unnecessarily could anger the crown prince. "He is probably buying some time. The third prince, although a little foolish, isn''tpletely stupid. It could be he was getting help, but we also cannot rule out the option that he might simply take a gamble in bringing up His Majesty''s name."

    "No." Joaquin huffed, eyes glinting dangerously. "I know Ismael, and I knew when he is bluffing and when he knew something."

    There was a momentary pause between them before he added. "It was neither." This time, Hernan furrowed his brows.

    "There''s certainly someoneбн that bastard had given up his power to someone else and is now working for that person." As if he knew it already, Joaquin spoke with certainty while recalling the taunting smirk stered across Ismael''s face this morning.

    Although the two of them weren''t close since the beginning, they''ve been rivals. It didn''t have much of a difference. Therefore, Joaquin could speak with conviction that Ismael was getting help.

    The question was: who was it? Who was his enemy? Fighting someone powerful was troublesome, but it was even more troublesome when they had no idea who or what they were fighting.

    "That stupid fuck," he spat out, getting more annoyed the more he thought about the third prince. "His stupidity is surprisingly convenient sometimes."

    His eyes glinted, even more, when a sudden knock came from the door. Joaquin nced at it when the knight stated his identity and reason for interrupting the crown prince.

    "Let him in," ordered Joaquin, which Hernan executed almost immediately. He didn''t move from his spot in front of the desk, palms glued on the top of it, bent over. He simply nced at the knight standing next to Hernan when the two entered.

    The knight bowed and greeted the crown prince politely, unbothered by the broken and scattered stuff on the floor, knowing the crown prince''s temperament.

    "Your Highness, I received a report from the prison where the eighth prince is locked in," reported the knight, causing Joaquin''s brow to arch while Hernan''s crease. They waited for the knight to continue but noticed how he slightly hesitated for a split second.

    "Climaco, the newly appointed captain of the second squadron, arranged a secret meeting with the eighth prince. We looked into the matter andбн we figured out it was the crown princess who met him in secret."

    "Ohбн" Joaquin scoffed, which sounded like a brief chuckle, pushing himself away from the desk as he faced the knight and Hernan.

    "Circe?" he smirked and rocked his head, pondering, before the corner of his lips curled up into a smirk. "That''s interesting."

 Chapter 225 Kneel Like A Dog

    Days had passed in a blur. The imperial pce was just as busy as ever, calming the public as much as they could. Meanwhile, Aries wasn''t as busy as everybody else. It was out of her jurisdiction. So she was "focusing" on the matters she must focus on.

    "Come in," Aries permitted, without stopping from writing a letter in response to a noble house regarding the charity works she proposed. She only raised her head when she felt Cherry, herdy-in-waiting, standing near her desk.

    "Yes?" she asked with a peaceful smile.

    "Your Highness, the crown prince is inviting you to have lunch with him today," said Cherry. "I received a word from the Sapphire Pce that His Highness was waiting for you there."

    "Oh?" Aries''s brow arched, putting the quill back in its holder. "He''s there, huh?"

    She leaned back and looked up, pondering in silence. Meanwhile, Cherry simply studied Aries''s demeanor and noticed how Aries seemed bothered by something.

    "I hadn''t even seen his shadow for the past several daysбн" came out a mumble, narrowing her eyes suspiciously. "I wonder what suddenly made hime to the Sapphireбн"

    Her eyes slowly dted as realization dawned on her.<strong> Curtis,</strong> she thought, springing up to her seat almost instantly. When she met Cherry''s eyes, thetter''s brows rose to see the mild panic stered on the crown princess''s face.

    "Your Highness, the бк"

    "I''m going back to the Sapphire Pce. Make sure everything is in order." Aries didn''t even cast her a look, storming out of the chancery in a hurry.

    All Cherry could do was stare at the crown princess''s back, eyes glinting in contempt. Until now, she hadn''t seen Aries break her elegant front as if nothing could ever bother the crown princess. The reason this was quite interesting to her since Cherry already guessed the reason Aries suddenly panicked.

    It was Curtis.

    Cherry wasn''t stupid and knew almost everything between the crown princess and the crown prince. Joaquin ced him in this position to monitor his wife. So far, this was the most interesting part of all.

    ''Are you really that Ariesбн?'' she wondered, straightening her back as she looked at the shut doors. ''Huhбн it seems a person will never change. They can try, but it is all for naught.''

    A ridiculingugh escaped her mouth before she nced at the desk. ncing at the shut doors once again, Cherry sauntered towards Aries''s seat and sat down on it. She caressed the clean edges of the desk, smirking, finding herfortable spot, and leaned back.

    "She''s always so lucky," she muttered with a vicious smirk. It didn''t matter to her how Aries became a Vandran, knowing how <strong>''lucky''</strong> the woman could be. However, Cherry was set to drag her downбн somewhere below her feet.

    "Crown princessбн" her eyes glinted as she nced at the documents Aries left on the desk. She reached for it, caressing the parchment with her fingertip. "бн I can''t be the crown princess, but I vowed to make whoever holds the title live a living hell."

    "I did it onceбн I''d do it again," she added as her eyes sharpened.<sub> </sub>

    Ambition, greed, and envy. Those were the distinct emotions that resurfaced in her eyes, like a snake slithering around, waiting for the moment she would bite and poison her preyбн IF that moment woulde.

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ Sapphire Pce ]</strong>

    Aries rushed back to the Sapphire Pce, almost sprinting to reach there on time. Her heart instantly sank when she barged into Curtis'' room. Her eyes fell on the specks of blood on the floor and Curtis lying helplessly. But that wasn''t all. On the side, the disheveled Gertrude was kneeling.

    <o>,m She caught the wound on the side of Gertrude''s lips and the bruise on her cheekbone. Despite not knowing the details, Aries didn''t have to ask anyone what happened. It was obvious.</o>

    "My crown princess, what a surprise!" she snapped her eyes and raised them at the person sitting cross-legged on the divan. "I didn''t know you will rush to me before lunch! If only I know you will be this excited, I would have met you earlier!"

    Joaquin was wiping the blood off of his knuckles, smirking at her, who was standing by the door. His lips stretched, seeing her expression as if she would kill him.

    "What do you think you''re doing?" she asked under her breath, suppressing herself from throwing a huge fit.

    "My wife, why are you suddenly angry?" he feigned ignorant before he looked around. "Ah! I was disciplining your pet. However, this maid here doesn''t know her ce. So I had no choice but to remind her."

    She scoffed. Aries nced at Gertrude again and then at Curtis before setting them back to Joaquin. But instead of taking offense, she nced over her shoulder and noticed a few knights guarding the door. She hadn''t seen these knights.

    "Your Highness." When Aries spoke, she was unable to conceal the contempt in her eyes. "Was this something to do with the incident before the fire?"

    "Huh?" he cocked his head to the side. "What do you mean, my wife? I trust your judgment and let you discipline my people. You''re my wife. However, shouldn''t that also apply to me?"

    "I came here early to wait for you and I wanted to kill time. So, I wanted to y with your pet. However, it seemed he had already forgotten how to y fetch, so I was simply trying to train him again. What''s wrong with that?" he continued, showing zero remorse as if he wasn''t talking about a human but an animal. "Your maid here even tried to argue with me. I had no choice, Circe. They made me do it."

    "They made you do it?" Ariesughed in ridicule, loosening her fist before she nced over her shoulder. "You, over there."

    Aries pointed at the knights standing outside, crooking a finger. The knight nced at the other knight before he reluctantly advanced in her direction.

    "It seems my husband is quite yful today and my pet disappoints him." She slowly set her sharp eyes back at Joaquin, who was anticipating what she would do. "It''s been a while since we spent time together. Hence, I would like to also kill time."

    The side of her lips curled as she raised her chin up, casting the knight a side-eye. "What are you waiting for? Kneel like a dog and y catch with us."

 Chapter 226 My Favorite

    "What are you waiting for? Kneel like a dog and y catch with us."

    The corners of Joaquin''s lips stretched from ear to ear while the knight''s eyes went round. Thetter nced at Joaquin and, much to his dismay, the crown prince wasn''t even stopping her.

    "Your Highness бк"

    "What?" she cocked her head to the side. "You let my pet upset my husband and look at him now. He''d be useless. How are we going to enjoy ourselves if all we have is a useless pet who cannot even stand up?"

    The knights who were hearing her twisted words could not help but lower their heads. Cruel as it may sound, they were rather relieved it wasn''t them who was put on the spot. Surely, the crown princess and the crown prince were both destructive.

    "Your Highnessбн" the knight called helplessly, ncing at Joaquin, whose eyes never left Aries.

    "Kneel, or should I make you?" she threatened before looking back at the other knight. "Fetch me a rope."

    "Ye бк yes!"

    <o>,m Hearing this, the poor knight who didn''t expect to be in this sort of situation when he woke up this morning looked at her nkly. He knew this was twisted and irrational. He was a knight. However, unlike other knights, everyone who came with him was a newly recruited knight.</o>

    In other words, they hadn''t proved themselves. Was this a test of how much they could stomach things? They said the crown prince valued his soldier''s life, but was there some type of ss where this ''value'' reach?

    The knight, who was filled with questions in his head, still slowly went down to his knees and swallowed down his pride. Like a dog, he stood on his knees only to get kicked on his back, which caused him to nt his palms on the floor.

    Having to stay in this position, the knight''s eyes were filled with dread and humiliation and was traumatized. He was already surprised when he saw Curtis get beaten by the crown prince for no reason, but he gritted his teeth and tried to ignore it. Who would have thought he would be next?

    "Tie it around his neck." Aries nced at the knight, who returned with a rope, and without question asked, the knight executed the order efficiently.

    "Myбн are you rebelling, my wife?" asked Joaquin as soon as she raised her eyes back at him once again.

    "Rebelling? My husband, in which part of this called rebelling? All I''m trying to do is appease you since my people forced you to sully your hands." She almostughed before taking the rope, tugging it until the knight winced. "This one is able and can y with us. Shall we teach him a few tricks together, husband?"<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin chuckled with his lips closed, leaning to his side. He propped his elbow over the armrest, resting his jaw against his knuckles, eyes on her.

    "How amusing," he mused. "For a maid and a dog, you will humiliate my knights like this? Surely, you never changed my love. For people like themбн you lose sight of what truly mattered."

    "And what is that, my beloved husband?" Aries cocked her head to the side, blinking with genuine wonder in her eyes. "What do you mean, I lose sight of what truly mattered? Did you mean between this knight and that maid, this knight''s life is more than hers?"

    A loudugh escaped her mouth as she nced at the knight and then at Gertrude. Thetter kept her head hung low, hugging her shoulders to stop trembling.

    "Howe, my husband? Gertrude will die for me if only I asked her to. She had sworn to serve me until death and had proved her sincerity even back when I was a sickly young miss. How about this knight, your Highness?" she tugged the rope, keeping her eyes on Joaquin. "Aside from wearing this uniform and being called a knight, what did he do for me to think his life mattered to me?"

    Aries shook her head andughed faintly. "When I say my people, I don''t care about others. That maid and that pet are my people and their life is in my hands, not yours, Your Highness. If touching them just because they upset you, then so be it. I won''t rebel. Just don''t also question me when I touched yours."

    "Hahбн so fierce." Joaquin rubbed his chin, keeping his sneer. He just kept his eyes on her, studying her expressions and actions and how she twisted her words. So far, her reaction has convinced him his wife truly had some resemnce to Aries. Not just the face, but when her people received injustice.

    ''What a fruitful visit.'' Heughed mentally. ''She''d been careful all this time, but I guessбн she never changed. She had growncent, thinking I had trusted her.''

    The only reason Joaquin was here was to test Aries once again after he received a word that she secretly visited Carlos. Apparently, the eighth prince said nothing even when he was interrogated by the crown prince''s knights.

    Joaquin smiled happily before he uncrossed his legs and pushed himself up. He nced at Gertrude and at Curtis, who was lying unconscious after meeting his fist countless times. His lips stretched before he advanced in her direction.

    "My love, I understand your heart," he said, stopping in front of Aries. He raised his hand, brushing her cheek with his thumb, bending over to meet her at eye level.

    "Perhaps I went too far this time. I''m sorry."

    Her expression sharpened at his sudden shift of mood, but he ignored it. His eyes simply scanned her facial features, caressing her lips with his thumb.

    "It''s good to see you again, my love. I missed you so, so much." Joaquin smiled once again as a glint flickered across his eyes, stressing his words to make her feel the other meaning behind them. "Once everything is settled, I''ll make up for this incident, alright? Let''s have fun then... my favorite."

 Chapter 227 Well Soon Be In The Same Page

    <o>,m "бн my favorite."</o>

    Aries''s sharp countenance didn''t change the slightest as she exhaled, keeping her eyes low while Joaquin retrieved his hand. He sneered at her onest time and straightened his back, saying nothing else as he walked past her. The look on his face as he departed the room was something as if he finally solved a mystery, putting him in high spirits as he was totally convinced the crown princess was Aries.

    When he left, Aries stayed in the same spot for minutes before she let go of the rope.

    "Leave me alone," she said, walking towards Curtis. "Before I change my mind and get you hanged."

    The traumatized knight had to force himself to stand up and drag his feet away. He couldn''t even look back as he exited the room, closing the door behind him. When he gazed at the other knights, who witnessed everything, his heart sank when they averted their eyes from him.

    This wasбн was what was going on behind closed doors. The royal family, especially the crown prince, wasn''t anything close to his public image. He was mad and twisted, and so was the crown princess. Both of them were crazy and the knight just came to know that, telling himself how foolish he was to feel exhrate when Joaquin told them they would escort him today.

    "Youбн" the knight trailed off, but he couldn''t finish his sentence as he hung his head low, seeing that rope dangling down on his front. <strong>''This ce is sickening.''</strong>

    <strong>********</strong>

    Aries stopped several steps away from Curtis and Gertrude. The room was dead silent until Gertrude mustered her courage to speak.

    "Your Highnessбн" came out a shaking voice while tears shone in her eyes. "His Highness asked him to y, but Sir Curtis didn''t kneel. He remained in his seat and even tried to stand upright after he wasбн after they dragged him out of the chair."

    Gertrude bit her quivering lips as she raised her head to Aries. She was scared, terrified. She thought she was going to die when she was kicked while protecting Curtis'' already beaten body.

    To Gertrude''s surprise, the side of Aries''s lips slowly curled up as a glint flickered across her eyes.

    "Your Highness?"

    "I''m sorry you have to go through all that, Gertrude." Aries squatted down near Curtis and checked his pulse. "Can you stand up?"

    "Ye бк yes?"

    "Call for the maids and physician to look after him," she ordered without taking her eyes off of Curtis, brushing the stray hairs away from his face. "I promised him no one will ever get to touch him, but it''s inevitable since it''s the crown prince."

    Aries then raised her eyes at Gertrude. "Nevermind, Gertrude. I''ll go ask them. Just stay there." She didn''t wait for Gertrude to respond as she pushed herself up and marched towards the door.

    The knights were still there, so Aries simply instructed one of them to summon the physician and servants while the other returned to the room with her to carry Curtis on the bed. When the servants arrived, they were already carrying first aid and water to clean the room. Gertrude rested on the divan, letting another servant help her clean her wound before the royal physician arrived.<sub> </sub>

    While everyone got busy tending to Curtis and Gertrude and cleaning the blood on the floor without ever speaking a word, Aries remained silent on the armchair around the set of divans. She was simply watching everyone from that seat, ignoring the constant look from Gertrude and the stifling silence of the servants.

    "Hahбн" everyone froze for a second when her briefughter broke the thick silence. "Hahбн ha ha hahaha!"

    As if she had gone mad, Aries''s waves ofughter bounced across every corner of the room. And yet, everyone inside with her and listening to her maniacal touches ofughter could only squash down the sense of dread creeping into their hearts. Some, like Gertrude, snuck a puzzled look at her briefly, while others couldn''t even dare.

    "Ahбн how fun," came out a perverted voice, biting her lower lip to stop herself from grinning like a maniac. "It seems my husband had goneбн asinine. Just what did the third prince do to him for him to lose his mind in just a few days?"

    No one answered as they all verbally agreed to pretend they couldn''t hear her. Thus, while Aries wasughing and talking, everyone tried their best to continue what they were doing. But if they were going to answer, they would all say it wasn''t just the crown prince who lost his mind, but also the crown princess!

    It was not like everyone wasn''t aware of Joaquin''s temperament, but Aries''s temperament still shocked everyone. She was legit mad. Who wouldugh like this after an argument with her husband?

    "Soбн interesting." She rocked her head, ncing at everyone, and smirking upon catching a few shivers the second they felt her gaze. "You lotбн" she spoke and everyone held their breath, praying they wouldn''t be the ''lucky'' person who would catch her eyes.

    "бн better start learning to walk on your knees and hands." She smirked, humoring them to ''liven'' up the mood. "Who knows when will my current pet willst? You need to adjust now while it''s still early so it won''t be hard when my husband and I start pampering whoever is the next one."

    Such simple words uttered in a humorous manner still sent a chill down their spine. Even so, they got the message. They couldn''t let Curtis die. Some nced at Gertrude and saw her looking down. If not for that maid, Curtis would''ve died before Aries arrived.

    They could already imagine what could''ve happened if Curtis died. One or two of them would have to rece his role.

    Oh, how they missed those days when the crown prince and crown princess had a harmonious rtionship. Now, everyone had to choose between them, but how? They were both mad destructive!

    Aries chuckled as she read their thoughts with just their expression and bodynguage.

    "Make sure Curtis and Gertrude will get enough rest and attention." Aries nted her palms on the armrest and stood up. "If the crown prince returned or his men, risk your life and protect those two. You''ll be rewarded sweetly."

    She then paused in her tracks towards the door, tossing her head back nonchntly. "If those two died or even had another scratch, everyone will pay the price and I''m telling you, it''s something no one can afford."

    Her lips curled up, unfazed by the disy of favoritism, as she walked away, eyes glinting dangerously.

    ''I''m almost there,'' she thought. ''We''ll soon be on the same page, Joaquin.''

 Chapter 228 Life Happened

    Meanwhileбн

    After Ismael was questioned by Roman, the seventh prince, he walked away freely. No one dragged him to the issue anymore as everyone focused on calming the public because of the fire. He had also been busy, although in another way.

    Ismael had his people, but the night he needed them the most, most of them turned their backs on him. So now that he emerged from the crown prince''s trap, some of them were shamelessly requesting an audience with him.

    So, avoiding everyone was what made him busy.

    "Brother." He was snapped back to reality when Javier, the fourth prince''s voice, rang behind him. "You hadn''t visited Carlos."

    Standing in front of the shut doors of the third prince''s cab, Javier gazed at Ismael''s back. Thetter was standing in front of the window, holding a ss of tea in his hand instead of the usual rum he would drink to keep himself calm.

    "There''s no need to see a criminal," Ismael replied, which brought a frown to the fourth prince''s face. "I barely avoided the crisis, brother. My life right now is being watched closely by the crown prince. Thus, all my movements, everything I say, and everyone I meet would be reported to him."

    He carefully turned around to face his brother squarely. "Meaning, once you walk out of this very room, you might get an invitation."

    "What are you insinuating?"

    "Nothing, brother." Ismael shrugged as he raised the teacup to his lips, looking at Javier over the rim. "All I''m saying is you should be careful."

    "I am always careful."

    "Indeed." He took a sip and then sauntered towards the armchair nearby the coffee table. "Why don''t you take a seat, brother? I haven''t been outside to avoid some bothersome people and I know you had a lot of questions. It''s better if we remain seated while we discuss some things."

    Javier watched Ismael motion his hand towards the seat across from him. A shallow breath slipped past his lips before he dragged his feet and perched on the chair across from his brother.

    "How did you avoid the inevitable? Is what you''re going to ask me, correct?" Ismael guessed even before Javier''s lips opened. He sported a smile and chuckled with his lips closed.

    "Let me tell you, Javier. How I did it is something that doesn''t matter. Just sayбн I was lucky?"

    "What about Carlos?" Javier inquired, knowing there was no point in dwelling on that question since Ismael wouldn''t give him a definite answer. "His trial would be tomorrow. Do you have ns to turn things around?"

    "And if I had? What is it to you?"

    "Are you suspicious of me?"

    "I''m not."

    "But your words and demeanor are enough to say you don''t trust me anymore."<sub> </sub>

    Ismael clicked his tongue continuously as he shook his head sideways. "It''s not that I don''t trust you anymore, brother. This is not about you." He chuckled, raising his eyes while cocking his head to the side.

    "I still trust you, brother, but I trust myself even more. I''m just being more cautious since I cannot afford to lose more of my people," he exined, raising a foot as he rested his leg over the other. "I hope you understand. You''re smart, Javier, so you should know by now that there''s a mole. Joaquin wouldn''t entrap me in such a cheap scheme if he didn''t know my ns."

    "Whatбн? And you think it''s me?"

    "I didn''t say that. It''s you who assumed." Ismael shrugged as he leaned back, draping his arms over the armrest. "All I''m saying is, I already epted Carlos and a few of my people''s death. Although it breaks my heart, I must admit I''m to me that our time together was short-lived."

    "Sadly, I cannot go out there and go down with them. The only thing I can do to atone for my mistake is to make sure their deaths will not be in vain," he continued in the same indifferent and calm tone. "That''s my duty, don''t you think? You won''t ask me to save them and risk my head, right? If I die, everything we''ve been fighting for will go down the drain. You know better, Javier."

    There was a moment of silence between the two brothers. Javier''s eyes remained on Ismael''s unreadable expression. It was not like thetter changed the way he dressed or he look, but he still appeared different from the brother he used to know. His demeanor, words, attitude, temperament, and almost everything were different as if another soul possessed him.

    "What happened to you?" he blurted out under his breath, even before he could think twice.

    Ismael''s lips curled up until his eyes were slightly squinting. "Life, brother."

    Knock knockбн

    "Your Highness, this isбн and returned after fulfilling your orders." A voice of a man outside reached their ears right after the faint knock. But Ismael didn''t avert his gaze from Javier.

    "And then people," he continued to answer the question he asked him. "That''s what happened to me, and I am not as foolish as to fall for it the second time."

    "Come in." Ismael then raised his head towards the door and his lips stretched broader upon seeing the knight under him, with a few more knights following behind him. Seeing his reaction, Javier twisted his neck to see what uplifted the already light mood of the third prince.

    His brows furrowed because all he saw was the chief knight under the third prince''s and then a few knights. The young knights looked pale as if they came straight out of a war. They looked traumatized and confused at the same time.

    ''Huh?'' Javier''s eyes fell on the chief knight and the rope he was holding.

    "Wee!" Ismael greeted happily before the chief knight approached and handed the rope after whispering in the third prince''s ears. All Javier saw was Ismael nodding, and then shaking his head before shifting his attention to the knights by the door.

    "How sad." He sighed. "How could they treat the knights as animals just because they were quarreling?"

    Although Javier was confused about what the third prince was saying, the knights'' expression was enough for him to get a gist of it. Ismael was cooking something... and he was focusing on something else instead of his usual priority.

    "Just in case you don''t know." Javier flinched when Ismael cast him a knowing look. "You''re the first person I met since this fiasco began."

    Javier scoffed faintly as he lowered his eyes. In other words, if what he saw and heard here was leaked, there was only one person to me. Just when did Ismael be this... cunning and cautious?

 Chapter 229 Her Calmness Was Her Silent Scream

    Aries returned to the Sapphire Pce when the night was about to fall. But instead of heading directly to her chambers, she went straight to Curtis''s room which was just right next to hers.

    Standing by the door, a shallow breath slipped past her lips. Her eyes settled on the person lying on the bed, pursing her lips into a thin line before intruding inside. Aries sat down on the armchair next to the bed, sighing once again.

    "I''m sorry." Her voice was incredibly low after a momentary silence. "I promise this will be thest time you''ll be in pain."

    She reached for his hand, squeezing it lightly. Curtis''s head was wrapped in a bandage. His wounds were well-tended and hisplexion was better than when she left this morning.

    "You did great in resisting him. You made me very proud and happy, Curtis." Her eyes softened, brushing the back of his hand with her thumb.

    Aries looked back towards the door when she heard a faint creak. The side of her lips curled up the moment her eyes caught Gertrude entering. Thetter flinched upon seeing Aries but bowed immediately. Gertrude had a few fabrics draped over her arm, barely making a sound as she approached the bed.

    "Gertrude." The maid kept her eyes on the floor as she stood near the foot side of the bed. "Why are you still here? Shouldn''t you be resting or are the servants not taking care of you?"

    "It''s me who insisted on not taking a break, Your Highness." Gertrude''s voice was distant and low.

    "Are you upset with me?"

    "How dare I get upset with your highness?"

    "Gertrude."

    "Your Highness." This time, Gertrude raised her head, only for Aries to see the sadness in her eyes. "Was this part of your n? Forgive me if I am overstepping, but this humble servant is a little confused about what your highness is nning."

    Aries studied Gertrude''s expression while pursing her lips. When a deep exhale slipped past her nose, she peeled her eyes away from the servant to Curtis'' on the bed.

    "I expected this much," she confessed. "Joaquin is someone who will stop at nothing to get what he wants and even when it appears that our rtionship was in perfect harmony, it''s not. He would always be suspicious of me."

    "Thenбн will this help you with your ns?" asked Gertrude, scrutinizing the crown princess'' expression. "Our wounds will heal, Your Highness, and I would dly understand if that is the case."

    There was a momentary silence between them.

    "This humble servant is simply worried about your welfare, Your Highness. The crown princeбн he terrifies me," she continued as she held her hand to stop her tremors. The thought of Joaquin terrified her, especially whenever she recalled his sneer while beating the two of them. She truly thought she would die this morning; that was what the crown prince''s eyes told her, and nowбн Gertrude was even more worried about Aries''s welfare.

    Her husband was a monster d in human skin. A real monster. The worst of the worst.

    "This time, it''ll be thest time he will raise his hands on you and Curtis," Aries spoke after a minute. "He will even forget about you since he''ll be busy with me."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Highness, I''m not following. What do you mean by that?"

    "I figured to protect you, I had to take his hundred percent attention," Aries exined in a soft tone, still holding Curtis''s hand. "Just focus on getting better. Especially, Curtis needs to recover as soon as possible. He seemed to have remembered his values, so I want him to recover and be able to walk on his own."

    "Mydy, are you saying youбн" Gertrude trailed off, changing how she addressed Aries from the conclusion that she came up with after listening to her.

    "No, Gertrude." Aries forced a smile on her face as she turned her head in her maid''s direction. "It''s nothing like that, Gertrude. I came here prepared to receive the crown prince''s undivided attention. It''s just this time, I won''t let him hurt me, or you, or Curtis."

    Slowly, she set her eyes back to Curtis and her eyes glinted with gentleness. "I had stomached everything in the past Gertrude. Indulging with him for a little longer is something I canpromise with. I cannot stop now."

    A glint flickered across her gentle eyes, letting out a shallow breath. She squeezed Curtis''s hand lightly before she retrieved her hand.

    "I''m now riding on the same ship as everybody else and we''re about to face a harsh current," she continued in the same soft and calm tone, eyes still on Curtis. "The waves will be strong in theing days and it wouldn''t be an exaggeration if it''ll wreak the ship no matter how big it is. Howeverбн I''m certain I would reach the shore even if I have to swim for days."

    Aries nced at Gertrude, only for thetter to see the resolve flickering across her eyes. "The storm will drown at least half of the passengers, but I am sure I am not one of them. I had to survive, no matter what. Because once the sky cleared up and the ocean calmed down, a new dawn will arise."

    A subtle smile appeared on Aries''s face as she nodded at Gertrude encouragingly. Thetter pursed her lips, watching Aries look at Curtis once again. Gertrude didn''t know why, but this was the first time she had witnessed Aries reach this level of calmness. Not that the crown princess wasn''t always calm, but this time, her calmness was different.

    If Gertrude would put it in words, it was akin to the phrase; the calm before the storm. It gave her the same sensation and restlessness.

    Just what was she nning now?

    "I won''t be able to see Curtis for the following days, Gertrude. But I will be watching you and him closely." Aries nced at her briefly before she set her eyes back to Curtis once again. "For now, focus on your recovery. I''ll assign Minerva to look after you."

    "Your Highness, what about you?"

    "Don''t worry about me." Aries'' reply was quick. "I can''t take my family to war, Gertrude. I am going to war to protect those I left behind, and bringing them with me is nothing but foolish."

    She paused and set her eyes at Gertrude once again. "Do you understand?"

    "Ye бк yes, Your Highness. I will take care of Sir Curtis and make sure we will wee you with good news." Gertrude hung her head low while Aries smiled.

    "Good." She peeled her eyes away from Gertrude before a dangerous glint flickered across them.

 Chapter 230 Trial

    Once the public calmed down from the fire incident, everyone had prepared for Carlos'' trial. It took them days to open the trial because of many reasons; mostly because of the debate about whether it should be a public trial or a private one. In the end, since Carlos was a part of the royal family, the trial was only opened to aristocrats.

    Still, they alsopromised that they would give out consistent updates to the public. Because at the end of the day, the royal family still owed their people an exnation since people were protesting in the streets, questioning the credibility of the royal family.

    It was chaotic, but well, this type of response was already expected.

    The morning of the trial would be held in the courtroom. As the crown princess, she had a special seat on the top spot on the second floor to watch everything without squeezing herself with everyone. Beside her was the seat for the crown prince.

    Aries arrived right on time when the seats in the court hall were slowly being upied by aristocrats. In front of the court hall, there were three empty seats for Modesto, and a few ministers to judge the trial, who have yet to arrive. There was a stand in the middle where the person being tried would stand, and then seats for every aristocrat who wanted to attend.

    She nced over the railings and smirked. There were tons of familiar faces, both from Joaquin''s supporters and the opposing sides. The rest were simply the curious ones.

    The whisperings and murmurings soon reached the floor where Aries was at. She leaned back when she heard footsteps behind her, ncing to her side when Joaquin plopped his butt down to the chair beside her.

    "You''re early, my crown princess," he greeted with an amused smirk, tilting his head and arching a brow.

    "I don''t think I am, my crown prince. It''s just everyone in here is tardy and the trial that is supposed to have started is dyed." Her tone bore the same nonchnce as if thest time she met him ended on a good note. She kept her eyes on the court hall while everyone was settling on their respective seats.

    "The people had started whispering. It''ll be terrible if they started voicing out their dismay if the dy is prolonged."

    "You seemed excited for this, which makes me wonderбн" Joaquin chuckled faintly as he leaned back, eyes over the railings. "бн what sort of n do you have up your sleeve? Are you perhaps nning to turn things around?"

    "Hahбн my husband, I do not understand this sudden aggression I am currently receiving. I had told you multiple times if you fall, I would fall as well. Thus, whether or not I like it, I have to choose your side." Joaquin quirked a brow as he nced at her, only to see Aries give him an indifferent side-eye. "Although I would be lying if I said it''s for your sake since my true agenda was to keep my title. I do not want to sweep the streets I owned."

    Joaquin chuckled, amused at how she could keep up the act when he already knew. But well, it was not like he expected her to admit her identity verbally.<sub> </sub>

    "How nice," he muttered, ncing at the court hall, only to see Modesto and the rest of the council arrive and take their seats. "This reminds me of a time in the past when I also sat in a ce like this. However, a trial is not what I was watching, but an execution."

    "Executions had somehow be a source of entertainment. Back in Haimirich, people used to flock to the za every single time as if there was something in its brutality that is stunning. It''s sickening." Aries kept her cold facade as she cast him a look. "That is why I couldn''t understand, why my beloved husband decided to put the entire royal family on the spot as if we''re a bunch of clowns in a circus."

    The corners of his lips stretched as he shrugged. "Guess." His brow arched, ncing at her arms before snapping his eyes up.

    "Say, we haven''t spent time with each other, I''m afraid my favorite feels lonely." Aries nced at his hand while he caressed her arm with the back of it. "Oh, how I missed my favorite."

    "Huhбн" Aries chuckled in ridicule before she leaned back, facing him squarely. "You kept calling me your favorite ever since that time my little Curtis upset you. I wonderбн is this about that ve again?"

    "No, of course not." Heughed, leaning his face closer. "I call you my favorite because you are my favorite."

    "How foolish of me to think there''s hope in this marriage." Her eyshes fluttered seductively, smirking at him. Aries then leaned her face closer until there was only a palm length gap between them, raising her hand as she caressed his jaw with her fingertips.

    "Obviously, my husband is holding onto someone else''s ghost. You''re breaking my heart, Joaquin. I should stop making a fool out of myself." Aries pressed a finger on his lips as she drew away. Meanwhile, his brows wiggled yfully, smacking his lips as he drew his head back as well.

    "You can deny it all you want, my love. However, you''re fooling no one." Joaquin slowly set his eyes back to the court hall, seeing that Carlos was now being dragged to the stand. "I don''t know what Haimirich''s motive for sending you back, but they seemed to have underestimated me. Either way, it''s futile. If anything, I''m d they did, since I wasn''t done having fun with you just yet."

    "You keep hurting my pride as a Vandran but say whatever you want, Your Royal Highness. However, keep in mind that I, a Vandran, will never forget being mistaken as a ve over and over. Such insolence is something I can only tolerate once."

    Both of them talked while watching the people in the court hall settle down. Keeping their cold and unaffectionate countenance, their eyes both glinted when the minister announced;

    "The trial of the eighth prince will nowmence."

 Chapter 231 Make A Mountain Out Of A Molehill

    Just like any other trial, Carlos was put in the middle with chains that bound his hands and feet locked on the floor. He kept his head hung low while everyone was looking down on him, listening to the list of crimes he was involved with.

    "Do you acknowledge these crimesбн" Aries covered her lips as she yawned, feeling a little bored at the lost list of crimes they had been reading. She nced at Joaquin, only to see him smiling at her yfully.

    "Hahбн" she rolled her eyes, shaking her head, before setting her gaze over the railing to see if there was something interesting. The side of her lips stretched slightly as she caught a figure entering and sitting on the chairs on the side near the stand in the middle.

    "Will you look at that, Your Highness?" she jerked her chin in Ismael''s direction with a smirk. "Your real target is sitting over there. How amusing, don''t you think? He should be the person kneeling on that stand and being persecuted for those long list of crimes you prepared for him."

    Aries pressed her lips as she faced Joaquin. "What happened, my husband? I presume it''s a total failure, huh?"

    "Haha. Circe, my love, trying to press my nerves is something you do not want."

    "Oh no, Crown Prince. I didn''t intend to spite you. All I''m saying is it seemed you had growncent. I''m worried since your ns must be full of holes for the third prince toe out of this debacle unscathed." She shrugged, smiling even broader when his eyes glinted. "I''m not that disappointed, just a little surprised. That is why it''s better to stay on the sidelines since there were things people who aren''t involved see that those in the situation cannot."

    Aries leaned forward and shed Ismael a smile when thetter nced up. Ismael smirked slyly and winked, letting Joaquin see it without a care in the world.

    "Myбн how charming," she praised and then shot Joaquin a look. "Don''t worry. The third prince isn''t my type, although he had expressed hisбн attraction towards me. Do you want to hear his corny lines, my husband?"

    Joaquinughed with his lips closed as he endeavored her expression. "Choosing Ismael isn''t the best choice, my crown princess."

    "And you think you''re the best option?" her brow raised as she scoffed, sensing his mood going south. "Well, you''re right. Between you and the third prince, my husband had the upper hand. If I''m going to use my heart, I will stubbornly choose the man I married. However, since he kept insisting on questioning my origins and wounding my prideбн I don''t know anymore."

    "It''s not like I don''t have the means to choose and don''t have the capability to make a mountain out of a molehill," she continued indifferently, casting him a knowing look. "But well, since you''ve hurt my prideбн I''ll let you know why the Vandrans are revered highly in Haimirich, my husband."

    "I''ll show you, my prince," she added as she set her attention back to the court hall. "That I, a Vandran, will never be a ve, for I am capable and not as foolish as to end up bing someone else''s dog. I can''t be tamed, I''m the one who tames."

    Aries smirked as her eyes glinted with contempt, not even concealing it despite feeling Joaquin''s prating gaze on her side. Her lips stretched when Carlos finally raised his head and looked around, only to see Ismael. Even though she couldn''t see his expression, the way his shoulders tensed up was enough for her to know his shock.

    Ismael kept his expression in check, holding Carlos''s eyes coldly. Thetter''s mouth opened and closed, studying Ismael, and noticing how Ismael looked just like usual while he was dirty, beaten, exhausted, and just in distress.<sub> </sub>

    ''Howбн?'' Carlos wondered only to notice Ismael nce in a direction. He looked back up out of instinct, only to see Aries on the top floor smiling at him. His eyes veered to the man sitting beside her. Unlike her expression, Joaquin''s expression was unreadable.

    It was obvious, he thought. That while everyone was booing at him and expressing their dismay at his ''unforgivable'' actions, calling him names, and just petitioning for his execution, those two future monarchs weren''t particrly invested in this trial.

    One lookбн was all it took for Carlos to notice that both the crown prince and the crown princess see the end of this trial differently.

    ''Should I really trust her?'' he wondered, watching Aries face Joaquin and speak words that made thetter frown. ''Ismael somehow emerged from this unscathedбн dyingбн''

    Carlos hung his head low and looked at his dirty body. Aries was correct. Being banished was better than dying instantly. He was capable and skilled enough. The only thing that was deterring him from retaliating was the chains that bound his movements.

    "Hang him!"

    "He had caused so much angst to our Maganti! He should receive the gravest punishment to quench the anger of the public!"

    "He had abused his power and put the royal family into a bad light!"

    The angry voices filled the courtroom and no amount of apprehension had stopped them from voicing out their thoughts. Everyone in this room was waiting for his doom and acknowledging the crimes could have the opposite effect of what he expected. But then again, it would be the same if he denied everything and stubbornly im his innocence.

    "Eighth Prince, do you бк"

    "I''m guilty as of charged." Silence instantly fell upon his confirmation, raising his head at the chief justice and looking at Modesto straight in the eye. "I acknowledge all the crimes and gravely regret my actions. The power I held is something that got into my head, losing sight of what''s important, and consequently, losing my wife and children."

    "I deserved to be punished," he added, taking everyone off guard by the confession they all didn''t expect. As they processed his words, Carlos snuck a look in Aries''s direction only to see her smile in satisfaction. Thetter then faced Joaquin, whose frown grew worse.

    "It seems I won the bet, my husband," said Aries yfully, giggling when he returned her gaze. "The best is yet toe. Just watch."

 Chapter 232 Not Daniella Circe

    "The best is yet toe. Just watch."

    Aries raised her brows yfully, in high spirits at the turn of events. She tilted her head down slightly when Carlos nced up at her.

    As expected, the next several minutes would be filled with the surprised gasped and cheering to persecute the eighth prince after that clean confession. However, the council remained unfazed as they looked at each other before silencing the crowd.

    "Carlos will stand in the gallows," Joaquin spoke after a long time of silence. "I don''t know what you were thinking, but with that confession, he gave the council enough reason to sentence him with death."

    "You don''t know that." Aries tossed her head back, eyes on him. "It''s too early for you to say that, my husband. Too early. As I''ve mentioned, having the upper hand isn''t always a good thing. People growcent; it''s saddening."

    Joaquin chuckled as he cast her a side-eye. "Are you saying you weren''tcent?"

    "I was nevercent, my crown prince. I wake up day by day, preparing myself for the day my dear husband, who never truly trusted me and sees me as hispetition will finally turn his back on me." Her tone slowly grew solemn as her eyes sharpened. "You got yourself a crown princess, not just a princess who will wonder what will happen to me when my husband no longer favors me. That is not how a Vandran is raised."

    "A Vandran." Joaquin snickered, but Aries simply shrugged as she refocused her attention on the chaotic court hall. "You really think you can turn the tides?"

    "Of course not." Aries chuckled as both of them watched the situation from their vantage point. "How can I turn the tides when I''m not the one making the decision?"

    "But people''s hearts are fickle and words when delivered right can impact someone in a way no one else can expect," she added after a momentary pause. "An empty title isn''t as empty since it''s still a title. It''ll only be empty if the person holding it is a fool. You''ll end up as aughingstock."

    Her lips hooked up as her eyshes fluttered beautifully. Aries and Joaquin remained silent even when they announced a recess until the courtroom calmed down. It was just a ten-minute break, but for certain people, that ten minutes felt like ten hours.

    When the trial resumed, Aries faced Joaquin squarely. "Don''t be so angry once the verdict is given, my crown prince."

    "Ha haбн! I will feel bad about you if you end up disappointed." His voice was low yet yful, studying the confidence in her eyes.

    "If it turns out as the opposite of what I believed it will be, you can tie me up." Aries shrugged and chuckled, facing the court hall with a smile. "That only means I failed as a Vandran, and I''m no better than a ve. But sбн I highly doubt that. My pride is at stake, so I would like to rify it once and for all. It''s an annoying issue and not addressing it proved that it''ll only grow worse."

    "Good luck with that." Joaquinughed, but he didn''t really feel threatened or anything about everything that came out of those lips. He was already convinced that his crown princess was Aries and once this was all over бк oh, boy, he had a long list of how to torment her.

    Joaquin was confident nothing would go wrong. The majority in this courtroom was his people. Although it was a surprise Carlos pleaded guilty, that wasn''t enough to change the oue. If anything, that only proved the death penalty was justified.<sub> </sub>

    "With the confession of the eighth princeбн"

    Soon, one of the ministers read what only mattered in this court before reaching the verdict. The lines on Joaquin''s face from his smirk slowly faded the more he listened to the verdict.

    "The remorse the eighth prince had shown throughout the trial, the majority of the council of the supreme justice court concludedбн" the minister continued, dragging all the elements of this deliberation including humanity, morality, gods and whoever legend, and everything to stressed that they thought about this verdict carefully.

    "бн decided that instead of a death penalty, he will be banished in thendбн where he will repent and atone for his sins for the rest of his lifeбн"

    Aries looked up when Joaquin suddenly sprung up to his feet, holding the railings as he gazed at the court hall with wide eyes. Seeing the shock dominating his face, Aries smiled. She nted her palms on the armrest, pushing herself up.

    "Well, I guess there''s nothing much to do here," she muttered, not waiting for Joaquin as she turned around to leave. However, just as she took five steps, a hand grabbed her wrist, spinning her around aggressively.

    "What did you do?" he seethed, eyes bloodshot, feeling betrayed by Modesto and the council, who reassured him Carlos would meet a death sentence.

    "I did nothing, Your Highness." Aries tilted her head to the side, ignoring the numbing pain in her wrist as his grip tightened. "Weren''t we sitting here all along?"

    "Aries."

    "Yes?" His eyes went round when she answered his call without denying it. "What this Aries can do to you, my husband?"

    ? Aries sneered, taking this opportunity to snatch her hand from him. "Your Highness, I told you, people''s hearts are fickle. You underestimateбн no, you overestimate your power and underestimated those around you. Therefore, I conclude,cency is dangerous." She took a step forward, standing on her toes, and whispered in his ears.

    "There are many things I can do other than make you cum in bed," she teased, nting a peck on his naturally contoured cheek before she drew away. "Calm down. As I''ve said, this is far from over my dearest. Sit back and rx. I''m patching up the holes you failed to notice."

    Aries chuckled as he bit her lower lip, winking at him before she happily turned her back against him and walked away in high spirits. She stopped after another five steps and looked back.

    "This is myst warning, my husband dear. Call me another woman''s name, and that''ll be the day you lose your wife." She smirked tauntingly, unfazed by his dark eyes. "You do not want to make an enemy out of a Vandran, Joaquin. Especially, not Danie Circe Vandran."

 Chapter 233 [Thank You For The 150 Golden Tickets]233

    "You do not want to make an enemy out of a Vandran. Especially, not Danie Circe Vandran."

    Joaquin could only look at Aries''s back with nk eyes, standing still in the same spot. Even when a loudmotion exploded in the courtroom, he kept his eyes on where his wife vanished to.

    <strong>What happened?</strong> He wondered. How did she change the oue?

    "That bitchбн" he ground his teeth as murderous intent filled his eyes. His hands curled into a fist until they trembled in anger.

    "Modesto." Joaquin twisted his neck back, marching towards the railings of the second floor, only to see themotion as everyone was questioning the verdict. Much to his dismay, Modesto simply knocked his hammer and spoke sternly.

    "The supreme court of justice agreed by majority votes andбн" he exined while keeping his chin up high. "бн those who questioned the verdict may send their formalints or they will be seized."

    Modesto knocked his hammer once again before he rose from his seat. As they left, Carlos was still bound as he was being dragged away from this chaos. He hung his head low, suppressing hisughter as he truly got a lighter sentence, just like what Aries said.

    Before he could leave, Carlos looked back up, only to catch Joaquin smoldering in anger. The second their eyes met, the side of the eighth prince''s lips hooked up into a taunting smirk before the knight dragged him out.

    "That bastardбн" Joaquin''s grip on the railings tightened. His eyes then veered towards a particr direction and caught Ismael looking back at him, expressionless.

    Ismael didn''t smirk like Carlos or anything of the sort. He just looked Joaquin straight in the eye before he turned around and left.

    "Ariesбн" Joaquin called through his gritted teeth, panting as his heart was pounding against his chest. "No, Circeбн that womanбн"

    With the turn of events, Joaquin didn''t know anymore. One moment, he was certain his wife was his Aries. But the next second, he was questioning this conclusion.

    <strong>Did he make a mistake? </strong>

    "Haimirich," he mumbled, thinking of the empire that sent Aries back to the Maganti Empire. "I''m certain they''re backing her up."

    Joaquin nodded, convincing himself Aries had be this capable because the Haimirich Empire had her back. Who knows? They might''ve sent people to assist her to ruin the Maganti Empire. This was not enough for him to believe he made the wrong call.

    "Before thatбн" he raised his sharp eyes to the empty seats of the judges of the court. "Modestoбн you have surely grown balls. I''ll put you back in your ce."

    Right now, there was only one person who could possibly mess with Joaquin''s ns. It was Aries. Even how Ismael came out of this unscathed, it was all Aries. How did she do it was unknown, but he wasn''t stupid as to not connect the dots.

    But then again, why would Aries leave all these dots out in the open? Myriads of questions hovered over the crown prince''s head, but none of them mattered at the moment.

    Joaquin stormed out of the second floor of the courtroom and left whatevermotion that was going on. He immediately rushed to the first chancery to meet Modesto.

    "Get out of the way," he yelled at the knights guarding the door, eyes bloodshot.

    "But Your Highness бк" the knight could not finish his sentence as he suddenly hung his head low. Joaquin would kill him if he stopped him, so instead the knight stepped aside and gave way.<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin scoffed in irritation and barged inside the chief justice''s chancery with a bang. As soon as he entered, his eyes searched for Modesto and caught him standing in front of the stand, holding two sses of rum.

    "Modesto Vida," the crown prince''s voice shook as he wielded his sword. "You better have a good exnation for going against me. There were tons of people who wants to rece you."

    Modesto simply studied the rattled crown prince, unfazed by the unsheathed sword in his hand. A shallow breath slipped past his lips as he marched towards the desk, cing the sses on top of it.

    "Your Highness, I didn''t have a choice," he exined.

    "Hah! I thought you had prepared a better excuse other than that!" Joaquinughed maniacally, studying the calm middle-aged man as thetter held a ss, his other hand behind him.

    "Please, calm down, Your Highness бк"

    Modesto''s breath hitched as he raised his chin, frozen on the spot when the cold de of the sword touched against the side of his neck. Joaquin didn''t even blink, tilting his head to the side.

    "Calm down?" Joaquin repeated in a ridiculing tone. "You think I will calm down when the people I''ve given mercy betrayed me? Do you see me as a joke?"

    A scoff slipped past his lips, pressing the de against Modesto''s neck until blood oozed from the shallow sh. "Tell me, Modesto. Just what did you gain from agreeing with my wife''s words, hmm? Did she perhaps seduce you and used that body of hers to make you agree?"

    "Your Highness, it''s nothing like бк"

    "Then what?!" Joaquin roared, seething in anger.

    Modesto swallowed a mouthful of saliva, sensing the increasing murderous intent in those pairs of ash orbs. Joaquin was truly angry, and with one wrong word, Modesto''s head would rollover. The crown prince could do that. If he was even the slightest humane and a person who had remorse, Modesto wouldn''t be this scared of this man.

    In other words, Modesto''s fear of Joaquin was bigger than a mountain, so betraying him would take a lifetime of guts.

    "The crown princessбн" Modesto''s lips quivered, swallowing down another mouthful of saliva as he took a deep breath. He closed his eyes and when he reopened them, a glint of resolve flickered across his eyes.

    "бн is someone you need, Your Highness."

    "Hah!" Joaquin tilted his head to the side.

    "Before the trial, the crown princess visited me and asked me to give the eighth prince a lighter sentence if he confessed бк"

    p "Stop going around in circles. My patience is rather short, Vida."</anda>

    "It''s all for your sake, Your Highness!" Modesto yelled while Joaquin arched a brow. "Ple бк please, hear me out, Your Highness. The crown princess is not someone we should make an enemy of becauseбн she had her twisted ways of ying the situation."

 Chapter 234 [Summoning Pen Answered]234

    Before the trial began, and also the same day Joaquin beat Curtis and Gertrude, Aries made a surprise visit to the chief justice''s office. It was her first time meeting Modesto, and since she was the crown princess, he didn''t dare reject her request.

    And if Modesto could change his decision back then, he would''ve done it. Because that visit still bothered him today.

    "I hope my sudden visit doesn''t inconvenience you, minister." Modesto raised his head at the woman sitting across from him.

    "Not at all, your royal highness. I''m just a little surprised," said Modesto. "What do I owe this pleasure?"

    Aries pressed her lips and smiled meekly. "In a rush, are we?"

    "No, it''s justбн"

    "It''s alright." She chuckled, waving mildly. "The purpose of my visit is regarding my husband, the crown prince."

    "Ye бк yes?" His brows knitted in puzzlement.

    "Yes, the crown prince." Aries rocked her head and then shed him a kind smile. "I had been watching the untold unfold from the sidelines and I had been noticing some rming concerns. It had been bugging me and my heart had been in unrest because of it."

    "Your Royal Highness, what are you бк"

    "Will you lend me an ear, minister?" she cocked her head to the side, keeping her amicable smile. "I''m certain once you hear it, you''ll also feel concerned. We are in the same boat, after all. My husband''s downfall will also be mineбн or not. But I sort of grown fond of him."

    Aries leaned back and propped her elbow on the armrest. "Give the eighth prince a lighter sentence if he confessed."

    "What бк?" Her request rendered him speechless momentarily. "Your Highness, with all due respect, the verdict for the trial would be deliberated бк"

    "Give him a lighter sentence." She cut him off as she repeated with a meek smile. "Minister, let me tell you why you should listen to my suggestion."

    "My husband''s ns had been foiled when the third prince was questioned instead of put behind bars. No one expected him to leave this fiasco unscathed, but he did. That only means one thing. Everyone made a miscalction andpromise is just another word for failure."

    "Sure, convict the eighth prince and get nothing from it aside from the little possibility of crippling the third prince," she continued with the same air of nonchnce. "But there was a more roundabout way to gain from this failure of a n."

    The corner of her lips hooked up slyly. "It''ll be a shame to leave everything as it was."

    Modesto furrowed his brows, studying the confidence dominating her face. The next second she opened her mouth, his eyes dted ever so slowly and his jaw fell ajar. The way he looked at her changed, feeling his heart thumped against his chest.

    That very second, one thing had grown clear to the minister. Joaquinбн married a powerful ally or a possible threat to the crown prince''s influence. She didn''t even need to threaten him for him to fear this woman who would also be the empress in the distant future.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>PRESENT TIMEбн</strong>

    Joaquin cocked his head to the side after listening to Modesto''s exnation, blinking countless times. A faint scoff suddenly slipped past his lips, amused at what he heard.<sub> </sub>

    "Hahбн that''s interesting." He rocked his head with his lips closed. He then nced at Modesto''s paleplexion before withdrawing the sword at thetter''s neck.

    "Although I must admit what you said just now is interesting, it won''t save you if it failed."

    "Your Highness." Modesto pressed his palm against the side of his neck, watching Joaquin calmly put his sword back in its sheath. "You must acknowledge the crown princess. She''s a Vandran and although the Vandrans'' don''t have influence in the Maganti Empire, they were well respected in Haimirich. She''s better off being your ally than your enemy."

    Joaquin frowned as he nonchntly nced up. "She''s better off being my ally?" heughed in ridicule.

    "You''re correct. However, a woman like her will eventually craves power."

    "However, thisбн she бк"

    "Minister, you survived today because there''s some relevance to your reasoning. However, once this has proven a failure, I will make sure you and the church would be persecuted ordingly." Joaquin raised his chin and smirked. "I''ll let this one slide, but do this again, and you''ll face consequences."

    With that being said, Joaquin turned around to leave. All Modesto could do was stare at the crown prince''s back while putting pressure on the sh on his neck.

    ''Your Highnessбн'' he clenched his teeth and secretly thought of Aries. ''Once this was proved effectiveбн you have my word.''

    A determined glint flickered across his eyes, staring at the door that mmed closed. Everything he told Joaquin was all the truthбн but that wasn''t all. There were things Modesto kept to himself.

    <strong>''I''ll pledge allegiance to you.''</strong>

    They said cornered dogs could only know how to bark. However, they weren''t dogs but actual men who held the slightest bit of power. They would cower and abide by the man in power, but if someone who could challenge the person in the highest esction appearedбн that would leave more options to people.

    And Ariesбн just made that deration not just to Modesto, but to others as well. It was no longer the third prince and Joaquin anymore. It was now three of them and the new participant was not to be underestimated.

    <strong>******</strong>

    Meanwhile, in the Lazuli Pceбн

    "So, the eighth prince''s got a lighter sentence?" Inez arched a brow after receiving the report regarding the trial today. She leaned her side against the divan set in the famous enormous greenhouse.

    "First, Ismael came out of this fiasco unscathed, and now Carlos got a lighter sentence. Joaquin wasn''t someone who would do this." She narrowed her eyes before the corner of her lips curled up cunningly. "This is quite interesting, indeed. I wonder if this was Ismael''s doing orбн someone else."

    She nced up at the knight standing near the divan. "Monitor the situation. I don''t know what sort of scheme everyone had in mind, but surely, this doesn''t seem it''ll end in that trial."

    "Yes, your highness."

    As the knight bowed and walked away, Inez''s eyes glinted in amusement. Things had been unfathomable ever since that fire which made her wonder what was going on?

    "I have a bad feeling about this."

 Chapter 235 There Must Be A Plan

    "What is going on?"

    Javier breathed out and raised his head at Ismael, who was walking ahead of him after they left the courtroom. He picked up his pace until the two of them were walking side by side.

    "Brother, you don''t seem surprised about it," he pointed out, gazing at Ismael''s side profile, only to see thetter''s unfazed expression. "It''s you?" he asked in disbelief. "Was it yourбн"

    "If you think this is overбн it''s not." Ismael simply cast him an indifferent side-eye. "It''s far from over."

    "What do you mean by that?" Javier looked around cautiously, as his voice was lower than a second ago. And yet, Ismael remained silent as they headed back to the inner pce.

    His pair of silver eyes were sharp, glinting dangerously, but it was still hard to read what this expression truly meant. That was why Javier, no matter how he studied his brother''s expression, couldn''t make up what was going on inside the third prince''s mind.

    Carlos''s sentence should be something they should celebrate, but it seemed Ismael wasn''t happy. Not that he showed clear disapproval either.

    "Javier," Ismael called after minutes of silence and as they entered the back of the inner pce, where there were no people around. "Send people to watch over the group who will escort the eighth prince."

    The fourth prince knitted his brows as he gazed at Ismael''s unchanging countenance. "Why do you бк you don''t mean you will ambush them and help our brother flee?"

    There was a long silence between the two, increasing anxiety for Javier. His eyes were round and wide, in utter disbelief at the order he just heard.

    "Brother, hold on. You said you barely emerged from this scheme. If you send your men to бк" Javier halted from speaking and walking, gazing at Ismael''s back, wide-eyed.

    Ismael slowly stopped in his steps as he turned around to face the shocked Javier, who seemed to have grasped his ns.

    "A small unit of the fourth prince." Ismael unhesitatingly rified, meaning he didn''t have to put his name on the stake since the people he meant were Javier''s men.

    "Whatбн?"

    "Do you have trust in me, brother?" asked Ismael, tilting his head while Javier scoffed.

    "I do, of course! However, what about you? Do you have trust in me? Or are youбн"

    "I already told you, Javier. I still trust you, but if you truly see me as someone fit for the title, wasn''t my safety your priority?" he blinked almost innocently. "I had risked and still risking things I do not want to lose, brother. With my current disposition, I cannot act on my own and can only rely on you."

    Ismael advanced on Javier''s standpoint and ced a hand over thetter''s shoulder. He looked him in the eye, nodding encouragingly.

    "I won''t give out this order if I know it will be dangerous for you," he continued solemnly. "Trust meбн blindly, Javier. It may sound ridiculous, but that''s all you need to do and I will assure you the rewards for it will be handsome."<sub> </sub>

    Javier swallowed down a mouthful of air that echoed in his ear. He looked at Ismael while thetter tapped his shoulder before he turned around to leave.

    Trust him blindly? Not that Javier didn''t trust Ismael even before, but he never trusted him blindly. Why would he? Doing that also meant having his other foot in the grave. Look what happened to Carlos! Javier was always the person who didn''t want to risk it all and leave room for himself if things went from bad to worse.

    But now, Ismael was basically asking him to ride or die with him and be his mindless tool. A decision he had to make between himself and Ismael. The third prince wasn''t weing warm people who couldn''t entirely devote themselves to him, just like before.

    He balled his hands into a tight fist until they trembled. For the longest time, Javier stood there as if his foot were nailed to the ground, staring in the direction where Ismael went to.

    "No matter how you twist itбн" he whispered, lowering his eyes as he felt his blood run cold. "бн you trust no one anymore."

    <strong>********</strong>

    Meanwhile, in the prison where Carlos was locked inбн

    After his trial, Carlos was still dragged aggressively back to his cell. He gazed through the metal bars as the piercing sound of metal rang in his ear while the knights locked his cell.

    "Fuckingбн" he spat out in ridicule, exchanging re with the knight before thetter walked away with a few of them. This time, however, they didn''t take away the torch outside the cell, giving Carlos some light. Neither did they bind his hands and feet.

    "Hahбн" Carlosughed under his breath, dragging himself until his back was up against the concrete wall. He spread his leg on the dirty straws on the floor, eyes fixated ahead and through the metal bars.

    ''Will shee?'' he wondered, swaying his feet sideways as he waited for Aries toe. ''I didn''t think the situation will be just as she said, but wellбн Ismael didn''t seem surprised at the verdict. Did he perhaps get the crown princess on our side and he didn''t tell us?''

    Myriads of questions hovered over the eighth prince''s head while waiting for Aries to make an appearance. Although she didn''t say she would see him, it was only logical for her to visit him before they escort him to an isted ce where he would repent for his sins his entire life.

    ''There must be a nбн'' he thought. His eyes glinted as he narrowed his eyes, thinking of his ''deceased'' sons. ''I will avenge them.''

    Carlos was certain Aries had a n since she went to him and manipted the verdict. Also, by this, she already dered she favored Ismael and not the crown prince, her husband. Knowing Joaquin, they all wouldn''t be safe if they didn''t go all out.

    ''What''s taking herбн'' he narrowed his eyes, trying to see what was beyond the heavy darkness where the light from the torch couldn''t reach. He could hear footsteps; there were many of them. Soon, a small unit of five knights stood on the other side of the cell.

    "What are you doing?" asked Carlos, seeing the knights unlock the cell until they opened it aggressively. "Hey! What the бк"

    Not a single one of them answered him as if they were mute while Carlos yelled and resisted, but to no avail. The knights dragged him out of the cell, holding his arms securely. But when Carlos was growing aggressive at the uncertainty of the situation, they had no choice but to knock him out.

 Chapter 236 The Story That Will Be Told

    "Urghбн"

    Carlos grunted at the striking pain in his head, and the constant bounce wasn''t soothing it. He opened one of her eyes, looking around the seemingly windowless carriage. It took him a moment to grasp the situation, recalling what happened before he was in this dark space of what seemed to be a small cart that he barely fit.

    "Rightбн" he looked around after reviewing his memories, noticing the light from the thin gap around the small slide бк a small window бк for eyes to peek through from the outside. "Are they escorting me out of the capital now?"

    "It must be." He nodded after several seconds, moving until his back was resting up the wall. "This is not helping. I feel dizzy."

    Carlos gaged and then huffed to save himself from throwing up. His body was bouncing along the carriage, keeping his eyes open in this darkness until his vision fully adjusted and he could see his feet.

    "Why are they in a hurry?" he wondered.

    He had been a prince ever since he was born. So he had seen many things growing up. Since his trial ended and he received the banishment as punishment, they should escort him tomorrow, not on the same day, because there would be more opposition and things to settle.

    Carlos''s case was a special one and thus, he didn''t expect they would move him hours after his trial ended. It was strange since he should''ve gotten the death penalty. Still, he remained calmed and believed this was part of Aries''s n.

    "Hold on." His brows creased as he pondered about the situation deeply. "Is this what she meantбн"

    <o>,m His eyes slowly dted, cked jaw. He only had one conclusion in his head and that was Aries was nning to help him escape. His breath hitched, letting his brain work twice faster than ever until the sides of his lips stretched from ear to ear.</o>

    "Hahбн ahah!" came out a low chuckle, running his hand through his frizzy, tousled hair. "That womanбн"

    There was no doubt that was the n. Aries had mentioned something about being able to do something if he was banished and things he wouldn''t be able to once he was dead. It only meant she nned to help him escape so he could move. Although Carlos was certain he would be a wanted man, it didn''t matter anymore.

    He could still live the life he wanted to; indulge with women and wine. He would only lose the title, but with this, he could still exact his revenge.

    He smirked a sinister grin. "Joaquinбн" his eyes glinted, thinking of many ways to mess with that man.

    Unlike his mindset back inside the cell with no hope of avoiding the guillotine, Carlos''s mind and focus drifted into something else. Never once he had ever thought of his ''deceased'' wife and sons бк although his sons were still at the back of his head. But the dominant part of his brain focused more on messing with the crown prince and regaining the life he had before his freedom was taken away.

    "Who are you!?"

    Carlos smirked when the carriage halted, and he heard a man''s hostile voice outside. He couldn''t see what was going on outside, but the knights'' questions and then, followed by the sound of swords being drawn, were enough for him to picture the situation.

    They were ambushed. But he was confident they didn''te to take his head, but to save him.

    "Oopsбн" he flinched when a sword suddenly impaled through the wall from the other side, just an arm''s length away from where he was leaning. "Hey! Be careful!" he yelled, dragging his butt in the middle of this small windowless carriage to avoid getting struck.<sub> </sub>

    The noises outside went on and on for minutes while he simply whistled, waiting for it to be over. After ten minutes, the loud thuds, the metal shing, and grunts and yells outside slowly subsided until it was just utter silence.

    "Finallyбн" he whispered, gazing at the small entrance of the carriage until it flung open. Carlos squinted his eyes at the sudden light, gazing at the man standing in front of the entrance wearing ck clothes with a ck veil covering half of his lower face.

    "Get out," said the man in ck, while Carlos just scoffed.

    "Sure." Heughed, dragging himself until he stood outside the carriage. The first thing he did was to look around the woods where they were ambushed. His smirk persisted even at the sight of the bodies of the royal knights lying in their own pool of blood.

    He raised his head at the men in ck. Although his escort wasrger in number, the people who ambushed them were skilled enough to kill every single one of them бк or not.

    "Why haven''t you killed him?" he frowned when he noticed one knight sitting by the tree nearby, holding his injured shoulder. Carlos quirked a brow as he gazed at the person standing near him бк the same person who asked him to get out of the carriage.

    "What?" he asked, gazing at the other people wearing uniformed ck attire, who returned his gaze silently. "Why are you looking at me like that? Let''s go and meet бк"

    His breath hitched when they suddenly drew their swords and pointed them at him. He took a step back on instinct, wide-eyed. Through his peripheral, he noticed one of them approach the knight sitting injured by the tree and spoke like a knight.

    "Captain, the other forces following us had a confrontation with the second unit. They won''t arrive here on time."

    The captain rocked his head in understanding. He pushed himself up, still holding his shoulder, and advanced in Carlos''s direction.

    "Your Highness," he called when he stopped a few feet away from Carlos, waiting for him to look back at him. "You had received mercy, but s, your greed took it for granted by massacring everyone in an attempt to flee. I, Climaco, the captain of the second squadron, and also Her Royal Highness''s loyal knight, had no other choice but to fight you to death."

    Carlos''s eyes went even wider at how this story would be told back in the capital. He was wrong; he thought. Aries didn''t help himбн she used him for her own personal benefit.

    Climaco smirked and then nced at the men in ck. "Her Highness ordered a swift release." He set his eyes back to Carlos and tilted his head down.

    "She said kill him at one strike so he wouldn''t feel the pain too much."

    With that being said, Climaco turned around and limped away without ever looking back despite Carlos'' desperate yelling and attempt to fight everyone to survive.

    "Danie Circe!!!" was Carlos''st words that were full of hatred.

    And thenбн his voice was no longer heard.

 Chapter 237 En Passant

    "En passant."

    Aries took out a pawn on the chessboard, cing it on the side, along with a few pawns. Her lips curled up, gazing up at the person across the round table.

    "Come on, Abel. You''re not even trying." She leaned back while Abel grinned yfully.

    "I am trying," he argued and shrugged. "It''s just you''re good at it."

    "Not as good as you."

    "Wellбн I doubt." Heughed, studying the expression stered on her face. Her eyes flickered triumphantly, yet she kept her demure in check.

    How sexy.

    "So? Didn''t you say you will give him mercy?" His brows rose, batting his eyes ever so tenderly. "The banished prince. I thought you had forgiven him."

    "You didn''t seriously think of that, did you?"

    "Well, don''t mind me. I''m just the type of person who voices out my thoughts when I''m watching something and I always leave room for all possibilities."

    Aries chuckled weakly as she watched him move a piece on the chessboard. "That''s my mercy," she remarked, waiting for Abel to look back at her. "If they execute him via guillotine, Joaquin will order someone to rece the de with a blunt one. It''ll take a few tries before his head will roll over."

    "My, my... how scary!" he intoned with a p. "I wonder what he''ll do to you if he figures out your disguise."

    "He''ll kill me, obviously."

    "Goodness..." he gasped with his hand on his chest. "Will he kill you too if he knew about this affair?"

    Aries cast him a quick look. "He''ll butcher you in front of me and then torment me."

    "Darling... are you perhaps the crown prince in disguise?" he humored. "You speak with so much certainty."

    "Because I know my husband more than anyone." She shrugged. "They said a man''s wife knows their husband so well as if the wires in their brains were connected to each other. Maybe that''s why."

    "Rightбн I''m not your husband."

    "Yes, you''re not. You are my matchmaker," she teased and winked. "Have you forgotten you set up this marriage?"

    Abel frowned as he leaned back, arms on the armrest, legs resting over the other. His eyes scanned his enchanting lover across from him in silence.

    "Darling, I believed this is the time we''re supposed to be ripping each other''s clothes instead of ying chess," he remarked as he raised his chin up. "Let me covet someone''s wife for the thrill of it."

    Ariesughed as he seemed a little pissed by her constant teasing. Oh, how she missed ying around with him instead of sneaking like rats, but wellбн this was still thrilling in a way. They were like role-ying бк what a sinful thought. But since her husband was Joaquin, she felt no remorse formitting adultery. It was not like their marriage was out of love or pure intention.

    "What?" Abel urged, blinking almost innocently. "Should we have sex, darling?"<sub> </sub>

    "You sound like you''re simply asking for a treat." She humored andughed when he rolled his eyes.

    "Well, because I am, darling!" he intoned. "What''s the difference? I eat both."

    "It''s been a while since I got to touch your face, but if I do, I will kiss it and bite your cheek and then lick it like a dog." Abel licked his lips and bit them, gazing at her from head to her bosom. "Unless I bite too hard and gnaw off your skin."

    She burst out inughter despite knowing she shouldn''t beughing at the dark joke. "Really? And then what? Have you had enough inmitting adultery that you''re shifting to cannibalism now?"

    "Darling, Morro will be sad for making that sound like it''s a bad thing!"

    "Because it isбн for a human, of course. Morro is a raven, so I don''t me him if he devours dead bodies."

    "Well, surprise, surprise, I''m not a human."

    "Haha! If you''re not a human, then what are you?"

    Aries kept her grin until it slowly faded when Abel kept quiet. Her brows rose under his odd gaze.

    "An ancient creature who inherited the devil''s blood, which made me a blood-sucking monster d in human skin," he answered after a moment with an air of nonchnce around him. "I don''t die too and I know witchcraft."

    There was a long silence between them as Aries knitted her brows before sheughed. Although Abel''s demeanor was almost the same, there was something odd about the look in his eyes. It was as ifбн he wasn''t joking, she thought.

    "Goodness, Abel. Just what sort of book are you reading to kill time?" she chuckled weakly, tossing whatever thought in her mind out of her head. "Well, anyway, although it disheartens me, I''ve been gone for quite a long time. People will start looking for me if they didn''t see me soon."

    Aries pushed herself up and smiled genuinely at him. Aside from Curtis, she could only smile like this in front of him and be Aries бк be herself.

    "Behave, alright?" she warned with a raised finger, narrowing her eyes. When he saw him shrug without speaking a word, Aries smacked her lips and pivoted on her heel. But as she marched towards the door, she halted and looked back, only to see him staring at her in silence.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips. Parting with him was always tough, making her a bit anxious and sad at the same time. So, without thinking twice, Aries walked back to him. He simply arched a brow as he watched her approach.

    "Why aren''t you saying anything?" she asked, standing on the side of his chair. "It makes me wonder what is going on inside your mind."

    Abel slowly raised his head and his lips slowly parted. "Stay with meбн is what I want to ask," he confessed in azy voice. "Will you? If I asked? Without having a more rational exnation other than the three words I missed you?"

    Aries pursed her lips and, without a second hesitation, she sat down on hisp, her legs over the armrest. Her eyes fluttered, resting her arms over his shoulder.

    "All you need to do is ask бк you don''t need an exnation or a reason. You know that." Her hand crawled through his hair, massaging his scalp. "Just ask, Abel. That''s all you need to do."

    "Then, stay." His eyes glinted, pulling her waist closer. "Stay with me."

    Her lips curled up subtly. "Happily."

 Chapter 238 Hurt People Hurt People.

    Normally, Aries and Abel wouldn''t waste time, as they would always find themselves stripping each other''s clothes and tangled in a passionate kiss as if their time was running out. It was as if whenever their eyes meet or their hand touched, the electricity that would travel through every fiber of their bodies was enough to create tension between them.

    But todayбн was different.

    Instead of ending up naked in each other''s embrace, Aries remained seated on hisp. The side of her body was leaning against his front, giggling as they y with each other''s hands. There wasn''t anything funny with what they were doing, but her giggles and his weak chuckles would constantly resonate across the lodging room they were in.

    "I like your hand," she broke the silence with a smile, keeping his slender fingers in between hers and gazing at his clean nails. "They look like they''re hands of a pianist. They''re steady and strongбн it can glide across the keyboards effortlessly."

    ? Aries raised her gaze and faced him squarely. "Do you know how to y the piano?"

    "Mhm." Her eyes slightly went wide when he hummed in response. "But ying is not what these hands are good for."

    "And what are they for?"

    "Snapping necks." He smirked while she frowned at his humor. Abel took a deep breath, fighting dominance with their hands as his fingers wrapped around hers. "I''m not joking. These hands were born to take lives."

    Her frown deepened, staring at him while he focused his eyes on their hands. "Who told you those hands are born to take lives?"

    "The world." Abel raised his chin and shed her a subtle smile. "And the people in it."

    "That''s strange. You don''t listen, nor do you care about other people''s opinions."

    "Now, I don''t, but I used to."

    "Can you tell me?" she asked in a soft voice. "What was Abel like before I met the tyrant?"

    Abel pressed his lips as he leaned back, cing a hand on the side of her head. He guided her head until it was resting on his shoulder.

    "I forgot. It''s been a long time," he replied, pressing the side of his head on hers. "What was he likeбн? All I can remember isбн he used to like people."

    His eyelids drooped until they were partially closed to hide the lingering sadness behind them.

    "So much so as to let them take advantage of him, thinking that is the only way to be epted. But in the end, they burned him in the stakes. He forgives them, onceбн twiceбн until he can no longer count how many times he died in hopes his sincerity will get through them." Aries frowned as his voice sounded low, automatically tranting his words into a more simple exnation as a young prince being sandwiched in politics.

    "Hurt people hurt people," he continued. "Although hurting others just because a person was hurt wasn''t a justifiable excuse for their atrocious deeds, but it is what it is."

    Abel let her pull herself away from him to sit upright as he added, "It''s either you or them," gazing at her with soft eyes.

    "It''s that why you told me that if I had to choose between you and me, I should choose myself?" she asked and then threw another question when he shrugged mildly. "Why?"<sub> </sub>

    "What''s there in me that I had to choose myself over you?" she rified after a few seconds.

    He kept his mouth shut, raising his other hand, and tucked the stray hair behind her ear. "Because I simply want to be a part of your world, and not be your world."

    "But you were doing theplete opposite."

    "Not my fault." He smiled subtly, caressing her jaw with the back of his hand. "All I''m doing is expressing my affection. I didn''t mean toбн" бк although he wanted to.

    "And how deep is that affection?"

    "Hmmбн I didn''t measure."

    "Just give me an example."

    "Will you drink my blood straight from my vein, darling?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Because I will," he answered, ignoring the puzzlement in her eyes. "Not for pleasure бк well, sort of, not like I have a choice. More like, I want you in my veins, darling. If I''m going to measure now, I''d say it''s deeper than the pits of hell and higher than the heavens."

    "You''re making me sad." She frowned, feeling this grip around her heart.

    "Shouldn''t that make you feel the opposite?" he chuckled, hooking the side of her lips up so she would stop frowning. "Stop frowning."

    "That''s because you speak so cruelly," she mumbled, lowering her eyes to hide the sadness in them. "You make things sound like if you didn''t involve yourself with me, thenбн there''s no way I''d be a part of your world. No, it feels like you''re just a part of mine, but I''m never actually a part of yours."

    Aries raised her eyes once again with pursed lips. She had finally put the right words on what she had been feeling, even in the past. And with this knowledge in mind, the seemingly invisible distance between them was finally clear.

    She wasn''t close; he was still beyond her reach, and it left a bitter taste in her mouth.

    "You are my world," he remarked after a very long time, taking her by surprise. "If you shatter, I will too. That''s why you have to choose yourself over me, because my life depends on you, darling. If you cry, I will bleed, and if you break, I will die. I don''t think I will ever recover if that happens."

    Abel cupped her cheek, brushing it with his thumb, eyes on her lips. "I''ll burn this worldpletely and I will not stop until it''s ruined if it did something to my world under my watch." He paused, gazing up into her eyes.

    "Same with this Maganti Empire. If you let them hurt you, make sure it is somewhere I wouldn''t see while you are naked. Or else this entire n is over. I''ll kill every single one of them бк innocent or not бк no mercy." Abel leaned his face closer and whispered.

    "Because that''s the only thing this primitive person is good at; it''s all about between this world or my world. The answer is obvious."

 Chapter 239 The Nightmare She Had Chosen And Will Keep Choosing

    "Because that''s the only thing this primitive person is good at; it''s all about between this world or my world. The answer is obvious."

    Aries closed her eyes as Abel leaned closer, expecting a long, ardent kiss. But he simply kissed her tenderly, whichsted for several seconds. She reopened her eyes ever so slowly, watching him drew his head back. Silence fell on them as all they did for minutes was stare at each other.

    "Will you not fix me?" she broke the silence with a whisper, clutching his shoulders when he shook his head mildly. "Why?"

    "That''s not my job, darling. You fix you and I fix me." Abel tipped his head until his forehead bumped against hers lightly. "I like the way you are."

    "I don''t like the way I am." Aries lowered her eyes, the bitterness in them unseen.

    "Well, that''s you, not me."

    "Do you like the way you are?"

    "No."

    Aries went silent for several seconds before she whispered. "But I like the way you areбн" бк even if he was a menace, even if Abel was a lunatic, and even if he was akin to a devil incarnate.

    But Aries also knew the two of themбн needed some fixing. Abel surely thought of that as well. Their rtionship might appear a little normal, but it wasn''t. How could they have a normal rtionship when both of them weren''t normal?

    Their reasoning was twisted, and they were holding on to each other for anything but righteousness. But then again, what was right? Aries didn''t know what was good and evil anymore. The lines were blurry, and all that was clear to her was the turmoil in her heart and those who fueled it.

    "You don''t like the way I am," he replied after a moment, making her frown slightly. "You don''t even know what I am."

    "What are you?"

    "I just told you what I am."

    "Abel." Aries huffed faintly, helpless in the somber mood swallowing the two of them that left her a little breathless.

    "Darling, what if I am a monster d in human skin? A monster who never dies? And drink the blood of another?" he asked in an oddly quiet voice, eyes on her.

    Aries pursed her lips as she pondered his question. She knew deep in her heart this was just an example, but the look in his eyes was different. It was hard to point out what the emotion in his eyes was, but her heart knew she needed to answer appropriately and honestly.<sub> </sub>

    "You''re already a monster I am terrified of," came out a whisper. "What is the difference between the man who snaps a soldier''s neck at our first meeting and an actual monster who simply looked different and had done nothing to me just yet? The monster I met over a year agoбн that man who imed my lips andmented it was nd yet passable; the man who asked me about my rating in bed without regard to how traumatizing it was with just the sheer thought of lying naked with yet another unknown man, and the person who imed my heart, healed it, and epted all its ws but doesn''t want to take responsibility for it?"

    She paused as she cupped his cheek delicately. "I had always thought you were a monster, Abel. Not because you sometimes wonder how many times you need to step on someone''s head before you crush his skull or your capability of ruining anynd without lifting a finger." Her eyes fluttered ever so tenderly, staring into those pair of deep red that always seemed to glow, especially in the dark.

    "You scared me because you always make me wonderбн once I am all healed and open, will you stab me to death? I always wonder when will I lose your favor and fall into the abyss as I helplessly watch you find another person who will give you the thrill you were looking for?" she continued under her breath, leaving her heart out there in the open which she never truly did in the past. "You always scare me, but I still find myself running back in your arms the moment I see you. Despite all those fears lingering in my heart and rotten soul, I still offered you everything without giving myself room for an exit."

    "Now tell me, what sort of monster would still terrify me if death isn''t what I am scared of?" she breathed out.

    There weren''t many things that terrified her anymore since she had died many times when thend of Rikhill had fallen. She died over and over with everything she experienced in this verynd they were standing on.

    "If blood was a necessity for you, then have mine. If you cannot die, then I will reincarnate over and over to be with you. It may sound ridiculous, but I am desperate to prove there are no lengths I will not go to for you." Aries added when all she received from him was silence while staring at her. "Don''t push me away just to search for me desperately, just like that night." бк that night she left the Rose Pce only to return when she realized she had no one else but him.

    "We''re crazy, but not that crazy."

    Abel bit his tongue until it bled to stop himself from going for the idea that crossed his head. He would show herбн but not now, he thought.

    "Youбн are a genius for speaking the things I would like to hear." Abel pinched her chin and his thumb caressed her lower lip gently.

    "They were my honest thoughts, and that''s the nightmare I chose," she corrected and smiled subtly. "Once things are over in here, let''s start over, Abel. y the piano for me so I can be the judge if those hands are only good for taking lives."

    Aries kept her forced smile as she didn''t want to end this meeting on a terrible note; she knew it was already terrible but in a heart-gripping way. Abel sometimes just makes her sad.

    "For now, I have to strike while the iron is hot." She sandwiched his face with her palm and showered him with gentle pecks from his forehead, nose, and down to his lips. "I''ll see you around."

    <strong>*******</strong>

    When Aries left, Abel had his eyes fixated on the door for a very long time. He slowly peeled his eyes away from it to the chessboard. His eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, taking out the king she was ying previously.

    "You don''t know what you''re talking about," he whispered, watching his hand that was holding the chess piece slowly shift with his nails growing longer, darker until his hands just looked like a hand of a devil.

 Chapter 240 Not A Monster In The Making Anymore

    Aries didn''t n to see Curtis for a while since she would be busy and she didn''t want him to get caught up with her shady business. But after her meeting with Abel, she found herself standing in front of Curtis'' room for a very long time before she entered.

    Good thing Curtis wasn''t asleep yet while he was lying on his side. Aries sat down on the armchair near the bed, exchanging looks with him in silence.

    "Curtis, do you remember the time you said you had fallen in love?" she broke the silence after a long time. "What is it like? I mean, loveбн what is it like?"

    As expected, Curtis was just staring at her without speaking a word. Her lips curled up bitterly, letting out a deep exhale as she lowered her eyes.

    "Honestly, I don''t know what true love really is. Was it just as terrifying as I thought it was? Joaquin told me back in Rikhill he loved me, but then led his army and ruined ournd. He let me watch everyone get executed and took every bit of what he can take from me. When he had enough, he shared me like an old, used toy." Ariesughed weakly in ridicule, summarizing the first form of love she encountered years back that wasn''t meant to be tonic.

    "If that is what love meansбн then I do not want love." She raised her eyes at him again, conflicting emotions in her eyes. "Buttely... I sort of understand Joaquin in a way."

    Aries sighed deeply, leaning back, eyes up. Curtis still had his eyes on her, but she ignored it as she recalled her talk with Abel today.

    "Love seemed to be a very vicious emotion, Curtis. Because if love is embracing someone so tightly but still feels they''re too far and so you want to chew your way under their skin or have them in your veins, then I think I am in love." Sheughed faintly once again. "Or was I sick of having these dark and chilling thoughts?"

    Silence was the only answer she received. She didn''t understand the emotion behind Abel''s eye, but it bothered her. He made her sad in a way no one else could ever, making her want to split her heart just toplete his.

    "I shouldn''t be thinking about this right now since I should be dealing with other things, but somehowбн I''m terrified," she continued in the same tone that was only above a whisper. "What will happen to us once everything is over?"

    Aries slowly set her eyes back to Curtis, and he was just staring at her almost innocently. Her lips curled up bitterly, smacking her lips before she forced a much broader smile.

    "Davien used to ask me what sort of man will manage to seduce a tomboy like me, and I used to tell him unless he''s scarier than the devil with a face of an angel, then they won''t even have a chance. I think I took that joke quite seriously, and it manifested in me becauseбн I ended up with such a man." Her mind drifted to the look on Abel''s face and recalled the ssic devious smirk he would usually give her. "He''s a hundred times scarier than the devil and a person who had a guaranteed spot in hell бк he''ll be legendary there, for sure."<sub> </sub>

    "There were manyбн tens of thousands of reasons I shouldn''t yearn for a person like him. Joaquin did me wrong and created the current Aries. But then again, whenever I think about it, there would also be a lot of Arieses if only Abel let them all live longer." бк because, at the end of the day, Abel was still someone who antagonized people.

    Joaquin and Abel had different ways of tormenting people, but both ended with one conclusion. Their actions would bear vengeance. Aries wasn''t as crazy as to justify Abel''s actions with his past because, in the first ce, Abel never justified his actions.

    Now, that was another difference between Abel and Joaquin. Abel knew he was evil and his wickedness was bottomless.

    "Now, he''s telling me I am his worldбн? Me?" sheughed, tapping her fingertips against the armrest. "It''s ttering, and even when I say I am confused, I think I understood him deep down."

    "Justбн what the hell was he expecting from me after all this time?" she continued, setting her eyes back to the silent Curtis. Aries kept quiet, reviewing everything Abel had done and took out only the key points of why he thought of this idea of sending her into this ce and connecting it to his statements today.

    It took her minutes to mull about it, listening to the constant tap of her fingers against the armrest. When another minute had passed, sheughed in ridicule as if she finally figured out Abel''s real reason.

    "Reallyбн" she chuckled and set her focus back to Curtis once again. "I always thought men are a bunch of simpletons. Davien and you always protest whenever I say that, but you''re right. There were men out there who were far tooplicated for their own good."

    Aries pressed her lips as she remembered all those good times with the men in her life before the tragedy. Her eyes softened after a moment, leaning her upper body over to reach for his hand. She caressed the scars on the back of his hand with her thumb gently in an attempt to soothe them.

    "He is giving me a tough decision and I am foolish to only realize that now," she whispered but her subtle smile persisted. "I am in an unstoppable current and I''m not a monster in the making anymore. What they did to me and to you and to ournd is something I cannot forgive, Curtis. And every damn time I think about it, my blood boils."

    "Their demise is what I only want right now, and I won''t stop." She paused and squeezed his hand. "But if somehowбн never mind. Time will only tell how angry I was."

 Chapter 241 [Bonus Chapter]Its All About The Trade

    "The Imperial Law had granted mercy to everyone, from peasants to those aristocrats and the royal family. We had believed that life is precious and everyone deserved a chance despite their atrocious deeds, in hopes they would change and find the right path in life. Although there were a few who takes advantage of our just and mercifulw, we still believed justice will prevail!"

    Joaquin stood in front of the many people gathered in the heart of the capital. Standing tall on the raised tform. He kept his chin up whilst making a speech.

    "The eighth prince, Carlos Imperial, was arrested for countless felonies and received mercy. However, as he was being transported outside of the capital, he had attempted to escape and killed almost all the knights escorting his carriage before he met his doom." He huffed faintly, ncing at the crowd.

    Joaquin then walked out of the stand before him, standing in the open.

    "As a part of the royal family and the crown prince of the empire, I am utterly ashamed that my brother was blinded by greed and ambition. Thus, I bow my head to ask for your forgiveness."

    Gasped and murmurings instantly exploded in the za as Joaquin lowered his head deeply to show his sincerity. The smirk and glint in his eyes were unseen. When he raised his head once again, all everyone saw was a humble and righteous prince.

    "But as I''ve said, no one is above thew and I will make sure it will be imposed at all times! It doesn''t matter if you''re a peasant,moner, or aristocrat, thew will be the judge! Even the royal family or myself will be humbled before thewбн!"

    After Joaquin spoke about the incident regarding the eighth prince, he highlighted the goodness of the empire and itsw and, of course, himself. Humbling himself publicly had always been a good show to capture the people''s hearts, calming them down, gaining their trust, and then their support.

    ? With Joaquin''s charming face and demure, a touching story between good and evil was a perfect twist to make himself appear as the hero. Although there would be some people who wouldn''t buy such a story, many would, and that was all that matters.

    As the loud cheering and shouts; "Long live the emperor, long live the crown prince! Long live Maganti!" resonated across the entire capital.

    Aries, who was watching Joaquin from the balcony of a noble estate situated not far away from the za, kept an expressionless face.

    "Was building a statue for the crown prince a good idea?" she asked, keeping her eyes on the tform where she could see Joaquin basking in the people''s cheering. Her brow arched, ncing at the person sitting across the small round table.

    "Why? Are you nning to make him a God?" Ismael spat out in disdain, ncing at the za. "He''s a person who likes attention. If you want to please him, then surprise him with a monument. It would be funny if it was naked."

    She chuckled as she peeled her eyes away from the za and back to Ismael. Aries scrutinized his apathetic countenance and then nced at the untouched tea in front of him.

    "Third Prince, you hadn''t touched your tea," she noticed. "It''s not poisoned."

    "I didn''t say it was, Your Royal Highness. It''s just that I don''t think I will ever digest anything you give me."

    "How heart-breaking."<sub> </sub>

    "I don''t trust you, and that is not a secret." He shrugged bluntly, leaning back, eyes on her. "Although I''m on your side now, after what you did to Carlos, trusting you blindly is a guaranteed doom for me."

    Aries rocked her head, reaching for the teacup slowly. "I can''t me you, nor will I force you to think otherwise." Her eyes were over the rim as she spoke.

    "Will you tell me your next n now that you''re done squeezing every benefit you can get from my brother?" he inquired, cocking his head to the side as he believed this was the reason she summoned him to meet her in this ce.

    "My ns, huh? Well, I wouldn''t say I don''t have a n, but I simply invited you because I hadn''t met you since that night." Heughed at her reply while she ignored the touch of sarcasm in it. "Your Highness, you could''ve been the person standing over there and making that speech. I''m not as meticulous as you think I was. All I did was speak a few words and copied your original ns."

    "It''s just that instead of you doing a speech regarding the crown prince, it was my husband who was being cheered for his humbleness and moral conduct against the evil eighth prince," she continued as she ced the teacup back on the saucer. "But that doesn''t mean we have nothing to celebrate about."

    This time, his thick brows furrowed, puzzled at her remarks. She once again let out a faint chuckle before raising her chin, eyes glossing over the za.

    "Just like the crown prince, he had his losses and wins. He didn''t get your head and still has to deal with you, but in exchange for that, his public image and support will skyrocket. Everything is about trade, Your Highness." Her eyes gazed back at him as the side of her lips curled up into a smirk. "And that was quite a good trade for him, don''t you think?"

    "I lost half of my people," he stressed. "I don''t think we gained more than we lost, crown princess. Don''t forget Joaquin will not let you off, knowing your potential and he will definitely be more suspicious of you."

    Sheughed. "Your Highness, it is true you lost a lot of your people. But your gain is way better than hundreds of them бк me. Think of it as trading a hundred pebbles for a diamond. It''s a cheap price to pay if you asked me." He scoffed at her response.

    "Regarding the crown prince and my originsбн it''s more suspicious if I tried so hard to conceal it. The more he goes back and forth about his suspicion about whether I was ''that woman'' or simply resembled her, the more he will think it''s his own issue, not mine." Aries smirked. "What I learned beforeing to this ce is that when one is undecided, it''s the best time to strike."

    "Don''t be so blinded by your worries, Ismael. You should rejoice just like those people who were celebrating at their little gain," she added.

    Aries paused as she picked up the teacup to her lips, leaning back to enjoy it. "We gained more."

    Knock knockбн

    Ismael furrowed his brows as he nced at the ss door connecting the terrace where they were having tea to the room. His brow arched when a butler came in, holding a tray with a letter on it. He stretched his neck mildly to get a glimpse of the letter and, to his surprise, the seal on it was the official seal of Modesto Vida.

    "I told you," Aries smirked, waving the letter to show off the seal. "Our lossesбн including that speech, are a rather cheap pricepared to our gains. Thew is ours."

 Chapter 242 A Message To The Younger Aries

    "Our lossesбн including that speech, are a rather cheap pricepared to our gains. Thew is ours."

    Ismael gazed at Aries, wide-eyed. He knew Aries had a talk with Modesto, the man who betrayed the empire for what Ismael believed was his own gain. But he didn''t think they would tantly exchange letters in broad daylight. He watched Aries open and read the letter, witnessing a decidedly spooky smirk turn up on her face before she raised her head.

    "Curious what it says?" she asked, leaning over to prop her chin against the back of her hand. "I can show you if you want."

    "He''s not someone you can trust," he warned through his gritted teeth.

    "I didn''t say he is trustworthy." Aries offered the open letter to him, held in between her index and middle finger. "But he''s a good card to y at the perfect time. After all, we also lost the emperor''s card. Using that again will be too risky."

    She wiggled her brows and added, "take it."

    Ismael darted his eyes between Aries and the letter in her hand, and then hesitatingly took it. Once his eyes fell on the content of the letter, his eyes went round, cked jaw.

    "Haha. Pick up your jaw." Aries chuckled, holding the teacup to her curled lips, giving him a knowing look. "There will be more, Your Highness. These things shouldn''t shock you anymore. This is nothing."

    "Ho бк how?" he blurted out under his breath, in disbelief at Aries''s milestones in such a short span of time. "Just what is your true goal?"

    She didn''t reply as she enjoyed the tea before it got cold. When she ced the teacup back on the saucer, Aries cleared her throat and smiled subtly.

    "My true goalбн is none of your concern."

    "Not my concern?" he scoffed. "How can it not be my concern if I know you can destroy this entire empire?"

    "You''re overestimating me, Your Highness. I am not capable of destroying this entire empire; I can wound it, though. Fret not. If destruction is what I want, we wouldn''t be talking right now." Her eyshes fluttered ever so tenderly. "Instead, this ce was long gone."

    "What?"

    "Your Highness, you remind me of a certain someone." Aries changed the subject since there was no point in exining that a certain tyrant could destroy this ce without lifting a finger. "That person is almost the same as you. You fight for what you believed is right and moral. You strongly believed that good will always win against evil."

    For a split second, her eyes softened as she studied his clear countenance. "You also wear your heart on your sleeve. I can read you like an open book; anger, distrust, and disbelief are clearly written across your face. Therefore, Joaquin was confident you will never win against him, even if you persisted this long."

    "You''re too predictable," she added. "Is what I''m saying."<sub> </sub>

    "Hahбн" he scoffed once again, as that was the only thing he could do. But to his surprise, her next words were something he didn''t expect.

    "Don''t change."

    "Huh? Are you making fun of me?" heughed in mockery. "You just said I was predictable and everything I believed and held on to will never win against my enemies. Now, you''re saying I shouldn''t change? Do you now want to control my emotions as well?"

    "No, your Highness. It''s because I also believed until now that the good will still win in the end." She pressed her lips, setting her eyes on the crowd, and caught Joaquin getting down on the tform after the show he performed. "I''m not saying you have to stay foolish as you are. What I meant is don''t change for what you believe is right and moral and humane, even if times and situations will make you question them."

    "It is hypocritical of me to say all this, but between you and me, you are still standing in front of the fine line between good and evil." Aries let out a shallow breath as she paused momentarily. "Crossing that line may give you a little satisfaction, but it''s quite dark on this side."

    Ismael opened his mouth, but his voice was stuck in his throat. All he could do was stare at her, cked jaw. The round table separating them wasn''t that big, but somehow, staring at her made it feel like she was too far to reach.

    Aries was still someone Ismael wouldn''t trust and would constantly fear deep in his heart. However, for reasons he couldn''t define, her words and the look in her eyes revealed a thousand unspoken sentiments about her anger, her regret, and everything all condensed into one.

    "I''m lucky since there were a few people who sit with me in this same darkness." Aries pulled her back from the chair, sitting upright, eyes straight at him. "Consider this as my treat to that person I used to know. You can do better, but despite the good and bad decisions, she has my respect."

    Aries pushed herself up as she needed to return to the pce to celebrate Joaquin''s ''victory'' with him. But when she was by the door of the terrace, she halted.

    "Those wordsбн" he slowly set his eyes on her back, knocking on the table slightly. "Thosest remarks were the words you want to tell to your younger self, aren''t they?"

    "Who knows?" she smiled, looking back at him. "But what I''m certain is that I hope whoever needs to hear those words receives the wisdom to its full potential."

    He exchanged looked with her and sighed when she peeled her eyes away from him. While she was crossing the door, Ismael said louder.

    "Violet found a ranch somewhere and is doing well. She didn''t want to hear any news about Carlos, but she said her heart is always with you."

    Aries smiled, but she didn''t look back, although she slowed down in her steps. She rocked her head and then continued to walk away, leaving Ismael all alone.

    When she was gone, Ismael nced at the door once again before he leaned back. He tossed his head back, reclining on the chair, arms over the armrests.

    "I heard Rikhill was a wonderful ce full of honest and hospitable people before Joaquin led his army to exploit it," he mumbled, blinking ever so tenderly as he recalled the look in Aries''s eyes earlier. "I wonderбн what kind of person are you before?"

 Chapter 243 How She Celebrate His Victory

    "I heard you met with my brother during the speechбн"

    The faint sound of cutlery hitting the tes faded as Aries paused in cutting the steak. She gazed up and her eyes instantlynded on Joaquin sitting on the other end of the long table.

    "Curious?" her smile didn''t reach her eyes. "Or terrified?"

    "Hahбн maybe a little bit of both. Although I will say fear is not the urate term for it." He shrugged. "With what my wife disyed, catching me off guard, I am intrigued. What did you gain from it?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she pondered about it. "Connections." This time, her smile reached her eyes as they squinted. "You may still think of me as a mere ve, returning for vengeance. Suit yourself. I have other options."

    "Circe." Joaquin breathed out, resting his arms against the edge of the table. "I made a mistake."

    "You didn''t, Joaquin. You made a choice."

    "Ughhбн" He took a deep breath, pinching the bridge of his nose, as his wife still seemed angry about that. He couldn''t me her, though. His wife was a proud aristocrat in another empire, who was the best candidate for the empress if the emperor of the Haimirich Empire had a good rtionship with the Vandrans.

    Joaquin had thought long and hard about this matter for days. What Aries showcased бк her scheme behind Carlos'' sentencing to use his death to gain the public support was something "that" Aries wouldn''t do. Although the Aries he knew were smart, strong, and fearless, she was not anything near his cunning wife.

    "That" Ariesбн never posed a threat to him. His wife does.

    With just a few words, the crown princess tweaked the oue for the "better." Moreover, if she was that fallen princess, she would be more careful. But s, the crown princess never tried to conceal her emotions and thoughts from him, nor did she ever show the slightest hint she was trying to divert this suspicion to something else.

    Whether this was a tactic or the crown princess wasn''t truly "that" Aries didn''t matter anymore. At the end of the day, she was still the crown princess and his wife. Having a good rtionship with her would still be beneficial, so long as he was careful.

    "You''re right," he breathed out once again, setting his eyes back to the woman sitting on the other end of the long dining table. "I made a choice, and it''s something I regret."<sub> </sub>

    "Circe, I''m sorry, alright? I had a lot on my te with Carlos''s case and everyone in the royal court wasn''t helping. I know this may sound like an excuse, but I cannot trust anyone in this ce," he continued in a solemn voice, looking at her straight in the eye. "You met the eighth prince in secret and still meet with the opposing party. How the hell would I know you''re not plotting something for my downfall? I''ve been in this position and letting my heart take charge will cost me my life."

    Silence instantly fell after his remarks, staring at each other without speaking a word. After several meetings of nothing but quietness, a shallow breath slipped past her lips.

    "I understand your disposition, Your Royal Highness. However, I''ve said this several times. Your downfall will also be mine. Do you think the third prince will let me off the hook if he seeds?" although her tone sounded calm, her eyes grew distant and unmoved. "The only reason I am the crown princess is that I married the crown prince. I don''t know how many times I should stress this for you to understand I am in the same boat as yours."

    Aries ced down the cutlery and picked up the cloth to wipe her lips. "It is not a secret how I ended up in this marriage I didn''t want. The tyrant in Haimirich didn''t like the idea of dividing his power or letting the aristocratic faction gain more influence than they already had in the royal court."

    "This marriage had nearly be the reason for an uprising in my homnd as my brother had taken this as an offense. However, I deemed it as a mistake on their end and it''s the consequence of theircency," she added, leaving her ''thought'' regarding this well-concocted storyline everyone knew in Haimirich and in this empire.

    "I didn''t marry you out of love, Crown Prince. I was forced. It was the consequence of others I must pay unfairly. But since I had already exchanged vows with you and it is pointless to wallow in the things I have no control over, there''s only one thing I can do."

    Aries nted her hands on the armrest, pushing herself up. Standing, she kept her distant eyes on him, her expression unreadable but imposing.

    "My point here is, I will not let that happen again. I won''t put my fate in the hands of another," she stressed solemnly, giving enlightenment of her actions until this point, which somehow made sense if put this way. "I stepped in just because the indignation and humiliation of being called and seen as a ve are something I can no longer stomach. And since you were convinced I was that woman, I had no choice but to show you what you are losing by clinging on to the ghost of another."

    "I can be the wife you want and gain a petty problem as to have to bathe before joining me on my bed, or the crown princess who you will have to watch out for," she continued as her eyshes fluttered elegantly. "Your Royal Highness, the only advantage you have in here is that you''re legally my husband. Although our nights together were funбн I can still have fun with someone else. If one isn''t enough to satisfy me, then inviting two or more is not a problem."

    Aries knocked on the table lightly and smiled. "I have a lot of options in that area, is what I mean. I hope you have a good night, my husband dear." And with that, Aries smirked at him before leaving his bruised ego in the dining hall.

    What a way to celebrate his victory.

 Chapter 244 [Bonus Chapter]Seeing The Effects

    Aries was well-aware that what she had said back in the dining hall was enough to anger Joaquin. He might snap her neck. But she was certain he wouldn''t be so careless to do that.

    Joaquin needed to tread on eggshells to win her over because that was already the n.

    To make him forget about Aries, she needed him to reach a point he was hundred percent certain she was Aries and then strike. Causing confusion and showing the difference between Aries and the crown princess would be more effective since the Aries Joaquin knew weren''t as cunning and merciless as the crown princess.

    She was never the person to exploit someone else''s misfortune and death to her advantage. Aries was never that rotten. She could be fearless and terrifying, but her ways were always direct and head-on, not knowing her skull would crash into the spikes her enemy prepared.

    The reason Ismael reminded her of her younger self.

    Ismael was someone who also had a direct way of approaching things, chasing after an illusion, only to find himself standing on the edge of the cliff. If Aries wasn''t in this ce as the crown princess and she didn''t see thising, Ismael would''ve been put on the guillotine.

    To defeat the beast, one should be the beast that was just as ferocious or more brutal as the others. Or else they would all fall into prey for them to get devoured.

    This realization dawned on the third prince a littlete, but she was d this had happened now. The timing was perfect.

    Nowбн Ismael was still alive and Joaquin''s suspicion about her origin would prove unnecessary. In any case, Joaquin would be wary for nowбн until there was no reason for him to connect her with "that woman" he called his favorite.

    Aries smiled the more she thought about the conclusion of her dinner with Joaquin.

    "How''s Curtis?" she asked, standing on the stand to light up the candle herself, while Gertrude stood behind her.

    "He had been doing well, Your Highness. Everyone treats him properly, afraid you will be upset if he wasn''t taken care of." Gertrude held her hand in front of her, keeping a safe distance from Aries. "He is also regaining strength in his knees and can stand up on his own, albeit for a short time."

    "That''s good. As long as his condition is getting better." Aries rocked her head, getting a whiff of thevender scent that wafted her nostrils. "And you? Have you been well?"

    "Minerva helps me a lot in most things, but the servants'' treatment towards makes me a littleбн ufortable."

    "And why is that?" she sauntered towards the other stand to light up another candle.

    "Their kindness feels unnatural."

    "Well, you have to get used to it." Aries bent over slightly as she lit up a match, guiding it to the scented candle. "They believed to get in my good graces, they should curry favor with those I favored. That''s how it''s always been, Gertrude. It''s just a matter of how you will benefit from them more than what they will get from sucking up with you."<sub> </sub>

    Gertrude remained silent, pursing her lips, following Aries''s figure with her gaze. She had been a servant almost her entire life, but in this ce, everything was different. She wasn''t as cunning as Aries as to exploit the benefits to their maximum potential.

    "Don''t pressure yourself. In any case, you can think of it as gaining more eyes and ears." Aries straightened her back before she faced Gertrude, standing near the nightstand where she lit thest candle. "They wille in handy."

    "Yes, Your Highness. I will report anything I will hear." When Aries nodded with a subtle smile, Gertrude didn''t idle longer as thevender scent started to fill the room once again. "I will leave now so you can rest, Your Highness."

    "Sure."

    Aries watched her march towards the door in silence. But before Gertrude reached the door, she halted as she spoke.

    "You forgot to light up the candles." Gertrude looked back, a little confused for a second before she lowered her head. "My apologies. I''ll light them up quickly."

    Aries watched Gertrude hurriedly approach the stands. Gertrude would light up a match to light up the already lit up candle and, just like Aries''s pattern, she went from one to another until she stood near Aries as she lit up the candle near the nightstand.

    As soon as she finished, Gertrude offered a meek smile and then bowed. "I''ll be on my way, Your Highness. Have a peaceful night." And then she walked towards the door. She looked back and bowed once again when she was by the door before shutting it close, leaving Aries to rest.

    "Hehбн" Aries chuckled slightly, crossing her arms, eyes still on the shut doors. "So, the effects of the candles had reached that stage, huh?"

    The side of her lips curled up, recalling how Gertrude didn''t notice that the candles were already lit, despite watching Aries light them up herself. Also, she had been watching Gertrude every single night whenever she lit up the candles, and only tonight did Gertrude break her pattern.

    "Right on time." She nodded, pleased that the effect of the scented candles had started to have an influence on people. "Finally, the hypnosis is already triggered."

    Her lips stretched, arching a brow as she nced at the shawl draped over the armchair. Aries smacked her lips, sauntering to pick up the shawl and wrapping it around her body. She then marched towards the drawer of her desk, picking up a seal she received from Violet before heading to the terrace.

    Aries took a deep breath as the chill night breeze met her face, causing her hair to flow back like strings of gold shining under the moonlight. Standing in front of the railing, her eyes glinted and her smirk faded when she heard the faint creak from the door behind her.

    Soon, she felt a person''s heat standing behind her, caressing her arms as he lowered his head to her ear.

    "I bathed," Joaquin remarked, holding her arms from behind. "Can you forgive me just this once, Circe?"

 Chapter 245 The Conclusion Of The First Act

    "Can you forgive me just this once, Circe?"

    Joaquin''s voice was low, resting his forehead on her shoulder, standing still behind her. When Aries left the dining hall, he wouldn''t deny his anger at the remarks she spewed. However, there was some truth in it. His wife was beautiful and smart and she was capable of fooling with another man just to spite him.

    "We hadn''t spent time together because of the circumstance and the tension between us is disheartening," he exined, raising his head slowly. He then held her shoulder, spinning her carefully until they were facing each other.

    "I know it''s not your fault that there is now a distance between us." Under his breath, he admitted he had hurt her. "I deserved this anger from you. Your husband had been chasing after an apparition and failed to see you."

    His brows rose, smiling bitterly. He squeezed her hand mildly, huffing as to release the heaviness in his chest.

    "I''m sorry. I regret it, Circe." Without letting go of her other hand, Joaquin cupped her cheek. "I was wrong."

    There was a thick silence between them as they stared at each other. When he slowly bent over, tilting his head to the side, Aries looked away to avoid his lips.

    "Just how many times would you ask for forgiveness and chances, Joaquin?" her voice was soft, yet distant. "Do you take me for a fool who gives out chances generously?"

    "Circe."

    "I''m not a fool, Joaquin." Aries looked back at him, but unlike the icy look in her eyes previously, they only showed the desire to be seen. "I gave you countless chances, which I rarely do just because I tried to choose my heart over my mind. But obviously, you took that for granted."

    "I knowбн and I deeply regret it. There''s justбн never mind. Just how can I quench your anger, my wife?" he let out another deep sigh, waiting for her response patiently.

    "I don''t know." She shook her head, brushing his hands away from her cheek as she took a step back. "I don''t know, Joaquin. If I forgive you now, you''ll do it again if I did something that reminded you of that person. I''d rather stay like this since I''m used to the life of being alone."

    "I can always adjust. I don''t need someone to apany me," she added as she turned her back on him. "Living alone had always been the story of my life and I''m used to it. I don''t need someone who only gives me crippling affliction."

    Joaquin let out another deep sigh, but he didn''t frown. Instead, impatience flickered across his eyes. He stretched his neck to the side, telling himself he needed to be patient to win her over again. He was aware winning her over would be difficult this time from everything that had happened, but he had to focus on his goal.

    Ismael was still alive and walking freely in the pce. For as long as that person was alive, people who were vying for power would use the third prince for their own interests.

    "I won''t disappoint you this time," he affirmed, staring at her back with determination in his eyes. "I promise. I''ve thought long and hard about this, and I can now understand your fondness for that dog."

    "He''s not a dog бк he''s a person."<sub> </sub>

    "Rightбн" he suppressed himself from rolling his eyes. "I won''t touch him or your personal maid ever again. No matter how upset I was, I shouldn''t haveshed out at the very few people who were always there for you when I''m not around."

    This time, Joaquin walked over and stood beside her. He waited for her to return his gaze before he spoke.

    "I see you, Circe." He raised his hand and cupped her jaw, staring deep into her eyes. "I can now see you."

    Aries pursed her lips into a tight, thin sh. For him, she was still a woman who needed the affection of her husband. Although she could be fierce and devise a meticulous n, her actions and words in the past showed another side of her.

    Behind this fearless woman hid a beautifuldy who could appreciate small things.

    "I say this once and for all." She let out a deep sigh as her seemingly unbreakable wall slightly lowered. "This is thest time. There will be nost, Joaquin. This is really my limit and I won''t be kind the next time."

    "Yes." He smiled in relief and then snapped his eyes when she nced down. His brows furrowed as she opened her fist ever so slowly.

    "This is the reason I met the eighth prince," she exined, studying how his eyes dte upon recognizing the seal in her possession. Joaquin abruptly raised his eyes in surprise, only to see her frowning as her eyes moved to the side.

    "How did you бк"

    "A trade," she remarked. "I told the eighth prince I''ll make sure he''ll receive a lighter sentence if he gives me something that had an equal value to his life. I knew you wouldn''t mark them if you don''t need anything from them and since they won''t give them to you willingly, you''d rather have them killed."

    "Circe, youбн"

    "The eighth prince said this seal is the official seal of the rebel group led by a nameless and faceless man. How she got it was more like a repayment to her kind nature and help." She clicked her tongue, handing the seal over to him. "Princess Violet loved and trusted the eighth prince so much so she handed this seal to him. Although he said he hadn''t used this yet since Princess Violet didn''t know how to contact anyone who was directly affiliated with that group."

    Aries paused and then handed the seal to him. "Do you think my real goal is as simple as you gaining public support?" sheughed weakly before handing over the seal to him.

    "Back in Haimirich, I pledged I will make my husband the greatest emperor of all the emperors to spite the tyrant who put me in this ce." She raised her head, keeping her unreadable expression in check. "I don''t settle for less, Joaquin, and I''m giving this to you not because I want to, but because I don''t need it. There were many things I don''t need in this ce that I can easily obtain that you might need."

    "I am ambitious, but my ambition is nothing like yours," she continued. "So, I''m not yourpetitorбн don''t force me to be one. I haven''t forgiven you and if you truly want me, you''ll have to prove yourself worthy... because this is enough for me to prove myself I am more than just a hostage in this ce."

 Chapter 246 The Conclusion Of The First Act II

    Joaquin spent the night with her, but they both slept on either side of the bed. He didn''t push his luck anymore, ''respecting'' her personal space when he figured it was pointless. Aries wouldn''t be coaxed with words this time.

    So when morning came, he made time to eat breakfast with her. Although his wife was still distant, with the seal she gifted him, his determination to win her over significantly increased. It had been a week since then.

    "I heard you had been doing well." Aries sat down beside Curtis with anticipation in her eyes. She had been busy with Joaquin that she only visited him now. Curtis kept his eyes on the floor, hands on hisp, like a good child.

    "I''m really d to see you doing well, Curtis." She raised her hand and ruffled his head, something that always guaranteed her a look from him. So she smiled and nodded encouragingly.

    "It feels rewarding in a way."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she leaned back, keeping her eyes on him. This past week wasn''t easy, with Joaquin wanting most of her time and then Abel! Every time Aries thought of her lover, she couldn''t stop her head from throbbing.

    Although Abel had been busy with whatever it was, every time they meet, it was always Abel dragging her to the corner out of nowhere. She had met too many mini heart attacks, and she was starting to be wary in the hallways, afraid a hand would suddenly drag her to a room for kisses or just a quickie.

    So, visiting Curtis and knowing he was making progress felt like dealing with two troublesome men at the same time was worth it. Joaquin kept his word and didn''t bother Curtis and even favored Gertrude. Meanwhile, Abel was behaving as promisedбн

    ''But that''s more concerning,'' she thought, rubbing her chin mildly. Abel was like a child. When he was oddly silent and well-behaved, that means he was doing something truly dreadful.

    ''I should keep an eye on him since things will go on their way naturally.'' Aries mentally nodded, convinced that she shouldn''t let Abel sneak around this ce on his own. ''I feel like whatever that is keeping him busy right now will shock me once the timees. Knowing him, the routes he could make for himself were endless.''

    "Right!" Aries pped and smiled, tossing her thoughts to the back of her head as she recalled the reason for her visit. "The hunting season ising soon! Do you want to join me, Curtis?"

    Curtis just looked at her and blinked innocently, making her chuckle and sigh. Although his strength was recovering, it would take some time to heal his trauma. Hopefully, they could even heal it so he could speak once again.

    "Curtis." She sprawled on her arm and held his hand. "You can hear me, right?"

    Her eyes softened because until now she was not sure if Curtis could understand her. Never once did he respond to her, although he would constantly stare at her in silence.

    "Can you squeeze my hand if you understand me? Or if you can recognize me?" she asked, raising her brows in hopes he would, but to no avail. Curtis just stared at her.

    Still, she forced a smile and sighed.

    "It''s alright. Maybe I''m impatient. The hunting season ising up and I''m just wondering if you want toe. Although I know you don''t really like such asions, I thought it was a pleasant opportunity since I''m taking part and I want to give you my hunts." Aries squeezed his hand lightly, staring at it with soft eyes.<sub> </sub>

    <o>,m Bitterness filled her eyes at the sight of his missing pinky and all the raised scars that might''ve healed but was already permanently on his skin. As Aries''s mood slowly went south, Curtis'' lips quivered as they parted.</o>

    "A бк" Aries raised her head upon hearing a faint sound from him. "A бк"

    She held her breath, nodding encouragingly while motioning her hand as if that would help him get that word out of his mouth.

    "A бк ri бк" Her eyes softened as her face rxed, smiling as her heart melted, watching him try once again. "A бк riesбн!"

    Curtis was panting for air as sweats broke out of his forehead just by trying to call her name, but that was enough for her to tear up. Aries bit her lower lip as heat formed in her eyes.

    "Yes?" she answered under her breath, wiping the corner of her eyes before a tear could escape them. "Yes, Curtis. Aries is here."

    She tucked a few strands of his hair behind his ear, smiling gently at him. Curtis didn''t speak anymore even when he caught up to his breathing, but they stared at each other. Her smile persisted. This was enough for her and it gave her hope that one day, Curtis would be able to speak once again.

    "I won''tin about your virulent tongue anymore, Curtis. Soбн just get better, alright?" she hummed, squeezing his hand once again. "I''ll be patient. I got you."

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Meanwhile, in the crown prince''s chanceryбн

    Joaquin was sitting behind the desk with his feet over it, reclining on the chair. His elbow propped against the armrest while his other hand held the seal up. He had been looking at it and there was no doubt this was the seal he kept looking for.

    "I wonderбн if Ismael had contact with the guerris? Did he get help from them?" he narrowed his eyes.

    To him, since he caught them off guard, they couldn''t use this card they kept hidden. He could understand if Carlos didn''t surrender this to Ismael, because at the end of the day, everyone needed to have something they could leverage for their life.

    He was deep in thought as to which was the best course of action he must take to use this to its full potential. Although Joaquin already knew the main goal, he should approach things meticulously, so what happened thest time with Ismael wouldn''t happen again. Thus, he didn''t notice the knock on the door and Roman''s intrusion into his office.

    "You summoned бк" Roman abruptly stopped as his eyes fell on the seal Joaquin was holding up while staring at it. His brows furrowed before his eyes slowly dted, recognizing it even from this distance.

    ''That sealбн'' he held his breath as Ismael''s words he never thought of until now came back to him in a sh. ''Violet.''

 Chapter 247 [Bonus Chapter]The Conclusion Of The First Act III

    It took minutes before Joaquin finally noticed Roman''s presence. The moment he turned his head and caught the shock stered on the seventh prince''s face, Joaquin tossed the seal to him. Roman caught it on instinct even though his brain was trying to process how Joaquin got a hold of this seal.

    "What do you think, Roman?" he asked, retrieving his feet on the desk to sit properly. "What should we do with this?"

    Roman gazed at the seal in his hand. "Your Highness, how did youбн?" he looked up with furrowed brows.

    "Does it matter?" Joaquinughed as he leaned back. "How I got it or from whom I got it does not matter, Rome."

    Roman remained silent as he watched Joaquin hum. Thetter was tapping his fingers against the armrest, lips pressed, pondering about something.

    "I''ve been thinking of what I should do with it. The guerris in the Valiente region had been actively opposing the monarchy, but all those we captured would rather bite off their tongues ormit suicide than let us get anything from them," the crown prince remarked, thinking of how troublesome the guerris had been even during their father''s time. "Although they''d been silent recently, it''s more rming since we don''t know what they were up to."

    "I was thinking Ismael could have some sort of connection with them with everything that had happened," he added while rubbing his chin. "Although I''m uncertain about that, it''s still better to strike and put an end to them once and for all."

    A smug smirk slowly resurfaced on the crown prince''s face. "I need to clean the empire before I take charge, after all."

    There was a thick silence that befell the crown prince''s chancery as Roman kept his mouth shut. All he did was gaze at the crown prince, studying that confidence and the natural wickedness behind his pair of ash eyes.

    "Your Highness, what are you nning to do with this seal?" he asked after minutes of silence.

    Joaquin''s lips stretched even broader with eyes glinting dangerously. That second, Roman was certain whatever woulde out of the crown prince''s mouth was somethingбн dreadful.

    "The hunting season ising," he humored. "Do you understand, Rome?"

    Roman breathed out faintly as he hung his head low. "Yesбн your royal highness."

    "Good. Now make preparation. I am still busy coaxing my wife." Joaquin waved, but before Roman could leave, a knock came from the door. When the two turned their heads in its direction, Hernan had already gotten inside with a letter in his hand.

    Hernan simply bowed out of respect to the two of them before marching towards Joaquin. He bent over and whispered in Joaquin''s ears, causing Roman to furrow his brows. Why would Hernan need to whisper things in the crown prince''s ears if there were only the three of them?

    Joaquin''s smile stretched even wider as he nodded, epting the letter Hernan handed him. He kept silent as he skimmed the letter, in high spirits as things were going out his way smoothly.

    "How amusing. The Gods surely favor me." He chuckled as he folded the paper and gaze at Hernan. "We''ll invite him over. Arrange a lunch with him."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    "For three." Hernan''s brows knitted when Joaquin added. "I will invite Circe. She will be delighted."

    Hernan gazed at Joaquin with conflict in his eyes, in disbelief at the crown prince''s suggestion. But he bit his tongue and kept his disagreement with him since he was aware this may be a tactic for the crown prince to win the crown princess over.<sub> </sub>

    With that being said, both Hernan and Roman bid their farewell and left the crown prince together. Standing outside the chancery, Roman kept his distant countenance.

    "Are we keeping secrets now?" he asked without casting Hernan a look. Thetter''s brows rose as he nced at the former.

    "Your Highness, what are you insinuating?"

    Roman didn''t answer immediately as he slowly set his eyes back on Hernan, Joaquin''s trusted aide. His eyes studied thetter''s eyes before his lips parted.

    "Never mind." He peeled his eyes away from him and walked away, leaving Hernan a little confused.

    For Roman, it seemed they weren''t keeping secrets now. Or... was he the only one who thought there weren''t secret orders, to begin with?

    As he waltzed through the hallway, Roman''s eyes glinted. Ismael''s words, during his questioning, hovered over his head repeatedly, causing his hands to ball into a fist at the thought of Violet. There weren''t a lot of things Roman couldn''t ept. Actually, there was only one: Violet''s death.

    Did Joaquin really set the fire in the eighth prince''s quarter? Was he the man behind it? And Roman didn''t know about it? Just like how he didn''t know what that letter about that Hernan whispered in Joaquin''s ears? Not just that, but no one knew about the n regarding the eighth prince''s death.

    Roman didn''t hear about it until he received a word regarding Carlos''s attempt to flee, which led to his death. Although he was also confused about why Carlos got banishment instead of death, he didn''t get to question the crown prince because thetter didn''t receive an audience from anyone after the trial. Neither did Joaquin ever speak about it.

    There were myriads of questions in the seventh prince''s head, and there was no definite answer to any of them.

    When the seed of doubt was nted, it would naturally grow. But if one nurtured it with the proper nutrient, its root would naturally crawl deep until there was nothing but doubt in one''s heart.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    <strong>Back in the crown prince''s chanceryбн</strong>

    Joaquin was staring at the door where Hernan and Roman left. He narrowed his eyes, thinking of Roman''s strange expression when they left. Until now, the crown prince had trusted his people because they already proved their loyalty to him through the years.

    But his wife was correct. He shouldn''t put all his eggs in one basket. He and Aries weren''t still on good terms, but she would impart her wisdom to him every once in a while.

    "Romeбн" he whispered, leaning back and thinking of the crown princess'' advice.

    <strong>''Just like the third prince, do you think there wasn''t a mole on your side? If there weren''tбн it''s a little baffling how Ismael got out of the entire fiasco unscathed.''</strong> бк were Aries''s exact words and even when he didn''t think about it that much at first, it still bothered him deep down.

    "A mole, huh?" he chuckled in ridicule, smirking deviously. "Whoever it isбн I''ll make sure to disintegrate him."

 Chapter 248 [Bonus Chapter]The Conclusion Of The First Act IV

    <strong>Daysterбн</strong>

    Everything slowly returned to normal as everyone was preparing for the hunting season in the empire. It was one of the most important seasons in the empire and since it was the first hunting season for the crown princess, everyone was handling it delicately, as per the crown prince''s orders.

    Aries''s life had also been mostly recurring events of indulging with Joaquin as he tried to win her over. She would then teach Curtis to read again. However, he hadn''t spoken a word ever since that time and then fulfilled her duties as the crown princess.

    Her search for Abel wasn''t fruitful as well, because the man seemed to have vanished from the inner pce. It was the same with Conan and Dexter. Aries never got to see even their shadow, leaving her with a question:<strong> did they leave?</strong>

    For her, that was impossible, knowing Abel. Her anxiety about this odd behavior from those men increased by the day. So, just like the past several days, Aries would walk around the inner pce to search for them under the facade of ''taking a casual walk.''

    ''Just where are they hiding?'' she wondered as she walked through the west wing of the inner pce. ''Are we ying cat and mouse now? Abel wouldn''t be this silent if he wasn''t nning something evil.''

    Aries bit her lip, keeping her poise. Her footsteps were light and echoing against the silent pce walls. She had also noticed that there weren''t knights around and the number of servants the more she ventured into this part of the pce decreased significantly.

    ''Sir Conan also didn''t show himself after that nightбн although he told me he will always be there whilst enjoying his vacation time бк''

    Her thoughts suddenly halted when the door she was passing by opened. She hadn''t even grasped the situation when a hand grabbed her arm and pulled her inside the door.

    <strong>SLAM!</strong>

    Out of instinct, the second her back was pressed against the door, she raised a finger and ced it on the person''s lips. Her eyes gleamed with seduction, only for them to dte the moment she realized she made a mistake.

    Ismael looked at her with furrowed brows to what seemed to be a sensual reaction from her before she retrieved her finger from his lips as if she was scalded.

    "What the hell was that?" he blurted out, receiving a re from her.

    "Don''t do that!" she seethed, clicking her tongue as she pushed his chest away. "Don''t drag me just anywhere. Goodness!"

    Aries looked around the lodging room while brushing her arm with the back of her hand. She walked in the middle, ignoring Ismael''s gaze on her back.

    "What, Ismael?" she asked, looking back at him when he said nothing for a full minute.

    "It''s you, isn''t it?" he queried back, causing her brow to arch. "That seal from the resistance group in Valiente. It''s you who handed that seal to Joaquin, isn''t it?"

    "And if I am?"<sub> </sub>

    "You!" Ismael ground his teeth as he clutched his hand into a tight fist. "What are you thinking about giving that power to him? I don''t care how you got it in the first ce, but why?! What will you gain by giving him that seal?"

    Silence fell on them before the corner of her lips curled up into a smirk. Aries sauntered towards the nearby armchair, motioning her hand towards the seat across from her.

    "Why don''t you calm down and take a seat, my dear brother-inw?" she tipped her head in the chair across from her and then added when she noticed his dismay at her invitation. "I don''t talk to someone who is standing while I am sitting downбн I hate the thought of being looked down on."

    "Hahбн" he scoffed in irritation, but he still reluctantly sat down across from her. His eyes glinted once again when he locked his gaze with her.

    "Are you out of your mind?" he asked to break the ice. "Are you really against your husband? Or were you sick enough to sort of like him despite the hell he put you through?"

    Aries onlyughed as she shook her head. As far as she knew, no one knew about that seal aside from Violet. Princess Violet was smart and kind, but her kindness also had its ''downside.'' It was just as Aries said. If Violet was a little bit ambitious, she could have Carlos by the neck.

    She couldn''t me the princess, though. Violet wasn''t strong enough to let others know she held such a good card, or she would be Joaquin''s target.

    In other words, Violet kept this possession a secret even from her husband. So Ismael also didn''t know about it and she could only guess that Joaquin also knew little information regarding the matter. His reaction when Aries handed the seal to him was enough for her to confirm that.

    "Your Highness, you need to keep calm at all times," she advised with a subtle smile. "I told you, your Highness. Everything is about trade. The seal was, indeed, important since Joaquin would use it to its full potential."

    Aries leaned back as she pondered for a moment. "If I guessed correctly, he would probably use the seal to create yet another drama and paint the guerris as the evil forces. The empire had been lenient to this group since the people backed them and they were troublesome barbarians who had no regard for their life." She stated the obvious since there were many reasons the guerris persisted this long.

    "Joaquin just needs more solid reasons to justify his actions, your Highness. And I simply gave him that reason," she added as a matter of fact. "Having a hold of the seal will do us nothing since we don''t need to hold on to it."

    "Then what did you trade that seal for?" he asked under his breath, studying her confident smirk.

    "A person worth more than the seal."

    "What?" his brows furrowed.

    Ariesughed in amusement. "Your Highness, if you''ve done your role well, you''ll soon figure out our gain in this trade."

    "How would I know if that is our gain?" when Ismael raised his head, Aries was already standing. She then walked over to the side until she stood near his chair, nting her hand on his shoulder.

    "You can appraise it." Aries squeezed his shoulder lightly and smirked. "Keep doing what you''re doing. It''lle to fruition soon. I''ll see you on the hunting grounds."

 Chapter 249 Preparations For The Hunting Season

    Honestly, Aries didn''t also know about the seal. She simply helped Violet because she owed the princess and she was innocent. But when Violet sent that seal to her, Aries had a hypothesis about how Violet got that important valuable in her possession.

    Violet was just a simple princess from a small valley kingdom colonized by the Maganti Empire. Her ambition in life was a fortunate marriage, to have obedient children, and to help those in need with everything she could. To sum up her life, the only reason Violet got to marry the eighth prince was because of her surname.

    In other words, there was no way Violet would possess such an important piece all on her own. Someoneбн who trusted Violet or just wanted to protect her, gave that to her to gain immunity if the guerris finally made their move and overthrew the throne. Or, as simple as using it as a valuable piece for leverage.

    Aries found it interesting and if her guess was correct, she would soon figure out who the person who gave the seal to Violet was. Although she already had someone in mind бк someone who could connect the dots between the seal and Violet''s death бк Aries needed confirmation.

    Aries smiled as her mind was drifting to this matter that had nothing to do with her current activity.

    "Your Highness," called Cherry, herdy-in-waiting, as Aries hadn''t said a word at the custom dresses she designed herself and sewed by the best seamstress in the empire.

    "Rightбн" Aries fluttered her eyshes as her eyes gloss over the three beautiful pieces the servants were holding up. "Try them, Lady Lloyd."

    "Your Highness?"

    Aries smiled, gazing at Cherry, who was standing near the divan she was sitting on. "Try them so I will know which one is the best," she exined, watching Cherry sport a reluctant expression.

    "You don''t want to?" she asked and herdy-in-waiting shook her head.

    "Your Highness, how dare I, a meredy-in-waiting, wear something that is meant for the crown princess?"

    "Oh, Cherry. These dresses aren''t mine." Cherry''s eyes went wide slightly, tilting her head to the side at Aries''s reply. "I did design them, but I didn''t say I will wear them."

    Not only Cherry but also the proud seamstress who got to work with Aries in creating these delicate dresses looked at the crown princess in surprise. These dresses were worth a fortune, and if they would auction them under the crown princess''s name, it would fill her treasury sincedies would fight just to have a piece.

    The designs were unique andplicated. Something that wouldn''t be seen in the daily banquets. Anyone would stand out if they wore one of them. But Aries was telling them she didn''t n to wear them?

    Aries chuckled seeing their uniformed surprise. "These dresses are too pretty and I hate it when my dress is prettier than my face. I want people to look me in the eye instead of gawking at my body." She humored with a shrug beforepassing her hand to the servants on sight.

    "Help Countess Lloyd change. I would like to see which one suits her best in the uing royal banquet."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    The servants bowed politely before they approached Cherry. Thetter looked at them in surprise before setting her dted eyes at Aries. Aries smiled and nodded encouragingly before the servants escorted Cherry to the other room.

    Minutes after Cherry was escorted to the other room, Aries gazed up at the door when a faint knock came from the other side before it opened slowly. She arched a brow, seeing Joaquin strut his way in.

    "Well, what a surprise, Your Royal Highness." Aries greeted her husband without moving from her reclining position. "I didn''t expect you''d visit me today."<sub> </sub>

    "You told me about the dresses you designed yourself," he exined as he plopped down beside her. Joaquin looked around and furrowed his brows, as there were only a few servants standing on the side.

    "They hadn''t arrived yet?" he frowned, casting her a somber look. "How dare they make my wife wait?"

    "They arrived." She chuckled and shook her head mildly. "Countess Lloyd will test them."

    His frown grew worse as he furrowed his brows. "Yourdy-in-waiting? I was looking forward to seeing you wear them since you''ve been gloating about it."

    "Husband, do you really think there is an attire that is as pretty as my face?" she asked with confidence shooting up the roof. "I am offended."

    "Haha! Oh, goodnessбн surely, having such a pretty face also has its downsides." He smirked, moving closer to her. "But why would you let Countess Lloyd wear the dresses you designed yourself?"

    "I like her and she had helped me quite efficiently. Therefore, I want to reward her." Aries smiled as she sat upright, adjusting her position to face him squarely. "This is my first public appearance, and although I am confident, I don''t want my people to be left behind."

    Joaquin gazed at her beautiful face and noticed the confidence in the curl of her lips. He couldn''t argue with her.

    How could he?

    His wife was the most beautiful face his eyes had everid upon on. Although she shared the same face as that person in his memory, her elegance, grace, and confidence were something that created a difference between the two.

    His wife was more alluring and even if she wasn''t trying, men would die for this beauty. Her intelligence just made it better.

    "I am a lucky man, aren''t I?" he muttered, raising his hand to tuck her golden strand behind her ear. Aries pursed her lips, staring deep into his eyes as the tension between them slowly rose.

    "Yes, you are," she whispered, batting her eyshes ever so slowly.

    Silence descended upon them and she held her breath when Joaquin leaned in, tilting his head to the side. But right before his lips could touch her, Aries looked away as the door from where Cherry changed dress flung open.

    Aries cleared her throat as tried to keep her poker face despite the faint blush on her cheek. Seeing this, Joaquin chuckled, as she could be adorable whenever she was shy or trying to hide her flustered face.

    "Let''s continueter," he teased in her ear, chuckling louder when she red at him.

    "Behave," she warned through her gritted teeth before she faced Cherry and the servants and seamstresses who returned with her. As soon as she did, Aries caught the surprise on their faces upon seeing the presence of the crown prince. But aside from surprise, there was something Aries caught in Cherry''s eyes: jealousy.

    ''Oh, girlбн you have a terrible taste in menбн my Abel is ten times бк never mind. I think I have the worst taste in men.''

 Chapter 250 An Invitation For Lunch

    "What do you think?"

    Aries arched a brow as she gazed at Joaquin beside her. This was the second piece Cherry wore, but Joaquin kept his eyes on Aries.

    "Beautiful," he remarked, casting her a knowing look. He twirled a finger around a small portion of her golden hair and then added, "Very much."

    "I know I am beautiful, but I was asking about the dress." She rolled her eyes, adjusting her upper body until she was facing him. "What do you think about it?"

    Joaquin smacked his lips and nced at Cherry for a split second. "Not bad."

    "Not bad?"

    "Mhm. Not bad."

    Aries let out a faint sigh andpassed her hand to the servants. "I want to see thest one."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    As the servants bowed, they approached Cherry once again while thetter kept her head low. She snuck a nce at the two before following the servants to try thest piece.

    "Seriously. Didn''t you say you were looking forward to seeing the dresses I designed?" Aries grumbled while the rest were walking away, raising her voice a little so everyone could hear herints.

    "I did, but I was looking forward to seeing you wear them," he intoned, ignoring whoever was listening to their conversation.

    "Goodnessбн" Aries rolled her head as she crossed her arms, leaning back with a frown.

    "Haha. My crown princess, are you trying to trap me?" he asked, making her nce at him with a dull expression. "How can you ask me about the dress worn by another woman? If I am a little bit foolish, you would''ve gouged my eyes out just by setting my eyes on Countess Lloyd."

    "You think I was that unreasonable?"

    "Not reallyбн but I don''t want to be rude to you by looking at another woman in your presence."

    "I hope that applies even during my absence."

    "Of course." He chuckled, studying her sharp side profile. "Was there another woman better than my wife?"

    Aries raised her brows when he held her hand, raising her eyes as he lifted her hand to his lips. She pressed her lips into a thin line, staring back at him while he kissed her knuckles.

    "I won''t fall for that." She looked away, but Joaquin pinched her chin and guided her to look back at him once again.

    "Are you still angry with me?" he asked, referring to their ''misunderstandings'' weeks ago.<sub> </sub>

    They hadn''t reconciled like how their rtionship was before, but they had spent so much time together that despite theck of sexual intercourse, Joaquin was quiteбн satisfied just to keep herpany. It was fun just talking to her.

    "Yes," she replied almost instantly, but heughed as her expression told him otherwise.

    "Really?"

    "Yes, really." Aries narrowed her eyes as she drew her head back, covering his lips with her palm as he leaned in. "I''m still furious. Do you think I''m that easy? It''ll take a decade to quench my anger."

    Joaquin held her wrist to the side. "A decade is quite a long time, my wife."

    "Is it?" she bats her eyes almost innocently. "I don''t see any problem with that, though. I have a decade to y with you."

    Aries bit her lower lip to suppress her mischievous grin but failed miserably. The side of her lips hooked up, and Joaquinughed at her silly argument. Yet, he didn''t find it strange since he knew his wife could be a little silly to people who were dear to her.

    "Well, a decade is worth it if you put it that way." He shrugged, leaning back with his arms draped over the back of the divan, eyes on her. His lips hooked up as Aries let out a deep exhale, tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear.

    "What do you want from me?" she asked after a moment, recollecting her thoughts to keep her poise. "I doubt you see me to simply see the dresses."

    "I did have another reason for this visit." He burst out inughter when her expression died, looking back at him in dismay.

    "And here I thought you''ve really given thought to the dresses I''ve been gloating for days."

    "My wife, I wouldn''t know about the dresses if I wasn''t paying attention." His arm over the backrest of the settee reached for her hair until his fingertips were ying with her golden strings. "I would still see you for the same reason if it''s on another day, but it just so happened I want to invite you to have lunch with me and my guest."

    "A guest?" she tilted her head to the side.

    "Yes, a guest бк an important one." He rocked his head. "He is a person from the bottom and excelled inmerce. I heard about your project in the east ninth district and I thought this person might be of help."

    Aries furrowed her brows as she pondered about his remarks. She didn''t need help from Joaquin about the east ninth district Aries was managing as she has nned on refilling the food storage in that said district.

    "He will be an excellent help in trades as well since it''ll be good for your name if you say that this person supports the crown princess," he continued nonchntly. "You might not need too much help for the east ninth district, but if you need funding and more connections, this person might help you. It''s hard to invite him since he had never shown his face, but this is a good opportunity."

    Joaquin smiled, pleased by the surprise that was stered across her face. He wouldn''t even think about this since the person he was talking about had built vast connections to people in various fields, and letting her have ess to such a person was risky. But he trusted his wife even just a tiny bit and wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt.

    "Although aristocrats still had prejudiced on those people inmerce and the families with newfound wealth, making acquaintance to various people could be helpful." His smile persisted and his eyes softened when Aries smiled affectionately at him for the first time in a long time.

    "I won''t disappoint." Her eyes gleamed with relief and sincerity, holding his hand gently. She kept her eyes on him even when Cherry and the rest returned.

    Little did Aries know, she was about to meet the shock of her life.

 Chapter 251 [Bonus Chapter]Baron Albe

    There were many things Aries had in mind before meeting this distinguished guest Joaquin invited for lunch. ording to Joaquin, this person traded everything. He didn''t tell her anything about the ck market, but there was a high possibility such a person could get her the things she needed if the price was right.

    But that wasn''t what made her exhrated. It was the fact this was an action Joaquin thought of himself. It only meant one thing; everything she had done from start until now and the seed of trust she nted in Joaquin''s heart was ready to blossom.

    All that excitement, however, was short-lived when Aries and Joaquin arrived in the dining hall.

    <strong>''Oh, my lord...''</strong>

    Aries gazed at the person sitting across from them, cked jaw. The man was like a walking treasury as he was glittering with gold. His fingers wore different designed golden rings except for his ring finger; a gold chain ne around his tattooed neck and his ear studded with diamonds. His bright smile that reached his eyes until they were squinting into mere slits was brighter than all his blings.

    What a way to show off his wealth.

    But that wasn''t the reason she couldn''t stop herself from staring at him. She knew that face very much, but that green hairбн

    ''What is Abel doing here?'' she wondered, but her mind was too nk to create different scenarios and conclusions. All she could think about was that smug grin stered on his face.

    "Circe?" she snapped her eyes and automatically smiled as she turned her head to Joaquin on her left. "Are you alright, my wife?"

    Aries nearly bit her tongue at how Joaquin addressed her. It was alright before, but not in front of her lover! Surely, Aries was more concerned about what her lover would think than her husband.

    "Ye бк yes." She cleared her throat as she recollected her thoughts, shing Abel a smile. "It was a pleasure to have you, Baron Albe." бк what a way to disguise.

    "I hope you find what we prepared for youбн" she trailed off as her eyes glossed over the food served on the table. Her face contorted seeing it was a potato feast.

    "Of course, Your Royal Highness." Aries raised her gaze back to him when he replied happily. "I am honored to be invited by the crown prince and I appreciate you had taken the time to know and prepare this humble man''s favorite dishes."

    "Potatoes might be humbling, but they can sustain a man in times of crisis," he continued with a knowing tone. "That is why I am very fond of it and even if my businesses were flourishing well, it''s a reminder of where I came from."

    "You are a wise man, Baron Albe. No wonder you''ve attained what you have attained," she praised, keeping her demure in check.

    "Haha! How ttering." Abel nced at Joaquin and smiled brightly.

    "Shall we start our feast?" Thetter shot Aries a look, and she nodded before setting his eyes back to Abel.

    Abel smiled back. "With pleasure, Your Royal Highness."<sub> </sub>

    With that being said, the three of them started eating all sorts of potato dishes. Aries ate a small portion out of habit and then snuck a look at Joaquin. Thetter was eating with a smile, but he barely chewed as this man wasn''t used to eating humbling foods.

    Meanwhile, the man across from them was eating happily. One would think he sincerely loved potatoes at the sight of him, but Aries knew he was obsessed with a different kind of potato.

    "Rightбн I heard you''ve been traveling quite frequently, Baron Albe." Joaquin broke the silence after a moment, wiping the side of his lips with a cloth. "You have helped me a lot in our previous trade and since this is the only time I can extend my gratitude for your assistance, I was thinking of inviting you to our huntingpetition."

    Abel stared at Joaquin, who was reaching for a ss of wine. "Your Highness, how can this humble man ept this credit of helping the crown prince? I simply delivered what Your Highness generously paid for. Moreover, you helped me use the road in the seventh district, helping my business save some travel costs."

    "Baron Albe, that is nothingpared to your efficient work." Joaquin chuckled, pleased at how humble Abel was. Even so, he knew this man was cunning and clever. He was more than what meets the eye and he shouldn''t be deceived by it.

    ''Althoughбн I didn''t expect him to be significantly younger than I expected,'' the crown prince thought, thinking the two of them were around the same age.

    "Your Highness." Abel sighed helplessly before he nced at the crown princess for a moment. "I am honored. However, I would like to make a request to keep my identity unknown. I do not want to get caught up in politics. I hope you understand."

    "You can rest assured." Joaquin nodded reassuringly.

    "It is a wonderful asion бк "Aries abruptly stopped as she bit her tongue when she felt a shoe glide up from her ankle. She caught the teasing glint that flickered across Abel''s eyes for a split second.

    ''Reallyбн'' she pped his foot with her foot, keeping her expression in check so Joaquin wouldn''t notice anything. "It''s a wonderful asion to get to know more nobles and build connections since you''ve also bought a title."

    Abel fluttered his eyshes coquettishly as he extended his legs to reach her foot once again. This time, Aries didn''t resist as he slipped the tip of his boots under her skirt, feeling her shin. As he secretly teased her, Abel nced at the unsuspecting Joaquin.

    "I am in your care, Your Royal Highnesses. This humble man is already honored to get invited to the meal with the crown prince. My presence might not be much in the huntingpetition, but if you needed anything, I had prepared a gift for the both of you."

    "If you would please allow me, I will show you the gifts I prepared," he added, stopping himself from jumping over the table to pounce on her with that taunting look she was giving him.

    Joaquin smiled as he rocked his head, casting Aries a look, only to see her staring at Abel with sharp eyes. His brow arched but didn''t think much about that strange look in his wife''s eyes

    "Of course, Baron," Aries spoke before the crown prince could tell her to. "We would love to see those gifts."

    ''Ahhбн I knew this will be fun.'' Abel bit his lower lip as his darling potato was quick to adapt.

 Chapter 252 [Bonus Chapter]One Of Haimirichs Strong Points

    After their meal, Abel, who was now under the disguise of Baron Albe, led the crown princess and the crown prince to the gifts he brought for them. Standing in the courtyard of the Sapphire Pce, Aries and Joaquin watched him open the crate.

    "Please." Abel motioned his hands for them to see his gifts.

    Aries and Joaquin walked closer and her brows furrowed at the weapon she had glimpsed in Haimirich. She had never seen it being used, but some of the knights in the said empire carried these arms that were still under development.

    "These areбн?" she turned to Abel only to see him smile brightly.

    "Rifles." Abel took out the rifle inside and held it properly. "Unlike arrows, these were more capable of prating armors and had a much faster velocity."

    "I had seen arms like these before and even when we gathered enough, I hadn''t seen this type." Joaquin chimed in enthusiastically as he picked up another rifle from inside the crate. His eyes gleamed, caressing it to have a feel on it.

    "It is an invention in Haimirich."

    "What?" Aries gasped at the mention of Haimirich, causing Joaquin to nce at her.

    "Your Royal Highness, apologies if that surprised you, knowing Haimirich is your homnd." Abel kept his smile as her reaction was on point since this only meant he was smuggling arms. "However, I procured these legally since they were still under development and Haimirich needed funds for mass production. I got a few samples that passed the prototype stage."

    "Circe, it''s alright. Baron Albe is not only known in Maganti but in othernds as well." Joaquin cajoled with a subtle smile.

    Aries pursed her lips and huffed, darting her eyes between the two men. She couldn''t show further reaction since it would naturally displease the ''two'' men. She had to keep the act because she was now a crown princess in Maganti and not a revereddy in Haimirich.

    "Your Highness," Abel called, as he ced back the rifle, only to open another one. Her brows rose when he held a pistol and approached her. "This one is perfect for you. I heard the crown princess was a good archer back in Haimirich. Although this pistol can only hit your target with close proximitypared to arrows, it''s lighter and easy to carry around."

    Abel stopped in front of her, offering the pistol to her. Aries gazed up at him, staring into his eyes for a moment before she reached for it. As she did so, he raised his pinky to caress her finger, barely stopping himself from holding her hand entirely.

    Aries nced up at him as she curled her pinky around his for a split second before epting the pistol.

    "Is this what you call light?" she asked as she held it with both her hands, twisting and turning her wrist to study the weapon in her possession.

    "Compare to the big guys." Abel humored before ncing at Joaquin, holding his hands behind him. "I hope my gifts pleased Your Royal Highnesses."

    "Haha!" Joaquinughed as he held the rifle in a shooting stance, aiming it at the open expanse. When he heard Abel say, "it''s loaded," his eyes glinted, cing his finger on the trigger before firing it.

    <strong>BANG!</strong><sub> </sub>

    Aries jumped at the deafening noise while Abel held her shoulder to still her. She gazed up at him, only to see him smile while nodding reassuringly.

    "That noiseбн" Her heart was racing, feeling it constrict as she had heard that noise in the past бк although this one was far louder than the faint explosion during the battle between Rikhill and the Maganti empire.

    "It''s fine, darling." She gazed at Abel as he bent over from behind her and whispered in her ear while squeezing her shoulders. "I''m here."

    There was always something in his presence that somehow calmed her down. Pursing her lips, Aries breathed in and out as she set her eyes on Joaquin.

    "Amazing." Joaquin, who was thrilled about his new toy, ignored Aries as he chuckled. His eyes scrutinized the rifle; this one was one of the best he held so far. Surely, Haimirich''s inventions were one of their strongest point which was why they continued to flourish.

    After minutes of admiring the weapon, he faced his wife and Abel, who were standing near each other. His eyes fell on Abel and smiled.

    "Baron Albe, as expected from you. You never disappoint," he praised, cing the rifle back on top of the open crate. "It''s perfect to practice it in the hunting season."

    "I am honored you liked my presents, Your Highness."

    "Circe?" Joaquin raised his brows, waiting for her to speak her thoughts.

    Aries simply smiled at him and then faced Abel. She didn''t speak for a moment, exchanging looks with him as if she wasmunicating silently.

    "I am looking forward to seeing you in the hunting season so we can test out these gifts," she expressed, rocking her head, keeping her demure in check. She then cast Joaquin a look and sported a pleasing smile.

    "It''s a fruitful meeting," she remarked, watching Joaquin smile at her subtly. Aries marched to his side when he held out his hand, standing beside him.

    "Your Royal Highnesses, since I had delivered the presents myself, I am already d to know you liked them. But I must excuse myself, for I still have arrangements to attend." Abel announced in a polite tone, bowing at Joaquin before marching to the crown prince. "May I?"

    Her lips curled up, cing her hand on his palm. His fingers slowly curled around her delicately, holding her with such gentleness as he guided it to his lips.

    "It was a pleasure to meet you, Your Royal Highness." Abel kept his naturally sharp eyes on her as he ced a peck on the back of her hand. Aries simply smiled, squeezing his hand discreetly before he let her go. When Abel straightened his back, he faced Joaquin with a smile.

    "I''ll see you in the hunting grounds, Baron Albe." Joaquin smiled, but this time, however, his eyes glinted with contempt and jealousy.

 Chapter 253 The Warning Signs

    When they bid Abel goodbye, Aries nned to go to her office to finish what she needed to finish. She expected she would also part ways with Joaquin, but to her dismay, he offered to walk her back.

    "Wipe your hand." He handed her a handkerchief, walking beside her.

    Aries blinked twice, treading slower as she darted her eyes between the handkerchief to his face. Her lips pressed into a thin sh, epting the handkerchief with slight puzzlement.

    "You''re not jealous, are you?" she asked, wiping the hand Abel''s lips touched. "You''ll put me in a difficult position if you introduced me to a capable man, and get jealous of him."

    "Haha! Believe me or not, I am not my wife." Heughed, casting her a knowing look. "I am a man, and any man would have a hard time taking their eyes off of my wife. So I understand."

    "But you never asked me to wipe my hands, even when it is tradition. This is the first."

    "Baron Albe is a capable man, indeed, and his resources are useful. However, he is born as amoner who found luck in trades. I simply care about my wife''s welfare since he wouldn''t be able to touch you if not for me," he exined in a matter-of-fact, but no matter how he twist his words, his reason was obvious.

    Abel... although he shouldn''t be a problem or would pose a threat to him, there was this feeling that was dominating in his heart. The way he looked at his wife had meaning and, as a man, he knew that look. He couldn''t me Abel for desiring what was Joaquin''s, but he wanted to make his territory known to the man.

    "Should we hold hands?" she suggested, snapping him out of his thoughts. Without waiting for him to respond, Aries slipped her hand in between the gaps in his fingers. A smile monopolized her face as she gazed up, walking closer to his side.

    "Your wife is beautiful. You shouldn''t mind those who looked at her with desire because that''s the only thing they can do," she remarked, chuckling with her lips closed, looking ahead of the hallway. "I''m not saying I am faithful, but I don''t settle for less."

    Aries cast him a look and smirked. "No one is worthy to bat an eye for when I''m already with the most powerful man in this empire."

    "Haha... make sense." He rocked his head, not displeased at her honest remarks of not being faithful. Well, he knew his wife. She might be someone who was supporting him on the sideline, but that was mainly for her sake.

    "But that is quite disheartening," he continued, stopping in his tracks and facing her squarely. "You didn''t need to spell it out that you are not faithful."

    She hummed and nodded in agreement. "You''re right. I shouldn''t have worded it that way." Aries fluttered her eyes coquettishly.

    "I am realistic," she corrected, causing him to chuckle. Aries tugged his hand, walked closer, and guided his hand around her waist. She teasingly crawled her fingertips across his shoulder, eyes on him.

    "Thank you, Joaquin. Introducing me to Baron Albe would help me establish my position as the crown princess. Although it is a shame that he was born amoner, it doesn''t matter now since his resources made him a valuable person," came out a seductive voice, hinting to him she wanted to give him a reward by this gesture. "You''re really working hard."

    "Well, anything for my wife." Joaquin pulled her waist closer, smirking deviously as his eyes glinted. He pinched her chin up, bending over to im her lips. But before it could even touch her, he stopped when a voice came from Aries back.

    "Your Highness, I --"

    Aries arched her brow as she pushed his chest lightly before she turned around. Joaquin frowned at this interruption, raising his gaze, only to see Cherry standing ahead.<sub> </sub>

    "Countess Lloyd, I hope this is worthy of interrupting me and my wife." His voice was cold and distant, eyes glinting dangerously. It had been a while since he was ''intimate'' with Aries since his wife kept her distant, even in bed.

    "Joaquin." Aries, like an understanding wife, turned at him with a warning look. "Countess Lloyd is mydy-in-waiting, and she definitely knew her ce. She won''t approach us if it''s not important."

    She then cast Cherry a look. "Right? Countess Lloyd?"

    "Ye бк yes. Apologies for interrupting your time, but the guest Her Highness was waiting arrived today." Cherry hung her head low, hiding the frown and contempt in her eyes.

    "See?" Aries chuckled, facing Joaquin once again. "I need to settle things in the east ninth district before the hunting season."

    She tapped his chest and was about to part with him when she noticed his displeasure. The side of her lips curled up, standing on her toes, and nted a peck on his cheek. Before she drew back, Aries whispered in his ear.

    "We''ll continue it tonight." A yful smile dominated her face while biting her bottom lip. "I''ll excuse myself first."

    Aries winked at him before she turned around and walked away. Joaquin let out a shallow breath, eyes on her back. He saw her look back at him once again and grinned while walking side by side with Cherry.

    For reasons unknown, Joaquin stayed in the same spot for minutes. He touched the cheek where she kissed, and unknowingly, the corners of his lips curled up. He had been working hard to win her over, so her affectionate actions felt... rewarding.

    ''That''s the difference,'' he thought.

    Having to experience being in her good graces and her bad gave him a clear indication of which one he preferred. The crown princess could be the warmest and hottest, but she could also be the coldest if rubbed in the wrong way.

    "I guess it''s worth it," he whispered, in high spirits as he looked forward to tonight. But as he was about to turn around, the thought of Abel crossed his head once again, causing his eyes to glint.

    ''Why am I bothered by him?'' he wondered, having this restlessness in his heart. ''Circe wouldn''t even bat him an eye. Damn it...''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhile...</strong>

    Aries nced over her shoulder as Cherry was walking a step behind her side. Her yful front stered on her face faded, reced by a stony countenance as she looked ahead.

    "Countess Lloyd, I favored you because you are mydy-in-waiting. However, I am a woman and I know how the gears in our brain turn." Her voice was distant and unaffectionate. "In an affair, the woman always gets the short end of the stick. You do not want to fall from my good graces."

 Chapter 254 Attract The Moth To The Flame

    The hunting season approached in a sh, burying the matters regarding the eighth prince faster than anyone could grasp. People moved on quickly as new rumors rose in every gathering and the preparation for one of the most important seasons in the empire kept everyone in the high society preupied.

    Aries was not an exception. She had been preparing for the matters in the east ninth district because the inevitable winter woulde right after the season ended. Filling up the food storage so everyone under her jurisdiction would stay warm and had food to eat was her priority.

    Before she knew it, it was already the night of the season.

    In the Maganti Empire, the season before winter, everyone from across the empire would gather in the capital and celebrate such an auspicious asion. And the best way to start it and set up the tone was a grand banquet held in the imperial pce.

    It was Aries''s first official public appearance, but unlike all thedies who prepared the best of the bests attires, Aries barely gave the minimum attention to it. Not because she was confident she would stand out; standing out wasn''t her n.

    "Your Highnessбн"

    Aries''s brows rose as soon as she went out of her boudoir while Minerva and the maids were waiting for her. Their eyes were glittering like those stars in the night sky, holding their hands, admiring the beautiful Aries. Although she purposely didn''t prepare, her ethereal beauty was enough to catch anyone''s heart and eyes.

    With a tiara atop her golden hair braided loosely and wrapped around her head like a crown, her slender neck showcased its allure. Her face, which bore a natural and enchanting beauty, was powdered thin, keeping her makeup to a minimum of faint pink blush, but with bright red lips so one could read her mouth every time it moved.

    She was dressed in a sheer top, beaded cap sleeve royal purple dress with a boho tulle A-line that reached to the floor; a simple yet elegant which matched her enchanting demure and made her already fairplexion stand out.

    "Pick up your jaws and help me." She chuckled arrogantly, shaking her head as she marched to the full-body mirror in the middle of her chambers to look at herself. The moment she stood in front of the mirror, she finally understood why Minerva and the maidservants'' reactions were like that.

    She was effortlessly beautiful.

    Aries nced to her left and set her eyes back to Gertrude. Thetter offered her a smile as she bowed.

    "You did a great job, Gertrude." She then set her eyes on the person the mirror was reflecting. "I hope anyone in the banquet will look better than I do."

    "Your Highness! How can that be?!" Minerva, the unsuspecting maid, who had been busy taking care of Curtis and befriending all the maids in the Sapphire Pce, and unaware of many things unlike Gertrude, chimed in enthusiastically. She stood beside Gertrude, holding her fist in front of her chest, looking at Aries reassuringly.

    "I''m certain Your Royal Highness will stand out!" she cheered, ncing at the other maids, which nodded profusely to back her up.

    ''Thing is, Minerva, I don''t want to stand out,'' was what Aries wanted to reply, but bit her tongue as she chuckled.

    "The crown prince is quite a jealous man." Aries set her eyes back to the mirror and smiled subtly. "And at the same time, arrogant. I don''t want him to be torn between disying his wife to everyone or keeping her to a ce where he can only see."<sub> </sub>

    Minerva and the rest giggled at the crown princess''s humor as they were all in her good graces. Aries was only terrifying if rubbed in the wrong way, and every single one in the Sapphire Pce was aware of that. The only one who wasn''t giggling as they sang praises and do final touches to her dress was Gertrude.

    Gertrude knew things these servants didn''t know. And she understood Aries was referring to those times in her past.

    "Right." She snapped out of her trance when Aries turned her attention to her. "How about Curtis? Although he won''t be joining the banquet hall, he can still enjoy the foods prepared and the music."

    "He was in his chambers, waiting for you, Your Highness."

    Aries smiled in satisfaction. Curtis had been recovering and could now walk for a short distance. Although the distance from the Sapphire Pce to the Lazuli Pce бк where the banquet would be held бк was great. They would ride a carriage.

    "Gertrude, will you get my jewelry box?" Aries ordered, which Gertrude executed almost immediately. When thetter returned, she held it beside Aries while the crown princess open it.

    She had kept her essories to a minimum because her dress was already heavypared to how it appeared. She only wore a pair of studded diamond earrings, her wedding ring and the jade ring on the same finger, and ayered arm chain bracelet.

    ''I don''t have a ne,'' she thought, picking up her treasured essory among all. Her lips curled up, raising the ne with a small bottle as a pendant. It was the gift Abel gave her back in Haimirich, which she had to wear off on multiple asions when she arrived in the Maganti Empire.

    Aries had already modified it by changing the simple string to gold ted alloys and wrapped the small jar with simple decor so she could wear it at all times to match all her dresses. This was because a person like her, wearing something so simple which doesn''t match her elegant style, would be out of character. She didn''t want to deal with questions once someone бк Joaquin, to be precise бк noticed.

    "Your Highness, let me бк"

    ? "It''s fine, Gertrude." Aries smiled as she wore the ne herself. "I like this ne so much and I prefer if I wear it myself." бк or Abel put it around her neck.

    Once the servants were finished doing the final touches to her dress, Aries also finished linking the ne around her. Staring at herself, the side of her lips curled up into a bright smile. The glint that shed across her eyes for a split second wasn''t noticed.

    "Let''s go and see Curtis." She turned around and nced at everyone, who returned her energy twice.

    "Yes, Your Highness."

    With that being said, Aries marched towards the door while the servants followed, fixing the hem of her dress as it slightly swept the floor. While everyone was busy behind her, no one saw the smirk on her face.

    ''Tonightбн we''ll attract the moth to the me.''

 Chapter 255 [Bonus Chapter]I Never Like Her

    Sparkling dresses looked like blossoming flowers under the warm chandeliers in the great hall of the Lazuli Pce. The giggles and festive talk filled the air asdies unted their extravagant dresses adorned with as many flowers and pieces of jewelry to show off their wealth.

    Men, on the other hand, carried themselves with a more respectful air. A banquet held in the imperial pce was one of the best ces to make connections.

    Although aristocrats who only had this privilege found it insulting how families with newfound wealth and affiliated withmerce could now attend such a gathering. But no one had the audacity to voice it out since the empire acknowledged these people in trades and their contributions to the economy.

    Everyone was busy whispering in each other''s ears, hiding the smirk behind their fans, or gloating about their achievements. Suddenly, all that came to a halt when the doors opened. All eyes instantly shifted to the doors and caught two figures entering.

    The silence and surprise were short-lived as whispering and murmuring soon exploded in the great hall. Ladies, who studied the woman in a long, studded peach dress, revealed jealousy in their eyes. While men gazed at her with either surprise or desire.

    Aries smirked, seeing things unfold from the prepared seat on the raised tform for her and for Joaquin.

    "So this is what you were aiming for, huh?" she cast Joaquin a side-eye and leaned her elbow on the armrest.

    "Countess Lloyd is a lovely woman. It''ll be a shame to not put it to good use." She shrugged. "I simply gifted her a dress I designed. Whates after is out of my control."

    He chuckled as he gaze at the great hall before them where everyone was at.

    "I''d say it''s genius. No wonder you used to dominate the high society in Haimirich." Joaquin rocked his head, listening to the murmuring, and could only make up a few discussions.

    Apparently, although everyone was surprised by the Lloyds'' appearance, it wasn''t because everyone was interested in them. People were talking mostly about the dress Cherry was wearing since a rumor recently spread in high society about Aries''s generosity.

    How it spread or where the rumor came from did not matter. Everyone, especiallydies, looked forward to this so-called dress the crown princess designed herself. So now, after seeing it worn by the Countess, their interest shot up to the roof.

    Cherry was already beautiful and desirable, now looked different. It was not like her face changed, but her style and aura changed since Aries clothed her from head to toe.

    "You don''t n on selling them, do you?" He asked out of in curiosity,ughing when she looked at him with dismay.

    "My crown prince, should I auction these dresses and tarnish our reputation? I''d rather burn those than make myself appear I am in dire need of finances."

    "My bad." He raised his hand and shrugged.

    He knew he shouldn''t have asked since his wife was a woman born with a golden spoon. Discounts and free things were considered insulting бк same with selling stuff. She would rather put all of it in the archive.

    Only <strong>''that woman'' </strong>in thend of the ruined green would resort to that humbling action.

    "But Earl Lloyd is surely a lucky man to marry such a beautiful wife." Aries changed the subject, eyes on Cherry and her ''average-looking'' husband бк or what Cherry used toin as if the Earl was a curse for her.

    "Really?" Joaquin, who hadn''t paid much attention to those two approaching figures, gazed at them. His eyes veered to Cherry, and he must admit, she looked different tonight.

    If Cherry was dressed up like that from the beginning, he would''ve considered her. But before Joaquin could have further ridiculous thoughts, he nced at Aries on instinct.

    "If luck is what we''re talking about, I am the luckiest." He smiled, watching her eyes dte slightly in surprise before facing him. "You look stunning, Circe, and even if you purposely dressed as simply as possible to look humble as the first impression, you still looked fine and expensive."<sub> </sub>

    Aries held her breath as she didn''t expect this from him. "Don''t look at me that way." She looked away to hide her flustered face, hearing him chuckle at her timid reaction.

    "Can''t help it." Joaquin teased.

    "Greetings to the crown prince, greetings to the crown princess."

    Both Aries and Joaquin smiled at Earl Lloyd and his wife, the crown princessdy-in-waiting. Both of them received their greetings, showcasing the harmonious rtionship they wanted everyone to see and talk about.

    <strong>******</strong>

    Meanwhile, as everyone was talking about the seemingly good chemistry between the future emperor and empress, Inez scoffed. Unlike any other night where she would be the center of attention, she purposely dressed less fancifully than usual, knowing it was Aries''s first public appearance.

    However, someone dared dress so extravagantly and steal the crown princess spotlight. Inez knew that dress was Aries''s gift to Cherry, but for her, if Cherry had the slightest decency or proper decorum, she would refuse.

    "I never liked her," Inez mumbled, standing near the pir of the hall.

    "Who?" she quirked a brow when Ismael''s voice came from behind her. "The crown princess? Or the Countess?"

    She cast him a side-eye, not expecting him to attend tonight''s banquet. During all the fiasco almost a month ago, Inez never had a chance to talk to the third prince due to their conflicting schedule. Also, Ismael was often busy with things she didn''t know about.

    "It''s good to see you, brother," she greeted coldly, peeling her eyes away from him. "It''s been a while."

    "It has been." Ismael smiled, keeping his chin up. "So, which of the two is it?"

    p "Do I need to choose just one?"</anda>

    Ismaelughed before he cast her a knowing look. "Sister, I''m always amazed by your fierceness. It''s a surprise you didn''t seem to n to be the center of this eventбн quite strange."

    "Being the center of this event just to deal with people like you?" sheughed in ridicule. "No, thanks."

    "Hahбн" he shrugged as he didn''t n on pressing her nerves, looking around the grand banquet Inez prepared. Inez was famous for her extravagant parties, but it was easy to discern tonight''s banquet seemed to be handled meticulously as if she used every wire of her brain to put everything together.

    But Ismael didn''t dwell in tonight''s venue as his eyes glinted upon catching Roman''s figure walking away from the banquet hall. The side of his lips curled up before he turned and faced his vicious little sister.

    "Just a piece of advice as your half-brother. You should smile and open your heart, sister. That way, you just don''t explode andsh out at people." His smile stretched broader, seeing how her eyes grew icy. "What goes aroundes around, after all. I''m just worried about your welfare."

    "Very well. This lucky prince will go on his way to meet a few people. Have a great night, Inez," he added when she scoffed in response to his piece of advice.

    As he walked away, Ismael nced in Aries''s direction, only to see her gaze at him as if she could see him, even in this crowd.

    ''Damnбн she scares me.''

 Chapter 256 [Bonus Chapter]Foolish

    On this auspicious asion with the empire''s great harvest and flourishing economy, everyone shared themon festive air that resonated across the banquet hall of the Lazuli Pce. Aries and Joaquin remained in their seats, epting greetings, but mostly apart from everyone else.

    "Everyone had been more weing than I expected," Aries muttered with a satisfied nod, smiling at a group ofdies and gentlemen dancing in sync in the middle of the hall. Joaquin quirked a brow, casting her a side-eye.

    "You speak as though you didn''t expect that," he returned with a chuckle. "Countess Lloyd had garnered enough attention. So obviously, everyone is aware of receiving special treatment, just like her. Now, people wanted to get in your good graces."

    Aries turned her head in his direction, seeing him wink at her as his lips curled up proudly. She bit her lower lip to suppress a grin as she peeled her eyes away from him.

    "It''s better than I expected," she confessed, rocking her head.

    His eyes remained on her figure and his smile grew subtle. Joaquin was d to see her pleased by being epted. Normally, he wouldn''t stay in a banquet this long because it usually bore him. He would rather have a banquet on his own in a private lodging area wheredies would apany him secretly.

    But he didn''t have a n like that tonight. Joaquin just wanted to stay until she wanted to leave so the two of them could return to the Sapphire Pce.

    "Circe," he called for no reason, waiting for her to look back at him.

    "Yes?"

    Joaquin pressed his lips into a thin line, watching her brows elevate while waiting for whatever he had to say.

    "What?" she asked, tilting her head to the side.

    "Nothing." He chuckled weakly and cleared his throat, setting his eyes on the crowd. "I just want to call your name."

    He cast her a teasing side-eye, only to see her staring at him almost innocently. He noticed how she bit her lips and breathed slower.

    "If you keep calling my name for no reason, you will bother me," sheined under her breath while heughed. "You''ve been acting strangely recently. It rms me one way or another."

    "Am I?" he kept his eyes ahead, on the crowd,pletely baffled at her remarks.

    "Mhm. You call my name more than usual andбн never mind."

    Joaquin pondered about it and only then did he realize he was doing things he would never do to someone. After their meeting with Baron Albe, Joaquin was unconsciously paying more attention to his wife. It somehow became a habit of asking Hernan about her whereabouts, what she was doing, and the sort.

    And whenever they were together, he was ten times attentive. So, he would know if she was upset, happy, relieved, or whatever emotions she was feeling.

    As realization dawned on him, he gazed at her once again.

    "Do I make you ufortable?" he asked out of in curiosity, watching her lower her eyes.

    "Yes."

    He frowned. "Why?"

    "I don''t want to get used to the attention," came out a muffled reply before raising her head, sporting a distant countenance. Aries faced him squarely and huffed.

    "Just keep me at arm''s length. Not too close or too far, Joaquin. Save me the trouble of adjusting when things changed for the worse."

    Silence instantly fell on them as the festive voices and the sound of the orchestra faded in their ears. They looked at each other; her expression was firm and determined while a somber countenance dominated his face.

    For a reason he couldn''t understand, her remarks left a bitter taste in his mouth. Joaquin understood where she wasing from since their rtionship was mostly for mutual benefits. The crown princess wanted him to be the greatest emperor to spite the tyrant in Haimirich while he was keeping her close because she could be handy in the future.<sub> </sub>

    That had been his reason ever since he thought of winning her over. To squeeze out every drop of benefits he could take from her. What he would get in the process, such as the fun conversations, the sharedughter, the sweet nothings, and a great partner in bed, were all bonuses.

    But why did her words bring this pang in his heart?

    "Keep you at arm''s length, huh?" he whispered as he lowered his eyes, tapping his fingers against the armrest.

    "Mhm. That''s better for me," came out a muffled reply as she also gazed at the crowd with a mncholic air around her.

    The two of them were instantly enveloped with silence as neither of them talked for a while. It was unlike the mood between them just moments ago with the matters at hand. Still, she forced a subtle smile, so those who were looking in their direction wouldn''t notice.

    When Joaquin huffed after a moment, his lips parted as he turned to Aries. However, before he could say anything to her, Hernan approached his side.

    "Your Highness," called Hernan, causing Joaquin to gaze at him. Hernan bowed as he approached the two since Aries also looked in his direction before he marched closer.

    Aries quirked a brow as she watched Hernan bend over to whisper in Joaquin''s ears. Thetter rocked his head before facing her.

    "I''ll have to attend to some important matters," he exined, noticing the bitter glint that instantly flickered across her eyes. "Iбн Hernan, I''lle with youter."

    "Huh?" both Aries and Hernan gazed at him with puzzlement which made the crown prince chuckle.

    "I can''t leave her alone in here, can I?" he sported a knowing look, keeping his eyes on his wife.

    Worry instantly resurfaced in Hernan''s eyes, which Aries noticed, but she kept her surprised countenance. She studied Joaquin''s expression before she smiled subtly.

    "It''s alright, Joaquin." She reached for his hand and squeezed it. "It will be in my conscience if this important matter is dyed because of me."

    "No, it''s alright бк" he frowned when she shook her head mildly.

    "Please." Aries looked him in the eye and nodded encouragingly. "It won''t be long, right?" she asked, shifting her attention to Hernan.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness." Hernan lowered his head slightly, hoping Joaquin would listen to his wife since this was important.

    Aries kept her forced smile as she squeezed Joaquin''s hand once again. "I will see you if you''re taking longer than you should. I will be fine."

    The two of them gazed at each other before Joaquin let out a deep exhale. He was willing to put the matter forter, even if it was important to make her happy, but his wife focused on their objectives, than her own heart.

    In his mind, Aries was simply doing this because she didn''t want to appear to be needy. She knew if she asked for too much, he would get tired of her. But right nowбн Joaquin couldn''t even think of anything other than staying beside her where he could feel her presence and inhale the pleasant scent ofvender that he could only smell around her.

    "Fine." In the end, Joaquin still agreed so she wouldn''t get worried. "I''ll be back."

    "Mhm." Aries nodded, watching Joaquin rise from his seat and followed Hernan. As he walked away, he looked back at her once again and she shed him a smile.

    Her smile persisted but faded slightly when she faced the hall once again. From a far distance, Aries, sitting alone on the raised tform all alone, looked lonely upon Joaquin''s departure. Anyone who could see her could not help but have this desire to apany her.

    One of them was Inez, who had been drinking more than she should and was standing alone by one of the pirs, keeping her eyes in Aries''s direction.

    ''Serves you right,'' she thought and smirked. ''You don''t knowбн or maybe you already knew it was foolish to hold on to a man like him, but you still do.''

 Chapter 257 An Affair

    Forbidden things were satisfying. It was also the same for those who hated being restricted. The more you warned them, the more they wanted to cross that line.

    One of those people was Cherry, Aries''sdy-in-waiting.

    ''I had known her shenanigans that she will not like or maybe she will like this attention for a bit,'' Aries thought, ignoring all the unwanted attention from the crowd as her eyes searched for Cherry.

    Although Aries''s main agenda for giving her that dress was to establish her position, there was another reason Aries had in mind. The dress was extravagant, and anyone who was wearing it would stand out. Well, it was a design from the best seamstress in Haimirich who pour all their heart and soul and even their tears in fear of getting their hands severed if it didn''t please Abel.

    That was why, despite this crowd, Aries immediately saw where Cherry was. She smirked internally as she watched Cherry discreetly exit the banquet hall all alone.

    ''Oh, Cherryбн'' Ariesughed in amusement as she kept her eyes on Cherry''s figure. ''Your greed and insecurity will be the death of you.''

    It didn''t take long when Cherry, the star of tonight''s banquet, was no longer in sight. But Aries remained in her seat and kept her demure in check.

    The time Aries warned Cherry days before the start of the season, she felt that Cherry had been overly friendly. Aries fell for this in the past, thinking how humble and kind and lovely Cherry was.

    However, this woman was simply maniptive, insecure, and spiteful.

    Cherry hated it when someone was above her and believed she was always better than anyone. She had always thought her low birth, being the daughter of a Baron was a stain. A person like her had bottomless greed.

    The reason Aries had been caressing her triggers was so this woman would hate her to the point she would make a mistake. And that mistakeбн would be tonight.

    ''I guess it''s time to fetch my husband.''

    Aries nted her hands on the armrest and pushed herself up. Keeping her chin up, she elegantly and silently walked away to see her husband. As soon as she turned around, she smirked as she felt this distinct gaze from the crowd, which had never left her since the beginning.

    Inez.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Joaquin was on his way to the banquet hall after checking thest preparation for the hunting season. Walking through the silent and barely lit hallway, he stopped when he was about to make a turn to avoid bumping into someone. But thedy who suddenly turned up still bumped against his chest.

    He quirked a brow as he gazed down, recognizing the woman, who hurriedly took a step back.

    "Your Royal Highness!" Cherry gasped as if their meeting wasn''t intentional, clutching her hand close to her chest as she bowed. "Please forgive me. I wasn''t looking!"

    "You weren''t looking?" he tilted his head to the side. "Lady Lloyd, what is it that you want from me now?"

    She raised her head only to see him smile amicably. Her eyes shook as she swallowed down a mouthful of saliva, figuring out there was no point in lying.

    "This ce is off-limits. You won''t be here if you didn''t follow me, am I wrong?" His friendly toneced his voice, scrutinizing her from head to toe. Now that he was seeing her up close, Aries was right.<sub> </sub>

    ? Cherry was beautiful, and her dress tonight gave her a fresh look. Joaquin didn''t notice it until now since he was being discreet to not upset his wife.

    "Your Royal Highness." She cleared her throat as she took a deep breath, raising her chin up, chest out. "I want to speak with you regarding the crown princess."

    "About my wife?" he cocked his head to the side.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Joaquin was quick to notice her reluctance to talk now since they were in the hallway. Thinking it was a piece of important information, he rocked his head.

    "Follow me." He turned around to find a room where they could talk privately. As soon as he did, her eyes glinted as she looked at his back with determination.

    Cherry kept her poise, straightening her back to follow his tracks silently. With that being said, the two of them reached the nearest sitting room not far away from where they ''bumped'' into each other.

    As they were entering the room, Aries was standing in the dark corner of the hallway. Her back was against the wall, hiding from her husband and herdy-in-waiting.

    In the dark, her excited grin was unseen.

    ''Oh, myбн what did I just witness?'' she bit her tongue to stop herself from bursting out inughter. ''I knew my heart will break tonight. Oh, poor me.''

    Aries hung her head low when she heard feather-like footsteps that had been following her since she left the banquet hall. When she raised her head, her grin and contempt in her eyes were reced with nothing but the pain of betrayal.

    It didn''t matter if something would happen between Joaquin and Cherry because the second they entered that room secretly, anyone would only have one conclusion.

    <strong>An affair. </strong>

    "Why are you here?" she asked the person standing several feet away from her, trying to hide the sadness in her teary eyes.

    "Iбн" Inez trailed off as she studied Aries''s mncholic front. It was as though Aries was on a brink of having an emotional breakdown, but she was keeping her false bravado since that was her character.

    "Please don''t tell anyone I was here, ninth sister." Aries tilted her head down slightly. "I had a pleasant night. The banquet was a sess, thanks to you, but I don''t feel well and will resign early."

    That was all Aries said before she pivoted on her heel to walk away. But the second she did, a tear rolled down her cheek, which didn''t go unnoticed by Inez. Thetter stayed in her spot, wondering why was she crying without making a sound?

    ''Youбн'' Inez took a step to follow her, but halted for reasons she couldn''t understand. She didn''t know how long she stayed there in the dark, and she only snapped from her trance when she caught a figure from the corner of her eyes.

    Inez turned her head, only to see Cherry walking out of the sitting room. Her brows furrowed as Cherry walked away in the opposite direction from where Inez stood. Minutester, she finally realized why the crown princess was crying when Joaquin exited the same room where Cherry came from.

    ''That womanбн'' Her body suddenly trembled as the surge of anger and disgust swelled in her chest as realization dawned on her. ''How dare sheбн!''

 Chapter 258 I Want To Go Home

    "Your Highness!"

    Gertrude perked up the second Aries came into the lodging room where Curtis was enjoying the garden with various snacks. Worry instantly resurfaced in her eyes as she hurriedly weed Aries, who was wiping her tears.

    "Your Highness, are you alright?" asked Gertrude to Aries while offering her a handkerchief. Aries didn''t respond as she epted the handkerchief to wipe her tears.

    "Hahбн" Aries sniffled while wiping the corner of her eyes. "Hahбн hahaбн hahaha!"

    rmed, Gertrude took a step back on instinct, eyes shaking on Aries. Thetter''s sniffles just developed into waves ofughter. It grew louder and sinister resonating across the entire lodging room that Curtis, who was staring at the garden, also turned his head in Aries''s direction.

    "Oh, goodnessбн!" Aries wheezed, trying to suppress herughter, but to no avail. She wiped the corner of her eyes, clearing her throat in between her chuckles.

    "Your Highness, did you drink more than you should have?" Gertrude inquired as she got a whiff of wine from Aries. Thetter chuckled as she gazed at Gertrude and smiled brightly.

    "No, Gertrude. Of course not." Aries leaped and threw herself at Gertrude, ignoring how Gertrude''s back stiffened under her embrace. "Oh, Gertrude. You remind me of my dear Nana. She''s also like you бк very cute."

    "Your Highnessбн"

    "It''s fine. No one is here aside from you andбн" Aries turned her head in Curtis'' direction. Her face instantly brightened the second she locked eyes with him.

    "Curtis!" she eximed, letting go of Gertrude as she dramatically skipped her steps to Curtis. "Curtis, dearest friendship!"

    As usual, Curtis'' face was nk, blinking at her when Aries stood beside his chair. Her cheek was painted with faint red, eyes glimmering as they squinted, adoring Curtis as he looked very different now than when they first met in this ce. Gertrude and the servants took good care of him, covering his scarred body with a fine formal suit.

    Although Curtis was still petite, he wasn''t malnourished and ragged anymore. He just looked like a sickly nobleman, but his charm had significantly resurfaced once again.

    "Curtis," she called, slumping on the floor, ignoring Gertrude''s gasp. "Curtisбн"

    Aries chuckled as she moved closer to his seat, cing a hand over his knees, then rested her chin over the back of her hand. She was looking up at Curtis, while thetter gazed down at her.

    "Curtis." Aries kept repeating his name with a smug grin on her face. "Hehбн you look so cute."

    Her cheek squished as she rested it on the back of her hand, eyes still on Curtis. "Did you enjoy the food tonight?" she asked, but like usual, she received no response from him.

    "I enjoyed it so much," she huped, chuckling as if she thought of something funny. "Gertrude is right. I think I drank more than I should have."

    "Your Highnessбн" Gertrude called worriedly as she squatted down next to Aries. "Why бк alright, I will tell the knights to prepare your carriage to go back home."

    "Homeбн" Aries''s weakugh had a touch of sarcasm. "My homeбн Curtis, our home is ruined. How are we supposed to go back home when it''s just a vast cemetery?"<sub> </sub>

    "Mydyбн" Gertrude sighed deeply as it seemed Aries surely had too much to drink. She didn''t know the reason, but this was dangerous as Aries wasn''t being cautious like usual.

    Aries frowned, and her face crumpled. "I want to go home tooбн" came out a muffled voice, lips quivering as tears swam in her eyes. "Curtisбн I want to go home. I missed everyone so muchбн"

    "Mydyбн"

    As Aries began weeping, the soft-hearted Gertrude couldn''t also help but tear up. Aries was always imposing, especially when she stepped foot in the Maganti Empire. Although she appeared bright and happy on the surface in Haimirich, Gertrude always felt like Aries was someone who was close yet so far.

    Never once did Aries cry or expressed her feelings regarding her sentiments at Rikhill. It had always been anger, but nowбн she looked like a lost little girl who simply wanted to go home.

    "I missed Davienбн ricбн I want to hear her y the piano again. I missed everyone''s smile and Father''s nagging. Take me back there. I want to see them again.

    Curtis kept his eyes on her as she wept without caring about her appearance. He pursed his lips and nted a hand on her head, ruffling her hair mildly to console her.

    As Aries was weeping and Gertrude wept with her, thetter''s breath hitched when the entrance slowly creaked open. In an instant, Gertrude broke out in sweats as her blood ran cold because Aries was still expressing her sentiments about Rikhill.

    It was as though for that split second as the door opened, her heart stopped beating. Aries continued, not noticing that a person was entering the room.

    "What a piece of work." Gertrude only heaved a sigh of relief when Abel turned up at the door.

    "Your Majesty." She hurriedly picked up herself as she bowed, taking a step back as he marched to where Aries and Curtis were.

    "I should''ve stopped her earlier," he muttered, nting his hand on his hip as he stood behind Aries.

    Just minutes ago, Aries returned to the banquet hall and drank wine since it was only natural for her to drink after ''witnessing her husband''s infidelity.'' However, what she didn''t expect was that the wine had a strong alcohol level and its effect would only kick in minutes after consumption.

    "Gertrude, I will take her with me," he announced before Abel bent over to carry the weeping Aries. But before he could touch her, Curtis moved his hand forward until his entire palm was over Aries''s head.

    "Huh?" Abel cocked his head to the side as he raised his eyes to meet Curtis''s gaze. "Well, who do we have here?"

    "Your Majesty, that''s Her Highness'' friend," Gertrude hurriedly exined before casting Curtis a look. "Sir Curtis, that is His Majesty, the person who is helping Lady Aries. She''ll be safe with him."

    But to no avail. Curtis kept his eyes locked with Abel''s. Thetter arched a brow before he leaned in until his face was a palm length away from his.

    Abel narrowed his eyes, and after several seconds, the side of his lips curled up.

    "How interesting," he crooned. "He''sing with me as well."

 Chapter 259 Cursed

    Curtis perched on the spot across from Abel inside the carriage. He kept his eyes on Aries, who was sniffling and huping in Abel''s arms. Meanwhile, Abel caressed her back tofort her, but he fixated his eyes on the man sitting in front of him.

    "You," Abel called, but Curtis, like usual, didn''t respond as if he didn''t hear him. He smacked his lips, gazing at Aries, who tugged his inner blouse to blow on it.

    He sighed. "What a baby," he mumbled, patting her back as he didn''t mind her action.

    "You should rest, my darling." Abel ced his hand on the side of her head, resting it on his chest. "You''re breaking my heart if you continue on crying."

    "But I want to go homeбн" Aries sniffled as she gazed up at him. Her eyes were already swollen and her vision was flickering. The constant bounce on the carriage wasn''t helping her.

    "Can you take me home?"

    Abel kept a straight face as he studied her swollen eyes. "Sure." And then said louder so the coachman could hear him, "take us to Rikhill."

    "You''re really taking me home?" she huped.

    "Darling, I always take you to heaven. What gave you the impression I can''t take you anywhere else in this world?" he arched a brow, smirking when her face rxed to the point her expression looked smug. "Now go rest. It will be a long journey."

    "Your Majesty."

    Suddenly, a knight in armor, who was riding a horse beside the carriage, turned up. Conan pushed his helm''s visor up, only to reveal the dismay in his eyes.

    "You can''t go to Rikhill! Can you see the coachman in distraught at the order you gave!?" he harrumphed, pointing at the stunned coachman who was gazing ahead with nk eyes. "How can go to Rikhill without an hour of preparation at least?"

    "But Conan, look at my poor darling. She''s been crying so much she won''t stop!"

    Conan cringed as he peeked through the open window, only to see Aries blowing her nose with Abel''s clothes once again. He was watching everything from the sideline as well, so he sort of knew what happened about Aries''s slip up.

    "She will spoil her ns if we''re not here," he grumbled, keeping his nagging forter since there was no point in berating her in this state.

    "Oh no, Conan. My darling will never spoil her own ns."

    Conan frowned while Abel chuckled. Thetter smirked knowingly before gazing down at Aries, who had finally calmed down while putting all her weight on him.<sub> </sub>

    "She knew I was there," he continued, pulling her body closer as the mild bounce of the carriage caused her to slip slightly. "If Aries figured out the alcohol level, and she is all alone, she would drink more until she passes out, so there was no way she would speak the things she didn''t want others to hear."

    Abel lowered his head and sniffed the floral scent of her hair. "Even if it means leaving herself vulnerable for the night." His voice dropped as his eyes glinted, knowing Aries through and through.

    "But Your Majesty, we''re not going to Rikhill tonight, right?" asked Conan after minutes, since he couldn''t argue with Abel if he put it that way. It sounded like Aries would totally do that to save her n since she was already prepared for any setback, just like this.

    "We are going to Rikhill." Abel raised his head and sported a dull expression. "I gave her my word."

    "But бк! Ughhбн" Conan pinched the space between his brows but figured he was still wearing a helmet. "Lady Aries will catch a cold if she travels tonight. She needs to rest for a bit since she won''t feel better tomorrow."

    Conan had a lot of more logical arguments to use to stop Abel from his impulsive ns. However, none of them would matter to Abel. Therefore, he could only use his brain and use Aries as an excuse since it was her request in the first ce!

    "Huhбн" Abel pressed his lips into a thin line as he considered Conan''s argument. He had a point and Aries was only mumbling these things because she was drunk. Her heart was the one that was speaking.

    "Make sense. I''ll take her to Rikhill next time." Conan heaved a sigh of relief when Abel agreed. "It''s not like she''s crying anymore."

    Abel gazed down at Aries and she already dozed off after crying her heart out. His eyes softened as he smiled subtly, securing her in his embrace, as it had been a while since he held her like this. If only he could confine her in his arms like this forever, he would''ve done it.

    "My poor Aries. You truly break my heart and make me want to revive everyone," he mumbled, causing Conan''s eyes to dte as he looked at him through the window in disbelief. The second Conan''s eyesnded on Abel''s soft expression, he knew that moment Abel wasn''t simply saying things in passing.

    "Your Majesty, please don''t say such things that defy the natural orderбн" Conan trailed off as he finally noticed the person inside the carriage with Abel. He didn''t notice Curtis since thettercked a sense of presence.

    "Who is this?" he blurted out, catching Abel''s attention. Abel cast Curtis a look, and he finally remembered he was in here as well.

    "She''s my darling''s friend," he answered, causing Conan to narrow his eyes as he studied Curtis.

    "He''s cursed," whispered Conan as he could sense a curse corrupting Curtis'' soul.

    "He is. The reason he could do nothing is that doing something hurts him like hell," Abel exined as he had already diagnosed Aries''s friend as an expert. "It''s already a miracle he could stand up and walk as my Aries wanted without knowing the problem doesn''t lie within humanprehension. It seems the people in Rikhill had all strong willpower to keep their sanity despite the hell they all went through."

    "It''s interesting," Abel continued as he smirked, exchanging eye contact with Curtis. "Take him to Isaiah, Conan. My dearest friend here had been itching to curse the hell out of my lover''s husband."

 Chapter 260 Appraising The Goods

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    Ismael had been thinking about what Aries had told her during theirst conversation. Until now, he had seen nothing that was worthy of the trade of the seal she surrendered to Joaquin. He hadn''t stopped from working on strengthening his forces, but he kept everyone at arm''s length бк even Enrique, the fourth prince.

    He couldn''t make the same mistake as before because Ismael was hundred percent certain the next time he wouldmit such a mistake, it would be the end for him. Even if it wasn''t Joaquin, Aries would surely cut him off without batting an eye.

    So while Aries was busying herself with things he couldn''tprehend, Ismael had to do what he had to do. That was on top of garnering loyal people who would die for him and had seen the real colors of the crown prince, he was conducting his own investigation.

    This time around, Ismael was working alone. He could only trust himself.

    So farбн after observing things unfold from the sidelines, he had noticed some anomalies.

    Tonight, he would confirm things in his own way.

    "What a surprise, brother!" Ismael intoned, stopping in front of the greenhouse in the Lazuli Pce, eyes on the person exiting it. "Are you meeting ady secretly? I don''t smell any, though."

    He tilted his upper body to the side to check the shut ss doors behind Roman, the seventh prince, and also Joaquin''s sword. His brows rose as he shed Roman an almost innocent smile.

    "Were you following me?" asked Roman without beating around the bush like usual.

    "Me? Why would I follow you, brother?" Ismaelughed, gazing at him from head to toe, hands up to his shoulder level. "In terms of skills, you are stronger than I am. You would''ve noticed me if I were following you!"

    "Haha! I simply came here to breathe some fresh air бк that''s all," he added with a grin. "What about you? Are you also here to breathe some fresh air?"

    Roman''s eyes were cold and distant, standing still, his expression was overall unreadable. Unlike Joaquin and Ismael, who were experts in pressing people''s nerves, Roman didn''t have the talent to twist his words.

    "May you breathe all the fresh air tonight," he replied after a moment, tilting his head down slightly before he walked forward. He didn''t n on having a conversation with Ismael since Joaquin had also been cautious recently. Knowing the crown prince, once he was suspicious of someone, gaining his trust would be ten times more difficult than the first time.

    However, as Roman brushed past Ismael, he halted.

    "I''m kidding." Ismael kept his face forward, smirking deviously. "I came to appraise something."

    The space between the seventh''s prince brows furrowed as he cast Ismael a side-eye. "I am not a piece to be appraised."<sub> </sub>

    "Is that so?" the third prince threw his head back, eyes at the moon glowing in the clear night sky. "What do you think Joaquin sees you, then? His brother he would die for? A family he wouldn''t allow to be wronged?"

    "If you came here to invite me on your side, you''vee to the wrong person. I will pretend this meeting didn''t happen."

    "No, Rome. I don''t care if Joaquin hears about this, but you do." Ismael kept his head in the same position, but his eyes moved to the corner and onto Roman''s side. "You will not speak about this because it will risk your spot from the crown prince''s good graces. Don''t make it sound like you are doing me a favor."

    The atmosphere between them instantly dropped and grew stifling as Roman twisted his neck to face Ismael. His eyes were sharp, unsmiling at the third prince''s audacity.

    "What do you want from me?" he asked, delving into the matter like always. "You will note in here just to press my nerves, will you?"

    "What do I want from youбн?" This time, Ismael shifted his attention back to the sky and smiled subtly. "I want nothing from you, Rome. I told you, I just came in here to appraise something."

    There was a moment of silence between them before Ismael added, "Violet." He then nced at Roman and, as expected, thetter''s unchanging poker face changed slightly as his brows creased.

    "Have you figured out the person who burned her?"

    "It was an ident." Roman''s voice was low and dangerous, his jaw tightening as his fingers curled into a tight fist. "Stop talking about the dead. The next time you speak her name so carelessly, I won''t be lenient, brother."

    Once again, Roman didn''t wait for Ismael to reply as he walked away. But then again, just after he took three steps away, he halted and looked back with dted eyes.

    "In this small kingdom in the south, right outside our great Maganti, I bought and not long ago." Ismael kept his eyes on the sky before he slowly pivoted on his heel to face Roman. "I named it Hacienda Vi. It''s a vineyard."

    He slowly advanced in Roman''s direction and stopped when he was standing shoulder to shoulder with him. Ismael tilted his head back, waiting for Roman to return his gaze.

    "It is a good ce to rest if you want to have some time off to clear your head. The air in there is fresher since no matter where you go in here, all you can smell is the permeating scent of hypocrisy and our rotting system." He shed a knowing smile as he bumped his shoulder against Roman lightly. "It''s not close, but it is also not far. You can visit it after the season, but you might miss the caretaker since she''s only there temporarily."

    Ismael pressed his lips and took a deep breath, nting his hand over Roman''s shoulder and squeezing it.

    "Take some time off. You deserved it." He patted his brother''s shoulder before retrieving his hand. "Don''t get me wrong, though. I''m not doing this for you. I still see you as one of my enemies I will butcher, unlessбн youe to me on your own."

    "I''m looking forward to your answer, Roman Imperial," Ismael added before he resumed his steps, his lips curling up triumphantly as it seemed Aries was right. Surrendering the seal was nothingpared to gaining this man on their side.

 Chapter 261 Not Good

    <strong>Back in the Lazuli Pceбн</strong>

    When Joaquin left the sitting room where he had a private discussion with Cherry, he nned to return to the banquet hall to join Aries. However, he found himself standing outside the room and in front of the window. Hands on his back, eyes at the thick darkness outside.

    ''That''s strangeбн'' his eye narrowed, expression stern. ''Whyбн?''

    That question had been hovering over his head ever since he parted with Cherry. He couldn''t help but recall his brief discussion with her as he remained silent.

    "I do not have an entire night to indulge with you, Countess Lloyd," he spoke the second they entered the sitting room, standing in the middle as he turned around to her who was standing in front of the door. "I hope this is important enough to take a moment of my time."

    Cherry pursed her lips as she took a deep breath. "Your Highness," came out a soft voice, mustering her courage as she advanced in his direction.

    "Please don''t fall for the crown princess'' antics," she warned as soon as she stopped at arm''s length.

    "Oh?" he arched a brow and tilted his head to the side. "What do you mean by that?"

    "Although I had no evidence nor did she admit it herself, she is бк"

    "Stop." Joaquin raised a hand to stop her from talking. "Countess Lloyd, you asked an audience with me to warn me with no solid reason aside from your gut feeling?"

    Heughed, nting his hand on his hips. "I know you, Lady Borges." Joaquin closed the gap between them as he took one step, bending over to see her up close.

    "You sold your home country without batting an eye. Not just thend where you are born and raised, but also, you sacrificed your greedy family as coteral damages," he dawdled, airing the type of character this woman had. "For what? Just to kill one woman, Lady Borges. The woman who made your light dimmer because she''s beautiful in every angle, she was honest for her own good, and she was royalty."

    "You thought you are better than her, but because of your low birth, you don''t get the same attention as her," he continued with a mocking smirk while Cherry lowered her eyes. "Let me tell you, Lady Lloyd. It''s not your low birth that is the problem."

    "Aries was beautiful even if she bes Cherry and you are her, I will still want her the same." Joaquin caressed the side of her neck with his fingertips. "However, she''s dead. I had seen her body myself." бк although Aries'' corpse was already dposing and unrecognizable when they found it about a year ago.

    "But nowбн that someone who looks like her is in our lives again, you want to do the same thing you did to your dearest friend?" heughed as he licked his lips, a little arouse at the sight of this delectable dish who wanted to serve herself to him willingly. "Countess Lloyd, do you know why I let you in the Maganti Empire and approved your citizenship despite being one of the cursed beings of Rikhill?"

    Joaquin leaned closer and whispered in her ear. "It''s because you''re too pathetic to kill."<sub> </sub>

    Cherry''s eyes shook as her shoulder tensed up, holding her breath at his remarks. When she slowly raised her head, she saw him drawing his head back with a ridiculing smirk on his face.

    "It''s fun to see you ogle on something you will never attain until death, Lady Borges!" Joaquinughed maniacally as that was the truth and nothing but the truth. "You might not feel remorse for what you had done to Rikhill, but it''s fun to see someone try their hardest only to realize the crippling reality."

    Joaquin smacked his lips as he enjoyed the expression dominating her beautiful face. Oh, how he enjoyed humiliating someone бк especially, someone who thought they were relevant when they weren''t.

    "You think I am foolish to fall for yourбнme excuse? You came to warn me? And who do you think you are to do that? Do you think someone like you who sold her family, friends, and even her country, out of jealousy is worth listening to?" he crossed his arms and cocked his head to the side. "No, Lady Lloyd. You came in here to seduce me, isn''t that right?"

    Her lips quivered, opening and closing her mouth, but her voice was lost. All she could do was stare at him and that devious smirk, while he was enjoying humiliating her.

    "You should''ve stripped from the beginning and maybe I would reconsider fucking you. However, the more I look at you, although I cannot deny you are quite a catch, my wife is better." He nodded, convinced at his own im. "You''re not blind not to know how elegantly gorgeous she was and her morning look will still look better than you in your best dress."

    "You''re lucky, though," he continued as he raised his brows to give her a knowing look. "The only reason I hadn''t drawn my sword and beheaded you is that my wife is quite fond of you. You also need to give credit to the earl, your husband, since he was a loyal subject of the crown prince."

    "Forget about everything I ordered you to do since I had already figured out what I needed to figure out. Now, if you value your life, get out of my face while I am being kind. My patience isn''t that long, Countess Lloyd, and your death will not matter to anyone. Your husband will find another wife, I will still be the crown prince, and the Maganti will continue to flourish." Joaquin perked his chin towards the door behind her, hinting to her where she should leave.

    Cherry couldn''t even say a word as he not only refused her, but Joaquin humiliated her. After she left while dragging her feet away, Joaquin gazed at the door for a moment before he decided to return to Aries.

    But here he was, just right outside the sitting room, standing in front of the window, deep in thought.

    ''I would''ve tasted her before humiliating her like that if this was before,'' he thought, finding his own action strange since it was out of character. However, even if that crossed his head, it felt like a chore. His excitement for his wife was different and he was satisfied with just her.

    ''I never thought I will ever be satisfied with just one woman,'' he thought, but instead of getting angry, a subtle smile resurfaced on his face. ''Circeбн''

    Joaquin pivoted on his heel, walking away from that spot as he sauntered through the hallway to go back to his wife.

    ''бн this is not good.''

 Chapter 262 Petition To Give Gertrude A Raise

    Joaquin returned to the banquet hall, only to know Aries had already left without waiting for him. He didn''t think much about it as he returned to the Sapphire pce immediately. However, when he arrived in their shared room, just to check on her, Aries wasn''t in the bedroom.

    "Where did she go?" he wondered, marching outside the chambers. Joaquin didn''t ask anyone as he went straight to the other room, which was now being used by Curtis. There was only one ce that Aries would go to if she wasn''t in her room and that was Curtis''s.

    As Joaquin approached the chamber, he caught Gertrude exiting the room while closing the door behind her.

    "Is Circe inside?" he asked, stopping at arm''s length from Aries'' personal maid. Gertrude gazed up before she bowed politely.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    "I see."

    Joaquin was about to take a step to enter the room but stopped when Gertrude blocked his way. He arched a brow, gazing down at her.

    "What are you doing?" he asked in a cold tone.

    "Your Royal Highness, the crown princess is already resting." Gertrude snuck a nced at him and breathed out deeply. Her back broke out in sweats and her knees were trembling in fear and anxiety, but she kept a strong front.

    "If she is resting, why is she resting in this room and not in ours? Moreover, how dare you block my way?"

    "Forgive me for this impudence, Your Royal Highness. Her Highness ordered she didn''t want to see anyone and specified especially the crown prince."

    His brows creased. "Why?"

    "Her highness didn''t say anything, Your Royal Highness. But those were her orders."

    "Nonsense." Joaquin took a step to intrude inside Curtis'' room, only to stop once again when Gertrude blocked his path. "Get out of my face while I am asking nicely."

    "Your Royal Highness, you cannote in."

    "Hahбн" Joaquinughed in ridicule, getting more annoyed and suspicious about what pushed this maid to have the courage to even speak in his presence. "Do you think I won''t kill just because the crown princess favors you?"

    "I think my actions right now are punishable by death, Your Royal Highness." Gertrude''s eyes shook as her heart was pounding against her chest violently. "However, I''d rather die in your hands than let you see Her Highness'' state, which she didn''t want you to see."

    Joaquin narrowed his eyes. "What do you mean?"

    "Her Royal Highness had consumed wine more than she should have, Your Royal Highness." Gertrude hung her head low to hide the fear dominating her face. "And she was inconsble."

    "Inconsble? What happened?"<sub> </sub>

    Gertrude took several seconds before she mustered enough courage to raise her head. Once she did, her fear was reced by slight anger and dismay at the man.

    "I am not in the position to speak about my master''s grievances, Your Royal Highness. However, I had served the crown princess for years and I had never seen her be in such a devastating state." Her jaw tightened, channeling all her fear and anger she had for the crown prince to help the Aries'' ns. "I don''t know what Your Royal Highness did, but if you truly respected the crown princess, please let her rest and gather her thoughts for tonight."

    Joaquin curled his hand into a fist while staring back at this fearless servant who was staring back at him straight in the eye. He would''ve raised his hand or ordered someone to cut her tongue for her audacity.

    But he didn''t. He couldn''t.

    His wife favored this servant, and he gave her his word he wouldn''t touch Gertrude or Curtis. It was easy to go back on his words and justify his action, but for this meek servant who would die for Aries to speak so courageously, there must be a solid reason.

    He gazed at the door, and his eyes shed with worry. Just earlier, Joaquin and Aries were fine. Although they had a moment where they shared a somber atmosphere, it wasn''t enough for Aries to get drunk.

    So, what happened?

    Joaquin pondered about it before realization dawned on him. "Did shee to see me?" he asked without averting his eyes away from the door.

    "The crown princess went to see His Royal Highness when he hadn''t returned to the banquet hall. However, when she returned, she was alone and was emotional." Gertrude heaved a sigh of relief when she sensed Joaquin calmed down. "That''s all I knew, Your Royal Highness."

    When a minute passed and Joaquin was still standing in his spot, Gertrude held onto a lifetime of luck once again.

    "Please, Your Royal Highness. I might have overstepped my bounds and I will ept any punishment, but a brief separation is a wise decision to calm things down. I know the crown princess and she only needed some time to settle her thoughts and emotions," she advised in a now polite tone, desperate for the crown prince to hear her plea. "Talking to her now in a state will only escte her emotions."

    "Damnбн" he breathed out, pinching the bridge of his nose in distress. Joaquin already got the gist of what happened. Aries came to see him, but she probably saw Cherry with him and misunderstood.

    "It''s a misunderstanding," he mumbled, reopening his eyes as he gazed at the door behind Gertrude. He looked at it for some time before his eyes shifted to her.

    "I''ll see her tomorrow," was all he said and didn''t wait for her reply as he pivoted on his heel to walk away.

    As he left, Gertrude''s knees trembled uncontrobly as she held on to her soul from leaving her living body. Her hands reached for anything that could assist her, as she just used a lifetime of luck to block Joaquin''s path. After minutes of trying not to copse, she gazed at the shut doors in distress.

    ''Goodnessбн I''ll die early in this ce.''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Inside Curtis''s room, Abel was chuckling with his lips closed as he was listening to Gertrude''s conversation with Joaquin.

    "Darling, I have a petition." He nodded in satisfaction, gazing at Aries, who was sleeping soundly on the bed beside him. "How about giving her a raise?"

 Chapter 263 Meanies

    Thanks to Conan, who used Aries''s name to his heart''s content to beat sense into Abel, thetter had no choice but to take her to the Sapphire Pce. He would''ve taken Aries to her room and asked Joaquin nicely to give them some space, but Conan made him promise to not do that.

    Aries called the shots in this entire operation and, honestly, Abel was just squeezing himself in the entire n. The only role for him was to be an audience. In other words, he had no right to spoil everything. Those were Conan''s exact words.

    "Now that I think about it, he''s so mean." Abel frowned, lying on his side with his temple propped against his knuckles. He had been caressing Aries''s jaw casually while thinking about how he ended up in this ce instead of taking her to his room, the emperor''s room.

    "But well, my roommate might shock you." He rolled his eyes as he thought that it would be chaos if he kicked the emperor out of the room. A deep exhale slipped past his lips, caressing her cheek affectionately.

    "I didn''t know you were that sad, darling."

    Although Abel was aware Aries would never forget about Rikhill and all the people who died in thatnd, he didn''t know just how much she missed them. He never missed someone бк just recently, it was Aries. If what he felt back then when he was in Haimirich while Aries was in thisnd was how she felt about Rikhill, then no wonder she was crying so much.

    "Give me the pain," he whispered, tracing her brows, then down to her nose ever so slowly. "Just pass it to me. I can take any pain with a smile."

    If Abel could take away her pain, he would''ve snatched it away so she wouldn''t be in despair anymore. He had methods to do that such as wiping her memories, but he didn''t want to wipe out her memory because that was what made Aries.

    The hell they had put her through made her indestructible. Forgetting everyone else but him sounded like a good idea, but he couldn''t cheat her like that.

    "My Aries," another whisper slipped past his lips, moving closer until his forehead was resting over hers. His hand was cupping her cheek, inhaling her deep breaths, which had a faint scent of wine.

    "You''re driving me crazy. Your ns are so slow for my patience," he muttered, closing his eyes to calm his glowing red eyes. "You should marry me after all this. I''ve never been this patient."

    There was a long silence that reigned in the chambers as Abel stayed over her for quite some time. He had been saying, ''if not for Aries,'' often even before she stepped foot in thisnd. Because that was the truth and nothing but the truth.

    This Maganti Empireбн he would''ve erased it from the world map if he was the person calling the shots. But the person they wronged was Aries, so wiping them all out overnight was mercy. They deserved hell бк the unspeakable doom.

    "Darling, love, Iбн"

    Abel trailed off when he heard a faint sound from the slightly opened balcony. He withdrew his head, twisting his neck in the balcony''s direction.

    There, entering the balcony, was a man in a cloak, carrying the unconscious Curtis on his shoulder. The second Abel''s eyesnded on Curtis, the side of his lips stretched from ear to ear.

    "I didn''t know it will be you who will deliver him to me, Marquess." Abel pushed himself away from Aries, but changed his mind and hid her by lowering his body. "You can''t look at her. She''s mine."

    Dexter let out a deep exhale as he pulled down the hood from his head and clicked his tongue in irritation. Abel was looking at him like a child who didn''t want to share a snack, as if Dexter nned on asking for a piece.<sub> </sub>

    "Where do I put this guy?" he asked, ignoring Abel''s childish acts. "I don''t n to stay long."

    "Huh? Why not?"

    "The crown prince is just right outside, do you know that?"

    "I do. He should be thankful I''m not waking up my darling to let him hear her moaning my name."

    "I am not interested in that part of your rtionship, Your Majesty." Dexter let out a helpless exhale as he looked around the room. When he caught the divan, he marched towards it to throw Curtis there to rest since there was only one bed and that emperor would never share it with anyone else but Aries.

    "Wake him up." Dexter stopped at Abel''smand and looked back at him. "That new friend of mine. Wake him up."

    "And why would I do that?"

    "Because I said so?" Abel grinned before he carefully let go of Aries and tucked her in. He flung his legs out of the bed but stayed seated on the edge of the mattress with his palms on either side of him.

    "I need to brief him about our n," he added, while Dexter snickered.

    "You mean my sister''s n?"

    Abel frowned. "You and Conan are so mean. I''m telling you to Aries and tell her she shouldn''t talk with you."

    "What are you? A child?" Dexter shook his head mildly before he nced at the unconscious Curtis on his shoulder. "Lord Isaiah said he should rest since he''ll be throwing up бк"

    He abruptly stopped when Curtis suddenly coughed out the ck liquid like sulfur burning the floor. Dexter clicked his tongue in irritation. If Curtis wasn''t Aries''s dearest friend, he would have thrown him out of the window.

    "Ohбн I knew it." Abel crooned, dragging himself up from his seat, and sauntered towards Dexter. He walked around him with his upper body bent over, eyes on Curtis before it fell on the ck liquid sizzling on the floor.

    "It was a special type of spell." He grinned as he straightened his back, shifting his attention to Dexter. "Isn''t Maganti interesting, Marquess?"

    Dexter''s eyes glinted as he kept a straight facepared to the amused expression stered on the emperor''s face.

    "A bit surprisingбн" he nced at Curtis once again while Abel was poking thetter''s cheek to wake him up. "бн and dangerous to be walking in thend of witches."

 Chapter 264 Good Morning

    "Ughбн"Aries grunted even before opening her eyes, struck by a painful headache that caused all the wires in her head to pulsate. She held her head and sped a portion of her hair, opening an eye. As soon as she did, a pair of deep crimson was hovering over her face with hair as green as the lush meadow.

    "Good morning, darling," Abel greeted with a grin, bending over as he brushed his nose against hers. "You smell poison, but I''m immune, so no problem."

    "Abel, waitбн" she chuckled as she nted her fist over his shoulder. "My head бк"

    Aries suddenly froze as her eyes popped open. She held her breath on instinct, staring at the intricate high ceiling that had the same design as her room.

    "Don''t worry. Your husband isn''t here." Heughed upon noticing her reaction, drawing his head back, only to see her nk expression. "We''re in my dearest friendship''s room."

    "Huh?" she blinked as her brows creased.

    Aries looked to the side and finally recognized the room. However, instead of relief, dread slowly crept up in her heart as she tried to recall what happenedst night.

    "Last nightбн" she gasped, revisiting the sequence of events.

    Last night, after witnessing her husband''s ''infidelity,'' she nned to drink a bit of wine. She only drank two ssfuls of wine before she realized the wine had a strong alcohol level. At first, she thought of drinking more until she copse since she could only think of the worse if she was left intoxicated.

    However, for reasons she didn''t know, she didn''t. She felt safe.

    Aries gazed at the face hovering over her and smiled subtly. His brows rose, but she chuckled in response.

    "Thank you," she expressed under her breath, cupping his leaned cheek. "For having my back."

    His lips curled up as his eyelids drooped until they were partially closed. "You''re wee."

    Aries closed her eyes as he bent over, weing his tender lips. Smiling against his lips, she bit his lower lip teasingly as he drew his head back after three seconds.

    "Your kisses are growing shorter and shorter," sheined with a frown, crawling her arms around his neck. "Don''t you want me anymore?"

    "Of course, I do. However, I''m simply worried you might not fancy being intimate with me with an audience." Abel cocked his head to the side slightly, causing her brows to raise. Aries slowly perked her head to look at where he tilted his head, only for her eyes to dte.

    "Shall we continue?" he teased, pressing his body against hers.

    "Wait бк Curti бк"

    "No, no, no." Abel chuckled as he tickled the side of her neck with the apex of his nose. "Let''s give my new friend a show of a lifetime."

    "Ab бк haha бк stopбн!"

    Aries wiggled underneath him, clutching his shoulders tightly. Her struggle grew desperate as herughter grew louder before he finally stopped.

    "There you go," Abel remarked with a satisfied grin before kissing one of her eyes. "Don''t cry anymore."

    "Huh?" her smile faded as her brows furrowed. "Was I cryingst night?"<sub> </sub>

    "Wellбн" Abel pushed himself off of her before offering his hand to help her get up. "You were, darling. You kept crying while saying you want to marry so so bad you''re in tears."

    She rolled her eyes, reached for his hand, and was pulled up by him. "I doubt."

    "Hah! You don''t want to marry me?" he gasped in dismay, a little offended at her confident answer. "Darling, just what can your damn husband do that I can''t?"

    "Come on, Abel. Why would I cry about that when marriage isn''t as sacred as I thought it was?" Aries chuckled and shook her head lightly, sighing as she raised her chin and set her eyes on Curtis. "I wouldn''t be a married woman now if it is that of a big deal."

    "You wouldn''t be here if it wasn''t a big deal."

    "Make sense, but not in that sense." She cast him a knowing look, ignoring Curtis as he was just sitting on the divan while eating in silence like usual. "We''re already happy as we were. It''s not like there''s a difference if we got married or not."

    "You''re breaking my heart." Abel nted his palms on the mattress as he reclined. "But you''re right. At least you don''t gain the title of a cursed woman for bing a widow twice."

    "Abel," she called with a deep exhale. "Don''t say that. You''re not dying."

    "What if I am?"

    "No, you''re not." She shook her head firmly. "You can''t."

    "Huh?? Darling, all I want in life is to die!" he gasped while her frown deepened, ring daggers at him. "What? Darling? Did I say something wrong?"

    "No, you didn''t, Abel. You said something genius. Good morning to me!" she replied sarcastically while dragging herself out of the bed to join Curtis. Meanwhile, Abel simply shrugged as he didn''t think that would upset her since he thought she already knew about that.

    "Well, good morning to you," he replied, jolting when she looked back at him with a sharp re.

    "One more word, Abel," she wanted fiercely before she stomped her feet and perched beside Curtis. Aries huffed and crossed her arms, ncing at Curtis, who was eating silently like usual.

    "Curtis, did you now understand why I was in distress before?" she frowned, leaning her side to Curtis until her head dramatically fell on hisp. "My husband is having an affair and my lover wants to die."

    Curtis slowly snapped his eyes as he gazed down at her. Aries was resting the side of her head on hisp, staring at the snacks on the coffee table Gertrude had served to Abel and Curtis earlier.

    She sighed. "Menбн they''re cursed beings. They should all just get wiped out, Curtis."

    "Do you wish for me to die as well?"

    "Mhm. Since that is what you wantбн" Aries trailed off when she realized the voice wasn''t Abel. Her eyes slowly went round as she nced in Abel''s direction, only to see him approaching her with a grin.

    "You never changed Aime." She slowly turned her head and her breath instantly hitched when she saw Curtis'' gentle smile hovering over her. He nted his index on top of her forehead.

    "Good morning."

 Chapter 265 Anything For My Darling

    "Good morning."

    For a moment, Aries stared at Curtis'' face hovering over her with nk eyes. When she finally recovered, she sprung up and gasped, her jaw nearly hitting the floor.

    "Hahaбн close your mouth." Curtis chuckled as he ced his palm on her chin to close her mouth. "An insect might enter it."

    "You!" Aries gasped and pointed at him, blinking countless times, and then rubbed her eyes just in case she was seeing things. But Curtis was still smiling at her! And he was also talking like before!

    What was going on?

    "Heheбн darling, dearest, you look funny. I should surprise you more since it seems your reactions are better than Conan''s." Abelughed as he perched on the armchair. He raised a foot and rested his leg over the other, arms draped over the armrest, an amused grin stered across his face.

    "Please don''t do that!!" she answered in horror even before she could think about it, casting Abel a quick look before she set her eyes back on Curtis. "Curtis, you бк what бк I mean, how?"

    Curtis smiled amicably and shrugged. "ck magic."

    "What?" her nose scrunched up before she jumped mildly to sit closer to him. "Curtis, how? Why? I mean бк I бк"

    Aries held his shoulder, bobbing her face to examine him. It was a miracle. Although Curtis had shown significant progress recently, it wasn''t this drastic! What happened overnight?

    "Am I still drunk?" she gasped, looking down as she tilted her head to the side. "Goshбн this feels too real."

    "Ahhбн how cute." Abel mused as he admired her while her brain was on the brink of overheating.

    Curtis chuckled as he poked her head with his index lightly. "It''s not a dream, Aime." Aries slowly raised her head, only to still see Curtis smiling, speaking, and just having life in his eyes instead of just staring nkly.

    "You were crying so muchst night that even the dead will wake up. I can''t say I am fully healed and I''m still vulnerable, but at least, I regained my voice. It''s a miracle." He smiled to hide away theme reason behind his drastic recovery. Curtis knew Aries and how her brain worked.

    Aries would believe in miracles and corny things such as the power of love or will, but she wouldn''t believe in things that she called myths. Unless Curtis and Abel spend a day listing down how this all happened.

    "Curtisбн"

    Tears swam in her eyes as she bit her quivering lower lip as hard as she could. She couldn''t believe this and even though his exnation didn''t make sense, it actually didn''t matter. This was the Curtis she knew and not the person who would bark at someone''s behest.<sub> </sub>

    "I''m sorryбн" came out of her lips as tears rolled down her cheeks, squeezing his shoulder lightly. "I''m sorryбн"

    That was all she could say as she hung her head low, resting the top of her head against his chest. His lips curled up as his eyes softened, patting the back of her shoulder lightly to console her from crying.

    "I''m sorryбн what they did to youбн to Rikhillбн to everyoneбн I''m sorryбн" she expressed in between her hups, unable to stop her tears as the memories of when she first saw Curtis in this empire shed in her head. She could never forget that and it sometimes haunt her in her sleep.

    The barking Curtis, the time he would put his hand on Joaquin''s hand like a dog, and everything. Until today, that haunted Aries in her sleep and fueled her anger toward the crown prince. Still, deep in her heart, there was a small part of her that thought even if she killed Joaquin, the damage to Curtis was irreparable.

    So her tears mostly came from guilt and relief.

    "It''s not your fault." His soft smile remained as he continued to pat the back of her shoulder. "I''m not everyone''s spokesperson, but I didn''t just fight for you. I fought for my queen, my homnd, my family, and I regret nothing even if my fate in losing was unspeakable."

    Curtis watched her slowly raise her head only to reveal the ugly cry stered on it. "The hell they put us throughбн it''s not your fault. You''re not the one who did all those atrocities to me or to our great country. Don''t apologize to me. I''m simply d you''re fine and found great people."

    "I''ve always known you will emerge from this stronger. Thank you for not forgetting us, Your Highness." Curtis slowly reached for her hand and held it with both his hand, guiding it to his forehead as he closed his eyes. "Thank you for fighting for us until now. I''m sure everyone is just as d that you survived and thrived."

    "Curtisбн" Aries chewed her bottom lip as she watched Curtis retract his head from her knuckles and return her gaze with a smile.

    "Please do not cry anymore." He wiped her tears with his thumb gently. "I''m certain everyone is in a better ce now. The pastбн bad times create strong people and strong people create good times. What matters now is that we''re both fine and alive and we can still do something."

    Curtis raised his brows as he looked her straight in the eye. "Please do not me yourself anymore. Fighting for your people and us fighting alongside you isn''t your fault. It''s a decision we made and we took pride in it."

    "Godбн" Aries held his hand to her cheek, closing her eyes, and another tear rolled down her cheek. "It''s really youбн I''m so dбн"

    His lips stretch mildly as he stared at her. The Aries he knew was fierce, savage, but inspiring. That was why many looked up to a woman like her. Although Curtis knew she changed and she was not like the Aries he had known, бк giving him this restlessness in his heart бк Aries was stronger than ever, that was for sure.

    "Thank you," Curtis shifted his eyes to Abel on the armchair near them, whose eyes never left Aries. Abel only took his eyes off of Aries when Curtis expressed his gratitude. "Thank you for helping us, Your Majesty."

    Aries slowly reopened her puffy eyes as she turned her neck in Abel''s direction only to see him wink.

    "Don''t mention it." His lips stretched from ear to ear. "Anything for my darling."

 Chapter 266 Are You Having An Affair With My Lady-In-Waiting?

    Aries didn''t probe anymore about how Curtis recovered overnight. It was strange, but she gave him the benefit of the doubt that it was because his will to recover brought his voice back. It was ame excuse, but Curtis had been trying to call her name with great difficulty.

    Moreover, she didn''t have the time to investigate or interrogate him since she couldn''t dy the build-up she createdst night. The n must go on and Aries needed to be there since she was the one who was holding the steer.

    So, after several minutes, Gertrude arrived in Curtis'' room to fetch Aries and prepare her for the day. Abel had already told her about how Gertrude stood up to Joaquinst night, forbidding him from entering the room.

    "Thank you, Gertrude." Aries smiled subtly as Gertrude brush her hair while the crown princess was sitting on the stool in front of the vanity mirror. "Abel told me what you didst night. It must''ve scared you."

    Gertrude sported a meek smile. "I was scared, Your Highness. But I also knew His Majesty will not let me die unjustly."

    "Mhm." Aries''s eyes softened at the thought of Abel, feeling this surge of warmth in her heart. "He''s reliable at times."

    "I''m d that you feel better now, mydy."

    Aries nced up at her but said nothing. Gertrude came in the room with Aries still crying, but she didn''t know Curtis had recovered. Neither did Gertrude probe what happened early in the morning.

    ''I feel bad, but it''s better if no one knows about Curtis'' condition.'' She thought, agreeing to Curtis'' request. He said he hadn''t recoveredpletely and even though he had retrieved his voice, his body still needed rehabilitation to move like before.

    "Your Highness, the crown prince invites you to breakfast." Gertrude snapped Aries back from her thoughts. "He said he will wait for you."

    This time, Aries''s soft eyes were reced with nothing but coldness. She gazed at herself in front of the mirror, holding the ne Abel gave her, caressing it with her thumb.

    "My eyes were swollenбн" she pointed out, as she couldn''t stop her tears this morning.

    "They look like the eyes of a woman who faced betrayal, Your Highness."

    Aries''s lips curled up into a sneer as she nced at Gertrude. She didn''t expect that reply, but Gertrude was growing courageous. Well, she couldn''t me her personal maid, as Aries''s activities were forcing the poor Gertrude to have a heart of steel if she wanted to survive longer.

    "You''re slowly picking things up, Gertrude." She praised. "Abel said he would go on a strike if I didn''t give you a raise."

    Aries chuckled and Gertrudeughed weakly while thetter continued to arrange the crown princess''s hair. As usual, Gertrude did her best to doll Aries up so Joaquin would see <strong>''what he was losing.''</strong> Right after Aries was finished going through her usual morning routine, she was escorted to the dining hall.

    Sitting on the other end of the rectangr table, Arie kept silent as she ate breakfast. She had been silent even when Joaquin arrived minutes after her and perched on the other end of the table opposite her.

    "Circe," he called, but she ignored him. Her eyes were swollen even if makeup concealed it, it was a futile attempt. Anyone could tell she cried herself to sleep. A deep exhale escaped his mouth, pushing himself up.

    Aries slowly raised her eyes when Joaquin sat down on the chair on her right. The sight of her rendered him speechless as she looked so vulnerable he simply wanted to embrace and protect her.

    "Circe, my crown princess, and wife." He reached for her hand, eyes on her. "Is there something wrong we should talk about?"<sub> </sub>

    "Nothing, Your Royal Highness." Her expression, despite her swollen eyes, was stern. "There is nothing that is worthy of your concern, Your Royal Highness."

    "Not worthy of my concern?" heughed weakly before he dragged his chair closer to her. Joaquin helped her let go of the cutleries and faced her squarely.

    "My wife, how can you say that? How is it not worthy of my concern when your eyes were swollen and you don''t want to talk to me?" He breathed out, raising his hand to cup her cheek while brushing it with his thumb. "I am your husband, so I care Circe. Communicate with me."

    ? Aries pressed her lips as her eyes lowered. "Are you... having an affair with mydy-in-waiting?" came out an almost muffled voice.

    "No." Joaquin denied almost instantly, as he had guessed this was her primary concern and he simply didn''t want to jump to a conclusion.

    "Are you sure?"

    "Circe." He pinched her chin and raised it so he could look her in the eye. "Was there something Countess Lloyd had that you do not have?"

    "Yes, Joaquin." Ariesughed bitterly. "A beauty will never win against a flirt and temptations aren''t called temptations when it''s something one wouldn''t want. Don''t make a fool out of me, Joaquin. I warned you before. If you''re going to have an affair, make sure you do it somewhere I will not see."

    "Circe, love."

    "Love?" sheughed in ridicule, snatching her hand away from him. "You don''t love me, Joaquin. You needed me, but you don''t love me. Because if you do, you will never enter a room with another woman while your wife is out there waiting for you."

    Aries shook her head in disbelief as she pushed her chair and stood up. But just as she took a step, a hand grabbed her wrist and stopped her. Joaquin slowly stood from behind her, his grip around her wrist trembled.

    "You''re right. I don''t love you and simply needed you," he whispered, embracing her from behind as he bent over until his forehead was on her shoulder. "That''s also what I thought, Circe. However, these past weeks with you... is different. Without me realizing it, I will subconsciously look on my side to check if you were still there."

    "You''re the woman I married for mutual benefits. I admit I expect nothing from you, but... your sincerity, your grace, your intellect, I think they''re beautiful, and I only realizedst night while I was thinking about you, you''re more important to me than you and I thought," he continued under his breath and this time, he was speaking from his heart. "Please listen to me, my wife. Give me a chance to exin."

    Aries hung her head low before the side of her lips slowly curled up, eyes sparkling with amusement. But all that disappeared in a second when Joaquin let her go and held her shoulder to spin her until they were facing each other.

    "If I am just as important to you, please hear me out," he requested solemnly, staring at her in the eye. "It''s all just a misunderstanding."

    Her lips opened and closed, but no voice came out. All she could do for a moment was stare into him before she sighed deeply, rocking her head.

    "Lie to me and that''s it, Joaquin," she warned weakly, but he smiled and nodded.

    "I won''t. I promise."

 Chapter 267 [Bonus Chapter]Reconciled

    Aries and Joaquin had a heart-to-heart talk like what a married couple would do to settle an issue. She listened to his exnation and, as expected, Joaquin told her the truth. Or rather... the truth he wanted her to believe, just to paint him as a saint while Cherry was a seductress.

    "Am I off the hook now?" he inquired as he held her hand, sitting around the rectangr dining table.

    "You didn''t touch her?" she asked, brushing across his fingertips. "Not even with your fingertips?"

    He chuckled and shook his head. "Not even the slightest."

    "Really? Joaquin, I will definitely deliver you to hell if you are lying."

    "You''re keen enough to know if I am lying or not."

    Aries opened her mouth but closed it again. His smile stretched broader slightly, pulling her hand until they were on his thigh.

    p "I will dismiss Countess Lloyd for seducing the crown prince."</anda>

    "Don''t." She shook her head, causing his brows to elevate. "Even though Countess Lloyd tried to covet my husband, dismissing her will put a bad light on the crown princess''s name."

    "That is why I will do it, Circe." Joaquin sighed, knowing it was easier for him to dismiss Cherry since everyone would believe him. His wife might''ve left a strong impression on the high society, but with one wrong step, things would change. Her foothold wasn''t that ''solid'' just yet.

    "It''s fine, Joaquin." Aries forced a smile as her eyes studied his charming face. "I''m simply d it wasn''t as terrible as I thought it was. Thank you for thinking of me, Joaquin. I deeply appreciate it."

    She cupped his cheek as her eyes softened. "But you know me, husband. I don''t give out forgiveness so easily; you''re the only exception." He smiled at her remark, as he felt special in a way.

    "Dismissing her is mercy. I want her to stay," she added while he rocked his head.

    Joaquin gazed at her expression and caught the glint that flickered across her eyes. In a way, he was pleased how she looked at him differently, while her eyes would grow sharper if she was thinking of someone else. Surely, his wife only had soft spots for those who were close to her heart, and he was one of the very few people.

    What an honor.

    "Don''t kill her," he remarked while she giggled.

    "Death is mercy, husband." Aries raised her chin as the side of her lips curled up into a cunning sneer. "That is not how I y. You know me."

    "I know... that is why there''s no way you will capture my heart if you don''t have a perfect bnce." The corner of his lips curled up as he raised her hand to his lips, nting a peck on her knuckles while keeping his eyes on her. "No woman will ever match you."

    "It''s a lie if you know or met someone who is like me." She shrugged confidently before shing him a sweet and stunning smile. "I''m d my husband is aware of that."

    ***

    After Joaquin and Aries reconciled, he walked her to her chancery for thest touches of her charity projects in the east ninth district. It was as though nothing happened as they were sweeter than ever, walking hand in hand, talking about the uing hunting season.<sub> </sub>

    But Aries didn''t have the time to enjoy her aplishment today because as soon as they arrived at the crown princess''s chancery, Inez was waiting for her. Well, it wasn''t like she didn''t expect this.

    "Thank you for walking me here." She faced Joaquin and straightened his suit. Joaquin nced at Inez who was standing in the same hallway, several feet from the two of them.

    "Why is she here?" he wondered, returning his attention back to his wife.

    "I don''t know, but it''s probably about the east ninth district since the ninth princess had been assisting me." She shed him a reassuring smile before she retrieved her hand from him. "Have a great day, Your Royal Highness."

    "Don''t be so distant." He chuckled, taking a step back and offering his hand. "May I?"

    Her lips curled up as she ced her hand on his palm. "Of course."

    "I''ll see what I can do and pick you up so we can return to the Sapphire Pce together." Joaquin bent over, nting a peck on her knuckles while keeping his eyes on her. "Have a great day, Circe."

    "You too, Joaquin."

    Aries bit her lower lip as she retrieved her hand from him. They looked at each other for a minute before sheughed weakly, like a teenager in love, pivoting on her heel as she sauntered through the hallway in high spirits. Meanwhile, Joaquin remained in his spot for a moment and simply stared at her back with a subtle smile.

    ''Inez,'' he thought as he peeled his eyes away from her and walked in the opposite direction. ''I don''t like the attention she''s giving to my wife.''

    <strong>****</strong>

    At the entrance of the crown princess'' chancery, Inez performed a curtsy when Aries stood in front of her. Usually, people wouldn''t be in this hallway, but she was royalty. So, Aries wasn''t surprised she was in here.

    "Good day, ninth princess," Aries greeted as she sported a smile before she nced at the door when it opened from the inside. "Come inside, ninth sister."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Inez kept her demure in check as she followed Aries''s track. As she did so, she nced to her right as she passed through the door, eyes falling on Cherry, who was standing on the side with her head hung low.

    She snickered, catching Cherry''s attention. But she said nothing as she followed Aries, sitting on the armchair in the middle of the office while Aries perched on the long settee.

    "Lady Lloyd?" Aries called, raising her chin at Cherry, who was acting strangely timid today.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness?"

    "Served us some tea and snacks and tell everyone who wants to have an audience with me to return once the season ends," Aries ordered, which Cherry executed politely before thetter walked away to prepare the tea and snacks for the royalty. But just as Cherry was by the door, she froze when she heard Inez''s remarks.

    "I hope my surprise visit doesn''t inconvenience you, Your Royal Highness. I was simply concerned after what you had seenst night in the west wing of the Lazuli Pce."

 Chapter 268 [Bonus Chapter]Everyone Had Stepped Foot On The Webs She Weaved

    "I hope my surprise visit doesn''t inconvenience you, Your Royal Highness. I was simply concerned after what you had seenst night in the west wing of the Lazuli Pce."

    Cherry held her breath as she discreetly looked in where the crown princess and the ninth princess were sitting. Her heart pounded against her chest when Inez nced back while Aries cast Cherry a quick look.

    ''She knew...'' The dominant part of her brain already whispered a woman''s gut feeling, but there was a small part of her telling her it might''ve been a coincidence. Thus, Cherry forced her feet and tried her very best to act naturally.

    When the faint click from the door caressed Aries''s ears, she slowly set her eyes back to Inez. Thetter was still looking in the shut door, smirking as if Cherry wronged her.

    "Ninth sister, may I know the real purpose of your visit?" she asked, waiting for Inez to return her gaze.

    Inez let out a deep exhale as she studied the distant look in Aries''s eyes. "Last night..." she paused, clearing her throat as she pondered about her next words for the umpteenth time.

    Why was she here? Aries already knew that. Inez was there to check on her since Aries just left, just like thatst night. It was out of pure concern бк no matter how hard Inez denied it.

    "Ninth sister." Aries smiled when the silence passed for a minute. "I''m d that you came to check up on me, but as you saw, Joaquin and I reconciled. Last night was simply a huge misunderstanding."

    "Misunderstanding..." Inezughed weakly as she leaned back, lowering her eyes to hide the ridicule in them. "And you believe it?"

    "Yes."

    "Hah... is that so?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she let out a deep exhale. "Does it matter whether or not it''s the truth?" she asked, waiting for Inez to raise her head before she added in a soft tone. "If my husband says it was simply a misunderstanding, then it''s a misunderstanding. I should trust his words бк I have to. The only thing I can do is keep a close eye on mydy-in-waiting."

    "You know that''s not the only thing you can do --"

    "That is the only thing I can do, ninth sister," she repeated sternly. "Men... see women as different dishes. The wives are the main courses бк their favorites бк but eating the same dish every day can be tiring. Thus, they needed to taste different dishes every once in a while."

    "It was degrading and sickening, but that is the reality," she continued while her lips curled bitterly. "When a man was having an affair, it''s normal and, most of the time, justified. The women just need to be understanding and smile through all of it."

    "So you''re saying you will simply smile and pretend that''s fine?"

    "What should I do?" Aries returned. "Fool around with men? Sabotage my husband? Strain my rtionship with him and lose the little power I had in my grasp? Ninth sister, I am very much aware of my disposition in this great country and I can''t mess things up while I am in the process of establishing my power."

    Aries let out a deep exhale as she caressed the armrest before she stood up ever so slowly. She sauntered towards the window, keeping her poise as she stopped in front of it. Her eyes fell on the garden before her focus shifted to Inez''s faint reflection.<sub> </sub>

    "The matter of the heart... it doesn''t matter. I admit I am hurt to see my husband anddy-in-waiting sneaking behind my back, but the pain is not because I cherished him. I was insulted." Her voice was low and soft, with a touch of slight anger. "Not only did I sacrifice my surname and the life I used to live, but I also sacrificed things no one knew about."

    "That was the source of my tears, sister. To sacrifice things; my name, my life, my heart, and everything, only to meet with betrayal. Therefore, I loathed men," she added with utter conviction, turning around to face Inez once again. This time, however, Aries smiled affectionately at her.

    "You don''t know how I appreciate your gesture, Inez." Bitterness filled her eyes as she averted her eyes to hide what Inez already saw; longing.

    "It would''ve been nice if you were..." she trailed off as she chuckled weakly, forcing a smile as she raised her eyes at her once again. "... never mind. Please don''t mind my remarks. I must''ve lost my mind for a minute."

    Inez balled her hand, sping her skirt as she watched Aries walk back to her seat across from her. Just now... Aries wanted to say something but stopped.

    ''I can rte,'' she thought, clenching her teeth secretly, which caused her jaw to tighten. ''It was unspeakable'' бк to get attracted to someone of the same gender. Those who were reported with such a ''problem'' were ostracized or considered possessed by the devil, hence, must be stoned to death.

    "Although I was trying to be fine, I am now, Inez." Inez suddenly froze when she heard her name from Aries''s lips, knowing thetter never addressed her by her name. "Oh, is that alright to call you by your first name? You can call me Circe."

    Aries chuckled as she watched Inez raise her head, only to reveal the slight surprise stered on her face.

    "I''m alright as long as someone cares for me. I hope you visit me frequently since my schedule had already told me visiting the Lazuli Pce will be impossible for the entire season," she humored in a much lighter tone to liven up the somber mood in the chancery. "It would be less distressing to have you by my side every once in a while, Inez."

    Inez simply gazed at Aries and replied with a timid smile. She didn''t say anything since she had nothing else to say. Aries''s actions and decisions were all logical since the crown princess was in a position she needed to tread on thin ice. She was also someone whose life heavily rely on Joaquin until she fully established her power бк if Aries was sessful.

    Still, this left a bitter taste in Inez''s mouth. Did that mean she would keep Cherry around? Even though herdy-in-waiting was a snake who caused her woes?

    knock knock...

    As Inez was wondering about the disheartening environment Aries would have to endure, a faint knock from the door caressed her ears. That very second, Inez came to a conclusion. She slowly twisted her neck to the entrance and when her eyesnded on Cherry, a wicked idea crossed the ninth princess''s mind.

    ''This snake... will pay.''

    While Cherry pushed the trolley tray full of snacks and tea set, Aries arched a brow as she darted her eyes between Inez and Cherry. Her eyes then moved to the lone candle lit on the stand in the corner of the room. Her gaze followed the thin smoke ascending and had been filling the room with no one noticing. The side of her lips curled up for a split second.

    ''I''ve been looking forward to this.''

 Chapter 269 The Day Of The Hunt

    "Inez."

    "Inez..."

    "I... nez..."

    Inez gasped for air as her eyes popped open, clutching the sheet as she was on her elbow. She was sweating buckets, herplexion pale, and blood pumping through her veins twice faster than usual.

    "I hate this," she whispered when she recovered slightly, closing her eyes as she copsed back on the bed. When she reopened her eyes and gazed at the high ceiling, she breathed out sharply through her mouth.

    "I hate her," she added, but the emotions in her eyes said otherwise.

    Ever since she visited Aries after the opening banquet for the season, she had been having ''nightmares.'' She would constantly dream of Aries and hear her voice calling her name over and over and over that even during the day, she would zone out.

    "Don''t misunderstand her." Inez ced her arm over her eyes while her other hand crept to her chest and clutched it. "Circe... stop giving me mixed signals. I''m not... like that. I''m not a freak."

    Knock knock...

    "Your Highness, are you awake?"

    Inez remained silent even when she heard her personal maid outside the door. When she peeked through her one eye, she finally gave permission to the maid to enter, which thetter did. Carrying a basin and ewer to wash the ninth princess''s face, the servant ced it on top of the stand while Inez was lying t on the bed.

    "Where is it?" she asked, making the servant turn her gaze on her with her brows raised. "The trinket I made the other day."

    The servant smiled as she walked over to the desk in the corner of the chambers before she returned and stood beside the bed.

    "Here, Your Highness." The servant offered the handmade trinket Inez had been crafting for two days. It was no secret that Inez was one of the best princesses the empire could offer. Her contribution warranted her liberty of choosing a partner she fancied.

    However, Inez fancied no man бк although many tried. But since she had been busy crafting a trinket meticulously and delicately, everyone in the Lazuli Pce was thrilled.

    Why? Because in the empire, every hunting season,dies would give out handkerchief or trinket to the man they fancied or the knight of their choosing as a lucky charm to bring them their hunts. It had also been an indirect method of confessing or answering someone''s feelings. Thus, the season had also be a season for love and not just for hunting.

    In other words, everyone in the Lazuli Pce could already hear imaginary bells ringing.

    Inez held the trinket that had abination of purple and light pink бк verydylike colors and the colors that were not her cup of tea. But her eyes softened as she gazed at the trinket she made herself for reasons she couldn''t understand.

    "It looks likevender and hibiscus..." she whispered as that was what she had in mind when making the trinket.

    Avender scent that had been the brand of the crown princess. Just the whiff of it and she would know Aries was just around the corner. The hibiscus, on the other hand, represented... the giver was acknowledging the receiver''s delicate beauty.

    "What am I thinking?" she breathed out sharply as her hand that was holding the trinket copsed to her side. "I think I''ve lost my mind at making such a stupid thing."<sub> </sub>

    <strong>*********</strong>

    Later that day...

    "And Joaquin?" Aries turned to Climaco, the captain of the second squadron in charge of the crown princess''s safety.

    "His Highness gave a word. He wille into your tent after his meeting with the officials."

    She rocked her head, fixing the wristband. She nced at the knight before she waved.

    "I wille out before the event begins."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Climaco bowed with his fist across his chest and left the crown princess tent without saying a word. Aries kept her mouth shut before she cocked her head, hands on her hip, eyes on Curtis. Gertrude and Curtis would stay in the crown princess''s tent while Aries would take part in the hunt.

    "Are you sure you''ll be fine in here?" she asked Curtis, who was sitting on the oak chair before ncing at the entrance of the tent. "Although no one will touch you while I was gone, things can still be very dangerous."

    "It''s alright." Curtis smiled warmly. "Gertrude will be with me."

    "We should let her know about your condition," Aries suggested, but he simply shook his head. "Why? Gertrude is nice, and she really cares for you бк for us. We can trust her."

    "Aime." Curtis let out a weak sigh as he gazed up at Aries. It wasn''t unusual to see her in a man''s outfit and her hair tied up in a high ponytail. What Curtis wouldn''t get used to were the color of her hair and her aura бк- she just felt different. Even if her face was the same with a fake beauty mark, it wasn''t enough to connect her to the Aries he knew.

    Aries felt like a different person from the look in her eyes, her aura, demure, the way she talked, and everything. He couldn''t me the people in the Maganti if they had fallen for this disguise. It felt too realistic not to believe what they could see and feel.

    "It''s not a matter of trust. I know you trust your personal maid and I do, too. I think she''s a good person who only bore goodwill, but it''s safer if she only knew a little," he exined after several seconds of studying Aries, sporting a meek smile to reassure her. "It''s not like it will make a difference if she knew or not. Moreover, it бк"

    Curtis abruptly stopped when Aries put a finger in front of her lips. She then walked towards him. Standing before him, Aries raised her hand and ruffled his hair.

    "Wish me luck, Curtis." He looked at her and blinked twice and, from his peripheral vision, he noticed shadows outside the entrance of the tent.

    "Your Highness, the ninth princess is here and requests an audience," Climaco announced from the outside.

    The side of her lips curled up into a smirk as she exchanged looks with Curtis. Thetter was rather amused at how keen she had be and how different she was when it was just the two of them, and when she was in the presence of the enemies.

    Aries would just be an entirely different person.

    "Come in," Aries ordered and her eyes glinted, retrieving her hand from Curtis while facing the entrance. A gentle smile reced her smirk when her eyesnded on the stunning Inez.

 Chapter 270 How Affair Starts

    "Greetings to the crown princess."

    Inez curtsied politely after seeing Aries retrieve her hand from Curtis''s head. When Aries told her to rise, she straightened her back and watched Aries saunter towards the small table inside this huge tent.

    She gazed at Curtis for a moment. She heard about Curtis now under the crown princess'' wing, but for her, he was nothing but a dog who was lucky to find a good owner. Therefore, she ignored him.

    "Take a seat, Inez." Aries motioned her hand while dragging the chair before she sat down. "Gertrude, my servant, wasn''t here to serve us tea. So, it might take time before I can serve you some tea."

    "It''s alright, Your Royal Highness. I simply came to wish you luck since this is your first hunting season." Inez offered a smile, clutching her skirt under the table as she sat down across from Aries. Her eyes lingered on the crown princess''s jaw and then her slender neck.

    ''She''s beautiful even when she wears a man''s clothes,'' she thought and when she realized it, Inez mentally shook her head. ''What are you thinking, Inez?''

    "Thank you, Inez." Aries smiled in appreciation. "I''m a little nervous since I might not hunt down at least a boar and be aughingstock."

    "How can that be? I heard you were an excellent archer in Haimirich. Everyone is looking forward to your performance."

    "How pressuring." Sheughed, but show confidence in her aura. "I haven''t held a bow and arrow ever since I got married, so I might find it difficult."

    Inez raised her gaze and saw Aries staring at her hand bitterly. "Was this one of the sacrifices you made for this marriage, Your Royal Highness?" she blurted out before she covered her lips the second realization dawned on her.

    "It''s alright, Inez." Aries chuckled as she clutched her hand. "You can say it was one of the things I sacrificed, and I never thought I will ever hold a bow and arrow again. That is why I had been looking forward to this day."

    She lifted her chin and sported a relieved and excited grin, an expression Inez hadn''t seen on the crown princess'' face. Thetter looked so happy and it was relieving to see her be in high spirits.

    "Anyway, I thought you will join? I heard the ninth princess always dominates the hunting season, along with her brothers." Aries changed the subject smoothly with a kind smile.

    "I thought of taking a rest this season."

    "Why? Was there something wrong?"

    "No. It''s nothing like that."

    "Are you sure?"

    "Yes." Inez smiled and secretly let out a deep exhale. "I had been taking part in the hunt and I had been thinking of taking a break this year. I also want to focus on the outdoor banquets."

    Aries crawled her hand over the table, raising her brows to hint at her to let her hold her hand. She waited patiently before Inez reluctantly ced her hand over hers.

    "Thank you, Inez." She expressed as she curled her hand around Inez''s trembling and sweating palms. "If not for you, I wouldn''t have the opportunity to join the hunt, since I will be busy throwing outdoor banquets. I really appreciate you."

    "It''s notбн"

    "Even if that is not your intention, I will still thank you." Aries squeezed her hand and smiled. "Because of you, I don''t get overwhelmed with a lot of things. That''s whyбн"

    Sheughed and bit her lower lip, letting go of Inez''s hand as she slipped her hand inside her blouse. When Aries took out a handkerchief, Inez''s eyes dted when the crown princess ced it atop her palm.<sub> </sub>

    "Your Royal Highness." Her breath hitched as she gazed up with surprise dominating her face.

    In the Maganti empire, giving out handkerchiefs was an act of professing their heart while a trinket meant admiration.

    "Hahбн please don''t be surprised." Aries chuckled at the sight of her expression. "I nned to make a trinket and give it to you to express my appreciation for your help until now. But my hands were full and only I can prepare a handkerchief."

    "Youбн"

    "Don''t look at me like that." Aries smiled awkwardly as if she expected a more positive reaction. "It''s not what you think it is."

    She cleared her throat and forced to keep a smile, drawing her body back. "I''m sorry if that made you feel ufortable," she remarked, avoiding Inez''s eyes before she mustered enough courage to face her.

    "Anyway, I am still preparing. I бк I бк" Ariesughed when she couldn''tplete her sentence, pping her thigh before she sprung up to her seat nervously. Her eyes instantlynded on Curtis and she smiled before turning her head to the ninth princess.

    "I will be on my way, ninth sister."

    Aries sighed helplessly before she dragged her feet towards the entrance in a hurry, biting her lip in distress. But when she was by the entrance, her steps halted as her brows rose.

    "Wait, Your Royal Highness!" Inez bit her tongue but shook her head as she stood up and approached her. "My apologies. I was simply surprised since I didn''t expect to receive such a kind gesture."

    Aries slowly turned around, only to reveal a conflicted expression. Inez smiled as she heaved a deep sigh before taking out a trinket from the sleeve of her dress.

    "I actually came to give you this." Inez handed the trinket she made for Aries and smiled subtly, gazing at it as she couldn''t look her in the eye. "I had always admired your beauty and elegance, so I want to wish you luck on your first hunt."

    It took an entire minute for Inez to raise her head when Aries didn''t respond. Her heart instantly swelled with warmth as soon as her eyes caught the appreciation in the crown princess''s eyes.

    "It''s lovely." Aries picked up the trinket from her palm, raising her eyes at her. "Thank you, Inez. It feels like this charm repels all my anxiety."

    "Please, put it on me." She nodded encouragingly, watching Inez take a step forward. Thetter''s hand trembled as she attached the trinket to Aries''s waistband, sensing this tension between them that made her heart skip a beat.

    When Inez gazed up, Aries was still staring at her. Thetter bit her inner lip and balled her hand into a fist to stop herself from holding her. However, when Inez didn''t flinch, Aries hesitatingly continued and tucked a portion of the princess'' hair behind her ear.

    "Lovely." Her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, jaw falling slightly open, caressing her cheek with her thumb. "Thank you, Inez."

    "It''s nothing, as long as you keep yourself safe." Inez, for the first time, expressed her heart as she held Aries''s wrist. "May you enjoy this season, Your Royal Highness."

    "I never thought I would, but nowбн I''m certain I will," came out a seductive voice, exchanging a smile with the beautiful Inez, who gazed at her with the same desire in her eyes.

    Meanwhile, Curtis, who was treated like a piece of furniture, watched how the start of an affair unfurl. He could not help but gaze at Aries and sigh. Inez''s back was facing him.

    ''His Majesty didn''t seem to be the type of person who enjoyed sharing under any circumstance. I wonder why he was letting Aime seduce everyone and seed?''

 Chapter 271 Counting Debts Like Counting Stars

    "I am pleased that you made it, Baron Albe!"

    "How dare I not appear when His Royal Highness invited me himself?"

    Abel smiled as he straightened his back after greeting Joaquin, who had just exited his tent along with several men. Joaquin chuckled and introduced him to a few of his people before they headed to the tform, where they would all gather before the start of the hunt.

    "Are you alright, Baron Albe?" asked Joaquin as he walked side by side with Abel, giving him special treatment while the rest of his people were walking a step behind them. His eyes nced up and gazed at the green hair that was neatly brushed back.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness," Abel replied, snapping the crown prince from his thoughts regarding Abel''s green hair. "I was simplyбн counting."

    "Counting?"

    "It''s one of my hobbies." Abel looked ahead, ignoring the men and women around in this vast expanse near the forest situated at the back of the imperial pce.

    p "Your hobby is counting?" Joaquin asked in a light tone, chuckling, as this businessman was surely peculiar.</anda>

    "It''s part of my life since I need to make sure no one cheats me," Abel exined as he cast Joaquin a side-eye, tapping his temple lightly.

    "That is interesting." Joaquin rocked his head. "So, what were you counting on your head?"

    "People''s debtбн and the sort." A friendly smile dominated Abel''s face as he held his hand behind him, casting Joaquin a knowing look. "I always count Your Royal Highness. Like how I count the stars, I count people''s debt. I need to keep track of certain things personally."

    "Haha! That''s right. People are quite cunning and shameless when ites to money. Leave them unattended, and they will flee."

    Abel kept his smile as he took a deep breath, but kept silent. He didn''t mean money, but well, Joaquin would be horrified at what sort of debt he had been counting in his head.

    "But that''s not the purpose of the hunting season. We hunt to relieve our stress and have fun." Joaquin added in a light tone, keeping his chin up as they approached the crowd of men and women. "I hope it will help you take some concerns off of your mind."

    "I hope." Abel tilted his head down slightly as they stopped in the farthest part from the raised tform. As they idled, both Abel and Joaquin looked around in search of a certain someone.

    It wasn''t an exaggeration that the hunting season was also a season for men and women to express their hearts. Many, around the vast green expanse, were females giving out trinkets or handkerchiefs to noblemen or knights. They would attach the trinket or wrap the handkerchief in their weapon''s handle or just anywhere in the men''s hunting suits.

    Seeing this warm atmosphere unfold before their eyes, Abel''s and Joaquin''s eyes glinted. There was a reason for Joaquin to look forward or expect his wife would hand him a trinket or handkerchief since they were a couple.

    Abel, on the other hand, was envious of everyone''s disy of affection. Thus, he was looking forward to his dearest darling doing the same thing to himбнpletely forgetting he was the third party in here.<sub> </sub>

    As the two were silently searching for Aries, their attention shifted to the voiceing from their side. They twisted their neck on instinct, and Joaquin immediately smirked.

    "What a good weather for a hunt, crown prince!" Ismael strutted towards Joaquin and his entourage with his arms spread wide. "My mood instantly shot up at the sight of the revered crown prince who will lead this season''s hunt."

    "I didn''t know you were taking part, third brother." Joaquin faced his brother, holding his hand behind him. "I''m also pleased to see you."

    "Well, I cannot miss such an auspicious asion, can I?"

    "You are correct."

    "That''s why I thought I should join and bring home the glory." Ismael smiled, causing Joaquin to chuckle at his confident remark. Well, the person who had the most hunt would not only make them look good, but it was also the unspoken test of the royalties'' capability.

    "I wish you luck, third prince." Joaquin expressed sincerely, knowing his brother would never win against him бк ever. Not before, and definitely not now. He would bring home the title and impress his wife.

    "Thank you for the blessing." Ismael snapped his brows as he noticed the person standing next to the crown prince. The first thing that caught his eyes was Abel''s green hair before he notice the man''s stature and aura.

    ''Well, who is this?'' he wondered, as he has never seen this person in the past. He gazed at Abel until thetter looked back at him, and then he smiled.

    To his dismay, Abel smiled back. Shouldn''t he be bowing to him and greeting him just like the rest of Joaquin''s people? Ismael wasn''t surprised Joaquin wasn''t introducing him to hispany since they weren''t on friendly terms. But it wasmon etiquette for Abel to greet him for formality.

    "Crown prince, your people are quiteбн" he trailed off even when he heard a woman''s voice from the opposite side where he came from.

    "Your Highness!"

    Ismael, Joaquin, and Abel instinctively turned their attention to where the voice wasing from. As soon as they did, their eyesnded on Ariesing from the side. She was walking while fixing her wristband. A knight was following closely behind her while holding a crossbow.

    Aside from how stunning she looked, even in a red and ck hunting suit with her golden hair tied in a ponytail, what caught their eyes were the multiple trinkets dangling from the bottom of her fist. She stopped and turned her head in a particr direction, smiling subtly when a young nobledy approached her.

    Seeing that the young nobledy offered Aries a trinket with a flustered face, Ismael''s face contorted. Meanwhile, Joaquin furrowed his brows while Abel frowned. Aries simply epted the trinket and shed the young maiden a coquettish smile as if she was charming her.

    "бн" бк was their reaction.

 Chapter 272 Is She Cupid?

    Aries''s lips were stretched from ear to ear as she approached Joaquin''s vantage point. When she left her tent minutes ago and parted with Inez, Aries was stopped by a nobledy to give her a trinket and wish her good luck. It surprised her at first, as the maiden looked at her with great admiration.

    She wouldn''t think much about it, but moredies mustered their courage after that first nobledy''s action. So now, Aries collected quite a few trinkets before she stood in front of Joaquin and the few people with him.

    "Greetings, Your Royal Highness," she greeted with a slight neck bow, smiling at Abel, "Baron Albe," and then at Ismael, who was surely here to press the crown prince''s nerves. "Third prince. I''m very d to have you in here."

    "You seemed to have garnered quite a lot of admiration." Joaquin pointed out, watching Aries grin happily as she raised her hand to show off the trinkets which were around her index. "I''m d to see that my wife is recognized and admired."

    "Well, you should, since I''m born to be admired." Aries giggled while ying with the trinket before her brows rose.

    "What?" she asked, noticing the strange look in Joaquin''s and Abel''s eyes. It was as if the two of them were expecting something from her.

    "Nothing, crown princess."

    The crown prince''s smile didn''t reach his eyes, but Aries didn''t dwell on it. But what she was more concerned about was the look in Abel''s eyes. Abel wasn''t smiling or frowning, but the expectations in his eyes were too obvious not to notice.

    ''What is it?'' she wondered.

    Aries stopped ying with the trinkets on her finger when she notice Abel gazing at them. She bit her inner lip, shifting her eyes at the silent Joaquin, who was simply staring back at her, waiting for something as well.

    ''My darling Abelбн you are not expecting me to hand you a trinket in front of everyone, do you?''

    "Your Royal Highness, didn''t you make a trinket to wish the crown prince good luck for the hunt?" Ismael suddenly spoke as loud as he could, taking the opportunity to get on Joaquin''s nerves. Thetter cast the third prince a cold nce, to which Ismael replied with a nonchnt shrug.

    "Well, you''ve been busy, so it can''t be helped!" he continued while his lips stretched from ear to ear. "But I''m certain the crown prince will still win the huntingpetition, even if you didn''t give him a trinket as a lucky charm."

    "I''m taking part as well," Aries replied, causing Ismael to raise his brows. "I didn''t make a trinket since I''m one of the candidates and I don''t wish luck to my opponents."

    She disyed the trinkets she collected for the three men to see. "The crown prince already knows my heart is with him, but I can be quitepetitive. We''ll see if thedies'' spirits will help me."

    "Circe is right. She is a participant and shouldn''t be treated any less." Joaquin chimed in to save some face, hiding the slight disappointment in his heart from his expectations. "Still, even if you are my wife, I won''t go easy on you."

    "Heh," Aries smirked, moving her hand to her side with her palms open. Climaco, the knight, as if on cue, ced the crossbow on her hand, which she gripped securely with her left hand on the foregrip and below the crossbow''s rail.

    "I''ll be disappointed if you do." She aimed at him yfully, but her eyes veered to the person бк Abel бк standing next to Joaquin. "Promise me."

    "I''ll console youter." Joaquin nted his hand on top of the crossbow and guided it down. "Let''s go. The event is about to start."<sub> </sub>

    "Right." Aries handed the crossbow back to Climaco while keeping her eyes on Joaquin.

    With that being said, the crown princess and the crown prince headed to the raised tform while the rest followed them. As Joaquin''sckeys passed by them, Ismael was about to leave as well but halted when he noticed Abel was still standing still in his spot.

    "Is she cupid?" Abel mumbled, causing Ismael to furrow his brows.

    "Huh?"

    "Your highness, do you think the crown princess is the cupid in disguise?" this time, Abel looked back at the third prince to inquire about something the prince would never think he would hear today.

    "What are you saying?"

    "I believe she is because the arrow went straight through my chest."

    Abel pointed at his chest, sporting a solemn front as if he fell in love just now. However, that wasn''t the point. Ismael gazed at this man in dismay who was audacious enough to speak his fantasies about the crown princess without a care of who would hear him! Not to mention how he spoke informally, as if the two of them were equal бк not that this had ever mattered to Ismael.

    "I want to build a cult and worship her. Too bad she didn''t give me a trinket бк I would''ve made one if I know," Abel mumbled as he gazed in the direction where Joaquin and Aries went. "See you around, prince."

    Ismael''s face contorted as Abel suddenly pped his chest with the back of his hand lightly. For a moment, all he could do was watch thetter follow the noblemen who were walking behind the crown prince and crown princess.

    "Did he... just pat my chest?" he wondered, studying the man''s back and his arrogant manner of walking.

    Joaquin was a man who would keep everyone he could use closely. Thus, it was no surprise he would keep a few lower nobles with him to be his fodder. But that man Aries addressed as Baron Albe seemed different.

    It was a gut feeling Ismael had. That Baron gave him this restlessness and inexplicable feeling he couldn''t put in words.

    ''When the crown princess let herself known to me that nightбн'' His eyes glinted as he set his eyes on Aries who was standing beside Joaquin in the middle of the raised tform. ''I''ve been suspicious of the unfamiliar faces I''ve encountered since.''

    ? Ismael nodded mentally, knowing Aries had people behind her like Conan, who was a hundred times more capable than any elite knight.

    ''Was Baron Albe one of the crown princess'' people?'' he wondered and at the same time, he heard Joaquin announce to everyone;

    "This hunting season will nowmence!"

 Chapter 273 A Woman Worthy Of Admiration

    The rules of the hunt were simple. Each ss of animal released in the thick forest situated behind the imperial pce had points; ten points for each boar, fifteen for a deer, twenty for birds, and anything that was considered harmless бк or something that could be taken down easily.

    The person who gained the most points would be the season''s winner. Although the prize for the huntingpetition was handsome, everyone was mostly taking part for their pride and honor. No one entered for fun бк except Ismael.

    But this season''s huntingpetition, there were more people who took part for fun. One of them was the crown princess and, for reasons people couldn''t understand, they saw this as an act of empowerment instead of an insult.

    "Was the attire of the crown princess a new design for women who want to hunt?"

    "She looks very lovely, even in a hunting suit!"

    "I sawdies who gifted her trinkets, and she really kept it around her!"

    "Wasn''t she amazing? I would''ve joined if I knew she would join!"

    The conversation in the outdoor banquet, held in the clearing, under therge tent for nobledies to enjoy while men were out there hunting, was mostly about the crown princess. There were a fewdies who participated in the hunt butpare to the numbers of men, they were few.

    So Aries truly stood out. She looked even more elegant and awe-inspiring than the ninth princess, who was a regr participant. No one voiced that out, though.

    "Tch. Thesedies just doesn бк"

    "They were correct." Inez, who was sitting at one of the tables and overhearing everyone''s conversation, smiled. She set her eyes on one of the nobledies around the table with her.

    "The crown princess is not only the future empress in our Empire but also a fashion icon. Everyone had seen her fashion sense in the opening banquet and how she could make an average-looking woman into a star of the night."

    "Your Highness, hahaбн what are youбн?"

    Inez arched a brow as her eyes glossed over the faces looking back at her. "What I''m saying is, since the crown princess had been participating in the hunt,dies should also start considering taking part in such an event." She bent over to pick up the teacup, curling up her lips as she leaned back.

    "Even if it means not winning, but just to understand men better. The crown princess and the crown prince had a good rtionship because Her Highness understands the crown prince," she added with a shrug, staring at thedies over the rim of the teacup.

    Thedies looked at each other with the same confusion in their eyes before setting their gaze back to Inez. They couldn''t believe Inez was singing praises about the crown princess. Everyone was aware Inez liked the attention, and thesedies'' priorities were to boost her ego and make her happy.

    Never in their life had they expected Inez to praise someone else. Therefore, it rendered them speechless.

    "Ahem! Your Highness. Ladies such as myself didn''t take part in this year''s hunting because you weren''t," said one of thedies awkwardly. "I mean, manydies in here looked up to you andбн"

    "And I looked up to the crown princess." Inez continued sternly, keeping a straight face as she studied everyone''s expression. She couldn''t me thesedies since she trained them to only speak things Inez wanted to hear.

    "The crown princess is different," she added with a louder voice so everyone around could hear and pass it to another. "Not only she is elegantly beautiful, but she is also a model of proper decorum that everyone should take after. Countess Lloyd can attest to that."

    Inez turned her head to her left and her eyes fell on Cherry, who was sitting around the table three tables from Inez''s spot. Thetter, who had been trying to hide her presence, awkwardly smiled as she turned in Inez''s direction.

    "Her Highness is right. The crown princess is not only beautiful, but she is kind, smart, andpassionate as well. She is a woman worthy of admiration."<sub> </sub>

    "See?" Inez smiled in satisfaction as she faced everyone once again. "The crown princess is so kind and perfect that there were a few who takes advantage of that."

    "Your Highness, what do you mean by that?" asked one of the nobledies as more and moredies shifted their attention to Inez''s table.

    "Well, nothing in particr. I''m simply saying this since snakes often take advantage of kind people." Inez shrugged with a smile before she cast onedy a knowing look, and as if on cue, thedy cleared her throat to change the subject.

    "Right. Speaking of snakes, I heard about this strange rumor regarding a married woman who was seducing another married man."

    "What?" thedies gasped, and it didn''t take long when the subject from Aries shifted quickly to a more interesting tea.

    "Yes, and it was said the gentleman refused her even if she already stripped her clothes!"

    "My goodness! Does this woman have no dignity or shame to throw herself at another man?"

    "She should be stoned to death! How dare she covet another woman''s husband? Disgusting!"

    Inez listened to everyone''sments as the voices grew louder. Her lips curled up into a sneer, ncing in Cherry''s direction only to see the countess hanging her head low. Even thedies Cherry was with were talking about this rumor and were spitting nasty remarks, not knowing the person was just sitting with them.

    ''Since Circe wouldn''t deal with you, I''ll give the justice she deserves.'' Her eyes glinted with malice. ''This is just the beginning, and this is still nothing to what ising, Countess Lloyd. I had manyбн many methods to make your life a living hell.''

    A chuckle slipped past her lips, which didn''t catch anyone''s attention, as everyone was busy. It didn''t take long when she saw Cherry excuse herself when she could no longer stomach the awful remarks thrown indirectly at her.

    ''Goodbye, Countess Lloyd. I''ll give you all the attention you were seeking.''

    <strong>******</strong>

    Meanwhileбн

    ''In an affair, the woman always gets the short end of the stick.''

    <o>,m Aries'' words were stuck in Cherry''s head and were repeating in her mind on repeat as she rushed outside the tent of the outdoor banquet. Clutching her chest, she panted for air as she nced back at the exit of the tent.</o>

    ''The ninth princess also knew andбн is siding with the crown princess,'' she thought in panic, biting her thumb. ''She''s probably using me to get the crown princess''s trust. I should do something before she uses me as her stepping stone.''

    Cherry didn''t think further of what could be Inez''s intention for siding with Aries when the former was a narcissist. But what was certain was that Cherry was on the brink of being someone else''s stepping stone, and she knew the consequences. She had seen people who had be the royalties'' and noble''s fodder. She couldn''t be one of them after everything she had done.

    Cherry had reached this far on her own and she couldn''t fall that easily just because of one mistake.

    ''I should do somethingбн'' she suddenly paused as she raised her gaze. ''Rightбн''

    Without a second hesitation, Cherry hurriedly walked away and headed to the crown princess''s tent.

 Chapter 274 Black Magic

    Cherry knew it didn''t matter if she truly seduced Joaquin or if something happened between them. The second this news reached Aries''s radar, Cherry could only think of the worst. The crown princess wouldn''t let her off that easily or even if Aries had no ns to teach her a lesson, the people who wanted to get in the future empress''s good graces would use this opportunity.

    The crown princess didn''t need to order someone or punish her personally. Other people would happily do so in her stead. Inez, for example, was a person who had never let any opportunity slip past her grip. The ninth princess would go the extra mile to increase her power and influence.

    ''I will not go down easily.'' Cherry''s eyes zed with determination as she discreetly made her way to the crown princess''s tent. ''Even though she hadn''t done anything to me, I''m certain she was that confident because she had been befriending the ninth princess.''

    She looked around, seeing busy knights walking and doing their own thing around without guarding the tents around. It was not like it was strange for the crown princess''sdy-in-waiting to approach her master''s tent. When she was certain no one was paying her attention, Cherry intruded inside the tent silently.

    As soon as she did, her breath hitched, as there was a person inside.

    "Goodness..." she patted her chest the second she met Curtis''s eyes, who were staring nkly back at her. "What is this freak doing here?"

    Cherry shook her head as she reminded herself to focus on her agenda. She peeked outside once again to make sure no one was following her before she turned her head inside. Her eyes dwelled in Curtis''s direction for a full minute, letting out a deep exhale.

    ''I heard that the crown prince gifted this useless dog to her to see her reaction.'' She clicked her tongue in irritation, knowing Curtis didn''t help uncover the crown princess''s real identity.

    "Useless," she spat out under her breath, rolling her eyes before she started searching the crown princess'' tent. "She always keeps it with her. Where is it?"

    While Cherry was searching where Aries kept her treasured ne, which she would always take with her, Curtis was watching her mumble to herself. He leaned back, keeping his silence, intrigued at what could this woman was looking for.

    "Where is it?" she exhaled sharply, touching her temple while she panted for air. She had searched every possible ce Aries could have hidden the ne. She had seen the crown princess, and Cherry was certain she wasn''t wearing it.

    Why the ne?

    There was one instance when Aries was looking for the ne, enraged, as if she would kill, only to realize she asked Gertrude to hold it for a moment. If Cherry steals it now and nts it in Inez''s tent, it was enough to put a strain on the rtionship between the ninth princess and the crown princess.

    Cherry was certain that would be the oue because Aries truly treasured that ne, saying it was a gift from a very important person in her life бк a family. Time was Cherry''s enemy since she didn''t know when those greedy people would strike her.

    She needed to strike before they do and use this entire situation to regain the crown princess'' trust. It might not be enough, but at least this would buy her some time.<sub> </sub>

    While Cherry was deep in thought, something on the side glinted and caught her eyes. She slowly turned her head and her eyes fell on the ne hung around Curtis. Her eyes instantly dted before she marched towards Curtis, gaze fixed on the ne around his neck.

    "Hah... really... how did I not think about it?" sheughed, raising her eyes to meet Curtis'' eyes. "She has a habit of letting lowly animals like you hold something she values."

    Staring down at Curtis, her lips curled up into a wicked sneer. This man looked a little healthier and more human than when shest saw him, but it didn''t matter. He was nothing but a dog who would bark at his master''s behest.

    "The crown prince is foolish to not suspect that giving you special treatment is solely from the goodness of her heart," she scoffed, suddenly having this sense of disgust while staring at him up close. "Someone like you... deserves the hell you had gone through. That''s not enough бк you and that insufferable princess, who thinks she is perfect."

    "Both of you... hah бк do you know how many men feast on her? And now, she sleeps with the man who murders her family. Wasn''t she disgusting?" she added to make herself better by listing down the reason Aries was below her. "She didn''t bark like you, though, but she would once I uncovered her disguise."

    Her eyes fell on the ne around Curtis and reached for it ever so slowly. However, before she could touch it, she instantly withdrew her hand when he bites her hand.

    "Ah!" she ground her teeth and held her hand, sucking air through her gritted teeth. She gazed at her hand; her pinky was bleeding generously. Cherry put pressure on her pinky before she red daggers at him.

    "You...!"

    Cherry raised her hand to give him a proper p as punishment for biting her finger, but she froze when Curtis licked the blood off of his lips and spat it to the side. Her eyes slowly dted when he nced back at her, blinking almost innocently.

    "Arf...?" he barked before the side of his lips curled up into an amused smirk. "Sorry, Cherry. My master told me to keep this ne at all times. So, this dog will bite anyone who tries to take it away."

    "Is your finger alright? I would bite it entirely next time so it won''t hurt that much бк trust me, you won''t feel it for a moment." He smiled and showed his missing pinky while Cherry staggered back, eyes fixed on him.

    She barely blinked, as if she was trying to process what had just happened.

    "You..." Her breath hitched as she took several steps back. "Why... how...?"

    "ck magic." He shrugged.

 Chapter 275 Bless Your Heart

    "ck magic."

    Cherry''s eyes were shaking as she watched him nonchntly look back at her. For a moment, her brain was nk until a momentter, her lips hooked up, which was then followed by augh.

    "Hah... haha!" she covered her lips to muffle herughter, gazing at him in amusement. "I knew it! I knew she was that dirty wench! Oh, Curtis бк you should''ve just pretended you were still a useless dog. Now, she --"

    "Now, she what?" he asked, putting a stop to her festive mood. "I do not quite understand why you are so happy, Lady Borges? Or should I address you as Countess Lloyd?"

    Curtis took a deep breath as he studied the woman''s face. He used to admire her beauty. But after seeing the person behind the multipleyers of masks she was wearing, Cherry was undoubtedly grotesque.

    "Was it because you think if you tell the crown prince about my situation, he will believe you? Lady Lloyd, even if you tell everyone in the empire that this dog who was put through hell over and over and over had recovered, they won''t believe you. Do you know why?" he smiled kindly, showing no trace of hatred towards this woman. It was a waste of his energy to give even the slightest of him to someone like her.

    "Who would believe a person who sold her homnd, her family, and everyone without showing the slightest remorse? You made it to the high society because that''s your forte, but you know, more than anyone, people are just waiting for you to make a mistake so they canugh at your face," he exined, enjoying how the lines of her smile faded. "I am even more appalled that you had the gall tough, when in fact, you should be trembling in fear, Cherry."

    "Had it never crossed you that if Aime is the crown princess, then... do you think you are herdy-in-waiting just because you are amazing, just as you think you are?" he continued with a sarcastic yet weakugh. "Cherry, you know Aime. She is the kindest and the most genuine friend you will ever have, but you do not want to make an enemy out of her..."

    "Sadly, you did. You betrayed her, knowing her fate would be nothing but hell in the hands of the crown prince. It''s your fault, Cherry. You killed Aime, you murdered me. If there was another person who deserved to rot in hell, that is you... for ughtering everyone in Rikhill," Curtis stressed his words, as he couldn''t really say Joaquin and the Maganti Empire betrayed them.

    Rikhill and the Maganti Empire were in friendly rtions, but they were aware of the empire''s antics and shenanigans. The reason they were trying to please the Maganti in their own way until they could form a stronger alliance that could help them from the empire if worsees to worst.

    But the worst happened sooner than expected. Still, more than the pain of getting theirnd taken away by another, it was more unpleasant to look at someone who sold her ownnd for her own personal interest.

    "Did you think she will give you mercy?" he asked as he cocked his head to the side before shaking it mildly. "No, Lady Borges. You should''ve killed her with your own hands and made sure she would''ve suffered till the end. But s, you wished to prolong her sufferings just like how you wished to see me suffer."<sub> </sub>

    "I can''t help but wonder, Cherry. Why?" Curtis slowly nted his palms on his thighs and pushed himself up. "Why... do you hate us so much to wish and celebrate our misfortune?"

    "Don''te near me --" she staggered back as he closed the gap between them. "No, don''t --"

    "Why not?" Curtis extended his hand out and gripped her wrist. "Why? Are you afraid I will p you too, just like how you pped me until both my cheek and your palm grew numb? Or were you terrified that I will ask someone to beat you until you are half dead? Or do you think I will tie your hands and feet on a horse, only to whip them as an attempt to dismantle your joints?"

    His grip tightened as heughed in ridicule. "Cherry, are you terrified that the abuse Aime, and I had gone through in this ce... will happen to you? Why, though? You took part and enjoyed it. So why are you terrified of things you had inflicted upon others?"

    Her lips quivered as they parted, wanting to scream for help. However, her voice was stuck in her throat as her knees trembled while realization and dread slowly seeped deep into her bones.

    "Scream, Cherry. Let the knights outside know you snuck inside here." Curtis cocked his head to the mess she hadn''t fixed yet. "I never hurt women because I respect my mother and my sisters, but I also never felt this disgust welling up in my chest the more I look at you."

    Curtisughed before he let her go. As soon as he did, Cherry copsed to her knees with a nk and paleplexion.

    "Be thankful. I still respect them, and I don''t want to raise my hand on you." He trudged back to his chair and perched on it with ease. "I''m kidding. I would''ve punched you in the face until you are wearing your real ugly face, and then tell myself my family will understand my anger."

    Heughed, waiting for her to raise her head to see his grin. "The only reason I hadn''t done that is... you''re pathetic. These hands had touched all the disgusting things throughout the years I''ve been in here, but you''re the dirtiest I do not want to get my hands on. You''re filthier than human feces."

    "I believed in karma. What goes aroundes around. So wasting more energy on you is not worth it. That''s what Aime said, so she is letting others handle you." He sported a knowing look before he nced at the entrance for a second. "Aren''t I kind to give you clues, Cherry? I sincerely hope this will help you save you from your impending doom."

    "After allбн the ninth princess had a very twisted way of entertainment бк Aime and I knew that very well." He smirked while her heart sank. "I wish you luck, Cherry. May God bless your heart."

 Chapter 276 The Story Of Baron Albe

    In the hunting grounds...

    Joaquin offered Ariespany as they prepare to set off to the woods but she refused. He insisted for minutes, but her adamant refusal of his offer and abuse of the excuse ''she was a contender'' eventually forced him to let her have her way.

    Riding a horse through the forestne, Aries looked around with the crossbow in her hand.

    "I wonder if Abel will find a way to leave Joaquin''s side..." she mumbled as she bounced along with the horse''s gait.

    "Your Highness, if finding a way is the question, then the answer is obvious." She looked to her one and onlypany; a charming man in a hunting suit with his tousled copper hair spiking in every direction.

    Conan.

    "The real question was whether he wants to leave the crown prince''s side or stay with him," he continued in a knowing tone whilst rolling his eyes.

    "Why would Abel want to stay with Joaquin?" she asked as she peeled her eyes away from him. Aries had morepany with Climaco and the second squadron on her trail. But as they journeyed deeper into the woods, Aries ordered her entourage to split up so they could also hunt, which they obeyed, confident the forest was safe with all the safety parameters everyone put up.

    Right when Aries was all alone, riding her horse aimlessly and leisurely, Conan suddenly turned up and now apanying her. At this point, Aries was not surprised since Abel and Conan would just appear out of nowhere as if Maganti were Haimirich.

    "Well, you tell me, Lady Aries. Why would His Majesty want to stay close with His Royal Highness?" Conan returned sarcastically, shrugging when her eyes glided over him once more.

    A quiet sigh slipped past her lips. "He''s my husband."

    "Exactly!" Conanughed. "It''s still a surprise His Majesty had done nothing but count just yet."

    "Count?" her brows creased as the lines on her forehead deepened, sizing Conan''s naturally innocent features. "What do you mean by that?"

    He forced a smile and avoided her gaze. "Debts."

    "Debts...? He''s counting debts?" Aries frowned as her eyes slid over him before she narrowed them. "Now that I think about it... Sir Conan, howe Abel became Baron Albe and an acquaintance of the crown prince?"

    She never probed бк or rather, she didn''t have the chance to бк and mostly relied on her own brain to have a reasonable exnation regarding this. But now that Conan was here, and they had all the time in the world to chat, Aries wanted to clear things up to leave room in her head.

    "Uhm..." Conan looked up for a moment to ponder for an answer. "I think it was about... over a year ago?"

    "A year ago?"

    "Mhm!" he hummed and nodded. "If my memory serves right, His Majesty had always has set his eyes on the Maganti Empire after the world summit. So, he nted a few of his people in the Maganti and came across this mysterious merchant."

    "You mean the real Baron Albe?"

    "No." Conan shook his head. "Baron Albe is His Majesty. It''s obvious because he simply jumbled his name to make up a proper name out of it."<sub> </sub>

    Her face contorted as confusion filled her eyes. "I''m... lost."

    "Lady Aries, this mysterious merchant never showed his face, nor did anyone know his real name. He was mostly known by his alias," he exined while she listened carefully, ignoring the careful clip-clops of their steeds. "To make the story short, this man was a known monger in the ck market. He mostly smuggles weapons to those kingdoms to prolong their wars or simply incite one, but his current money treees from opium."

    Her eyes narrowed while Conan nodded to confirm her suspicion.

    "Our people in Haimirich are efficient, so uncovering this person''s identity is not a problem," he announced proudly but was short-lived as she raised a question.

    "What happened to him?"

    "Dead."

    "..."

    "Since no one knew his face because he often wore a mask even around his trusted people, no one is suspicious if someone imed to be him. They won''t even know if he''s dead. So, one of His Majesty''s people stood as proxy and bought a title whilst exchanging letter to his important client."

    "And that important client is Joaquin?"

    "Exactly." Conan nodded as he raised his brows. "All for this time."

    For a moment, Aries held her breath as she surveyed Conan''s expression. "If..." she cleared her throat and pretended she didn''t feel the chill that crept up her spine. "If I didn''t want revenge, Sir Conan, what do you think Abel will do?"

    "Huh?" Conan looked at her with surprise clouding his features. "Are you for real?"

    "Just... tell me, alright? I want to hear it from the person who had the little power to change the emperor''s opinion."

    "Goodness... this empire?" he whistled as he pondered the easiest description of what this ce would end. "Will poof. Especially now that there''s a lot more reason for that."

    Her brows creased as his voice lowered upon hisst sentence. But she still heard him.

    "What do you mean by that?" Aries pulled the reins to halt the horse, eyes fixed on Conan, whose brows rose in confusion. "Why is there more reason for the Maganti to cease to exist?"

    "People here are bad." Conan smiled, but his quick and calm response only rose even more questions in her head. After spending a fair amount of time with this man, Aries realized Conan was a good liar. Or ratherбн he was good at simplifying things and making it sound like they were shallow things one mustn''t concern themselves with.

    But Aries also knew that was the sign she shouldn''t ask more or Conan would mislead her. Not that she needed to concern herself with their reasons since she had her own reason to destroy the people here.

    "Anywayбн" Aries trailed off as both of them looked around at the faint noise that reached their keen ears. Her eyes narrowed sharply as the corner of her lips curled into a smirk.

    "They had started."

 Chapter 277 His Warning

    "They had started."

    Conan blinked twice as he set his eyes on Aries''s side. Noticing the lopsided smirk on her face, he tilted his head to the side.

    "Lady Aries, are you nning on joining the crown prince?" he asked out of in curiosity, watching her look back at him with a sweet smile.

    "Of course not!" she giggled, adjusting the reins on one hand while she carried the crossbow in position. "They had started, so it means it''s my time to hunt! I got apetition to win."

    Conan tilted his head, but before he could speak, Aries already sped away like a madwoman.

    "Come on, Sir Conan! Let''s put your vacation to good use and hunt for me!"

    "Heyбн!" he outstretched his hand but to no avail, eyes on the dust her steed was ambling up. "I feel like I don''t even know the entire n anymore."

    A deep exhale escaped his mouth as he gazed at the path she was galloping too. "I''m a little worried about His Majestyбн he''s been counting how many times he will peel the crown prince''s palms for touching her."

    He shook his head as Abel''s train of thoughts recently had been rming.

    "Anywayбн just how many does she need to win this contest?" he gazed up and caught a figure sitting on a branch while hiding behind a canopy as a clumsy attempt to camouge himself. "That will only work with Lady Aries, Marquess. It''s funny now that I see you."

    Dexter moved the canopy to the side to reveal his poker face. Conan''s face contorted as this guy had been watching Aries from afar, making sure she would be safe.

    "Sir Conan, you''ve been idling too much since setting foot in this ce. You don''t even know what Dani was up to."

    "She''ll be fine. You''re watching her." Conan scorned. "So, how many should we bring home for her to win?"

    Dexter snapped his eyes to think for a moment. "Hundred?"

    "Points?"

    "Hundred wild animals," he rified, thinking the wilder and more elusive the animal, the bigger the points they had. "My sister needs to make history. I''ll make sure no one will beat her even after ten generations of this hunting season."

    "Wowбн that''s cheating."

    "This entire empire is built with deception. What''s so bad about it?"

    "Make sense." Conan nodded in agreement, as the truth in this ce was well-hidden. "Anyway, I will hunt for Lady Aries. Just stay there and rx. I don''t need your help."

    A frown instantly conquered Dexter''s face while Conan grinned smugly before thetter jumped off of the steed, only to tie its rein to the nearby tree. Conan waved at him before jogging away since hunting without riding was easier for him.

    "He really knows how to make people do what he wants," Dexter mumbled while shaking his head lightly. He sighed deeply, ncing in the direction Aries went to and then at where Conan disappeared to.

    "Well, I guess I need to hunt another hundred since he will surely hunt around that number to impress her." He stretched his neck from one side to the other, producing a satisfying cracking sound, eyes closed. "I hope they released that many wild animals бк I don''t want to go past the parameters."

    When Dexter slowly reopened his eyes, they glinted sharply and his opalescent eyes changed to red for a split second. In a blink of an eye, he disappeared from the branch and, like a shadow, he skipped from tree to tree.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    In a vast forest clearing, Abel was standing a step behind Joaquin while thetter was talking to Hernan, his aide. He had been quiet and so far, they had hunted quite a few animals. His eyes glided around, catching all the noblemen and knights assisting Joaquin''s hunting.<sub> </sub>

    ''How spoiled,'' he thought as he wondered if he could have such sweet private time with Joaquin. All these schemes they had been whispering about were boring to him now.

    "And Circe?" Abel arched a brow when Joaquin inquired about Aries to Hernan.

    "We received a word she had dispersed her knights to hunt, but she will surely stay within the safe areas, Your Highness," Hernan reported with a slight conflict in his eyes, but already used to it since Joaquin had been more concerned about the crown princess and her activities.

    Joaquin kept quiet before lifting his sharp eyes at Hernan. "Make sure she will stay unharmed or I won''t let you off, Hernan."

    Hernan lowered his head and gulped. "Ye бк yes, Your Royal Highness."

    "Good." Joaquin rocked his head and raised his chin, smirking. "Let the party start."

    "Yes, Your Highness."

    With that being said, Hernan bowed and scurried away to execute Joaquin''s secret order for today''s agenda. As he hurriedly walked away with a few gentlemen and knights, Joaquin faced Abel with a smile.

    "Apologies for that," he expressed while Abel''s smile caused his eyes to squint into slits. "I heard there was a slightmotion in the hunting grounds."

    "How diligent of you, Your Royal Highness. It''s reassuring such a man will lead this great country someday."

    "Haha! It''s simply my duty." Joaquinughed with a shrug, looking around the clearing as everyone was having a break before they continue their hunt. "By the way, Baron Albe, as a man who is affiliated with different peopleбн"

    He held his hand behind, standing tall while his eyes fell in a direction. "бн you''re not affiliated with the Valiente Gueris, are you?"

    "Your Royal Highness, you are my client. I do not want to sully our good rtionship by shaking hands with your enemies." Abel''s reply was quick and his smile remained, watching Joaquin slowly turn his head to face him.

    "Good," Joaquin remarked, surveying Abel''s expression with glinting eyes. "It''ll be a shame if you double-cross me."

    <strong>SWOOSH!</strong>

    Abel quirked a brow when an arrow suddenlynded near his foot. But he maintained his smile and eye contact with Joaquin while the rest panicked at the multiple arrowsing in their direction.

    "There are only two things that can make me angry, Baron Albe," Joaquin continued in a low voice to emphasize this wasn''t just a reminder but a threat. "First is betraying me and secondбн is my wife. I understand she''s stunning, but she''s mine. I hope that is clear with you."

    Abel chuckled as he rocked his head, tapping his wrist while holding it behind him. "It''s crystal clear, Your Royal Highness." His eyelids dropped until they were partially closed.

    "Veryбн clear."

    "Excellent." Joaquin kept his smile before averting his attention to the knight who approached him.

    "Your Highness, it seemed the hunting grounds were infiltrated with enemies!" announced the knight in panic, but Joaquin remained calm.

    "Prepare everyone and we''ll hunt down every single one of them."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Joaquin nced at Abel with a wicked smirk. "Let''s go, Baron Albe. I''ll show you something fun."

 Chapter 278 A Memory

    Meanwhile...

    Aries had no ns for the hunting season aside from winning thepetition. She knew Joaquin would use such an asion since he was the type of person who would never let an opportunity slide. So when she heardmotions somewhere on the hunting grounds, she set off to hunt, knowing everyone would be busy doing their own schemes.

    "Would Joaquin cheat thispetition too?" she mumbled as she slowed down, pulling the reins and looking around the woods surrounding her. "I didn''t even see any bunny."

    Her frown grew deeper as there was a high possibility Joaquin ced all the released wild in a specific area where he would hunt. Knowing how rotten the crown prince was, it was something he would definitely do.

    As Aries thought more about which area to hunt, a memory she had been squashing down the closer the hunting season approached suddenly resurfaced in her head.

    She surveyed the deep, verdant green surrounding, and right before her eyes, everything spun in a slow-motion... until the virescent riot slowly changed into andscape frosted with sweet whiteness. She blinked once and the light streak of white gold radiating upon her surrounding changed into a sepia tone because of the thick fog of winter.

    Aries turned to her left, and she saw herself... running naked for her life.

    "Oh, Aries~!" she looked back to where the sound of the voice wasing from. And there, not far away through the woods, were Inez and Javier,ughing in the forest clearing.

    "Go faster! Or we will catch you~!" Javierughed, humming melodiously while he prepared his bow and arrow to hunt her down.

    Aries shifted her eyes to Inez, who was already riding on her steed, to start her hunt. She knew what happened here... or rather, her memory about this yet another freezing winter was hazy.

    All she could remember was tonight, Inez and Javier had a great time toying with her.

    "Right..." she whispered, shifting her eyes to the naked Aries trudging through the onught of white. "Right... this happened."

    Aries kept her eyes on herself, riding her steed in a slow-motion to follow her tracks. All she could see on that exhausted lean face while fighting this freezing weather with no cloth to give her the slightest warmth was desperation. Aries went through a lot and honestly, she couldn''t remember all the little details. Unless they were worthy to remember.

    And this one... she couldn''t remember it clearly. She didn''t know if the other tortures she went through or her determination in this freezing cold barely kept her half-conscious, simply overshadowed her memoryne.

    "Don''t go there," she whispered, watching herself wonder which path to take. Mncholy nketed her eyes as Aries turned to her right, hands touching every tree to find her way out of this vast forest.

    "Fool," shemented when the Aries she had been watching came out to the path where she was.

    Aries was looking around. Her quivering lips had already turned purple, clutching her hand close to her chest as her entire body trembled at the harsh gust of wind.

    "I told you..." came out a muffled voice as the Aries she was watching finally walked ahead, which she followed closely behind. "... don''t think about these things anymore."<sub> </sub>

    Aries knew she was simply living in the memory of yesterday. That none of this бк including that Aries who was walking slowly ahead of her or the sound of horses galloping in the other area of the forest бк was real. However, she couldn''t wake herself up from this memoryne... or daydreaming if that was what it even called.

    All she could do was follow her younger self, studying all the dirt and bruises and new wounds across thetter''s body. Her eyes fell and blood from her blistered feet mixed in her trails.

    "I already know what will happen here..." she whispered once more, thinking Inez or Javier would find her first and dragged her back to where they came from. That younger Aries knew that already. That she wouldn''t escape them even when they freed her from her shackles and out of the cage.

    However, she still wanted to try.

    Onest time.

    Even if it was pitiful and a futile attempt.

    Even if she gets mocked by those wicked people.

    She wanted to escape because if she didn''t... she would snap. Aries would forget everything and just lose it, just like what they wanted.

    "Ah!" Aries stopped when her younger self tripped over despite her slow pace. Thetter winced as she raised her hand. Her palm was bleeding after hitting something underneath the snow. But the little blood wasn''t enough to stop her as she clenched her teeth and channeled her pain into strength to get up.

    It was a painful memory to recall much more to watch. The reason Aries kept distracting herself from other things as this season approached. She hated winter in Maganti. Aside from a memory such as this, Aries had always felt there was something even more to hate that season.

    "Nowбн I think I know whyбн" she mumbled, following her younger self as thetter dragged her feet further deep into the forest, thinking every step was a step closer to freedom.

    It was not.

    They remained silent, listening to the melody of silence.

    The current Aries didn''t know how long or far she went by following her own ghost, but her steed stopped when the younger Aries fell for the umpteenth time. This time, she didn''t rise immediately as she caught up to her quick breaths.

    Watching her lying there on her stomach with her hand crawling and clutching the white surface, Aries had her teeth clenched. Her grip around the reins tightened before she eventually loosened it to hop out of the horse. However, just before she could get off to help herself, knowing it was simply a reverie, Aries paused as she raised her head.

    Her brows furrowed uponying her eyes on a person covered with a cloak. She couldn''t see the person''s face with the hook over his or her head. Aries silently watched this person approach her younger self and when the person reached her, he crouched low while her younger self raise her head.

    "I don''t remember meetingбн" Aries trailed off as she snapped back to the currentpse at the loud neigh of her horse before it went wild.

 Chapter 279 An Accident

    <strong>Neigh!</strong>

    Aries held her breath as she held on to the reins tighter on instinct to calm the spooked horse, trying to put his feet to work. She had ridden a horse and experienced the same situation in the past, which she resolved. However, for reasons she couldn''t understand, her steed wasn''t listening to her, and before she knew it, two of its front feet left the ground, nearly throwing her out of it.

    "Hey! It''s alright --" Aries squealed as the horse galloped in a frenzy, hunching her body forward to keep up with its speed. She looked around at the narrow trail and realized this was probably the reason the horse was startled.

    In the middle of her trance, she went deeper into the forest without realizing it!

    Aries clenched her teeth as she tried to regain control over the horse but to no avail. The horse was galloping deeper into the forest until Aries caught sight of the river ahead.

    ''Not good!'' she panicked, knowing the horse wouldn''t stop and she would be in deeper trouble.

    Aries looked around and mustered her courage to jump off of it. It was speeding so fast, so she braced herself for the impact. She counted in her head and the second she counted three, Aries jumped off of it.

    Rolling awfully on the rocky ground, she protected her head on instinct. But she was only human. Hence, as she rolled on the ground without control of what she would hit, Aries inflicted bruises on top of the dirt that clung to her.

    "Ugh..." came out a grunt as she clenched her teeth, feeling all the muscles under her skin get beaten like ground meat.

    She stayed in her position and when she tried to sit up, she winced at the striking pain in her upper abdomen. That second, Aries was immediately aware she had broken a rib, and it felt like it was stabbing her organs.

    Aries carefully moved, watching her every slight movement, hand on the side of her upper abdomen. Sitting upright with great difficulty, Aries panted for air as she broke out in cold sweats.

    "What just happened?" she wondered, blinking hard to clear her shaking vision. Her head felt light, but aside from the pain in her abdomen, she didn''t feel any other major pain anywhere across her body.

    When she got used to the striking pain, Aries lowered her head to check if she got any other injuries. A curse came out of her gritted teeth when she saw her twisted ankle and the blood from the scratches on her arms.

    ''I haven''t killed Joaquin, and I nearly died?'' she clicked her tongue in irritation, trying to make herselfugh at the grave situation she was in. "This... is something I haven''t foreseen."

    Aries kept her teeth clenched as she hunched her upper body, only to wince and grunt at the pain in her abdomen. She carefully bent her knees so she could reach her twisted ankle. Perks of getting tortured for years, she thought. She was used to having a few broken bones.

    She took deep breaths as she held on to her feet with her other hand on her heel and the other on her toes. Gritting her teeth even harder and holding her breath, a loud yell came out of her as she twisted her feet to fix her broken ankle.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>CLACK!</strong>

    Aries copsed on her back as she sighed and inhaled deeply when relief flood her body from her ankle to the tip of her scalp after the momentary pain of relocating her joints. Her chest moved upward and downward heavily, staring at the canopies shielding her eyes from the light shining down on her.

    "Ah, goodness..." she muttered as she closed her eyes for a moment before reopening them ever so slowly. Her vision zoomed in and out, so she blinked to regain control of her consciousness. Her head felt lighter with every passing second, making her hold her temple as if that would still her shaking vision.

    Her brows creased as her forehead wrinkled upon feeling something on her palm. Aries carefully withdrew her hand and gazed at her palm. She narrowed her eyes to get a clearer view, only to realize there was blood on her palm.

    Not just blood from a graze, but half of her palm had blood. She touched her head once again and looked at her fingers to confirm where that blood came from.

    "I still hit my head," she murmured in distress, resting her hand over her forehead to think.

    In her mind, if she was bleeding this badly, and she was still conscious, her body was still undergoing shock. It wouldn''t take long before she would lose consciousness.

    Aries had nopany since she sent all her knights away. She left Conan to hunt for her, and she didn''t know where the hell she was, how deep was she in the hunting ground, or if she was still within the safe zone. There were too many things to think about and even if she wanted to me herself for hallucinating, she couldn''t.

    "I need to return," she hissed, stabilizing her breathing to prepare herself to go back.

    When Aries felt like she was slightly alright, she rolled around until she was lying on her tummy. Using her elbows to support herself, she dragged her body up until she was on her knees and arms, catching up to her breathing.

    ''You can do it,'' she told herself, taking several deep breaths to gain momentum. ''This is nothingpared to... what you did to survive.''

    Aries ground her teeth as she pushed herself with her elbows until she was standing on her knees. Her body swayed as her she felt dizzy, but she managed to keep her stance until she reopened her eyes.

    "You can do it..." she encouraged under her breath, nting her palm on her ground as she tried to stand on her feet. Aries instantly winced as her sprained ankle ached at her weight, but she stood still until the pain was too much it numbed.

    "I need to go back..." her eyes narrowed to see through her hazy vision, dragging her feet, holding on to the trees in the narrow trail to keep herself from falling.

    As she walked carefully while fighting off the heaviness in her eyes, Aries suddenly thought of herself that winter. Just like that Aries, who dragged her feet through the ankle-deep snow, Aries felt like reliving that day.

 Chapter 280 Yesterday And Today

    Just like that freezing winter, coldness seeped deep into her bones as every gust of mild breeze made her shiver. Aries didn''t stop just like that night. She forced her feet to keep going. Despite her blurring vision and throbbing head, she marched through the trail hoping to return to where she came from or just somewhere close where people would see her.

    ''I can''t die here,'' she whispered internally, leaving this bitter taste in her mouth.

    Aries used to tell herself these exact words in the past. She would repeat those words over and over until that was all she could think of. She couldn''t die бк not in this ce.

    "You can''t die here..." came out another repeat under her breath. "You can''t --"

    She stopped, holding on to the tree with her shut eyes as the world shook in her eyes and nearly caused an imbnce. Her head injury would soon take away her consciousness. She couldn''t allow that. If only she could hasten... if only she was careful or she didn''t dwell on her memories that led her to sleepwalk while awake...

    There were myriads of regrets that were filling her head about why she was in this situation, but it was already toote. Things already happened and she could only focus on how she could wake upter. She had to. She wasn''t done with them yet бк she hadn''t avenged herself, her family, and her people.

    "Where are they when I need them?" she wondered as she forced her eyes to open, dragging her feet to continue moving forth.

    <o>,m During her time in this Maganti Empire, everyone would keep popping up out of nowhere and wouldn''t leave her alone. Be it Joaquin or the servants, they just bother her nonstop.</o>

    So, where were they now?

    "Right..." her pale and chapped lips quivered as her vision blurred, making her narrow her eyes. "... they''re also here."

    Conan, Dexter, and Abel. Those people... her people were also here.

    Her mouth opened and closed like a fish, but her tongue kept rolling back to her throat. Would theye if she cried for help? Aries knew they would. However, her voice wouldn''te out.

    Even though there was a ny-nine percent chance they woulde to her rescue, the one percent possibility they wouldn''t terrify her. Why? Because... just like in the past, she cried for help until her throat bled. But no one came to her rescue.

    No one heard her.

    No one looked for her.

    There was no one who saved her.

    She saved herself.

    "A... A... ugh!" Aries missed her footing and failed to grasp the next tree and fell to her knees. She tried to stand up while gritting her teeth, seeding, and continued to drag her feet, leaving a trail of blood behind. However, one fall was followed by another until it somehow became a routine, until she slumped on the ground for the fourth time.<sub> </sub>

    "Ah!" this time, Aries writhed on her tummy, feeling a rock under her chest. Her nails dug into the dry ground, unable to close her mouth to breathe.

    Heat filled her eyes as she tried to rise once again, only to slump back down, hitting her chest once more. Aries panted, grinding her teeth, sweating buckets of cold sweat mixing on the blood on her head that covered her right eye.

    Staying still in that position, Aries closed her eyes and wiped the blood with the back of her hand. But when she reopened them, the dry ground turned into a wooly white duvet. Her brows rose when she felt a light substance as white as a cottonnd on her knuckles. It was cold... like snow.

    ''I don''t want to go back here,'' was the first thought that came through her head, knowing she was hallucinating about that night. Lying down just like how she copsed that freezing winter pathetically, Aries was brought back to relive that memory.

    ''I don''t want...'' her thoughts trailed off as she snapped her eyes weakly, lifting her gaze ahead.

    She blinked weakly, and all she saw was a person under a long, in, and old cloak. Her pupils constricted as her eyes shook, seeing the person approach her.

    Deep in her heart, she knew she needed to run away. But s, she couldn''t.

    All she could do was stare at the approaching figure until the person crouched down. Her vision was growing blurry, trying to see who it was, but to no avail. The next thing she knew, a thumb pinched her chin up.

    ''No...'' she whispered as her mouth fell open, seeing the person''s thin and dry lips move. She couldn''t hear it, nor could she read what the lips were saying, but Aries was certain a part of her understood it.

    Her breath hitched when she noticed a dark shroude out of the person''s mouth and seeped into her mouth. Aries tried to close her mouth, but she couldn''t. Even breathing was proved to be impossible as if the dark shroud entering her system was gripping her lungs.

    Slowly, her face turned red and all the veins in her temple, her neck, and even in her eyes protruded. She was choking. Aries''s brain kept telling her she would die. Literally... suffocate to death.

    ''No...'' she huped, digging her nails deeper into the ground. ''No... help...''

    Her eyes dted even more as panic swelled in her chest, lips quivering, desperate for the slightest air. She felt like she was underwater, trying to swim back to the surface only to sink deeper and deeper until her surrounding grew darker and the faint light shrunk.

    ''Help...'' she cried in her heart, pupils constricting as they soon clouded. ''...help... please... someone...''

    While Aries was struggling to breathe, unknowingly twisting on the ground with her hands around her neck, she didn''t notice the bear that appeared out of nowhere and was approaching her stealthily. Saliva was dripping from the corner of its mouth, eyes bloodshot, a hint it came for a feast.

    When the bear gazed at the woman writhing on the ground, it licked its razor-sharp teeth, and without a moment''s notice, he pounded his front paws and opened its mouth to devour her.

    At the same time, Aries, who was on the brink of losing her consciousness, forced a muffled cry. "Abel... I''m dying..."

 Chapter 281 The Wind From The East

    Back to Abel...

    It was no secret to a few individuals what this huntingpetition would turn out like. Joaquin would finally use the seal. Just like what Aries expected, a rumor in the streets had been circting.

    This rumor wasn''t the sort that would usually talk about by everyone. It was a rumor that was mostly discussed in the narrow streets, passing the message discreetly.

    It said; <strong>the gueris would strike soon.</strong> It didn''t matter if there was some truth in this rumor or where it came from. What mattered was that the idea was there.

    An incident as big as an attack on the crown prince or the nobles would only prove the freedom fighters were nothing but a group of barbarians attacking the royalties unprovoked. With a piece of evidence... such as the official seal, it was easy to pin everything to that notorious group who had resisted the royal family''s ruling for years.

    If only everyone knew what was happening behind the scenes and how the rumors weren''t even close to the unspeakable creation of these stories... everyone would question everything about this great country.

    "So... they sent people who no longer had tongues so they won''t speak no matter what we do to them?" Joaquin was loading the rifle he received as a gift from Abel, smirking as he raised his head at the men they had captured and were brought into the forest clearing. "Well, we don''t need their tongues for them to show us where they came from, correct?"

    He chuckled in glee, unable to hide his excitement, as it had been a while since he truly went hunting. Raising a hand, Joaquin beckoned the knights to free the five men who were wearing uniformed ck clothes бк the color the Valiente Guerris were known for.

    "Set them free," Joaquin ordered louder, catching the unsuspecting knights off guard. He grinned, seeing the surprise stered on their faces. "Torturing them for attacking the crown prince is a waste of time. They do not have tongues; how are they going to confess? Therefore... we should just let them go."

    Abel studied Joaquin''s wicked expression quietly from the side and then his eyes slid over the knights, epting the orders. Since themand came from the crown prince directly, the knights, although appalled by this order, had to obey. A few of them approached the ones they captured.

    ''No wonder my darling is confident in that other prince...'' Abel thought as he watched the knights free the said assants of the crown prince. As soon as the rope came off, the assants quickly moved, taking the knights off guard to use them as human shields.

    ''... not all knights can stomach the reality that is behind the public image of the crown prince.''

    <strong>BANG!</strong>

    The assants'' who used the knights as shields froze as Joaquin fired a shot without a second hesitation, ending the knight he used as a shield due to the hole in his chest. Their eyes dted while the side of the crown prince''s lips curled up into an evil smirk.

    "Run!" Joaquin urged as he loaded the rifle and immediately took a firing stance. He closed one of his eyes, watching them flee while the rest still dragged the knights with a dagger to their throats to prolong their life.

    <strong>BANG!</strong>

    Abel didn''t smile, nor did he show he was enjoying Joaquin''s meaning of hunting. It bored him. Not because he somehow guessed this much when the crown prince invited him, but because there wasn''t really anything to look forward to this.

    ''nd,'' hemented mentally while his eyes glided over Joaquin, whoughed after shooting the man''s ankle, causing it to drop to his knees. ''I see no art in here.''<sub> </sub>

    For someone who had lived a very long time and died more than he could count, it was no surprise life and death for Abel had no meaning and value. Silencing someone was his way to literally silence the noise that he found annoying. It was easier and faster that way... but now, the majority in Haimirich were getting smarter, so they would go silent with just one look.

    But for Joaquin, killing was a means of entertainment.

    Abel wasn''t thinking his reasoning was far better than the crown prince. But in his eyes, it was boring. He found no beauty in it, nor did he feel disgusted about it. It was just... in, dull, and annoying бк Joaquin''s excitedughter was.

    Abel crossed his arms, leaning his side against the tree. ''Well, look at them.'' He mentallyughed at the mortified expression stered on the few knights.

    ''Now, that''s entertainment...'' Abel rocked his head, ignoring Joaquin''s excellent marksmanship and how many humans are left running for their life. It had always been entertaining to see people''s reactions when the naked truth and reality were standing right before them.

    Some knights didn''t even flinch at Joaquin''s enthusiasm whilst hunting humans to test his new rifle. Meaning, they had served the crown prince for quite some time. But others were horrified, as the crown prince wasn''t even close to his public image. Mixing new recruits and old ones was an excellent tactic, making the newly appointed knights follow their seniors and turn a blind eye to it.

    ''Should I work on my public image?'' Abel wondered, thinking everyone in Haimirich already knew he was a crazy tyrant and the knights weren''t even surprised since they were already aware of what they were signing up for. Never did Abel consider the tant lifestyle he shamelessly paraded, took away the fun such as this surprise Joaquin was giving his new people.

    He frowned as he imagined Conan''s nagging and ridiculing. He would certainly say,<strong> ''you''re over three decadeste!''</strong> since that was how old Abel was supposed to be.

    "Haha! What a great rifle!" Abel snapped his eyes and was brought back from his random thoughts when Joaquin shifted his attention to him. "Baron Albe, this is amazing."

    Abel slowly gazed at the people who ran for their lives, now lying on the grass from a distance. "It''s not the rifle, Your Royal Highness." He slowly faced Joaquin and smiled. "It''s Your Royal Highness''s marksmanship that is amazing." бк and he meant that sincerely.

    "Haha! You tter me, Baron Albe. I had been handling all weapons and бк" The crown prince quirked a brow as Hernan suddenly approached them.

    "Your Highness, it seemed some... unknown forces infiltrated the hunting grounds and бк assaulted the participants of the hunt," Hernan said in a quiet voice, but Abel heard him loud and clear. Before Hernan could continue, a soft gust of winding from the east reached their vantage point, and a scent wafted Abel''s nostrils, causing his entire body to tense up.

    "And Circe?" asked Joaquin almost immediately. His eyes darkened as Hernan hesitated for a second.

    "The crown princes... the people monitoring her werepromised and said they lost track of her --" Hernan couldn''t even finish his report when Joaquin roared.

    "Split up and search for the crown princess! There were more enemies who invaded the hunting grounds!" Joaquin didn''t wait for anyone as he rushed to his steed to search for her himself. "The crown princess''s safety is your priority!"

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness!"

 Chapter 282 What Are You?

    "The crown princess''s safety is your priority!"

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness!"

    Joaquin rushed to his steed to search for his wife,pletely forgetting about Abel and everything else. All he could think of was to make sure his wife would be left unharmed. So, as soon as he jumped to his steed, he sped away. Quitemendable of him to be concerned about his wife.

    The knights also prepared for the search, scattering around the clearing while some already left to follow the crown prince or to search the other areas. Others cleaned up the bodies Joaquin hunted down.

    While everyone was busy with their own assignments, Abel stayed frozen in the same spot. He was looking around, watching everyone take all directions except the east.

    "She''s there... in the east," he whispered, lowering his gaze as he felt invisible root vines grow underneath his feet and stilling him on the ground.

    Just now, he got a whiff of Aries blood. He knew her scent. Whether it was a small scratch or a grave injury, he would know, and the scent that wafted his nose told him she was bleeding... heavily. However, he was so stunned he couldn''t move. He couldn''t even think.

    "She''s bleeding..." he murmured, blinking ever so tenderly.

    As he repeated that, ''she''s bleeding,'' in his head, the lush grass underneath his feet withered until itpletely turned brown and then burnt ck. The dark hue crawled and spread as if an invisible fire was devouring all the life on the surface of the earth, yet no one seemed to have noticed this anomaly.

    "Ah..." Abel closed his eyes ever so slowly, stretching his neck from one side to the other. When he reopened his eyes, his mind, which was just on haywire, entered a strange state of calmness. The solitude he was so familiar with.

    He raised a thumb, pressing it against his canine until the tang of iron filled his mouth. He licked the blood on his thumb, dropping his hand as he breathed out calmly. Abel slowly turned his head in the east, breathing in, only to inhale her scent mixed in the soft breeze.

    "You..." His unreasonably longshes fluttered ever so tenderly as his pair of crimson eyes fell soft. "... hands..."

    As soon as thest syble fell from his mouth, Abel vanished from his vantage point faster than a blink of an eye.

    <strong>******</strong>

    "Abel... I''m dying..."

    <strong>GROWL!</strong>

    As the bear bellowed and opened its mouth to take a piece of Aries, a figure suddenly jump from the side. Keeping her in his embrace, the two of them rolled to the side and barely avoided the wild grizzly bear''s bite.

    "Shit!" Ismael clenched his teeth as he gazed at her, shocked dominated his face seeing that Aries was choking herself! "Hey! Did you finally snap?! Stop! Are you out of your mind!?" he yelled as he tried to unhook her fingers from her neck, wincing as he felt a striking pain in his leg.

    <strong>GRR...</strong>

    He froze as all the hair behind his neck raised at the low snarling from behind them. His eyes instantly went round, holding her finger still.

    Why did Ismael jump in here to help her?<sub> </sub>

    Ismael was galloping beyond the safe zones of the hunting grounds because of the attack. As he was speeding through the forest, he caught this bear in the corner of his eyes. He would''ve ignored it since it wasn''t paying him attention. However, when he saw the trail of blood and then looked back, he saw Aries writhing on the ground.

    The sight of her and the bear left his brain in a nk state.

    Deep in his heart, Ismael wanted to let her get devoured and just die. But no matter how rational that idea was, he found himself going back and jumping from his steed to save her in the nick of time from getting bitten. As he did so, he got his leg grazed by the sharp teeth of the bear.

    Now... he was in the same deep shit.

    "Damn!" Ismael gripped her finger and tried to take another finger, trembling in fear and anxiety as he felt the bear''s heating closer. In his mind, he should forget about her and flee for his life... or face the bear and wrestle with it бк maybe kill it.

    But Ismael did none of those because Aries... was dying!

    She would suffocate, and her lips had already turned purple. She needed air and this... made his heart sink because he wasn''t in a situation where he should worry about others. Aries of all people at that. This woman... although she was his ally, Ismael knew he couldn''t trust her. But here he was, putting her life over his when the bear was already breathing down his neck.

    Ismael trembled in fear as he clenched his teeth while foolishly taking her fingers off her neck. Yet, in his head, he was cursing himself for being stupid and foolish and everything but wise. For Pete''s sake! His head would be bitten off any minute, but he was focusing on this crazy woman who was choking herself to death!

    "Get a gripбн" his voice shook through his gritted teeth, relieved when she finally took a scant breath. "Damnбн Manuelбн fuckбн!"

    Ismael instantly froze when he heard a snarl behind him as the shadow of the bear stretched over him. With dted nk eyes, he knew the bear''s mouth stretched wide that his head could fit. Yet, his strength in holding her fingers remained to let her breathe.

    His face crumpled as hatred swelled up in his chest. "Iбн fucking hate my fucking selfбн!" were his expectedst words before he would get beheaded without a fight, hearing another bellow from the bear as it lurched to bite his head off.

    <strong>BAM!</strong>

    "Hands... off her."

    Ismael couldn''t even shut his eyes as he anticipated the quick pain before the swift release from thend of the living. But the pain didn''te. Instead, a strong gust of wind blew from his side and then followed by a heavy thud when the bear crashed against the bolder.

    His eyes were wide, twisting his neck to where the bear flew, and to his shock, the bear''s head was gone. All was there was its body and the ssh of blood. There was no trace of where its head rolled over or if it even rolled or simply got disintegrated into thin air.

    His breath hitched when he finally noticed a figure standing behind him. Ismael turned his head, lifting his eyes only to catch a towering man with bright green hair and an unsmiling side profile. But that wasn''t what brought terror to his heart.

    When Abel cocked his head back and his indifferent eyes fell on Ismael, thetter stared at those pair of bright, deep crimson orbs in dread.

    Ismael knew this peculiar man since he met him before the hunt began. However, Abel didn''t look like thisбн his eyes weren''t like this. Abel''s left eye was the same except for the murderous intent unraveling from it that could make anyone tremble under his gaze; the sclera on his right eye was ck while his iris was gold and his pupil was glowing in deep ruby.

    "Whatбн what are youбн?"

 Chapter 283 Now That Makes Little Sense

    "What... what are you...?"

    Ismael felt his tongue shrink back to his throat, gulping and hearing it in his ear. Under those glowing, deep rubies, cold sweats broke on his back. And yet, his fingers holding Aries''s stayed still for her to breathe.

    "What... am I?" Abel whispered, studying the horror reigning over the third prince''s face. He took steps on the same spot, facing the man, eyes down on him.

    "Why..." he cocked his head to the side, nonchnce dominating his face. "... would you want to know?"

    Abel had been watching this entire circus in this empire unfold right before his eyes. From the emperor, the crown prince, the other princes, and princesses, and the nobles, down to the peasants,mon бк and not-somon citizens. And he couldn''t tell whether this third prince was hapless or the opposite.

    His eyes fell on Ismael''s fingers, which had grown white while gripping a few of Aries''s fingers to stop thetter from choking herself. Her face was still pale and red, but she was gasping for air now, unlike the total suffocation previously.

    Ismael did all that... in a dreadful situation where his life was on the line.

    Now Abel finally got his answer.

    Ismael was neither hapless nor did the heavens side with him. This man... was simply a good man бк not pure, but he had a big heart.

    "You remind me of someone, Prince." Abel fluttered his eyshes, taking a step forward, which caused Ismael to tense up as he approach. "Someone... I deeply loathed."

    The third prince''s breath hitched and froze when Abel walked past him and squatted down to Aries. His neck twisted like a rusting screw, catching Abel staring down at Aries without much emotion on his countenance.

    "You should''ve let her die," Abel muttered, causing Ismael''s eyes to dte. "Sometimes... I wish for her to die so she can be with me forever."

    He raised a thumb to his lips, pressing his thumb against his canine until blood coated its tip. Just as Abel guided his bleeding thumb to her lips, he paused and snapped his eyes at Ismael.

    "You can let her go now." He jerked his chin towards Ismael''s hands. Thetter nodded on instinct, pulling his hands from her grip that was so powerful it was unbelievable it was a woman''s grip. As soon as his hands came off of her, Aries strangled herself once again and gasped.

    "What are you doing?" Ismael blurted out when he saw Abel guide his thumb to her lips. Thetter didn''t stop and remained silent, letting his blood drip into her throat, ignoring her strong bite. While Abel was forcing his blood into her system, his other hand pulled down the neckline of her hunting suit.

    "Hey!" Ismael yelled in panic, only for his breath to hitch when he received a side-eye from Abel. He heard his quiet sigh.

    "I told her not to take it off," Abel whispered, causing the third prince''s brows to crease in puzzlement.

    "You бк you two know each other...?" asked the third prince, but received nothing but silence. When his lips parted once again since it seemed his initial observation when he first met Abel was correct, his tongue rolled back when he heard a few thuds in their vicinity.

    Ismael looked around on instinct, only to see three figures from different directions. Two of them were wearing cloaks and were equally had a great stature. The only difference was that the other person had this broad and distinct shoulders. Meanwhile, the other one who came with those two was wearing a hunting suit.<sub> </sub>

    He had seen that face. Ismael wouldn''t forget this man''s youthful and charming face.

    Conan.

    "Dani!" Ismael was brought back from his trance when he heard one of the men under a cloak call in worry. He turned his head and saw the person rushing to their standpoint.

    Seeing the man''s face up close as his hood fell over his shoulder, his golden hair immediately caught Ismael''s eyes. Ismael''s gaze move down only to recognize this person''s face was far too stunning to be considered someone normal. Despite Dexter''s humble clothing, he still looked nobler than most of the noblemen Ismael had seen.

    Dexter''s pupils constricted seeing that Aries was strangling herself and her grip was just slowlying loose. His hands balled into a fist until they trembled, grinding his teeth until his fangs let themselves known.

    Ismael, who barely calmed himself down after meeting Abel''s eyes, was once again mortified at those long fangs.

    "Isaiah..." Dexter hissed as he lifted his sharp res at Isaiah, who was standing at a safe distance.

    "Ay ay! Marquess, why are you ming him again when he did nothing?!" Conan chimed in as he approached them until he was standing beside Ismael, hands on his hips. "I mean, it''s not fair..." He frowned at the sight of Aries and red daggers at Isaiah as well.

    "You! I shouldn''t have stopped Morro from poking your eyes when he was drooling over your eyeballs!"

    Isaiah blinked twice, darting his eyes between Dexter and Conan. But, like usual, he ignored them as his eyes veered to Aries and then to Abel, who was silently staring down at her.

    "My apologies, Your Majesty." He tilted his head down. "I didn''t know they will retaliate this way."

    "You don''t know?!" Dexter''s roar shook as the veins on the side of his jaw protruded. "You... don''t know?!"

    Isaiah remainedposed. "I don''t know."

    "You...!"

    "Stop it, Marquess," Abel spoke before Dexter could jump and assault Isaiah as his emotions were heightened. "Isaiah definitely knew they would retaliate, but I believed he didn''t know this was how."

    He paused and nced at Isaiah, and then at Dexter, before setting his eyes back to Aries. "It already happened and at the very least, we knew for a fact my darling has met one of them in the past... now that memory makes a little sense."

    "Youбн" Their brows arched when they heard Ismael speak, moving their attention to him, only to realize the third prince was here. "бн who are you people? Why are you addressing him as ''Your Majesty''?"

 Chapter 284 Hells Gate

    Humans were fascinating. They had the silliest and the most obvious questions. Still, they asked anyway, even when they already knew the answer.

    "Who... are you people? Why are you addressing him as ''Your Majesty''?"

    Abel simply cast Ismael a nonchnt nce when the question flew out of his pale lips. The third prince had seen Abel''s eyes, and then Dexter''s fangs. Isaiah and Conan were here too бк although he had already met Conan, which was supposed to make it easier for Ismael to guess who they were.

    "Third Prince, I didn''t know you were there!" Conan gasped, breaking the immediate silence that fell on them. "I don''t know if you''re lucky or gued with bad luck! Why are you here?"

    "I don''t think you are in the position to ask questions," Dexter announced in a dead tone, still parading his fangs as he rarely let out. "I will kill him."

    His deration caused Ismael''s shoulder to tense up and before he knew it, his feet already left the ground.

    "Wait!" Ismael held on to Dexter''s arm on instinct, wide-eyed. Thetter''s olive eyes slowly changed into red, lifting him with barely a hand.

    The third prince held his breath at the disturbingly stunning shift of his eye color. He wasn''t seeing things when he caught Abel''s eyes, which changed up close.

    These people... weren''t normal people.

    They were... monsters.

    "Yes, we are." Ismael''s breath hitched when Dexter hissed coldly. "We are, indeed, monsters d in human skin."

    Ismael looked around to see if anyone would help him. Much to his dismay, Conan was just looking back at him with no sign of stopping Dexter. Isaiah, on the other hand, had his eyes fixed on Aries. Left with no choice, Ismael gazed down at Abel, but his heart sank.

    Abel doesn''t care. All he cared about was Aries, who finally freed herself from her own hands.

    "Kill him... and you will kill her savior," Abel spoke after a minute while Aries was coughing and gasping. "She would''ve suffocated to death if not for him putting his neck in between that cursed animal''s teeth."

    "Really?" Conan raised his brows as he gazed up at Ismael. "You did?"

    "P бк please бк I won''t tell anyone about you... don''t kill me," Ismael stuttered as Dexter''s eyes never left him. "Please..."

    "Marquess, the third prince is crucial to your sister''s ns. She will be very disappointed if you snap his neck now. After all, he is not someone anyone can rece." Conan rubbed his chin before he sighed quietly, a bit surprised Ismael had gone that far to save Aries. He thought this third prince was all for show, but it turned out Aries was right about him.

    That was... no matter how Ismael faked it, he couldn''t change his nature. He was... foolishly principled for his own good.

    "And what makes you all think he won''t talk?" asked Dexter without taking his fiery gaze from Ismael, despite knowing the answer himself.

    "Why бк why will I purposely get myself killed?" Ismael returned with a shaking voice.

    "He is right, Marquess. Even before he can think about it, Lord Isaiah would have silenced him." Conan nodded and then nced at Abel, who was patting Aries''s back. He frowned as the emperor was oddly silent, staring at Aries with an inexplicable emotion in his eyes.<sub> </sub>

    Meanwhile, Dexter scorned as he stared deep into Ismael''s eyes. He knew he shouldn''t kill Ismael after saving Aries, but there was one reason he wanted to kill him. Ismael had seen him; he had seen his fangs, which he never asked to have.

    "Say a word to her and I will kill you myself," he warned, which sent a shiver down the third prince''s spine. "You''re lucky you got in here a few seconds earlier."

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    Ismael winced as soon as his buttocks hit the ground. Therge scratch on his leg wasn''t helping. When he nced up, Dexter was still staring down at him before he shifted his eyes to Abel.

    Abel carefully cradled her in his embrace and then carried her up when she had lost consciousness. Standing tall to his stature, his eyes studied her face. Aries had already calmed down. Although she was still pale, she wasn''tcking in oxygen, thus, out of harm''s way.

    "They had touched herбн" came out a whisper, fluttering his eyshes ever so tenderly. He carefully peeled his eyes away from Aries and faced his people, then cast Ismael a quick look.

    "Morro." To Ismael''s surprise, a figure suddenly appeared behind Abel out of nowhere while ck feathers floated down, swinging slowly in the air beforending on the ground. "Take that princeбн"

    "What бк"

    "бн back and treat his injuries." Abel''s eyes were cold but nonchnt despite the silly assumption in the prince''s head. "I don''t want him limping on the morrow."

    He paused as he raised his eyes, glossing over at Dexter, Isaiah, and Conan. His eyes narrowed as a glint flickered across his eyes. Everyone waited for Abel''s next order бк even Ismael was staring at him nkly while holding his breathing.

    But s, Abel was silent. He just stood there with Aries in his arms, as if that was all he had to say. Nothing more. Yet Isaiah, Dexter, and Conan''s eyes slowly dted as they all looked up. Ismael was baffled at their change of reaction when Abel didn''t even speak a word, nor did his somber expression changed

    After a second, the lines on the third prince''s forehead deepened as the bright surrounding dimmed. Before he could look up, a drop of liquidnded on his forehead. Ismael touched his forehead only to see a bit of what seemed to be blood. But since his hands were dirty, and he had a few scratches, he didn''t think much about it.

    However, the drop of liquid was followed by another until it pattered on his palm.

    "What theбн" Ismael cupped his hand and narrowed his eyes. The rain wasn''t clear. It looked like diluted blood. When he gazed up, he caught Abel''s unfazed countenance while his people were looking at him with horror in their eyes.

    "Send a word to the coven of witches in this empire. I only want the witches involved." Abel blinked ever so slowly and on the third blink, a powerful gust of wind came from his spot.

    Ismael''s eyes went round as he held his breath as the surrounding trees on this trail were cut as if the wind itself was a huge, sharp de cutting everything down. He gazed at Abel and saw him staring in a direction, following thetter''s gaze on instinct.

    There, in the very far distance where thest cut tree at least one kilometer from their vantage point, was someone in a cloak standing, facing them. Only then did Ismael realize Abel was talking to that person and not the people in here.

    "Tell them I want them in an hour orбн I will open the gates of hell." Abel tilted his head a little to the side as the side of his lips curled up subtly. "A trip to the devil''s denбн is definitely something they do not want."

    To Ismael and to everyone who doesn''t know the terror of the current phenomena would never understand the severity of Abel''s anger. However, those who had been with Abel, and even those who were simply aware that a person like him existed, knew one thing; the Hell''s Gate.

    To put it simply, this Maganti Empire... and everyone бк innocent or corrupt, men, women, elderly, children, human or not бк who was standing on this verynd would disappear... overnight.

 Chapter 285 She Will Die?

    "A trip to the devil''s denбн is definitely something they do not want."

    The figure standing a kilometer away from Abel turned around and, into the mist, the person disappeared. A quiet sigh slipped past his lips.

    p "Your Majesty!" Conan''s loud gasp snapped everyone from their trance, perking up on Abel''s side. "Are you serious?"</anda>

    "Never been serious, Conan." Abel''s eyes simply gloss over his face before ncing over his shoulder. "Morro."

    "Yes..." came out a deep voice before Morro, under the in, old cloak, dragged his feet to Ismael, and slumped on the ground. He bent over, grabbing Ismael on his bicep, and with a quick pull, Ismael was standing on his feet.

    "Wait --"

    Ismael''s eyes went wide as Morro didn''t listen to his plea as he carried him on his shoulder like a sack of wheat. Never in his life, he was carried like this, but Morro didn''t even break a sweat as he securely wrapped his arm around his waist, elbow up.

    "Isaiah, the only entry you will allow in this ce are the witches I want. No one... will leave," Abel told him without even giving Isaiah a look as he gazed at Dexter. "Calm down, Marquess."

    "Tch... I will kill all the witches the second they meet my eyes."

    Abel stared into Dexter''s eyes before averting his gaze. "Suit yourself." His eyes thennded on Morro before nodding.

    "Your Majesty, wait--!" Conan stretched his hand out, but Abel and Morro disappeared with a snap of a finger. His lips curved down grumpily.

    "Will they return to where everyone was?" he wondered, as it seemed Abel nned to take her back to her tent. "He will give us more work with how many people are in there."

    "Why do you even care about having more work when this entire ce will literally cease to exist in about an hour?" Dexter scorned as he red in the direction where Abel and Morro disappeared to. He ruffled his hair in irritation, partially ming himself for taking his eyes off of Aries even for a second.

    Dexter had been watching Aries from afar, just in case, she would be in danger. But after watching her ever since he stepped foot in thisnd, he had growncent since she had everything under control. Therefore, he thought he could focus on hunting for her.

    Dexter let out a deep exhale as he straightened his back. But just as he moved his upper body forth, Conan asked.

    "Marquess, where are you going?" Conan tilted his head to the side.

    "Where else? To my sister."

    "Wait бк" Conan scrunched his nose up as Dexter run off as soon as thest syble left his mouth. He clicked his tongue and nced at Isaiah. Seeing thetter stare into the mist, his expression grew uglier, ming Isaiah for what happened to Aries.<sub> </sub>

    "You said you can handle the witches in this ce, Duke. Look what they did to Lady Aries!" he harrumphed when he couldn''t take it anymore as someone needed to address this, since Abel didn''t have the energy to do so. "You are already aware the witches were cognizant of the presence of a pureblood in their territory! Now, they know that Lady Aries --"

    "Lady Aries knew them already." The rest of Conan''s remarks were shoved back into his throat when Isaiah gave him a side-eye. "That''s why His Majesty wants them here since... they had already set their eyes on Lady Aries long ago."

    "Witches... there''s never a good thing thates out of affiliating with them if you''re not one of them," he added solemnly. His jaw tightened as he clenched his teeth. "Lady Aries... needs to wake up or she will sleep for a long time. Worse. She won''t wake up anymore."

    "She will die?!" Conan gasped as all this witchcraft and itsplicated rules were something he hadn''t mastered even after all these years.

    "Mhm." Isaiah nced up, and the rain met his pale and stoic face. "The Lady Aries we all knew will. It seemed Maleficent... the most wicked and powerful witch in history chose her."

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Back in the open expanse where everyone''s tents were set up were frantic nobles at the dreadful news that had returned from the hunting grounds. Many returned injured, some dead. There were still people out there on the hunting grounds who hadn''t returned yet, and one of them was the crown princess.

    Inez balled her hands into a fist as she watched knights either carrying injured nobles or setting off to search for more people. She heard about the attack and she didn''t need to ask anyone how bad it was.

    "Your Highness." A knight came to her side, making her immediately perk up.

    "The crown princess?" she asked, almost out of breath, heart pounding against her chest and getting louder with every passing second.

    "They hadn''t found her yet." The knight hung his head low while she paced back and forth, biting the tip of her thumb to think clearly.

    When Inez stopped pacing, she twisted her neck in the direction where the crown prince''s entourage wasing from. Joaquin was riding his steed as it trot before halting, eyes on Hernan, who was standing beside Joaquin''s horse.

    "They hadn''t found her?" Her voice shook upon seeing the grim expression that turned up on her brother''s face. "Prepare my steed. I will go and look for her myself."

    "But Your Highness, it''s dangerous бк" The knight bit his tongue when she red at him, eyes bloodshot. "Your бк"

    The knight abruptly stopped as he caught a figure from the corner of his eyes. He slowly turned his head, and seeing how his brows knitted, Inez followed his gaze.

    There,ing out of the woods, were two figures carrying each person. One was a towering figure of a man d with a cloak carrying a man on his shoulder and the other was a man with bright green hair carrying a woman in his arms. For reasons everyone couldn''t understand, all their attention shifted to those two figures and their eyes fell on the unconscious and injured woman.

    The moment Inez''s eyesnded on Aries, her heart sank, and before she could think twice, she yelled. "Your Royal Highness!"

 Chapter 286 Silence

    "Your Royal Highness!"

    Joaquin snapped his eyes when he heard someone call in a panic. Fear, worry, and relief clouded his head, but seeing that his wife was brought back, all he could think of was to take care of her. He jumped out of the horse and rushed to Abel, whom he believed found his wife.

    "Circe!" he called as he jogged, but Abel didn''t stop from his strides. Joaquin only halted when thetter cast him an indifferent side-eye, which, for some reason, rang all the emergency bells in his head. He would have listened to his gut feeling, but that was his wife in another man''s arms.

    Joaquin resumed while Abel continued to head to Aries''s tent without slowing down. When he was walking beside Abel, puzzlement stered across his face.

    "Baron Albe, my wifeбн"

    "It''s raining, Crown Prince." Abel''s reply was nonchnt without casting Joaquin a look. "My darling needs rest."

    "What бк"

    "Silence."

    Before Joaquin could even process the insolence of that man, he froze like a statue. Not just him, but every single one in the surrounding stopped moving. Men and women, those who were under the pouring rain and under the tent, stood frozen, bearing the same expression on their faces.

    Ismael, who was being carried by Morro on his shoulder, raised his head and looked around. Only humans stopped moving, while horses and animals maintained their mobility and consciousness. As they walked past Joaquin, Ismael furrowed his brows, seeing that Joaquin''s mouth was left ajar, standing in the same position, eyes clouded.

    "What бк what''s going on?" he blurted out in disbelief while his heart thudded against his chest loudly.

    "They''re alive," Morro returned, still following Abel closely from behind.

    "What?"

    "His Majesty simply stopped the cirction of their blood... it''s easier if you think like that," Morro exined in simple terms. "Although their blood is still circting, it''s only enough to keep them all alive... for now."

    "..." Morro''s exnation wasplete nonsense and impossible. But then again, everything Ismael had witnessed ever since Abel rescued them from that bear had been something beyond hisprehension.

    All Ismael could do was stare nkly at the people around the vast expanse while he was being carried to who knows where. Until they reached a certain area and the people grew tiny in his perspective, no one moved under that pouring rain, nor did they make even the slightest sound.

    Deep in his heart, Ismael wished this was all a dream бк a nightmare. Because if this were all real, then... everything Ismael had believed in this world would crumble down.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    "Your Majesty!" Gertrude stopped pacing back and forth as she gasped as soon as Abel and Morro entered Aries''s tent. Her eyes fell on Aries and that second, her heart sank.

    "Mydy!"

    "Prepare her a change of clothes," ordered Abel as he made his way towards the bed.<sub> </sub>

    "Ye бк yes!"

    While Gertrude hurriedly prepared for Aries''s change of clothes and everything she needed to clean Aries and her injuries, Curtis could only stare at Abel as he ced Aries on the bed. Meanwhile, Morro put down Ismael, and thetter held onto the table to keep himself from falling.

    "What happened?" Curtis sprung up to his seat as he rushed to the other side of the bed. As soon as he got a closer look at Aries, his heart clenched. Blood was all over her head and clothes. He heard about themotion outside, but he didn''t think much about it since he was confident Aries would be fine. Or rather, he simply assumed it was part of her ns.

    Howe she would return with fatal injuries?

    "You..." Curtis froze when he heard Ismael''s voice, twisting his neck only to see the same shocked expression stered on the third prince''s face. "... can talk?"

    "What is he doing here?"

    "He saved Lady Aries," Morro answered out of the goodness of his heart. "And he can talk because Lord Abomination lifted the curse ced on him."

    Morro smiled subtly as he darted his eyes between Ismael and Curtis while standing in between them. Both men gazed up at his towering figure and instantly noticed how his deep voice didn''t fit his boyish face. But they didn''t dwell on that unnecessary detail, as Ismael and Curtis simply gazed at each other for a second before shifting their attention to the people on the bed.

    "Is she alright?" asked Curtis, ignoring the third prince since they wouldn''t take him here if they weren''t sure he could keep secrets.

    Ismael also waited for Abel to answer, even though he shouldn''t be interested in her well-being. But his gut feeling told him Aries should be fine. Or else, this emperor... would surely wipe them all out. He could only think of the worse if something happened to Aries.

    Abel didn''t respond, raising his gaze at Curtis. His eyes didn''t reach thetter''s eyes as his gaze settled on the ne dangling around his neck.

    "I told her not to remove it," he muttered, causing Curtis to crease his brows and gaze down to see the ne. "Why are you wearing that?"

    Curtis couldn''t find his voice for a moment. "She said she didn''t want to lose it or break it while hunting, so she asked me to safeguard it temporarily."

    Abel didn''t reply anymore as he shifted his eyes back to Aries. His eyes fell soft, brushing her jaw with the back of his hand gently.

    "Silly," he whispered. "There''s a reason it was put in something where it can be shattered. So you can break it easily with your teeth."

    There was a long silence that descended in the tent as neither of them talked for a few minutes. All they could hear was the sound of rain and nothing else. Ismael had taken a seat around the table, knees still trembling from shock. Curtis could only stare at her with worry in his eyes.

    The silence broke when Gertrude returned, soaked, and expression pale as if she had seen something horrifying. But she was still carrying a bowl of water and finished her objective.

    "Your Majesty, outsideбн everyone бк"

    "Silence her, Morro."

    And before Gertrude could even process Abel''s orders, her vision went nk and the bowl of freshwater fell, only for Morro to catch it with his palm under.

 Chapter 287 We Had A Feast

    "What are you doing?"

    Curtis gasped, watching Morro swiftly catch the bowl of water on his right hand while catching Gertrude by the waist on his left. Thetter didn''t even flinch at his efficient movements as he stood straight.

    "I didn''t kill her," Morro defended himself.

    "Take her to the next tent and let her rest, Morro." Morro shifted his attention to Abel. "Take those two with you. I will take care of her."

    "Alright." Morro sauntered towards the stand near the bed and ced the bowl of water. He then cast Curtis a look and tipped his head towards the entrance of the tent.

    "You heard His Majesty, or shall I carry you? I don''t mind carrying --"

    "I can walk." Curtis blurted out reluctantly, giving Abel and then Aries a worried look. "Please take care of her."

    Although Curtis didn''t receive a reply from Abel, he still tilted his head down and dragged his feet to follow Morro. As the two of them marched towards the entrance, Morro stopped beside Ismael and bent over.

    Ismael jolted and raised his hands up. "I can walk!" he announced, making Morro frown.

    "Alright."

    "Goodness..." he heaved a sigh of relief, casting Morro aplicated look as thetter seemed to have taken a liking to make use of his shoulder. Knowing what monsters these people were, Ismael, despite his trembling knees, forced himself to follow them.

    He looked back onest time as they were by the entrance, letting out a deep huff. Curtis also looked back and his eyesnded on Abel, who was sitting on the edge of the bed while watching Aries. These two men realized something right at this moment.

    That man... never cared about anything else other than Aries.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Since the huntingpetition in the empire wouldst for three days, the participants had their own tents where they would stay for the next three days. Next to the crown princess''s tent was a smaller tent for her servant and knights. So, Morro took Gertrude to her tent while Curtis and Ismael followed them.

    "Can you stop pacing?" Ismael grumbled in annoyance, gazing at Curtis from the chair near the open entrance of the tent. "You''re making me woozy."

    Curtis stopped and gazed at the third prince. Morro was still with them, wrapping Gertrude with a quilt like a cocoon to ''dry'' her up.

    "How did you save her?" asked Curtis to Ismael. "How did you find her?"

    "What''s with that tone?" Ismael frowned as he red at him.

    "Why? Do you want me to bow and ask politely?"

    "This fucker..."

    "How?" Curtis repeated with a stern voice as he walked in the same spot, eyes on Ismael. "How did you find her?"

    "I don''t need to answer that."

    "You..." Curtis''s eyes clouded in red as he marched towards Ismael and grabbed him by the cor. "Did you betray her?"

    "What?!" Ismael ground his teeth as he gripped Curtis'' wrist.<sub> </sub>

    "She''s not someone who will end up in that state if no one betrayed her with her ns. She took you in and trusted you бк you probably sabotaged her ns."

    "Hey, are you --" Ismael stopped himself as it seemed exining was pointless. Curtis already pushed all the me on Ismael and believed them without hearing his side of the story. Being a part of the royal family was enough reason for Curtis to point his finger at him.

    "The crown princess betrayed her own self." Before Ismael could resort to violence, Morro spoke. "She is lucky the third prince is around the area and helped her from suffocating to death whilst risking his own. He saved the crown princess, no doubt. But His Majesty saved both of them."

    Both Curtis and Ismael turned their head in Morro''s direction only to notice the ball of white on the bed. Thetter raised his head and blinked.

    "She will be fine now," Morro reassured while patting the ball of white on the bed.

    "She will suffocate!" Ismael yelled and pushed Curtis away, ring at him before setting his attention back to Morro.

    "No, she will not. It''s cold, so I''m simply keeping her warm," Morro exined.

    "You wrapped even her head!" Ismael pointed to the cocoon in distress. "Goodness! The crown princess will kill you if you kill that little servant?"

    He pinched the space between his brows as Morro wrapped Gertrude like a mummy. Ismael let out a deep exhale and stomp his feet towards the bed. He shook his head and took out a small knife from his waist and then carefully ripped the quilt for her to breathe.

    "How can you wrap her with theseyers of clothes? You''re simply restricting her to breathe. Also, where did you get all these?" he continued, realizing Morro was inept at these things. Hence, he reduced the quilt.

    Meanwhile, Curtis watched Ismael help Morro take off a few quilts since thetter was correct. Thatyer of the nket would kill Gertrude. It might keep her warm, but she would eventually suffocate.

    "What do you mean Aime sabotaged herself?" Curtis asked after a minute, still standing rooted in his spot.

    "Your princess is mad!" Ismael replied, ripping the quilt to hasten their task. "I found her choking herself; she didn''t even know there''s some wild bear drooling over her."

    "It''s a witch''s work," Morro chimed in. "Lady Aries is still sane... a bit."

    Ismael raised his gaze at him and nced at his razor teeth. "What the hell are you people?" he asked after mustering enough courage and strength to inquire once more.

    "I''m a bird."

    "..."

    "Never mind." Ismael shook his head after a moment of silence, as it seemed Morro was the type who shouldn''t be asked. Just then, a memory crossed his head, making him gaze back and study Morro.

    "You''re that person," he paused. "That person that night. The one who cleaned up the knights Sir Conan wiped out."

    Morro nodded. "I am the one who brought him the horse."

    "What did you do to them?" asked Ismael, while Morro tilted his head to the side. "The carriage and the knights simply vanished. How did you do it?"

    "Ate them."

    "What?"

    "I told you. I''m a bird and I eat animal and human carcass." Morro shrugged before pointing his finger up. "I flew and carried them to the mountaintop where the vultures hang out. We had a feast."

 Chapter 288 Coming Out Of The Blissful Ignorance

    "I flew and carried them to the mountaintop where the vultures hang out. We had a feast."

    Horror filled Ismael''s eyes as he scrutinized Morro''s expression. He said all that with a straight face as if it was something normal!

    "What are you people...?" he blurted out once again as if he hadn''t received a proper answer to this question.

    Yes, they were monsters. However, just what sort of monsters?

    There were myriads of questions in Ismael''s head, but only that question seeded in escaping his mouth. Until now, he could barely keep himself together, but every time he would hear something like this from them... it gave him goosebumps. This fear that he kept squashing down persistently crept up to his heart.

    "I''m a bird." Morro frowned. "I''m not lying."

    "Hah..." Ismael furrowed his brows when he heard Curtis snicker, turning his head only to see Curtis take a seat near the open entrance of the tent.

    "Everyone in this empire thinks they are that great when they didn''t even know that in this world... humans aren''t the highest creatures in the food chain." Curtis kept his eyes outside, watching the rain pour, creating little pools on the muddy ground. "This is why you are not as influential as the crown prince. You are ignorant."

    "What?"

    Curtis cast Ismael a quick look. "Don''t worry. You''re not the only one who was unaware of their existence. They were many of us." He set his eyes back outside, studying the few unmoving knights under the pouring rain.

    "Some countries chose to keep their existence a secret, while others recognized them. After all, there were those kingdoms... who are ruled by them," he added.

    "Them?" asked Ismael, intrigued by this piece of information. "What do you mean by them?"

    "Vampires." Curtis slowly set his eyes back to him. "Werewolves, bears, witches, faes, and many more... like him." He jerked his chin in Morro''s direction.

    "What..." Ismael''s face crumpled as he tried to absorb this information. "Impossible... those are just..."

    "Myths?" he nearly choked when Curtis continued his remarks. "I also thought the same before until... a witch put a curse on me. Thanks to the crown prince."

    "Joaquin?"

    Curtis pressed his lips into a thin line as he lowered his eyes. "Yes, that man and his affiliation with a witch. He cursed me and if I tried to break it, I will be in pain." He let out a quiet sigh as he recalled the pain he had to endure.

    "On top of the tortures to break my spirit, he wasn''t satisfied and wanted to make sure I will always be a nobody," he added under his breath, recalling the time Joaquin invited a witch after using him as a punching bag to release his anger towards Aries and Carlos бк the time Carlos touched his doll, Aries.

    Curtis wouldn''t forget that time. He would never forget the wicked grin stered on the crown prince''s face and the words that came out of his mouth.

    "What is so good about you that she used to look at you that way?"

    <strong>Yes. </strong>

    It was ridiculous for Curtis to realize the reason he was in that situation was that Joaquin was insecure. Curtis couldn''t believe the sole reason he was being tortured was that he was Aries''s friend. So, to make himself feel better, Joaquin asked the help of a witch to make sure Curtis would bark.<sub> </sub>

    He had to live for years barking and treating Joaquin as a dogman.

    "That''s when I realized... there were even more creatures in this world," Curtis continued after a moment of silence, snapping his eyes outside. "But... the crown prince is by far the cruelest monster I had ever met. His soul deserves to be burned with eternal fire and be damned."

    Ismael lowered his eyes as he let all this little information register in his head. His eyes narrowed a secondter before hisplexion grew pale.

    "My father, the emperor..."

    "He''s dead." His breath hitched when Curtis replied without a second hesitation. "Not literally dead, because he''s still breathing. But there''s not much of a difference."

    "What do you mean?"

    "He means the emperor simply became a mindless monster." This time, Morro happily chimed in, as this wasn''t a secret... at least, for them. "His Majesty had be your father''s friend."

    "What?" the third prince gasped in disbelief as he balled his hand into a fist. "What do you mean he became a mindless monster --"

    "Not all monsters have intellect," Curtis exined. "Especially if they were originally humans and attempted to be a vampire."

    Morro nodded as Curtis was quite informed about these things. "In other words, the emperor drank a vampire''s blood but didn''t morph sessfully. I presume it is because the blood isn''tpatible with the vampire''s blood."

    "So, he is kept in a cage to feed on human blood. I envy his lifestyle. He doesn''t have to hunt for food and all he needs to do is growl," Morro added with a deep sigh.

    Ismael''s lips quivered as he hung his head low, processing the situation about his father. If they told him these things in a different situation, he wouldugh it off or use them of jinxing his father, the emperor. But everything he had witnessed today was something beyond hisprehension.

    He was, indeed, kept in the bliss of ignorance.

    Not just these monsters d in human skin and could blend with humans perfectly, but just the sheer thought Joaquin knew all this revealed the significant gap between the two.

    "Joaquinбн" came out a shaking voice as he raised his head, darting his eyes between Curtis and Morro. "бн does he know about Father?"

    Curtis snickered because the answer was obvious. "You know the answer to that, Your Highness." He shook his head mildly.

    "If you want the answer, then why don''t you recall the crown prince''s expression when you used the emperor''s name to avoid the trial?"

    <strong>And that hit Ismael. </strong>

    His eyes slowly dted as all the memory from that night in Modesto''s residence until now reyed in his head. And everythingбн everything felt like puzzle pieces slowlying to their rightful ce, giving him a proper picture and a different understanding than the first time.

    Joaquin knewбн and he was definitely involved in the emperor''s demise.

    All to secure the throne.

 Chapter 289 Im A Monster

    <strong>Meanwhile...</strong>

    Aries grunted as her eyeballs flickered underneath her eyelids. She weakly opened her eyes. Seeing the roof of the tent, a deep exhale slipped past her lips.

    ''I feel weak...'' she thought, closing her eyes once more to recall what happened to her. Her expression grew sour when she recalled snippets of the spooked horse, then jumping from it and hitting her head.

    Aries raised a hand to her temple, feeling the bandage around her head.

    ''It happened.'' She sighed deeply, dropping her hand to her side. Her eyes fluttered open once again and blinked weakly until her hazy vision grew clearer.

    ''About that winter...'' her jaw tightened as memories of that winter when she saw someone and then feeling like she was drowning etched in her head. ''What did she say?''

    "Circe."

    Aries flinched when she heard a voice from the side of her bed. When she turned, she saw Joaquin leaning his upper body forward. Worry and relief mixed in his eyes as he scrutinized her.

    "Do you feel pain anywhere, Circe?" he asked, brushing her forehead with his thumb. "I thought I will lose you."

    His eyes were watery as he heaved a deep sigh of relief, staring at her straight in the eye. There was no vestige of a lie in his eyes. Joaquin was sincerely terrified of losing her. But his sincerity didn''t move her even a bit.

    All she did was stare at him silently. Despite her paleplexion, her eyes slowly filled with hatred and disgust.

    "Circe, are you --"

    "Go away." She turned her head to the other side. "Go. I don''t want to see you. Not you."

    "Circe..."

    "Go!" she yelled, eyes heating as she cast him a re. "I don''t care anymore. Go. I don''t want to see you, Joaquin. It''s all your fault..."

    Joaquin''s face crumpled, confused at her anger. However, he med it on her concussion and the fright she went through.

    He rocked his head, retrieving his hand that was reaching for her. "Alright. I understand you don''t want to see me now and you are confused." He smiled bitterly.

    "If you need anything, there''s a bell right next to you. Ring it. My tent is just right next to yours." Joaquin huffed weakly before tilting his head down. "Rest for tonight, my wife. A lot had happened, but I''m sincerely d you''re safe now and back to me."

    Aries held her breath as hatred swelled up in her chest at hisst remarks. She watched him saunter towards the entrance of the tent, sliding it to the side before departing it.

    "Back to you...?" she scoffed in disdain, balling her hand into a fist. Her eyes remained fixated on the entrance, seeing shadows outside. She waited for minutes and after some time, Aries propped her elbows to assist herself to sit up. She winced at the pain in her abdomen, making her hold her side as she hunched in slightly.

    The pain was still there, but she felt the tight bandage around her torso to reduce the difort.

    Aries let out a deep exhale as sitting upright all on her own was a total struggle, but the difort would not stop her. She flung her feet out of the bed, watching her movement to reduce the pain across her body. It didn''t take long for her to adjust to her limited movement as Aries stood beside the bed, looking around cautiously.<sub> </sub>

    "I can''t stay here," she mumbled with her quivering lips, clutching her skirt, and dragging her feet to the small back entrance of the tent. Good thing she made time in this tent to create a small exit behind the rack of clothes for emergency situations.

    Aries ground her teeth as she dragged the rack away, creating a small gap for her to fit in. She dragged her feet while keeping her palm across her abdomen. She slipped through the small gap, cutting the thin thread to open the pre-made exit.

    Through the small gap, she peeked to see if there was anyone outside. To her relief, no one seemed to have walked around the back of her tent. So Aries immediately slipped herself out of the tent.

    As soon as she was out and met the chilly breeze of the silent night, Aries hugged herself and shivered. She had no clothes other than her chemise.

    ''Where is he?'' she wondered, looking around, confused. ''Never mind.''

    Aries took a deep breath, but not deep enough to hurt her lungs. When she reopened her eyes and breathed out through her lips, she discreetly limped to find the person she needed the most right now. Her hand was clutching her bicep, but before she could go far away from where she came from, a dark voice came from behind.

    "Where are you going?" she froze as soon as she recognized his voice. "Darling, where could you possibly go wearing just that?"

    Her eyes fell soft as heat traveled and filled them. She swallowed a mouthful of air and turned around, only to see that familiar, dangerous beauty.

    "Abel," came out a whisper, biting her bottom lip to suppress the sobs that were tempting to escape from her.

    "Yes, darling?" Abel tilted his head to the side, stretching his hand out, waiting for her to take it. "Let''s go back. It''s cold here."

    She shook her head as her eyes betrayed her when one tear fell from them. He frowned.

    "Is there something wrong, darling?" he inquired.

    "Did youe for me?" she asked back, watching him furrow his brows. "In the woods... did youe for me?"

    There was a moment of silence at her seemingly out-of-the-blue question. Abel stared at her with his usual unreadable expression, seeing the desperation in her eyes.

    "Did you call for me?" he asked instead of an answer.

    "I did."

    "No, darling. You didn''t."

    "I did, Abel." She choked, clutching her shoulder even tighter. "I called for your help... in my heart."

    That second, another tear rolled down her cheek as she looked around to distract herself from crying. She knew she didn''t call, <strong>''help,''</strong> verbally, but in her heart, his name was the only name she could think of. Aries was aware she was being ''unreasonable'' since there was no way he would hear her heart.

    However... it scared her. Not the fact that she nearly died, but the fact that...

    "I''m a monster," she whispered, raising her eyes ever so slowly to meet those pair of dangerous deep red.

 Chapter 290 Dont Go

    "I''m a monster," she whispered, raising her eyes ever so slowly to meet those pair of dangerous deep red. "I was scared, Abel... I was terrified."

    "Come here, darling."

    "No." Aries shook her head profusely, taking a step back on instinct. "I will hurt you."

    "You can''t hurt me."

    "I can!" Her breath hitched. "I''m holding a knife. I will stab you."

    Abel''s eyes veered to her hand that was clutching her bicep and caught the knife in between. "That won''t kill me, darling."

    "It won''t, but it will hurt you!" Aries raised her voice, not caring if someone else would hear her. She took several steps back when he took a step, shaking her head.

    "I just want to see you and ask if you came to me." She started pacing, biting her thumb, unknowingly pointing the knife right at her chest. "So, did youe to me? Did you find me? Abel?"

    Aries perked up and set her eyes back to him. Her brows rose as she waited for his answer.

    "So?" she urged once more when a full minute had passed in silence.

    "Why do you need the answer, darling?" he asked instead, causing her frown to deepen. "And why are you even asking me that question?"

    "Because бк" her breath hitched before she hung her head low. "Because... because..." бк because she might not seek help anymore ever again. Or, she might not call for his name once again, or even think of calling for help the next time and just swallow death.

    There were a plethora of reasons she wanted to know if Abel came to her, but at the same time, nothing could perfectly describe her heart. She was only certain of one thing and that was she needed to hear his answer. It didn''t matter if it was a lie or the truth, since she could tell anyway.

    "Did you..." Aries trailed off as she caught two pairs of shoes in front of her, raising her head only to see him up close. "...e to me?"

    "Even if you are in hell or in heaven, darling." Abel bent over, clipping his fingers in between the de that was aimed at his side, eyes on her. He pinched the metal so hard until its crack crawled from the tip to the handle.

    "I wille for you, I will hear you, I will recognize your scent," he continued, wiping the corner of her eyes with his thumb gently. "You don''t have to call for me, because I won''t allow anyone to take you away from me. Even death doesn''t have the right."

    Her face crumpled as tears continuously rolled down her cheek. "I''m scared."

    "Don''t be." Abel cupped her cheek and looked at her deep in the eye. "I''m here, darling."

    Aries held his wrist and unknowingly dropped the knife. "They will hurt you," she blurted out without realizing what she was talking about.

    "They can''t."

    "They can!" she argued desperately, tugging his wrist, hoping he would listen. "The ck shroud! It''s inside me! I''m a monster бк I''m not joking, Abel! Call me crazy but please, please, please, believe me! They are going to kill you, no... me too... they will --"

    "Darling." Aries snapped her eyes and looked back at him, only to see him sigh faintly. "Don''t let them get inside your head."

    Abel leaned in until his forehead was resting against her. "The only way for them to hurt me is by hurting you. They will break me by breaking you. Don''t let them do that to you."

    "But..."

    "Shh..." he shushed, opening his eyes ever so tenderly. He drew his head back until their face was a palm length away from each other. "I will be fine and I will make sure you will be as well."<sub> </sub>

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she held the back of his hand that was cupping her face.

    "Promise?" she squeezed his hand mildly. "Give me your word, Abel. That you won''t leave me too."

    He nodded. "I promise."

    A deep sigh of relief slipped past her lips because she could always trust his words. Abel might be fickle, but he never goes back to his word. His words were his bonds, and promises were something he valued.

    "Let''s go back, darling," Abel suggested, but she shook her head immediately.

    "Joaquin is there," she answered, gripping his hand tightly. "I don''t want to be with him. I want to stay with you, Abel."

    "Hahбн what a dilemma."

    "Please?"

    "And your n?"

    "I don''t care!" Aries yelled, jumping a step closer to him. "Stay with meбн just tonight."

    The side of his lips curled up subtly as his eyes grew gentle. "I don''t ever recall saying no to you." He bent over and nted a peck on her left eye.

    "Staying with you had always been the n."

    Aries smiled weakly as she finally nodded, agreeing to return with him. She watched him take one step and in one swift move, her feet left the ground and she was in his arms. She wrapped her limbs around him on instinct, tightening her grip around his neck as she squeeze herself into him.

    "We won''t fit there," she whispered, leaning her forehead against the side of his neck.

    "Mhm."

    Aries frowned but hid her face in him while securing her arms around his neck. "My head hurts," came out a muffled voice, only to feel a soft peck on top of her head.

    "That''s why you will rest more," he said soothingly.

    "Don''t go."

    "I won''t." Abel walked over to the front of the tent leisurely, not caring about the knights around. The knights didn''t seem to have seen him, though. No one stopped him from entering the crown princess''s tent.

    "Darling," he called, but Aries tightened her embrace. A quiet sigh escaped his mouth as Abelid her down on the bed with her still clinging to him.

    "Don''t go," she repeated, loosening her arms, but just enough for him to draw his head back so they could look at each other. "You promised."

    He smiled. "I did." His eyes softened as he rubbed her chin with the back of his hand. "But it should be me telling you that, darling."

    "Don''t go," he repeated the words she kept telling him. "Come back to me, my love."

 Chapter 291 [Bonus Chapter]Love You The Same

    "Come back to me, my love."

    Aries''s brows creased while her smile lines faded. "What do you mean?" she whispered, staring deep into the eyes hovering over her.

    "This... isn''t real, darling," came out a low and airy voice. "Everything... this bed, this dress, this tent, everything darling... isn''t real."

    "It''s real," she argued weakly, cupping his jaw and feeling his faint warmth. "You are. I can feel you."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips. "But I can''t." Abel brushed her jaw with his fingertips, eyes scrutinizing each of her features.

    "I can''t feel your warmth, your body, or your touches... and it''s killing me." He grazed her lips with his thumb. "It''s fine with me if I can бк I would stay here with you to keep you all for myself. But I hate the time and the notion of its limitations because it never applied to me."

    "What... what do you mean by that?"

    "Darling, you can''t die here." His eyes fell soft as his hand crawled to hers that was cupping his jaw. "Because if you do, I can''t bring you back to live with me for eternity. Forever is my n."

    "I''m not... dying, Abel," Ariesughed weakly and awkwardly. She couldn''t understand him. But somehow... her heart does. A part of her believed what he was saying was true, but Aries was stubborn. She simply didn''t want to believe it.

    "You''re scaring me, Abel," she confessed under her breath. "Stop talking like this. We will not part. I won''t leave you."

    There was a moment of silence between them, eyes fixed on each other. In the end, Abel simply nodded and adjusted his position until he was lying beside her. As if on cue, Aries squeezed herself to him with her head on his shoulder, arm over his torso, hand on his tatted back.

    He gazed down as her embrace was tighter than usual. "I''m not going anywhere, darling. Unless you chase me out."

    "That will not happen," came out a muffled reply, burying her face in his inked chest. "You stay."

    "And if your husbandes?"

    "I don''t care." Her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, pulling his firm body against her. "Don''t leave."

    Abel massaged her head, his fingers through her hair. "Still scared?" he asked. It took a full minute before she nodded, pulling him once more as if the nonexistent gap between their bodies was still too wide for her.

    "I''m here now," he said under his breath. "No one will hurt you. Even I am not allowed toy a finger on you."

    "I''m still scared," she whispered, muscles trembling at the thought of that winter. "It''s cold... it reminds me of that winter."

    Silence once again fell on them as Abel casually rubbed her back to ease her fear.

    "It was one cold winter night when Javier and Inez wanted to hunt and chose me as their prey," she exined after a moment of silence. "I know it''s pathetic to even run, knowing I will only make a fool out of myself. But I still did."

    She paused as she recounted the events she had almost forgotten among the many horrific things she went through.

    "That''s where I met her," she continued, gripping his back tightly. "I''m scared of her, Abel."

    Abel remained silent, listening, patting her back gently.

    "I was damned," she added under her breath. "I feel like I''m losing my mind."<sub> </sub>

    "Mhm."

    Aries mustered her courage and raised her head to look at him. Much to her dismay, he didn''t have any strong reaction to it.

    "You don''t believe me?" she asked with a shaking voice.

    "I do."

    "Your tone tells me otherwise."

    She heard his quiet sigh. "Because I don''t care if you are damned, darling."

    "You''re not scared?"

    "And why would I fear you?" he asked as he lowered his head, poking the point of her nose. "Just because you can kill me?"

    Aries frowned, not knowing where this conversation would head once again. Yet, there was this part of her who understood it perfectly. Strange how she could and could not understand them at the same time.

    "I''m a monster," she repeated, stressing it as if she was convinced he didn''t believe her the first and second time.

    "Mhm." He smiled subtly, leaning forward until his forehead was against hers.

    "I''m not beautiful."

    "You are."

    Aries pushed his chest lightly to create distance between them. "You don''t understand."

    "I do, darling," came out a low voice. "You are a monsterбн a beautiful one."

    Abel tucked a portion of her hair behind her ear affectionately. "Even if your skin was wrinkly and your nose was pointy; even if your hair isn''t as silky or yourplexion isn''t as fairбн your eyes will always be the same, darling." His lips curled up as he cupped her jaw.

    "Rest for now," he added.

    Aries pursed her lips and smiled in reassurance, nodding before melting into his embrace. There was just something in his faint warmth and the sound of his voice and the look in his eyes that soothed her. Her arms around him tightened, feeling his body to make sure he was there with her.

    But for reasons unknown, she raised her hand from his back and caught some anomaly from the corner of her eyes. When she moved her gaze to take a look at it, her eyes dted seeing long, dirty, and thick nails; her skin was wrinkly as if they were a hand of an elderly. That second, her breath hitched as realization dawned on her. But before she could talk, Abel spoke.

    "Darling," he called, lowering his head on her frizzy crimped hair. "When you wake up from here, you won''t remember it."

    "Huh?" Aries raised her brows while he drew away from her slightly.

    In his eyes, she was just as beautiful even though her nose was long and pointy, wrinkles and warts across her face, and her teeth were yellowish with brown gue. His affection for her remained the same.

    "That is why, darling, don''t call yourself a monster, nor think you aren''t beautiful." His lips stretched wider, leaning forward, and whispered into her mouth. "In my eyes, heart, and soul, no matter what form you appear even in a form of a potato, I will... love you the same."

 Chapter 292 [Bonus Chapter]The Beauty Within

    <strong>Love... </strong>

    Aries and Abel had shared the most intimate thing a man and a woman could share physically. They had whispered all sweet nothings in each other''s ears, aware of each other''s importance in their life.

    But never once that word ''love'' ever left their lips.

    They believed it wasn''t important because they knew their hearts. And they understood they had a mutual understanding of their actions, thinking, and feelings.

    Who would have thought that simple sentence, "I will still love you the same," would make all the fibers of her body tingle? Butterflies in her stomach, making her toes curl and melt at the tenderness of his lips.

    He loves her.

    It was the most obvious thing in the world, and yet, hearing it brought bubbles into her heart. It sounded beautiful. The restlessness in her heart calmed down, eyes shut, feeling his warm transfer from his mouth to hers.

    But when Aries reopened her eyes weakly, he was gone.

    "Abel?" she called, propping her elbow on the mattress while looking around the empty tent. "Abel?!"

    Aries held her breath as she blinked countless times, thinking they were just kissing just now. Where did he go in a split second?

    "Abel...?" Her voice grew firm and shaky, flinging her legs out of the bed. Aries rushed outside the entrance of the tent and the second she was out, her face was met with a cool breeze.

    She halted, eyes on the thick snow covering the surrounding. She held her bicep and lifted her gaze, lips quivering seeing the familiar narrow trail.

    "Abel?" she called as she noticed the footsteps on the ankle-deep snow. But just as she took a step to follow the trail, Aries looked back.

    The tent... was gone.

    "No," came out a whisper before setting her eyes back ahead. "No."

    Aries shook her head mildly as realization dawned on her. She was dreaming бк just as Abel told her.

    "Abel...?" she called with a shaking voice before her eyes fell on the trail once again. She gulped, hearing her swallow in her ear. Her lips parted once again, but no words came out. Instead, her eyes stared at the footsteps leading to the narrow trail.

    Reluctance flickered across her eyes before she clenched her teeth, forcing a step forward. One heavy step was followed by easier ones, making her feel it wasn''t that hard moving forward. All she needed was courage.

    Aries followed the footsteps, trudging through the ankle-deep snow and entering the allee fearlessly. As she went deeper into the dark forest, Aries clutched a hand closer to her chest as she heard faint waves ofughter echoing from a distance. She ignored it, marching through the line of trees.

    "Oh, Aries~!" she heard that voice once again, but she paid it no attention. "Go faster! Or we will catch you~! Hahaha!"

    Aries stopped after the seemingly long walk, standing still at a distance as her eyesnded on the figure lying with her tummy on the frosted ground. Her heart clenched, watching her younger self raise her head to meet her eyes.

    ''What are you still there?'' she wondered, balling her hand into a fist. ''They will catch you if you stayed there.''<sub> </sub>

    Just when Aries took a step forward, she stopped once more upon realizing the weather. It was winter and thus, she should be cold. But she wasn''t. She gazed down ever so slowly, only to see her white chemise was now a brown, old cloak to keep her a little warm.

    "What...?" she raised a hand, curling her fingers when she was certain they looked normal. She then looked around and then it hit her.

    That figure she saw that night... also stood in this very spot and wore this long cloak.

    What was going on?

    Aries looked back to her younger self, still slumped on the cold ground. Despite the thick darkness, she could see her pale, lean, and exhausted face. Her heart gripped with sympathy once again seeing the face she used to wear in this Maganti. Before she could approach that younger pitiful Aries, she caught another figure standing opposite her бк behind the Aries on the ground.

    There, a woman riding a steed wore a cold front and looked at the woman on the ground with no emotion in particr. There wasn''t sympathy or anything in her eyes. Although she wore the same face as the two of them, she was nonchnt.

    One was exhausted and hopeless, the other was unsympathetic. Seeing her face, who lived in different times from another perspective, was astounding in a way.

    Her lips curled up into a mocking smirk as she darted her eyes between the two women who bore her face. She didn''t know, nor did she understand this strange phenomenon. But one thing was for sure, those two... were her and she was them.

    They were one.

    Aries found the strength to approach the woman on the ground without a pause or picking up her pace. She took her precious time until she reached her, squatting down in front of her. She pressed a thumb on her chin to take a good look at her.

    Thetter looked at her, scared. So Aries smiled subtly as her eyes turned soft.

    "Don''t be scared," she whispered softly. "I won''t hurt you, Aries."

    The younger Aries''s lips quivered as tears clouded her vision. A shallow breath slipped past Aries'' lips seeing the desperation across the pitiful woman''s face.

    "Help," the younger Aries whispered with a shaking voice, watching the woman under the cloak nod.

    "You will be fine," Aries reassured with a soothing voice. "Stay strong, Aries. Justбн stay strong, alright? Don''t break here; you can''t."

    She knew she couldn''t give anything but her mere words of encouragement. But Aries knew herself more than anyone. The only help she needed wasn''t someone to get her out of here; that would strain her unnecessary pride. Call it foolish, but Aries knew if she came out of here with someone''s help, all she had been fighting for would be lost.

    Wasn''t that the reason she was running away despite not having any piece to give her warmth because she had to fight as long as she could?

    "One day, Aries, one dayбн the sun will rise and you will watch it with someone who will make the world fall to its knees if they so touch the tip of your hair." Ariesughed weakly. "He will love you even if your hair is crimped and messy, and he will look at you like you are the most beautiful woman, despite your ws. Andбн he will have your back. You just need to get out of here and see him."

    Aries smiled and huffed weakly, pinching her chin, only to see her reflection in the other Aries''s eyes. She wasбн horrendous.

    "The past, the present, and the futureбн we are one, Aries. I will not forget my roots and I had forgiven my present," she whispered as she opened the younger Aries''s mouth slightly. "Follow your heart and don''t be discouraged. He will be waiting. Don''t make the same mistake as I did, Aries."

    This time, instead of a dark shroud from her mouth, a transparent one traveled from her to the younger Aries.

 Chapter 293 [Bonus Chapter] Eyes Up

    <strong>"In my eyes, heart, and soul, no matter what form you appear even in a form of a potato, I will... love you the same."</strong>

    Abel slowly opened his eyes, and he instantly caught Aries sleeping soundlessly on the bed from his chair beside her. His eyes remained on her, staying silent for a long time.

    "I didn''t expect that," he whispered after minutes of silence. "Aren''t you full of surprises, my darling?"

    Abel was simply watching over her after wiping her body and changing her clothes. Amid it, he was pulled into her dreams. It wasn''t the first time Aries took him to her dream. But it still surprised him, since she intentionally called for him.

    ''Darling...'' He bent over and held her hand, slipping his fingers in between hers. "I hope you make peace with yourself."

    Although there were unanswered things in his head, he had a good grasp of Aries''s situation. It was a little moreplicated than he thought. Matter of fact, this had never crossed him. He didn''t smell her, nor did he feel anything special about her.

    Aries simply became special to his life because she was the person who held his hand in the dark. But he never fathomed she was more than just being his world.

    "What happened to us, darling?" he wondered, guiding her hand to his lips, eyes fixed on her. "Why were you so scared of us?"

    No answer, which wasn''t surprising.

    A plethora of questions rose upon meeting her in that dream, but those questions stood out. That was the only thing he cared about because Aries might''ve been confused, but her eyes were always clear. And they mirrored her fear that he had never seen before.

    If he would be so bold, he would conclude it was a fear of a person who lost everything. The look he would probably wear if she died.

    <strong>Did he die?</strong>

    Who knows... Aries wouldn''t remember everything once she woke up.

    "You always have a way to intrigue me, darling." He rested his forehead against her knuckles, closing his eyes to rest them for a bit. ''Now that I think about it... I should''ve forced a confession from you.''

    He frowned as he raised his head and narrowed his eyes at her. "I should''ve... at least hear it from your lips once."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips before his brows rose. He nced at the entrance of the tent, seeing a shadow standing in front of it.

    "Your Majesty, they are here." Isaiah''s cold and ssic aloof voice reached his ears.

    Abel didn''t respond immediately as he straightened his back, sitting upright beside her bed, hand still cradling hers. He guided her hand to his lips once again, cing a peck on her knuckles.

    "I''ll be back, darling," he promised under his breath. "Once you wake up, everything will be just like how they are."<sub> </sub>

    His eyes remained on her for moments before cing her hand on top of her stomach. Standing beside the bed, Abel brushed a few baby hairs from her forehead, bending over to nt a kiss on her head, before marching outside the tent to meet who could give him answers.

    Outside the tent stood Isaiah on the right, then Conan on the left. Abel nced from his left to right, ignoring the people from the other tent who were watching what would happen.

    "They''re in the clearing," Isaiah informed as he tilted his head down. Abel didn''t reply, as he simply sauntered to where all the nobles were standing frozen.

    As soon as the three of them reached where their guest was, Abel glossed his eyes over the multiple figures wearing cloaks, standing in a proper formation; three rows with approximately six to seven witches each row. Abel noticed some of them were already speaking in tongues but in a whisper.

    "I said... those who were involved..." Abel broke the silent chanting in the air as he waved a finger from left to right. "... you mean to tell me you are all... involved?"

    "No one is involved... Vampire." A woman standing in the front and in the middle pulled her hood down, revealing an olddy.

    p Her hair was already nched, and half of her face was covered with a burnt scar that kept one eye closed. Yet, vulnerability was never shown in her tenor. Instead, she was a woman standing with her chin up before a terrifying monster who stepped foot in their territory.</anda>

    Her one eye was sharp as she scrutinized him from head to toe. "You..." She narrowed her eyes, sizing his immense power and her guess was correct.

    This man... must die.

    The witch remained silent for a long time as if she was rummaging through her memory. When she recovered from her thoughts, her expression turned grim.

    "An Original," she muttered, watching the side of Abel''s lips curl up. She then shifted her eyes to Isaiah and added, "a warlock," before her eyes veered to Conan. "A pureblooded vampire prince."

    "A hunter and then that cursed ghoul you carried with you..." pertaining to Morro, who had been sneaking into the dark spaces and narrow alleys in the empire. "... what a strange group of monsters. Truly... the child of evil has risen from the very pits of hell!"

    The witchughed maniacally. "How horrific!" she hissed, almost out of breath as she widened her eyes. "Maleficent will not be yours, child of evil!"

    Isaiah''s brows creased while Conan frowned at the ugly and hair-raising gaze of the old witch. Thetter felt like the gaze of that woman would curse him. Meanwhile, unlike Isaiah''s puzzlement and Conan''s displeasure, Abel was pleased.

    "So, I was correct?" Abel rocked his head lightly and in a blink of an eye, he was already standing three feet from the witch. He bent over, studying the shock that came a bitter on her face.

    "That is all I need to know, Beldame." He smiled before he erected a finger, pointing at his green hair. "Keep your eyes up. It''s a better sight to behold."

    As a wicked grin turned up on his face, Abel halted when Isaiah suddenly yelled. "Your Majesty, it''s a trap!"

 Chapter 294 [Bonus Chapter] A Message

    "Your Majesty, it''s a trap!"

    Abel straightened his back and looked around while the witchughed wickedly. A frown dominated his face as he couldn''t move from his spot, hearing the chanting grew louder along with the old witch''sughter. The wind had also grown stronger.

    "Hah..." the witch grinned triumphantly as she sized him up. "We already knew an Original dared step into our territory. Thus, we came prepared."

    "You..." Abel raised his hand when he caught Isaiah raising a hand to counter the spell. His eyes remained on the witch and the witches still chanting under their breath.

    "Don''t, Isaiah," he ordered. "Countering it will simply seal me altogether."

    "What..." Isaiah''s usual poker face slowly broke as his eyes dted. How could that be?

    "Your Majesty! Stop joking!" Conan yelled in irritation as this prank was not funny. But deep in his heart, he knew Abel never joked about these things.

    Just who were these witches to know such a spell to contain an Original like him?

    "I''m not joking, Conan." Abelughed in amusement, gazing at the old witch in astonishment. "They''re interesting."

    "As expected from an Original," praised the witch, nodding in satisfaction. "This spell can barely restrict your movements. If this were others, they would have been squirming on the ground."

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed. "This spell... is quite rare. Which makes me wonder, beldame, who taught you this?"

    "An old friend of mine." The witch shrugged.

    "An old friend of yours...?" he narrowed his eyes and licked his lips. "Which of my sister was it?"

    Her smile stiffened as his eyes glowed with amusement. The chanting grew louder when Abel took a step forward.

    "How бк" the witch took a step back while her eyes went round as he walked towards her without a problem. She was about to take a step back once again but froze. Her breath hitched when Abel outstretched his hand and grabbed her by the neck. The chanting stopped as all witches gazed at him in horror.

    It didn''t work.

    "Who is this old friend of yours, Beldame?" he asked, lifting her up with his one hand. The spell that was supposed to trap a powerful evil creature like him only piqued his interest. Instead of subduing him, it forced him out of his box of nonchnce.

    Abel tilted his head as he hummed a tune, studying the old witch in his grip. "Let me guess... I don''t think it''s that girl, since she will never leave the house and meet people unless you entered that ce." His lips stretched broader as his eyes gleamed with delight.

    "Was it Ameria?" he guessed with raised brows, getting his answer from her shocked expression. "Pfft--! Marse?"

    Abelughed out loud, which resonated in the air. Even Isaiah and Conan looked at each other in confusion before setting their eyes back on Abel. It had been a while since they had seen Abelugh so hard and out of pure joy as if he just heard the greatest joke of all time.<sub> </sub>

    "Oh, beldame." His face had turned red as he whistled, looking at the terrified witch. "Of all Originals... why did you fall for that nut case?"

    "What --"

    Heughed once again, seeing the horror dominate the witch. Abel shook his head as he sort of felt sorry for them after the spell they tried to pull off.

    "It was a joke! Oh, poor you!" Abelughed, glossing his eyes over the witches. "That spell, I mean. It''s a joke she left бк maybe she knew I would be here someday. Oh, Her. What a way to greet the great me."

    Her lips quivered, but no words came out. That was the only spell they knew to subdue someone like him. Other spells... they would mean nothing to him and they would simply exhaust themselves. How did things turn out like this?

    "Pity." He sighed as he studied her face before he let her go, which caused her to copse on the damped ground. Abel took a step back with his hand on his hips, studying the covens of witches who came to kill him. He shook his head in disappointment, thinking he had hoped for them to suppress him when he stepped foot in the invisible magic circle.

    Turned out that he raised his hopes up and overestimated them.

    "Are you all curious what the spell was?" he asked and snickered as he pointed his chin at the ground. His action forced everyone to follow where he pointed out.

    Right before their eyes, a line of grass withered, revealing a message. Their eyes dted in shock as soon as the message appeared as the withered grass left lines. It says;

    <strong>[ You''re still alive? Wow... crazy. ]</strong>

    Abelughed as he stared at the ground before he raised his head at them. Their faces told him they didn''t expect that. Truly a sight to behold, giving him a goodugh and lifting his mood.

    "Well, the spell she taught you will definitely turn Conan into a real frog." He snapped everyone back from their trance, pointing his thumb over his shoulder and to Conan. "But not an Original. If they can kill me, I would''ve begged them long ago, Beldame. You should know that, but well... you''re quite young and foolish. I won''t me the youth."

    <o>,m "It will turn me into a frog?!" Conan yelled from his spot with a gasp. "Your Majesty, you know such a spell?!"</o>

    Abel cocked his head back. "Mhm. I forgot I do, but now I remembered." He smiled smugly, watching Conan''s face grow nk in horror.

    "Don''t look at me like that!" Conan yelled as he knew Abel, while thetterughed before setting his attention back on the coven of witches.

    "You witches are far too young, and yet you meddle with human affairs with your witchcraft." Abel cleared his throat as he studied them. "I''ll let this slide, though, since you are her friends. However, meddle with our affairs in this empire and I''ll raze you all to the ground."

    His lips curled up, giving them mercy for the sole reason they knew this spell. Meaning, that his sister saw them as ''friends.'' Whatever friends mean to her.

    "Andstly, Maleficent is mine." He smirked. "Get near her and you will decay before you reach her. Not just your mortal body, but even your soul."

    He turned around, still bearing a triumphant smirk, waving. "Don''t take my mercy for granted. It''s rare." He then stopped and turned around. "One more thing, help Isaiah fix everyone in here. It''ll be too much for him to do all the work."

 Chapter 295 A Little Bit Of History

    Once upon a time, the world was only for humans to inhabit. ording to history, the only special creature who oversees the world was amb. With themb as the guardian of the mortal realm, the world had kept its order for a long time.

    Until...

    A god, a sinful lower god, had escaped the judgment in the heavenly realm and entered the mortal realm. His existence in the world had born mayhem with his wicked, ferocious, and brutal nature. He sought vengeance on the god and thus, he set forth to meet themb to fulfill his n of vengeance.

    Afraid of this sinful beast''s return, the god of the moon and the god of the underworld joined hands, and their alliance hatched a creature made of sin. That was how the first vampire was born and it was called the child of evil. The child of evil''s only purpose was to ughter this beast walking freely in the mortal realm.

    It didn''t matter if the child of evil would die in the process for as long as he fulfilled his mission. However, the child of evil developed intelligence andprehension, and it didn''t take long when he questioned his own existence.

    Why must the child of evil have to kill another to survive? Why was the child of evil craved blood? Why... was the child of evil already evil even before he could decide what he was?

    Questions after questions and nothing was answered.

    This confusion and the unfavorable situation slowly morphed into hatred until the child of evil set his eyes on his creators. With a mission to kill the sinful beast in the mortal realm, the child of evil also sought the demise of those gods.

    Hence, the inevitable happened: the great holy war.

    A battle between wolves and vampires.

    ording to history, the great holy war was so destructive the gods had to intervene. The child of evil and his forces were punished gravely; they wouldn''t be able to walk under the sun or they would return to ash to where they came from. The sinful beast, on the other hand, was bound by the moon''s will.

    Everyone thought that was all there in the story; there was more.

    During the holy war, humans, who were caught up in the conflict of these destructive creatures who started the holy war, had to find ways to survive. Because of the spread of power and mana from them, witches and warlocks were born.

    One particr individual who rose in power and was renowned among witches was called Maleficent, the mother of all witches. There weren''t many who knew about this witch''s story, nor there were details of who and what she was as a person.

    All everyone knew was that this witch was powerful enough to unite all the witches and stand on the same ground as the sinful trinity: the wolf, themb, and the child of evil.

    "So, you''re saying... Lady Aries is a mother and her current state is all her doing? Not the witches?" Conan raised a question, gazing to his right where Isaiah was walking, on their way to the crown princess''s tent where Abel was. "No, no, I mean, how is that possible?! I investigated Rikhill and nothing like that turned up! Everyone in that ruined country is human! Also, you''re a warlock! You can smell one of your kind with just one look!"

    Isaiah cast him an indifferent side-eye. "Being a witch isn''t all about blood," he exined tonelessly. "You can be a child of one and not inherit their gifts. Fate chooses you, not the other way around."<sub> </sub>

    "What? I never heard of that." Conan''s face crumpled and his head throbbed for a bit.

    "Your prejudice towards witches just because you''re a vampire had always hindered you to broaden your knowledge in this area."

    "Hey! I''m doing a great job being His Majesty''s adviser, alright?!" Conan''s frown deepened as he red daggers at Isaiah''s side profile. "So, did Lady Aries have some sort of awakening or...?"

    "Nothing like that." Conan quirked a brow at Isaiah''s quick response. "Lady Aries didn''t have an awakening or anything of the sort. She''s still Lady Aries."

    p "Huh?? I''m confused."</anda>

    Isaiah slowed down as he caught the sight of the crown princess''s tent. The next tent near it had its entrance open; Curtis was sitting near the entrance, eyes on them.

    "I''m saying being a witch isn''t as simple as that. The power of Maleficent has chosen Lady Aries as its sanctuary. However, that doesn''t necessarily mean she became powerful with a snap of a finger. It only meant she had potential. She still needs to learn to control it, tame it, and utilize it properly," Isaiah exined solemnly because being a witch wasn''t the same as being born as a vampire or a werewolf or other creatures.

    There was a process to everything because they were originally human. They had to devote themselves to nurturing this gift. It would be a long and painful process, and they had an option to embrace it or forget it.

    "It''s better if she stays the way she is," he added under his breath as they approached the tent, stopping at the entrance. "There''s nothing good in awakening another troublesome ghost of the past." бк their fates would only be just asplicated and tragic and Abel, the heir of the child of evil and a direct descendant of evil, could attest to that.

    Sheltering the spirits of those who nearly destroyed the worldбн the world would definitely try to destroy them first before they could even think about it.

    "Your Majesty, everything is done just as you ordered," Isaiah announced sternly, staring at the shut entrance of the tent. "The witches had helped. Shall I rewrite the memories of those in the next tent?"

    Isaiah only received silence, but he maintained hisposure. When another minute had passed and he still received no answer, he tilted his head down.

    "I will return shortly." That only meant Abel still wanted to spend some time with Aries. Meanwhile, Conan rubbed his chin before he snap his finger.

    "Keep their memories," Conan said. "That third prince and Lady Aries''s friend. I think that''s for the better."

    The side of his lips stretched from ear to ear. "After all, they will still know about these existences in the future once they attended the world summit."

 Chapter 296 Ill Be Gentle

    "Your Majesty, everything is done just as you ordered. The witches had helped. Shall I rewrite the memories of those in the next tent?"

    Abel remained silent despite hearing Isaiah''s and Conan''s voices outside. His attention was all on Aries, who was still sleeping soundlessly on the bed. Her wounds had all healed, but she was still sleeping.

    ''Isaiah...'' he thought in his head as he had been listening to their conversation even before they could arrive at the tent. ''... isn''t entirely right."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips as he tilted his head to the side, eyes still on Aries. Abel stayed seated on the chair beside the bed before he shifted to the edge of the mattress. Everything Isaiah said was all facts. Not that there was something wrong with what he told Conan per se. It was just that Isaiah left out some details.

    Abel couldn''t me Isaiah, though. Conan always had a prejudice against witches and werewolves because he was born to hate them.

    The witches rose to power to save humanity, but the humans, whom they protected, persecuted them when peace returned to the world. The reason the witches would rather live in seclusion. Therefore, they were already pitiful enough to get hated just because vampires, witches, and werewolves were born to hate each other.

    "Maleficent, huh...?" Abel pressed his lips into a thin line as he pondered for a moment. "If I remember correctly, it''s said that the witch was... burned at the stake."

    He reclined slightly, cocking his head back, eyes on her. "But he was correct. This world doesn''t need more ghosts of the past." As the heir of the child of evil, Abel knew how difficult it was to be someone... cursed.

    Their great power came with a fate meant to be damned.

    "As long as you do not awaken," he whispered, extending his arm towards her. Just when his fingertips were about to touch her face, her eyes under her eyelids flickered. Abel paused as he heaved a sigh of relief when her eyes opened ever so weakly.

    "Ugh..."

    "Don''t move too much." Her brows creased as his gentle and deep baritone voice caressed her ears. "You still needed rest, darling."

    Aries peeked into one eye and searched for the person who owned the voice. She smiled subtly the second she caught his sinful beauty.

    "Abel," she called soothingly, relieved to see him the moment she woke up. "You''re here?"

    Abel adjusted his position and bent over until his face was hovering over her. "Of course, darling." He brushed her jaw with the back of his fingers lightly.

    "My darling was in danger. I won''t just stay still and let another take care of you."

    Aries chucked and closed her eye when he lowered his head to nt a kiss on the corner of her eyes. She didn''t know why... but she was very d to see him after her ''ident.''

    "Lie down beside me," she requested weakly, which he happily obliged.

    Abely on his side, slipping his arm under her neck and cradling her in his embrace. Meanwhile, Aries found herfortable spot on his chest and closed her eyes to rest more for a bit. She felt especially exhausted, but she med it on her ident.

    Aries had immediately recalled what happened to her on the hunting grounds. She zoned out, and then her steed was a spook. She jumped from it when she figured she would be in deeper danger if she didn''t. However, even if she protected her head, she still hit it somewhere.

    Thest thing she could remember was walking through the narrow trail and then nothing. She copsed after that.

    "What is it?" he asked after minutes of silence, casually caressing her back.

    Aries reopened her eyes ever so tenderly. "Nothing," came out a muffled answer. "It''s just... I feel like I am forgetting something."

    "Like?"

    "I don''t know." Aries pushed his chest lightly and then looked up at him. "I feel like there''s something missing... in my head."

    Abel sighed quietly before tapping her forehead lightly. "Don''t think too much for now."

    Her lips curved down, but she didn''t argue with him. Instead, she nodded mildly before scrutinizing his face.

    "How did you get in here?" she asked, and he shrugged.

    "I snuck in."<sub> </sub>

    A weak chuckle escaped her mouth as that sounded like something he would do. "What about the rest?"

    "They''re... doing alright." He averted his eyes while she narrowed hers.

    "You didn''t kill them, did you?" she blurted out with a gasp, causing Abel to arch a brow.

    "Darling, I am quite offended by how vile you perceived me." Abel gasped in dismay. "But well... I nearly did."

    "So you didn''t?" she asked to confirm, biting her tongue when he frowned. "Sorry. Hehe."

    Aries cleared her throat, which was surprisingly moist and not as dry as she expected. "Anyway, will you tell me what happened? How did I end up here?"

    "Mhm..." Abel hummed a tune as he studied the curiosity in her eyes. "The third prince found you."

    "Ismael?" Surprise instantly dominated her face, as that was something she didn''t expect.

    "Surprising, I know, but wait until I tell you the third prince nearly died because of you." Her brows furrowed while he chuckled. "Apparently, darling, while you were lying dead deep in the forest, a wild, hungry bear appeared and thought to himself, ''today''s a feast!''"

    "What?"

    "Don''t look down, darling."

    In contrast to Abel''s warning, Aries immediately looked down in panic to see if she lost one limb. Much to her dismay, hisughter caressed her ears when she did, bringing an instant ugly frown on her face.

    Aries punched his chest lightly. "Did you n on giving me a heart attack?" she clicked her tongue in irritation.

    "That''s not funny, Abel."

    "Darling, but you nearly got torn apart if the third prince didn''t risk his life snatching you from the bear''s teeth." Abel raised his brows as he leaned his face forward. "It was quite apudable."

    She sighed as she nodded in agreement. "What about the bear?" she asked. "Did he fight it?"

    "No, darling. A bear as big as that will crush the third prince."

    "How did...?" she trailed off when he smiled, making her smile as well. Aries didn''t ask anymore as she already got a grasp of what happened and the sequence of events after that.

    "Thank you, Abel," she whispered, crawling her hand around his neck only to pull him closer. "Foring to me." бк he might not have found her first, but what mattered to her was that Abel rushed to her.

    "You''re wee, darling." His hand felt her waist and slowly traveled down to her rear.

    "I''m injured." He frowned when she held his hand and pulled it up to her waist.

    "I''ll be gentle."

    "Let''s rest first," she whispered, nting a kiss on his curved lips, chuckling into his mouth as he seemed displeased. "Abel?"

    "Mhm?"

    She smiled as she pulled away to look at him. "Nothing. I''m just thankful that I am alive."

    "Me too, darling." Abel leaned forward to im her lips, but this time, he didn''t break away immediately. "Your existence is the only thing I am grateful for."

    As if nothing happened бк the witches, her witch within, the hell''s gate, and Abel''s warning бк everything returned to normal with a different story they all believed happened which was far from what truly happened.

 Chapter 297 Opening For The Final Act

    The story went like this:

    After the "terrorist" attack, which resulted in a few deaths of noblemen while some inflicted injuries, Ismael found the crown princess lying unconscious deep in the hunting ground. He brought the crown princess back and thankfully, her injuries were immediately treated.

    Because of this unprecedented ident, they canceled the huntingpetition to take measures and take a proper course of action. An incident such as this with the deaths of multiple noblemen needed to be dealt with immediately and ruthlessly.

    The people who did it needed to pay.

    Ismael remained silent while everyone in the royal court was singing about their furious hearts as if they truly cared about other people''s lives than theirs. If this was any other day, he would be smirking and enjoying how this royal court would unfold.

    But, no. He couldn''t do that. He knew what happened... not just what urred on the hunting grounds, but also behind the scenes for years.

    His expression was solemn and dark, eyes were as sharp as metal des. Across the table was Joaquin, who was likewise oddly silent, letting everyone speak.

    ''Joaquin...'' Ismael''s eyes glinted as his fist under the table trembled in anger. ''I will bring you down.''

    Ismael''s sharp re eventually caught Joaquin''s attention as thetter raised his eyes to him. Thetter''s brows arched slightly, noticing the strange look on the third prince''s face. The third prince had always shown hostility towards Joaquin, but only this time did Joaquin see this expression on his brother''s face.

    It wasn''t an unreadable look. It was the opposite.

    Ismael''s eyes bore murderous intent, and he wasn''t even concealing it. Right now, Ismael wanted the crown prince dead, and he purposely wanted Joaquin to know that.

    ''Hah...'' Joaquin smirked as his eye dropped until they were partially closed. ''Does this mean he was affiliated with the Valiente Guerris, after all?''

    There was no other way Ismael would give off this stare if not for the fact that the main point in this court meeting was how to deal with the culprits. After all, Joaquin made sure that the resistance group would be razed to the ground. It didn''t matter if the other forces were the resistance group or another one. He already created a separate team to investigate the truth.

    Still, his agenda remained the same, and that was to put an end to that rebel group.

    "Silence." Joaquin snapped his eyes ever so tenderly as he raised them to everyone around the table. However, they didn''t stop their argument and instead raised their voices.

    <strong>SLAM!</strong><sub> </sub>

    "Enough!" Silence instantly fell as the crown prince''s voice echoed across every corner of the courtroom. He nodded in satisfaction when everyone seemed ready to hear his sentiments.

    "The attack during the huntingpetition had caused grief for many aristocrats. Even I am still trembling in anger for my crown princess. I share your sentiments. I would''ve lost my wife as well." Joaquin scanned everyone''s faces because some of them had lost their sons or brother, but still attended the court meeting to seek justice for their loss. "That is why... to stop this from urring in the future, we need to put an end to the Valiente resistance group."

    His expression grew dark and studied the fire in everyone''s eyes. "We are not doing this simply for vengeance. Remember, ourw and values aren''t as barbaric as those who would simply take lives for personal interest. The Valiente were still citizens of our Maganti Empire, but their twisted and bigoted beliefs had crossed the line."

    Joaquin nted his palms on the surface of the table and pushed himself up. He remained silent, giving everyone equal attention before his lips parted.

    "The Empire had been lenient to these people, and we had practiced maximum tolerance. But what they had done... is unspeakable and unforgivable. I will never... condone them." He stressed each word, raising everyone''s morale and anger with his solid tone. "I will lead my people and march to the Valiente. This group... must cease to exist!"

    An uproar supporting the crown prince''s decision exploded in the courtroom, offering help by sending their own knights and even themselves. A glint flickered across Joaquin''s eyes, pleased that everything was in motion. His eyes then fell on Ismael for a moment.

    The third prince kept his straight face, exchanging eye contact with him.

    ''Ismael... what are you going to do now?'' Joaquin wondered as he now believed Ismael had some affiliation with the Valiente rebel group. If the third prince would be smart, he wouldn''t do anything and let things unfold like always. But if he had be emotional, it would be better for the crown prince.

    Ismael was someone who wouldmit a mistake when he let his emotion take over him. Joaquin would surely pin him down and burn him along with that rebel group, this time for sure. The third prince just needed to give Joaquin even the slightest reason.

    The meeting ended with ''unity'' to destroy the thorn in the empire. Throughout the meeting, Ismael remained silent. He watched everyone leave the courtroom until he was all alone, sitting in the same spot.

    ''A war will break out...'' he whispered to himself, as he already guessed what Joaquin would do to this country. ''Once the resistance group falls, he will ascend the throne.''

    His jaw tightened as he grip his hand until it trembled. ''The throne...'' a glint flickered across his eyes once more at the thought of the throne.

    Joaquin had always set his eyes on the throne and had done everything to secure his position. Even if it means disgracing the emperor, their father, for turning him into a mindless monster. Now, he was aiming at that rebel group, who weren''t even rebels originally, but a group of farmers who were simply fighting for their rights.

    ''How embarrassing...'' Ismael lowered his eyes as he remembered Aries''s people and the emperor of Haimirich, who was in disguise to enjoy the show. ''He made us all a part of this circus for others to enjoy. Unbelievable!''

 Chapter 298 Valiente

    298 Valiente

    One thing was certain in this situation. Abel, the emperor of Haimirich, was simply here to enjoy the show and apud his lover once the show was over. It was humiliating to think that a few people were looking down on them while they think so highly of themselves.

    But that wasn''t important anymore. Abel reassured them he wouldn''t even step in. Unless, of course, Aries was harmed. Ismael knew for sure Abel could wipe them all out, no matter how great the empire was. He was a monster, a literal one. Even so, this put a slight ease in Ismael''s heart. It only meant Aries was the only one who had an interest in this ce бк or the people in this ce. In other words, there wasn''t much change in the situation. It was the same... at least, for the people in Maganti. Aries alone was cunning enough to make everyone dance in her tune. Abel and his people, who were on thisnd, were only here to make sure she would return to Haimirich in one piece. So, Ismael didn''t need to dwell in these hidden forces, walking freely in the empire, but focused on bringing the crown prince to his demise. ''I wonder if Rome had returned.'' Ismael finally stood up from his seat and left the courtroom in silence. He didn''t stay idle and headed straight to the third prince''s chancery. As soon as Ismael entered his office, he halted by the door when he saw a figure sitting on the divan inside the chancery. The side of Ismael''s lips curled up while thetter raised his head to meet the third prince''s eyes. "This is quite a bold move, Rome." Ismael closed the door behind him and sauntered towards the seat across from Roman. "Did you enjoy your brief vacation?" he asked as soon as he sat his butt down, resting his leg over the other.

    Roman kept his lips in a thin and tight sh, studying the third prince''s face silently. After that grand banquet where he met Ismael, Roman told himself the third prince was bluffing. However, he found himself galloping to the saidnd that same night.

    It took Roman just a full day and night to reach it; a lot faster than he thought. "It was... the Valiente," he confessed after a minute of silence, watching Ismael tilt his head to the side. "The incident. It was their doing."

    Roman took a deep breath as he leaned his upper body forward until his arms were resting on his legs. "Before the hunting season, there had been rumors in the narrow streets that crawled its way to the underground. It says... the Valiente Guerris will soon strike."

    "Doing nothing and doing something will still have the same result. The crown prince will pin everything to them to incite public anger and gain support from the aristocrat," he continued in the same solemn tone. "He is always cunning."

    "So you told your people to strike instead?" Ismael didn''t beat around the bush as he nned to tie the loose ends. Until now, he had been guessing if Roman was affiliated with the said resistance group or not. It was obvious, but without confirmation, it would always be vague. He didn''t want that.

    "No." Roman breathed out while Ismael frowned.

    "Are you still going to deny it, seventh prince?" asked Ismael, and arched a brow when Roman shook his head.

    "I didn''t tell them to strike since it will be the same anyway," Roman reassured, staring solemnly into Ismael''s eyes. "Why do I need to order others when I can simply do it myself?"

    "What?" "Valiente is me, and they were my guerris. I won''t put my people on a dangerous mission to infiltrate the imperial pce. I had served the crown prince for years to know how his mind works," Roman exined without a filter that had never happened between them. "The crown prince trusted me and no one will suspect me бк at least, not for now. It was not like they will investigate thoroughly since they will be busy dragging my people''s name through the mud."

    "The numbers of casualties was enough to put the crown prince on a setback, that is for sure. After all, most of them were affiliated with the crown prince''s illegal businesses. It would take time for him to find a new set of people whom he could trust," he continued. "Even if they march to destroy Valiente, he already received a tremendous blow that he cannot recover immediately."

    There was a momentary silence that filled the chancery as the two men stared at each other. Ismael was shocked, and it took him a moment to register everything Roman had said. He was simply expecting a confession that Roman had some connection with the resistance group.

    However, what he got was more than what he thought. Roman was the head of the resistance group and not just that, but the attack during the hunting season was... the seventh prince''s doing?

    Ismael held his breath as he looked at Roman in disbelief. Just how fast did he ride his horse to go back and forth? No, not just that. But Ismael thought Roman would stay in his vineyard where Violet was hiding with her children for at least a day. By the looks of it, Roman didn''t even meet Violet. Even if he did, it was surely just a brief moment. "You..." Ismael cleared his throat and forced a smirk. "Switching sides now is the right decision, brother."

    "I''m not switching side. I never chose his side and simply stayed with him to keep a close eye on him," Roman corrected before he breathed out deeply. "I am simply choosing a side now. Third prince, I will assist you with everything that I can..."

    Ismaelughed weakly before he narrowed his eyes. "What''s the catch, Rome? Let''s not go around in circles. You will not confess everything to gain my trust without an asking price." His brows rose as he leaned forward.

    "Tell me. What is it that you want in return?" Roman remained silent and stared at the third prince in silence. When his lips parted, Ismael arched a brow before heughed.

    "Oh, Rome..." Ismael shook his head and propped his jaw against his knuckles. "I never thought you''d be this... simple."

 Chapter 299 [Bonus Chapter]Rome And Violet

    "Oh, Rome. I never thought you''d be this... simple."

    "Give me your word." Roman ignored the amused grin stered on Ismael''s face as his expression remained solemn. "It is a cheap pricepared to what I can offer. Wasn''t that the reason you did what you did?"

    Ismael smirked as heughed weakly. "I did nothing, brother." He shrugged but didn''t borate on what he meant by that.

    "You have my word, seventh prince," promised Ismael to his brother. "Once the crown prince had fallen, I will keep my promise. But I am warning you. You might regret this decision, for I had nned to squeeze everything I can from you."

    "Never." Roman''s jaw tightened as he rocked his head. "I will be on my way since that is all I need to say."

    Ismael simply shrugged nonchntly as he watched Roman assist himself up. His eyes followed the seventh prince''s figure until the door shut closed with a soft click.

    A shallow breath slipped past the third prince''s lips as he peeled his eyes away from the door and onto the vacant seat across from him.

    "Roman..." he tapped his fingertips against the armrest, recalling Roman''s confession. "Unbelievable. No wonder he''s been serving Joaquin like a mindless dog."

    Ismael had been mystified at Roman''s reason for pledging to the crown prince. He knew his brother, the seventh prince, and it was so out of his character to condone Joaquin''s inhumane nature. It was easy to say Roman was simply wise and chose someone whose position on the throne was secure.

    But it had always bothered him.

    Now that Roman confessed his reasons for sticking with the crown prince, it made sense. Being Joaquin''s henchman and doing all the dirty work, Joaquin wouldn''t know if all the people he wanted to silence died just as he ordered. Roman had spent over a decade serving the crown prince and surely, he had done more that no one else knew.

    "This is fucking... scary and hrious." Ismaelughed as he gripped the armrest tightly. The more he delved deeper into this silent power struggle, the more it made his stomach tremble.

    Who wouldn''t?

    In the past, there were only two key figures fighting for power in the royal court: Joaquin and Ismael. But ever since Aries came into the picture and sat him down in thest row, he realized there wasn''t just a tform in this seemingly huge theater.

    The seats were filled, and their guests had their own cards to y.

    Just who else was just like Roman?

    "That''s not the point," he whispered and closed his eyes, shaking his head mildly. "I might''ve figured this out a littleter, but things are the same."

    It was a good thing Roman wasn''t as ambitious as he should be with his simple request in turn for his services. He could''ve gained more with the power he was holding.

    "Now that I think about it..." Ismael slowly opened his eyes, and they instantly glinted. "... why did she let me do her bidding?"

    He frowned as he thought about what was going on inside that madwoman''s head. "I will lose my mind trying to understand that lunatic crown princess."

    Ismael clicked his tongue in irritation and shook his head once more. Negotiating with Roman was something Aries could do easily. She simply needed to give Violet''s address and it would be easier for the two of them to work since Joaquin trusted the crown princess. And yet, she deliberately gave this matter to the third prince to handle.

    Just what was she nning?<sub> </sub>

    Ismael might not know the reason for now, but... what mattered now was that everything was in motion. Now, Ismael could say his power now wasn''t just title or birthright alone. The people that he slowly gathered solidified his ground.

    "For the people..." he whispered as determination crossed his eyes. "For ournd... Manuel, watch how I will deliver your murderer to hell."

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Roman let out a deep exhale as soon as he exited the third prince''s chancery. Standing in front of the door, he looked back and sighed once more.

    ''There''s no turning back,'' he told himself as he peeled his eyes away from the door and marched through the hallway. ''Violet... my princess.''

    His eyes softened as he walked silently. As he did, his mind drifted to the memory from a few days ago in the smallnd near the empire.

    When Ismael told him about thend he purchased for his winery, Roman refused to believe his brother. But he found himself galloping to that ce without asking anyone''s permission. He didn''t even rest and before he knew it; he stood outside the hectares of vineyard.

    Roman simply wanted to confirm Ismael was just that rotten to use Violet and give him false hope. But as he intruded the vineyard, he soon caught a beautiful woman with a hat to shield her head from the sun harvesting grapes while two boys were munching them from the basket.

    That second, he stood frozen from his spot. His eyes were fixed on that beautiful smile while he held her hat to still it on her head. He listened to her melodiousughter while her children bantered.

    ''You''re safe...'' his eyes softened in relief as his knees trembled, but he managed to keep his ground.

    There were questions in his head about how Violet survived the fire. Was it part of Ismael''s scheme? But Carlos died because of it. Ismael wouldn''t be that crazy to sacrifice one of his strongest supporters. It would hurt him more than anyone.

    But that didn''t matter to Roman now. The most important part was that Violet survived and her children, too. Not just that, but she was now living a freer and more peaceful life бк away from the suffocating imperial pce where her every movement was being watched.

    "Thank God," he whispered as a subtle smile resurfaced on his face. Roman watched Violet from that distance before he turned around to leave. It was better if she didn''t know he knew she was here and she was alive.

    However, just as Roman turned around, he froze when he heard his name being uttered in her soft voice.

    "Your Highness, the seventh prince? Is that you?" Roman ground his teeth and didn''t turn around. "Your highness..."

    He took a deep breath and, after a minute, he turned around. As soon as he did, he lowered his eyes to the hat that was on her head previously, now several feet away from his vantage point.

    Roman silently sauntered forward to pit up the hat. But when he straightened his back, he saw the horror resurface in her eyes as she discreetly hid her boys behind her. This was the reason he didn''t want to approach her.

    "Please pretend I didn''te here." He ignored the fear in her eyes as he handed her the hat, which she epted with shaking hands.

    "I''m d to see you well, Princess. I''ll be on my way now." Roman smiled subtly before he tilted his head down. But before he could turn around to leave once again, Violet called.

    "Wait!" he looked back at her with furrowed brows while Violet forced a smile on her face despite the fear in her eyes being obvious. "Do you... have time for a cup of tea? Your Highness?"

 Chapter 300 [Bonus Chapter]Rome And Violet II

    Roman couldn''t remember saying no to Violet. So when she asked him to join them for lunch with that brave smile on her, he didn''t have the heart to say no.

    Somewhere on the ntation was a two-storey house for the family of three and a few servants who were loyal to Princess Violet. While they were waiting for the food, Violet led Roman to the sitting room while the children rest in their rooms.

    Roman gazed down at the tea in front of him after she slid it towards him. When he raised his eyes, he caught the subtle smile on her face before she poured herself a cup of tea.

    "I was taken aback when I saw you, but I was d I noticed you were there before you left." Violet ced the teapot to the side and shed him a kind smile. "You''re always like that, Your Highness. Even in the past, you always leave without a word."

    He lowered his eyes and kept silent. Her gaze remained on him and he could feel it deep into his bones, but he couldn''t raise his head.

    "Your Highness," called Violet, as she sighed quietly. "How have you been? I bet it was hectic back in the empire."

    "The eighth prince was sentenced for banishment, but while he was being transported, he tried to escape and died," Roman reported after a minute of silence, raising his gaze when he had mustered enough courage to face her. The second he did, loneliness immediately resurfaced in her eyes.

    But Violet still smiled subtly. "Is that why you came in here, Your Highness?"

    "No." He lowered his eyes once again. "I just thought you might want to hear it."

    "And why would I want to hear about someone who might not have thought of me and my children during thest moments of his life?" Her question caused his forehead to crease and once again raised his head. "I do not hate Carlos, Your Highness. I loved him with all my heart. I still do. Even when I left the pce, I kept thinking about him and lost sleep, wondering if I made the correct decision."

    Violet smacked her lips and smiled bitterly, staring at her reflection in the teacup. "However, as we settled down in this ce and adjusted to the new life... there were many things I learned in that short time." She raised her head, maintaining her kind smile.

    "The pce... isn''t where I and my children belong, Your Highness. Our lives now might not be as luxurious as before, but my children can now y freely and be children as they were supposed to be. I do not have to look over my shoulder or tread on thin ice," she exined in a relieved tone. "Not just that, but we can now go out in the town and enjoy it without restrictions. This may sound all selfish, but my point is, we''re happier."

    "I still think about Carlos at times, especially during the first weeks. He was my husband and the father of my children, after all. But after seeing what other people could do for their families... our family is miserable. I didn''t realize how miserable I was until I parted with him," she continued andughed weakly. "All I can remember whenever I recount the years of being his wife was the fear of losing his grace. Still, I loved Carlos... or maybe I think I fell in love with the illusion of the prince I created in my head. "

    Her expression turned somber as she breathed out carefully. "You know Carlos, Your Highness. He was someone I will never make happy. I was never enough for him бк my children weren''t enough for him. Actually, not just him, but everyone in the pce... we''re never enough for anybody."<sub> </sub>

    "No matter what I do or understand everything or stomach the things I cannot stomach, no one will see or recognize that," she added bitterly, taking him aback because she never spoke such sentiments in the past. Violet was someone who would simply smile even when her husband was shamelessly talking about other women in her presence.

    "Maybe I crossed his head when he was knocking on death''s door, but I will never know for sure since the dead don''t talk and that is absolutely fine with me." This time, her smile stretched peacefully. It wasn''t a smile out of relief or mockery. If anything, her smile was something that had epted how things turned out.

    "I don''t regret leaving the pce and I know my children will someday understand this decision. Their future... their life might not be as grandiose as being royalty, but I know they will live happily even without the title." Her eyes gleamed with pride and rity at the thought of this decision she feared in the beginning. "Maybe my only regret is leaving without bidding you farewell or thanking you."

    His eyes slowly dted while she covered her lips with the back of her hand as she chuckled. He looked surprised, which was something she found hrious.

    "Your Highness, I did say anything I do is never enough for everyone. But after ruminating about it, I realize that is not entirely true." She looked at him softly as she exhaled sharply. "There''s always that one person who looks out for me and cares for me sincerely. He was always silent and never truly said anything to me, but I''m certain I wouldn''t have survived the pce without him protecting me silently."

    Violet bit her lips before she leaned forward. Her hand stretched over the table and held his hand, squeezing it lightly.

    "Was it you?" she asked while his brows rose. "I am not asking about the person who protected me from the shadows, but the poems and flowers before I married the eighth prince. Did I mistake the sender?"

    Roman held his breath as his back stiffened. His silence and stiff expression were enough for her to get the answer she needed.

    Her pen pal, the person she had fallen in love with before she was married to the eighth prince, wasn''t Carlos. Carlos simply stole the identity of the man she had fallen in love with for power and deceived her for years.

    No wonder the man she married was nothing like the person she had exchanged letters with and captured her heart with his humor. If Violet didn''t leave the pce and didn''t have free time to think things through, she wouldn''t realize these things.

    "Romeбн it might bete for us to mend or fix our misunderstanding. However, I always wished for your well-being." She squeezed his hand once again and sighed. "I know you are not a saint, but I''m definite you are a good man. The crown princeбн might favor you now, but once he figured out about youбн Rome, don''t die."

    Violet''s eyes slowly filled with worry while Roman was rendered speechless at the tremor in his hand. He could feel her worry and fear in her grip.

    "Don''tбн go back there, Your Highness. It might sound pretentious of me, but the crown prince scares me. He was cruel to those who opposed him, but the depths of his cruelty to those who betray him are far more ominous. He will not let you off easily."

 Chapter 301 Forward Is The Only Way

    <strong>"Don''tбн go back there, Your Highness. It might sound pretentious of me, but the crown prince scares me. He was cruel to those who opposed him, but the depths of his cruelty to those who betray him are far more ominous. He will not let you off easily."</strong>

    Roman let out a deep sigh and snapped his eyes as those words days ago repeated in his head. He gazed at the empty hallway and trod carefully, recalling the look on Violet''s face when she asked him to stay.

    He loved her for years бк even before Violet and Carlos got married or even met.

    He should''ve married her. He already nned on proposing to the most beautiful woman heid his eyes on. However, it was obvious his n didn''t head that route. Carlos got in the way; the man who had always hated Roman for one reason.

    Apparently, Carlos found out about Roman''s inkling towards this certain princess. When he saw Violet, he understood why. Considering the surname she carried, unlike Roman, who believed love should be the foundation of marriage, Carlos believed in the benefits he would gain in marriage.

    So Carlos eventually married Violet under the guise of being her pen pal. Still, this wasn''t enough for Carlos to tear Roman''s morale for all the years the eighth prince endured beingpared to the revered seventh prince.

    Carlos challenged Roman in a duel and scarred the seventh prince''s face forever. In this way, Violet wouldn''t even bat him an eye and Roman would be too ashamed to even approach his wife.

    That was why the Roman only loved Violet at arm''s length.

    He kept this secret for years, and Violet didn''t even know. She kept believing that the man she fell in love with and who fulfilled his promise to marry her was Carlos. Not knowing she was simply caught in the web of lies.

    Knowing that now wouldn''t change the past. Violet eventually loved Carlos and had children with him. A lot had happened and they couldn''t reverse the time to change their decisions. They could only ept that they couldn''t change the past and could simply do what they must in the future.

    ''Princess Violet...'' Roman whispered in his head as his office came into sight. ''... I''m sorry.''

    He never said no to her, but when she asked him to stay, he couldn''t agree, no matter how he wanted to. She didn''t ask him to stay and continue the love that didn''t even bloom. Violet only wanted him to stay to avoid Joaquin''s wrath once the crown prince found out about Roman''s agenda.

    Roman stopped in front of the door with his hand on the handle. He raised his gaze, staring at the door sharply. His gut feeling told him someone was inside and he definitely knew what to expect.

    His jaw tightened. ''There''s no turning back now.'' бк from this moment on, everyone could only move forward. It wouldn''t matter if they were heading straight to the cliffs of hell or the gates of salvation. They бк Roman could only move forward because he had no other choice but that.

    He took a deep breath and pushed the door open. As soon as he did, his eyes fell on the figure sitting behind the desk, feet up. Roman secretly clenched his teeth, seeing Joaquin leisurely polishing the des of his dagger before thetter paused.

    Joaquin slowly cocked his head back and set his eyes on the door. The side of his lips curled up before he retracted his feet from the desk, stabbing the dagger into the surface of the desk.

    "Greetings to His Royal Highness," greeted Roman with his fist across his chest, and then closed the door behind him. His eyes moved to the corner and caught Hernan standing in the corner.<sub> </sub>

    "Rome, my brother." Joaquin smiled, pushing himself from the chair and propping his side against the edge of the desk, arms crossed. "I am in a pretty bad mood, my sword. Care to exin where were you during the huntingpetition? I heard you just went away in a hurry and returned... immediately dropping by in the third prince''s chancery."

    The crown prince''s eyes drooped as a hair-raising glint flickered across his eyes. "You are my sword and my trusted aide. I will give you a chance to exin. But just so you know, don''t even think about going in circles. I don''t think I have the patience to spare after losing quite a few people."

    "People... that only a selected few knew their connections to me," he added and arched a brow.

    Roman maintained a straight face despite the insinuation. The crown prince wasn''t stupid not to be suspicious of him; he wouldn''t reach this far if he was easily fooled.

    "I had pledged to make you king. Everything I do is for my king and for this great country." The seventh prince hung his head low. "If my king cannot trust me, then I do not mind slitting my throat to prove my loyalty."

    "Hah..." Joaquinughed in amusement as he rocked his head. Roman''s determination had always been believable andmendable. The reason the crown prince trusted him and took him in was because of the same reason.

    "Go ahead." His smile faded as his expression darkened, waiting for Roman to raise his head. "Slit your throat, Rome. Only when you''re dead will I know you were loyal to me. There''s no other way, I guess."

    Roman''s jaw tightened as he sized the crown prince up. Thetter was serious, and he was surely suspecting him. A shallow breath slipped past the seventh prince''s lips before he drew his sword. Without a second hesitation, Roman ced the de against the side of his neck with his other hand on the back of the de.

    "It was an honor to serve you, Your Royal Highness." His eye held Joaquin''s solemnly. "Long live the crown prince, my king."

    With that being said, Roman gritted his teeth as he pressed the de into his neck until blood oozed from it. But just before he sliced it downpletely to his throat, Joaquin spoke.

    "Stop." Joaquin''s eyes gazed at the blood across Roman''s neck and, by the looks of the sh, thetter truly nned to kill himself. He picked up the dagger standing erected on the desk and then sauntered towards Roman.

    Standing in front of the seventh prince, Joaquin''s eyes didn''t show the slightest pity.

    "Roman, my dearest sword, you know very well I wouldn''t want you dead... at least, not now." Joaquin raised the dagger and pressed the de against Roman''s cheek, slicing it just enough for it to scar. "I will let you off now since you served me for years. But once I figured out you''re making a fool out of me, I will kill all those people you''ve been protecting and I will make sure you will watch them get dismembered before you."

    Joaquin smirked as he marked an X on Roman''s cheek while blood oozed from it. Ignoring the oozing blood from Roman''s neck, the crown prince patted his shoulder before he walked past Roman.

    "Let''s go, Hernan. I still need to visit my wife."

 Chapter 302 I Kissed A Girl... :D

    <strong>[SAPPHIRE PALACE]</strong>

    "Thank you, Inez." Aries smiled as she gazed at the basket ofvender on herp, sitting on the bed, back against the headboard. "How did you know these are my favorites?"

    Inez was perching on the armchair beside the bed, smiling in relief as the crown princess seemed to have liked the flowers she brought. Just now, she passed by the tons of flowers sent by nobles to wish the crown princess a speedy recovery. However, they were all outside, stressing the servant about where they would put all those flowers.

    "Wild guess." Inez shrugged.

    Ariesughed. "Seriously?"

    "I''m jesting. It''s the perfume you always wear, Your Royal Highness. I thought this flower might have some special meaning for you."

    "Danie," Aries corrected with a sharp exhale. "It''s just the two of us, so there''s no need to use honorifics. It just feels distant and thank you, I absolutely love these flowers."

    Inez pursed her lips and bit her inner lip, studying the crown princess''s soft expression. "Dani... e."

    "Hmm? I didn''t hear you."

    "Elle." Inez smiled as that suited her even more, especially the meaning behind it. "Should I call you that?"

    Aries''s eyes softened and nodded mildly. "I like it."

    The two of them stared at each other with a smile before they both chuckle all of a sudden. Inez shook her head and then raised her eyes.

    "This might be a little overdue, but how are you faring?" she asked, to change their silly subject.

    "Well..." Aries raised her eyes when Gertrude suddenly appeared from the other part of the room. She smiled.

    "Gertrude, please prepare a vase and my kits. I would love to arrange the flowers the ninth princess brought for me," she ordered, and Gertrude bowed and executed the order without a word. Aries then shifted her eyes back to Inez.

    "I am recovering well, as you can see. Many had sent me flowers, but none of them inspired me to arrange a vase," she humored with a chuckle. "Would you like to join me, Inez?"

    "I would love to."

    With that being said, they waited for Gertrude to return, which only took a few minutes. Helping the crown princess, Gertrude efficiently ced the basket ofvender on the table inside the crown princess''s room. She also arranged the tools Aries would use on the table before leaving the two alone.

    Aries and Inez sat down on the long settee; the ninth princess handing her stems ofvender while Aries would cut them short. Their routine continued, conversing from time to time with just about anything else.

    "By the way, Your High бк Elle." Inez chuckled when Aries looked back at her. "Did Countess Lloyd..."

    She trailed off when Aries winced as she cut the tip of her index because of the question. Inez immediately reached for her hand and took out a handkerchief from her sleeve to wrap it around the crown princess''s bleeding finger.

    "I''m sorry," expressed Inez in worry. "I didn''t mean to mention her."<sub> </sub>

    Aries forced a smile as she looked up at her. "Don''t apologize. I was simply surprised since I haven''t thought about her."

    Inez frowned as she stared at Aries''s face from this close distance. The surprise and sadness in the crown princess'' eyes were too obvious not to notice. Surely, Cherry, herdy-in-waiting, had caused trauma and distress in the crown princess.

    "Let me," she offered while Aries nodded, letting Inez treat her finger.

    While Aries was staring at Inez and sensed the somber mood that descended upon them, a shallow sigh slipped past her lips. She bit her lips before smacking them.

    "I do not hate Countess Lloyd," Aries confessed while Inez kept her focus on wrapping the tip of the crown princess''s finger. "I am not a saint, Inez. But I do not hate her because I understand why she did what she did. Even so, I cannot deny the fear she instilled in my heart."

    Aries waited for Inez to look up before she continued with a bitter smile.

    "This isn''t about infidelity or the matters of the heart. The crown prince is important to me because... at the end of the day, if he falls, I will too." Inez slowly raised her head and instantly caught theplex emotion filling Aries''s eyes. "All I can do is keep his favor, smile, and please him because I am nothing without him."

    Tears swam in Aries''s eyes as she gripped Inez''s hand until they trembled. "I feared that one of these days before I can even establish my position, Countess Lloyd or any woman will take away my little power. And yet, I can''t do anything about it because the Lloyds are the crown prince''s people. I can only tolerate and desperately cling to my husband in hopes he would stop meeting another woman in secret."

    As thest syble slipped past her lips, a tear rolled down her cheek. Seeing this felt like a hand also gripped Inez''s heart because she could understand the crown princess'' woes.

    "I had sacrificed a lot of things, Inez. A lot. And I''m angry at myself because I can''t even do anything about it," she added while her lower lip quivered, staring into Inez''s pair of silver eyes. "I feel hopeless, pathetic, and --"

    "Stop." Inez cupped her cheek and shook her head, wiping Aries''s tears with her thumb. "You''re not nothing, Elle. You are everything."

    The side of the ninth princess''s lips curled up weakly, hurt to see her in pain and in tears. She had always known the crown princess was strong, but everything Aries said was understandable. Women... heavily relied on their husband''s favor. Inez loathed this practice deep into her bones, but that was the reality.

    Men had choices.

    Men couldmit infidelity and get away with it.

    Men... they could do anything, sing about their rights, and people would listen.

    But women only had one choice, to get married and hope he was a good man. When women had an affair, they were whores. And when women talk? They were simply words from a bitch not worthy to listen.

    Inez was fighting for what she thought was right бк the only problem was... she was doing this for her own benefit and was fighting solely for herself. Not all the women in Maganti.

    This was what Aries''s problem... or what Inez believed.

    "You are strong, beautiful, and smart," she continued and smiled, cupping Aries''s cheek with both her palms. "That is why I... admired you. Please do not cry and do not think you are nothing because when I first saw you, I thought you had everything and nowбн you''re my everything."

    "Inez..." Another tear rolled down Aries''s eyes before she slowly closed them when Inez slowly leaned in to im her lips.

 Chapter 303 [Bonus Chapter]When The Moth Dances With The Flames

    Inez was a young princess who liked dolls. She liked them but not to y with them or be like them.

    She liked dolls... in another ''sinful'' way.

    At a young age, the ninth princess was aware of the growing ''abnormality'' within her. She was always curious about girls, but male children didn''t interest her at all. It scared her, especially while growing up. Thus, she deluded herself for years until she believed her own lies.

    The ninth princess cut down anyone who would poke that part in her heart and touch her curious mind. She channeled this emotion into anger, venting it to the beautifuldies who caught her eyes. Thus, beautifuldies who would cross her path would rather meet an ident that would scar them for life. Some just disappeared without a trace.

    However, when Joaquin returned from a victorious small war and brought a war trophy with him, things spiraled for Inez. She was simply curious at first since Joaquin was crazy about this woman. So, when Joaquin had his fun and lost remorse for this war trophy, Inez had a bet with him, which she won.

    It was out of pure curiosity since she kept hearing this war trophy was truly someone men might die for. And they were right.

    When Inez came into that old dungeon where Aries was locked in, even though she smelled terrible, dirty, and littered with bruises, she was glorious. No wonder Carlos couldn''t resist or stop himself when heid his eyes on her бк that was what crossed her head.

    She simply wanted to see her up close, but for reasons unknown, Inez took her back to the Lazuli Pce to take care of her like how she would y doll. However, Aries saw through her and shamelessly revealed who Inez was.

    Actually, that didn''t anger Inez. It scared her.

    Aries scared her because she knew about it yet, the ninth princess didn''t have the heart to kill her. All she could do was make her suffer, but that wasn''t enough to kill Aries''s spirit. Because every single time Aries had a chance, she would whisper in Inez''s ears like a demon, reminding her of what she was inside.

    A man trapped in a woman''s body.

    That was the reason her blood ran cold when she saw the crown princess for the first time. Yet, even when Inez pledged to make her life a living hell, she couldn''t help but fall for her. Those opalescent eyes that always had meaning, the way her lips move, her touches that set her body aze бк it drove her nuts.

    But thest straw was that handkerchief. That handkerchief the crown princess gave her proved the feeling was mutual. Inez felt epted, thus throwing her rationale out of the window.

    She wanted to take it slow since they hadn''t confessed their feelings verbally, but seeing her cry in fear and distress, it tore her heart into pieces. Before she knew it, she lost her discretion and expressed her heart for the first time.

    And it felt... wrong and right at the same time.

    <strong>"What, Princess? You don''t like how my breast felt like? Ten out of ten men said they''re amazing!" </strong>

    Inez recoiled and pushed the crown princess back in shock when ''that'' lunatic Aries''s maniacal voice suddenly crossed her head. Her eyes snapped open as she heard Aries''s tauntingughter echoing in her head.

    "I бк Inez?" she blinked and gazed back at the crown princess with shaking eyes. Her breath instantly hitched because, in her eyes, she couldn''t help butpare the wicked grin of that woman and this worried and shocked expression on that same face.<sub> </sub>

    Aries pursed her lips and reached out to her. However, Inez suddenly sprung up to her feet.

    "Inez?"

    "Don''t!" Inez''s breath hitched once again, looking down at her with shaking eyes. "I бк I''m sorry. There was an important arrangement that I forgot about. I бк I''ll be on my way."

    "Inez..." Aries trailed off as she frowned, while Inez already walked away in a rush. But before thetter could leave, she looked back only to see the worry in the crown princess''s eyes. But she didn''t return and dragged her feet out of the chambers.

    Aries stayed in her spot as her eyes were fixed on the door. It took minutes before the side of her lips curled up into a smirk as she licked her lips. She wiped the corner of her lips while her eyelids drooped dangerously.

    "I knew she will like it." She leaned back, lowering her eyes to thevender on the table. Aries bent over to pick up a stem, leaning back, eyes on thevender in her hand.

    "The moth wants to dance with the mes, not knowingбн" she whispered, running her fingertip up the stem delicately. "бн it will burn her alive."

    <strong>SNAP!</strong>

    Aries smirked as her eyes watched thevender fall to the floor. For reasons unknown, the silent thud of the flower hitting the floor echoed in her ear while everything Inez did to her just because she couldn''t ept herself rewound in her head in a sh.

    And just like how Inez stripped her, walked her naked like a dog, hunted her in freezing winter, whipped her to submit, and drown her until she was out of breath, Aries promised to return the favor the same way. Strip the ninth princess until there was only the naked truth, have her walk in shame, and then drown her in her own pool of blood until she could no longer breathe.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhile, in Curtis''s roomбн</strong>

    Abel was sitting on the armchair, his leg was resting over the other with an air of nonchnce around him. Curtis was in his usual spot, just right across from him. Abel shook his foot and arched a brow, cocking his head back, eyes on Curtis.

    "Hey," called Abel, waiting for Curtis to raise his head before he grinned deviously. "Shall we kiss?"

    Curtis coughed in his own saliva before he held his breath and looked back at him in horror and disbelief. Abel shrugged.

    "I never did it with a man," he confessed indifferently, even though Curtis was obviously not interested in it. "On the second thought, I think I did. Ariel. I missed him."

 Chapter 304 [Bonus Chapter]M

    <strong>[ Lazuli Pce ]</strong>

    <strong>SLAM!</strong>

    Inez stood behind the shut door of her chambers. Her breathing was suspended as she broke out in sweats.

    "Your Highness --"

    "Leave me alone!" she roared at the person who knocked from the other side of the door. "I want to be alone. Anyone who disturbs me will be punished. Heavily."

    She was panting as she retracted her back from the door, ring daggers at it. Her hands balled into a fist before she bit her thumb while pacing back and forth.

    "I lost my mind," she muttered, recalling the taste of the crown princess''s lips and the aromatic scent of her perfume that lingered in her nostrils.

    The thought of how the crown princess looked when she left stopped her pacing. Bitterness instantly filled her eyes as she bit her lower lip, running her fingers through her auburn locks.

    "It''s her fault," came out a whisper. "That woman from Rikhill..."

    If only that fallen princess didn''t have an uncanny resemnce to the crown princess, Inez wouldn''t feel this restlessness. Even though ''that'' Aries was nothing like the crown princess, they still looked like each other. Knowing what she did to Aries, Inez was scared.

    Did she really like the crown princess? Or... was she simply attracted to her because of that ruined princess?

    After all, Aries... that fallen princess... was her first love.

    She may be ''tainted,'' and her unbending will was repulsive, but Inez loved her. They were both twisted and even when that woman would taunt and mock her, her body ached for her.

    "If not because of that bitch..." Inez clutched her bicep as hatred and love blurred whenever that fallen princess was in the picture. "If not --"

    Suddenly, Inez''s face and mind went nk for a moment. Her eyes narrowed after a minute before a weak chuckle slipped past her lips.

    "That''s right." While nodding, she let go of her bicep. "She''s dead already and I can''t really me her. She''s not the one who is at fault here."

    "It''s that Countess...", she added, thinking Cherry was one of the key figures who led Rikhill into its demise. "That woman is dead and my rtionship with the crown princess wouldn''t be thisplicated if Joaquin didn''t connive with that mere countess. That''s right... it''s their fault."

    Inezughed as she tied everything, pushing all the me to Cherry and Joaquin. If Joaquin and Cherry weren''t greedy, there was no way for Inez and Aries to even meet in the first ce. She would''ve met the crown princess first бк her soulmate.

    Yes. Inez believed the crown princess was her soulmate since they were both attracted to each other. But this world... never approved of such sinful attraction. Still, it wouldn''t be thisplicated since they could hide their rtionship.

    Who would suspect that the two of them were in love with each other, right?

    Inez would even go as far as marrying just anybody to continue her rtionship with the crown princess. After all, it wasn''t an everyday thing one would hear about a rtionship between the same gender.

    "Those two..." Inez''s eyes darkened as this realization that dawned on her just now was thest straw. Not only did Cherry instill fear in her beloved queen''s heart and Joaquin take everything for granted, but they were also the culprit why Inez was losing her mind about Aries.

    "I wouldn''t meet that bitch if not for them, and my queen will not be in pain if they weren''t sinful." Her eyes grew icy, as there were many other factors why those two deserved death. "I will make them pay... for her..."

    Inez remained silent as her heart grew calmer at the decision that crossed her head. After a minute, she snapped her eyes at the door coldly.

    "Summon Leon and tell him I have a job for him." She raised her voice, enough for someone outside her chamber to hear her. "I will need him tonight."

    <strong>*******</strong><sub> </sub>

    <strong>Back to the Sapphire Pce...</strong>

    "You''re back?" Aries smiled from the settee where she was arranging the vase, gazing at the crown prince, who was strutting his way towards her. Joaquin smiled before he noticed her index finger.

    "What happened?" he asked as soon as he sat down beside her, reaching for her bandaged finger. A frown instantly appeared on his face when she retrieved her hand before he could touch her.

    "Circe." He looked at her solemnly, catching the sudden panic she was hiding in her eyes. "Can I take a look?"

    "But it''s nothing..." she pursed her lips when he opened his palm as an answer. "I simply nipped it while cutting some stems. It''s not a big deal."

    Aries reluctantly ced her hand on top of his palm while exining how she got it. Joaquin simply nced at her before he unwrapped the cloth around the tip of her index.

    "That is quite a big cut," he pointed out as he raised his eyes to her. "Circe, I approve that arranging flowers had always been your hobby. However, if you keep cutting yourself identally, I''m afraid I will have to forbid you from this activity."

    Aries frowned and lowered her eyes while Joaquin sighed. He held her hand closer to him gently.

    "My wife," he called, waiting for her to look back at him. "I nearly lost you, my love. Nothing ever scared me in my life, but when I saw you back there... I didn''t know what to do. I don''t want to restrict you, but if it''s only hurting you, I will have no choice but to forbid you to keep you safe."

    Joaquin raised his hand and tucked her golden hair behind her ear. "I don''t want to lose you and that is something that came clear to me during the huntingpetition." He looked her in the eye and smiled subtly. "You understand me, right? You''re my wife and you are mine. I will protect you, even from yourself."

    "I will be careful next time," came out a weak voice while he nodded.

    "Just this once. I will let it slide."

    Aries pursed her lips and nodded, sensing his strong desire to control and own herpletely, which started after the incident in the huntingpetition. She didn''t want to argue with him, knowing he might snap and turn violent, and that wasn''t her n.

    "Take care, always," he expressed, nting a kiss on her knuckles while she smiled subtly. "Anyway, I heard you received a visitor today."

    As soon as those slipped past his lips, Joaquin narrowed his eyes mildly as he caught the fear in her eyes for a split second. However, Aries smiled almost immediately, as if she was trying to hide something.

    "The ninth princess came by," she exined while Joaquin rocked his head as he didn''t want to probe бк for now.

    "Is that so...?" his brow arched when she suddenly squeezed his hand. "Yes?"

    Hesitation glinted across her eyes before she shook her head. "Nothing."

    "Circe."

    "It''s really nothing."

    "Danie Circe Imperial." Aries held her breath as his eyes grew solemn, looking at her in the eye. "What is it? I hate secrets and keeping one is thest thing you will want to do to me."

    A minute had passed in silence before her expression grew somber and her lips parted.

    "Between the ninth princess and I, who will you believe, Joaquin?" she asked as she raised her eyes once again, revealing a thousand emotions condensed into one.

    And that second, Joaquin told himself... Inez had a fun life.

 Chapter 305 Trust Me

    Conan asked Aries before she set off in Maganti. His words were, "I understand the crown prince should fall slowly, but can''t you just poison the rest?"

    Aries remembered the curiosity in his eyes while the side of her lips curled up into a smirk. Conan was the person who preferred ending or settling things in the most efficient and fastest way.

    Her answer was, "I am poisoning them," and then chuckled when his brows creased, so she rified. "I am a venomous wench, am I not?"

    A poison that could blind. A drug that would make them lose their minds, a foul heathen that would corrupt them with her beauty... and then castrate them.

    After everything she had done to reach this far, Aries was now ready to strum their heartstrings. To strip them all bare just the same wicked way they ripped her clothes and defiled her innocence.

    Just the same way. No more, no less.

    "Circe..." Aries blinked and a tear instantly rolled down her cheek while Joaquin wiped it gently. "Forgive me for not knowing your sufferings."

    She leaned her cheek against his palm, teary eyes on him. "I am disgusting, Joaquin. How am I --"

    "Don''t say that." Joaquin shook his head as he raised his other hand and held her other jaw. He searched for her eyes, nodding encouragingly at her.

    "You''re my wife and what happened to you doesn''t make you anything less," he affirmed, containing his anger just so she could calm down. "I am here and I will protect you."

    Aries huped as she squeezed his hand. "Joaquin..."

    "I understand why you didn''t say a word. You kept your silence for me..." his lips curled up bitterly, wiping her tears with his thumb. "I should be the one who needs to feel shame, for my wife had sacrificed in silence for me."

    "What are we going to do now, Joaquin? I''m scared." Aries squeezed his hand even tighter until it trembled. "This isn''t just like Carlos. My name is tied with this and who would believe an outsider --"

    "Circe." His jaw tightened as he ground his teeth. "You''re not an outsider anymore. You are my wife and an Imperial."

    She bit her lower lip to stop them from quivering, hearing his silent sigh. His eyes were burning, but his voice was gentle and sympathetic. It only showed Joaquin... had changed for her. It wasn''t a change for the good or bad, but a personal change exclusively for her.

    "I will protect you and I will say this repeatedly until you believe me," he reassured, but only bitterness filled her eyes.

    "Words aren''t enough, Joaquin. You need to do something," she stressed through her gritted teeth. "I need actions, Joaquin. This will destroy me, and it is driving me crazy."

    He held his breath, understanding where this desperation and fear wereing from. What his wife confessed would not only put the royal family under the spotlight, but it would surely make them aughingstock. It was far different from the scandal about Carlos.

    However, even if the crown princess didn''t ask for anything, her confession was enough to anger him. He was simply holding back because his wife was still recovering. He cared for her and that was the truth and nothing but the truth.<sub> </sub>

    "Come here," he called under his breath, pulling her gently into his embrace. Joaquin rubbed her back carefully while she clutched his back with her chin over his shoulder.

    "Do you trust me?" he asked, and it took several seconds before she nodded. "Then will you trust me with my n?"

    p Aries slowly pushed his chest to create distance between them. "What n?"</anda>

    "Keep meeting her." Her mouth fell open as all the colors on her face turned white when he answered. Joaquin held her shoulder and squeezed them lightly, staring her in the eye.

    "I swear to God I hate this just as much as you, Circe. However, I can''t think about any other resolution other than this," he exined helplessly.

    "You want me to keep meeting someone like her? And relive with my fear and trauma?" she asked in disbelief, a reaction he had expected. "Joaquin, how can you sing your devotion and love to me if you are pushing me to return to something you know can kill me?"

    "Circe, please listen to me and understand." Joaquin squeezed her shoulder lightly. "This isn''t as simple as silencing someone. I had enemies. The current state of affairs and the matters regarding the Valiente are already too much to handle at the same time. We always needed reasons бк a strong one. You know that."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips. "Don''t let this rattle you and lose your judgment. My wife is the woman who can put a man on a death row out of it with just mere words." He smiled subtly and nodded.

    "I need that Circe. I need you to be strong now of all times," he added under his breath.

    Aries pursed her lips into a thin line, keeping her silence for an entire minute. The two of them simply looked at each other and he was patiently waiting for her answer.

    "I understand." She breathed out and nodded. "I will stomach it and trust you."

    "Good girl." He heaved a sigh of relief, bending over until his forehead was resting over her. "I will make sure no one will ever touch you again. You''re mine and she dared..."

    Aries lowered her eyes, inhaling his heated breaths, and got a whip of the mixed scent of wine and tobo. "She will harm you."

    "She will never be sessful." Joaquin slowly drew his head back and held her hand. "I promise. Touching my bottom line is thest thing anyone would want, and she just did it."

    His lips curled as he raised her hand and ced a peck on her knuckles. "I won''t let her get away with it."

    "Thank you, Joaquin," Aries whispered and copsed into his embrace. She raised her head, resting her chin over his shoulder. Unlike her pitiful expression, her eyes narrowed dangerously as the side of her lips curled up.

    "No problem, my love." Joaquin smiled while patting her back. However, for some reason, he caught something from the corner of his eyes. When he moved his eyes towards it, itnded on a cab stand. His eyes slowly widened when he caught the smirk on her face reflecting from it.

 Chapter 306 Dizzy

    Joaquin stayed with her and treated her finger before he bid her farewell. But as soon as he left, now standing outside the chambers, he looked back. A deep exhale slipped past his lips, recalling the wicked smirk on her face when he wasn''t looking and then looking all pitiful the second they faced each other.

    "That crazy bitch..." he whispered, shaking his head in disbelief before he marched away. "I can''t believe I fell for it."

    As he sauntered through the hallway, the side of his lips curled up and then followed by a series of low chuckles. Although he felt like the crown princess toyed with him, he couldn''t me her.

    The crown princess confessed to being defiled by the ninth princess and got ckmailed. ording to her, the ninth princess threatened to drag her down if she talked. It would be a huge scandal since this wasn''t any normal love affair. It would be a scandal that would stain the entire royal family.

    Almost believable... but after Joaquin saw her smirk, he figured the story wasn''t as simple as that.

    His wife wasn''t a victim, just as she imed she was. Knowing how scary and cunning she could be, she definitely uncovered Inez''s secret and use it to seduce her. That was why the crown princess kept defending the ninth princess, even when Joaquin warned her about his sister.

    Inez was someone his wife could use in the future. After all, the ninth princess was popr, had control over the high society, and had a little bit of influence in the royal court. She was an overachiever for a woman, in his opinion.

    The crown princess certainly knew this and used her beauty to get the ninth princess wrapped around her fingers.

    This was enough to anger Joaquin and teach his wife a lesson. However, he didn''t. Matter of fact, he wasn''t angry or hurt. Even though there was a possibility his wife fooled around with his sister behind his back or how far this sickening affair reached.

    In his conclusion, since the two of them бк the crown prince and the crown princess бк had now a mutual understanding, the crown princess wanted to keep a clean record. And to do that, she needed to erase people who could give her problems in the future.

    In other words, the crown princess wanted to clean her hands without soiling for thest time. That was why she confessed everything to him to do the job for her.

    "Quite clever of her," he muttered, seeing his people waiting for him at the vestibule of the pce. "What can I expect from my wife? I wouldn''t fall for her if she wasn''t as diabolical and crazy as I am."

    Just this once... Joaquin would let this slide. After all, he couldn''t me her. She was someone who needed reassurance, and they only recently trusted each other.

    ''Circe... let''s clean the empire before we ascend the throne,'' he thought as he passed by his knights who bowed without giving them a look, exiting the Sapphire pce with his chin held high. ''And that will happen soon.''

    <strong>******</strong>

    "That crazy maniac," she spat out, staring at the cab stand in the corner of the room. "Oh, how low had he fallen?"

    Aries tossed herself to the side of the settee until she was reclining against it. She propped her jaw against her knuckles and stared at the cab stand for a long time. Ever since the incident, she was pardoned to leave work throughout the entire season and focus on her recovery.<sub> </sub>

    "Should I hang out with Curtis?" she wondered, thinking she had all the time in the world to spare. "Well, I don''t think I have any more visitors today."

    Aries rocked her head and assisted herself up. However, as soon as she stood up, her vision zoomed in and out and her body swayed. She clutched the settee on instinct, stopping herself from falling. She stayed in that stance for a moment before she opened her eyes weakly.

    "That''s weird," she mumbled, as she felt very dizzy and weak when she stood up as if she would faint. Aries shook her head mildly as she carefully straightened her back. This time, she didn''t feel dizzy or anything amiss.

    "Was it because of stress? Or maybe because I hit my head days ago." She took a slow step, just in case she would feel dizzy again. A sigh of relief slipped past her lips as she regained confidence when she was certain it was a momentary dizziness.

    But before Aries could even walk out of the chambers, she halted when someone knocked outside.

    "Your Highness, this is yourdy-in-waiting," announced Cherry from the outside, making Aries''s brow arch.

    ''I didn''t know Inez will move this fast,'' Aries thought and shrugged nonchntly. "Come in."

    As soon as her permission reached the person''s ears on the other side of the door, it creaked open ever so slowly. Aries didn''t sit down again as she waited until Cherry appear in front of her. As usual, Cherry curtsied while greeting the crown princess before she lifted her eyes up at Aries.

    "Countess Lloyd, I thought you will not visit me." Aries smiled and motioned her hand towards the armchair across from the settee Aries had previously sat on. "Come, take a seat."

    Aries turned around to pick up the bell on the coffee table and rang it. But when she turned her head back, Cherry was still standing on the same spot while staring her straight in the eye.

    "Is there something wrong, Countess Lloyd?" she tilted her head to the side, raising her brows when Cherry didn''t answer. What happened next was something Aries didn''t expect.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    Aries frowned as her brows creased and at the same time, Gertrude entered the room after hearing the bell. Thetter stopped, standing behind Cherry, who was now kneeling in front of the crown princess.

    "Your Royal Highness!" eximed Cherry with a shaking voice, raising her pale face to look at Aries. The crown princess was simply looking down at her with cold and apathetic eyes.

    "Please... have mercy on me... Aime."

 Chapter 307 [Bonus Chapter]Show You How It Is Done

    "Please... have mercy on me... Aime."

    Gertrude held her breath as she stared at the crown princess''sdy-in-waiting. Even though she couldn''t see Cherry''s face, she could feel the woman''s fear.

    "Gertrude." Gertrude raised her eyes to Aries and saw thetter wave. "Don''t let anyone in."

    "Ye бк yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Gertrude didn''t idle as she bowed and rushed outside while Aries watched her silently. When thetter heard the door opening and closing, her eyes fell down on Cherry''s paleplexion.

    "Countess Lloyd, why are you kneeling?" Aries asked while tilting her head to the side. "You don''t look well. Did the huntingpetition, perhaps, traumatize you?"

    "I know..." Cherry''s lips quivered, clutching her skirt. "I already know, Aime. I already know about you, about Curtis бк I know."

    Aries quirked a brow as she studied Cherry''s face before the corner of her lips curled up. Seeing the wicked smirk that resurfaced on her face, Cherry''s shoulder tensed up and her back stiffened.

    That sinister look on the crown princess''s face was enough to make all the hair behind Cherry''s neck rise.

    "So Curtis had a chat with you?" Aries mused as she didn''t conceal the enjoyment of watching her kneel. "I was just looking forward to what sort of scheme you wille up with, but you gave up easily this time."

    "Aime..." Cherry''s voice shook as she perked up. "Please... don''t do this to me."

    "Do what to you, Cherry?" The smile on Aries''s face faded as she advanced in her direction. "I hadn''t done anything just yet, Cherry."

    Aries squatted down in front of her to see her up close. She bobbed her face to examine Cherry, and thetter''sck of powder was enough to tell Aries Cherry had troubled days. Even when Aries wasn''t sure what Curtis told Cherry or how they even met, she was certain Curtis didn''t give her mercy.

    Both Aries and Curtis were angry. Furious was even an understatement to describe their anger.

    "I didn''t betray you," Cherry confessed with a shaking voice, more terrified now that Aries''s face was only a palm length away from her. "I didn''t have a choice. Joaquin forced me to do it and I... I''m just trying to survive, Aime. Please... understand."

    She desperately clutched Aries''s hand, desperate for Aries to hear her exnation. "I wanted to help you, but I was scared and he was watching me. I had no power to help you, and he even forced me to mock you to prove my loyalty. But I loved and treasured you бк you know that. You and --"<sub> </sub>

    Cherry abruptly halted when Aries ced a finger in front of her lips to shush her. She bit her tongue, holding her breath while Aries pulled her other hand from her grip.

    "Keep my brother''s name out of your mouth, sweetheart," Aries crooned, retrieving her fingers from her lips. "You... whom he had loved sincerely and promised to give you everything... you do not deserve him, nor do you have the right to speak the name of the person you murdered, Cherry."

    Her eyes sharpened as they glinted, extending her arm until her hand was buried in Cherry''s plum locks. Her hand sped a portion of Cherry''s hair and stilled her while she leaned forward.

    Cherry teared up because, in her eyes, Aries looked like a demon who would suck her soul away.

    "Please..." she shook her head mildly as tears continued to roll down her cheek. "This isn''t you, Aime. This isn''t --"

    "Princess Aime..." Aries''s voice dropped while her eyes bore nothing but nonchnce. "... was dead, Cherry. She died the same day thend of Rikhill had fallen. She died again when she watched her brother''s head roll to her feet and she died once more when her sisters were dragged to the gallows."

    "That woman, Cherry, died multiple times while she breathes," she continued, stressing her words to drill this fact into Cherry''s thick skull. "This isn''t me? Of course, Cherry. Aime will never sell her integrity, her beliefs, and her morals."

    The side of her lips curled up. "But you beguiled her kindness, handed her to the hands of a monster, and killed her."

    "I had lost everything, Cherry, and you watched everything unfold from the sidelines," she added with a ridiculing scoff. "What gave you the impression these overused, pitiful acts will even move me? Aren''t you foolish?"

    "Aime... I бк I''m sorry --"

    "Sorry? You''re sorry?" Ariesughed as she let her hair go, pping whileughing loudly as if she just heard the greatest joke in her life. When she recovered, she hid her curled lips with the back of her hand while gazing at Cherry from head to toe.

    "For what, Cherry? For betraying Princess Aime, your friend? Or her brother who was beguiled by this damsel in distress persona? What are you sorry for, Cherry? For selling your ownnd and soil? For conniving with greedy enemies? Or perhaps, were you apologetic for bing a failure despite sacrificing a nation?" Her eyes widened while her pupils constricted, tilting her head to the side. "You didn''t even be a crown princess, Cherry. Was the title countess worth it?"

    "Do you know what is the most insulting of all, Cherry? Everyone shed blood and suffered and yet, you didn''t even be the empress бк not even close." Ariesughed while Cherry lowered her eyes, only for the former to grab her jaw up and forced her to look back at her. "Don''t lower your gaze, Cherry. Look at me. Just like how you never took your eyes off of me while you were watching me get beaten until I am half dead."

    Aries smirked and her lips stretched as tears overflowed in Cherry''s eyes. "That''s right, Cherry. Just look at me." Her eyes drooped until they were partially closed.

    "And watch how it should be done. I''ll show you how I will get everything you dreamed of in this life and crush it right in front of you." Ariesughed as she let her go and giggled evilly. "I hope... Inez won''t get her hands on you before the curtains close. I would love to see you until the end бк although I''m not hopeful."

 Chapter 308 [Bonus Chapter]A Tragic And Pointless Life

    In the end, Aries didn''t get to visit Curtis, even though his room was nearby. She stayed in her room in silence. Cherry couldn''t walk on her own, so she had to ask the knights to escort her out.

    "Mydy," called Gertrude as she was wiping Aries''s fingertips while thetter was dipped inside the tub. "Are you alright?"

    Aries snapped her eyes as she had been silent ever since Cherry was escorted out. Her eyes fell on Gertrude and caught the worry in her eyes.

    "Of course." She smiled weakly at Gertrude, leaning back against the tub and letting her personal maid clean her hands. "I''m simply curious what she would do."

    Aries cocked her head to the side and set her eyes back on Gertrude. "Have I ever told you about her, Gertrude?"

    "Just a little, mydy."

    "Cherry is a daughter of a baron who had a talent inmerce. As you know, thend of Rikhill is a country of trade. Ournd is rich with minerals and many countries wanted to conquer it. Many tried, but no one seeded... until the Maganti sent their hundred thousands of troops." Aries shrugged as she talked about it casually. "We had a chance, Gertrude. We could''ve defended our proud country with the help of our ally."

    "Howe it fell, mydy?" Gertrude blurted out and pursed her lips when Aries nced at her. But thetter simply chuckled before peeling her eyes away from her.

    "Cherry," Aries answered. "You might wonder what can this daughter of a baron do to ruin a country? Well, she used her beauty. She beguiled my brother and my foolish brother told her secrets. He shared everything with her бк his woes, his worries, his secrets, his weaknesses. He opened himself to her like a book and Cherry used all these as her weapons."

    "She took these all out, used what she knew, and sold information to the greedy crown prince," she continued, stressing everything with a much lighter heart than she expected. "The crown prince attacked our economy first. He destroyed our mines and the roads that our allies could use, attacking us from every direction. He knew our weaknesses until he eventually reached the capital, where he held their gs up."

    Her eyes narrowed. "He took us by surprise and I only came to know this when I saw her bowing her head to him." Sheughed bitterly as she recalled how mortified she was at that time.

    "Surprisingly, I didn''t get angry at first. I was so stunned my mind just went nk. No hate, no disgust, no nothing. Just in surprise." Aries took a deep breath and smiled at Gertrude. "Don''t look at me like that. Because when I realized this, it gave me another reason to live, Gertrude. I don''t thank Cherry for why I am alive today, but her betrayal is very encouraging."

    "It will be a shame to die before her." She chuckled as she peeled her eyes away from her. "Cherry... she insulted us by selling us for a meager price. It will be nice if she gets to see how far I can be cruel."

    Gertrude let out a faint exhale as she stared at Aries for a moment. "It would be nice if she sees the person she tried to destroy attain what she cannot."

    "I know, right?" Aries cocked her head at Gertrude. "But Inez isn''t a very patient person and Joaquin let no opportunity slip out of his grip. It''ll be nice if she survives till the end, but honestly? Even if she doesn''t, at least we get to enjoy watching her dance in everyone''s tune but her own."

    "And just like how meager the value she traded the life of my family, my people, and mynd... I will gain nothing from her death," she added and smiled, as this was just something done for the heck of it. Aries would gain nothing if Cherry died, just like she would gain nothing while herdy-in-waiting was alive.

    "She isn''t as irreceable as she thinks she is."<sub> </sub>

    "What a tragic and pointless life she had led," Gertrudemented with a deep exhale, while Aries chuckled heartily like a viin.

    In Gertrude''s eyes, she didn''t think Aries was doing humane things. Honestly, it still scared her and often made her wonder how cruel can this woman be? However, she couldn''t also sympathize with Aries''s enemies.

    For her, this was karma. What goes aroundes around.

    They ruined Aries''snd, took away her family, and defiled and corrupted her soul. They were the reasons for all her sins. She was the product of their atrocities.

    This... was simply a trade.

    A trade Gertrude would never wish to be directly involved in.

    <strong>******</strong>

    Like any other night, Gertrude washed Aries''s body from head to toe and took away the slightest dirt on her. But tonight, she would have to add another activity to their routine, which only happened once in two weeks.

    Aries stood in front of the full-body mirror. Her eyes shifted to Gertrude''s reflection from behind her before she turned around. Gertrude was holding a tray with a bowl of ink and brushes on it.

    Tonight, Aries had to trace the markings across her body as they had faded. Her hair even needed to get dyed before the natural color of her roots would show.

    "Forget about it, Gertrude." Gertrude furrowed her brows and raised her head at Aries. "I don''t need it anymore."

    "But mydy..." she trailed off when Aries shook her head before thetter turned around once more to face herself in the mirror.

    Aries stared at herself and slowly took off her robe, which fell to her feet. That second, Gertrude''s heart gripped because whenever she would see Aries''s und body that was filled with scars, especially those on her back, she could feel what this woman went through. It was something Gertrude would never get used to.

    "There''s no need to hide it anymore, Gertrude," Aries spoke after a minute of silence. "In a war, things can escte quite faster than anyone would expect."

    "You need to quietly leave this ce, Gertrude." Aries breathed out as her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed. "I have a feeling that after tonight, things will only escte at a speed no one can ever catch up to."

 Chapter 309 Took You Quite Some Time

    Meanwhile...

    Cherry was pacing back and forth in her room within the inner pce. She would flinch from time to time every time she would hear the slightest noise, watching the door, afraid someone would barge inside and kill her. This was driving her nuts, thinking this entire ce, the very floor she was standing on was simply the crown princess''s palm.

    "This is not happening," she whispered, biting the tip of her thumb while pacing restlessly. "It didn''t work. She will kill me."

    Deep in her heart, she thought she would move Aries''s heart even in the slightest. Thetter was sympathetic and foolish, a person who would fall for such a cheap trick. However, just like Curtis, Aries truly changed, and she wasn''t the woman Cherry used to know.

    "I''m dead, I''m dead... she''ll kill me." She sped her hair in distress, stopping from pacing. The crown princess''s smile and demonic eyes kept resurfacing in her head, increasing her fear with every passing second.

    "I need to run," she muttered after minutes of whimpering in silence. Cherry looked around her room in panic and nodded. She needed to go, was what she kept telling herself.

    Just like what Aries told her, she didn''t need to do anything to Cherry. Other people like Inez would happily do it for Aries. Knowing how cruel the ninth princess was, Cherry should flee. She wasn''t safe in the imperial pce anymore бк it would be safer if she returned to Carballo, the earldom.

    Her husband was a fool and he would protect her for sure. If the earldom wasn''t enough, she needed to hide somewhere else, with the help of her husband.

    With that thought in mind, Cherry frantically dragged out her luggage and threw her clothes in it with the hangers still with the dresses. She didn''t even think of organizing anything, leaving some behind when it couldn''t fit in anymore.

    After that, she cautiously peeked her head out of the door, looking from left to right to check if there was anyone. To her relief, no one seemed to be around, just like any other night. Nothing was amiss. Cherry carried her luggage with both her hands and cautiously and silently departed the small castle.

    When she reached the back area of the castle, Cherry saw a maid and a stable boy romancing in the dark. Since she didn''t have a carriage or anything of the sort, she unhesitatingly called and startled the servants. Shocked that someone found out about them бк the crown princess''dy-in-waiting at that бк the stable boy and maid thought they would get punished.

    To their surprise, Cherry told them to get her a carriage in secret if they wanted her to keep their rtionship a secret. The maid and stable boy would rather do what they were told than let others know about this affair. So even though it was baffling, they didn''t ask why thedy-in-waiting was nning to leave with that huge luggage and just got her a coachman avable for people like Cherry in the pce.

    Meanwhile, Cherry, although scared, was hopeful the gods were on her side. It didn''t take long when a carriage arrived and carried her luggage over the overhead rack. After the quick ceremony, the carriage started moving away from the pce and no one noticed her departure.

    Yet, her heart still felt restless.

    "It''ll be fine," she mumbled, holding her trembling hands on herp. "I already departed the pce. Nothing will go wrong."

    Cherry had watched how the carriage passed through the gates of the imperial pce and was now on her way to the earldom. She would''ve stayed in their estate in the capital, but s, she doesn''t feel safe in the capital anymore. Thus, she decided to go to the earldom even though this carriage the maid got for her wasn''t afortable carriage to ride all night.

    "It''s alright, Cherry. It''s alright," she chanted, sping her hand together in a praying pose while rocking her body back and forth.

    The carriage slowed down as they entered the forest route to have less bounce and avoid idents, as it was alreadyte in the night. The only light they could rely on was themp hanging in each corner of the carriage as the thick canopies were blocking the moonlight.

    Tonight was oddly silent and calm, hearing the humming of the night with the chill night breeze. As the carriage ambled up the dirt through the woods, Cherry, who was inside, continued to chant under her breath like a witch, telling herself nothing bad would happen.<sub> </sub>

    But s, minutes after they entered the woods, her breath hitched when the carriage halted.

    Her eyes dted as she gazed up, hands on the wall of the carriage.

    "What happened?!" she asked in panic as she heard the neighing of the horse and the coachman calming it down. "What''s going on?!" she yelled as her heart pounded against her chest.

    "It''s alright, mydy," yelled back the coachman. "It''s nothing."

    A sigh of relief slipped past her lips as she patted her chest. However, it was short-lived because, after a few seconds, she heard the coachman let out a brief squeal and then followed by a thud. Her blood instantly ran cold as her entire body froze.

    <strong>What happened outside?</strong>

    Her eyes shook as she gazed at the wall where the coachman was. She heard nothing but silence, and the carriage didn''t move for minutes.

    "Help..." came out a shaking voice, clutching her hand closer to her chest. Her anxiety shot up because she didn''t know what happened outside. Even when she yelled, no one replied, and she was too afraid to open the window to check. No one also attacked her or dragged her out.

    The silence was just too deafening and frightening for her.

    Cherry took a deep breath and wiped her tears, looking around. There was no noise outside, but she was hesitant to check. However, she would only get scared and stuck inside the carriage. So even if she didn''t want to, she had no choice to but take a peek.

    Cherry outstretched her shaking hand towards the curtain and slid it slightly. She peeked and saw no one but the darkness and the trail of trees. She opened the curtain even wider and checked outside.

    Nothing.

    "What..." her brows furrowed and mustered her courage to open the door. Her heart skipped a beat as it creaked open. Swallowing down a mouthful of saliva, Cherry clenched her teeth and hitched outside.

    But as soon as she did, her heart stopped beating for a moment and her breath halted.

    "Took you quite some time. I thought you will stay inside until daylight. Dragging you out would be ugly."

    Cherry''s eyes dted as she twisted her neck to the front of the carriage. That second, her heart sank, seeing multiple figures in ck. Her eyesnded on the person squatting down atop the coachman''s dead body, twisting the dagger that was impaled in the man''s eye.

    Cherry knew this person even with the veil covering the lower half of her face. She knew that voice and those pair of silver eyes.

    Inez.

 Chapter 310 Jealous

    "Took you quite some time. I thought you will stay inside until daylight. Dragging you out would be ugly."

    Inez smirked under the ck veil, seeing Cherry''s pale face. She ced her hand on her knees, standing up from the coachman''s body with her feet on either side of him. Dusting her hands off, she faced the crown princess''sdy-in-waiting.

    "Countess Lloyd, isn''t it a bitte for you to travel alone?" she asked as she pulled down the veil that was covering half of her lower face. "As Her Royal Highness''sdy-in-waiting, you must''ve heard about the recent terrorist attack. It''s not safe."

    "Your Highness..." Cherry staggered back as her lips quivered, her entire body shaking.

    "What''s with that look, Countess Lloyd? I didn''te here to harm you." Inez smiled amicably, but her eyes reeked with the bloodthirst. "I''m simply surveying the area because of the attack. We noticed this carriage and had to stop it, but as we were approaching, we noticed the coachman doing something suspicious."

    She nced back at the corpse behind her. "You would''ve been in great danger if we didn''te. The coachman was apparently part of the Valiente."

    Inez kept her friendly smile as she shifted her focus back to the woman several feet away from her. Cherry, however, simply nced at the coachman and then at Inez. There was no way Inez was telling the truth. The coachman was dead and he could no longer defend himself.

    The dead speak no tale.

    Cherry took another cautious step back and held her breath, eyes at Inez. "Your Highness, I was told to go home. My husband fell ill, and he needs me."

    "Oh? Lord Oscar?" Inez gasped and rocked her head in understanding. "Then, shall we escort you to the whorehouse in the fifth district?"

    "What?"

    "Lord Oscar is there, Countess Lloyd." The ninth princess''s lips stretched from ear to ear until her eyes narrowed. "He''s a regr in this whorehouse and had kept a few mistresses бк youngdies, twice younger than you. Maybe that is why he needs you there since children are still inept at how to take care of him aside from warming his bed."

    "I will escort you there since it will be in my conscience if something happened to you," she added and raised a finger, motioning her men to take Cherry.

    Cherry''s heart shook as she looked back at Inez nkly. She couldn''t even think about her words as she darted her eyes at the approaching men in ck.

    "No..." she whispered and staggered back, nearly tripping, but managed to stay on her ground. "You can''t --"

    Her breath hitched, and before she could even think about it, Cherry jumped and fled. The men who were approaching her stopped as she ran away, looking back at Inez in silence.

    Inez smirked as she stared at Cherry''s back in amusement. "Whoever gets to catch her gets to taste her first." And then snapped her eyes ever so tenderly as she nced at the other men near her.

    "Make this look like a random attack. This is where she would be found." She ordered, and the men bowed their heads.

    "Yes, Your Highness."

    When she peeled her eyes away from them, she set them in the direction where Cherry fled. Some of her men already came after her, but Inez stayed for a moment while the rest started breaking down the carriage.<sub> </sub>

    "Countess Lloyd." Inez licked her lips like a demoness who crawled her way up to the surface. ''I will make sure you will beg me to kill you. It will be a long and fun night... Countess Lloyd.''

    <strong>********</strong>

    <strong>[ Sapphire Pce ]</strong>

    Aries stood on the balcony wearing only her robe. She had been staring at the thick darkness in silence, inhaling the chilly night breeze as winter approached. The tension brewing was slowly seeping through the cracks of the calm surface of the empire.

    This silence... was far noisier than anymotion.

    Ignorant ones couldn''t feel it, but certain people, especially those who were heavily involved in the court matters, couldn''t deny this dread shrouding the empire. Things would change and by now, Ismael had already had enough weapons to fight for what he was fighting for.

    Just a few tweaks and everything would fall in its rightful ce.

    "I always wonder howe you cane in and out in my chambers with no one noticing," Aries spoke softly as soon as she felt a presence behind her, ncing over her shoulder when a hand crawled around her waist.

    "I have my means." Abel bent over and nted a kiss on her shoulder before resting the side of his head over it. "Do you wish for me to get arrested?"

    Aries let out a quiet sigh, holding his arm before she turned around to face him. "No." She crawled her arms over her shoulder as she leaned closer. "I was simply curious whether you are simply skilled or theyck qualification to be called knights."

    "The only qualification a knight need is his life, darling." He simpered. "They die early anyway, so having more talent will be a waste."

    "That is... ridiculous."

    "It is not бк at least, not in thisnd." Abel shrugged nonchntly and pulled her waist closer. "That''s the reality of the people in here, don''t you agree?"

    "Is that your conclusion during your stay in here?" she dawdled; her fingers crawling up from his nape to his hair as his answer was a simple brow raise. "Anyway, you are quite bold to be in here. Aren''t you afraid my husbandes back and finds us out?"

    Abel simpered and batted his eyes coquettishly. "He will be busy checking the arms I sent him." He then lifted her by the waist and sat her down on the railing.

    "I sent him a lot to keep him busy all night." He winked while Aries arched a brow at that devious smirk stered on his face.

    "You are quite generous in giving out weapons to another empire, Your Majesty."

    "I''ll give them more if that means I get to spend another second with you." Aries giggled at his reply as she bent over while he kept his head raised.

    "It''s quite a cheap price for your time, darling. You''re too precious," he dawdled into her mouth while she grinned against his lips. "I''m jealous."

 Chapter 311 In Five Days...

    [Warning: Mature content ahead. Proceed with caution.]

    "I''m jealous."

    Abel closed his eyes ever so slowly while she cupped his jaw to still him. Savoring the ripeness of her lips, his hand crawled under the robe and onto her legs and grinned against her lips upon figuring out she was wearing nothing inside.

    "Did you know I wille tonight?" he asked and broke away from her lips, squeezing her tender thigh lightly. His eyes fell on her slightly exposed corbones, following the deep cut of her robe, exposing the division of her bosom.

    "Or... were you thinking of presenting yourself to your husband like that?" he snapped his eyes up, catching her bit her lower lip to hide her mischief.

    "What if I am?" she queried while massaging his shoulder. "He is my husband. Sharing each other''s body is our marital duty."

    Abel breathed out quietly, studying her yful smirk and the seductive flutter of her eyshes. His hand under her robe and on her thigh crawled up around her waist.

    "I''m already jealous as it is, darling. Are you trying to anger me?" he asked with a smile but Aries simply shrugged.

    "Why would I anger you?" she inquired, letting his hand feel her curves. "But if I, indeed, n on presenting myself bare to my husband, what will you do, Abel?"

    Aries tilted her head as she leaned closer. Sharpness was written across her face as if she was in front of her enemy.

    "Lock me up? Beat me? Or... will you butcher me?" she added out of in curiosity.

    Right now, Aries was aware Joaquin had fallen for her allure. That was why the crown prince let this ''affair'' between her and Inez go. However, it turned her stomach. One thing was because obviously, Joaquin was the murderer of her family and the man who ruined thend of Rikhill.

    But there was another reason her husband''s affection made her sick to her stomach.

    Joaquin''s affection... was nothing but a desire to own her, control her, and monopolize her. A love that restricts, an affection that was binding, a feeling that was suffocating and deadly.

    So Aries was curious. Even though Abel had always imed ownership over her, that was back then. People and their hearts changed. Now that there were hundreds of pages in their life written out there, a character''s change was something she respected.

    Abel pressed his lip into a thin line while studying the curiosity in her eyes. Aries would know if he was lying бк not that he ever did.

    He hummed before his lips parted. "Darling, it is disheartening how vile you perceived me," he mused in a quiet voice, pulling his hand from under the robe only to clip his fingers at the end of the tie of her robe.

    "It''s not in our n that you will allow him to touch what''s mine." He smirked, slowly pulling the tie of her robe, eyes fixed on her. "If he did, then poor you. You''ll be a widow at such a young age."

    "You''ll kill him?"

    "Maybe, maybe not. But definitely, I won''t hurt you or lock you in a room alone." His lips stretched broader when the knot came off and her robe slid open, revealing the middle part of her front. "If you walked bare in the street, whose blood do you think would spill?"

    Abelughed as he used his index, sliding it from her shoulder until her robe fell to her hips. Aries shivered when the breeze blew on her spine but kept her focus on him.

    "You?" he snapped his eyes up at her and shook his head lightly. "No, darling. It''ll be them since they should''ve looked away. It''s not my Aries''s fault, it''s theirs. If she says this empire lives, they live, and if she says raze it to the ground, then everyone would be burned aliveбн and they deserved it."<sub> </sub>

    Aries swallowed while Abel arched a brow and shrugged with an air of nonchnce. His hand squeezed her thigh and spread her legs open, but his eyes held her gaze for a moment.

    "You''re asking the wrong questions to a lost cause, my darling." He chuckled and licked his lips as his eyes fell on her glorious body. He raised a hand and nted his fingertips on the center of her chest.

    "I said this before and I will repeat it once more. I can worship like a god and fight for you like a cult. I only want one thing, darling." Abel took a step forward and pinched her chin up. "Let me fuck you like a whore."

    Aries remained silent, unsmiling, unfazed by the breeze as his piercing gaze was enough to set her body aze.

    "That''s all?" she asked under her breath. "That simple?"

    "That''s all."

    "Just my body?"

    "Your body."

    She huffed quietly before she wrapped her arms around his neck. She kept her eyes on him, tilting her head to the side.

    "Does that mean you will not ask for my hand anymore?" she inquired, and he grinned.

    "Want to get married?"

    Aries simpered and shrugged. "Mhm. Let''s see... in five daysбн I''ll give you an answer."

    "Not tomorrow?" Abel arched a brow as surprise resurfaced in his crimson eyes for a split second.

    "Tomorrow alwayses but never arrives. In five days, Abel, ask me and I shall give you an answer. Make sure I''m in a good mood. Maybe I''ll reconsider."

    Abel smacked his lips and rocked his head. When he set his focus back on her, his eyelids drooped until they were partially closed.

    "You really know how to y with my head, darling." He chuckled with his lips closed and leaned in, tilting his head to the side. "Shall we continue inside?" he inquired into her mouth the second they met.

    She grinned against his lips while she tightened her limbs around his neck. "I like it here," she whispered before she deepened their kiss.

    "That''s what I thought."

    And just like that, Abel sucked her breath, savored every taste of her mouth, circling his tongue around it. He bit her lips, pulling his head back with her lips in between his teeth. His eyes opened slightly, watching how she weakly opened her eyes before he smirked.

    Breaking apart from her lips, Abel licked his lips and showered her with kisses from her shoulder des down to her breast and navel, and then licked her sweet pearl that was aching for him.

 Chapter 312 Just For Tonight

    [ Warning: mature content ahead. Proceed with caution. ]

    Aries grabbed his hair as her toes curled. Her mouth fell open as she shuddered when his tongue glided from her entrance up to her clitoris. Her breathing grew heavy while his tongue ventured into her territory, sucking and licking it slowly and leisurely.

    "Ahбн Iбн I''ll fallбн" she whimpered, gripping his hair even tighter, but he didn''tin about the pain and simply flicked his tongue against her erged nub. She clenched her teeth as she arched her back, opening her mouth when his tongue circled around her clitoris while he inserted his finger inside her. It went in and out while he slurped all the love juice dripping from her.

    It felt heavenly, as her mind couldn''t think of anything else but the sensation traveling to the ends of her nerves. Her muscles would tense up and rxed alternately, moaning and gasping, flinching, and shuddering.

    Abel gave her core a slow kiss before looking up, grinning upon seeing her flustered face. Oh, how she was so lovely when aroused. Her eyes, which were always so clear, gleamed with conflict, shame, and sinful desires.

    "More?" he asked deviously as he licked the love nectar around his finger, eyes up on her.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, watching how he taunt her while licking his finger. "You," she breathed out, feeling her pearl throb for more.

    "I want you," she confessed, and then bit her lower lip. "Make love with me."

    For a moment, Abel froze as his brain went nk.

    "Mhm?" he hummed and tilted his head to the side.

    "Make love with me." She lowered the volume of her voice. "Don''t fuck meбн love me."

    His eyes narrowed, studying the courage flickering across her eyes. Love her? She didn''t need to ask. Abel opened his mouth to give her a silly answer, but his voice didn''te out.

    Just how much of his love can she handle? All? He doubts that. Half? Still too much. A quarter? Perhaps half of the quarter?

    Honestly, Abel didn''t think she could even handle the smallest fraction of his love. The reason he never asked anything for her in return was that if he did, it would be very disappointing if she couldn''t do it. No matter what she says, he couldn''t put his hope in mere words because, at the end of the day, there were still many things she didn''t know about him and he didn''t have the courage to pull her out of the dark.

    He was satisfied with this setup. Them, Aries and Abel, sitting in the dark, holding hands, thinking they were in the same boat. That both of them were blind in this darkness, that he couldn''t see just like her.

    Abel rose to his feet and cupped her jaw. "Love you?" he asked while she held her breath.<sub> </sub>

    "Was that too much to ask?" she returned. "Fuck me on other days. I''ll be your bitch, your servant, your dominant, your foe, your sister, your ally, or anyone you want me to be. But tonightбн I want you to love me."

    "I want to feel loved, to have value, to feel clean without ever thinking I am sinning for wanting it," she added, knowing what was about to happen would kill hundreds бк thousands of people would shed blood and suffer. Someone might be dying because of her right at this second.

    "Can you do that? Love meбн just for tonight. Just love Aries without questions asked or exnation why."

    ''And there goes my sanity,'' he thought.

    He sighed quietly but said nothing as he bent over and imed her lips. How would he love her? Her request was akin to a difficult riddle, since the word extreme was engraved deep into his bones. And his grand gestures were the only thing he knew how to show his feelings without even speaking those magical words, ever.

    Aries closed her eyes as his tongue slipped in between her lips. Warmth filled her heart as she wrapped her arms around his neck to deepen their kiss. His lips were gentle and hungry, they always were, but only now did his kiss truly feltбн something else. She couldn''t describe it with words, but what she was certain was her heart felt full.

    Hisrge palm that was squeezing her lean waist contradicted the cold breeze that was blowing on her back. He then moved his palm, tracing her spine until his fingers were massaging the back of her head.

    "Mhmбн" her moan slipped into his mouth while he unzipped his pants to give his bulge some room without letting go of her lips. As if on instinct, Aries wrapped her legs around his hips. As soon as she clung to him, she felt the tip of his shaft poke her rear.

    "How do I even love you using only a fraction?" he wondered, panting in her mouth, carrying her by the waist. Before she could even answer, he bit her lips once again, walking back inside as he felt that his warmth was not enough to shield her back from the night breeze.

    And before she knew it, her back already hit the mattress, gazing at the man hovering over her. Aries was panting, face flushed, mind barely functioning. All she could do was stare at those crimson eyes over her that had seemed to glow in the dark, looking at her dangerously and sinfully.

    What was his question again? She didn''t hear properly or did it register in her mind. But what she was certain was those eyes sought answers. No, no. He wasn''t seeking answers, but he was waiting for somethingбн something he would like to hear.

    "Abel," she called as she reached her hand to him until she was cupping his cheek. Her lips curled up subtly as she felt his face with her fingertips, narrowing her eyes as her vision blurred for a split second.

    "Love meбн" she caressed his lips with her thumb. "бн just for tonight, then no more."

    His expression was unsmiling, bending over silently, tilting his head until his lips were only an inch from hers. "Then, I love youбн tonight."

 Chapter 313 You

    <strong>[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "Then, I love you... just for tonight."

    Aries closed her eyes to wee his tender lips. As always, they were sweet as the first peek of the new day but just as bitter as thest smile of sunset. He didn''t deepen the kiss. His kiss was shallow, biting her lips from time to time. Yet, his emotion each time his lips brushed against hers spoke a volume of passion, millions of tacit and neglected feelings.

    Their bodies were no stranger to each other. They had kissed more than she could ever count, but tonight he felt unfamiliar. Or maybe it was not Abel, but Aries.

    Perhaps because she was paying attention, she finally noticed the familiarity that oddly felt new to her. Today, she kissed Inez бк she wasn''t the first person who imed her lips. There were many before Inez or before Abel. And she could tell those people... always had a n.

    But Abel... this man didn''t have any. Just kissing her.

    Right now, his entire world бк his universe was her, and all she knew and felt was he was savoring the eternal moment of their kiss.

    She didn''t know how long they''d been kissing бк it could have been until dawn for all she knew бк but when he pulled his head away, Aries was already panting for air. She didn''t even know she was nearly out of breath, intoxicated by his ardent kiss.

    She snapped her eyes at the pair of eyes hovering over her. His lips were ever so slightly apart, eyes on her, hers on him, both breathing heavily and observing each other.

    Aries reached out her hand and felt his face with her fingertips. He was breathtaking, so unreal, like a nightmare in disguise. Her hand caressed the corner of his naturally sharp eyes. His gaze always bore meaning with a touch of menace.

    "You have to tell me," she whispered after a minute of pure silence. "I will not know what is inside your head if you don''t tell me, will I?" бк what was he thinking while staring at her with those empty eyes? It had been a while since she saw that in his eyes, but now that it reappeared, she remembered how empty his eyes used to be in the beginning.

    Abel bent over and tilted his head until his breath was touching her cheek. "You," he whispered, nting a light peck on her temple, but his light touch was enough to send a shiver down to the ends of her nerves.

    "I am thinking about you," he added under his breath as his lips pressed on her jaw. "Just you," he continued, kissing the side of her neck.

    Bitterness filled her eyes at the careful and searing touches of his lips against her skin. Aries clumped his shirt and pulled him down, and the rest of his sentiments were lost in her mouth.

    "Dar --"<sub> </sub>

    Once again, he kissed her gently, but his gentleness wasn''t what she wanted right now. Not when his words don''t match his actions, not when he wasn''t clear with her. She needed extreme бк the extreme love-making, hardcore.

    ''I guess I am not meant for lovemaking...'' she thought. ''Fucking suits us better.'' бк because when their heart was involved, they were vulnerable and pure, therefore it hurt.

    Aries gripped his shirt as she raised her head to deepen their kiss. His brows creased, groaning softly, snaking his arm around her waist, and gathered her against him. She hurriedly unbuttoned his clothes, tossing them out of the bed without breaking the kiss.

    His hand slithered from her arm until his fingers slipped through the gaps of her fingers, sping it and pinning it against the mattress. Her mouth fell open, stretching her neck, arching her back until her bare chest molded with his body like liquid.

    A hiss came out through their parted lips when he pressed his hips down, stretching her wide to his girth, delving deep, getting swallowed whole by her. Aries was panting as he settled over her, his forehead over hers, nose brushing each other.

    "Abel," she moaned his name, only to grit her teeth as his hips moved back slowly and then thrust at the same careful pace. She could feel him every second, going in and out, careful and patient, savoring how she throb around him.

    Her back arched slightly when he went deeper, causing her toes to clutch the sheet, breaking out in sweats more than the times he fucked her senseless. He kept his consistent rhythm, nibbling her neck down to her corbones. He cupped her breast, pinching her nipples, only to hunch in and keep them in between his teeth.

    "Ahбн!" her hand flung over his shoulder and onto his back, digging her nails, losing her mind at the slow thrusting and sensual groping. It felt as though his hand had the urge to touch her everywhere, kissing and biting, leaving unintended marks on her pale skin.

    All the stress and schemes and guilts before she came into this slowly disappeared, reced with pure pleasure. She moaned his name once again, slipping her other hand from his grip to wrap her limbs around his neck and feel his weight. His hand stilled her waist, picking up his pace until only her moans and his grunts, and their skin pping resonated across the entire chambers for minutes.

    At that moment, they wished they couldst forever, or at least, it won''t end soon. But just like everything, they soon reached their peak, muffling each other''s scream with a kiss, and feeling each other throb as love nectar leaked from her.

    His forehead was resting over her as they panted for air, frozen in their position, ignoring the sweats in between their und bodies. She looked up at him, barely catching what sort of expression he was making with his hair brushing her temple, and the shadow shrouding his face.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, lifting her head to nt a soft kiss on his lips. "You didn''t look at me," she pointed out before she retrieved her lips and sported a subtle smile.

    "Nor did you call my name, but that''s fine." She cupped his jaw and brushed his lean cheek with her thumb. He was gazing back at her in silence, so she added, "I understand."

 Chapter 314 Be Kind

    "... I understand."

    Abel opened his mouth, but no voice came out. He kept his silence, pulling out from her, theny on her side. He snapped his eyes at her, acting with an air of nonchnce before spreading his arms to invite her. Aries simply smiled back and rested the side of her head on his muscr chest.

    She ced her palm across his chest and settled on where she could feel his heart. Her brows rose when she figured he had a faint heartbeat. It was calm, unlike how his chest moved in and out... or maybe he just had too many muscles, she thought.

    As they listened to each other''s deep breaths in silence, she couldn''t help but ponder about herplicated rtionship with him.

    Sometimes... Aries wondered why being with Abel hurts? Not that she didn''t want to be with him, or vice versa. It was just that there were times, just like tonight, felt like the castle of trust they built together was simply made of sand. One mild wave and everything would be washed away.

    That was why it hurt. It scared her.

    She had always known she was important to Abel, but asionally... it terrified and confused her. Was she foolish to desire to know what love truly was? Does he love her? Or does he simply <strong>need</strong> her so there was someone who could understand his shenanigans?

    Those questions had been slowly eating her mind while the ghost of her past was slowly corrupting her soul.

    It would be easier if she could discern what love was. But she couldn''t; she never knew how love should be. It was never an easy word to speak of.

    Dexter was right. Her reasoning for why she stuck with Abel was stupid. Abel never saw his future with Aries, and she was sure of that. She never saw that in his eyes. That was why he would treat her as if it was hisst. She was content at first, but now... she didn''t know.

    She wished to know something... his heart or hers, but her tongue would roll back each time she wanted to raise the question.

    "What''s your n?" she asked after minutes of silence, looking up at his side profile while he gazed at the ceiling solemnly.

    "Mhm?"

    "After this trip." She propped her elbow to see his face better. "Things will only escte after tonight or soon, and considering every turn of events, it''s safe to say this ce will turn upside down. You won''t stay in here even after things settled down, will you?"

    Abel studied the deep curiosity in her eyes as if she was trying to extract an answer to a different question. He slowly raised his hand and tucked her hair behind her ear, humming low in his throat.

    "Be kind," he answered after a moment while she arched her brows. "That''s my n."

    "Be kind?"<sub> </sub>

    "And generous."

    Aries furrowed her brows because that was too vague of an answer. She raised her eyes back at him when he raised a question this time.

    "What about you?" he inquired with a coarse voice. "What is your n after achieving your goal?"

    Aries pressed her lips as she hummed a tune, pondering about it. Honestly, she didn''t have any concrete n. Why does she need it? Wasn''t it obvious? She would return to Haimirich with them and be Aries. She lowered her eyes at the thought.

    Could she really be Aries? The Aries the emperor of Haimirich took in? That Aries? She didn''t even know who that woman was now. All she knew right now was that she was this woman filled with anger and vengeance, and there was no room for forgiveness in her heart.

    Was ying Danie Circe for quite some time took away her real identity?

    Aries gazed back at Abel, who was waiting patiently for her answer. "I don''t know, Abel." Her lips stretched into a bitter smile, resting her head over his chest once again.

    "I don''t even know myself anymore or what I want in life because my only life goal is their demise." Her eyes softened with the thought of losing purpose once she achieved her goal. "I sort of feel empty inside, Abel. Sometimes, I feel satisfied when I outsmart them, but not to the extent that it will exhrate me."

    "It gets me every time I think about it, so I always toss the thought at the back of my head. Will I be happy in the end? I will get justice, so that''s the same, right?" she continued in the same soft voice, blinking weakly as her eyelids felt heavy. "But what about after that? Will I still be happy? Can I still live normally? I feel like I am going to start over again without any notion of where my life would go."

    "I can''t even understand my heart or you..." Aries yawned and closed her eyes, mumbling. "What''s the point of dwelling on my future endeavors when I can die tomorrow? Or not wake up after tonight?"

    Silence descended into the room until her deep breaths broke the stifling silence. Abel gazed down at her with eyes bearing no particr emotion. He caressed her cheek gently, studying her face.

    "I figured..." he whispered after minutes of silence. "... how hard it is to start over, not knowing what to do, not having any direction, and gets swept by the current." бк because he also went through that.

    Vengeance, seeding, then nothing. Instead of knowing what to do after avenging himself, he felt lost right after. No one was at fault. It was just human nature.

    "I''ll give you a reason, darling." Abel cradled her in his embrace and buried his face on top of her head, eyes closed. "You do not need to worry, I''ll be kind to you... I promise."

    Because at the end of the day, the reason he was in here was because of Aries. To watch everything unfold and drive herself to her death... and then rise from the dead. That was how she would start over, make peace with her past, and start anew.

    He was here to make sure of that.

 Chapter 315 How Villains Are Made

    <strong>[ Jade Pce ]</strong>

    The crisp sound of wood breaking in the fire resonated in the third prince''s chambers. Sitting on the armchair near the hearth, Ismael was staring at the coin in between his fingers, deep in thought, flipping it from time to time. But he was still aware of his surrounding as he felt the light footstepsing into his chambers.

    "I''m shaking," he whispered after a long silence, noticing how his thumb trembled while holding just a coin. "I wonder why."

    "Brother, you called for me?" Enrique, the fourth prince, sighed quietly. The light from the fire danced on Ismael''s face, but looking at his side profile, Enrique could barely recognize the third prince anymore. It was not like Ismael changed his taste in clothing or the style of his hair.

    It was Ismael''s demeanor, gaze, and tone of voice that made him barely recognizable. Oddly enough, Enrique seemed to be the only one who noticed it, since Ismael would keep acting like before in front of everyone.

    Ismael remained silent while tapping his fingertips against the armrest. His eyes were on the coin in between his thumb and index as if it held secrets of the world.

    "Enrique, what is good and bad?" he asked after minutes of silence, snapping his eyes, setting them at the man standing several feet away from him. "What is moral and inhumane? If I dismembered your son right in front of you and you sought vengeance by killing my son бк just in case I had one бк will you say it is moral and just?"

    "Brother, what are you saying?" Enriqueughed awkwardly at the odd scenario Ismael asked.

    "This had always been in my head." Ismael ignored the awkward countenance of the fourth prince as he gazed sharply at the fire. "What did the son do so wrong to inherit the sin of his father?"

    "That is what we call an eye for an eye," answered Enrique as he shook his head, walking towards the stand to pour himself a ss of wine. "Giving the same pain they inflicted upon you... it might not be just, but at the least, there are two of you who are miserable. That is why, if you want to protect your family, keep your hands to yourself and don''t make an enemy."

    Enrique picked up the ss of wine and pivoted on his heel to face his brother''s vantage point. "Still, this applies to different situations. There''s no right or wrong, it is simply... a matter of conscience. Different people, different reactions. That''s human nature."

    "Human nature..." Ismael rocked his head and chuckled weakly, casting his brother a side-eye when Enrique sat down on the armchair near him. "... and what if they weren''t human?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Nevermind." The third prince shook his head and sighed quietly. Everything Enrique said had a point бк he was smart, so it was expected. "The tension brewing behind the calm surface of the empire will soon shroud the entire empire, Enrique. You must prepare... or take your wife and children to safety. I cannot give you my word that I can protect them. I''m not even sure if I wille out of it alive."

    Ismael''s eyes drooped until his eyes were partially closed. "I''m not even sure if fighting is the proper thing to do."

    "Brother..."<sub> </sub>

    "Whenever I think of the innocent lives who will be affected by this power strife, it disheartens me. Because to begin with, I had always believed winning without shedding blood was possible. Look how many of my people died because of such foolish idealism," Ismael continued to express his honest sentiments as he felt like he would never express this in theing days. "But then again, if I stopped now, more lives will be sacrificed. People are dying or disappearing without a trace."

    "The gambling and opium were only the minor problems this empire was keeping behind its grandeur. Human trade, ves, inhumane experiments... the list is longer than I thought." Enrique''s brows creased at the problem Ismael mentioned. "We had our suspicion before. Back then, we thought these missing reports were only the result of noblemen getting aggressive and quenching their bloody desire to keep their demons at bay."

    "very... is not new anymore, but no one talks about it. After all, even the royalties keep one or two to relieve their stress. Even the crown prince kept a woman he could toy with and no one said a word about it," Ismael added, followed by a weak chuckle. "That is how viins are made, don''t you think?"

    He cocked his head back a little, eyes on the bewilderment on Enrique''s face. "You wrong them, punish them unjustly, and kill them. If you had done all the atrocious things you can think of to a person, make sure you kill them. Because if they didn''t die... they wille back and haunt you, seeking not just your life, but your soul."

    "Brother, I don''t understand what you are talking about," said Enrique as his brows knitted together. Everything Ismael said was strange and random.

    "I''m just saying imagine if all those the crown prince and our royal family maltreated through the yearse together to bring us all down," Ismael exined with a shrug. "Even if you say you didn''t take part in it, our name Imperial alone is enough reason to get hanged by the gates of the imperial pce, isn''t it?"

    "It''s just as you said, Enrique. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. Father isn''t the perfect emperor because if he was, the Guerris in the Valiente wouldn''t even exist. Perhaps it may still exist, even if he was honest, like the man I looked up to since he tolerated this group during his reign."

    "Brother, you speak as though His Majesty is..." Enrique trailed off, as he didn''t want to say it. The emperor''s health was deteriorating, but he was still alive... that was what the fourth prince believed.

    "Hah..." Ismael simplyughed, staring at the fire. "You can me nobody for it. It''s human nature... right?"

    <strong>Knock knock...</strong>

    Enrique simply opened his mouth but was unable to argue when he heard a knock at the door. Ismael didn''t look back, as if he was expecting a visitor at this hour, but Enrique didn''t know about that. So when he looked back to see who was the person who intruded inside without a word, his eyes dted upon seeing the seventh prince standing not far away from their seat.

    "The ninth princess made a move," Roman reported, unfazed by Enrique''s presence. Thetter gasped and hurriedly set his eyes back to Ismael, only to see the third prince smirking, gaze still on the fire.

    "I already warned her, but she only listens to herself," Ismael responded. "Well... at the very least, she won''t get hanged for everyone to see."

    Enrique held his breath as his eyes dted, darting between his brothers. Roman reporting to Ismael alone was shocking, but Inez? Not that Inez was close with them and not that she was a good person, but why her? Just what was Ismael doing all this time? Regardless of the questions in the fourth prince''s head, one thing came clear in his head.

    Ismael was nning something bigger than he had revealed just yet.

 Chapter 316 Prove It

    The death of Countess Cherry Lloyd shook the upper echelon the very next day. A merchant who was traveling as early as dawn found her wrecked carriage deep in the woods and when he checked the inside, he was mortified at the mangled state she was in. She was unrecognizable. If not for the items in her luggage that could point to who was the victim of this atrocious and inhumane attack, it would be another jane doe.

    While some were protesting for justice, the inevitable rose.

    The first thing that everyone was curious about was, where was Countess Lloyd, the crown princess''dy-in-waiting heading in the middle of the night? Cherry couldn''t enlighten everyone since the dead could speak no more. Thus, different conclusions rose in the upper echelon.

    Some believed Countess Lloyd was meeting her secret lover while others think she was traveling under the crown princess'' orders. Obviously, the first rumor sounded spicier and more logical. Even so, whatever the real reason was, noblemen were angry and supported the Earl''s plea.

    Meanwhile, this news spread faster than anyone could catch up to themon people. Therefore, it brought terror to the people, since they all believed the rebels did it. Now, not only the royal court was filled with angry sentiments, but the people would also gather in the za and march in front of the imperial pce, screaming to put an end to these rebel groups.

    Aries stood in front of the window inside the crown princess''s chancery. From here, she could see the massive numbers of angry and frightened people beyond the castle gates. Although she was far enough away to hear what they were shouting and unable to see their expressions, she could feel their emotions.

    ''Surely, Joaquin used her death as much as he can,'' she told herself, a little amused the crown prince was surely someone who would use every situation to his advantage. ''It had been the third day since Cherry''s death, but no word from the royal family was out.''

    Her eyes narrowed as they glinted dangerously. Aries was aware Joaquin was simply riling people up with the wait and it was effective. The number of Protestants had significantly grown over the past three days.

    ''I wonder what will Ismael do?'' she wondered, snapping her eyes ever so slowly upon hearing a faint knock from the door. ''I haven''t seen him in a whileбн he shouldn''t take his eyes off of me.''

    "Your Royal Highness."

    Aries nced over her shoulder as soon as Inez''s voice caressed her ears. But she didn''t face her and kept staring at the faraway gates of the pce.

    "Everyone is just angry, Inez," she expressed in a soothing voice, nting her hand on the transparent window. "Mydy-in-waitingбн it was saddening that she had met an ident. Even though I dislike her, I do not wish for her to die."

    Inez pressed her lips into a tight sh, eyes on the crown princess''s back. She heard the crown princess hadn''t been in great shape since the news of Cherry''s death exploded. She thought Aries would be happy, but it seemed it affected her differently.

    "Was it you, Inez?" Inez''s back stiffened at the cold voice that reached her ears. She watched Aries turn around and face her, showing an unsmiling and aloof countenance.

    "Are you the one who did it, Inez?" repeated Aries while gazing at the ninth princess from head to toe. "Don''t lieбн I hate them the most."

    Inez clenched her teeth and clutched her hand into a tight fist. She lowered her eyes, swallowing down the frustrating tension in her throat.

    "I thought you''ll be happy," she answered.<sub> </sub>

    "Whyбн did you think someone''s death will make me happy, Inez?"

    Inez slowly raised her head, only to see the same unreadable expression on Aries''s face. Thetter surely wasn''t happy. If anything, she just suddenly grew distant and Inez could feel her heart going farther.

    "Cherry is mydy-in-waiting. Even though she had seduced my husband and is ambitious, I didn''t wish for her to die. Her death doesn''t sadden me though, just how it didn''t make me happy. I am not that sort of person." Aries let out a shallow breath, tilting her head a little to the side. "Butбн why does my happiness matter to you, Inez?"

    "Whatбн?"

    "I want to know. That day, you simply shoved me away and left me confused. I kept thinking if what I did was wrong or were you disgusted with me, but then, you will kill mydy-in-waiting and tell me you thought that would make me happy?" Aries chuckled weakly, linking her hand in front of her. "I hate it when something isn''t clear, Inez. I may be satisfied for a moment, but wanting to know if we were on the same page but get no proper answer will devour my sanity."

    "Whyбн does my happiness matter to you?" she repeated once again, eyes on Inez.

    Inez''s lips parted ever so slightly, but no words came out. She could only stare at Aries for minutes while thetter waited for her answer patiently.

    "Becauseбн you''re my queen." Bitterness instantly filled Aries''s eyes, which didn''t go past Inez''s attention.

    "Because I am your queen? So it was because you felt obliged? And my happiness was your duty?"

    "Yes." Inez lowered her eyes to avoid seeing the emotions in the crown princess''s eyes. When a minute had passed in silence, Inez let out a deep exhale and raised her head once again. "I love you, Elle."

    Ariesughed sarcastically. "Now you love me?"

    "I''m sorry about that day. I was simply surprised andбн"

    "You were surprised that is why you shoved me away, left me alone, killed mydy-in-waiting, and thene here dayster?" Aries inquired sarcastically. "I sent you a letter the day Countess Lloyd died, but you didn''t meet me. I needed you the most that day, Inez. Howeverбн you weren''t there with me."

    Aries shook her head as she walked towards the desk ever so slowly. Standing behind the desk, she opened one drawer where a dagger was resting in the middle. She picked it up, lifting her eyes back to where Inez was standing.

    "Are you certain you love me, Inez?" she asked while Inez furrowed her brows at the dagger in the crown princess''s hand. Thetter''s eyes slowly dted when Aries sliced through her palm until blood was dripping on the floor.

    "Then prove it. Drink my blood."

 Chapter 317 [Bonus Chapter] Sick

    "Then prove it. Drink my blood."

    Aries had her hand outstretched, palms open. Blood oozed from the slice on her open palm, but she showed no pain while keeping eye contact with the mortified Inez.

    "Elle!" Inez rushed to her and took out a handkerchief, wrapping it around the crown princess''s hand in a hurry. "Are you out of your mind?! How can you do this to yourself?!"

    The ninth princess couldn''t even think twice as she hissed, ring at Aries. However, the second she saw the pain in thetter''s eyes, Inez was certain Aries was serious and she had been in more distress.

    "Elleбн" she called as her breath hitched while Aries gazed at the hand Inez was putting pressure on.

    "Inezбн have you ever loved somebody you want to chew your way under their skin?" Aries slowly shifted her eyes back to Inez, unsmiling. "That the thought of drinking their blood and having them in your veins just soundsбн right? It may sound sick to others, but sometimes, when your heart is heavily involved, you just think of many insane things to express that intense feeling because no word is enough to express it. Do you think this love you speak of is the same love I sought for?"

    "Come on, Inez. Prove that you love me. Have a drink." Aries smiled subtly, reaching for the handkerchief and carefully pulling it away from between their hands. She nodded encouragingly, signaling her to prove how much Inez loved her.

    Inez looked at that subtle smile on Aries''s face while encouraging her to drink her blood. That smile, although looked lovely and kind, brought this sense of dread down Inez''s spine.

    "You''re sickбн" whispered the ninth princess to Aries, shaking her head mildly.

    "What?" Aries knitted her brows as she frowned slightly. "I''m sick?"

    "No, Elle, I mean бк"

    "You mean I''m crazy?" this time, Aries''s raised her voice that was full of ridicule. "You think I''m sick when all I''m asking is you prove your love to me? You think this is crazy?"

    "No бк"

    Inez was unable to exin her side as Aries aggressively snatched her hand away from her. Thetter''s eyes sharpened and darkened, ring dangerously at the ninth princess.

    "Do I disgust you just because I''m different? Just because my preference is not normal?" Aries rocked her head as she staggered back, brushing her hair with her fingers while the dagger was still in between them. "Hahбн rightбн That''s why you pushed me away that day and looked at me as if I was a monster."

    "Elle."

    Aries raised a hand when Inez took a step forward. She bobbed her head and studied Inez, but she shook her head even when the ninth princess seemed to have a good exnation for this.

    "Inez, you want something crazy?" sheughed and raised her brows. "Do you want to know how crazy I can be?"

    Inez''s eyes dted when Aries yed with the dagger in front of her. Her heart instantly pounded against her chest, seeing the wickedness in the crown princess'' eyes. She might not know what Aries had in mind, but she was certain whatever it was, it was something Inez wouldn''t want.

    "Elle, let''s talk about бк"

    "Ah!"<sub> </sub>

    Inez froze that very second as Aries suddenly stabbed herself. Her blood instantly ran cold, wide-eyed. She watched as Aries gasped for air, hunching in, slowly falling to her knees.

    "Elleбн" she whispered after a moment and rushed to catch the crown princess slumping on the floor. She embraced Aries in panic, heart racing, body trembling. But before she could even think, Aries harrumphed and flung her arms violently.

    "Let go of me! Don''t touch me!" Aries repeated those words at the top of her lungs, making her stab wound squirt. But the crippling affliction wasn''t enough to stop her from yelling and fighting, as if her life depended on it.

    "Elle, stopбн!"

    "Don''t touch me! Let me go!"

    "Stop, you''re bleeding бк"

    <strong>BAM!</strong>

    Inez froze once more when she heard someone barging in the door. Aries continued her yelling, making it look like she was fighting back, while Inez was holding the crown princess''s wrists to stop her from moving. That very second, Inez noticed the smirk that resurfaced on Aries''s lips for a split second.

    A sense of dread instantly crept up Inez''s spine when she gazed at Aries''s eyes. The bitterness and sadness in the crown princess''s eyes disappeared, reced by amusement. That second, Inez realized it was all aбн lie. She fell into her trap.

    "Heheбн" came out a quiet chuckle from Aries as she leaned her face forward. "Did you have fun, Inez?"

    Aries smirked, and her voice shook. "Pleaseбн sisterбн don''t do this to me. I''ll do anything, just don''tбн just stopбн have mercy on me."

    "Your Royal Highness бк" Climaco, the knight in charge of the crown princess'' safety, abruptly halted from the scene he came to. Bloodбн was around those two women on the floor.

    From his perspective, Inez was overpowering the crown princess. Aries'' pleas were enough to strengthen this conclusion.

    "Your Royal Highness бк"

    "What is going on here?" Climaco froze when he heard the crown prince''s voiceing from behind him.

    Joaquin, who would constantly visit his wife, had his brows furrowed at themotion in the entrance. But he remained calm as he entered the crown princess''s chancery. However, when he saw blood and his wife and sister on the floor, with Inez holding Aries down, and the dagger in his wife''s abdomen, all Joaquin saw was red.

    "How dare youбн" Inez shuddered when she heard a sword being drawn from behind her. Her heart sank when Joaquin''s shadow hovered over her.

    "How dare you touch my wifeбн?" Joaquin''s voice was dark and low, and before anyone could even grasp the situation, he swung his sword down and struck Inez across her back. He didn''t even bat an eye as he looked down while Inez arched her back at the striking pain in it.

    Inez gasped for air with her mouth opened, staring at Aries whose eyes didn''t show the slightest remorse. Although Aries didn''t smile or frown, she could feel the coldness in them.

    ''You''re herбн I knew itбн'' but instead of surprise or anger, Inez showed longing and relief in her eyes. ''She''s aliveбн''

 Chapter 318 [Bonus Chapter] Youre With A Child?

    "It''s a good thing the stab is shallow."

    Joaquin let out a sigh and gazed at Aries from the edge of the bed. She was sitting up on the bed with her back against the headboard, eyes on her bandaged hand.

    "You overdid it," he said, waiting for her to raise her eyes to meet his. "I told you to trust me. You didn''t have to бк"

    "You think it''s all for show?" Aries inquired, halting him. "You think I stabbed myself?"

    Joaquin pressed his lips and sighed quietly. "Circe."

    "Joaquin, you know very well Inez is dangerous. You will not warn me about her if you don''t think she is capable of doing this." She looked away. "I wanted us to stop. I told her I cannot continue meeting herбн but she didn''t want to. She killed Cherry just because she was jealous. If she could kill people бк my people бк she will also harm you."

    "I trust you, Joaquin. But just as I''ve said in the past, I cannot afford to entrust my life to other people''s hands." Aries looked back at him with a cold expression. "Even if it''s you. I cannot do that."

    Joaquin sighed once more while scrutinizing the resolve in her eyes. Thisбн was the woman he married. She might wear different faces and had a soft side of her behind closed doors. The crown princess was an overall decisive person.

    "I know and I understand. Forgive me if I upset you." He expressed. "You should rest, for now, Circe. It''s best to do that to recover quickly."

    "Joaquin," she called before he could help her lie down.

    "Hm?"

    "Do you want a child with me?" she asked, causing his brows to furrow. It was an out-of-the-blue question, and heughed slightly when her words registered in his head.

    Heughed weakly. "Of course." Joaquin held her hand, and his other hand cupped her jaw, brushing her cheek with his thumb.

    "I love you. So of course, I want to have a child with you whom we will raise together." He smiled subtly as his eyes softened at the thought of having a child with his wife. "It makes me happy that you''re asking such questions. You used to avoid it in the past."

    Aries lowered her eyes. "You love me?"

    "Yes." Joaquin pinched her chin and guided it up, searching for her eyes. "Don''t you believe me?"

    "You''re my wife, my crown princess, and my empress. There is no greater honor if you also be the mother of my children," he continued and smiled subtly. "Shall we try once you recover?"

    Aries remained silent but kept her eyes fixed on him. "There''s no greater honor than bing the mother of your children, huh?"

    "Yes."<sub> </sub>

    "Alright, Joaquin." She nodded and smiled subtly. "Once I recovered, we shall do it. Have a childбн"

    His eyes softened as warmth filled his chest. Joaquin stretched his arms and wrapped his limbs around her, pulling her in a gentle yet secure embrace.

    "You made me happy, Circe," he expressed sincerely while she rested her chin on his shoulder. "You don''t have any idea how overjoyed I am."

    Aries remained silent as she gazed up. She wasn''t smirking like usual and showing other emotions aside from bitterness. All she did was bring up a discussion about a child and it sincerely made him happy.

    ''I didn''t make you happy,'' she thought. ''You made yourself happy with the beautiful scenarios in your head. But it will be also you who will take that happiness away, not me.''

    When Joaquin pulled her away, he shed her a gentle smile and tucked her in. He stayed for a while and made sure she wasfortable before leaving her with a promise he would return in the evening.

    Ariesid t on her back with her eyes on the ceiling for a long time. She could remember the relief in Inez''s eyes when Joaquin struck her, and how the ninth princess reached her hand while she was dragged to the infirmary, where they would keep her temporarily. Her mind then shifted to Joaquin''s face when she brought up having children with her.

    One thing was for sure. Joaquinбн truly loved Circe. Aries never saw that in his eyes in the past. The pastбн the more she thought about the past, she could not help but relive a particr nightmare.

    <strong>*** [ shback ] ***</strong>

    Just like in the present, Aries was lying t on the bed, eyes on the ceiling. Her eyes were nk and her expression unchanging. When she nced to her right, her eyesnded on a charming gentleman sleeping soundlessly next to her. The light from themp danced on the side of his face, giving her enough light to see his defined jaw, pointy nose, and deep auburn hair.

    Joaquin was charming. Whenever he was asleep beside her and she would stare at him like this, it made her search for that monster who forced himself into her. He just looked different when asleep and when he was awake.

    It was unbelievableбн but she experienced it firsthand. He was a man who was sheltering a monster under that beautiful facade.

    ''I will kill himбн'' Aries clutched the covers over her bare chest, mustering her courage to assassinate him for the umpteenth time. This had been their routine and each time, she never seeded. But she couldn''t stop trying to let him know she loathed him to the bones.

    But just as she raised her hand, her stomach churned, and she felt dizzy. Before she knew it, she sprung up and threw up on the side of the bed, clutching the pillow as she felt sick бк the type of sickness she never felt before. While she was retching, she felt movements on her back.

    "What''s going on there?" came out a coarse and irritated voice. "Hey, why are youбн"

    Joaquin trailed off as he checked, only to see her paleplexion while breaking out in sweats. Aries carefully clutched his arms tightly, gazing at him with shaking eyes. But before she could speak, he narrowed his eyes.

    "You''reбн with a child?" he asked and her heart instantly sank with the sheer thought of it.

 Chapter 319 A Mothers Lullaby

    <strong>[ WARNING: THE FOLLOWING NARRATIVE CONTAINS DISTURBING, TRIGGERING, AND SENSITIVE CONTENT. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK ]</strong>

    "You''re with a child?"

    Aries''s mind went nk with that simple question, but before she could even express her broken heart regarding the thought, she threw up once more. It scared her. The idea never crossed her in the past because she was so busy hating on Joaquin, pressing his nerve, and fighting back.

    Deep in her heart, she wished this sickness was just a mere sickness. Something that could kill her, or at least, something that was contagious enough to kill Joaquin as well. But lifeбн wasn''t as ''kind'' to her. In the end, when Joaquin ''generously'' let the royal physician check on her health and it was confirmed.

    Ariesбн was with a child.

    Hearing the words, "Your Royal Highness, she''s with a childбн" the rest of the physician''s words sounded distant in her ear until all she could hear was the shattering of her world.

    She couldn''t ept it. How could she? A lifeбн that was created from sin? And the father was none other than the murderer of her family? The conqueror of her homnd? The man who took everything from her?

    It was unbelievable and that second, she loathed the life growing within her just as much as she loathed his father. She didn''t want it, she couldn''t.

    While Aries was staring nkly without listening to the physician''s words, Joaquin, who was leisurely sitting on the chair beside the bed, didn''t have any particr emotion. He didn''t look excited or angry about the news; he kept a straight face, but his eyes never left Aries.

    "Your Royal Highnessбн about this бк"

    "Don''t let anyone know about it." Joaquin blinked calmly and gazed at the physician with sharp eyes. "If a word got out, I can''t guarantee your safety."

    The physician lowered his head. "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    With that being said, Joaquin waved lightly, dismissing the physician. When there were no other people in the chambers where he kept his war trophy, Joaquin popped his jaw against his knuckles, eyes still on her. His legs casually rested on the other, watching her meltdown at the thought of conceiving the child of the man she despised.

    It was not like Joaquin liked or disliked the idea of having a bastard, but it couldn''t be helped. If anything, conceiving was to be expected since she''d been with him for months. She shouldn''t be surprised as well.

    ''Should I be nice to her since the physician said with her body condition, it''ll be a sensitive pregnancy,'' he wondered while studying her nk countenance. ''Wellбн that is if she allows me to be. If she''s a little more submissive, she wouldn''t be like thisбн or maybe not.'' бк because deep down, Joaquin liked the challenge, he liked the thrill of subduing her, and seeing her tear up every single time he would pin her down.

    The side of his lips curled up before he assisted himself up, only to sit on the edge of the mattress. He nted his palm on the bed, leaning to the side until his face was in front of her.<sub> </sub>

    "My favorite, are you alright?" he asked, raising his other hand to tuck a portion of her hair behind her ear carefully. "Weren''t you happy that we''re having a child? We''ll be a family now."

    Her eyes shook, moving to meet his, noticing the devious smirk stered on his face. He was taunting her.

    "Isn''t that amazing? Who would have thought, right?" he continued, etching the miserable look on her face in his head. "You and I? Having a child? See? I''m not that bad. I ughtered your family, yes, but I will also give you a new one."

    Joaquin caressed her jaw and smiled subtly. "I will be your only family and I will treat you right. You just have to be nice to me and I will too."

    "Kill me," came out a dead voice as a tear rolled down her cheek. "Kill me, Joaquin."

    His subtle smile stretched into a smirk, but his voice was gentle as he spoke. "Kill you? Why? Are you disgusted that you''re carrying the child of a crook?"

    "Pleaseбн" Aries clutched his sleeve with her trembling hands, eyes still on him. "бн pleaseбн just kill me."

    "How dishearteningбн" he sighed as he pinched her chin. "Should I do that? End your suffering? You and my child?"

    She didn''t respond, but her eyes fixed on him. Ever since her defeat, her life had been helpless. But this was just another hell she had to live in, and she couldn''t live with this. Hence, for the first time since her captive, she begged him to kill her.

    His brows rose as he sported an innocent look. "Aries, my favorite, you know I love you, right?" as soon as those words caressed her ears, her heart clenched because she knew where was this going.

    "I love you so much I am willing to take you as my official mistress," he went on as his fingertips slid down to the side of her neck. "Even if you are stubborn and so heartless as to beg me to kill an innocent life, I am crazy about you."

    As soon as thest syble left his lips, his expression grew icy as he wrapped his fingers around her neck. She grabbed his wrist on instinct, lips slightly apart, to gasp for air.

    His eyes glinted menacingly. "So, howбн can you ask me to kill you? I can''t live without you. That''s how passionate I am about you." Joaquin chuckled wickedly as he tightened his grip around her neck until her face turned red.

    Her grip on his wrist loosened with theck of air, yet she kept her eyes on him. She deeply wished he would kill her, but her heart sank when he smiled in amusement.

    "I wish I can kill youбн" he purred as he loosened his grip, only to grab her jaw with his face a palm length away from her. "бн but that will be too easy for you. It''ll be more fun to watch you wallow in misery as you carry the child of the person who killed everyone dear to you and the man who took everything from you."

 Chapter 320 A Mothers Lullaby II

    <strong>[ WARNING: THE FOLLOWING NARRATIVE CONTAINS DISTURBING, TRIGGERING, AND SENSITIVE CONTENT. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. ]</strong>

    Aries knew Joaquin would never kill her. If her death was what he wanted to begin with, he would''ve killed her along with everyone in thend of Rikhill. But he kept her and made her life a living hell while he enjoyed every second of her misery.

    After the news of her pregnancy was made known to her, Aries was left with zero hope. She went on a hunger strike, but she was forced to eat since Joaquin wanted to keep the child. Not because he loved the life within her, but because he knew birthing his child was thest thing she wanted.

    They kept away all the sharp objects and everything she could use to harm herself. In the end, Aries was locked in an almost empty room with woods sealing the windows. It was just her and the child in her womb. It had been two months since and her tummy was showing.

    Aries sat on the bed in the middle of the night, eyes down. It was another soundless night, yet the silence was echoing in her ear like thunder. She couldn''t sleep since she had been sleeping most of the time бк maybe because of crying or because of her pregnancy.

    "I hate you," she whispered, nting her hand on her protruding tummy. "I hope you die nowбн there''s no hope of living in this world, I''m telling you. Thest thing you want is having me as your mother and having him as your father. You''ll get destroyed even before you bloom."

    Her eyes stung as they filled with tears of hatred, grinding her teeth as her breathing suspended. Until now, she couldn''t ept this life and she hated it even before it could develop inside her womb.

    "Just die," she added under her breath, hoping this life would hear her and know it wasn''t weed. "Just die, alright? Dieбн that''s the only way to save yourself because I will never want you, nor will I love you."

    She loathed it.

    "Justбн dieбн" she continued through her gritted teeth, raising her eyes. She looked around at the dimly lit room where the firece was the only source of light in the room.

    "Rightбн you''re his child. So you will persist even if I go on a hunger strike and even if I pound on my stomach. You''ll hold on to meбн just like how that insufferable monster does." She crawled out of the bed, dragging her feet towards the firece.

    The longer she stayed in this room with this life growing within her, the more desperate she was to get rid of it. There was no other reason. She just wanted to get rid of it because she loathed the child''s father.

    Standing in front of the firece, she stared at the burning woods in silence. In her mind, if she gets that burning wood and struck herself, it''ll be the end of herбн and this child.

    The side of her lips curled up with the thought. She wanted to survive because she had people to avenge; her life was not just hers. However, she couldn''t bear to see this childing into this terrible world and having her as the mother and Joaquin as the father.<sub> </sub>

    She didn''t want any connection with Joaquin other than being the murderer of her family. Having a child with him was thest straw.

    Without a second hesitation about whether her hand would get burned, Aries simply outstretched her hand to grab the burning wood. But the second she did, she hissed and retracted it almost immediately. It was more painful than she thought, but she clenched her teeth tighter and quickly grabbed the burning wood as fast as she could.

    "Ahбн!" she hissed in pain while the burning wood rolled over to the side. Aries blew on her hand to ease the scorching pain and then nced at the burning wood. Seeing that the fire was slowly devouring the carpet, she hurriedly rushed to the bed and grabbed the sheet, which she used to put out the fire before it spread. Only when the fire died and the pungent burnt scent wafted her nose, did she realize she should''ve just let herself get burned alive.

    "Hahaбн!" sheughed maniacally at the thought. "That would be better, I guessбн I''ll kill more people in that case."

    Aries shook her head mildly as she gazed at the firece. Her hand felt like it was on fire and putting pressure on it ironically soothed it a little.

    "Should I just burn this ceбн?" she wondered and nced at her left hand, but changed her mind. She knew herself and people might barge inside before the fire could get to her. So Aries simply slumped next to the burnt wood and looked at it for minutes.

    When she picked it up, dark coal smeared on her hand and it scalded her to the touch. But she held on to it. Her hand already felt it was still on fire, so hurting it more wouldn''t hurt as much. It was a crazy argument, but she held onto it until she got numbed and used to the heat.

    The wood, although it grew thin because of the fire, wasrge enough to strike herself and kill her. She graced the blunt, pointed tip of the wood, and smiled.

    "This is enoughбн" she whispered as her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed. "бн if I use enough strength, it can kill the both of us. I wonder what kind of face he will make if he sees me drowning in my own pool of blood?"

    A giggle escaped her mouth with the thought before she held on to the burnt wood with both her hands. She stretched her arm away, the slightly sharp tip aimed at her stomach. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, mustering her courage to strike herself and end this misery once and for all.

    This was the only time she could do this, and Aries knew that. If someone came in here and saw this mess, they would empty this chamber with only a bed for her.

    "So longбн" she whispered and gritted her teeth, swinging her hand down straight to her tummy. However, before the wood could touch her tummy, Aries stopped, hearing the luby she would use to sing with ric, her little sister.

 Chapter 321 A Mothers Lullaby III

    <strong>[ WARNING: THE FOLLOWING NARRATIVE CONTAINS DISTURBING, TRIGGERING, AND SENSITIVE CONTENT. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. ]</strong>

    "So longбн"

    An inch gap was left in between the blunt end of the wood and Aries''s tummy. Tears pooled behind her eyelids as a soothing luby echoed in her head. The wood trembled under her grip until she lost all her strength and dropped it.

    "Ahбн" she wept, voice cracking, air suspending. "I can''tбн do itбн" came out a confession in between her gasps. If only she could do it, she wouldn''t have asked Joaquin to kill her. The crown prince knew that. He knew her from inside and out.

    Aries might''ve loathed him and the fact that she was carrying his seed. However, deep in her heart, she was also aware this childбн didn''t deserve the hatred. This child did nothing wrong and was innocent. She would desperately whisper her hatred to the life growing within her, hoping this entire pregnancy would not push through.

    But in a way, she simply couldn''t stomach what life had in store for a bastard such as her child. His mother wouldn''t have the means to save him, just like how she failed to save her family, her people, and hernd. And his father was nothing but cruel.

    One of these days, Joaquin would have a crown princess and have children with her. Aries could only imagine the worst for her child. Aries could take every mockery, abuse, and evil deed. But she couldn''t let that happen to her child. It scared her witless.

    "Stillбн I can''t kill youбн" she sobbed her heart out, wrapping her arms around her stomach as she hunched in. "I''m soбн sorryбн"

    Her sniffles soon resonated across the chambers, rocking her body, crying, apologizing for everything she had said, and for ming the innocent life within her. She was sorry for him because his parents were sinners and disgusting human beings.

    She was sorry that this world he would live in was not as beautiful as it should be. That the second he was born, he''ll have to live with the title of a bastard. She was sorry that she wouldn''t have any means to protect him, aside from using her body to shield him. She was sorry that she let all this happen.

    There were myriads бк thousands and thousands of things Aries was sorry for this little life. But either way, she had no choice but to keep it.

    Aries stayed seated in front of the firece until the fire in it died down and the sun peeked through the horizon, slipping through the thin gaps of the woods mounted on the windows. Even when she heard a slight knock on the door and footsteps approaching, she was unfazed.

    "Mydy!" called a young maid who had been serving Aries, then rushed to her side. "Mydy!!"

    Aries blinked weakly and set her eyes at the young maid, whose face was filled with freckles. This maid looked at her with worry and panic. Now that she thought about it, this maid was the only person who treated her with kindness. Even though Aries never said a word to her, this young maid would always tell her story while cleaning the room to liven up the mood.

    "Fetch me some milk," came out a coarse voice and looked away. "I hadn''t had enough nutrients for my poor child."

    "Mydyбн" the young maid teared up before she nodded, assisting Aries with her arms, and sat her down on the armchair to clean her up.<sub> </sub>

    The young maid worked discreetly, hiding the traces of the scene she came to before wiping the ck coal on Aries. After that, she served her some nutritional meals she needed, and unlike the previous month, Aries ate on her own without the crown prince shoving the food down her throat every night he woulde.

    Because of this kindhearted young maid, Aries''s attempt that night remained between the two of them. Just like that, days and weeks had passed and Aries would sit on that same armchair all day long, humming a tune.

    In between her humming, she would usually talk to the bean growing along her tummy about anything she could think of.

    Mostly, Aries would share her stories back when she was in Rikhill, talking about her family бк ric, Davien, her father бк and what it was like back then. She would sometimes lie about the weather and beautiful ''scenery'' she was currently staring at despite looking at the sealed windows.

    Doing this, the hatred in her heart was slowly reced with love once again. She would constantly apologize to her baby for all that she said and thanked him for apanying her all this time. She wasn''t alone anymore.

    This life inside herбн although the father was someone she would never forgive, Aries had grown to love him. She was looking forward to the day she would meet him, embrace him, and cherish him with everything she could. Of course, her fear was still there, but the life in her had given her hope and reason to look in a better light.

    Joaquin''s absence helped Aries cherish this time alone as he didn''t visit her for weeks. Not that she looked for him.

    Until one night, the doors creaked open. Aries couldn''t sleep, sitting on the bed with her back against the headboard, eyes on the armchair she sat in all day.

    "You''re awake?" his voice caressed her ears, but she didn''t react and kept staring at the chair. Joaquin quirked a brow, sauntering towards the bed while removing his cufflinks.

    "Still giving me cold shoulders, huh?" he chuckled mockingly as he sat down on the edge bed, reclining, eyes on her. "Hey."

    She blinked slowly, setting her eyes on him. He tilted his head to the side, blinking almost innocently, returning her limpid gaze.

    "I heard you''ve been behaving." He broke the silence with a low and calm voice. "It makes me wonder what were you thinking?"

    Aries remained silent for a moment before her lips parted. "A rocking chair."

    "A rocking chair?"

    "Mhm." She nodded mildly and gazed at the armchair near the shut window. "I was thinking of a rocking chair."

 Chapter 322 A Mothers Lullaby IV

    <strong>[ WARNING: THE FOLLOWING NARRATIVE CONTAINS DISTURBING, TRIGGERING, AND SENSITIVE CONTENT. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. ]</strong>

    "I was thinking of a rocking chair."

    Joaquin''s brows rose in surprise because he didn''t see that answering. He nced at Aries and noticed the subtle smile on her face. A smile that had never turned up on her face ever since that day Rikhill fell into ruin.

    "You want a rocking chair?" he asked, and she looked back at him, nodding profusely. He chuckled. "Hahбн you want it?"

    Joaquin casuallyid down until his head was resting on herp, something he had always wanted to do with her. This time, Aries didn''t react and just gazed down at him, showing no sign of hatred for him.

    "Will you give it to me?" she asked out of pure curiosity. He didn''t agree or refuse immediately and simply stared at her. He raised his hand, touching her face gently, in disbelief this was the same woman who would be so repelled by just the thought of him. It gave him this inexplicable feeling.

    "Will you tell me why would you want a rocking chair first?" he returned and saw her purse her lips.

    "For the baby," she answered under her breath.

    "I seeбн you can''t kill him, so you''ve decided to love him, huh?" he mumbled, waiting for her to return his gaze. "How about me? When will you decide to love me back?"

    ''You don''t love me and even if you do, it will never happen,'' was the first thing that came into her head, but bit her tongue as she promised her child not to let hatred fill her heart since she didn''t want her child to feel it too. Moreover, angering Joaquin wouldn''t benefit anyone in any way.

    In the end, Aries kept silent to make less mistake. She looked back at him as he stared at her longer as if wondering about something.

    "A rocking chair then." Her eyes gleamed when he broke his silence and he chuckled at what he had seen. "Just behave and I will give you more."

    Aries bit her inner lip and nodded slightly. She didn''t need anything else from him aside from that rocking chair. Well, maybe, if he opened one window so she could stare outside, that would be great. While she tried to conceal the smile on her face, she didn''t notice how his eyes softened seeing that eptance in her eyes.

    Just like Aries, Joaquin didn''t need much from her. He simply wanted her. He wanted Aries to belong to herpletely. Although it was fun seeing her suffer because of her own stubbornness, having such a peaceful time together wasn''t also bad.

    "I heard you''ve been humming," he changed the subject, catching her attention. "I want to hear it."

    "No." She averted her eyes at the quick refusal while he arched a brow.

    "No?"

    "No. It''s not for you," she answered and nced down at him. "It''s for the baby''s ears only."

    "Pretend that I am not here then."

    "I can''t."

    Joaquin blinked as he studied her face. Aries wasn''t looking at him, but she wasn''t looking, not because she seemed disgusted. She was looking away because she didn''t want to get persuaded.<sub> </sub>

    He chuckled weakly. "Fine." He searched for her hand and held them near his jaw. "If the humming is for our child, then there must be something for me, right?"

    Heughed when she cringed, but her hand that was cupping his jaw didn''t feel the same as usual. They didn''t have a touch of disgust, nor did he sense she would strangle him like how he would always feel. Aries changed and he sort of liked this change and submission.

    The only question was, until when?

    "Come on. I''m a jealous man," he teased, squeezing her hand slightly.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips as she thought of something to make him stop. She couldn''t let this man disturb the fragile peace she built for the past month in a blink of an eye. Aries gazed at him for a minute, watching him raise his brows, anticipating whatever silly resolution she coulde up with.

    ''Fine.'' She thought. ''For the sake of Bean.''

    "Up," she whispered while lifting his face up to her. Aries bent over and closed her eyes, suppressing the unpleasant emotion creeping up to her heart as she nted her lips on his.

    His eyes slightly dted as he froze. A secondter, he nced at her to see her shut eyes. This was the first time she shut her eyes because she would usually keep them open as if she always needed to watch everything he would do to her so she wouldn''t forget.

    ''Youбн'' he called in his head as his eyes softened. ''бн belong to me.''

    Joaquin slowly closed his eyes and buried his hand in her hair, stilling it on her back while his elbow propped against the mattress. But before they could go further, Aries drew her head away.

    "I can''t." She clutched her sleeve that he slipped from her shoulder.

    "What?"

    "My body is still recovering," she exined almost nervously. "It might hurtбн the baby." бк knowing what sort of sadist he was.

    Joaquin frowned, but sensing she seemed to be fine with it if not for her health, he didn''t get angry. He sighed and nodded in understanding, copsing on his back once again, his head on herp. As soon as he did, he nced at her protruding tummy under her chemise.

    "Inside hereбн" he poked it mildly and knitted his brows. "бн there''s a life?"

    "It''s strange, isn''t it?" she chuckled while he nced up at her. "My body is changing, and it''s a littleбн strange, but whenever I think about it, it''s strangely amusing."

    Joaquin studied her enthusiasm, and it hit him. This life inside her gave the two of them something they could share, aside from hatred.

    "Reallyбн?" he carefully nted his palm on her tummy and chuckled when she flinched slightly. "I won''t push you. Calm down."

    He slowly felt her tummy before moving his ear to listen to it out of curiosity. Seeing this, Aries bit her inner lip as hard as she could, while keeping eye contact with him. In her mind, she would do anything for this little life within her. Even if it means tolerating this insufferable man. Because at the end of the day, if she wanted her child to live a better life, Joaquin needed to love him even the slightest.

    Little did they know, this seemingly improving rtionship was short-lived as everything turned south in just one pathetic night. The day her hatred for Joaquin would reach a boiling point.

 Chapter 323 A Mothers Lullaby V

    <strong>[ WARNING: THE FOLLOWING NARRATIVE CONTAINS DISTURBING, TRIGGERING, AND SENSITIVE CONTENT. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. ]</strong>

    One month. That was how long it took before Aries realized she was foolish.

    Aries had always known Joaquin didn''t love the life growing within her just as much as she did. She would sacrifice herself, burying the disgust and hatred she harbored from the past, and was willing to tolerate the man she despised the most in this life for the little life she was carrying.

    For himбн or her, Aries gritted her teeth and swallowed down her pride, trying to make Joaquin happy with everything she could. In her heart, she believed if Joaquin cared for her child even just a tiny bit, her child would have a better chance in life.

    Joaquin might protect her child бк Aries doesn''t expect the crown prince to be kind to her. Just to her child, and that was good enough for her.

    "I hate him, Bean," she whispered while sitting on the rocking chair, eyes on the single, open window in her chamber. Joaquin fulfilled his promise to give her a rocking chair two days after she asked for it. Not just that, but he allowed her to have one window open so she could breathe fresh air and see the vast garden outside.

    "But he is still your father. No matter how I dislike the idea, I have to face it," she continued and smiled bitterly, patting her protruding tummy with her fingers mildly. "It''s not your fault, Bean. It really isn''t. He and I had a long history and what happened between us is something I will not put behind us бк I can''t even if I wanted to."

    "I''m not asking you to hate him, Bean. All I''m saying, even if I despise him deep to the bone, I will love you." Aries winced slightly as she felt a contraction. She had been feeling unwell for the past several days бк probably because of Joaquin''s energy.

    "I guess you were a bit tired too, huh?" she chuckled as she nced down at her tummy before raising her eyes on the window again. A deep exhale slipped past her lips. "I will try to make him happy in a different way, Bean. With the current status of ourplicated rtionship, he''ll probably extend his patience."

    The creaking of the rocking chair resonated in the chambers as Aries remained silent. She kept her eyes outside, appreciating the beauty of the world and the little miracles it brought. She wanted to focus on the good things since that was the only thing she could do.

    Her humming soon chorused with the creaking until her hums were all heard, lulling the little bean growing in her womb.

    While Aries was humming a melodious tune, Joaquin, who came early to join her for dinner, stopped by the door at the tune. He carefully opened the door, and he didn''t have to search for her because his eyes immediately fell on the woman in the rocking chair.

    A subtle smile turned up on his lips as his eyes softened. Looking at her right now, Aries may still appear like a bird in a cage, but she looked content. They don''t fight and she just turned into apletely different person.

    ''Who would have thought?'' he wondered as he let out a weak chuckle. ''A child is an answer to make her submit?'' бк yet deep down, Joaquin wasn''t foolish enough to think Aries had truly submitted. He knew her from inside and out, and he was aware she was simply tolerating him.

    Aries stopped humming as she noticed the figure by the door. When she turned her head, her brows rose to see Joaquin leaning against the jamb, arms crossed.<sub> </sub>

    "I thought I will fall asleep," he humored as he retracted his body away from the jamb and marched towards her. "I''m back early."

    Aries lowered her eyes while Joaquin nted a peck on top of her head. She could feel her heart sink deeper, but a smile appeared on her face when she looked up at him.

    For her childбн she didn''t mind falling into the pits of hell just to give him a better life. Suppressing the corruptness in her heart and the mes of rage, she was willing to do so to let the little spark of hope take over and fill the little bean within her.

    They said a mother''s love was the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossibleбн and Aries could testify to that.

    "Wee back." She held his hand that was on her shoulder and smiled.

    <strong>***</strong>

    Weeks had passed peacefullyбн or what it appeared on the surface. Aries never got used to having a normal conversation with Joaquin, but she would indulge with him and service him. But no matter how Aries smiled and tried toe to terms with motherhood, her body couldn''t take the suppressed stress and Joaquin''s nightly demands.

    So, when another month passed since having that rocking chair, Aries''s contractions had grown more frequent. The reason she grew cautious of her movements, and only thought of joyful things. It helped, but sбн one night had changed everything.

    Joaquin came to her chambers in the middle of the night. At this point, his surprise visits did not surprise her anymore and she couldn''t fall asleep too because of the difort and contraction.

    "My favoriteбн" Joaquin chuckled as he plopped down on the edge of the bed while she was sitting up. Aries furrowed her brows upon getting a whiff of alcohol and tobo in his breath.

    "How gorgeous," he praised, cupping her cheek clumsily, blinking wearily. "You make me happy, dear."

    She forced a smile despite feeling unwell and restless. "You should rest," she advised in a soft tone. "You seemed you had a fun night."

    "I did have a fun night... a bit." Joaquin chuckled before slowly pushing her shoulder down whilst crawling on the bed. "But that bitch ruined it. She kept screaming it was annoying, and I didn''t finish. But well, you''re still the best. That''s why you''re my favorite."

    Her jaw tightened as she stared at those pairs of silver hovering over her. She felt nothing at his statements, even though he clearly came from another woman''s embrace. If anything, she was a little annoyed at whoever serviced him and left him unsatisfied.

 Chapter 324 A Mothers Lullaby VI

    <strong>[ WARNING: THE FOLLOWING NARRATIVE CONTAINS DISTURBING, TRIGGERING, AND SENSITIVE CONTENT. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. ]</strong>

    "бн but well, you''re still the best. That''s why you''re my favorite."

    "Wait." Aries winced and clutched his chest. "I don''t feel well."

    Joaquin frowned. "My dearest, we should enjoy it as much as we can while your stomach isn''t big yet."

    "That''s what you kept on saying," she argued under her breath. "Not tonight."

    Joaquin gazed at her in silence, noticing the desperation in her eyes as if she wanted to be heard. However, something within him didn''t sit well with him. The more he looked at her, the more it grew clear to him that everything she had been doing until now was now meant for him. It was for that child.

    All the smiles she would sh him, the time, the look in her eyes whenever she would look at him, those weren''t for him. Deep in his heart, he already knew that. But he still let himself delude there was something between them, aside from that life within her.

    Maybe it was the alcohol and stress that amplified this dismay. Or maybe it was the fact she was making a fool out of him and he was letting her only for her to refuse when he needed her. Either way, he didn''t need to listen to her demands.

    "Why do I need to listen to youбн?" he asked under his breath,pletely appalled. "You belong to me and whatever I want to do with you, I can because you''re mine. Am I correct?"

    "Joaquinбн" her eyes shook as her heart hammered against her ribcage. She knew that look and recognized the monster reflecting her in his eyes. Her lips quivered before she winced at another contraction, clutching his chest tightly.

    "Pleaseбн" came out a muffled plea through her gritted teeth. ''It hurtsбн''

    But her sincere plea brought a different effect on him. His expression instantly grew cold, perceiving this as yet another act to repel him. His jaw tightened as he grabbed her wrist and pinned them down on either side of her. Without a second hesitation, he put his weight over her and bit her shoulder as hard as he could to hurt her.

    "Ah!" Aries let out a squeal, and it only caused another painful contraction. She writhed underneath him, struggling with all her might, wishing for him to stop. But the dominant part of her brain was more concerned about the increasing pain in her stomach.

    "Ahбн!" her toes curled and struggled fiercer, but the pain that felt like a thousand needles were poking every pore of her skin cut all chances to fight back. Joaquin was strong, overpowering her was never a problem for him.

    "Stop!!" she screamed at the top of her lungs after the longest two minutes of her life, and then gasped at the crippling affliction she felt within. Coldness instantly seeped deep into her bones, which traveled to the top of her scalp.

    She stopped struggling as she underwent shock.<sub> </sub>

    Even though Aries didn''t know what was happening anymore as she felt numb from head to toe, her brain pulled her back to all those times she would hum to the life growing inside her. Her memory shed to the first time she ate nutritional food all on her own, the first time she ced her hand on her growing stomach; she remembered how she felt that day. It was strangelyбн magical as if her dark world slowly had colors.

    The memory stayed to Aries humming until the armchair changed into a rocking chair where she would sit all day. For some reason, she felt the mild midday breeze kiss her face and she would send it off with her humming.

    Everything shed in a fraction of a second and she could confidently say ever since the life inside her came into her life, it gave her purpose. It made things a little better and she could say she still had onest family left whom she would protect with her life.

    And as if someone pped in front of her ear, Aries was brought back to this nightmare, eyes nk, staring at the ceiling.

    When Joaquin noticed she stopped struggling, his brows furrowed. He put his weight off of her, gazing at her nk eyes before he noticed his damp knees. Looking down, his eyes dted upon catching blood бк lots of blood бк staining the white sheet which clung to his trousers.

    That second, the crown prince was brought back to his senses as his rage shifted to panic. Yet, Aries didn''t move or speak, lying t, eyes on the ceiling.

    "Ariesбн" he called through his gritted teeth. Remorse and guilt resurfaced in his eyes, but she didn''t see it. She didn''t see the brief sorrow that peeked from his eyes while he realize he let his emotions take over him once again.

    "A physician!" he roared a secondter to catch the attention of the knights outside.

    When Aries screamed, no one came. But when Joaquin did, the knights barged into the chambers only to see blood between the two. They only snapped back from their trance when Joaquin red daggers at them.

    "Summon the royal physician at once!" Joaquin''s voice thundered, bringing panic to the knights as they executed the order as fast as they could.

    But it was already toote.

    The physician warned him from the beginning. Aries''s body wasn''t in the best shape from the consistent beating and the stress she was going through made her pregnancy sensitive. Sexual intercourse was also dangerous. Actually, she would''ve been in danger and the child if she did it once, but she overcame it to make the crown prince happy. It was already a miracle her pregnancysted this long with all those on the table. It only disyed her desire to birth this child.

    Aries''s miscarriage nearly put her to death, but with the help of the best royal physicians, they saved herбн but not the child she wanted to protect. Even when she begged them to save her child before she passed out, they couldn''t.

    Because between Aries and the childбн Joaquin chose her.

 Chapter 325 A Mothers Lullaby VII

    Aries''s pregnancy was a secret. So her miscarriage was not known to many and there was no proper funeral for her child. After she regained consciousness, the first thing she did was look for her child. To her dismay, the news she met was enough to devastate her.

    She cried her heart out, grieving for losing another loved one because of the same person. However, Aries, who somehow felt like this would happen eventually and yet foolishly hope it wouldn''t only grieve for a day. After that, she didn''t speak a word and would consistently sit on the rocking chair day in and out.

    She had been like that for an entire week since the loss of her child. She would wake up and sit there, letting the young maid clean her, and then stay there until she would fall asleep. Never once did Aries wonder how she would wake up on the bed because the moment she would wake up, she would walk towards that rocking chair and repeat her routine.

    On the eighth night after her miscarriage, Joaquin came to her chamber. Aries was still awake unlike usual, staring out in the window, rocking her chair. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, sauntering towards her. He dragged a chair on his way and ced it in front of her.

    "You can''t stay like this," was his opening remarks as soon as he plopped down on the chair in front of her. "It''s not the end of the world. It''s not like you can only get pregnant once. Let''s try again if that will make you feel better."

    Silenceбн

    "Ariesбн" he breathed out as he pinched the bridge of his nose. "You''re not the only one who lost a child. It''s my child too, but I don''t wallow and wait for my death. We need to move on."

    So easy for him to say it. But Aries didn''t respond to him for minutes. Instead, she leaned back and rocked the chair, eyes on the window. It wasn''t like she couldn''t speak anymore or she wasn''t aware of her surroundings. Matter of fact, she was very aware of everything. Even the nights Joaquin would check on her and carry her to bed; she knew everything.

    Aries simply wanted nothing from him because all she felt for this man was hatred бк nothing but pure, immeasurable hatred.

    His jaw clenched at the cold treatment, but this time, he controlled his anger. He wanted to be nice to her a bit because deep in his heart, he didn''t wish for that to happen. After all, he wished that their peaceful rtionship wouldst. Even if it was all a lie, he wanted her to lie for as long as she could.

    But he couldn''t change what had already urred. Therefore, they had to move on. They could try again if she truly wanted a child. He would happily give her what she wanted, and he had already pledged to consider her feelings and prioritize her health if she got pregnant again. All she needed to do was move forward.

    "Dear бк " Joaquin halted as she started humming while rocking the chair.

    That second, his firm expression cracked. That humming he would listen to and would put him in a dream-like fantasy of a family man with his pregnant wife suspended his breathing. In that fleeting month, Joaquin realized how different their situation was in the past before that child came, and in the present.

    Joaquin and Ariesбн had acted like a real couple. It may be a lie, but in that fleeting month, she gave him what he wanted; a home. A woman he coulde home to, he could speak anything about, someone he could dream with while listening to the heartbeat inside her tummy.<sub> </sub>

    <o>,m They were happyбн or at least, what he wanted to believe because he was happy and content.</o>

    And now that she was humming that tune, it only forced Joaquin to face the matters he had denied for the past week. They could no longer go back. That was thest straw. There was no reset and Ariesбн would never give that chance again.

    It was over.

    The rtionship between them had already reverted to how it used to be and that left a bitter taste in his mouth. She was simply waiting for him to raise his fist, or force himself on her, or any evil deed he could think of.

    Joaquin breathed out as he lowered his eyes, arms on his thighs, hands linked in between his legs. He remained silent while Aries continued to hum the same tune.

    That night, he stayed silent and listened to her mncholic hums. His eyes that were staring at the floor softened, filled with remorse and regret, which he knew wouldn''t matter even if she see them. The future he looked forward to where he would hold her hand as their child would happily run around the garden on azy Sunday afternoon shattered like fragile ss.

    When her humming stopped, Joaquin raised his head. She fell asleep.

    "So that''s how you fall asleep every night, huh?" he whispered bitterly, staring at her for minutes. When he stood up and carried her back to bed, Joaquin stared at her with soft eyes. But before he could leave her, her eyes weakly opened and immediately caught his eyes.

    Aries remained silent, staring at those regretful eyes. She raised her hand and caressed the corner of his eye.

    "Even if you treat me right, I will never love you, Joaquin," she confessed under her breath, shaking her head mildly. "Just stay just the way you are, because if you let me see this look in your eyes once moreбн I will do whatever it takes to ruin you from the inside. Don''t ever insult my child once again; you killed him and you have no right to be in pain."

    Her eyes and voice were soft, yet unforgiving. "Just continue the game you startedбн and I will finish it for you."

    <strong>A/N:</strong> If you want to know the luby Aries was <strong>humming</strong>, it was -> Ili Ili Tulog Anay - Lea Salonga. It was a traditional song in the Philippines. I''ve been listening to it while writing the chapters because I was imagining the song ying in the background in certain scenes throughout the [ mother''s luby I-VIII.]

 Chapter 326 A Mothers Lullaby VIII -- End

    <strong>The very next dayбн</strong>

    Joaquin returned to her chamber, and Aries was still rocking herself in the rocking chair. She nced at him when he sat down in front of her, noticing the trolley tray next to him that a maid she had never seen in the past brought with him. The maid said nothing as she bowed and left the two alone.

    "I brought you tea," he said the moment he heard the click of the door as it closed.

    Aries blinked and looked away slowly, setting them back to the window. From her peripheral, she could see Joaquin stand up and work on the tray, pouring a ss of tea in it.

    "I understand what you want," he spoke while filling up the teacup. "You want nothing from me anymore? You''d rather die than submit? Everything that happenedбн you will not give me a chance, right?"

    She didn''t respond because he already knew the answer. Despite the bitterness with a touch of ridicule in his voice, Aries didn''t flinch. What did he expect? The two of them could start a beautiful romance story regardless of how they started?

    ? How she wished things were just as simple as that. If only she was less prideful and doesn''t have the slightest shame, she could probably do just that. It was easier that wayбн but it wasn''t. There was no greater joy for her than see him get ruined slowly but surely.

    She doesn''t even wish him to die. In fact, Aries wanted Joaquin to live a very long, lonely life where he would regret his actions. Or watch everything he worked hard for crumble before his eyes.

    Meanwhile, Joaquin stared at his reflection in the teacup. Onest time, sadness resurfaced in his eyes before it disappeared without a trace. This was better for the two of them. It was better if his reason was solely an obsession where her feelings didn''t matter. Just him.

    ''Forget about having a child with herбн'' he thought, tightening his jaw as ripples appeared on the teacup as his hand trembled. He wanted to forget about the idea he had in his head during her pregnancy. It wasn''t worth it. Aries wouldn''t change the way she looked at him with nonchnce.

    It was better if she hated him to the core. In that case, one way or another, she had this feeling for him. It didn''t matter whether it was hatred or love бк what was the difference? He preferred her hatred than her nonchnce. Even if that means ruining her even more.

    His expression slowly grew firm and when he sighed quietly, he turned on his heel and faced her.

    "Sure. Let''s just hate each other." He took slow steps until he was standing beside her, offering the cup to her. "Drink this."

    Aries gazed at the cup before she slowly nced up at him.

    "It''s not just a normal tea," he exined, keeping eye contact with her. "This one will prevent you from getting pregnant. Drinking just a cup will make you barrenбн permanently."

    "This is myst mercy to you," he added.

    Aries didn''t look away from him before a weak chuckle escaped her mouth. "Mercy? For me?" she chuckled with her lips closed, taking the cup from him.

    "No, Joaquin. This is not for me, but for you, isn''t it?" she smirked, but he kept his stoic countenance. "By doing this, it will shut all sliver of hope you have that I will ever love you."

    She slowly stood from her rocking chair, straightening her back, chin up, eyes on him. "Let me tell you, Joaquin. You can take my body as many times as you want, conquer as manynds as you can, and sit on the throne. But even if I die one of these days, you will never ever own my heart."

    With that being said, Aries guided the teacup to her lips, eyes still on him. She chugged it down without a second hesitation and epted that she would never bear a child. Not that she wished to have one at that time.<sub> </sub>

    As soon as the bitter tea traveled down her throat, Joaquin took out a small cloth from his pocket. Heid it on his palms, opening the folded cloth which revealed a small round candy. When he picked it up, he raised his sharp gaze at her and kept the candy in between his teeth.

    He took one step forward, tilting his head to the side, burying his hand into her hair. He shoved the candy into her mouth as he imed her lips while she kept her eyes open.

    After she drank that tea, their routine returned to how it used to be. It was as if nothing in between ever happened. Maybe it was to erase that fleeting moment that was why Joaquin did everything he could to torment her, while Aries taunted him until they eventually бк almost sessfully бк tucked that memory away so it would never hurt them ever again.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>[ PRESENT TIME ]</strong>

    Aries blinked ever so tenderly, staring at the high ceiling in silence. She never thought she would ever recall the darkest time she was in this hell. Aside from the fall of Rikhill, the death of her child was the only time Joaquin had ever hurt her again. It wasn''t even the starving that came after that or how he ruined her body, passing her to whoever.

    The real hell and the most painful was that child''s death, her child.

    "Beanбн" she whispered as she assisted herself to sit up. Nostalgia filled her eyes. It had been a while since she called her child''s nickname. "I think it''s about time to visit you."

    Aries crawled out of the bed, wincing at the shallow stab wound she inflicted upon herself. It wasn''t painful enough to hinder her movements, though. She slipped into her slippers and marched towards the door. As soon as Aries stood by the door, she nced at Climaco, who was guarding her chamber.

    "Your Royal Highness?" he called in surprise but shut his mouth when she ced her finger in front of her lips.

    "I''ll get some fresh air," she said. "Don''t let anyone know about it, even the crown prince must not know. Unless you want my undivided attention."

    "But Your Royal Highness бк"

    Aries waved as she sauntered off. "Don''t follow me. I can take care of myself."

    Climaco and the other knight looked at each other before gazing back at her departing figure. In the end, they didn''t follow her since it was her order. If something happened, there were a lot of maids around, anyway.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Aries passed by a few servants on the way, but just like how she shut the knights, she warned them the same. She didn''t build her reputation and image for nothing. Hence, Aries was able to walk around and headed to the castle near the Sapphire Pce.

    The castle was already abandoned, but well-maintained. She kept seeing this ce from her room but never once did she have the courage to go in here. She walked through the hallway, listening to her echoing footsteps, taking the stairs in silence until she stood in front of a particr door she was so familiar with.

    Her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, holding the door handle. It was unlocked. A shallow exhale escaped her nostrils before she opened it. The creak echoed like thunder in her ears and her eyes fell to the rocking chair in this almost empty room.

    "I''m back, Bean."

 Chapter 327 [Bonus Chapter]I Just Know Humans

    "I''m back, Bean."

    The room was just like the way it was before. Empty. There was only a bed, a few stands, one antique cab, a rocking chair, and an armchair in front of it. Aries looked around and noticed it was also rather clean, aside from the several bottles and cups scattered on the floor. There were noyers of dust in sight.

    She dragged her feet inside, leaving the door slightly ajar. Aries stopped in front of the empty bottle of wine and cups on the floor.

    "How dare hees in hereбн?" she whispered, kicking the bottle which rolled near the armchair before she stood beside the rocking chair. "How dare he act this is his safe haven when this ce is my hell?"

    Her eyes softened with bitterness as she caressed the rocking chair with her fingertips. In this chair, she had lulled her child day in and out, sharing anything she could with the little life within her, and patiently waited for the day she would meet her child. But Joaquin''s temper wasn''t long enough for her child''s arrival.

    In this very room, its walls had witnessed everything since the day Joaquin locked her inside. How he had tormented her, how she got Bean, how she lost her child and everything that came after that. She hated this room, and she wished it never existed, but she didn''t have the courage to burn it even if she had the means now.

    "How can I burn it when this room is the only ce who knows about you, Bean?" Her jaw tightened as a tension built in her throat, eyes on the rocking chair. "Even if these walls had witnessed more than it should, at least it remembers youбн because your mother cannot."

    Because at one point, Aries had almost forgotten about that child''s life. She wanted to so she could move forward. But this room would forever remember her lubies and the miraculous love that was created amidst the reign of evil. So even if she erased that painful memory, someone or something would forever remember her child.

    And this room was that. The walls that see everything unfold for the worst were the one and only witness her child existed.

    Aries smiled bitterly before she carefully sat down on the rocking chair. She turned her head to the shut window but didn''t have the strength to get up and open it to enjoy some fresh air like she used to do. When she leaned backfortably, she started rocking the chair, eyes on the window.

    A muffled hum came out from her closed lips, which soon resonated and bounced across each corner of the chamber. She hummed the tune she used to hum to her child, revisiting all those times she hummed with her hand on her tummy, caressing it with gentleness and affection despite the fact that the hands that would hold Aries every single night were rough and strong.

    Sometimes, a thought would cross her. That perhaps the reason she lost her child even before he was born was that this world scared him. And it was better if he didn''t see it or be a part of it. Yet a small part of her brain shed with this thought and would argue he wanted to, but Joaquin took that away from him.

    Either way, what was done was done and she couldn''t change what had already happened.

    "I saidбн five days." Her hums gradually subsided as she spoke, noticing a figure by the door. When she turned her head, her eyes instantlynded on Abel. He was leaning against the jamb of the door with his arms folded under his chest. His bright green hair as refreshing as a meadow wasn''t neatly brushed back like usual, but instead, it was let down that reached over his temple and brows like how it was after a bath.<sub> </sub>

    "I was drawn to the sound of your humming." He sported a short smile, peeling his shoulder away from the jamb, and marched towards her. "It was lovely."

    Abel stopped in the middle of the room while Aries gazed at him from head to toe. The side of her lips curled up into a weak smile and then gazed back at the window.

    "It''s a luby I used to sing while ric ys the piano," she exined in a soft voice. "I used to sing it whenever she sneaks into my chamber, hugging her stuffed bunny, asking me if she can sleep with me."

    "ric always has nightmares and she only sleeps peacefully if I lull her to sleep," Aries continued, eyes still on the window. "She often says that song chases her bad dreams and fears away. I used tough it off, but then that song saved me from taking an innocent life that was growing within me in the past. Yet in the end, I can''t save him, my babyбн I still failed him."

    There was a moment of silence in the room before Aries added. "Now that I think about it, you never asked me about this." She slowly snapped her eyes and set them back to him.

    "Knowing my pastбн you were never curious whether I was impregnated or already had a child I''m just not telling you about. Will you tell me the reason? Your Majesty?" she asked in the same gentle voice, staring at him straight in the eye. "Why hadn''t you mentioned anything about it?"

    Abel simply gazed back at her in silence and then advanced in her direction. Stopping beside the rocking chair where she was sitting, he reached for her bandaged hand and carefully unwrapped it.

    "Was filling my curious worth upsetting you?" he returned her gaze while unwrapping her hand slowly.

    "You enjoyed riling up my feelings by mentioning the downfall of Rikhill, calling us foolish.

    "But a mother''s pain is a different case," he argued in a quiet voice, squatting down on her side, eyes up at her. "Their unconditional love is something to admire and notugh at... I believe."

    Ariesughed weakly as she cupped his cheek. "How can you speak a mother''s pain is different with such certainty?"

    "Humans," he held the back of her hand that was on his cheek and leaned it against her palm. "I just know the appalling nature of humans, darling. Therefore, I can speak with certainty."

 Chapter 328 [Bonus Chapter] Remember Him

    "I just know the appalling nature of humans, darling. Therefore, I can speak with certainty."

    ''There he goes again,'' Aries whispered in her head upon hearing Abel''s answer. She caressed his lean cheek with her thumb gently, throwing his answer at the back of her head. Perhaps he was saying he had seen different types of people as the emperor and how people change and what they could do if a child was in the picture.

    Aries didn''t even consider Abel was speaking from his own experience. She remembered he already had an heir, the crown prince who lived in that seemingly haunted mansion in the forbidden ce within Haimirich''s imperial pce grounds.

    "You might find this inquiry ridiculous, but what does it feel Abel?" she asked after a minute of silence. "To be a parent is what I mean."

    "I have no idea."

    "Why don''t you know?"

    "Because I never had one." He smiled, but her frown deepened.

    "I already know, Abel," she confessed and she surprisingly didn''t feel fear about it. "About the crown prince. You don''t have to hide or lie about it."

    "I''m not lying nor I am hiding it," he returned while keeping his eyes on her. "My father is me, my grandfather is me, my ancestor is me, and my son is me. His sonsбн and the son of his son is also me, darling. It''s a tiring life cycle."

    "Rightбн" Ariesughed weakly. "You''re not the person who lies, but definitely, someone who jest a lot." бк although he doesn''t sound like he was lying, Aries perceived his ims as a joke. Who wouldn''t?

    Abel narrowed his eyes slightly and smirk. "So? What do you n on doing?" he inquired, changing the subject smoothly.

    "Hmmбн the n is to burn down this room." Aries smiled bitterly as she set her eyes back to the window. "ns are the easiest part. The execution isn''t."

    "And why is that?"

    "Because this room is the only one who remembers him," she answered softly. "He was a secret. His mother can''t even bear to remember him because she is selfish and cannot bear severing the thin thread of sanity she was holding on to. All she could wish was for this room to remember himбн and remember that there was a time I once became a mother even though he has yet developed when she held his cold and little body the first time."

    "I''mplicated, aren''t I?" Ariesughed and set her eyes down where he was squatting down beside the rocking chair. "I want this room to cease to exist, but I cannot do it myself or order someone to do it just because of thatбн regardless of the shameful and painful days this room had witnessed at the same time."

    "I''ll remember him."

    "Hmm?"

    "Tell me about him and you," he rified while he stood up until he was towering over her. Abel held her hand that still had a fresh wound across her palm, nting a kiss on it, eyes on her. "I''ll remember you twoбн forever."<sub> </sub>

    Her eyes softened as her heart melted, smiling subtly at him. Abel bent over and in one swift move, he was carrying her in his arms. Her brows rose, clutching his shoulder on instinct.

    He gazed down with a yful smirk. "I don''t like that chair." He tipped his head towards the armchair just three steps in front of the rocking chair. "This one is better."

    Without a moment''s notice, Abel plopped his butt down on the rocking chair while Aries was on hisp. He shed her a bright smile as he started rocking the chair mildly, giving her a knowing look.

    "My ears are open," he cued. "I''m interested to hear about this taleбн although I cannot guarantee it will rece my favorite fable about the whiny boy and the potato."

    Aries chuckled at his humor, smacking her lips before putting her weight on him. She rested the side of her head against his chest, stretching her legs over the armrest, rubbing her thumb and index on the button of his suit.

    For a moment, the creaking sound while he rocked the chair filled the room before her soft voice came out. She didn''t include all the bad times she had experienced in this room. Aries focused on those hauntingly beautiful days she cherished with the life growing in her womb.

    It was as if that first year she was held captive, only that fleeting month truly mattered. And only her child''s death deeply hurt her. Not that she wasn''t hurt before, but that was the only time Joaquin truly devastated her emotionally after executing her family andnd.

    She felt like a total failure and foolish to even consider Joaquin would love her child. Joaquin was incapable of love. What that man loved was the idea of Aries; he was obsessed with her and mistook it for love. If he loved her, hurting her would hurt him twice because Aries''s initial attitude to her unborn child still haunted her up to this day. But Joaquin never hesitated to raise his fist, vite her, and ruin her to submission.

    "All those times I was in this ce and sit on this chairбн" Aries blinked weakly as her eyelids felt heavy. She was still injured and talking too much exhausted her. The stress wasn''t helping as well.

    "бн he thinks it was because I couldn''t move forward and wants to trigger his conscience. I wasn''t," she continued in an even quiet voice. "I sit on this chair and rock it because the sound of it keeps me from falling apart. It keeps the whisperings of the wallsбн my demons over my shoulders at bay."

    "It''s not always about him." Aries snapped her weary eyes when Abel held up her injured hand. Only then did she notice she was gripping her hand so tight her wound reopened from the pressure.

    "Don''t waste your blood on an underdeveloped human being. I mean the crown prince." Her gaze followed her hand as he guided it to his lips, watching him lick the blood while keeping his menacing eyes on her.

    "What?" he asked.

    "That''s bloodбн" she whispered, recalling the look in Inez''s eyes when Aries asked her to drink her blood to prove her love.

    "It is blood," he agreed. "But I told youбн I want you in my veins. I would have sucked you dry if necessary, but that will kill you."

    A faint chuckle slipped past her lips, watching him lick her palm without the vestige of disgust. If anything, he seemed to enjoy it which was quite odd because this should make her feel unsettled. It didn''t. In fact, she was moved and could feel his sincerity in wanting her as a whole and not just a part of her.

 Chapter 329 Words Better Than I Love You

    Aries watched Abel lick her palm clean and then take out a clean handkerchief to wrap it around her hand. She bit her lower lip to suppress herughter.

    "Do you think it will not get infected by licking it?" she humored as soon as he finished tying a knot on the back of her hand.

    Abel arched a brow and grinned. "Why would it? I am a devil with powers of an angel."

    "The only angelic thing about you is your faceбн" she argued and studied his face. "I take it back. It''s not angelic."

    "It is not?" he gasped. "All this time, I believed I am just as adorable as a cherub."

    "Pfft бк!"

    "Darling, my skin is just as smooth as a child''s bottom. My buttocks are just as smooth I believe."

    "Is it?" she giggled and moved her face closer to him. "Shall we take a look?"

    "Mercy, please." Abel covered his chest and looked at her as if he was an innocent prey undeserving to be preyed upon. "I had always known my allure is a curse for gaining such unwanted attention. So please handle me with care. I''m quite fragile."

    Aries chuckled weakly while she wrapped her arms around his neck. Keeping that subtle smile, her eyes scrutinized his face as if she was etching his face deep in her head. Her eyes softened the longer she stared at him as he raised his chin and brows.

    Coming into this very room, her heart felt like sinking at the weight of the memories she perfectly tried to erase. But with hispany, she couldugh and humor him, as if she wasn''t inside the same room she cried and screamed at until she coughed up blood.

    "Thank you, Abel," she whispered, ying with the tip of his green hair behind his head. "Even when I don''t call for you, you alwayse every time I need you the most. Thank you for listening and hearing my heart. You make me joyful and thankful for trying because if I stopped, I wouldn''t be able to meet you."

    Abel gazed back at her and brushed her jaw with his thumb lightly. "Why are you thanking me? Shouldn''t it be the other way around? If you had stopped, I wouldn''t be able to meet you and see this world in a different light. Your sentiments and I sounded the same, but they weren''t."

    "Will it kill you if you stop twisting my words?" she sighed quietly but kept her smile. "But never mind that. You''re wee."

    Aries giggled while he chuckled with lips closed. Aries survived because she wanted to бк she had to. This might be something to admire or fear about her, but definitely, it was not something one should be thankful for. Yet, he wanted to thank her for surviving? How sillyбн but at the same time, it brought this indescribable joy to her heart.

    "Now, I''m intrigued," she continued after a moment. "What sort of light you''re seeing now? Will you tell me that I brought colors into your grey life?"

    "Who told you my life was grey?" He humored and tucked a portion of her hair behind her ear. "It was pitch ck, darling. Imagine a night without a moon and starsбн"

    Abel paused and searched for her eyes. "The darkness wasn''t the scariest part, darling. It was getting used to it. Do you understand where I''m going?"

    Aries bit her lip before an awkward voice came out. "You''re saying I''m your moon?"

    "No." She frowned at his quick response while he chuckled at her reaction. "You were the lone candle lit from across the world."

    "A candle meбн? How will you see a single candle that far?"

    Abel smiled warmly and batted his eyes ever so tenderly. "It was dark бк pitch ck. And in a ce such as that, that single candle me is already fascinatingly noticeable no matter how far it was."

    She might not understand his sentiments, but Abel wasn''t trying to be mysterious or poetic. He meant what he said. His world before her was nothing but pitch ck бк darker than the void. Her light might not be as mean as the zing sun or as soothing as the gentle moon.

    But in his world, her faint me was enough for him to see and hope. Her me might not be enough to bring light to his entire world, but it was enough to show him the path.

    He might not see far ahead than where her light could reach, but he knew they would reach their destination with just that eventually. And that was what mattered: the present where they stand now and see at least a meter or two ahead. Regarding the futureбн he wanted to leave that for the future to worry about.

    They live, love, and together today, and that was all that mattered to him.<sub> </sub>

    "Did my answer satisfy your intrigued?" he asked after several seconds of silence. "Or did it upset you?"

    The side of her lips curled up into a subtle smile. "It did satisfy my curiosity and barely upset me." She shrugged as she thought about the imagery in her head.

    "No wonder you always find me wherever I go," she added and fought her yawn. "It''s quite reassuring."

    He chuckled and gently pulled her head down to his chest. "You should rest, darling."

    "Will you carry me back to my room?"

    "Mhm."

    "Aren''t you afraid someone will see us?"

    "I have my means." Aries chuckled at his obvious response, blinking weakly.

    Normally, she would question him how he could go in and out of the strict Sapphire pce unnoticed. But she didn''t want to question that now. If anything, she felt like she could trust him and believe his words without the slightest worry.

    "You should teach me this trick," she mumbled with a faint yawn.

    "Wellбн" Abel rocked the chair so she could sleep. "Marry me and I will."

    Her smile stretched broader, lowering her eyes. "Sure."

    "Mhm?" he arched a brow while the rocking slowed down.

    "I said sure," she whispered. "Let''s get married."

    For a moment, he didn''t move or speak and only a secondter did his lips stretched from ear to ear.

    "I guess Conan''s vacation will be over," he humored, rocking the chair slowly once again. "He will have a wedding to prepare."

    Aries chuckled, feeling his arm snake around her. She blinked weakly and felt her eyes grow heavy.

    "Will you not tell me something else?" she requested before the darkness pull her in a tight embrace. Abel remained silent and let the creaking sound of the rocking chair sing in their ears for a moment.

    "Darling, if you are waiting for those magical three words, I don''t think I will ever say them," he confessed under his breath, cocking his head back, cradling her in his embrace. "But what I can say isбн the beating of our hearts might not be in sync, but my heart will continuously beat your name. And our footsteps might not go along, but I will always walk the same path with you."

    Her smile rxed as she murmured. "Very well. I guess those three magical words aren''t as magical as I thought they were," she humored under her breath, fighting off the sleep she had been fighting.

    "Then since you can''t say it, I''ll just say... I''ll choose you," she added.

    "Every day?" he continued.

    She nodded mildly. "Every day."

    "Likewise, darling." He rested his chin on top of her head, smiling in satisfaction. "Yesterday, today, and tomorrow, and the days after that. I will keep choosing you."

 Chapter 330 Raze It To The Ground

    Ever since the beginning, Abel never sought love from her. All he kept saying was ''choose me,'' not ''love me''. Choose him. Just him. And hearing those words from her was good enough for him. Actually, it was way better than those words: I love you.

    Perhaps it was because he never heard those three words ''I love you'' from her that he couldn''tpare. But what he was certain of was that his happiness and contentment were enough to put his heart at rest.

    "Every dayбн" he whispered, rocking in the chair, cradling her in his embrace. His eyes fell on the window, staring at the vast green expanse.

    "So this is what you''ve been staring at all day longбн?" he muttered with a faint exhale. "From this room, sitting on this rocking chair, waiting until night falls where he woulde and drag you to a nightmare?"

    Abel didn''t get angry when she was telling him the story of her life in this room. She focused on the good things and remembered her child with love in her eyes. So, how could he get angry or at least, show that he was miffed? But now that she was fast asleep in his embrace and he could imagine what she had felt that time, it felt like a stake went straight to his chest.

    It hurts.

    He looked around at the almost empty room. There was nothing in there aside from this rocking chair they were sitting on, the armchair in front of them, the bottles of wine and cups on the floor, the few stands, and then the bed. The room was too spacious because of theck of furniture.

    Abel narrowed his keen eyes, noticing some scratches on the floor near the bed and more scratches on the bed frame. The tiny gaps on the floor revealed dried blood that seeped into them. As he noticed all these little details, his mind could not help but create these scenes in his head of how there were such things in this ce.

    From his seat, he could see Aries crawling with blood all over her, only to get dragged by the hair which left those scratches on the floor. When he blinked, more and more images came to his head: different days and nights, different scenes, and different states she was in.

    Sometimes, he would see an illusion of her curled like a ball on the floor, sometimes, sitting just in front of the hearth, thenying motionless on the bed. There were Aries whose face was bruised. Sometimes she appeared to have more injuries, other times they were only scars only to gain another batch of injuries.

    Aries was all over this room бк this cage. And she had lived a cycle of hell. Yet, she couldn''t bear to destroy this cage because it remembered her secret. Her sonбн or daughter. Even though the sheer thought of this room make her sick to the stomach, she still came because this was the only ce she could talk about that child.

    His jaw fastened and his expression was hard. When he blinked once again, all the Aries in the room disappeared. He gazed down; the only one who was left was the woman sleeping soundlessly in his embrace.

    A quiet sigh slipped past his lips. "You called it Bean because you hadn''t thought of a name, huh?" he muttered, remembering her story as a mother and how she fought for her child with everything she could.<sub> </sub>

    "You were amazing, darling," he crooned, casually caressing her arms. "I''m certain your child let you go because he doesn''t want you to live a miserable life for him." бк this might be an excuse to make her feel better because what happened wasn''t an ident. However, the child held onto her even when she tried to hurt it.

    Either way, he wasn''t the person to talk about it. Abel was no God and he could never know. But he strongly believed there was a reason for everything.

    "I''ll remember her," he said under his breath, still rocking the chair leisurely. "I''ll remember that woman who endured everything to protect her childбн and I will remember that child she loved with all her heart. Bean and Ariesбн I will never forget them even after death."

    The rocking chair slowly came to a halt and Abel slipped his hand inside his suit. When he took out his hand, a match and a cigar were within his grasp. Keeping the cigar in between his teeth, he lit up the match and guided the me to the end of the cigar.

    Abel shook his hand until the me died, tossing the stick match on the floor. He dragged deeply and puffed the smoke which ascended, filling the room with the pungent scent of sulfur from the match and wood. Aries moved slightly as her brows furrowed at the strong scent, but Abel dragged and puffed the thick smoke once more.

    He then kept the cigar in between his teeth, carrying her in his arms when he stood up. His eyes fell on the bottle of wine near the armchair. Seeing it was half-empty, he advanced towards it. He stepped on the bottleneck and it flipped up, hooking it on the back of his foot, only to kick it in the rocking chair''s direction.

    The bottle instantly shattered at the foot of the rocking chair. The wine flooded underneath it.

    "Morro," Abel called, and that second, Morro appeared outside the windowsill like a frog while bncing himself from falling. It was safe to say Morro forgot he was still in his human form and not a bird, and squatting outside the windowsill wasn''t enough for a grown man like him.

    But Abel kept his eyes on the wine traveling under the rocking chair. "This room must cease to exist," ordered Abel, blowing the cigar straight into the rocking chair and it fell on the mmable alcohol, sparking an instant small fire that crawled from the foot of the chair.

    "This roomбн" he turned on his heel and sauntered off. "бн had no more bargaining chip to hurt her. Raze it to the ground."

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

 Chapter 331 Thank You Very Much.

    "Your Highness! Your Royal Highness!"

    Aries groaned and opened her eyes weakly at the shaking of her body. The moment she opened her eyes, Gertrude''s face was hovering over her. Her brows creased together, noticing the panic stered on her personal maid''s face.

    "Gertrude?"

    "Your Highness, we must evacuate at once," said Gertrude in panic. "I will call the knights to carry you."

    Aries''s furrowed brows creased even more as she propped her elbows against the mattress, while Gertrude sauntered off in a hurry. She tilted her head to the side, looking around her chambers in confusion.

    ''Rightбн'' she thought, recalling falling asleep in Abel''s arms. She didn''t know what happened then, but he seemed he snuck in and brought her here. Until now, it amazed her how Abel could sneak around unnoticed under everyone''s noses. But he could''ve asked Gertrude for help, so she didn''t dwell on it.

    "But why is Gertrudeбн" Aries trailed off as her eyesnded on the window. She narrowed her eyes. There seemed to have an alfresco celebration with the golden light outside. Only a secondter did her heart thud against her ribcage upon realizing this sort of light wouldn''t be something from a banquet.

    And Aries was correct.

    When Gertrude returned several secondster, she brought a knight with her. Since Aries was injured, Climaco had to carry her so they could evacuate the Sapphire Pce. As soon as they went out, Aries got to see where that light came from.

    A fire.

    Knights and servants joined hands to put out the fire that broke out in the minor castle just right next to Sapphire Pce. Everyone was doing their best, running in the open space, carrying barrels of water, and doing the best they could so the fire won''t spread. The Sapphire Pce was the closest to the inner pce, so if it spread, the imperial pce would be a disaster.

    As more and more people came to help, Aries tapped Climaco''s shoulder.

    "Put me down," she ordered, eyes on a particr window of the castle.

    "But Your Royal Highness бк" Climaco bit his tongue when Aries nced at him coldly. "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Climaco carefully put her down, standing in the middle of the vastndscape near the open hallway connecting the Sapphire Pce and that small castle. Aries stood straight, eyes on the castle that was now on fire.

    ''Abelбн'' she whispered in her heart, eyes on the window where she was kept for months. Looking at the window from the outside brought this mixed emotion to her heart.

    CLANG!<sub> </sub>

    The gasp from the servants and knights resonated when the windows exploded, but Aries was unfazed. When she blinked, another window shattered and fire breathed out from it. That was that window she was looking at.

    Her jaw tightened, keeping her eyes glued on that window, unable to discern which dominant emotion to feel. The tension in her throat continued to build up, watching how that fire devour everything.

    But that room will always be there, she thought. That castle, although small, was a fortified structure. The fire could only burn everything, but the room would always be there. It wasn''t like she was wishing for anything to happen or expecting anything at all. She already appreciated Abel for trying, but so long as that room existedбн

    <strong>BOOOM!</strong>

    "Kyaaah!!"

    Aries flinched and before she knew it, Climaco held her by the waist and carried her away as fast as he could upon the first explosion, causing the castle to shake. Along with the series of explosions, screams, and gasps, people yelling, and knights'' armor nging filled the air.

    Her eyes remained on the castle while Climaco evacuated her to safety. She couldn''t blink or take her eyes off the castle as a series of loud explosions shed before her eyes, bringing light into the night. This was far worse than the fire in the eighth prince''s quarters months ago.

    This fire and the explosionбн the person behind it definitely wanted it to raze it to the ground.

    When Aries was already in the distance while still being carried by Climaco, her heart stopped beating for a moment. She held her breath, slightly deafened by another thunderous explosion, before the castle trembled, taking everyone by surprise as the foundation of the top floor connecting the roof fell.

    For a moment, silence descended on everyone as they stared at the roof, which fell and smashed down the top floor,pletely erasing the top floor from the structure, leaving three floors in the four-storey castle. It took everyone a moment to snap back to the situation, retreating as rubbles started to fall from the castle.

    It was a disaster. An attack that bore a deep grudge. Something that everyone could attest to whoever was behind it nned to raze this castle to the ground. Or at least, that floor, but no one thought about that since there were more minor explosions inside before it stopped fueling the fire.

    ''Beanбн'' Aries''s eyes softened, bouncing in Climaco''s arms, eyes over his shoulder and onto that burning castle. ''Abelбн''

    She bit her lower lip to stop herself from crying, but tears filled her eyes and stained her cheek. The floor where she was kept, tortured, forced to do things she didn''t want to, the room that held her secretsбн was now gone. That window she used to sit all day while staring outside disappeared from the structure, pulverized, along with the entire room and everything that was in it.

    ''Tell me about him. I''ll remember you twoбн forever.''

    Abel''s voice earlier today suddenly rang in her head, making her cover her lips to muffle her cry, eyes still on that burning castle. She didn''t have to endure the pain of that room''s existence because nowбн there was another person who remembered her child and his mother''s lovely luby.

    ''Abelбн'' she whispered in her heart as she kept her eyes on the fire, relieved as if a crippling weight was lifted off her chest. ''Thank youбн very much.''

 Chapter 332 As Simple As Home

    Meanwhile, in the Emperor''s Pce, Abel sat on the balcony''s railing and watched how the castle create a giant bonfire in the middle of the inner pce. The side of his lips curled up subtly as his eyes softened.

    "You''re wee, darling." He chuckled weakly before ncing over his shoulder upon hearing iing loud footsteps from the room to the balcony.

    One secondter, the door of the balcony flew open, revealing the angry Conan, who was dragging Morro by the back of his cor while thetter was sitting, letting his bottom sweep the floor.

    "Your Majesty! What do you mean vacation is over?!" Conan questioned in irritation. "Just when I met ady who is into me бк"

    "Did you kill her?" Morro inquired even before Conan couldplete his sentence, pursing his lips when thetter red daggers at him.

    Conan huffed, setting his eyes back on Abel''s back. "Your Majesty! This is unfair! Lady Aries isn''t done yet бк I mean, why are you stepping in now of all time?! She''s almost there, but you suddenly ordered this bird to create a problem now everything is in shambles!"

    "But it will extend your vacation, will it not?" asked Morro out of curiosity, only to receive a re from Conan.

    "It will! If not for the fact I was told to work now! How unfair is that?!"

    "Oh, dear Conan. I don''t want to ruin your vacation." Abel chuckled while keeping his eyes on the burning castle that appeared to be a tiny structure from his vantage point. "It''s also my vacation since I didn''t need to listen to your nagging and Isaiah''s watchful eyes. Not to mention, the Marquess'' assassinations attempts."

    Conan scrunched his nose up because the feeling was mutual. Ever since they stepped foot in this empire, they stayed away from each other as much as they could. Although Isaiah would apany Abel from time to time, they were mostly busy with their own business. Morro was probably the only one who spent the most time with Abel in thisnd because His Majesty''s people cherished a moment that was Abel-free.

    "Your Majesty, stop talking as if you don''t want this as much as I бк"

    "I''m getting married."

    Conan bit his tongue, wide-eyed. "Huh?"

    "His Majesty proposed to Lady Aries, and she finally said yes," Morro exined as he leaned against Conan''s feet. "Therefore, the church bells ringing is just around the corner." He then raised a hand as if to volunteer himself.

    "Your Majesty, I volunteer myself as the dove to be released during the ceremony."

    Conan''s face crumpled as pulled his feet away, causing Morro to copse on his back. "I''ll shoot you down if I see a raven flying on such an auspicious asion."

    Morro frowned and ducked his head down. Yet Conan clicked his tongue in irritation and then shifted his attention to Abel.

    "Your Majesty! Is it true?! You''re getting married?!" he asked with a moodpletely different as if he just heard this news and now he was shocked.

    "Your reaction is dyed."

    "Shut up!" Conan hissed at Morro, and thetter lowered his head once again. "I can''t focus because of you!"

    "Two weddings, Conan," Abel spoke, eyes ahead before he slowly raised his head to the night sky. "I''ll marry her in thisnd andбн"<sub> </sub>

    "In Haimirich?" Conan gasped as his eyes glinted. "It''ll be the wedding of the century! The first emperor who gets married and during my time as his aide. Heheбн that Duke Deadmore can never."

    "Not in Haimirich." Conan''s grin faded at Abel''s response. "I won''t marry her in Haimirich."

    Both Conan and Morro gazed at Abel''s back with furrowed brows. Did Abel just say he wouldn''t marry Aries in Haimirich? Would he marry her twice in this Maganti Empire?

    "Lady Aries is surely blessed with marriage. Three weddings in one year, she''s setting up a record," Morromented, only to press his lips into a thin line at Conan''s re.

    Abel remained silent with a subtle smile on his face. "How niceбн" he whispered, imagining Aries wearing the most beautiful white dress walking down the aisle while he wait for her at the altar.

    "A wedding grand enough for her to remember it first when she hears the word, Maganti," he continued. "A memory that is stronger enough than her experience in here."

    "That is the n," Abel added, blinking ever so tenderly.

    Conan pressed his lips and pondered about the wedding Abel preferred. In other words, the wedding should be memorable enough that Aries would forget all the bad memories she had in this ce. Although it was impossible to take away the pain in Aries''s heart, having one good and strong memory would make things a little better for her.

    "Oh!" Conan pounded the bottom of his fist against his palm when an idea crossed his head. The corner of his lips stretched from ear to ear.

    "I have an idea!" he announced, and Morro perked up.

    "Tell me, tell me!" Morro urged, only to get kicked in the leg by Conan.

    "If I were you, go to Duke Deadwitchmore and ask him to turn you back to what you truly are before I strangle you!"

    "You are so mean, Sir Conan."

    "I am mean to all the people I don''t like!"

    "But you said you like meбн"

    "Yes, I like to kill you!"

    While Conan pressed his knuckles against Morro''s temple and ground it, Abel spoke without care if Morro''s head would get smashed by his legal adviser. It was not worthy of his concern or attention.

    "The second weddingбн" he trailed off as he lifted his gaze, spreading his palm open to feel the drops of watering from the sky. His lips curled up subtly while his eyes softened, watching the water pattered on his palms, and ignoring how it slowly damped his knees and shoes.

    "On our second weddingбн" he smiled and smacked his lips mildly. "бн make it as simple as home."

 Chapter 333 A Question Of Loyalty

    It poured heavily for the next three days, which reduced potential damages. Since the fire spread so fast, some parts of the Sapphire Pce were destroyed, but they reported no major idents or deaths since the castle was abandoned.

    To calm everyone down, the crown prince told the mass it was purely an ident.

    The fire in the eighth prince''s quarters, although got buried with more rumors, resurfaced. Joaquin couldn''t afford people to think the security and power of the royal family had gone downhill by using the Valiente Group once again. Therefore, he covered up the story by saying the castle had stored a few crates of unused gunpowders, which exined the explosion.

    Many believed this exnation, while others didn''t. Even so, the manhunt and protest to put an end to the Valiente Group had grown fiercer. Anyone needed to me someone when they were scared. And the resistance group had taken the me after Joaquin pointed his fingers at them even before the recent incident.

    "Mydy, are you alright?" Gertrude tilted her head to the side, eyes on Aries who was sitting on the futon in her chambers, legs up and knees bent near her buttocks. She was standing just a few steps from Aries, reporting what she had heard so far from the maids and knights in the inner pce where Aries relocated temporarily until the Sapphire Pce was considered safe.

    "Have you heard anything about Inez?" she asked after a minute of silence, raising her eyes at Gertrude. Thetter shook her head and sighed.

    "Apparently, no one seemed to be talking about the ninth princess. Even the servants in Lazuli Pce were tight lips."

    Aries rocked her head mildly. Her brow arched as she nced at Gertrude once again.

    "What?" she asked.

    "Your Royal Highness, this humble servant simply wants to make sure you were alright," Gertrude awkwardly voiced out, making Aries chuckle.

    "Was it about that night of the incident?" Aries shook her head.

    That night, even when she wanted to stop crying, she couldn''t. Gertrude and Curtis had to stay with her all night until Aries had fallen asleep. Many believed it was because the explosions traumatized Aries since she was around the area. Only Curtis, who was still acting mute and ignorant, somehow guessed the reason for her tears.

    So Aries could understand this hidden worry gleaming behind Gertrude''s eyes. A soft chuckle escaped her mouth as she shook her head.

    "I am alright now, Gertrude. Never been better," she reassured with an encouraging nod. "I was simply surprised that night, but it''s been three days. I had gathered myself together since I can''t continue sulking. How was my n going to continue if I didn''t pick myself up?"

    "Mydy..."

    "I appreciate your concern, Gertrude. But you do not have to worry about me. My will is one of my strongest points." Aries humored while raising her brows yfully.

    "Yes, mydy. I''m d that you are feeling better."

    Aries smiled. "Anyway, how''s Curtis?"

    "He is staying right beside your room, Your Highness. He can now stand longer, although he seemed to have picked up the habit of reading." бк more like staring at the book, but Gertrude didn''t want to say that to Aries.<sub> </sub>

    Aries simply stared at Gertrude and sighed. Until now, Gertrude didn''t know that Curtis had actually recovered, albeit not fully.

    "I will visit himter." She waved, and Gertrude bowed.

    "By the way, Gertrude, summon the captain knight in charge of the crown princess''s safety on your way out," Aries added when Gertrude turned on her heel to leave the crown princess'' room.

    Gertrude looked back and tilted her head down. "I will, Your Royal Highness."

    As soon as the click of the door caressed Aries''s ears, she blinked and her eyes sharpened. She stayed in herzy position, reclining on her side, arm over the armrest, feet bent on the futon.

    "Your Royal Highness, this is the captain of the second squadron, Climaco," announced the man outside the door to which Aries responded with a calm, e in."

    Aries watched the man d in his uniform enter the room wearing a stoic expression. Climaco carefully closed the door behind him, marching in, stopping three steps from the coffee table in front of the crown princess. He ced his fist across his chest as he bowed before holding his hand behind him.

    Unlike when Climaco was just a knight with no position, this man''s demeanor had changed a little. He carried himself with more dignity and carried more pride in him befitting for his position. It was amusing how one can change with no one noticing unless they didn''t see that person for quite some time or just like in Aries''s case; she didn''t pay attention to this person since Carlos'' banishment.

    "How are you faring, Captain?" Aries broke the ice with her soothing voice.

    "Thanks to Her Royal Highness, I had been well."

    "Fantastic." Aries rocked her head mildly before jerking her chin to the armchair on her right. Climaco swallowed down a mouthful of saliva and lowered his head, trudging towards the armchair, and sat down on it.

    Aries smirked, noticing the sweat forming on his nape and under his cor. "I will not eat you. Calm down." She humored, chuckling when he snuck a look at her, only to look down.

    "Have you heard anything about the ninth princess?" she asked without beating around the bush.

    "I heard she was kept in the dungeon prison in the inner pce," reported Climaco to the crown princess, since he knew she would be interested in this. "But the security is tight, and I had to be discreet since the knights in charge of the prison in the inner pce were receiving direct orders from the crown prince."

    "In other words, you can''t sneak me in, huh?" Aries arched a brow while Climaco lowered his eyes. "Don''t worry, Captain. I summoned you today, not because I want you to sneak me into the dungeon."

    Climaco heaved a quiet sigh of relief, but then heard her andughed.

    "I summoned you because I have a question for you," she continued, waiting for him to raise his eyes to her. Her smirk stretched when she caught his furrowed brows.

    "Between the crown prince and I, whose orders will you follow?"

 Chapter 334 A Knights Pledge

    "Between the crown prince and I, whose orders will you follow?"

    The lines on Climaco''s forehead deepened, staring straight into the crown princess''s eyes. His breathing grew slower, aware of what sort of question this was.

    It was a test of loyalty; a decision he must live for the rest of his life.

    Between the crown princess and the crown prince... whose orders weigh heavier?

    The answer was obvious. Climaco was originally a young knight, hoping to climb the ranks and impose thew of this great empire. He had served the crown prince and fought for his honor бк even though he was once those young recruits who were mortified at the crown prince''s inhumane nature.

    But no matter how he worked hard and stomached everything he had seen to survive this hellish nightmare dressed up as a daydream, his life had been stagnant. It didn''t matter if he was a righteous knight or the evilest of them all. Because at the end of the day, there were all pawns for the crown prince. Pawns Joaquin could dispose of any time or just someone he could use as a punching bag to quench his anger.

    Climaco had seen his colleagues die right in front of him for no damn reason. They didn''t even die fighting for the country, but died a pathetic death and not being able to fight back. Therefore, although the answer was obvious, his voice was stuck in his throat and his tongue rolled back at his attempts to give her a safe answer.

    He gazed at her solemnly, watching her tilt her head and bat her eyes ever so lovely. The crown princess might not be kind and she could be very cruel. She would y dirty when necessary and had proven herself deserving of her position.

    The crown princess''s difference from the crown prince was that she has regard for her people''s lives and not just for the public eye. She might be just as evil or much more wicked than the crown prince, but she gave others options бк cruel ones, though. In other words, the crown princess was by far the cruelest he had seen because she didn''t have an uncontroble temper problem, just like the crown prince.

    If she was cruel, that means her cruelty came from her heart. But if she took people in, she would fight for them and if her people died, she would surely avenge them. Climaco had served Aries all these months; he had seen more than he should''ve, and unconsciously admired her fierceness like she was a military man.

    Climaco breathed out from his lips and sprung up on his seat. Without a word, he went down on one knee and ced his fist across his chest.

    "I, Climaco, the Captain of the second squadron, pledge his loyalty to the crown princess. I take this oath to protect Your Royal Highness with all my life, take your orders and words as absolute, and put your life before mine," he pledged with an unbending resolution whilst bowing. "Being your knight is an absolute honor."

    Aries smirked, watching Climaco swear a knight''s vow to her. Her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, pushing her body away from the armrest and sitting upright. She rested her leg over the other, bending over, propping her elbow on her thigh while resting her chin on her palm.

    "Raise your head," she ordered, which he abided. She then extended her arm until the back of her hand was in front of him, fingers flicked elegantly.

    Climaco breathed out as he stood up and advanced in her direction, bending over to sp her hand. "My life is yours, Your Royal Highness," he expressed and guided the back of her hand to his lips, keeping his other hand behind him.<sub> </sub>

    He didn''t immediately straighten his back when he let her hand go. But he kept his bent posture while she cupped his jaw and examined his face up close. He didn''t move in the slightest.

    "You are wise and yet, no one had seen your potential," she whispered, blinking slowly while holding his gaze. "What if I told you to kill the crown prince, Captain? Will you do that for me?"

    He held his breath for a moment and then lowered his eyes. "If that is what Your Royal Highness wants."

    "How obedient." She chuckled and patted his cheek lightly. "I won''t give you such a suicide mission, of course."

    Aries leaned back while Climaco bent down to his one knee, a gesture to respect her since he couldn''t keep standing while she was sitting and talking to him. Looking down on her was an utter disrespect.

    "My husband''s death is not something I wish to happen," she continued, propping her knuckles against her jaw. "At least, not now. I had many ns which I want him to enjoy with me."

    He remained silent, listening to her carefully, eyes on her. The smirk on her face was the greatest clue she was nning something else бк something that was even worse than an assassination attempt on the crown prince.

    Her eyes glinted. "Captain, are you married?" she asked out of nowhere, making him flinch.

    "N бк no, Your Royal Highness."

    ? "Do you have a family?"

    "My parents died years ago. So I was left raising my two little brothers," he exined, breaking out in sweats at her inquiry about his personal life. "The one is ten and the other one is seven."

    "Too young, I see." Aries rocked her head while studying him. "Is that the reason you became a knight?"

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness. I wanted to give them a better life and..." he cleared his throat and swallowed down the tension in his throat. "... and give them an education."

    Aries chuckled. "Education? As far as I remember, men in Maganti look down on education, since all matters to them are whether or not they can kill." She shook her head, knowing some noblemen had hired schrs to read the documents for them. It wasn''t an unusual practice, since men here would rather hone their swordsmanship than learn to read and write.

 Chapter 335 [Bonus Chapter]A Knights Honor

    "Education? As far as I remember, men in Maganti look down on education, since all matters to them are whether or not they can kill."

    "Funny enough, the members of the royal family were required to learn everything," Aries continued. "I''m notughing about this ambition. I had always believed knowledge is power."

    Climaco said nothing further as he lowered his head. His little brothers wanted to be a knight just like him, but knowing what was happening in this ce, he knew his brothers needed to have a different dream. Especially, once the crown prince ascended the throne, things would just be worst. He didn''t want his little brothers, who looked up to the knights and considered them heroes, to get disappointed with the harsh reality.

    The royal knights were nothing but cowards. They only imposed thew on certain individuals and turned a blind eye to the inhumane methods of the royalty. Bing a knight wasn''t an honor, and that was a harrowing reality for Climaco and all those young, naive men had discoveredte.

    It was better if his brothers could choose other careers by knowing how to read and write than bing mindless dogs of the royals. That was his sacrifice, and that alone was his honor бк not the badge or the royalty''s recognition. He just needed to live long enough by siding with a better master.

    "Who would have thought, right?" she mused, studying his demeanor. "That someone like you has quite an admirable reason why you stuck around."

    Aries let out a quiet sigh as she couldn''t me Climaco and everyone who had turned a blind eye to the twisted games of the royalties. They all had a reason to survive, and it wasn''t just as simple as it made them feel safe when the royalties had their pet to toy with. This only showed how this rotten system divided the people but also unified them because of fear.

    "Your little brothersбн where are they?" she asked, making him raise his head at her.

    Hisplexion turned pale at her interest in his family. With quivering lips, he gave out their location, wide-eyed. Myriads of questions hovered over his head, wondering Aries''s reason for this sudden interest. And his thoughts just grew more and more negative.

    Was this her way of having him by the neck? To know his family as an indirect threat? Climaco could just lie to her, but deep in his heart, lying to her would guarantee his death. Worse. It would cost his brother''s life as well.

    Aries chuckled seeing the dread dominate his face. "If you think I will hurt them, I am quite offended by how vile you perceived me."

    "I бк how dare I harbor such an insolent thought?" he stuttered and looked down.

    "This is thest time you will lie to me," she warned, while he snuck a look at her. To his surprise, a subtle smile was on her face instead of a condescending one. "I understand you are worried that I had shown such interest in your personal life."

    Aries drew a breath and pushed herself up. Turning on her heel, she sauntered around the divan while her fingertips caressed it.

    "Matter of fact, I was simply asking to get to know my dearest knight. In that case, I can tell myself this man here had a family to go home to." Aries propped her arms over the backrest of the settee and smiled at him. "Because what I was nning might cost you your life, Captain."

    "I am willing to die for you, Your Royal Highness," he blurted out, making herugh heartily.

    "Oh, no..." she shook her head mildly. "Don''t die for me, Captain. That is not what I want from you."

    "Your Highness?" his brows rose, studying the misced peace in her eyes.

    "I had always wanted to die," she confessed, and he frowned, but she shrugged. "I''ve been dead inside, anyway, but I don''t n to die... at least, not right now. Not until I finished what they had started."<sub> </sub>

    Aries paused as she drew a breath, seeing the confusion and worry in his eyes. He shouldn''t look at her like that.

    "Do you know what I want from you?" she asked, ignoring the look in his eyes and focusing on their primary subject. "I want you to... take your little brothers as far away as possible from the capital."

    "Pardon?"

    She smiled. "You might''ve sensed it too, Captain. The brewing tension between the royal family and the gueris in Valiente. You''ve been a knight for years, so you must''ve been aware of the standoff rtionship between the third prince and the crown prince. After what happened to the eighth prince, I''m certain the third prince had been doing everything he can to drag my husband down."

    "Your Royal Highness... you don''t mean to say... the third prince might''ve been conniving with the rebels?"

    "Who knows?" she shrugged, maintaining the smile on her face. "I don''t meddle with his affairs; I can, but I don''t want to. But what I am certain of is it is time to put our metals on for this ce... the capital and the neighboring towns will soon flood with red. Take your brothers as far away as possible and return to me at once."

    "Your Royal Highness..."

    "Take Gertrude with you." She smiled subtly. "I don''t want her to get caught in the crossfire."

    "Your Royal Highness, what about you? If this is true, then you must --" Climaco halted when she shook her head sideways.

    "I am your master." Aries straightened her back, hands on the backrest of the divan. "As your master, you must know I don''t ask for my people to be my shield. As your master, I am responsible for your life and thus, protect my people."

    Climaco gulped, hearing it loudly in his ears. Staring at her, his heart thudded as he held his breath at her cold and unapologetic gaze. Yet, this woman... was the only person who truly stunned him and showed him what kind of person a knight like him had been dreaming of serving.

    A master with values, integrity, and someone worthy of spilling his blood for.

    "s, that doesn''t mean I do not have orders for you." She smiled while he remained silent, but he was listening to every word that woulde out of her mouth. Aries smirked wickedly and cast him a knowing look. When her lips parted, his eyes dted even more at the orders she gave him.

    "Can you do it?" she asked with a bright smile. It took him a minute to register the order she gave him, blinking to gather his thoughts, and when he raised his head at her, he nodded.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness. I will not disappoint," he swore with his fist across his chest.

    "Good." She rocked her head before signaling him to stand. "Now, do what you must do."

    Climaco bowed once again after he stood up. "I will return to your side immediately, Your Royal Highness."

    "Come back when you are prepared to fight for the future of your little brothers and not for me, Captain."

 Chapter 336 [Bonus Chapter] The First Fall Of Snow

    When Climaco left Aries''s chambers, she idled in the room before heading to the room next to her, Curtis''s room. She knocked on the door lightly, peeking her head in. Her lips curled up as her eyes fell on the man sitting by the divan near the window.

    "I''ming in," she announced and intruded in, closing the door behind her. She pursed her lips into a thin line, seeing that Curtis was ignoring her.

    ''He''s always the snob,'' she thought, holding her hand behind her as she tiptoed her way towards him. She bent over, checking his side profile cautiously. Her brows rose as it seemed Curtis was simply deep in thought and wasn''t purposely ignoring her.

    ''Mhm...'' she pressed her lips into a tight sh before the corner of her lips stretched from ear to ear. With mischief flickering across her clear eyes, Aries jumped on the divan and her head instantlynded on hisp. She giggled when he flinched, watching him gaze down at her with widened eyes and furrowed brows.

    "How dare you ignore me?" she teased mischievously, moving her head to find herfortable spot on hisp. "This is what you get for not sharing seats."

    "Aime." He sighed quietly. "You''re not a child anymore."

    "So?" she arched a brow and raised her chin. "I''m the crown princess. You don''t tell me what to do."

    Curtis sighed once more and shook his head, studying the yful grin on her face. His eyes scanned her face, flicking her forehead a secondter.

    "Ah!" she rubbed her forehead and clicked her tongue, but she didn''t move or removed her head from hisp. "Did you just flick my forehead?"

    "I did. Like this --"

    "Don''t you dare!" she hissed, seeing Curtis would demonstrate how he did it. "Goodness... why are you always so violent?"

    He chuckled weakly as he leaned back. Curtis gazed at the window once more and smile subtly.

    "Aime," he called while Aries was rubbing her forehead. "Do you remember the time we used to y on the hill behind the royal pce?"

    Aries paused as she moved her gaze at him. For a moment, she didn''t react before her expression softened.

    "Mhm," she hummed a tune, smiling subtly. "I remember Davien pushed me down the slope and I rolled down like a ball. I thought I was going to die, but well, he was punished by Father."

    "He was so scared that time."

    "He should be." She chuckled. "But well, Davien had been my ve since. The injuries were worth it since he would do whatever I want like riding on his back."

    The two of them chuckled before silence fell almost immediately. Her smile remained, but her eyes bore longing as she hadn''t talked about her beloved brother with anyone until now. She really missed him. No amount of words could describe her longing.

    "Aime," Curtis called after minutes of silence.

    "Hmm?"

    He slowly peeled his eyes away from the window and gazed down at her. He smiled subtly, stroking her hair before resting his hand on it, brushing her forehead with his thumb.

    "Should we go home, Aime?" he asked, making her brows raise. "To our Rikhill. To our family. Should we go home?"

    Aries stared into his eyes and pressed her lips into a thin line. "I''m getting married," she answered under her breath.

    "Abel asked for my hand, Curtis." She smiled as she snapped her eyes, thinking about Abel''s habitual proposals. "And I said yes. I don''t see any reason I shouldn''t marry the man of my dreams. He is everything, Curtis."

    Curtis remained silent, keeping his eyes on her while she talk about Abel. She looked happy and at peace while thinking about this man she was talking about. He bit his tongue at the thoughts that crossed his head, stopping himself from telling her to forget about him.

    "Abel..." she crooned, blinking and setting her attention back to Curtis. "I''m in love with him, Curtis. Very much." But then her smile grew bitter as she chuckled.<sub> </sub>

    "But I also want to go home. I missed Davien, ric, Father... I miss everyone." Her lower lip quivered as tears swam in her eyes, rolling down her temple. "I had lost half of my heart when Rikhill fell into ruin and the other half... when I lost Bean. I''m barely a shell, Curtis."

    She kept her eyes on the ceiling, gulping down the tension in her throat. "I''m barely alive," she confessed, trying her best so her voice won''t crack.

    "How can I say I''m in love when I don''t even know how long this love willst?" she continued. "Once everything is over and I seeded, I don''t know what I''ll do, Curtis. Will I be able to continue? Should I go back to Haimirich? And then what? Stay with Abel until he no longer wants me? After that... what am I going to do?"

    Aries shook her head mildly. "I don''t know, Curtis. I love him, but he scares me. Because once he had enough... I will die." бк because Abel was the only person she let inside the tiny piece of her heart that was left within her. If Abel broke it, that''s all for Aries.

    "Then why are you marrying him if his fickle heart terrifies you?" he asked in a gentle tone.

    Sheughed and bit her lower lip. "Because I want to get married," she replied and smiled at him. "I want to experience getting married to the man I love."

    "And then what?"

    "And then..." her eyes moved to the ceiling, smiling subtly. "... go home."

    Curtis smiled as he nodded. "I''ll go with you, Aime." She moved her eyes back to him. "Let''s go home once everything is over."

    "Mhm..." she nodded, blinking weakly while he casually stroked her hair and massaged her scalp.

    "I mean to Rikhill," he said after a minute. "Let''s go home to Rikhill."

    Aries smiled and chuckled, gazing at him. "Of course," she agreed softly. "We''ll go back to Rikhill."

    "Swear with your life," he urged gently. "I don''t like that look in your eyes whenever you say home. It worries me."

    "I swear with my life," she replied almost immediately, keeping her eye contact with him. "I will go back to Rikhill."

    Curtis studied her eyes and sighed quietly. "Alright." He nodded, stopping himself from nagging her.

    Curtis knew Aries very well бк or rather, he knew the princess she used to be. But right now, he couldn''t confidently say he still recognized her. Not only she was different, but her eyes were just empty.

    ''Maybe he is rightбн'' he thought, thinking of Abel and the words the man told him during hisst visit to him. ''You areбн dead exhausted.''

    "I''m so proud of you, Aime," he expressed, making her raise her brows. "Coming into this ce is not easy, but you were doing a good job facing your nightmares every single day you open your eyes."

    Her expression rxed as she shrugged. "Waking up is the only option I got."

    "Even so," he stressed, patting her cheek lightly. "You deserved to be happy, Aime. More than anyone in this world."

    Aries''s eyes gleamed and smiled subtly. "Thank you for saying that."

    Both of them smiled at each other before they arched their brows. Curtis turned his head in the window while Aries propped her elbow to incline her body. The corner of their lips curled up, watching white little clouds falling.

    "It''s that time of the year, huh?" Curtis mumbled, and she hummed shortly. "But unlike before, it''s warmer this year."

    "Mhm." She hummed a tune once more. "It''s warmer... indeed."

 Chapter 337 Javier

    Days had passed since winter came. Everyone was busy changing everything to make every room warm and bearable to be in. Thanks to the crown princess, the maids in the Sapphire Pce had enough warm clothes and extra nkets to keep themselves warm even at night.

    Aries had also recovered well from that incident with Inez with enough rest before she returned to her crown princess''s duties. Joaquin would frequently visit her every single day, but he wouldn''t stay overnight with their preparations to end the Valiente Group.

    The tension in the empire continued to increase, yet no one seemed to have addressed it publicly. Some didn''t even notice that blood would soon spill as they would enter the darkest and hottest winter in the empire.

    "Something is amiss..." Aries narrowed her eyes, listening to the consistent tap of her fingers against the armrest. "Why do I feel so restless?"

    She closed her eyes and cocked her head back to think. The more distinct this brewing tension and the louder the silence continued, her heart had been restless. It was only a matter of time before Joaquin and Ismael make their move, and although Aries was confident in her bet, her gut feeling told her she was forgetting something.

    ''Joaquin is cunning and he wouldn''t fall easily...'' She opened her eyes slowly, catching the intricately decorated ceiling of her chancery. ''I know that already. But... why do I feel like I''m missing something here?''

    This gut feeling in her heart consistently blossomed with every passing day. She couldn''t help but doubt Ismael. Not that she didn''t trust his capabilities, and she made sure he had all the tools he needed. But this gut feeling told her it was another futile attempt.

    Why?

    What was the source of this restlessness?

    Aries was certain it wasn''t because she knew what was about to happen. It was something else and she couldn''t continue ignoring these danger signs.

    "I need to look around," she mumbled, and then pushed herself up from the oak chair. She grabbed her fur coat and wrapped it around her while she sauntered off to the crown prince''s chancery. She stopped by the door and nced at the knights guarding it from the outside.

    "I''ll visit the crown prince. Don''t let anyone inside."

    The knights bowed but didn''t follow her. The crown princess''s chancery and the crown prince''s office were in different buildings, but it was close to each other. So Aries only took no less than fifteen minutes to reach the floor where Joaquin''s office was at.

    Waltzing through the empty hallway leading to the crown prince''s chancery, Aries slowed down. Her footsteps echoed, resonating in her ears. Her heart, for some reason, thudded, and her breathing grew heavier. For a moment, her eyes zoomed in and out, making her steps falter as she closed her eyes. But when she reopened them, her vision was clear.

    She shook her head mildly. ''Not now,'' She told herself. ''I can''t get sick or exhausted now.''

    Aries cleared her throat and resumed in her tracks. When she turned in the corridor and Joaquin''s chancery came into sight, Aries slowed down seeing a person exit the office. Her breathing grew slower as the man walked in her direction. She kept her chin up, walking with poise, ignoring the man''s eyes.

    Time seemed to slow down the closer she and the man approached. Aries blinked ever so tenderly and for the briefest second, she held her breath when she was about to walk past the man. However, a hand suddenly grabbed her arm and stopped her pace.

    "Greetings, Your Royal Highness," greeted the man with a devious smirk.<sub> </sub>

    Aries arched a brow and nced down at her right arm before raising her eyes to meet the pair of silver, mirroring her unsmiling countenance.

    "Kindly let me go, Fifth Prince." Her smile didn''t reach her sharp eyes.

    "My apologies. It seemed I had forgotten my manners." Javier, the fifth prince, smirked and let her go, raising both his hands as he stepped back. "Your beauty simply mesmerized me. I thought it would be a shame not to greet you."

    Aries narrowed her eyes, walking in the same spot to face him. Her eyes scrutinized his face and his cunning aura.

    Javier Imperial, the fifth prince. This man had been behind Joaquin since the beginning. Aside from Roman, the seventh prince, and Hernan, the crown prince''s legal adviser, Javier was one of the people Joaquin trusted.

    ''Or maybe, I just didn''t know, but it is possible he trusted this man more than he trusted Hernan and Roman,'' was what crossed her head while studying this man who stayed out of her sight ever since she stepped foot in thisnd. ''I knew it. Something is amiss. Oh, Joaquin... you are such a wise man. If only you have the slightest bit of humanity in you, this Maganti would be great.''

    "Fifth Prince, it seemed my husband trusted you so much you are bold enough to touch me without my consent." The side of her lips curled up as she took a step forward, making Javier''s brow arch. She clipped her fingers on his cravat, fluttering her eyshes coquettishly.

    "I wonder if he is generous enough to share his wife with his brother?" she cocked her head to the side, smirking back at him. "Would his trust in you salvage you? I''m intrigued. Shall we test it?"

    Javier chuckled with his lips closed. "Are you testing me, Your Royal Highness?"

    "No, of course not." Sheughed, pulling down his cravat slowly. "I was simply being nice to you since my husband seemed to trust you so much. And I''m quite a jealous woman. I do not want my husband trusting anyone else more than me."

    The smile lines in Javier faded as he studied those pairs of emeralds mirroring him.

    "You do not have to worry about that, Your Royal Highness. I was gant, for I was naturally haughty. I had forgotten my ce," he expressed as his eyelids drooped, but it wasn''t enough to hide the contempt hiding within. "Apologies."

    Aries smacked her lips lightly as she rocked her head, releasing his cravat. She took a step back, eyes on him.

    "It was fine, Your Highness. I won''t take it to the heart... but I hope this is thest you forget your ce." A faint chuckle came out of her closed lips before she turned on her heel. As soon as Aries advanced in Joaquin''s office, her eyes glinted menacingly.

    ''This is not good,'' she told herself, jaw clenching at the sudden dread that crept up her spine.

    Meanwhile, Javier stared at her retreating figure silently. When he walked away in the opposite direction, the side of his lips curled up.

    ''Such a dangerous woman... cannot be trusted.''

 Chapter 338 Still A Mere Mishap?

    The knights announced Aries''s presence before they heard a voice from the inside, giving them permission to let her in. Aries curtsied for formality the second she stepped foot inside the office before Joaquin told her to take a seat on the divan while he settled things with Hernan.

    She waited for Joaquin to finish from the futon, watching him talk to his adviser. Joaquin looked normal whenever he was working, and hearing them talk about the state of affairs that didn''t include deaths or schemes was quite a refreshing sight to behold.

    When Joaquin dismissed Hernan, he arched a brow and gazed at the set of seats around the coffee table. His lips curled up the second his eyes met with hers. She had been watching him, and that look in her eyes held a faint admiration.

    "Now that I think about it, we usually meet in our chamber and meals." He knocked on the desk and stood from his seat, only to prop his bottom against the edge of the front side of the desk. He folded his arm under his chest, eyes on the woman sitting daintily on the futon.

    "I don''t think I had ever watched you immersed yourself in your mountain of paperwork," he continued as his eyes fastened in amusement, thinking there were more things they hadn''t seen in each other. "Now, I''m intrigued."

    "Was watching me re at the mountain of documents worth it to waste your precious time?" she humored. "But I was pleased to have a glimpse of how my husband works hard. He is quite charming, I must admit."

    Joaquin chuckled. "Is he?"

    "If I''ve seen him while he is in the middle of work before I married him, I would surely dream about him."

    "Have you recovered?" he asked after chuckling at her remarks. "I hope you do because it''s quite cold and warming up sounds truly enticing."

    "You can check my stitches and be the judge." She shrugged. "I do not want to take sole responsibility."

    Joaquin pressed his lips into a thin line while looking at her. If he wasn''t thinking about her well-being, he would''ve pounced on her aftering into his office to tease him. Also, this was her first time visiting him, so it was quite the perfect time to add some romance. However, they had ns and he couldn''t put his lust before that n.

    "Never mind." He shrugged and pulled his bottom away from the desk to her. The second he plopped down beside her, his hand crawled over the backrest, eyes on her.

    "I can wait and I do not want to deter your recovery just because I am itching to get my hands all over your body," he remarked with a teasing smirk. "How are you faring, my wife?"

    "I am alright..." Aries trailed off and bit her tongue. "Well, you hadn''t been visiting recently. So, I thought of visiting you."

    "How sweet. Did I worry you?"

    "Knowing you, getting worried is foolish."

    He arched a brow and cocked his head to the side. "Then why are you here?" he asked, ying with the tip of her hair.

    "Guess." She zipped her lips and smiled yfully.<sub> </sub>

    "Mhm... you need something?" His lips stretched broader than the golden gates when she rolled her eyes. "Circe. I''ve been using my head every second of every day and I do not have time for riddles."

    "Should I start speaking slower now, then?"

    "Haha... funny." Heughed weakly, gazing at her straight in the eye. "But I want to hear it, Circe. I want to hear the reasoning from those lips."

    Aries pursed her lips and let out a shallow breath. Averting her eyes, she whispered, "I came because I missed you." Her voice lowered at thest three words, barely audible.

    "I didn''t hear you."

    "Joaquin." Aries raised her eyes back to him and huffed before she repeated louder. "I said it''s because I missed you."

    She clicked her tongue in irritation. "Are you happy now?"

    "You don''t have to be angry about it, Circe." He chuckled, tucking her hair behind her ear. She nced at him and sighed, only to see his gentle countenance, whose eyes bore with nothing but affection.

    "Was it too much to ask to hear such affectionate words from my wife?" he wondered in a quiet voice, smiling weakly, batting his eyes ever so tenderly. "It is not like I will criticize you for expressing your fondness for me."

    Joaquin let out a deep exhale and moved closer, resting his head on her shoulder and circling his arms around her waist. He pulled her closer but avoided touching her wound underneath her dress. Aries forced her muscles to rx, knowing he would know if she stiffened at his touch.

    "I was exhausted, Circe, and I appreciate your gesture for visiting me because you missed me," he crooned, blinking weakly, unafraid of showing his exhausted state. "I would''ve kissed you right then and there, but kissing you will make it hard for me to stop. It was better if I conducted myself decently, so we can prepare your body to bear a child."

    Aries gazed down at him, surprise apparent in her eyes. ''Was he terrified ofmitting the same ''mistake?'' she wondered, but her surprise slowly shifted to anger but disappeared as quickly as to how it resurfaced. ''Does he still consider it as a mere mishap?''

    "Once everything is settled, I will return to you and give you my undivided time," he promised in a gentle voice, smiling at the thought of starting his own family with his beloved wife.

    There was a moment of silence between them before Aries leaned the side of her head against him. She raised her hand and patted the back of his shoulder lightly.

    "Joaquin... how was the seventh prince?" she asked, causing his brows to raise at her out-of-the-blue inquiry. "I wished for you to return, Joaquin. However, I had been... bothered by the people lingering around you."

    Her eyes glinted. "I think the seventh prince, Roman, is the mole we''ve been looking for."

 Chapter 339 Prove Her Wrong

    "I think the seventh prince, Roman, is the mole we''ve been looking for."

    Joaquin was sitting behind his desk, staring at the empty office and listening to the different volumes of silence. His wife''s voice would constantly resonate in his head, telling him of things he purposely ignored.

    "Violet."

    That was the only exnation Aries gave him why she was ''assuming'' Roman could be the mole. She told him she had been monitoring and looking out for him, which made sense. Recalling the time with the failure of Ismael''s arrest and how things turned around, it wasn''t surprising if the crown princess had a general idea of the situation.

    "Romanбн" Joaquin whispered, blinking ever so tenderly. "бн you better prove her wrong."

    Knock knockбн

    The door slowly creaked open after three calm yet distinct knocks. Joaquin kept his eyes ahead, watching the figure entering his vicinity from his peripheral.

    "Greetings to Your Royal Highness. I, the seventh prince, arrive after you summoned me." Roman bowed with his fist across his chest. He kept his hands behind him and stood straight, eyes on the crown prince''s side profile.

    Silenceбн

    Roman knitted his brows at the prolonged silence as Joaquin didn''t react for a long time. A part of his heart felt restless. He disliked Joaquin''s silence. Although the crown prince would usually stay hushed, the thickening quietness in the room was suspending the inbound breeze.

    And yet, Roman kept his thoughts to himself and waited patiently. But when Joaquin''s lips parted, his voice seemed to devour the silence in one giant bite.

    "The Valiente Groupбн" Joaquin snapped his eyes and slowly set them at Roman. "бн will go down tonight."

    Roman furrowed his brows. "Tonight?"

    "Prepare my people, Rome." The crown prince peeled his eyes away from him, and they glinted dangerously. "The Valiente district will be free from those barbarians tonight. We''ll decorate it nicely with their heads in the stakes."

    Roman lowered his head and grip his wrist tightly. He kept quiet only for a brief moment; he couldn''t prolong his hesitation and surprise if he didn''t want to get found out.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness," replied the seventh prince, hanging his head low. "I will prepare everyone tonight."

    When Roman raised his head, all he saw was Joaquin''s unsmiling side profile. He didn''t speak any longer as he excused himself and left the crown prince''s chancery. Whatever motivated the crown prince to move up the attack wasn''t important. What mattered now wasбн Ismael was a step behind once again.

    Roman let out a deep exhale as soon as he stood outside the crown prince''s office. His eye glinting, jaw tightening.

    ''I don''t have time,'' he told himself as he sauntered off. ''I can''t meet him or send someone to give Ismael a heads up. Joaquinбн what the hell is that man nning? He wasn''t the type to act recklessly and gain casualties more than he is willing to sacrifice. I don''t have a good feeling about this.''

    <strong>****</strong>

    Back in the crown prince''s chanceryбн

    Joaquin blinked slowly as soon as the door shut closed. His eyes were darker and unforgiving than ever. After several seconds, the other door connecting to the next room opened.

    "Your Royal Highness, you asked for me?" Hernan bowed, standing at the corner of the room near the door he came from. Although he had already heard Joaquin''s orders to Roman, he remained silent. If Joaquin had summoned them at the same time but kept the other''s presence a secret, then that only meant Joaquin had something in mind.<sub> </sub>

    "You heard my orders, Hernan." Hernan swallowed a mouthful of air the second his eyes met those sharp, menacing eyes. "If the Valiente fell at this surprise attack, then good. However, I have a feeling it won''t be that easy."

    "Your Royal Highness, what do you mean by that?"

    Joaquin leaned back and threw his head back, eyes closed. When he reopened his eyes, his lips parted.

    "Prepare a party of elite knights and also my shadow knights. Tonight''s agenda isn''t about massacring everyone in Valiente." The crown prince set his eyes back to Hernan, bearing murderous intent. "Tonight''s real agenda is to trap the rat sneaking around in my territory."

    <strong>*****</strong>

    "Wee back, Your Royal Highness."

    Aries ignored the beeline of servants who weed her back into the vestibule of the pce. Her steps were quick, but she maintained her poise, chin up. Her steps didn''t falter as she went straight to Curtis'' room. When she reached the outside of his room, she stopped and looked to the left.

    Several maids had followed her to help her get changed to follow her routine. However, she wasn''t in the mood to y the temperamental crown princess whose lifestyle was too expensive for anyone to afford.

    "I''m not in the mood for any pest today." She spoke, watching the maids flinch all at the same time at her crisp voice. "Do not bother me while I calm myself down. Unless you want to quench my anger by beheading yourself."

    She studied the maids who were hanging their heads low. Seeing that they were tamed enough to know her moods, she pushed the door open and mmed it closed. As soon as Aries was at the shut door behind her, she caught Curtis staring at the window like usual.

    "That damn bastardбн" she seethed, balling her hand into a fist. "How can I not consider he had another card up in his sleeve?"

    Her eyes heat up in anger, glinting with killing intent. Aries stood there, smoldering in anger, while Curtis carefully snapped his eyes and gazed at her.

    "Anything wrong?" he asked and tilted his head. "It''s rare to see you seething in anger. You always keep it in."

    <o>,m Aries huffed as she held her head and stomped her feet towards him. The second she plopped her butt down on the futon while he was in the armchair, she kept her eyes low.</o>

    "Joaquin doesn''t trust me just yet," she confessed through her gritted teeth. "I needed to do more for him. Something as big enough as to sell my good knight out."

    Curtis creased his brows. "You rat out the seventh prince?" he asked, and her silence was enough to get his answer. "And change your n entirely?"

    "Not entirely. He can''t dieбн"

    "And how are you going to save him when the crown prince is probablyying his traps now?" Curtis replied as quickly as the wind, waiting for her response, only to receive a grunt. A shallow breath slipped past his lips before he stood from his seat to sit beside her.

    "I got it." He elbowed her lightly. "Isn''t that why you are here?"

    "I don''t have a choice." Aries ground her teeth and faced him. "I promised you to keep you out of it, but бк"

    Curtis shook his head to stop her. The side of his lips curled up and held her hand, nodding at her encouragingly.

    "I know you promised to keep me out of it, but I''ve been a part of this, Aime. The crown prince put me through hell, and I would rather die than see him seed without a sign of his fall." He squeezed her hand mildly. "I got it. Trust me. I hate to prolong my stay in here just as much as you."

 Chapter 340 Massacre

    Hoursterбн

    The Valiente rebel group was arge organization that was originally just a group of farmers tired of being exploited by the monarch. They were simply normal citizens wanting to get to what was promised to them in exchange for their harvest.

    Things were peaceful at first, with the previous emperor clinching a proper bargain without giving or losing too much. However, after the death of the previous crown prince, Manuel, everything was put on a hold. Until the emperor''s health started deteriorating and the new crown prince бк Joaquin, an ambitious and cruel young man бк was put in charge.

    Left with dismay, the said freedom fighters fought for what was promised to them. But since Joaquin wasn''t open to any of their plea, they had no choice but to take what was theirs. Over time, the said group expanded as more and more victims of the rotten ruling sought help from them.

    For the poor, these vigntes were heroes. But for those aristocrats, the group was the bad people who needed to be set on fire alive. Themoners, on the other hand, had a divided opinion; half believed they should just obey thew as it was futile and only bring terror to them, while others were somehow inspired to fight for the oppressed. There were small numbers who didn''t care about them for as long as they weren''t affected.

    This was the main reason Joaquin had to work on his image and prolonged his patience with this group. One wrong order and he would be painted as evil and a tyrant.

    But tonightбн that would change, as the difference between good and bad would blur.

    In the middle of the night, the most silent time when everyone was fast asleep in their warm houses, men d in nk stealthily surrounded the bottom of the small hill, which was said to be the hideout of the core members of the rebel group.

    Under the seventh prince''smand, they made their way up. Each of their steps barely made a sound, aside from the constant cracks of leaves and twigs underneath their feet.

    Roman signaled everyone to move forward, and the lead captain of each unit signaled others to advance. As they all advanced, they soon reached the crest of the low hill, and a tiny hut came into sight. Everyone was wary, seeing faint light inside.

    All the knights in ck to camouge in the night looked around to make sure no one was alerted of this attack. When they were certain everything was going as nned, they waited for Roman''s go signal. However, it didn''te just as fast as he would usually do.

    Instead, Roman gazed at the peaceful hut and breathed out carefully. His eyes glinted because he made a gamble tonight, hoping he wouldn''t lose this one. Because if he didбн that would be his end. After careful breaths, he raised his hand as a signal to pause.

    He looked around and sniffed the night breeze. His brows furrowed before signaling the front lines to approach the hut, and they did бк as cautious as they could get. Roman remained at the back lines, watching peoplee closer and closer to the hut, guns and swords in their hands for any confrontation.

    One knight stepped into the vicinity of the hut, and rest his back on its wall while crouching low. Peeking up at the window, his brows furrowed. To let others know what he was seeing, he shook his hand, indicating to them that there was no one on that side of the window.

    One after another, they did what the knight did. They also signaled they had seen no movements from the inside. Assuming this was a little peculiar, they looked in Roman''s direction to get his permission to raid the hut. The seventh prince studied the hut before giving them what they needed.

    And with that, the knights surrounding the hut looked at each other and nodded silently. Wearing their courage and heart on their sleeve, the silence shattered with their shouts as they barged inside the flimsy door of the hut.<sub> </sub>

    However, as soon as they did, only one person was inside.

    The knights who were at the front line had their eyes go round, seeing a crippled old man sitting on an old chair. But his dying presence wasn''t what surprised them, but the explosives on the table, which were connected with a rope.

    Some knights unconsciously nced at the burning ropes and saw them extend to the ground and outside.

    It was a trap.

    <strong>BOOM!</strong>

    No one was quick enough to react to the old man''s smile as something exploded inside the hut, taking out the crippled man''s life in an instant. The explosives inside followed a series of explosions and while everyone on the outside was rmed, explosions nted around the crest of the hill blew off one after another.

    Seeing this and hearing his people''s shouts and then hearing how their voices disappeared, Roman remained rooted on the ground. His eyes were fixed on the hut as if he was silently paying respect to a particr elder who sacrificed himself for this to happen.

    After a minute, the seventh prince snapped and ordered at the tops of his lungs, "it''s a trap! Retreat!"

    <strong>BOOM!</strong>

    Another explosion came off near the seventh prince''s, throwing him to a distance. If he was a little closer, he would''ve lost a limb or two, just like the knights who were near the explosion. Limbs kept flying in the air while blood covered the small hill.

    Shouts to retreat and cries for help chorused with the deafening st that woulde off every twenty seconds. Soon, fire engulfed the entire ridge as the number of alive decreased in numbers significantly.

    <strong>****</strong>

    Meanwhile, at the bottom of the hill, Joaquin watched the fire ascend as thick smoke reigned in the sky. The snow soon changed into ck wools, nketing the white frost with darkness. The loud explosions reached their ears, but it wasn''t as loud for thempared to those who were on the scene.

    "Your Royal Highnessбн" Hernan called from behind him.

    "Don''t let him get away." Joaquin turned on his heel as he sauntered towards his steed. "I won''t let him die, just like he nned. I will kill him myself."

 Chapter 341 [Bonus Chapter]Torture

    Roman had a n.

    When Joaquin gave his orders about the surprise attack to the rebel group, the seventh prince''s gut feeling told him the crown prince was testing him. Thus, he took the gamble and proceeded with the preparation and thenбн die.

    Or rather, Roman nned to fake his death along with the knights. He couldn''t stay beside the crown prince since Joaquin was far more ruthless to traitors.

    But what Roman didn''t expect was that the knights who came with him with this attack weren''t the crown prince''s people. They were secretly reced with his own; the knights who fought alongside him for years. Thus, while he tried to run away, he was stopped when a hand grabbed his foot, asking him for help.

    His world stopped for a moment as the series of explosions blew off after recognizing the person whose veil was pulled down.

    Then it hit him.

    Not all the knights in the area were Joaquin''s people. Some were his.

    Roman knew Joaquin wasn''t just his enemy, but time as well. A second of hesitation could spoil his ns, but with his men dying partly because of him, he couldn''t turn his back on them. Therefore, with gritted teeth, he drag the knight to a safe ce he knew and then returned to the scene to save more of his people.

    However, before he could save more of his people, Roman was surrounded by the crown prince''s men. In his best shape, they wouldn''t even touch the seventh prince. But it was rtively easy to capture him with the thick smoke, exhaustion, and injuries he inflicted by saving his men on the hill full of explosives. He put up a fight, but it was futile.

    In the end, the crown prince''s people dragged Roman back to the dungeon in the inner pce.

    "Ughhh!"

    Roman ground his teeth at the searing pain of the hot iron they would consistently press on his thigh. There were no questions asked and simply tortured him while he was bound in a chair.

    "Ahhh!!" his shouts once again echoed in the enclosed dungeon when the branding iron touched his other leg. His entire body trembled, struggling to free himself from his binds on instinct but to no avail.

    It was hell and Joaquin wasn''t here yet. Once the crown prince arrived here, Roman could only think of the worse.

    The seventh prince panted for air, unable to close his mouth as sweats and saliva dripped down on his body. The gamble he tookбн Roman lost miserably and he could only me himself. If he didn''t hesitate and turn his back on his men, he could''ve been proimed dead with them or gotten branded as a traitor.

    Hanging his head low, the torture stopped to give him time to recover. As he was gasping for air, he heard footsteps. They were calm before he caught a shadow stretching towards him and then a pair of boots. When he looked up, all he saw from his blurring vision was Joaquin approaching him while thetter was fixing his ck gloves.

    "Romeбн" Joaquin''s voice was calm yet dark, reaching for the iron''s handle and letting it sit in the fire pit. "I had always been curious why someone as righteous as you would support me."

    "At first, I thought it was because of Carlos. You always have a confrontation with him and since that dead man sided with Ismael, you supported me to spite him," he continued and cocked his head back, indifferent eyes at the disheveled seventh prince. "We had a long history, Rome, and we built our trust from scratch."

    Joaquin lifted the hot iron and pressed it against Roman''s chest, inducing a deafening scream which echoed in his ear like thunder. Yet, the crown prince was unfazed while his brother writhe in pain, struggling in the chair to break away.<sub> </sub>

    "You know I never forgive traitors." His voice hit another level of low, almost unheard by the seventh prince''s scream. "I won''t kill you easily, though. I''ll take my time, kill you bit by bit. Until you tell meбн who else are the members of the Valiente Group?"

    The crown prince''s eyes glinted, retracting the hot iron and peeling Roman''s clothes and a part of his skin. Roman had been Joaquin''s henchman, and he executed many orders by the crown prince.

    Now that Joaquin was certain Roman was a traitor, everything was like puzzle pieces put into ce: the fire in the eighth prince''s quarter, the seal from Violet, and those failed operations in the past that Joaquin didn''t dwell on that much. But that wasn''t all because Joaquin was more concerned about whether Roman killed the people, Joaquin asked him to silence or faked their deaths and was now part of the Valiente Group.

    Assuming it was thetter, thenбн the Valiente fighters must cease to exist.

    "Oh, Romeбн we will have fun together." Joaquin chuckled wickedly, nning to make him talk after torturing him.

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ JADE PALACE ]</strong>

    <strong>SLAM!</strong>

    "That foolбн!" Ismael''s eyes shook as she mmed his palms on the desk of his study room after hearing the emergency report from his spy. "Fucking Joaquinбн Romeбн now of all timesбн"

    He ground his teeth, seething in anger. Just now, his spy told him about the secret attack Joaquin conducted and Roman being in the crown prince''s custody. The third prince wasn''t dumb to grasp the situation and what happened.

    "Why didn''t heбн" Ismael trailed off as an answer to his question crossed his head.

    Through Roman, Ismael had always known Joaquin''s movements until now. But this surprise attack wasn''t in the n. That only meant Joaquin must''ve sensed something amiss and changed his n, taking Roman by surprise. Therefore, the seventh prince didn''t have time to report to Ismael and was forced to resolve things on his own by faking his death to avoid spoiling their ns. But s, since Roman was now held captive, he failed.

    "That foolбн!" Ismael stomped his feet towards the stand and snatched his coat to call for an emergency meeting. Joaquin would kill Roman. Knowing the crown prince, he wouldn''t kill the seventh prince immediately, but he would surely put him through hell. They needed to rescue Roman before it was toote.

    But just as Ismael was about to cross the threshold of his quarter, a figure suddenly appeared at the end of the corridor. The end of a sword handle was thrust onto his chest, stopping the third prince in an instant.

    Ismael''s eyes shook as he held his breath for a moment, gazing at the person in the dark and just right in front of him. When the light from the sconce hit the person''s face, the third prince''s eyes dted.

    "Making a move now will only give the crown prince an upper hand," said Curtis with eyes as sharp as a dagger. "Don''t let your emotions overtake your judgment."

    "Youбн" Ismael''s voice shook as he balled his hand into a tight fist. "бн she sold Roman out, did she?"

 Chapter 342 [Bonus Chapter]

    With Curtis''s appearance in the Jade Pce, Ismael had no other option but to return to his study with him. The third prince kept pacing back and forth, while Curtis was leaning in the corner of the room with folded arms, eyes on Ismael.

    "Damn that womanбн" Ismael cursed through his gritted teeth, running his hand through his hair. "What the hell is she up to now?"

    Ismael, although never trusted Aries, knew she wanted Joaquin''s demise just as much as he does. However, he shouldn''t be thatcent. Aries would sacrifice him and use him as fodder for her convenience. If Curtis was here, then that answered Joaquin''s change of ns. Aries used her sly mouth once again.

    "Calm down бк"

    "Calm down?! How can I?!" Ismael roared at Curtis. "My damn brother is out there being tortured to death! You fucking know how far Joaquin can take this just to fucking get what he wants. It would be better if he just slit Rome''s throat, but Joaquin wasn''t that kind."

    He huffed, his thoughts jumbled at the fact that things had turned once again and he had to start from scratch. An endless cycle, Ismael just wanted to get out of.

    "Damn!" he clutched a portion of his hair with both his hands, having this urge to pull his scalp apart. "This is all her fault. No, it''s mine. I shouldn''t have taken my eyes off of that woman."

    "You shouldn''t have." Curtis agreed, nodding mildly, while Ismael gazed back at him. "If only you had monitored her movements, you wouldn''t be in this situation."

    Ismael scoffed at Curtis'' calmness, but he couldn''t really argue with him. What Curtis said was nothing but facts.

    "You''ve known she isn''t your ally, nor she is your enemy. All she wants is the crown prince''s downfall and she would stop at nothing to achieve that," exined Curtis to Ismael, which he didn''t have to since Aries made it clear to the third prince. "Have you ever wondered why she gave you the power you are holding now? It''s because she doesn''t need it."

    Curtis paused as he sized Ismael from head to toe. "You might have amon enemy, but your goals are different, Third Prince. The people in the Maganti Empire weren''t her people, and thus, she had no obligation to protect them. After all, our Rikhill had suffered while the people in here rejoiced for every victory of their beloved crown prince."

    "You can''t me Aime for what happened to the seventh prince. The me is yours to take responsibility for being ipetent." Curtis'' words stung like a powerful jab, but he said it anyway with a straight face.

    ? For reasons unknown, Ismael could only look at this man and calmed down slightly. Losing it would do more damage. What the third prince needed to do was to calm down and think of a resolution.

    "Damn itбн" Ismael ran fingers through his hair once again, defeated once more.

    Curtis was right.<sub> </sub>

    Ismael was ipetent. He thought he was decisive enough, butpare to Aries who could sell her soul and conscience, and Joaquin, who could take his cruelty ten times deeper than hell, Ismael had still a long, long way to go.

    But then again, didn''t Aries tell him not to change? Just what sort of thing he shouldn''t change when his enemies always get the upper hand just because ying dirty never bothered them?

    Curtis shook his head sideways, watching how Ismael came from an angry dog to someone who was having a mental breakdown. It didn''t take long before silence reigned over them.

    "She would''ve pped you to your senses if she''s here," he mumbled, but Ismael heard him loud and clear. Curtis tapped his temple mildly. "Use your head for once and not your heart. Why do you think she had to do this? The seventh prince is an asset for her and sacrificing him was a big, enormous loss to your side. Yet, she still did. Why don''t you think about her reason if you are in her shoes?"

    Curtis cocked his head to the side and let out a deep exhale. "No wonder Joaquin is always a step ahead of you. He always uses his head and not just his heartбн I''m not sure if he has one, though. I''m saying always put yourself in your enemy''s shoes when making a decision or trying to find answers to their actions. Compared to the powers in your grasp, Aime doesn''t have those; she gave them all to you, remember? But why can she do small ripples and turn them into gigantic waves?"

    "The answer is quite simply, Your Highness. It''s just that she knew her enemies and uses her head over her feeling. Therefore, she can decide at critical times."

    Ismael ignored Curtis''s unnecessary remarks and absorbed the other pieces of information in his statements.

    "A trade," he breathed out and nced at Curtis, seeing thetter rock his head. "And what did she trade it for?"

    "What do you think that will equal this situation?"

    The third prince held his breath before he curled his hand into a tight fist. What sort of trade was worthy of losing an asset like Roman? In the back of Ismael''s head, he already got his answer. There was just one thing that Aries could gain from this more than what she had lost.

    "Trust," Ismael whispered and closed his eyes.

    Curtis smirked. "Correct. Unlike you, who didn''t need the crown prince''s trust with your deadlock rtionship, Aime needed his trust. After all, you are after an empire and sheбн is simply after him."

    Ismael and Curtis looked at each other in silence before thetter let out a sharp exhale. Ismael dragged his feet towards the armchair and plopped his butt down on it, reclining as if he had just run a marathon.

    "For his trustбн she will let Rome die?" Ismael inquired as he looked up at the ceiling. "I won''t let that happen. Rome is the bridge I have to the Valiente Group. Those fools won''t listen to me. Worse. They would attack with no concrete n if Joaquin nned to execute Rome publicly. His people won''t allow their leader to die right before their eyes. They would surely do everything they could, even if it means interrupting the execution, not knowing they were stepping into a giant trap."

 Chapter 343 Love Letters

    Curtis pressed his lips into a thin line and retracted his back from the wall. He slowly advanced in Ismael''s direction, taking a seat on the other armchair near him. He quirked a brow at the book on the coffee table, bending over to pick it up.

    "Do what you must," Curtis advised, as he opened the book and skimmed through it. "But just so you know, not everyone who does trade keeps the end of their bargain. They were those who are fair and then crooks. Aime is surely not the former бк at least, not anymore."

    Ismael furrowed his brows and nced at the calm Curtis. "What do you mean by that?"

    "What I mean by that is the literal meaning." Curtis shot the third prince a knowing look. "The seventh prince is a good piece to lose that easily. I won''t keep feeding you answers since she trusted you and gave you the power you hold right now. It''s all on you to use them at your own disposal."

    Curtis leaned backfortably. "I like this book," he added. "Think, Prince. What step do you need to do? Mind you. Aime doesn''t even know the other secrets you already knew. It will be very disappointing if you still don''t get a grip and keep losing it every time your enemy did something that is out of their usual pattern."

    "You are in a real world," Curtis continued and set his indifferent eyes on him. "You are dealing with people with differing views and opinions. Stop ying by the book and learn how to improvise when things turned into a situation that isn''t in your favor. Keep yourself level-headed because, at the end of the day, your wits will save you, not just your brute strength."

    He tapped his temple and shrugged. "Brain. It''s there for a reason. If it''s useless, just invite that human bird and ask him to take you to the mountaintop and sacrifice it to the vultures. That way, you did a good deed by preventing the birds from starving."

    "Stop talking shit now," Ismael grumbled and closed his eyes, taking a deep breath to calm himself. Although most of what Curtis said made sense, there were certain things that were meant to diss the third prince. But Ismael didn''t want to get riled up at this insolence.

    Curtis had exerted an effort toe to the Jade Pce to stop him from doing foolish actions. Ismael, although hadn''t voiced that out, was a little grateful for this man. If Curtis was a littlete, Ismael would''ve foiled everything they worked so hard for.

    His jaw tightened at the thought. Still, Roman suffered every passing second, while Ismael was sittingfortably in his study room. But reacting now was what Joaquin wanted.

    "Now that I think about itбн" Ismael''s eyes cracked open and set them at Curtis, who was reading a book leisurely. "How did you get in here without being noticed?"

    "I might not be as fierce as Aime or as skilled as Davien, but I''m still a warrior from the small yet great Rikhill." Curtis nced at him nonchntly. "Despite being small, it persisted for centuries until your brother set his eyes on it. Why did you think the crown prince brought thatrge troop with him just to conquer such a small kingdom?"

    Ismael rocked his head because that made sense.

    "Moreover, being a crippled mute had its perks," Curtis added with a shrug. "Who would suspect that someone like me can talk, think, and walk? Even the crown prince wouldn''t suspect me since he was confident with the curse he put on me.."

    "Still, I had my limitations," he continued. "This is as far as I can go; to talk to you until you get yourself together and impart a little bit of my wisdom that I am willing to give to someone whose blood shelters the blood of an Imperial. As for what could happen afterwardбн it''s all on you."<sub> </sub>

    "After all, even if this Maganti falls into someone else hands is not of my concern. So long as the crown prince dies, I don''t care how this empire will turn out." Curtis blinked twice while studying the third prince. "It would be better if the emperor of Haimirich destroy it since he had been repeating not to do it like a broken record every time he counts how many times Joaquin touched Aime."

    Ismael let out another sharp exhale as he nearly forgot about that tyrant. Abel had been behaving and never showed up to him, but well, it seemed he was spending more time with Curtis nowadays. He didn''t even question Curtis'' remarks, as it sounded like something Abel would do.

    That guy was crazy and capable.

    Destroying the Maganti Empire was a piece of cake for that monster, but he was holding back just because he respected that this was Aries'' fight and could only cheer for her with pom-poms from the sidelines.

    In other words, it wouldn''t be a surprise if Abel was going crazy to keep his urges and demons at bay. That tyrant was exerting effort to keep his hands off of this matter.

    "I know now. Thanks," Ismael expressed without taking his eyes off the ceiling. "You don''t have to stay here."

    "I didn''t n to, but I have to." The third prince''s brow arched as he nced at Curtis, only to see the man reading the book leisurely. "People are watching this ce when I snuck in and barely went past their noses. More people and eyes are now in here, so going out now and getting unnoticed is impossible."

    Curtis smiled almost innocently at him. "It seems we have to spend a night together. Fret not. I only n to beat allmon sense into you until you get out of this room as a brand new person."

    "Don''t spend so much time with him." Ismael shook his head, unsettled by that innocent smile. "You sound that emperor now."

    "I''m not spending time with him. He justes in my room and sings his woes in a loop." Curtis shrugged. "Anyway, if I were you, if you''ve calmed down now, you need to start working and write letters to be sent first thing in the morning. Every bird that will leave ande to this pce tonight will surely get shot down. Be creative in how they will be delivered to the rightful recipient."

    Ismael remained silent and pondered about it. "Of courseбн they will shoot down all letters that will approach this ce." He then pped his thigh and headed toward his desk.

    "Once they shoot them down, they will reach the crown prince. Let me send him a love letter, then."

    Curtis nced at Ismael, who was now sitting behind his desk with a cunning smirk as he write a letter. He shook his head mildly before the side of his lips curled up. He then nced at the window far away from him.

    ''You shouldn''t be worried about him anymore, Aime. Now, it''s all on you on how you make this thing in your favor.'' His eyes softened with worry. ''I have this feeling, thoughбн that this trust you seek from the crown prince will shake you to the coreбн for there were more things you didn''t know just yet.''

 Chapter 344 Breakfast

    "What did the zero say to the eight?" Aries furrowed her brows at the message sent to her from an unknown source. "That belt looks good on you."

    "бн"

    Aries blinked cluelessly, staring at the piece of paper with a dead expression. Minutes ago, while she was sitting in her room, thinking of what was happening currently, a bird came knocking on her balcony. It wasn''t Morro, so she cautiously received it after making sure no one was around.

    However, now that she had opened the context of the letter, Aries figured out this came from Abel for sure. Where he got the bird who sent it was not important.

    "Is he trying to make me feel better?" she murmured,ughing weakly at this silly gesture. She read the joke once again and then noticed thest part.

    [ Smile for me if you do not wish for the whiny boy to whine. ]

    "He probably heard what happened." A deep exhale slipped past her lips as she dragged her feet to the futon where she was sitting previously. "Hahбн he always wastes papers."

    The side of her lips curled up as she shook her head. Her weakughter was a little dyed the more she thought about the pun. It was so unfunny, it was funny.

    "Seriouslyбн how can he joke at a time like this?" she exhaled deeply, leaning back, raising the letter to look at it once more. "But then again, they were here for vacation purposes while I nned to ruin this empire. Things like this shouldn''t surprise me anymore."

    Her eyes softened as she pressed her lips into a thin line. "I have so many things to thank him for. I feel better now, Abel. Thank you."

    Aries dropped her hand and gazed up at the dim ceiling that the lights from the candles barely reached. Ever since she returned from her visit to Joaquin''s chancery, Aries had been restless. She was aware Roman was being tortured now and Ismael had probably heard about it.

    She trusted Curtis and his ability to stop Ismael from letting his emotions take over him. Still, sitting in this room, waiting for the sun to rise, increased the restlessness in her heart. Aries couldn''t just sleep, knowing she had to strike while the iron was hot, but not tonight when Joaquin''s attention was on Roman.

    It was a delicate matter and one wrong move or word could spoil everything she worked hard for.

    But thanks to Abel and this letter he sent her, she somehow calmed down.

    "He won''t kill himбн" she told herself, reminding herself of the reason she shouldn''t hurry to Joaquin and gain his attention. "Knowing him, he is probably quenching his anger. But he wouldn''t beat Roman to death; he isn''t that kind."

    If kindness for others was sharing their portion of food with others, Joaquin''s kindness was killing someone in an instant without going through torture. Everyone was aware of how Curtis had be after being with Joaquin; the crown prince had killed Curtis'' spirit until he was nothing but a dog who would bark at his behest.<sub> </sub>

    But since this traitor was Roman, the seventh prince, Joaquin couldn''t kill him easily. There were many secrets the seventh prince knew, but more than that, there were people Joaquin wanted dead. But now, their deaths were now a blur, since Roman was the person who did most of his dirty work.

    "Now that I think about it, Joaquin is someone who divides his trust," she mumbled, blinking weakly. "He trusted Roman with his dirty works, Hernan to all his illegal businesses, and Javierбн"

    Aries narrowed her eyes, wondering what sort of secret Javier knew that those two didn''t. Joaquin was the person who wouldn''t put all his trust in one basket. There were things Roman knew that Hernan and Javier would know; it was the same with Hernan and Javier.

    ''I need him to tell me what those three knewбн'' Aries raised her finger and bit the nail of her thumb. "Especially, what that Javier knows." бк because if she couldn''t, Joaquin would always have a card she didn''t know about that could possibly save Joaquin at thest minute.

    At this point, Aries couldn''t afford Joaquin having more cards to y. She couldn''t let him turn things around once Ismael started his fight. Aries was here to make sure Joaquin would never sit on the throne and watch everything he had worked hard to be imed by someone else.

    "I hate him," she whispered, gazing at the darkroom with sharp eyes as she soon remained silent for a long time. She didn''t move from her position, watching the candles on the stand melt as time passed by.

    The night was oddly silent, but she could hear Roman''s screams in her head. All night, while others were fast asleep and others were busy doing the task they were given, Aries sat in that chair without a wink of sleep. Yet, she didn''t feel sleepy at all.

    Even when the window from behind her showed some light as the dark sky turned to a deep blue, which slowly changed into a lighter shade. When Aries finally turned her head around, it was already morning, but the sun hid behind the thick clouds.

    Just the sight of the morning winter felt chilly, but her eyes were already icy.

    Knock knockбн

    "Mydy, are you awake now?" asked a female servant from the outside, and when she heard the crown princess''s voice, the servant entered discreetly with a basin and pewter. When the maid ced them on the table in front of Aries, she took a step back and bowed.

    "Your Royal Highness, a word from the inner pce came today. The crown prince is inviting you to the inner pce for breakfast."

    Aries paused from reaching for the water and arched a brow. She nced at the maid, who reced Gertrude.

    "Hahбн how amusing," she whispered and smirked. "After an adventurous night, he still had energy for breakfast."

    "Prepare a pleasant dress. I will join him shortly."

 Chapter 345 [Bonus Chapter]Not Cruel

    The tworge doors opened while Aries stood in the middle. The second she caught the long dining table with a chandelier over it, she caught Joaquin sitting on the end. He was already slicing through the steak in silence, ignoring her presence.

    Aries crossed the threshold and stopped, ncing over to her left.

    "Bring me a medicinal kit for the crown prince''s scrapes," came out an unfaltering voice to the nearest maid standing on the side of the door.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness." The maid bowed deeper and walked with her eyes down to get what Aries needed.

    Meanwhile, Aries resumed in her steps and greeted the crown prince. Joaquin didn''t reply even until she sat down on his right, instead of the other end of the long table, since that had be a routine to them.

    Studying him silently, Aries gazed at the cuts on Joaquin''s knuckles. She sized him up and figured, aside from those on his knuckles бк probably after beating Roman to a pulpst night бк Joaquin was just as neat as always.

    ''Should I break the silence?'' she wondered and then mentally nodded, disliking this silence reigning in the dining hall. However, just as her lips parted, Joaquin ced the te with the sliced steak in front of her.

    Her brows rose in surprise before gazing up at him. Joaquin, who had been ignoring her since her arrival, sported a gentle smile. With the knife still in his grip, he propped his jaw against his knuckle. His other hand that was holding the fork was resting on the edge of the table.

    "Don''t give me that look," humored Joaquin, studying the apparent surprise dominating her face. "I simply cut the meat into small portions so my wife doesn''t have to bother slicing the meat herself."

    "Joaquinбн"

    "Hmm?" he tilted his head a little to the side, blinking almost innocently.

    Aries held his gaze for a moment before a shallow breath slipped past her lips. "Very well. Thank you. I appreciate this gesture."

    "You''re wee." He nodded in satisfaction, winking at her, while the servant ced another serving to Joaquin. The crown prince didn''t idle as he started slicing the meat on the te into small portions.

    "I''ve had a very long night, Circe. But I''d say it was quite productive too. Although I barely slept." Joaquin shrugged, talking to her casually as if nothing had happenedst night. While he continued his tale aboutst night, Aries could not help but study him in under the facade of listening to him.

    In her eyes, Joaquin wasn''t bothered by Roman or what he did to the man. There wasn''t even the slightest vestige he felt sorry for the seventh prince.

    It turned her stomach.

    Although Aries was aware Joaquin was heartless, the seventh prince was still his brother and someone he used to trust. For sure, there were memories they shared and not everything was bad.

    After all, Joaquin had this side where he could be very considerate sometimes. This side of Joaquin was what Aries had been taking advantage of and she was certain it was the same with Roman. But in just a snap of a finger, nothing ever mattered to him, and Joaquin could go on with his life; he would eat fancy meals, talk to his wife as if he was the cleanest man in the world, and then act like a doting husband.

    It was sickening how he could stomach torturing others ande to his wife as if no one was suffering because of him. For sure, he was like this too in the past. While Aries was suffering, Joaquin was having the time of his life.

    "Soбн" Aries spoke when Joaquin finally paused going around in a circle. "бн was my gut feeling correct? I hope I wasn''t."<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin smacked his lips, chewing the food until he swallowed it. His eyes studied his beautiful wife, giving him this fresh look from the grotesque scene he was in all night.

    "Why do you wish you were wrong?" he asked and quirked a brow.

    Aries didn''t respond immediately as she wiped the corner of her lips with a white cloth. "Because at the end of the day, the seventh prince was still one of your trusted henchmen. Having someone as close as him as a spy is troublesome."

    "I seeбн" he rocked his head and leaned back. "Well, guess what?"

    She looked back at him and waited for his reply. His expression didn''t change much. If anything, Joaquin seemed to be in an excellent mood despite everything. Hence the anxiety and restlessness in her heart.

    "Apparently, my keen wife was correct." He sighed. "The seventh prince is a traitor."

    Aries closed her eyes. "Did you kill him?"

    "No. You seem to view me as a cruel man, Circe." Joaquin shook his head, blurring the lines between what was being cruel and being generous. "The seventh prince was one of my henchmen, but he turned out to be a traitor. Even so, I couldn''t just set aside the good and bad times we shared."

    She held her breath. "Really?"

    "Really." His lips stretched as he winked at her once more. "I do not want to return his treachery with evil deeds."

    "How generous." Sheughed and shook her head, hiding any traces of disgust and dismay trying to resurface in her eyes. Today''s breakfast was critical, knowing Joaquin would be doubtful to anyone. However. Aries was wrong and she would know why shortly.

    Joaquin reached his hand to her, cradling it. He kept his eyes on her, smiling subtly, before guiding her hand to his lips to ce a light peck on her knuckles.

    "I haven''t thanked you for looking out for me," he expressed, kissing the back of her hand once more. "I am near my goal, Circe. You should not bother about other things for now. Reducing your workload will allow you to rest more and take care of yourself."

    Her eyes softened as a subtle smile dominated her face. "How long would I have to wait?"

    "Short enough for you to prepare yourself to carry my heir." He blinked while nodding, grinning when her brows furrowed. "Circe, you had proven yourself to me countless times. It would be foolish of me to keep doubting your loyalty. Therefore, I want to take you somewhere today."

    "Outside?" she asked, only to crease her brows even more when he shook his head.

    "Somewhere better." His lips stretched broader, making her heart pound against her ribcage. "After this, let''s take a morning walk. I had freed my morning schedule to spend some time with you."

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips before holding his hand to her cheek. "Alright," she replied. "I would love to."

    Little did Aries know, the ce he would take her would make her question every decision she made since stepping foot in this ce once again.

 Chapter 346 [Bonus Chapter]Meeting Her Father-In-Law

    Aries and Joaquin dined peacefully, talking casually like most husbands and wives would do. After finishing their meal, instead of going outside for a walk, Aries told him to stay as the maid finally brought the medicine kit for the scratches on Joaquin''s knuckles.

    "I always find your hands pretty," she spoke to end the silence, eyes focused on putting ointment on Joaquin''s knuckles. "They wererge and a little intimidating. At first, it made me think they wererge enough to snap my neck. However, whenever you touch meбн these hands, although rough and I could feel your calluses on my skinбн"

    Aries paused and nced up at him. "They were surprisingly gentle. Sometimes, possessive. But it had a good bnce, making me lose my mind whether or not I want to be held tight enough until I feel suffocated or gentle enough to feel your warmth." She smiled subtly, telling him the words which were meant for another man.

    His eyes were soft as its corner squinted. "But you hate them when they weren''t washed?"

    "Yes. Definitely." Her reply was quick, making himugh out loud. "Joaquin, my dearest husband, I do not mind holding your hand. But in bed, things are different. I do not want to reek of another person''s scent other than mine or yours."

    "Aren''t you a little silly, Circe?"

    "People were silly, to begin with." She shrugged.

    "Well, I guess we all have that part in ours that we didn''t know is within us until you feel it." He nodded in agreement, gazing at her smirk before she refocused on treating the minor scratches on the back of his hand. "Just like how I think it was foolish to put all my eggs in one basket, but I still feel like doing so."

    Her brow arched and looked back at him. "I hope you''re not talking about your mistress."

    "Circe. Are you still doubting mymitment to you?" he asked. "I had remained abstinent all because of you. I do not want anyone else but you, my love."

    ''Of course, you won''t. That won''t raise anymore.'' She bit her tongue and smiled back at him.

    "I hope." She red at him yfully and clicked her tongue. "Being married to a handsome and capable man can be a curse. I would always have to keep an eye on him, knowing he would attract all sorts of temptations."

    "Aren''t you a jealous woman?" He chuckled, pleased by her possessiveness. Joaquin sped her hand gently and guided it to cup his cheek. "I love this side of yours."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line and averted her eyes. "This won''t charm me."

    "And I love this side, too." The side of his lips stretched yfully when she red at him for a moment. "That re too."

    "Stopбн" she rolled her eyes, only to hear him say, "that eye roll is quite fascinating too."

    Aries puffed her cheek and heard anotherpliment from him. Hispliments continued at every little thing she would do and every different expression she would sport. Although she was aware Joaquin was just being yful, it increased her anxiety. This also meant Joaquin was alert subconsciously. If she showed an out-of-ce emotion, he would surely catch it, no matter how brief it appeared.<sub> </sub>

    "Tch." She clicked her tongue in irritation while heughed louder. "Joaquin, stop. You''re embarrassing me."

    "Oh, wife." He shook his head and held her hand until his chin was resting over their entwined hands. His eyes were fixed on her, studying her gorgeous face and that faint blush on her cheek. Surely, she was one of a kind. Someone who was fierce and keen, but at the same time, would act bashfully when teased just for a bit.

    "You''re everything I want from a woman," he confessed after his brief silence, taking her by surprise as she looked back at him with wide eyes. His naughty smirk grew gentle, eyes filled with nothing but affection and admiration.

    He didn''t continue his sentiments as he simply looked at her. They held each other''s gaze for a very long time, making him think he married a capable and wise woman. The reason he wasn''t in a terrible mood despite the urrencest night was that one thing was for sure.

    Joaquin might''ve lost Roman, but his wife was someone far better. She might not be as skilled as the seventh prince in terms of their swordsmanship, but her mind was sharper than any de. Not to mention, his wife understood him.

    The crown princess wasn''t the person to judge him so easily. She doesn''t condemn his methods, although she would sometimes voice her disagreement with them.

    "That''s all that I wanted," he murmured while she cocked her head to the side."

    "Huh?"

    He simply smiled in response. "Nothing, Circe. Don''t mind me. I''m simply mumbling things because the more I look at you, the more I am thankful to have you by my side." His eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, hiding the dangerous glint behind them.

    "You are mine," he imed under his breath. "Just mine."

    Aries kept her meek smile. "For as long as you treat me right."

    "No, Circe." He shook his head, using the same tone to speak a chilling statement. "Even if I don''t treat you right, you are mine. And I will make sure of that."

    Her heart thudded against her chest. Yet, she maintained herposure and continued to treat the minor scratches on his hand and then up into his arms. After that, the two of them departed the dining hall to enjoy what she expected to be a normal morning walk.

    To her surprise, Joaquin led her to the inner pce. At first, she thought he nned to show her Roman, but when they went past the inner pce and onto the emperor''s pce, it piqued her interest.

    But nowбн after entering the emperor''s room to meet her father-inw for the first time, Aries felt her blood run cold while staring at the person inside a cage.

    "Thisбн is the emperor?"

 Chapter 347 Even If I Dont Treat You Right, You Are Mine.

    "Thisбн is the emperor?"

    Aries''s mind went nk, and she barely blinked while staring at the animal inside the cage. No, it wasn''t a wild animal. There was blood all over him, dried blood around his mouth and on his entire body, smudging the floor. Intimidating grunts would caress her ears from time to time, reaching his dirty hand towards them.

    ''What is thisбн?'' she wondered while all the muscles in her body stiffened as a knot in her stomach tightened.

    This was something that never crossed her. Even in her wildest imagination would she ever consider the emperor falling to this state? Had he lost his mind? Aries could only twist this revtion to make more sense to her since there was no way the emperor would be a monster.

    She flinched slightly when the man within the cage raised his eyes to her. His eyes were bloodshot and the veins in his sclera were protruding as if they would explode anytime soon.

    "Grrбн" the old man ground his teeth, showing the fresh blood on them. Saliva dripped from the corner of his mouth as if he was a hungry dog, wanting to feast on her.

    Aries staggered back on instinct while shaking her head sideways. Her breath hitched when she heard Joaquin''s calm voice.

    "It is saddening, isn''t it?" her eyes shook as she moved them to him. Joaquin was standing beside her previously, hands on his back, eyes on the person inside the cage.

    "He was once a man who had the world at his feet. Look at him now. All he can think about was his growling stomach inside this cage, and unable to conduct himself properly." Joaquin snapped his eyes ever so tenderly, showing zero remorse at the man, his flesh and blood. "It is a shame he couldn''t appreciate the beauty of my wife and warn you about me."

    He slowly turned on his heel and faced her. Dread was apparent on her face, but he smiled subtly.

    "What do you think, Circe?" he asked. "Do you understand why I took you here?"

    Her lips quivered, trying her best to look rattled more than horrified. "What did you do to him?"

    "Nothing, my love." Joaquin shrugged and stretched his hand to her. "Come. You will feel safe if you stay close."

    "No." Aries shook her head and took a step back. "No, Joaquin. I can''t go there."

    He frowned as he cocked his head. "And why is that? Don''t you feel safe with me?"

    "No." She gulped, taking another step back. But before his frown deepen, she added. "Youe to me. I don''t want to be near there. It turns my stomach."

    Joaquin studied her and then nced at the distance where they had stood previously. When a shallow breath escaped his mouth, he rocked his head and advanced in her direction.<sub> </sub>

    "Let''s calm you down first," he said the second he snaked his arm around her. But before they could walk away, Aries wrapped her limbs around him and buried her face in his chest. Her grip tightened around his waist while he gazed down on her, feeling her body vibrate against him.

    The side of his lips curled up into a subtle smile, patting her back gently. "It''s fine, my love. I''m here for you." He continuously rubbed her back, standing in that same spot for minutes.

    Meanwhile, Aries, whose forehead was against his chest, lowered her eyes. She tightened her embrace around him, not to soothe her fear, but to get herself together under the facade she was scared of the emperor and needed him.

    ''What is going on here?'' she asked herself multiple times already. ''Is thisбн is this the truth Javier holds?''

    Her gulp resonated in her ears while her breathing grew heavier. The hand that was rubbing her back didn''t soothe her even a bit. If anything, she felt disgusted, and it terrified her. This fearбн was something she had never felt before. It clouded all the meticulous ns in her head. But more than that, her primary concern was her uing wedding to the man she loved.

    ''He is hereбн'' she thought and herplexion instantly turned pale. ''Abelбн he is in this ce. Joaquin will kill him if he knew about him.''

    At that moment, Aries felt like all the things she had worked hard for, and having this upper hand spiraled. She felt driven to a corner, figuring out how wicked this crown prince could be. If he could do this to the emperor, to his biological father, Joaquin could do anything.

    The love he spoke of to herбн wouldn''t even salvage her.

    <strong>''No, Circe. Even if I don''t treat you rightбн you are mine.'' </strong>

    Her back stiffened as his voice and ims previously crossed her head. Knowing this situation now, those sentiments felt ten times dreadful. It wouldn''t be just as easy as to say Joaquin would take away the little power from the crown princess or lock her in a room.

    If Joaquin wanted her, he would easily turn her into this monster. How he would do it, Aries doesn''t have the slightest notion how. But what she was certain of was Joaquin was a man who could do things like this. He was someone who would rather kill someone ''in the name of love.'' He would rather see her die as his beloved wife and crown princess than let her be.

    Aries clenched her teeth and swallowed down the fear that was clouding her head.

    "Can you walk?" he asked after minutes of silence. Her face crumpled, eyes heating up in anger and fear, but she ground her teeth so hard they nearly broke. When she raised her head, her expression was tamed.

    "Carry me, please," came out a muffled voice. "I''m too stunned. I can barely keep my ground."

    "What a piece of work. If I knew this would happen, I would''ve introduced you to His Majesty after you''ve given birth." He sighed and smiled reassuringly at her. "Let me carry you, then. Don''t be afraid. I''m here with you."

    Joaquin''s smile was gentle as if everything was going to be fine. After that, he carried Aries and sat her down on the edge of the bed, a position where they could still look at the cage so she would get used to it.

 Chapter 348 If Only You Are Her

    There were many chairs Joaquin and Aries could sit in the emperor''s spacious room. But he chose to sit her down on the edge of the bed where they were facing the cage that was beyond the opened curtains. Unlike this side of the room that was decorated grandly ted with gold, that part of the joint room was the total opposite.

    Aside from that cage enough to keep the emperor to move while crouching down, there was nothing around. No stands or furniture, shelves, or at least a table or a chair. It was as if it was designed to be a stage, while the person who would sit in this grandiose room could watch him for entertainment.

    It was cruel the more Aries looked at that cage whilst sitting on the wide bed.

    "Howбн" came out a shaking voice after minutes of pure silence, eyes still on that cage in the middle of the next room. "How did he be like that? Had he lost his mind?"

    "No." Aries slowly set her eyes back to Joaquin. He had his hands on the surface of the bed, recliningfortably.

    "He is what you think he is, Circe. It might be hard to believe it, but the emperor, my father, didn''t simply lose his mind and went out of touch with reality." He set his indifferent eyes on the cage ahead. "He turned into a monster who survives by drinking blood бк"

    The crown prince cocked his head back, eyes on her. "Human blood and flesh."

    "What?" she breathed out in disbelief.

    "To make the long story short, the emperor sought immortality." Joaquin shrugged and gazed back at the emperor kept in a cage. "Or rather, he was finding ways to revive the dead. To give him time, I generously gave what he wanted since I am his son and I want to make him happy."

    The side of his lips curled up in a twisted grin as he chuckled briefly. "Nowбн he doesn''t have to worry about the death of his favorite son. Nor does he have to worry about the state of affairs and he can just live forever." He then looked back at her once again.

    "Isn''t my retirement n for him better? He was old and incapable of ruling an empire anymore. I simply helped him," he added while Aries forced herself to just look back at him without showing too much of her emotions. The only thing she could show him was her surprise and her slight desire for enlightenment.

    Joaquin studied her face and sighed. He raised his hand and put all his weight on the other. He tucked her hair behind her ear affectionately.

    "My point here is, youбн will not have to be an empress dowager. You don''t need to wait for that long to achieve the crown." He smiled gently, caressing her cheek with his thumb. "Soon, you will be the empress of this great empire. The mother of the nation and someone who will birth the crown prince and our little princesses."

    Aries pursed her lips, showing mixed emotions regarding this.

    "Will you kill the emperor?" she asked.

    "When the timees, yes." He nodded without a second hesitation. "Once I crippled that rebel group and Ismael, we will be crowned together. We''ll get married too once more."<sub> </sub>

    "What?"

    "Our first wedding is arranged for political benefits, Circe. I want to marry you once again and make this union a mutual agreement between us, not between two empires." His smile stretched, looking at her in the eye sincerely. "Don''t you want that too, my love?"

    Her eyes softened, holding his hand and pressed her cheek against his palm. "Is this how you make me calm down? Because it was effective."

    "Is it?" he chuckled yfully. "But I am serious, Circe."

    Joaquin straightened his back and twist his upper body to face her. He reached for her other hand, squeezing it lightly, eyes searching for her.

    "I had never trusted nor did I ever love anyone as much as you. You mesmerized me and understood me. Although you often voiced out your disagreement with how I do things and don''t condone them, you still chose to understand me." He studied her eyes and didn''t see the slightest disgust from her, despite revealing what he was capable of. He caressed the corner of her eyes that were looking back at him with apparent intention.

    She might appear scared and rattled, but she looked at him the same way. That was all he wanted from people; understand him. He didn''t need anyone to condone his beliefs and ambition, but just to understand he had his reasons. From the emperor, from his brothers, from everyone. But they couldn''t give that simple understanding to him and only the crown princess was the only person who made him feel he was being seen without doing anything grand.

    Despite their disagreements in the past, the crown princess didn''t turn her back on him. It might be because she knew his downfall was also hers, but with her wits, she could have found other ways to survive.

    Joaquin cupped her face and simply looked at her in silence. His eyes softened with affection, but then a slight bitterness flickered across his eyes.

    ''If onlyбн you are her,'' he whispered in his head, looking at her face, which resembled ''that woman.'' ''I will give her everything. If only she believed in me for once and tried to understand my heartбн she will not have to go through that.''

    ''My Ariesбн'' His lips curled up as the person he was staring at suddenly changed into someone else. Or rather, that sophisticated makeup on her face was reced with a woman whose face wouldn''t touch even a residue of powder. Her golden locks slowly turned green.

    Circe, his wife, now appeared to look like the Aries when he firstid his eyes on her. Beautiful, radiant, and a little bit boyish. In his eyes, she was grinning coyly. A smile she would usually give to others, but never to him.

    "Shall we dye your hair green?" he suggested while her brows knitted, watching how he looked at her as if he was staring at another person. A gaze she was so familiar with.

    "Pardon?"

    Joaquin blinked ever so slowly and smiled. "Your hair," he said. "Let''s dye it green, Circe. Dye your hair green on our second wedding. It''s also better to put less powder on your face because I''m afraid it won''t be good for Bean''s health."

 Chapter 349 [Bonus Chapter]Take It Back

    "Let''s dye it green, Circe. Dye your hair green on our second wedding. It''s also better to put less powder on your face because I''m afraid it won''t be good for Bean''s health."

    Aries''s entire body shook when Bean''s nickname came from those lips and her brain just shut off. She never mentioned Bean''s name, but she was certain he heard her at least once or twice when she thought she was alone.

    Joaquin smiled and rested his forehead against hers, still cupping her face with both his hands.

    "I love you, my love," he expressed under his breath, eyes closed.

    ''Stopбн'' she whispered but failed to leave her mouth.

    "I will give you everything you want. For you and our childбн I will make you happy."

    ''I said stopбн''

    "I will clean Maganti for you. It will be a safe ce for you and Bean and our children. I had more ns for the both of us, my love. More nsбн for you, for our children, for our family."

    Aries breathed out as she felt something in her head snap after listening to all those words that only turned her stomach. She raised her hand, caressing his cor and then his neck with her fingertips.

    "Take it back," she whispered, watching him drew his head back. "Take it back, Joaquin."

    His brows furrowed. "What?"

    "Take it back!" this time, her voice thundered as she clutched his shoulder as tight as she could. Her eyes stung, ring daggers at him while grinding her teeth in anger.

    "Take it back!" she repeated and shook him aggressively. "Take it back! Take it back!"

    "Circe!"

    "Take it back!" she screamed at the top of her lungs and pounced on top of him. Her hands gripped his neck while he clutched her wrist, taken by surprise by her sudden aggression.

    "You don''t love me!" her voice shook as her nails dug into his neck. "Take it back! Stop saying that! Don''t say it again! Keep my child''s name out of your mouth!"

    His eyes dted at the sight of her, tightening his grip around her wrist. His mouth fell open while his face turned red from theck of oxygen. Yet, she continued to scream at his face, telling him to take everything he had said back.

    "Take it back! Take it back!" She kept yelling until he was able to push her off of him. Aries let out a loud "ah!" as she rolled over the bed and onto the floor. But the pain didn''t deter her from springing back up to attack him with just her brute force and emotion the second he stood up.

    "Circe! Calm down!" he held her wrists once more to stop her from throwing jabs, but it was as if she totally just lost it. Aries kept screaming her lungs out, biting his hand until it bled.<sub> </sub>

    A loud animal grunt came from the cage, but all she could see was red and all she could feel was anger. She continued biting his hand, unbothered by the blood in between her teeth, sinking her teeth deeper into his skin.

    "Ah!" Joaquin ground his teeth at the pain he tried to endure, pushing her back on instinct. With a strength of a trained man, Aries slumped on the floor once again. However, she was quick enough to snatch the sword clinging to his hips.

    As the loud metal sound resonated in the air, followed by a thud of hernding, Joaquin froze for a moment. All he could do was watch her lose her mind, holding the sword with trembling hands as she rose to her feet once more.

    "Take it backбн" she repeated with a shaking voice, pointing the sword at him as she took a step back. "Take it back, Joaquin."

    "Circe бк"

    "Don''t call me that!" she screamed until her throat scratched. "Don''t call me thatбн"

    He had his hands raised, nodding in understanding. "My love, calm down. I don''t understand why you''re acting like this, but we should talk about it calmly. I will listen to you."

    "Listen to me?" she snorted,ughing, while a tear rolled down her cheek. "Whyбн do I need to listen to you? Why? Joaquin? Did you listen to me when I said I feel unwell that night?"

    Joaquin froze as he looked at her with wide eyes. "What are youбн"

    "You didn''t! You forced yourself on me and I lost him. Myst family, my child." Her lips quivered, unable to control her emotions any longer. "You killed my family, my peopleбн you took away mynd and my child. Everything, Joaquinбн you took everything from me, and now, you want me to listen to your nonsense promation of love?"

    Aries shook her head and gulped the frustrating tension in her throat. "You love meбн? Me?!" sheughed maniacally.

    "Are you that stupid to forget this face, Joaquin?! Rightбн maybe if I do this бк" Aries slit her skirt with the sword until her thigh was showing. She continued to rip her bodice until a part of her bosom and stomach was revealed.

    "Remember now? You won''t forget this body you vited day and night, right?!" sheughed, barely blinking with the anger taking over her. "Are you still going to say you love me?! You will make me happy? And have a family with me?!"

    Her face crumpled as tears swam in her eyes. "I can''t even say those words to himбн" she huped as her vision blurred. "No matter how much I want to hear those from himбн he won''t say them because he knew it will hurt me. And yet youбн"

    "Why, Joaquin?! Tell me the truth! Why did you make my life miserable?!" Aries screamed once more while her emotion peaked. "Tell me the truth! Why did you do all that to me?!"

    Joaquin blinked in disbelief, hands trembling. "Ariesбн?" but the response he received was thunderous, "tell me the truth! Why?!"

    His lips trembled, looking at her desperate state to get the answer she had been seeking. "Becauseбн I love you," he breathed out because that was the truth and nothing but the truth.

    Her heart sank.

 Chapter 350 [Bonus Chapter]Dead

    "Becauseбн I love you."

    Her heart sank at his answer, tears flooding her face. She felt like all the strength that was left in her was drained with those mere three words: "I love you."

    She shook her head at a loss here. Not that she didn''t know his answer already. But she wanted another answer. She was hoping he would give her anything but those three painful words. Any reasoning was fine. ANY. Even if it was the most trivial thing, she would ept it. Just not those words.

    Not that reasoning again.

    Those words that were said to be wonderful and magicalбн felt like a curse to her.

    Her people fought against a formidable opponent because they loved her. Therefore, they all died. Inez pushed all the me on her and punished her mercilessly, and then told her she loved her. Carlos vited her because he said it was love at first sight.

    Now, Joaquin, the root of all these series of misfortunesбн was telling her the reason he put her through hell was out of love? For her? He loved her? She was hurting now because she loved her child and was taken away from her.

    Loveбн was nothing but a painful word for her.

    They weren''t magical.

    They were cursed words that continued to hurt her when it was uttered to her and even when it wasn''t spoken to her.

    Aries shook her head and lowered her eyes. The pain in her heart, the anger she bottled in, and everythingбн drove her to the corner. She couldn''t think anymore. She nced over her shoulder and her eyes caught the emperor inside the cage.

    She didn''t know what happened to him, but right not, she just simply doesn''t care anymore. What she only knew was that Joaquinбн wouldn''t fall that easily if he could make an army of monsters like that. Or maybe ruin the empire if he let those mindless monsters like the emperor run rampant in the capital.

    "I will not know," she whispered with a hoarse voice, setting her somber eyes back to him. "I will never know what will happen to the empire, Joaquin. Would it fall? Or were the gods so blind to side with someone like you and make this ce an even dreadful ce to exist? I wouldn''t know that."

    The side of her lips curled up subtly as her eyes softened. Her shoulder rxed, sizing him up from head to toe. She had lost it. Everything she did until nowбн went all down the drain because she couldn''t control her anger anymore.

    And yet, she didn''t regret everything, even this outburst.

    She had been fighting for years; went through the pits of hell and emerged from it. She met people who were too kind to her and showed her what life was about бк even though they see life with little value themselves.

    But Ariesбн was exhausted.

    She was too exhausted from fighting this man who was looking back at her. She was too exhausted, smiling while secretly gritting her teeth.

    Was it wrong to finally reach a breaking point? Aries was only human. But this exhaustion was something that wouldn''t just need some hours of rest.

    "You love me?" she asked weakly, staring back at Joaquin. He didn''t answer, hands raised, signaling her to put down the sword.<sub> </sub>

    "Aries, put it down, love. I бк I was wrong, alright? I know I did terrible things to you, but I will change! Hurt me, it''s fine. Put me through the same hell, and I won''tin. Just put it down." Joaquin took a cautious step forward, only to halt when she shook her head.

    "You will let me hurt you?" she asked and then tipped her head to the cage. "Then give your arm to him."

    "Whatбн?"

    "Come on. If you sacrifice just a limb for me, I might reconsider, Joaquin. If you can prove you truly want to change for the good, then let him take your arm." Her smile didn''t reach her eyes, waiting for his reaction, but nothing. Joaquin simply looked at her in disbelief, making her snort after a minute.

    "That''s what I thought." She rocked her head and chuckled with her lips closed. "You know, Joaquin. I know someone who can stab himself multiple times for me."

    She dragged the sword from the floor, leaving a long scratch, and held it up to caress the des carefully. Her eyes marveled at the polished metal that didn''t have the slightest trace of blood, despite that this sword was also the one that plunged into Davien''s throat.

    "He is a lunatic and the depths of his craziness are immeasurable. Perhaps I''m crazy too for falling for someone like him." She nced at him and smiled subtly. "Problem is, I never told him how much he means to me. Even when I tried to express my heart, I can''t. Those words... those simple three words you people can speak so easily would nevere out of my mouth. And whenever someone tells those words to me? I feel like they were simply cutting my ears."

    Aries gazed back at the polished des, mirroring half of her face. Her eyes softened at the thought of Abel, the man who deserved much more than someone like her.

    "He epted me as a whole, made me feel my value is the same regardless of how disgusting this body was, and showed me I''m bigger than my past. He doesn''t even know thatst part, though." She chuckled, imagining that fatal beauty, looking back at her from that sword before it glinted and reced it with her own reflection. "He asked for my hand and I said yes. I know our time together is fleeting since I want to go to Rikhill and he had obligations and people who rely on him."

    "But I was looking forward to our wedding," she whispered with deep regret in her voice while tears formed in the corner of her eyes. "I want to walk down the aisle with him waiting for me at the altar. It would be nice to hear him speak his marriage vows before sealing it with a kiss. He would surely kiss me passionately until Sir Conan throws a tantrum and my brother unsheathed his sword, only for the duke to block his sabre. Or maybeбн we will make out right there and then. It''s up to the guest and the priest if they want to stay and watch us бк I don''t care. It would be fun."

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips as she felt rather at peace, thinking about how her wedding with Abel would turn out. But bitterness still filled her eyes as she shifted her attention to Joaquin.

    "I feel sorry for him." Her lips trembled once again. "He shouldn''t have allowed me to upy a piece of his heart. For I am selfish and broken and impatient too. I hope he never forgives me."

    Her vision blurred as she raised her sword at the side of her neck, eyes at Joaquin''s dted eyes. "You love me? Then, I guess the only thing that I can actually hurt you is killing myself, right?" Aries chuckled. She didn''t even know how many hours the crown prince would grieve for her, but that didn''t matter. She already made up her mind, and nothing ever mattered to her now.

    After all, only the worse would happen to her once she walk out of this door alive. She had spoiled her n, and the damages were irreparable.

    ''I''m sorry, Abel,'' she whispered in her heart.

    "Aries, no, no, no, NO!" Joaquin panicked as he took steps forward, but s, she only smiled at him and held his gaze before slicing her neck down to her throat. He stopped as blood spurted out from her and her body copsed with a thud. The sword ng a few times on the floor and the silence that came after echoed.

    All he could do was stare at her body on the floor, lying face first. It didn''t take long when blood spread out underneath her body until it reached his foot.

    "Noбн" Joaquin copsed to his knees, unable to move anymore. All he heard was silence and then the frantic growls from the emperor by the scent of blood that pervaded the air.

    She''s dead.

 Chapter 351 Let Me Hear You Play The Piano

    Aries knew all along she might die. It may not be in the hands of Joaquin, but she was also a danger to herself. She lived for the present and for revenge. The deep hatred she had for the royalty of the Maganti was what fueled her to survive.

    Day by day, even during her sleep, they upied her. They were the ones who pumped her chest so her heart could continue beating. Their rotten souls which pervaded the air were her oxygen, and their insufferable existence gave her purpose. Honestly, she didn''t know what she would do if they all went down.

    She lived in the present, but in the future? All she could see was darkness. She felt empty inside, unable to look forward to what life had in store for her. Because at the end of the day, the reason she lived today was for vengeance, and once she seeded, there was nothing left for her.

    Aries would go back to scratch like a painter with a nk canvass and no paint or a poet who had run out of ink. The reason the question: what would happen next once this was over? Was like a giant mystery to her. Return to Haimirich? And then, what? Rikhill? What would she do there? Was she even weed to thatnd? How about Abel and her? They might be content now but until when? The list goes on.

    It was tiring. It drained her.

    She had always been tired, and she knew that, but Aries chose not to address it. Instead, she would tell herself ''not now'' and let the future worry about its own worries. For now, she had to focus on what was going on, and that kept her going day by day.

    However, hearing her child''s name being uttered from those damned lips, while Joaquin was telling her to change her hair color to a shade he was familiar with, brought her brain to a shut off for a moment. He, Joaquin, was basically telling her he wanted to marry her бк not Circe, but the woman in his head.

    The empress he wanted wasn''t Circe, but Aries.

    The woman he wanted to start a family with was Aries, not Circe.

    And the woman he was staring at at that moment was Aries.

    All along, it had always been Aries. Even if he knew himself Circe and Aries were different, he wished Circe was just Aries even when their personality was poles apart.

    If Circe wasn''t Ariesбн then he would make her Aries. He would start by changing her appearance, and then it would continue with the way she talked, the way she moves, and her likes and dislikes until she would be the woman he longed for. It hadn''t happened yet, but Aries already knew how it would go.

    He would make her live that sort of life once again. He would force her to be that version of Aries she loathed more than the Imperials.

    How sick was that?

    Joaquin might seed or fail in his ns with all the people lurking in the dark. However, just the sheer thought Joaquin was still delusional regarding this matter and wished to recreate the most haunting and darkest time of her life made her sick to her stomach.

    How dare he?<sub> </sub>

    How dare he consider those times as the most beautiful time of his life when they were the ones she sincerely wanted to erase in her head? How dare he think Bean was someone he could rece so easily? That his death was still a mere ident? Just what would it take him to at least take responsibility for her child''s death?

    If only he could acknowledge he killed her baby and say sorryбн maybe it would be less painful. But she wouldn''t know that, since Joaquin would never acknowledge it.

    And he made it clear to her when he mentioned Bean.

    "Let''s dye it green, Circe. Dye your hair green on our second wedding. It''s also better to put less powder on your face because I''m afraid it won''t be good for Bean''s health." Joaquin smiled and rested his forehead against hers, still cupping her face with both his hands. "I love you, my love."

    ''Stopбн''

    "I will give you everything you want. For you and our childбн I will make you happy," he continued. "I will clean Maganti for you. It will be a safe ce for you and Bean and our children. I had more ns for the both of us, my love. More nsбн for you, for our children, for our family."

    ''Stopбн'' she whispered in her head once again as she felt his neck carefully. ''бн stop it, Aries. You know what will happen if you snap now. Not now, Aries. Not now.''

    It would be better if she just snapped now, like how she imagined herself doing. She would be at peace if she went on a series of outbursts, confessing everything, and confronting the crown prince before watching him with pleasure while she kill herself.

    That would be a sight to behold. Watch Joaquin lose the woman he so loved and cherished. It would be fun to see him realize she would rather die than choose him. Butбн there was also a man, who was probably too busy preparing for his wedding and see himself standing at the altar while waiting for her.

    ? Knowing Abel, he would stand at the altar for years until shees. Aries couldn''t just jilt him after finally saying ''yes'' to his habitual marriage proposal.

    That manбн that crazy man would wait for her even if he heard she was dead. He would stay there in his white formal suit, eyes on the shut doors of the chapel, despite knowing she was already buried six feet under. And once he finally moved from that altar, it wouldn''t be an exaggeration if he ordered someone to excavate her grave only to lie in her coffin while hugging her bones.

    What crazy decisions Abel woulde up with once she was gone worried her, knowing his world would stop with her death.

    "Alright." Aries smiled as Joaquin retracted his forehead from hers. She raised her hand and cupped his cheek, staring at the man she loathed until his appearance changed to the only person who mattered to her.

    "Let''s do that," she whispered the words she failed to confess in ''his'' presence. "I would be very happy to start anew with youбн"

    ''бн Abel. Once this was over, let me hear you y the piano as promised.''

 Chapter 352 Already A Monster Clad In Human Skin

    "I would be very happy to start anew with you."

    Aries and Joaquin stared at each other with nothing but affection meant for another. When she blinked, she had already calmed down and shifted her eyes to the cage in the other part of the room.

    "Soбн" Her eyes once again showed rity as she studied the emperor''s disheveled and bloody figure. "What is he?"

    "A monster?" he shrugged and cast her a knowing look, only to see her indifferent side-eye.

    "What sort of monster is he?" she asked with a firmer voice, eyes at the growling emperor. She quirked a brow when he answered;

    "A failed morphing."

    "Morphing?"

    Joaquin smacked his lips, reclining with his hands on the mattress. "Have you heard of vampires, Circe?"

    "Creatures who cannot walk under the sun but prowl in the night? Creatures, who survive by drinking human blood?"

    "That''s right." He rocked his head, smirking in satisfaction. "That''s the blood running through him."

    Aries set her eyes back to the cage when Joaquin pointed at it with his chin. He continued.

    "Vampires drink human blood бк even animal blood will sufficeбн if they had no choice. But humansбн if they drank a vampire''s blood, it can result in that," he exined in a matter-of-factly tone. "It''splicated, but to put it simply, it''s all about a match."

    "A match?"

    "Compatibility of blood, my love." Joaquin cocked his head to her, casually revealing his biggest secret.

    "And if a human drank a vampire''s blood, that ispatible?"

    The crown prince hummed a long tune and took a moment to reply. He simply stared at his father, narrowing his eyes, but didn''t hide the triumphant glint that shed across them.

    "Immortality," came out in an ambitious voice. "Strength that surpassed even the most skilled and trained humans. Speed that is faster than a galloping horse. Youth. There were endless possibilities, Circe."

    Joaquin smirked and shifted his devious eyes on her. "My hard work will soon bear to fruition, Circe."

    Aries gulped as she studied him in silence. Immortality? Strength? Speed? Youth? Hard work? She narrowed her eyes at him.<sub> </sub>

    "Are you sayingбн" she trailed off when his lips stretched even wider. "You want to morph?"

    "Of course. Who wants to die, Circe?" Heughed with lips closed, sitting upright. "The list of people who oppose me is long. A day isn''t enough to read all their names. In a few decades, I will be just like him: old, weak, and dying. I won''t allow that."

    "I''d rather sell my soul to the devil and sacrifice my humanity than reach that point," he added without a second hesitation, tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear. "Once I seeded, I will do everything I can so you gain immortality too, my love. We''ll be together forever and rule the world. I will be the greatest emperor, just as you wish. Don''t you want that?"

    Her breathing grew short and heavy, but she smiled. Yet, behind that smile was great trepidation. She had always known all along Joaquin was sick to the bone, but this revtion was a whole kind of crazy. No wonder he needed to enter illegal businesses so he could fund this project.

    Aries asked more questions, which Joaquin answered honestly and casually. He told her that the only person who knew this secret was the fifth prince Javier. But now, because he trusted the crown princess and was willing to make her his empress, Joaquin had no reason to keep her in the dark.

    They stayed in the emperor''s room for a long time, talking about the creatures living in this world she was unaware of. The things she once believed as mere myths to scare the children were now being told as actual stories and events.

    "I''ve met a few of them," imed Joaquin while she looked at him earnestly. "During thest world summit. It''s not real that they can''t walk under the sun. Matter of fact, they blended with us. They looked like what most humans would appear, but stronger, faster, and younger despite existing for centuries. There were ces in this world under their governance and their existence wasn''t a secret but knowledge to be dread of."

    "But there were sovereigns reigned by humans who chose to keep their existence as nothing but myths бк just like how the emperor of the Maganti and some kingdom does." Joaquin looked at her and humored. "I''ve met the emperor of Haimirich in the world summit. He''s not human."

    p "What?" For a moment, her heart stopped beating before heughed out loud.</anda>

    "I''m kidding, Circe. The emperor of Haimirich is human." He shook his head, seeing the dread that instantly dominated her face. "Although he''s way worse than a monster with intellect. But well, I sort of owe him because if not for him, I wouldn''t be able to meet you."

    Her lips quivered as she smiled back at him. "I hate him, but I can''t hate him enough since I share the same sentiments. However, that is not a good joke, Joaquin." She clicked her tongue as she set her eyes back to the cage while Joaquinughed.

    "My brother is in Haimirich and he always has confrontations with the monarch."

    "Circe. Even if what I said isn''t a joke, do you think your brother wouldn''t know about this?" he asked in a knowing tone, waiting for her to look back at him. "Marquess Vandran is an influential man and the backbone of the aristocratic faction. I''m a crown prince, who had seen men in power, my love. Those kinds of men knew more than anyone. They might keep their mouth shut for a reason, but never underestimate a man who is involved with the royal court."

    Joaquin winked at her but didn''t find it suspicious she didn''t know. After all, his wife was a sheltered princess of the Vandran. Even if she was capable and wise, there were just things she wouldn''t know, especially if she wasn''t involved in court matters.

    "Now that you understand the situationбн" he leaned his face forward to look at her up close. "Do you still want me?"

    Aries remained silent before a shallow breath slipped past her lips. "I won''t deny this is something I didn''t expect. My body is still in great shock, Joaquin. Howeverбн" the side of her lips curled up.

    "бн this is not enough to stop me from my ambition. After all, I''m already a monster d in human skin."

 Chapter 353 Are YouтАж Really Human?

    "Don''t disturb me," Aries muttered to the maids following her before closing the doors of her chambers. Joaquin upied her entire morning, and after their visit to the emperor, she returned to her quarters to rest.

    Standing behind the door, Aries dragged her feet to the nearest stand. Her trembling hand reached for it to assist herself, almost losing her energy as coldness seeped deep into her bones. The extreme trepidation and fear she hid in front of Joaquin were akin to a bucket of ice now sshed down on her.

    "Hahбн" she breathed out and closed her eyes, unable to close her gaping mouth at the haunting thought of the emperor. Not just that, but the revtions she sought from Joaquin never crossed her head.

    Aries thought of the myriad of other secrets Joaquin had on his sleeve and hid from everyone. It would make more sense if Joaquin had built a secret army under the fifth prince''smand. But immortality? Eternal life?

    "Hahбн" She clutched her chest, feeling her heart pound against her chest. Her breathing grew heavier, sweats breaking out on her back and forehead. Herplexion grew paler with every passing second, rattled to the core.

    "That damnбн devilбн" came out through her gritted teeth, disgusted at Joaquin''s delusion.

    That man didn''t want to be just an emperor. Joaquin''s ambition was more than that. He wanted to be a god.

    Aries felt like she was driven to the corner once again with this revtionid on the table. It messed with her head, tiring her brain to think of another way to drag him down. ording to Joaquin, his project for immortality was near to fruition because he found a good match. Javier would have to test it first to make sure Joaquin could drink it without morphing into a mindless monster.

    It would still take a lot of risk for Joaquin, even if they test it out multiple times. But his chances would increase, at least.

    "Ah!" her knees gave way as she slowly fell to the floor, gasping for air. She clutched her skirt in fear, trying to clear her clouded head so she could think straight.

    "You can''t lose right now, Aries." She shook her head, eyes on the floor. "You have to calm down first."

    She narrowed her eyes when her vision zoomed in and out once again. She bit her lip until it bled to keep herself conscious. This was sickening. Surely, it was better if she just blew up just as how she imagined it. Aries wouldn''t have to stress over this if she simply slit her throat.

    Everything would be over if that was what she did. Howeverбн she couldn''t leave Abel бк not yet.

    "You will still listen to how he ys the piano," she told herself under her breath. "He will surely want to hear what you think about it. And you still have to tell him those hands are beautifulбн"

    Aries remained silent while she calm her breathing. The thought of Abel subsided her fear, knowing she couldn''t just lose her mind now. People were in danger. Although Abel, Conan, Isaiah, and Dexter were skilled men, she couldn''t help but get worried about them, especially if Joaquin''s exnation about drinking a vampire''s blood was real.

    No matter how skilled those four were, they would be no match against Joaquin.

    Suddenly, her brows furrowed the more she thought about those four, especially Abel.

    "Immortalityбн" she whispered. "Youthбн survives and takes pleasure in human bloodбн."<sub> </sub>

    For a moment, Aries froze, and her heart thudded against her chest. Now that she thought about it, somehowбн she recalled every <strong>''nonsense''</strong> she would hear from Abel and then back when she was in Haimirich.

    "Older than your ancestorбн" she repeated the words Abel usually told her and what Conan mentioned in passing. In a sh, everything that had happened in Haimirich and until now rewound in her head, leaving her brain in a nk state.

    <strong>''I want you in my veinsбн''</strong>

    <strong>''I never had a child.''</strong>

    <strong>''My father is me, my grandfather is me, my ancestor is me, my son is me and his sons will also be meбн''</strong>

    <strong>Youth.</strong>

    Aries swallowed a mouthful of saliva and her cold blood just totally froze. Until now, she had believed Abel''s jokes and ims were simply a product of his wild imagination. But the more she thought about it, with Joaquin''s confession, a sense of dread shivered down her spine.

    "He saidбн he returned to Haimirich and came here because he missed meбн" she recalled Abel''s exnation, which he took back because she told him to. She believed Abel didn''t go back to Haimirich because it was impossible to go back and forth from Maganti to Haimirich in just a few days. But something crossed her head.

    <strong>Speed.</strong>

    And then Aries remembered Abel''s injuries that seemed to always heal quickly. It was almost impossible. Although she never saw it with her own two eyes, Abel never бк as in, never бк whined about his injuries. The stab wounds he inflicted upon himself that night he thought Aries left were enough to make him bleed out. She thought they treated it quickly, so he didn''t reach the critical stages.

    But now that she thought about it, questions she tossed at the back of her head resurfaced in her mind. Whyбн did everyone in Haimirich бк especially Conan and Isaiah бк let Abel hurt himself? No, that wasn''t the real question. But how could they let the emperor walk around with such injuries, knowing it could kill the sovereign?

    "Noбн" she whispered, wide-eyed. Aries shook her head mildly and hugged her knees at the dread embracing her. "Noбн"

    On top of the dread about Joaquin''s ambition to be a god, Aries started questioning everything about what she knew and what she didn''t know. And the more she did, it felt like everything was simply puzzle pieces put wrongly in a ce, but now she was getting a proper image of the bigger picture.

    Even though Joaquin told her the emperor of Haimirich was human, she couldn''t help but question it. After all, if Joaquin met the real Abel during the world summit, then he would surely recognize him Baron Albe.

    Aries sat on the floor for hours with nk eyes. "Abelбн" she whispered with quivering lips.

    "Are youбн really human?"

 Chapter 354 Make Him Talk

    "You don''t know what you are talking aboutбн" Aries whispered the words Abel would sometimes tell her, lowering her eyes. "He was rightбн I didn''t know a thing because he never told me." бк or rather, he would always tell them in a joking manner.

    What Abel was was still the biggest mystery. He could be human. Aries''s brain was designed to give her logical answers and arguments toprehend the things that were beyondprehension.

    After sitting on the floor for hours, she had already answered most questions she was looking for.

    Why Abel could heal fast? Haimirich was a ce where medicines were advanced.

    How could he travel that quick? Perhaps he didn''t really go back and forth and he just couldn''t bear to return to Haimirich, knowing she was in the devil''s den.

    Howe he looked like the previous emperors? The royal family of the Haimirich Empireбн was possible that their genes were that strong, so they all resembled.

    In other words, Aries simply went back to all the exnations she came up with her head the first time.

    She hugged her knees. Her legs were almost numbed sitting for hours on the cold floor until her brain could no longer work. But she managed, lowering her head until her chin was resting on her knees.

    Immortality. Youth. Abilities that surpassed humanprehension.

    This was quite a revtion to handle in a single day. Aries wouldn''t be in this situation if it was just Joaquin. But the sheer thought of the emperor of Haimirich wasn''t really human.

    "What should I do?" her shoulders trembled while tightening her embrace. "I don''t know anymore."

    Aries buried her face in her knees and remained silent. She shunned all unnecessary thoughts, leaving her head nk, hoping she would forget about them for a moment. But she couldn''t. These monsters, which she knew were myths, already made themselves known to her as real. It wasn''t just knowledge for short-term memory.

    It already touched a part of her brain she never knew existed and now she couldn''t unheard of this anymore.

    Aries raised her eyes over her knees. Her surrounding had already grown dark and not a single candbra was lit. The servants were afraid to bother her, as she already made it clear she wanted to have some time alone.

    So as the night fell, her room grew darker while she sat in the dark without moving an inch from her position. She stared at the floor, watching the light filtering through the window disappear until there was just the faint light from the moon.

    "Does it really matter?" her muffled voice broke the prolonged silence. "Aries? Does it really matter now?"

    Her eyes were filled with bitterness, clutching her skirt. "It doesn''t matter now, Aries. There''s no point wallowing in here when things aren''t confirmed yet. You should focus on the things at hand."

    She once again hid her face in her bent knees, mumbling the same things over and over.

    "This is not how you prolong this situation," she told herself. "You can''t keep them all alive that long until you are ready to move forward from this part of your life."

    One thing Aries was good at was convincing herself with a mix of facts and denial. In her head, since she didn''t have clear answers to what Abel was, she couldn''t dwell on it that long. Knowing herself, it was only her way to prolong her stay in the Maganti Empire until she had decided on her next move once Joaquin had fallen.

    "But his fall proved to be harder nowбн" she whispered and pursed her lips, keeping all the Maganti matters on top of her priority while tucking Abel''s matter to a ce where she wouldn''t be able to touch for now. "His project is already in thest phase before it wille to fruition."

    Aries straightened her back slowly and breathed out sharply. "He can''tбн" she shook her head, nted her fist on the floor, and pushed herself up.<sub> </sub>

    Her knees still felt wobbly, reaching for the stand and carrying the heaviness of her body and heart. She was gasping already when she was standing on her feet, closing her eyes to rest them for a bit. When Aries reopened them, they glinted as her brain focused on the matters at hand.

    Roman.

    "He''s still thereбн" she whispered. "Joaquin will make him talk."

    Her heart thudded as if her body and mind felt like an engine starting up once again as she recalled what Joaquin told her before parting ways with her. Apparently, Joaquinбн had sent people to follow Roman when he disappeared during the hunting season.

    But because Roman was fast, the people Joaquin sent to follow Roman lost the seventh prince. However, one thing was certain. Joaquin knew whichnd the seventh prince went to, and with just that information, it was easy for the crown prince to get what he wanted.

    After all, Joaquin had already convinced himself the fire in the eighth quarter was Roman''s doing so Violet could run away. And to make Roman talk, Joaquin would get his hands on Violet no matter what.

    Yes. No matter what.

    "That twisted lunatic," she whispered, gritting her teeth. "I''ll kill him before he can ever seed."

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ Inner Pce: Maximum Penitentiary ]</strong>

    Roman was lying on hay straws while coughing out blood in his cell. His clothes ripped, oozing with blood, coloring the thin fabric on him to fight the cold with red. Each time the light from the torch outside the bars hit his mangled face, he would shut his swollen eye.

    Joaquin had a fun timest night with him, beating him with a brass knuckle to quench his anger. Knowing the crown prince, this was simply the mildest torture apart from the hot iron pressed on his skin. But despite the wounds and the hell he went throughst night, Roman had only one thing in mind.

    Violet.

    ''I''m sorryбн Your Highnessбн'' he whispered in his head. Only Violet was the one who was keeping him conscious. ''It seems I can''t keep my promise.''

    His swollen eye teared up, thinking of Violet''s smile before he parted ways with her. He wasn''t scared of what would happen to him, but he was worried about her since Joaquin mentioned her name and death. The crown prince was suspicious about her death and Violet would be in danger if Joaquin figured out she was still alive.

    ''Ismaelбн you better keep your promise.''

    "He will kill her." Suddenly, Roman heard a familiar voice of a woman. He moved his eye down to his feet, trying to see through past the metal bars.

    There, in the cell in front of him where there was not a single torch was lit, kept a woman. He couldn''t see her properly with his swollen and blurry vision, but he could see her figure sitting down in her cell, facing him.

    "Inez?" came out a grunt as he dragged himself to the corner with great difficulty.

    "Violet." Unlike Roman, Inez could see her brother clearly. "If she''s alive, Joaquin will kill her. Even if you kill yourself now or confess, he will still kill herбн and those poor, innocent, and pathetic children."

 Chapter 355 [Bonus Chapter]Crazy

    "If she''s alive, Joaquin will kill her. Even if you kill yourself now or confess, he will still kill herбн and those poor, innocent, and pathetic children."

    Roman huffed through his gritted teeth when his back made contact with the concrete wall. Gasping for air with short and deep breaths, he gazed at the person held in the cell in front of him.

    "Isn''t it fun, brother?" Inezughed, her brother almost unrecognizable as blood covered that ugly scar across his eye. "The man whom most knights sought to be and the respectable princess are now here. Look at us. I guess this was what they call family since we''re sticking together."

    The seventh prince snorted. Even when he couldn''t see the ninth princess, he could tell the ridicule in her voice.

    "Several days ago, your men dragged me in here. Some of them even had fun with me; they don''t know how to fuck, by the way," she continued with a brief chuckle. "They saidбн that is an order from the crown prince to set his sister straight. As if anyone will believe that. He simply wants me to lose my mind, isn''t it?"

    "As if an insane person will still lose her mind." Inezughed louder with the thought, shaking her head mildly. "He could''ve kept me in a better quarter, though. Compare to the whores in those brothels, I should be considered as high-quality."

    Inez tilted her head to the side. "It''s sad, right? Brother, don''t you pity me? Why don''t you shed a tear for me?" Her brows rose before another wave of chuckle slipped past her lips.

    "Right. You barely kept your one eye, and it is swollen at that. It''s alright, I understand your situation."

    "Are you having fun with what you''re seeing?"

    "Of course!" her reply was quick and rather joyful. "Who wouldn''t be joyful with somepany, brother? Especially now that I see the state you are in, it makes me feel lucky. At the very least, the only punishment I got is reached orgasm against my will. What about you? From what I see itбн you poor thing. My regrs hadn''t visited me sincest night. Now that makes sense."

    Inez then suddenly lurched forward and held the metal bars. "How did they die? Were their necks slit open? Perhaps lost their limbs? Or maybe they were stabbed multiple times until their intestines left their stomach?" she grinned eagerly.

    "Tell me, Rome. How did those fuckers die?"

    Roman exhaled deeply and shook his head. Although his men were men who pledged to serve the country and bring peace and order, he couldn''t control them in everything they do. What they did to Inez was probably true, and he didn''t condone it. However, this ce was literally hell.

    "You got what you deserved, Inez," he breathed out. "That is karma." бк after all, Inez had ordered her people the same orders for those she disliked. Countless women suffered because of her; Violet nearly fell for Inez''s antics, too. Roman didn''t even feel sorry for her, assuming she had a taste of her own medicine.

    "Hah!" she snorted. "And you too, Rome. You got what you deserved. I mean, you could''ve stayed in Joaquin''s good graces. But here you are, beaten ck and blue, and barely breathing. Do you think he will stop with just that?"

    Inez clicked her tongue continuously. "No, no, brother. Once you rested enough, they will drag you outside and break more of your bones. It''ll be a continuous cycle. How did I know? Well, I am one of them. Therefore, I sort of understand how their sick mind works."<sub> </sub>

    Romanughed weakly but decided not to talk to her. Although her voice was echoing and sounded like a maniac, he didn''t mind the noise. It gave him a headache, but this headache was making him forget his other pain.

    "Do you want to hear what I think Joaquin will do? Hmm?" Inez blinked almost innocently, eyes in the cell across from her. "Well, since you are initially the crown prince''s henchman, there was information he would want from you. For example, who are the people you told his secrets about and the sort? He can just kill you, but it''s more efficient to know his enemies so he can deal with them ordingly."

    She happily exined her thoughts about it. "Of course, he knew you wouldn''t talk. Just like how much you know Joaquin, it''s the same for you. He knows you too well, Rome. So, the crown prince knows you won''t talk that easily, even if he tortures you to death."

    "Thereforeбн" her eyelids drooped until they were partially closed while the side of her lips curled up. "бн he will have to find people that can make you talk. Just like what I said, if Violet is alive, you, my dearest brother, will have to see her really die."

    Inezughed, seeing the anger behind that swollen eye at her taunting. "Knowing how creative Joaquin was, he might fuck her right in front of you. Or maybe, if he was a little busy, he will let others do it right in front of you. Oh, Rome. You have to prepare your ears with her screams while men feast on her body and watch how Joaquin kills her from the inside as he beheads her children in front of her."

    "And you will be there, Rome. You will watch everything, but no matter what you do, you can do nothing but begбн" She shook her head. "бн but no one will listen. Hahбн haha hahaha!"

    Roman''s expression grew darker, but he didn''t argue with her. What Inez said wasn''t impossible to happen. But he was hopeful Ismael was smart enough to keep Violet safe. It didn''t matter to Roman if he would die now, because all that mattered to him was for Violet to live peacefully with her children.

    While Inez''sughter echoed in the dungeon where the two were kept, footsteps were heard. Herughter slowly subsided as the footsteps grew louder until Inez could no longerugh. She looked up and her eyes dted at the person standing between the ninth princess and the seventh prince''s cells.

    "Elleбн" her voice was shaky, unlike her tone moments ago.

    "I was worried about you for nothing, but it seemed you''re having a fun time here, Inez." Aries pulled down the hood of her brown cloak and smirked at her. "Good for you."

    When she turned her back against Inez and faced Roman, the seventh prince didn''t have a strong reaction. Partly because he was too weak to react and partly because the crown princess''s presence was to be expected. The only thing that Roman was uncertain about was Aries''s reasoning foring in here.

    "What does Joaquin want now for sending you hereбн?" he wondered, staring at her coldly, waiting for any aggravating remarks, which Aries happily oblige.

    Aries smiled. "His Royal Highness sent out an order, seventh brother." She took a step forward to take a closer look at the man inside the cell.

    "The order is simple. Drag Violet to this ce." She watched Roman''s swollen eye dte slightly after hearing the news she was carrying. "They were already there, Your Highness, the seventh prince. I guess we should be looking forward to a reunion, huh?"

 Chapter 356 [Bonus Chapter]Star-Crossed Lovers

    "They were already there, Your Highness, the seventh prince. I guess we should be looking forward to a reunion, huh?"

    "Whatбн" Roman ground his teeth, and unlike earlier, he found the strength to crawl with his beaten body to the metal bars. He clung onto it, carrying his weight, but failed to stand up.

    "What did you say?" he asked, along with his deep exhale, ignoring the saliva and blood that went out of his mouth.

    Aries''s eyes were cold as she looked down at him. This man had always carried himself with pride and dignity, but now he just looked desperate and pathetic. But she couldn''t judge him, especially because he cherished Violet. Everyone would look pathetic in his situation.

    "Joaquin nted people to follow you during the hunting season." Aries simply shrugged. "You can guess what happens even if they lost you. You know my husband."

    "Hahбн" Roman huffed as his blood ran cold and this coldness went from the top of his scalp to the tip of his toe. Violet''s smile crossed his head and her children yed happily in the vineyard as the image he hadst seen shattered like ss. His lips quivered and so was his entire body, sliding slowly until he could barely hold the metal bars.

    "Elle." While Roman was breaking down silently, Inez kept her eager eyes at Aries''s back. She was holding the metal bars, tucking her hair behind her ear from time to time. When Aries turned her head around, she sported a beautiful smile.

    "Are you alright now? Hmm?" she asked. "Does your wound still hurt? I''m so d to see you."

    Aries quirked a brow and turned on her heel. Inez''s lips stretched even wider when Aries squatted down to look at her at eye level.

    "I am alright now," she replied and smile gently. "And you? How have you been here?"

    "Iбн Iбн" Aries raised her brows while waiting for Inez to finish her answer. "I missed you."

    Aries nodded in satisfaction. She studied Inez and, with just one look, one could tell how the ninth princess had fallen. Thetter''s hair was all over the ce, and her body was dirty. Inez smelled, too. It reminded her of the past, but this time, their roles were reversed.

    "Hand?" she opened her palm and drew it closer to the cell. "Put your hand on mine like how dogs do it."

    Inez stared at Aries for a moment before her eyes fell on her open palm. She gulped a mouthful of saliva and then extended her trembling hand until a part of her fingers was on top of Aries''s palm.

    "Good girl." Pleased, Aries nodded. "Now, bark for me."

    "Huhбн?"

    "Bark, Your Highness. Arf бк like that." Aries giggled yfully, mimicking how Inez did it to her in the past. "Come on. Don''t be shy. Do it for me."

    The ninth princess''s eyes shook at this request. "Elleбн are youбн are you still angry with me?" Her lips quivered, asking the most trivial questions. And yet, these questions and the answers were what mattered to her.

    "We''re even now, isn''t it? What they did to you... they did it to me, too. Joaquin put me through the same hell, Elle. I understand you now." Inez''s voice cracked as she had endured all the punishment because she knew Aries went through all that. "I am now suffering, Elle. They took everything from me, but I let it because I love you and I want you to forgive me."

    "So we can start over?" Aries asked, and Inez nodded shamelessly. "Aww, my dearest ninth princess."

    Her eyes softened as she sped Inez''s fingers gently. She watched Inez''s hopeful look with teary eyes.

    "Aren''t you the sweetest, ninth princess?" Aries lowered her head and nted a peck on the back of Inez''s dirty fingers. Yet, she didn''t care as she rested her cheek against it, eyes on the ninth princess.

    "Elle."

    "Did you miss me, Inez?"

    "Of course. More than anything."

    "Even when I was the one who gave out the order that all your henchmen would be hanged?"<sub> </sub>

    Inez''s breath hitched, but staring at the gentleness in the crown princess''s eyes, her heart warmed up. "Yes."

    "Oh, dear. What am I going to do with you?" Aries sighed and frowned. "Joaquin is watching my movements closely. I knew what I did back there бк"

    "It''s not your fault." Inez shook her head and smiled. "I understand why you did what you did. It''s because you feel guilty and think I will feel betrayed if I knew the truth, right? Honestly, I was also angry at first, but then I realized you will not know my sincerity if I don''t prove it to you."

    "бн" Aries was rendered speechless, tilting her head from one side to the other. She didn''t n to indulge with her, but Inez was a great distraction from the things now in her head. Still, she couldn''t quite understand how Inez came up with this crazy realization. But then again, it seemed Inez was just desperate and standing on the line of insanity. Just one light push and she would go mad.

    Aries understood that. She had been there.

    But just as Aries''s lips parted, she nced over her shoulder when Roman raised a question.

    "What are you maniacs talking about?" his voice was shaky, darting his eyes between the two.

    Aries''s expression was dead. "We''re talking about love, Your Highness. Can''t you see? We''re star-crossed lovers." She shrugged nonchntly and then smiled at Inez.

    "Right?"

    "Let''s run away from here, Elle." Inez breathed out and tugged Aries''s hand. "Once I get out of hereбн but I don''t know if I will even бк"

    "Shh." Aries shook her head sideways and smiled. "I am already doing whatever I can to get you out of here. Will you trust me? Inez?"

    Inez blushed when Aries finally called her name. "Really?"

    "Really." Aries nodded reassuringly. "Will you wait for me?"

    "Will youe back?"

    "Of course."

    "When?"

    "When I can." Inez frowned at Aries''s reply. "Inezбн you know my situation. My husband is a crazy bastard. I need to be careful if I want to live."

    Inez looked at her with sadness. How could she force the crown princess to visit her regrly when it would only put Aries in danger?

    "For nowбн stay here, alright? I''ll visit you once again if I can." Aries patted Inez''s hands lightly and shed her a relieved smile. Just then, Aries raised a finger and slipped her hand inside her cloak. When she took it out, she was already holding a small piece of parchment.

    "Take this so you don''t feel lonely." Aries slipped the small piece of paper into Inez''s fingers and nodded. "This will make you feel I''m with you, always."

    "Elleбн" Inez retracted her hand while holding the paper. She inhaled it and smiled gently; it was the same scent as Aries,vender. "Thank you."

    "You''re wee." Aries nodded before she held her thighs and pushed herself up. As soon as she turned around and faced Roman, she smirked. She didn''t even hide her wicked expression from the seventh prince as she perked her chin.

    "Can you stand?" she asked, followed by the sound of jiggling keys. "Because I will need your strength to get out of here."

    Aries smiled as she slipped the key inside the lock and opened it, letting its creak echo.

    "Come on, Roman. Don''t fail Violet like that."

 Chapter 357 Curse You

    "What are youбн ugh!" Roman grunted when Aries held his shoulders to lift him up. Thetter clicked her tongue in irritation when Roman copsed on the concrete floor, just when she lifted him slightly.

    "Get up, Rome. We don''t have time." Aries''s voice sounded solid as she held his arm and hooked it over her shoulder. "You need to endure the pain if you want to save Violet."

    Roman looked at her, studying her for a moment before clinging to the metal bars. He didn''t know why the crown princess was helping him, but he needed to go out of this ce. It might be impossible to reach Violet now, but he could do something else if he was outside instead of staying in this damn cell.

    "Ughбн" Aries ground her teeth, carrying a grown man''s weight. "Damn itбн"

    The seventh prince tried to watch his weight, but they broke his leg on top of the other injuries across his entire body. All he could do was touch the wall of each empty cell and the hallway, his feet sweeping the floor, while Aries basically dragged and carried him.

    Sweats broke out on her back and forehead, but she kept moving forward even though Roman was heavier than her. She didn''t know where she got her strength, but the adrenaline pushed her forward. It didn''t matter if they were slow, so long as they had progressed.

    With that setup, they soon reached the narrow hallway leading to the only exit and entrance of the prison. As they did, Roman nced at her. Her face was red, but her eyes were burning with determination, looking ahead. He wanted to ask her many questions, but in this situation, he knew she wouldn''t answer him. She was focusing, and she wasn''t in the position to answer questions right now.

    Hence, Roman reached for the other side of the wall. He ground his teeth at the crippling pain across his arm. Blood oozed from his wounds once again. He did everything he could to lessen the weight this woman was carrying. It was already a miracle she was able to drag him this far.

    When they reached the shut entrance, Aries let him rest against the wall as she peeked outside.

    "You don''t have people on the lookout?" he asked, eyes up on her.

    "Would I carry you by myself if I had one?"

    Roman scoffed and winced at the pain in his legs. "You understand anyone can just barge in there and see us, right?" he queried once again, gazing up at her while she was shutting the door slightly, but still kept peeking with her eye.

    Seeing her action, the seventh prince could not help but shake his head. For him, her action was beyond reckless. How could she drag him with her with no one watching the door for her? This ce only had one entrance and exit; it was designed so anyone could see who was leaving and entering.

    In other words, if someone came in here right now, they were the ones they would first see. Roman hadn''t stored enough energy to lift his arm, much more to wield a sword.

    "It''s clear." He snapped his eyes and saw her squat down beside him, holding his arm over her shoulder once again. "We need to move."

    Roman winced when she squeezed his hips while standing up.<sub> </sub>

    "Help me here a bit, will you?" she snapped her tongue in irritation, only to get a re from him. "What? You don''t want to save Violet?"

    "Curse youбн"

    "I''ve been cursed long before you did. You should pray your curse is effective." She rolled her eyes and took a heavy step. Just like how she carried him, Aries opened the door wide with her foot.

    But as soon as they crossed the threshold, he saw two knights on the side of the door, dead. Despite his swollen eye, he clearly caught the blooding from the knight''s neck and the other had an arrow in his chest.

    "Whatбн" he looked at her. "Did youбн"

    "I had no choice." Her voice was cold, dragging him to this seemingly endless, unfurnished hallway. She didn''t even bat an eye at those knights lying dead in their own pool of blood.

    "I''m barely sane, Your Highness. I''m really not in the mood right now," she added coldly, grinding her teeth as he felt heavier and heavier. However, she didn''tin. Carrying Rome somehow helped her forget about ''unnecessary'' thoughts right now.

    It was also one of the reasons Aries executed this n alone. She needed to do something that was extreme enough for her to force her brain to focus. However, she wasn''t being reckless, unlike what Roman and others would think.

    Ariesбн wasn''t being reckless and knew she would seed.

    "Ughбн" Roman''s fingertips bleed as he wed the wall in hopes of helping her for a bit. They left trails of blood behind them and blood from Roman''s fingertips on the wall.

    The two continued with great difficulty until they finally reached another door. It was the back entrance of the castle where Roman and Inez were kept. The castle was also Joaquin''s yground, where he would keep people to y with.

    Once again, Aries put him down near the wall where he sat down and rested. Roman was catching up to his breathing, wincing as his biggest wound in the leg bleed generously. He pressed it and ground his teeth to put pressure on it to stop the bleeding.

    Meanwhile, Aries checked the situation outside. Unlikest time, she was more careful now. She caught a few knights walking in the distance, but since the guards were changing at this hour, there weren''t many knights outside. Moreover, the darkness was thicker with the season.

    When she was certain they could use this chance to escape, Aries rushed back to Roman. Like how she carried him here, she held his waist with his arm over her shoulder, and then dragged him outside.

    However, just as she opened the ajar door, Aries stopped and raised her chin at the de pointing at her neck.

 Chapter 358 Attitude

    Aries''s breath hitched at the cold metal against her throat while Roman''s entire body froze. But unlike her pair of cold eyes, his swollen one dted as he gazed up at the person standing in front of them.

    "This could''ve happened with your recklessness," said the man in a cloak, retracting the sword from Aries''s throat.

    "It won''t." She smiled, watching the man put his hood down. "Brother."

    "Brother?" Roman furrowed his brows as he studied the man standing before them. Golden hair and a pair of olive eyes, something that was almost the same as the crown princess, but not really. The two didn''t look alike бк not even the slightest.

    Dexter nced at Roman and then at Aries. "You carried him all on your own?"

    "Do you see anyone else here?" she replied sarcastically, making Dexter exhale deeply.

    <o>,m "Attitude. Dani, we''ll talkter," Dexter remarked. "I''ll carry him from here."</o>

    "Thank you."

    With that being said, Dexter held Roman''s other arm and put it over his shoulder. Holding the seventh prince''s hip, Dexter used his strength to lift him like a sack of wheat to his shoulder. Seeing this, Aries raised a brow in amusement.

    "You''re strong." She pointed out, only to receive an indifferent side-eye from him. Aries shrugged and raised her hand.

    "I''m just admiring you."

    "You''ll still need a good scolding. For now, we need to move because the ce is still surrounded by knights." Dexter jumped slightly to fix Roman on his shoulder. Thetter grunted in pain, but Dexter ignored him.

    "Follow me. This way."

    Aries nced at him and followed him discreetly, avoiding getting caught by the knights. Time was their enemy. The only reason Aries was able to sneak inside was that the guards were changing. If Dexter didn''t appear, she would have to sully her hands and their chances would surely decrease in half.

    Taking advantage of the darkness and with Dexter''s knowledge of his training as a recruit knight, he knew which ce to take and shouldn''t. Dexter brought Roman and Aries to the only ce where no one would check.

    The ruined castle that was burned down several days ago.

    Since the incident, no one had approached it just yet. Who woulde close to this ce and risk themselves getting smashed by the debris as the top floor was demolished?

    The ground floor was a disaster, filled with dark coal from the fire and debris that fell. It was a dangerous ce to be in, as at any moment, it could st. Still, just as it was dangerous, it was also the safest ce in the eyes of the knights and the crown prince. Not to mention, it was near the Sapphire Pce, Aries''s dwelling.

    It didn''t take long when they reached a room. To Aries''s surprise, this room, although dusty and dirty, had a clean bed, a table, and a chair, as if someone simply ced all these things after the fire and was now upying it.

    Dexter tossed Roman on the bed, inducing grunts from thetter. But the soft mattress the seventh princended on was far better than the hay straws in his cell. Meanwhile, Aries stood across Dexter''s spot beside the bed.

    She nced at the marquess before her eyes fell on Roman.

    "He will die if he wasn''t treated immediately," she mumbled. "I''ll fetch some medicine and cloth to clean his wounds бк"

    "No need." Her brows rose, watching Dexter squat down, and reached for something under the bed. "I had everything you need here."<sub> </sub>

    When Dexter rose to his feet, he was holding a small crate full of medicines and cloth. He looked Aries straight in the eye with a dull expression.

    "Have you been injured since you arrived here?" she blurted out because Dexter was surely prepared to have all these in this room. "Also, since when did you start staying in this ce?"

    "Since I got in here," Dexter ced the crate at the end of the bed. When he straightened his back and faced her, he shrugged. "I''ll fetch some water while you stay in here."

    Aries pursed her lips and said nothing, but Dexter pointed at her upon halting from his tracks to look back at her.

    "Don''t go anywhere," he warned. "And don''t give me that look."

    "I didn''t even say anything." She scrunched her nose up, feeling wronged by his judgmental gaze.

    "Your eyes are enough to tell me everything. Wait for me in here."

    "Make it quick."

    "Don''t order me. I''m angry."

    Aries frowned, watching Dexter leave the room that had no door anymore from the fire. A shallow breath slipped past her lips before gazing at Roman. The seventh prince was still grunting, writhing in pain on the bed. Blood continued to ooze from his body.

    "He really knows how to hurt someone without killing them." She shook her head and walked around the bed to where Dexter stood previously. Dragging the crate full of medicine and ointment and fabrics near her, Aries sat down on the edge of the bed.

    "I don''t even know where to start," came out a muffledint, staring at Roman''s body and clothes that were damped with blood. He had already painted the white sheet red.

    "Whatever."

    Aries took out the dagger that was slipped in her boots, using it to rip Roman''s clothes.

    "Stay still," she instructed, pulling his shoulder until he was lying t on his back. "You have to endure the pain, alright?"

    Without a second hesitation, Aries held the hem of his shirt''s neckline and ripped it down. As soon as she did, she gulped a mouthful of saliva, which she heard resonating in her ear. Despite the blood covering his skin, she could see deep wounds and burned parts from the branding iron. Parts of his chest were peeled off, showing what was underneath it.

    It was a grotesque sight to behold, and not everyone could keep theirposure and not throw up.

    "Damnбн" she breathed out, reaching for the crate to find any medicinal liquid to sanitize his wounds. She grabbed a piece of clean cloth and a bottle in her other hand. But just as she was about to pour it on his wounded chest, Roman grabbed her wrist, eyes on her.

    "Violetбн" his breathing was heavier, grinding his teeth, clutching her wrist tighter. "бн leave me. Save Princess Violetбн please. Don''t let the crown prince get her бк she deserves more in life."

    His eye teared up while his grip trembled, scared, not for his life but for someone else''s life. Aries pressed her lips, holding his gaze while tears rolled down his temple. But her response made his heart sink.

    "I can''t. It''s toote for me to do that."

 Chapter 359 [Bonus Chapter]Violets Prayers

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    Violet was humming a tune while putting her children to sleep. Her eyes were filled with joy and gentleness, staring at her children as they finally fell asleep.

    "Have a good night," she whispered, standing from the chair beside the bed, only to bend over to nt a kiss on her boy''s forehead. When she straightened her back, she looked down at them with a smile.

    Unlike their life in the royal pce in the Maganti Empire, her children had to share the bed. However, she couldn''t even see this as a downgrade in their life. Her children enjoyed sharing the bed as they preferred having each other''spany.

    "May the Lord guide us longer," she whispered, brushing her boy''s hair with her fingertips.

    Violet looked at her children for minutes, a habit she would usually do to appreciate their life now. There might be things her children missed, and she was also used to, but they were adjusting pretty well. More than those, there were more things she was thankful for with their current life.

    When she finally thanked the gods, Violet marched towards the stands around and blew the candbras. She blew all of them since the firece was enough to bring light for her children in case they woke up in the middle of the night. Once she was finished, she nced in the bed''s direction once again and smiled.

    But unlike the previous nights, Violet didn''t leave the room immediately. Instead, she trudged towards the window where the moonlight was filtering through. Standing in the light and in front of the window, she hugged herself as she felt the slight chill slip through the little gap between the window and the jamb.

    "I hope he is also safe," she whispered, eyes at the moon that a cloud would frequently block. "Your Highnessбн may God protect you."

    Violet smiled shortly, worry filling her eyes. Roman had never left her mind ever since he left after his brief visit to them. She asked him to stay and just run away from the pce, but s, the seventh prince had no choice.

    Roman was the crown prince''s henchman and disappearing suddenly was never an option for him. Although the seventh prince kept his exnation vague and used his people as an excuse, Violet was smart enough to understand the real reason behind Roman''s refusal.

    If Roman run away and stayed with them, their life would never be at peace. The fear of how long their peace wouldst would always be there for them, and they would always sleep with one eye open. Joaquin would hunt down the seventh prince and chase him to the ends of the world.

    The seventh prince couldn''t do that to Violet and her children. He couldn''t risk their lives. And so, he had to return to the devil''s den.

    That was why Violet had been worried. If Joaquin found out about Roman''s real agenda, she could only think of the worst. Death wasn''t what scared her, but the things that the seventh prince would have to endure before that. Violet had lived in the royal pce of the Maganti Empire to know how things work there.

    "Romeбн" she held her hand together and closed her eyes to pray. "Don''t let him get hurt. He is a good manбн pleaseбн keep him safe."<sub> </sub>

    Violet remained silent as she prayed sincerely in her heart. However, just as silence enveloped her with the crackling of woods in the firece suspending it, she heard a faint noise outside.

    She reopened her eyes and turned her head to the door. Her brows knitted as she cocked her head to the side. For some reason, her heart thudded nervously, as her gut feeling was telling her danger had arrived.

    "Impossible," she whispered, clutching her chest, eyes fixed on the shut doors. "Belle?" she called quietly, assuming it was their servant who was with them.

    Violet advanced towards the door carefully; her steps almost didn''t make a sound until she reached the door. She called her servant''s name once more as she held the door handle, but she heard nothing.

    "It''s fineбн it''s fine. This ce is protected by the third prince," she told herself, trusting that the knights, who were also disguised as workers in the vineyard, would''ve gone to her if someone infiltrated the farm. When she sessfully convinced herself and mustered enough courage, she opened the door slightly.

    Violet peeked at the inch gap. Seeing no one was outside, she carefully opened it wider. She looked from left to right before she left the room, closing the door behind her. She heaved a sigh of relief as the hallway seemed normal, yet the restlessness in her heart remained.

    "Belle?" she called, marching through the dim and quiet short hallway leading to the stairs on the ground floor. She picked up the candbra on the stand on her way before stopping at the railing of the stairs, seeing that there were no lights lit on the ground floor.

    "Belle?" she called once again, furrowing her brows. "Did she forget to light up the candles? Or had we ran out of candle again and gone to get some?"

    As much as possible, Violet wanted to ignore the rm bells in her head. There were so many times she locked herself in the room with her children out of fear someone intruded. She couldn''t live in fear anymore and had to move on.

    They were safe. They were not in the royal pce anymore, and everyone knew they had died.

    With that thought in mind, Violet took the steps down carefully. She used the candbra to light up her path until she sessfully reached the entrance hall. Using the candle, she extended her arm to see further. Her brows furrowed when she saw no one in this darkness.

    "Be бк" her breath hitched when her eyes fell on the carpet. At that moment, she held her breath while her eyes dted at the specks of blood on it.

    ''Noбн'' she screamed internally, taking a careful step back. However, just as she was about to run back to her children''s room, a figure in the corner and was just right behind her, camouging in the dark, suddenly lurched forward, covering her mouth instantly with a dagger pressed on her throat.

 Chapter 360 Is He Still Alive?

    Violet froze instantly at the cold de against her throat. Her blood ran cold, breath suspending, and fear embraced her like an old friend.

    "Don''t scream, Princess Violet, if you don''t want to see your children dead." Violet bit her quivering lips, dread traveling down her spine. All she could do was nod in agreement without making a sound. Yet, the de against her throat remained until slight blood oozed from it.

    "Captain." Suddenly, another man in ck clothing approached them. Violet gazed at the other person but was unable to see through the darkness where the man was standing. All she could see was the other person looking at them in their direction.

    "We silenced the workers around and the maid." Violet''s heart sank upon hearing the man''s reports. "The children were upstairs."

    "The crown prince ordered to drag them back alive," replied the man holding Violet captive. "Take the children and we''ll return to the empire as soon as possible."

    "Yes." Violet saw the other man put his fist across his chest and bow. However, he didn''t move from his spot and took a step back to make way for them. She tried to scream, but it went out as muffled with the palm over her mouth.

    ''Please! Not my children!'' was what she was screaming before the man pressed the dagger against her throat, making her wince.

    "Cooperate, Your Highness or your children will get hurt even before you reach the empire." The man threatened her, bringing a tear to her eyes.

    Violet felt helpless. Her entire body was shivering from fear, letting the man tug her towards the main door. However, just as the man holding her from behind reached for the door handle, a grunt escaped his mouth. His hand over her mouth slid down as he slowly dropped to her side.

    Yet Violet was rooted to the ground, holding her breath. When she looked down, she caught a knife plunged into the man''s nape. He was dead.

    "Whatбн" came out a shaking voice, clutching her skirt tightly with her trembling hands. What just happened?

    "Your Highness." Her back stiffened when a voice came from behind her. She recognized that voice; it was the man who was reporting to the other person just now.

    Slowly, she twisted her neck like it was rusting metal. As soon as her eyesnded on him, she gulped as he lowered the ck veil covering half of his lower face.

    "Whoбн"

    The man ced his fist across his chest and bowed. "I came here under the orders of the third prince."

    "Whatбн" Relief instantly welled up in her chest the second he mentioned the third prince, but a bit of doubt also resurfaced in her heart. Despite that this person saved her from that other person, she couldn''t just trust him easily.

    "I know you have a lot of questions right now, but we must flee this ce. It is not a safe ce anymore, Your Highness," said the man sternly. "Do not worry about the maid and the other workers in here. They were safe."

    "My children бк"

    "My colleagues would''ve taken them along with the others."

    "No. I just left their room. I must see them at once." Violet shook her head, eyes at the man before her. "How would I know this is not a part of the crown prince''s ploy?"

    A shallow breath slipped past the man''s lips. "Behind you, Your Highness." He jerked his chin towards the main door behind her.

    "They were just outside."<sub> </sub>

    Violet sized him up cautiously, reaching for the door handle without taking her eyes off of him. When the faint click caressed her ears, her heart pounded against her ribcage. She didn''t want to turn around and get stabbed in the back, but she had to give him the benefit of the doubt since he still saved her in a way.

    She carefully peeked outside and to her surprise, Belle, her maid, was carrying one of her children and another farmer, the other. Around them were the other workers and men in uniformed ck clothes.

    ? "Goodnessбн" without thinking twice, Violet opened the door and rushed outside the mansion and onto the greenery. "Thank God."

    Belle, the old nanny who had served Violet, raised her head when she heard the main door open. Tears instantly formed in the corner of her eyes, seeing that Violet was safe and sound.

    "Your Highness!" called Belle, watching Violet rush to them until she was standing in front of them.

    "Oh, Belleбн" Violet heaved a sigh of relief as she checked her children immediately. It felt like a thorn was plucked out of her throat upon making sure they didn''t inflict the slightest injury.

    "Oh, Godбн" her eyes welled up, patting her chest as she hugged Belle and her boy. Her child in Belle''s arms was still asleep despite being carried, while the other was awake, rubbing his weary eyes.

    "Motherбн" the boy calledzily, only to see his mother rush to him and hold his hand.

    "Are you alright?" she asked, and the boy nodded despite the confusion.

    "Thank Godбн" Violet heaved another sigh of relief before her eyes glossed over everyone''s faces. "Are you all alright?"

    "Your Highness бк I mean, mydy, we''re safe," answered Belle with worry. Violet had been like that; she would worry about them and treat them all equally like a family, but she was never worried about herself. "The third prince''s people came to our rescue, so no one got hurt. However, mydy, your throat."

    Violet touched the minor sh in her throat and winced. Yet, she forced a smile onto her face.

    "I''m alright. This is nothing. What matters is that you''re all alright." Violet scanned everyone around, doing a headcount in her head. To her relief, everyone was here, and they were all safe.

    "Your Highness." A voice came from behind her. It was the man who told her to look outside. Violet turned around and faced the man, watching him stop at arm''s length.

    "What is going on? How did the crown prince know we''re alive?" Violet shook her head mildly before she corrected her question. "The seventh prince, was he alright?"

    As soon as that left her lips, the man lowered his eyes as his jaw tightened. That reaction was enough for Violet''s heart to sink.

    "I will exin everything to you on our way, Your Highness. For now, we must leave this ce because the crown prince''s people will soon surround this area when the first unit didn''t return." The man raised his eyes and nodded encouragingly. "Please, Princess Violet. Your safety and the princes''s safety are the only things the seventh prince wanted. The third prince can''t let Prince Roman down."

    Violent swallowed the frustrating tension in her throat before she nodded in understanding. "Just answer me one thing," she whispered. "Is he still alive?"

    "Yes." she breathed out when he replied almost instantly. "However, he is held captive. The third prince said the crown princess is on it. So rest assured."

    As soon as Violet heard the crown princess''s name, her heart slightly felt at ease. Her lips curled up into a weak smile.

    "Alright."

 Chapter 361 Did You Also Fly?

    "I can''t. It''s toote for me to do that."

    Roman''s heart sank as his mouth fell open. His mouth opened and closed like a fish, but his voice was stuck in his throat. When he recovered, a shaking voice came out.

    "But you saidбн"

    Aries rolled her eyes and wiggled her wrist from his grip. "It''s how I fuel you," she exined, opening the bottle of medicine only to pour it on his wound and then immediately pressing cloth on it.

    "Ughhбн!" he grunted in pain, wiggling weakly, but she pressed harder.

    "Endure it. This might feel another torturous night, but trust me, this pain is not meant to kill you," she remarked while his breathing grew ragged, clutching her wrist once again on instinct. "As I''ve said, it''s toote for me to save Violet. I can''t go there, but have faith in your brother. I''m certain Ismael isn''t as stupid as he was yesterday."

    "Whatбн?" he breathed out sharply, still gritting his teeth.

    Aries shrugged and raised her brows briefly. "You and Ismael had a deal, I''m sure. He didn''t tell me what it is, but knowing how predictable you are, it''s certainly about Violet. Goshбн you two will be a good couple."

    "Will she be fine?" he inquired, ignoring the sarcasm in her tone. "I mean, how did you бк ugh, god damnбн how did you knowбн?"

    "How did I know about Ismael and Violet?" Aries finished his sentence, afraid he would be out of breath and die. "You''re asking the dumbest questions, Your Highness. I thought you already figured that out when I told you about Violet, but well, in your current state, I can''t me that you will be needed some spoon feeding."

    She shrugged once more, removing her hand from the cloth only to pick another for the stab wound on his stomach. Just like how she did previously, Aries poured the liquid medicine and pressed the fabric on his wound.

    "How did you think Violet got out of that fire?" she continued in a low voice, ignoring his continuous grunt at the stinging pain. "How did the fire even start? I bet you had been wondering how Ismael got out of Joaquin''s perfect scheme unscathed."

    Her expression was dull, showing zero sympathies while he writhed in agony. "You''re correct. The person who''s been messing with the crown prince is none other than me. I like Violet, so she got my mercy. The third prince, on the other hand, although I don''t condone his other actions, isn''t a terrible person. He had to do what he had to do to survive and fight for what he thinks is right. It''s just that his enemy is someone with no conscience. I guess you understand that since you still chose Ismael instead of fighting the crown prince with your guerris."

    "Ismael got the credit for my actions. Although he hated the idea, someone had to take the credit," she continued with a nonchnt shrug, pouring some medicine into his other wounds that made him grunt more. "Also, it''s better to use Ismael to be the face of the crown prince''s enemy. He''s quite charming."

    "Ughбн" Roman breathed through his gritted teeth, barely hearing her exnation with the pain crushing the veins in his brain. But he still grasped her exnation from the snippets of it.<sub> </sub>

    "Now, you''re probably wondering why I am doing this. Well, the answer should be obvious, right?" she smiled, and once again, Roman grunted as she shifted to his other wound. "You know this face, Roman. You''ve seen it multiple times. I still remember how you used to look at me behind that metal helm of yours."

    The side of her lips curled up bitterly, but her glinting eyes were sharp. "You always looked at me with pityбн and I hated you for that. Back then, I had always wondered why you hadn''t killed me if you truly pity me. But that doesn''t matter now. If you killed me, then I wouldn''t have the chance to kill Joaquin."

    "So, I guess that is just right." She smacked her lips before raising her eyes when she noticed Dextering back with a barrel of water. "Took you some time."

    "Thank the knights who caught me on the way back." He replied sarcastically, almost rolling his eyes. "I had to drag their bodies away. You''re wee."

    Aries sported a fake smile before looking back at Roman. "He''s barely conscious. I don''t know if simple stitches will even save his life. He lost too much blood, too."

    "Are you saying I should dig a grave now?" Dexter exhaled sharply, straightening his back after cing the barrel of water near the bed. "Then, what? Invite a band so they could y a song or two while we bury him? I''m sorry, Dani. But if he dies, he''ll rot in this room until someone finds his corpse here."

    "Well, I don''t n on letting him die after that effort I exerted." She shook her head in irritation, matching Dexter''s attitude, as she was also not in the mood for any scolding.

    "Dani." His voice lowered, hands on his hips, eyes on her. "What are you thinking of doing with such a reckless action? You could''ve ordered your people бк what''s the use of garnering loyal dogs if you will do their job?"

    "Who said I''m being reckless?" she snapped her eyes back at him and tilted her head to the side. "I''m not, brother."

    "You''re not?" he snorted. "Sneaking in that prison, carrying a grown man thrice your weight, and having no people to have your back is not considered reckless?"

    "I know you''lle," she replied almost instantly, rendering him speechless with the rity in her calm voice and eyes. "If not you, Sir Conan will probably appear out of nowhere. The chances might be low, but Lord Darkmore might also be there. But I''m sure, if the three of your will not, Abel will. He''s always watching, right?"

    Dexter ran his tongue to his inner cheek, studying her expression for a moment. "How are you certain we will?"

    "I just know." Aries peeled her eyes away from him and back to Roman. He passed out from the pain, but his heart was still beating. "You people juste out of nowhere. It doesn''t matter where I was, deep in the ground or on the roof, you guys just appear. How did you evene to this ce?"

    She nced at him with inquisitive eyes. "Did you also fly?"

 Chapter 362 What Are You?

    "Did you also fly?"

    "What?" Dexter furrowed his brows at her insinuation.

    "Nothing." Aries shook her head mildly and approached the barrel near her. She grabbed a piece of white cloth and dipped it in the water, squeezing it dry to wipe Roman''s arms.

    "The dirt will infect his injuries. I will clean him first. Your help will be very much appreciated."

    Dexter watched her rip the rest of Roman''s top and wiped the area that had no cloth she previously pressed on it. A deep exhale slipped past his lips, running his hand through his hair. In the end, Dexter took off his cloak and tossed it over the chair.

    Folding his sleeve to his elbow, he marched towards the bed. "Let me do it." He bent over, standing on the other side of the bed, eyes on her.

    "We''ll talkter when we''re both calm," he remarked, seeing her huff faintly.

    "Yes. Once we''re calm." She rocked her head. "I have tons of questions from you and I hope you will answer them honestly. Because I don''t think I will be too honest to answer yours and receive your scolding if you can''t return the same honesty."

    The two of them looked at each other in silence for a moment before they cleaned Roman together. Dexter had vast knowledge of medicine since he needed it in his experiments on poison. Aries was also adept in these things, as it was part of the lessons she learned in Rikhill, and a bit from concocting poisons.

    Together, they managed to efficiently clean Roman''s wounds and stitched what needed to be closed up. They didn''t talk throughout the hours they were tending the seventh prince. Aside from cleaning and closing his injuries, they also cleaned him from head to toe.

    Roman''s injuries weren''t just grave, but they were from head to toe. So Aries had to wipe even his sole бк the only area that didn''t have a scratch. The tip of his toes had scratches as she dragged him out of the prison before meeting Dexter.

    After cleaning the seventh prince''s body, they bandaged his entire torso, arms, legs, and ankles, to keep them from bleeding and in ce. Once they finished, Aries had to change the sheet while Dexter carried the seventh prince before lying him down again.

    It took them hours to finish before the two could finally rest and breathe. Aries sat down on the corner of the bed, back on the headboard, eyes on the seventh prince lying just beside her.

    "That was exhaustingбн" she mumbled. "I give my respect to all the physicians across the world. They deserved more recognition."

    Dexter exhaled, sitting on the chair beside the bed, and across from where she perched. "What are you nning to do with him? It wouldn''t take long when people noticed the dead soldiers outside the penitentiary and they will find out the seventh prince was missing."

    "They will look for him and turn the capital upside down to find him, of course," she answered, guessing what would happen next. "But isn''t that the reason we hid him here? No one will look for him in this ce. At least, not anytime soon."

    "Dani. I don''t know what''s going on inside your head," he confessed with a deep exhale. "This is not in your n."

    "I know. But what do you expect me to do?" she cocked her head to the side. "Proceed to my ns, knowing it will fail? I''m not wasting a second in here, brother. I improvise if I must. The seventh prince is in this state because I sold him out, but if I didn''t do that, then how the hell was I supposed to know the crown prince''s secret card?"

    "Secret cardбн" his brows furrowed, but he didn''t show surprise or anything that was natural in this situation.<sub> </sub>

    "You knew, huh?" Aries narrowed her eyes as she studied his slightest movements. "Vampires," she stressed, and notice how his eyes dted for a split second.

    "Do you know about them?" she inquired, without taking her eyes off of him. "I want you to answer me honestly, Marquess. If you still want me as your sister, then answer me truthfully."

    "Dani, what are youбн" he trailed off when she spoke once more.

    "That is a question I should ask you," she stressed, balling her hand into a fist. "What are you?"

    As soon as those questions flew out of her mouth, Dexter froze. All he could do was stare at her with nk eyes.

    "Whatбн am I?" he repeated, only to receive silence as an answer. Aries was just looking at him with her sharp eyes. Within those limpid pairs of opalescent eyes hid a deep desire for the truth. It was as if she was simply asking for confirmation.

    "Was that question too hard to answer?" she asked. "Human. That''s all you need to say, brother. Why can''t you say it?"

    "Ariesбн"

    "Then, if you can''t answer it, just answer this one." She cleared her throat, blinking to stop the heat in her eyes. "Are they real? Vampires. Was it true if a human drank a vampire''s blood that ispatible with his, they will gain superhuman strength, speed, and immortality?"

    Dexter licked his drying lips as he pondered for an answer. "Yesбн I heard."

    "Hahбн" Aries ran her hand through her hair andughed weakly. She didn''t speak anymore as she carried herself out of the bed. "I can''t stay here for long. I need to return to the Sapphire Pce to not raise suspicion."

    Her steps didn''t falter as she advanced towards the door. But just as she walked past him, a hand grabbed her arm to stop her.

    "Aries." Dexter stood from the chair and slowly pulled her arm so she could face him. "Let''s talk."

    As soon as their eyes met, his face crumpled in conflict. His lips quivered while she simply studied his eyes.

    "About what?" she asked, but he didn''t respond and simply looked at her in silence.

    Aries let out a faint sigh after minutes of silence before taking a step, slipping her hand in between his arms and body, wrapping it around him. She felt his back stiffen as she nted her palm on it, resting the side of her head on his chest.

    "Don''t look at me like that," she whispered. "That is not the brother I knew."

 Chapter 363 Equally Evil

    "That is not the brother I knew."

    Aries lowered her eyes and clutched Dexter''s back tightly. On the other hand, thetter hesitated to touch her or return her embrace. All he could do was stand rooted on that spot, his hand just a palm length from her back.

    "Dani," he called under his breath, but her almost muffled voice immediately caressed his ears.

    "Don''t," she said. "I don''t think I am ready to hear what you are about to say. You should''ve answered immediately because my resolve already waned."

    His brows creased as the lines on his forehead deepened. His heart was beating so fast he was catching up to his breathing. He tried to control his racing heart, afraid she would feel or hear it, but to no avail. The thought of Aries knowing everything... tore him apart.

    One thing Dexter could agree with Abel was to keep her in the dark about them. It wasn''t to protect her but to protect their rtionship with her. No matter what kind they ssify themselves as, they were and would always be monsters d in human skin.

    Her reaction terrified him бк them. Not that they didn''t trust her, but just as Abel imed, she was a human.

    Anger, doubt, and fear swelled in his chest.

    Humans... they had met countless of them in their time and they knew very well how they respond to things they did not know.

    But Aries... this woman was different, and they wanted to believe she was until the end. However, once she knew and looked at them the same way that only they knew... it was a risk they didn''t want to take. At least, for Dexter... and maybe Abel too, since he kept going back and forth in revealing his secret to her.

    "What should I do?" he breathed out after the prolonged silence.

    "Nothing." She shook her head, taking a step back to look him in the eyes. Tears formed in the corner of her eyes as she reached for his cheekbone. Her fingertips reached for the side of his eyes, staring at them with mixed emotions.

    "Say nothing anymore, nor should you look at me that way," she continued soothingly. "I don''t like the man my eyes are mirroring, brother."

    Her lips quivered as she swallowed down the frustrating tension in her throat. "The brother I knew will never have that disgust in his eyes that are meant for him... and not for the Duke." She forced a smile as her eyes softened.

    "In the end, it all boils down to how you treat me." She cupped his cheek, raising her brows briefly. "My brother... definitely did his best to look out for me and turned his back on his other obligations as the marquess. That alone is enough for me."

    "So, don''t look at me that way again," she continued and exhaled sharply. "The blood running through our veins may not be the same, but you''re always a brother to me... a brother I wished to have and wished to have met sooner. You and Davien will surely get along well."

    Dexter stared at those pair of eyes looking back at him. The more he looked at those forgiving eyes, he couldn''t help but reach to touch her face.

    "You''re not disgusted?" he blurted out, and it was toote for him to take those words back even when he bit his tongue.

    Aries chuckled and shook her head with her lips closed. "Is there something that should disgust me?" she asked. "If being yourself is disgusting, then that makes us two. I don''t think I will ever get disgusted as much as how I am disgusted at myself."

    "Dani."

    "That''s a fact and I wish I can change that... but I can''t." She shrugged and smiled. "That''s how I am and that''s how I think. I can''t just miraculously change that when I had already believed I was disgusting."<sub> </sub>

    Aries gazed down and held his hands before looking up at him once again. "I''m about to break, brother," she confessed, resting the back of his hands which she was holding against her cheek.

    "I''m reaching my breaking point... I''m almost бк almost there. But I can''t." Bitterness filled her voice. "I hadn''t reached the peak of my purpose... I hadn''t seen ite to use. Do you know what is it?"

    She reopened her eyes, holding his gaze. "One of them is that my brother still needs a shoulder to lean on. You can say it is solely because of you, but to be honest, it is partly because of me. It''s one thing I wished I could offer to my dearest brother. I''m simply fulfilling that wish."

    "You... gave me another chance to be someone''s sibling, and I pledged to give my all," she confessed, recalling all those months she stayed in the marquess'' estate. They had a good time together and those cherished moments she treasured were bigger than the dark secrets he kept from her.

    Still... Aries wasn''t ready for the confirmation just yet. Not now. It was too soon and too much to handle in a single day. It might not make a difference when his eyes already gave all the answers she denied, but it does. By this, she could delude herself to move forward, dragging her feet to the inevitable end to where the truth awaits her arrival like a groom at the altar.

    "We had a good time, brother, and I wished to stay it just the way it was." Aries nodded reassuringly, squeezing his cold hands gently. "Give some time to collect my thoughts, but I reassure you... I adore my brother the same way I admired him from the beginning. Don''t change for anyone, especially for me."

    Dexter breathed out heavily once more, studying her eyes. All he could see in those eyes was rity, which reflected him clearer than the mirror.

    "I''ll be on my way now." Aries kept her weak yet reassuring smile, squeezing his hand once more before letting him go. "I''ll see you first thing in the morning. I have a real demon to y."

    <o>,m With that being said, Aries turned on her heel and walked away, keeping herposure. She closed her eyes and breathed out, treading carefully towards the entrance. But before she could cross the threshold, she stopped upon hearing his remarks.</o>

    "You saved yourself from some good brotherly scolding."

    Although his voice was incredibly low and solemn, the nervousness dominating her face was reced with a smile. That was the Dexter he knew.

    "It''ll be harder for you to scold me from now on." She looked back at him and humored. "Step up on your game and I might take you seriously."

    "You..."

    "See you tomorrow." Aries waved and stopped after two steps to look back at him. "By the way, if he is watching, he probably knows about my meeting with my father-inw."

    The side of her lips curled up. "He kept me in the dark, so I''ll let him have a taste of his own medicine. Please help me."

    "You''re evil."

    "Equally evil." He shook his head at her response while chuckling weakly, watching her shrug.

    Dexter stayed in his spot, watching her wave slightly as she left the room. Even when he couldn''t see her shadow or hear her footsteps, he didn''t move a muscle.

    "Thank you..." his eyes softened as the side of his lips curled up in relief. Soon, his eyes sparkled in the dark as liquid formed in the corner of his eyes. "... for looking at me the same way. You have no idea how it means to me... as a big brother from his sister."

 Chapter 364 [Bonus Chapter]Taste Of His Own Medicine

    "How about inviting some angels from our dear heaven above so they witness the wedding of the century in the city of the dead?"

    Conan buried his face in his palm upon hearing another ridiculous suggestion from Abel. He thought he would have some peace preparing a wedding that wasn''t his in the pce''s inner library. It was presumptuous of him to think that way when Abel was everywhere.

    "Hmmбн how about a statue of us together and they will create it on the spot? That would be monumental." Abel''s lips stretched. His feet were resting over the table between them, arms crossed, eyes flickering with enthusiasm.

    <o>,m "Your Majesty, why did you even give me this task and cut my vacation if you''re this invested in this wedding?" asked Conan helplessly, peeking over his palms only to see the devious smile stered on Abel.</o>

    "I''m simply trying to help, Conan."

    "Help?" Conan''s nose red as dismay swam in his eyes. "Your Majesty! How can you call this help when you keep suggesting ridiculous things!?"

    "I''m worried it won''t be as grand as I imagined it."

    Conan nearly wept and buried his face in his palm once again. He knew his vacation was over since this familiar stress prickling under his skin was back. If only he knew this vacation would be cut short like this, he would''ve enjoyed it to its fullest!

    "I haven''t even found a suitable bride and yetбн I''m already nning for someone else''s weddingбн" he muttered in distress, spreading his fingers to peek at Abel, who was just from across him. "Your Majesty, you''re truly thrilled about this wedding."

    "Of course I am." Abel looked him dead in the eye. "It''s my wedding with the most stunning woman in this unforgiving world."

    "And also the ugliest witch," Conan returned with a deep frown, cupping his jaw with the bottom of his palm. "I''m worried about Lady Aries and alsoбн I have this feeling that something is going on in Haimirich."

    "People will have a wild time if the people in charge are not around." Unlike Conan, Abel was far too rxed about what could be happening in Haimirich. "I''m more appalled that my dearest aide hadn''t thought about that."

    ''I did!'' Conan could only look at him with a dead expression. Instead of arguing with the stubborn emperor, he shook his head and gazed at the list he was writing before Abel made an entrance.

    Meanwhile, Abel studied Conan in silence, fluttering his long eyshes ever so tenderly. His unreadable expression was something that could make anyone wonder what was going on inside his head. But whatever it was, one thing was for sureбн it was not good.

    Just as Abel''s lips parted, he closed them again at the figure approaching them. Conan also looked back with an arched brow. Both of them watched Dexter advance in their direction in silence until thetter was standing beside the round oak table separating Abel and Conan.

    "Greatбн just when I thought this night could not get any worse," mumbled Conan, sizing Dexter from head to toe with dismay. "If that Duke and that bird came, I will totally lose it."

    Dexter nced at the mumbling Conan but ignored him. He then looked at Abel, watching thetter tilt his head to the side. Abel''s brows rose when Dexter didn''t say anything while he nted his palm on the surface of the table, eyes fixed on him.

    "My, myбн you''re making me want to fix my posture to appeal in your eyes." Abel broke the silence between them, lips stretching broader. "Like what you are seeing, Marquess? Just in case you don''t know, I''m marrying your sister, not you. You''re a yearte to seduce the irresistible me."

    Dexterughed weakly, but the mockery in his eyes remained. "What are you doing here, Your Majesty?" he asked.<sub> </sub>

    "I am helping my dearest Conan, as you can see." Abel shrugged nonchntly. Meanwhile, Conan narrowed his eyes, studying Dexter''s strange demeanor.

    "No, everyone knows you''re not helping him." The Marquess shook his head mildly. "You''re hiding, are you?"

    Abel kept his bright smile while studying the taunting pair of eyes looking back at him. Ohбн surely, Dexter hated him to the core.

    "Hiding?" Conan mumbled with furrowed brows. "Your Majesty, did you do something crazy again? You didn''t sabotage Lady Aries''s ns, did you?"

    But silence was the only answer Conan received, while the two just looked at each other in a hush.

    "Was she angry?" Abel inquired out of in curiosity, but Dexterughed in ridicule.

    "Why don''t you ask her, Your Majesty?" Dexter returned, tilting his head to the side. "Scared to see how she will look at you?"

    "I amбн terrified, indeed!" Abel intoned, yet his smile persisted. "So much so I don''t think I will ever face her until our wedding day and get jilt."

    "What are you two talking about?" Conan mumbled, darting his eyes between Abel and Isaiah. There were many factors Abel could do to anger Aries to the point she would kill him and Conan was a hundred percent certain it was justified.

    "My fiancee met her father-inw and my best friend in Maganti," exined Abel to Conan, which made thetter''s eyes dte. Abel then leaned back, resting his arms over the armrest, shaking his feet that were over the table leisurely.

    "As I''ve said, she is so smart for her own good. It''ll be a miracle if she doesn''t realize it," he added under his breath, closing his eyes to rest them. "Conan, we''ll go with the statue."

    Conan frowned, watching Abel rest on that chair before shifting his eyes at Dexter. He had shared a fair amount of time with the marquess to know Dexter was a little miffed. He could only think it was because Aries confronted her.

    "Ghadбн am I wasting time preparing all this?" he grumbled and clicked his tongue in irritation. ''I don''t even think this wedding will proceed as nned if Lady Aries already knew about itбн about us.''

    A frown slowly resurfaced at Conan''s at the thought. He nced at Abel and then at Dexter, who was straightening his back while keeping his eyes on Abel.

    They''ve seen tons of different humansбн but none of them looked at them the same way after knowing what they were. Conan was afraid Aries would prove to them she was just like everybody else.

    ''This is sadбн'' Conan sighed deeply as he didn''t even want to see Aries for now. ''I shouldn''t have gotten too attached to her.'' бк but it was already toote.

    Aries was already a part of their life and she could be a great reminder to them why there was a coven in the first ce.

 Chapter 365 [Bonus Chapter] Ive Been Expecting You, Your Majesty.

    Just an hour after Aries returned to the Sapphire pce, she heard amotion outside. Watching knights scurry in the dark from the balcony, the side of her lips curled up. It wasn''t hard to figure out the cause of this panic. They had realized Roman had escaped.

    "He''s probably panting after mming his hands on his desk," she mumbled and chuckled, imagining Joaquin''s reaction to this news. "That''s what you get for fucking with me."

    Her eyes sharpened as they glinted. Her smile lines faded, huffing as Dexter''s eyes suddenly crossed her head.

    "That''s the reason..." she whispered, forgetting about celebrating her win against Joaquin once again. "If that''s the reason... then how can I get angry?"

    Aries looked up at the night sky, barely seeing the moon with the thick clouds reigning over the sky. Dexter didn''t give her the answer бк not verbally бк but the look in his eyes was enough to understand his reasoning. Aries was so familiar with self-disgust for her not to recognize that look in his eyes.

    "Still... it was too much to take in," she continued with a deep sigh, hugging herself, closing her eyes to feel the midnight breeze. "I''m not even sure if I can look at him eye to eye."

    When she reopened her eyes, sadness filled them with the thought of Abel. She understood him; she loved him. Therefore, she wanted to ept him. However, she couldn''t deny this lingering fear in her heart. And to think she hadn''t seen it herself, Aries couldn''t just rear her head towards the unknown.

    "What should I do...?" she whispered, thinking how she would react if Abel turned to someone like the emperor. This wasn''t a matter of eptance, but it was a matter of that situation she knew she would be in the near future.

    Her grip around her shoulders trembled, staring at the sky with conflicting emotions. As this empire came to its inevitable end, she was starting to worry about herself and Abel.

    "Never mind." She shook her head mildly and closed her eyes once more. "I shouldn''t worry about us for now... I should focus."

    Aries huffed and looked at the sky with determination. Her grip on her biceps loosened as she smiled weakly.

    "Papa... Davien... ric... everyone... the curtains are about to close. I know what I am going to do and had done will never be something that puts a smile on your face, but... I''ll kill him." Sheughed weakly as heat formed in her eyes. "I''ll give you the justice you deserved... even when I might not join you up there anymore."

    Her smile trembled, but she was forced to keep it. Deep in her heart, she wished that her family went to the paradise above where they could be at peace. Meanwhile, Aries would surely go to the opposite ce with every decision and action she made until now.

    "Just remember... I regret nothing." This time, her eyes showed rity and resolved, huffing the tension swelling in her chest. She stared at the night sky for a moment and spoke her heart telepathically.

    "Until then..." she peeled her eyes away from the night sky and turned on her heel to walk back inside her room. "... I''ll keep dancing with the devil."

    *****

    <strong>[ Pce Library ]</strong><sub> </sub>

    Abel opened his eyes ever so slowly, catching the high ceiling immediately. Even without checking his surroundings, he knew Conan and Dexter had left him alone. It had been hours since Dexter came to taunt him.

    "Darling..." he whispered, nearly echoing in this piercing silence. "... what do you think about me?"

    He had his eyes closed for hours, but his brain was far too active to get some rest. Dexter''s reaction was too vague, but if he would base it on Dexter''s personality, the marquess was probably hurt.

    "Did you shun him?" he wondered, and then followed by a thick silence. "I should''ve asked Conan for a coffin before he left. I''m dying already..."

    There was not a vestige of sadness in his eyes, nor did it bear fear. If anything, Abel kept a straight face despite expressing his honest thoughts regarding the matter. He was numb, and somehow... he already expected this to happen from the very beginning.

    Abel had tons of time to prepare himself for this day.

    "If this had happened sooner... she would be dead," he muttered, retrieving his feet from the table. "If it happened a littleter... which is now... it''s me who would go."

    He pushed himself up and sauntered off leisurely. His aura was too rxed for someone whose heart was on the brink of falling into bits. Knowing the things at hand, Abel didn''t want to stay idle and get eaten by the uncertainty. He wasn''t the type to ignore his urges, even if that urge was only one percent.

    Walking through the hallway, Abel stopped at the vacant sitting room in silence. He headed straight to the balcony, standing in the middle, breathing in deeply, and then breathing it out through his mouth.

    A hiss slipped past his lips, grinding his growing fangs as something protruded from his back. In one quick p, giant wings broke free, shading him from the faint light of the moon.

    "Rest in peace, me," he remarked sarcastically, jumping from the balcony before flying up high бк higher than the tallest castle in the imperial pce. This had been the easiest way to reach her even in Haimirich, so it only took him a few minutes beforending on the balcony of her room.

    As soon as his feet touched the surface of the veranda, his wings slowly shrunk back in, standing in front of the door. His hand stopped as he reached for the doorknob. It was open. Not just unlocked, but it was left ajar.

    He looked at it for several seconds before pushing it open, listening to its faint creak. As soon as he entered, his eyesnded on the empty bed.

    "I must say those wings are quite huge..." her soft yet stern voice rang in his ear, making him turn his head until his eyesnded on the figure sitting on the settee in this dark room. "... or perhaps it was just the shadow?"

    Aries crossed her arms and leaned back, resting her leg over the other. "I''ve been expecting you, Your Majesty."

 Chapter 366 Fear

    When Aries walked back inside her chamber, she looked back and stared at the door. She was about to close it but hesitated.

    "Knowing him... he probably met with my brother," she murmured, leaving the door slightly ajar. "He''s not the type to prolong his own issues... or rather, he had dyed it for a long time."

    Aries pursed her lips and let out a deep exhale, marching towards the settee inside, instead of going to bed. As soon as she plopped her butt down, she raised her gaze towards the bed where the light from the balcony couldn''t reach. She sat there in silence, bing one with the darkness and findingfort in it.

    Deep in her heart, she wished to not address this matter бк at least, not now. However, Abel wasn''t the type to put things on a pause just because she wasn''t ready. She needed to be prepared at all times and use her head and decide at the most crucial time.

    Therefore, despite her reluctance, she knew she didn''t have that much time.

    "He wille..." she whispered, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly when she heard a faint thud outside the balcony. She clutched the armrest when her eyes caught a man''s shadow withrge wings. The light stretching from the balcony and to the bed''s foot couldn''t even show.

    Her heart trembled as coldness seeped into her bones, watching the silhouette of his wings bent until it shrunk into nothing. In this darkness and silence, she even heard the faint crack as if bones were breaking.

    Aries took a deep breath when she saw his figure reach for the knob and counted how many seconds before he pushed it open. The moment he crossed the threshold, she blinked, and the fear in her eyes dissipated without a trace.

    "I must say those wings are quite huge... or perhaps it was just the shadow?" she broke the silence with a calm voice, watching him look in her direction. "I''ve been expecting you, Your Majesty."

    Abel slowly cocked his head to the side. "You were expecting me?"

    "For someone who cannot stand the guessing game, yes бк I''ve expected your presence." Aries rocked her head, keeping herposure under his menacing gaze. His crimson eyes were brighter than usual, like those beasts in the middle of a vast forest watching their unsuspecting prey.

    "Don''t tell me you came here, expecting I was asleep?" she continued out of in curiosity, propping her jaw against her knuckles. "That will be very disappointing, Your Majesty. I thought you knew me better than that."

    His lips curled up as his eyes fastened with amusement. Even in the darkness that was shrouding her, he could see her fearless eyes looking back at him.

    "I know you''re not asleep," he confessed indifferently. "And I also know you are waiting for me. I can hear your breathing from a thousand miles away, darling. So, I know when you''re asleep or awake."

    "Yet, you still came knowing my intentions," she responded, pushing herself up. "I wonder... why?"

    "You know why."

    "I don''t." She shook her head mildly while keeping her eyes on him. "As slow-witted as I am, I don''t know your reason foring in here. Perhaps a night of passion?"

    Abel went silent for a moment, running his tongue across his inner cheek. "You''re trying to get into my nerves?"

    "I''m not." She shrugged. "I am simply expressing my dismay without being too bold about it."

    "A lover''s quarrel, I see."<sub> </sub>

    "Rtionships are full of challenges, my dear." Her smile didn''t reach her eyes. "They said after the honeymoon stage, a married couple will love and hate each other to the point they can kill their partners. Maybe we''re at that stage."

    "Speaking from experience?"

    "From my previous marriage? Yes." Aries chuckled in ridicule. "I killed бк was about to kill my first husband. I hope that won''t happen to my second."

    His smile stretched broader, sizing her up from head to toe. She held her chin up, no vestige of fear in her eyes. But s, the distance between them thrives the longer this conversationsted.

    "And what gave you the impression you can kill your second husband?" he asked, batting his eyeszily. "How will you kill him? I would love to hear your murder n."

    Silence was the only answer he got from her. They looked at each other in silence before he advanced in her direction.

    "I might contribute some inspiration since I''m a connoisseur of murder," he continued when he was standing toe to toe with her, bending over, staring at her up close. "Tell me, darling. How are you going to kill him?"

    "You... don''t scare me," came out a low yet firm voice, staring at him straight in the eye whilst shaking her head. "You don''t --"

    Her breath instantly hitch when he suddenly wrapped his arm around her waist and dragged her to the wall next to the window to see him properly. He was so fast that her heartbeat couldn''t even keep up until her back hit the wall. However, no pain came to her as he mmed his hand against the wall and pulled her waist against him to stop her from crashing.

    When she recovered, she blinked countless times and raised her eyes.

    There, for the briefest moment, she held her breath at the sight of his sharp fangs while he hissed at her. His pupils constricting, tilting his head from one side to the other.

    "Still not scared, darling?" his tone sent a shiver down her spine, making her feel the fear she never felt before. This time, her lips quivered as she answered with a muffled, "no." But s, his lips stretched broader like a maniac.

    "Your body says otherwise, though," he pointed out, feeling her back with his palm gently. "You''re shaking."

    Her breathing was suspended as she took a deep breath. He was right. She was scared to death, and no matter how she perfectly hid it from this false bravado, her body was something she could control with limitations. After all, Aries practiced hiding her anger, but never her fear. She didn''t have any fear of this empire or the people in it, so there was no need for it.

    "If I am scared a bit... will that matter?" she asked with an almost shaking voice, keeping her fearless countenance on instinct.

    "It will, darling."

    "Why?" she queried once more. "What will you do?"

    "I don''t know, darling... and that uncertainty alone should scare you out of your wits." He narrowed his eyes and licked his fangs. "Because if you show me your fears... I will feast on them."

    Aries looked at those dreadful pairs of crimson eyes for a moment, before unraveling theyers she had worn through the years until there was nothing left in her eyes aside from what her heart felt at that moment: fear.

 Chapter 367 Human... So Fragile Yet So Vile.

    "Because if you show me your fears... I will feast on them."

    Abel''s eyes were glinting, watching her look at him straight in the eye with that stern countenance of her. But as if to spite him or taunt him, her lips quivered and, slowly, her strong facade broke down. His breath hitched and his hand against the wall balled бк almost wing the cracked wall as he did.

    "Hah..." a weak and shortugh slipped past his lips. "Oh, darling... now you pressed on my nerve."

    "You''re scaring me now." Her breath hitched when he leaned his face closer, making her fuse with the wall, only to feel his grip around her waist pulling her closer. Aries nted her palm on his chest on instinct, eyes shaking while holding his deadly gaze.

    "Why, darling? Weren''t you a little daunting moments ago? Where did that courage go? Hmm?" he cocked his head to the side, raising his brows. "im it and say you''re not scared again even after seeing these fangs and meeting these eyes, darling."

    He waited for an entire minute, waiting for her to tell him she wasn''t scared. Abel anticipated the words that woulde out of her smart mouth when they parted, but nothing бк not even a lie. Her voice didn''te, but the fear in her eyes had grown apparent.

    The side of his lips curled up, chuckling with his lips closed. "I thought so." He rocked his head mildly. "That''s the answer you sought for why I never told, darling."

    Abel pushed himself from the wall and pointed at her. "That."

    Aries clutched her hand close to her chest, watching him ran his fingers through his hair as he took several steps back. Abelughed briefly, and it continued on, taking more steps back until he turned on his heel. She flinched when he suddenly kicked the coffee table, flipping it over with a loud pang.

    "Ahh..." Abel chuckled continuously, ncing at the broken table. He sped a portion of his hair, looking around the chambers as if to find more things to break. His eyes glinted brightly, revealing the immense anger he never felt before. A wave of anger he didn''t know how to quench.

    "You better leave, darling," he closed his eyes, his finger zeroing on his temple. "I''m angry."

    "No."

    He hissed and reopened his sharp eyes, ncing over his shoulder until his dull eyes met hers. "No?"

    "It''s бк it''s..." she stuttered, watching him walk in his spot until he was facing her.

    "It''s what?" His brows elevated, tilting his head to the side. "Can''t speak anymore? Too scared?"

    "I... am."

    His eyes dted at her, pointing at the door. "Then, leave. That is the sign you should leave, darling. Run while you can because if you don''t, I will amputate your legs so you don''t go anywhere. If you try to crawl, your arms will go."

    "What..."

    "Yes." Abel smiled until his eyes were squinting. "Do you know what I will do to your severed limbs? I''ll frame them and treat them as my prize possessions. Add them to my collections."

    Aries balled her hands into a fist and spoke cruelly. "You''re sick."<sub> </sub>

    His smile faded until his face and eyes were devoid of emotion. "Yes... surprise, you just figured that out?" he fluttered his eyshes ever so slowly.

    "Then why not kill me now?" she asked bravely, controlling her racing heart under his sharp yet empty gaze. Those empty eyes he would always give her in the past and only resurfaced recently were so familiar to her, clenching her heart until she was out of breath.

    "Hah... kill you now?" Abel pondered for seconds before he marched towards her. "Good idea."

    Aries''s body trembled at his every step, watching his hand approach her neck. A part of her brain was screaming at her to shut her eyes or run away where he wouldn''t find her. However, fear settled in her heart, paralyzing her from doing anything, forcing her to keep her eyes open until his hands wrapped around her neck.

    She held her breath, eyes shaking at him. Butбн his grip around her neck wasn''t tight. In fact, he was barely touching her, giving her the chance to feel the tremors on his palm.

    He couldn''t do it.

    Abel ground his teeth as heat filled his eyes, seeing her frightened expression up close. How could she still use that smart mouth of hers when she couldn''t even fake it all the way?

    "You are driving me crazy, Ariesбн" he shook his head mildly, wanting to look away from her but couldn''t. He couldn''t take his eyes off of her, even though that mere sight of her brought this crippling afflicting in every fiber of his body.

    Despite the pain that was even graver than all the deaths he emerged from, not a single tear escaped his eyes.

    His fingers tapped her neck slightly until his arms slid down to his side. He shook his head once more, taking steps back. When he raised a finger and opened his mouth, he ended up waving and keeping his silence.

    He already expected such an oue. It was normalбн it was normal.

    "Humansбн ah, fragile creatures and yetбн" Abel nced at the armchair and kicked it to release just a small бк tiny бк fraction of his anger, roaring. "бн so vile."

    Heughed through his gritted teeth, kicking another chair towards the door, shifting his anger to objects. "Fucking humansбн! I will kill every single бк"

    "Your Royal Highness!"

    <strong>SPLASH!</strong>

    For a moment, Aries''s heart stopped when a knight barged inside her room after hearing themotion, only for the knight to explode like a balloon. Blood sttered around the entrance. Her eyes fell on the floor, seeing the knight''s uniform with no body in sight as if he just disappeared. If not for the blood and tiny flesh and witnessing herself what Abel was capable of, she wouldn''t believe this was possible.

    "The door is open." She raised her shaking eyes at him, catching Abel motioned his arm towards the door. "Get out of my sight, Ariesбн or you will be next."

    Her lips quivered as they parted, keeping her gaze on him. "No." Her breath hitched when something came out of Abel''s back, and she only realized it was his wings when its sharp tip was pressed against the side of her neck.

 Chapter 368 [Bonus Chapter]Better?

    "Getбн the hell out of my sight," he repeated without blinking, not even once. "I don''t want to see you."

    Abel shook his head, barely stopping himself from inflicting even a scratch on her. Deep in his broken and rotten heart, he wished for her to listen. Just this once. He hoped she would listen to him and leave because if she didn''t, he wouldn''t be kind to her anymore.

    "I like you," he confessed in his threatening voice. "To an extent, I will make an exception and let you go alive. Do not take my leniency for granted, darling. It has its limitations."

    He slowly retracted the tip of his wings from her neck. His eyelids drooped, swallowing the frustrating tension in his throat. His stiff shoulders then rxed as he loosened his fist, epting what he had already epted even before everything came to this point.

    As mentioned, he already anticipated it.

    Abel had always known and feared for this day toe. When he saw her walking towards the emperor''s chambers, he already knew this would happen. No. Actually, he had always thought this would happen way before she entered the Maganti Empire.

    The reason he had always wanted to kill her back in Haimirich. He should''ve killed her back then. If only he did, it wouldn''t be as painful as now. However, he couldn''t reverse the time nor could he unlove her. If things were just that easy, he wouldn''t mind living in a time loop where the two of them didn''t have anything to think about anything else but themselves.

    He looked down, recalling all the good times they shared. It felt like a dream, giving him the urge to sleep permanently since dreams were better than reality.

    For his thousands of years of existence, that was the only time he could safely say was worth taking to his grave.

    Not this. Not that look in her eyes.

    "Do I need to get on my knees and beg you?" he asked after the prolonged pause between them, keeping his eyes on the floor, unable to hold her gaze and feel nothing but pain. But unlike his intimidating demeanor, his auraid low and the words that came out of his mouth differed from his intention.

    "Choose meбн" he whispered before he slowly got down on his knees. "I''ll be goodбн I promise."

    Aries bit her lower lip, watching him on his knees, on the floor, begging her to choose him.

    "I''m sorry, darling. I was scared you''d leave me if you know meбн don''t leave me." His voice was incredibly low and shaky, but she could hear him loud and clear. "I don''t need you to ept me. I just need you to stay. Hurt me or break me, hate me if that will make you feel goodбн but don''t leave me."

    "If my wings scare you, I''ll cut them for you. If my fangs disgust you, I''ll extract them every single time grow back. I''ll close my eyes every time they will glow. I''ll take out everything that you don''t like, justбн just don''t leave me."

    "You''reбн ridiculous." Aries shook her head, unable to hold back the tears that were flooding her face. He didn''t even answer and simply nodded in agreement.<sub> </sub>

    "Stupid to assume mere words can persuade you? I am, indeed." Abel chuckled bitterly, hearing her heavy footsteps approaching. "Stay, please," he demanded under his breath, shunning the thoughts of her leaving now, even after begging her.

    But wellбн what did he expect?

    Abel had been terrible; his existence was filled with nothing but sin and he was well aware if he would go to hell, he would be a legend. He will even rece the demon in charge in that ce. Despite being aware of that, he regretted nothing.

    This world deserved his anger, and if it fought back, it was just fair. If this world fell at his feet, then that would be a shame. But if he fell into the world''s feet, he got what he deserved.

    That had been his motto; his simple outlook on life.

    However, right now, he couldn''t help but wonder if he was a little bit mercifulбн he could probably sway her. He had more cards to y, more things to argue with, and reasons why she had to stay.

    ''If onlyбн'' his thoughts trailed off when she noticed her skirt on the floor where he was looking.

    "Stupid," she spat out, waiting for him to raise his head while kneeling in front of him. As soon as their eyes met, his brows raised slightly, seeing the tears filling her eyes. Without letting him wonder what she was doing, Aries lurched forward, throwing her arms wide before wrapping them around his neck.

    ? For a moment, Abel stiffened at her action, frozen on the spot, mind in a shut mode. Meanwhile, Aries rested her chin on her arm that was resting over his shoulders. Tears continued to roll to her side, her heart pounding against his chest.

    His wings were still spread wide and she could see them up close. From this faint light shining down on them from the window, she had finally seen what sort of wings they were. Although they looked like bat wings, they were made of flesh with blood as their skin. More than terrifying, it looked painful, as if someone simply took his spine out and broke it to create a hauntingly beautiful pair of wings.

    She couldn''t even imagine spreading them if she had themбн and yet, Abelбн would fly just to see her. He might or might not be hurt, but her heart already knew the paralyzing pain these wings brought to him through the years.

    Her lips trembled as they parted, mustering the courage to speak after finding her voice.

    "Better?" she asked.

    It was just a one-word question, the question she would usually throw at him back in Haimirich. But nowбн it felt different. His face crumpled as he slowly crawled his arms around her waist and they crept up her spine. He buried his face in her shoulder and hummed.

    "Mhmбн" he clutched her back mildly. "Better."

 Chapter 369 The Man In Her Eyes

    "Better."

    One word from her and everything calmed down. Just one embrace from her and his mind went to a standstill. Everything... just went cid, like how a rainbow appeared after a heavy pour. It was almost... a relief.

    Feeling the vibration of his body against hers, her lips curled up while her eyes softened. She closed her eyes to rest them for a bit, calming her ragged breathing. When she reopened her eyes, her subtle smile reappeared.

    "I thought you''re a genius since you always act like you are Mister know-it-all." Her voice was shaky. "I''m scared, Abelбн and I will not lie that youбн who and what you are, scared the hell out of me."

    Aries slowly drew away from him to see him eye to eye. Her eyes softened, even more, catching a tear rolling down his cheek.

    "Butбн you should embrace me as tight or as gentle as you used to until I''m not scared anymore." Nodding encouragingly, feeling a liquid on her thumb as she caressed his cheek.

    "The same with not having to beg me," she breathed out. "You don''t need to go on your knees or cry. All you have to do is say, ''stay'' or ''live for me'' and I will stay and live for you. No questions asked."

    Her chest moved in and out heavily, swallowing down the built-up tension in her throat. Tears filled her eyes once more until her vision was blurry, but she could see him. She could feel him and she knew those little tears he was shedding were new to him.

    "Don''t give me that look again, Abel." Aries moved her fingers until she was touching the corner of his eyes. "How can I leave or hate you when you look more in pain than I am? How can I hurt you when you''re already hurting? And how can I not ept you when you had epted me as a whole?"

    ? "This world is unforgiving, I know. But I am not the world, Abel. I''m yours, only... and in me, you have a ce. A good one, a beautiful one, the best one I can offer. I thought that was the reason you told me that." She smiled, wiping his tears, which she never thought she would ever do in her life. Abel would shed blood, but never tears. But for her... he had shed tears even if he didn''t want to; even if he tried not to.

    "If love is loving me so much you are willing to let me go, then I am in love with your love." Aries gulped once again, raising her other hand to cup his other cheek. "I''m not really sure if this love I am talking about is what actual love is, but if love is choosing to struggle with you, then I think I... love you."

    "I might be wrong and this might be a sin to feel what I feel, but I''d rather be damned a hundred more times and go to hell with you, where we would dance in the eternal mes, than heaven." Aries nodded at him, staring deep into his eyes as if she could see through his dark, dark soul. "Just... don''t show that disgust anymore ever again. I don''t want to mirror that look in your eyes in mine. That''s not the Abel I know. That''s not the Abel I would like you to see in my eyes, because you are more than those hauntingly stunning wings and those dangerously alluring fangs. Those crimson pairs that look like rubies were not the things to hide underneath those lids, but worthy to disy and adore."

    Her lips stretched broader reassuringly as fear slowly disappeared from her eyes without a trace. His lips parted, but his voice was lost somewhere within him. All he could do was stare at her smile and bask in those epting eyes.<sub> </sub>

    ''I don''t rememberбн'' he whispered to himself. ''бн when was thest time someone looked at me this way.'' бк there was not in his memory someone had ever gazed at him with eptance.

    Throughout his time, from a young, naive boy setting out to see the beauty of the world as what he had heard, to the time his expectations were shattered when reality hit him like thunder the second he was persecuted by the same people he helped and considered as friends and family. Abel never recalled the time they epted him for who and what he was.

    All he could remember was the fear in their eyes, even though they tied him, and relief when they burned him alive. This was the first. That, after fear, eptance would follow. It wasn''t in the pattern he was used to. Therefore, he didn''t know what to do or say.

    But what he did know was his heart was full of warmth. After thousands and thousands of years, and walking along a thorny road with his barefoot, he felt at peace and relieved from pain.

    He felt alive after living many years of just breathing and existing.

    Abel looked at her as if he found salvation for the first time, holding the hand that was cupping his cheek. He took a gamble of giving his heart to her, putting his life in her mercy, and she handled it with care and gave him the mercy he believe he didn''t deserve.

    "You have my gratitude," he expressed, looking into her soft, loving eyes. The man her eyes were mirroring wasn''t as haunting as he perceived him, that he gained a habit of breaking mirrors and sses when they reflected him. Instead, he lookedбн like Abel. Just him бк in those eyes.

    His wings that were spread wide moved, closing in, keeping just the two of them. The door that was wide open suddenly shut closed, but they both ignored the loud click as it did.

    "Marry me," he proposed under his breath, seeing her even under the shade of his wings.

    Aries smiled subtly and nodded. "Yes," she whispered back, closing her eyes as he leaned his face closer.

    His eyes softened seeing her close her eyes when he leaned in, despite knowing a monster was there to im her. Smiling gently, Abel closed his eyes and imed her lips, sharing a kiss that didn''t bore a lingering pain in their heart, but something that healed the wounds in the remaining pieces of their ckened hearts.

    And for the first time in his life, Abel thanked God for her existence.

 Chapter 370 The Only Thing He Wanted To Win Against Her

    Aries smiled against his lips, resting her forehead on his. A chuckle slipped past their lips, drawing away from each other to look into each other''s eyes.

    "I love you," she whispered, feeling this relief saying those words she couldn''t speak for years, nor could she bear hearing.

    Abel cupped both her cheeks and closed his eyes with his forehead still against hers. "I love you more," he breathed out.

    "No, I love you more."

    "I love you more than that."

    "We will not stop if you keeppeting with me." She giggled, sniffing hard.

    "This is the only thing I will want to win against you." He chuckled, drawing his head back, eyes searching for her. "There were billions of people in this world, but I only want you. Just you. The rest? They can all die for all I care."

    "Even Sir Conan?"

    "I''ll bury him myself if I must. He and Dexter can share the same grave."

    "How about Lord Darkmore?"

    "Apparently, he already prepared his own grave." He shrugged, making herugh. "Isaiah is picky, even to where his body will rot."

    She smiled subtly, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly. "I love you," she repeated and wanted to repeat it as many times as she could until her vocal would explode.

    "I love you more." She chuckled at his reply, before he confessed sincerely than thest, "I love you."

    "I love you more." She held his hand that was cupping her jaw. "I love you."

    "I love you more."

    They looked at each other andughed, shaking their heads. They were silly. For someone who had already shared intimacy and had grown familiar with their bodies, those simple words still brought butterflies to their stomach.

    "Oh, darling." Abel leaned in and rested his forehead against her once again. "What should I do with you?"

    "What do you want to do with me?" she asked, eyes closed, lips stretching from ear to ear.

    "Undress you and spend a night of passion? Kiss you until you suffocate? Hold you? Jump from the roof together and up to the sky? Carrying you to your husband''s chancery and gloating about our uing wedding isn''t a bad idea as well." Aries chuckled at the list he kept spewing, but he did none of those as they remained slumped on the floor, inside the wings that were keeping them.

    "Aries," he called under his breath, drawing his head back once more to look her in the eye. "I love you."

    This time, his tone was a hundred times more sincere than the previous one. It was as though he never wanted to forget that his heart belongs to her. She was the only owner of his heart бк no one else but her.

    But her response was always better than his own confession. "I love you more."

    <strong>More.</strong>

    That word alone was enough to fill his heart with pure joy.

    "Loveбн is not something you do alone anymore, Abel." Aries cupped his jaw and smiled, nodding reassuringly. "If you love me more, then I''llpete with you and show you I am crazy enough to love you even more than you can."

    "More бк much more and more and more," she continued with a bright smile. "Until you get tired of me. I will stay, even if you beg me to leave and cry blood or whine all day long. I will stay."

    "You''re stuck with me," she added.<sub> </sub>

    "Oh, noбн" he humored, leaning in and tilting his head. "Throw away the keys. I''m not getting out of this shackle."

    She giggled against his lips, closing her eyes, basking in the tenderness of his lips. Aries crawled her arms over his shoulder, locking her hand behind him, and pressing her lips to deepen their kiss. However, she flinched when she identally touched his wings.

    Abel chuckled. "Scared?" he asked in her mouth before drawing his head back.

    "Well, I am." She was clutching his shoulder as she looked up at the wings around them. "I had been wondering if they had feathers."

    "Disappointed they''re not the same as those angels?"

    Aries looked back at him and studied his face for a moment. "Your face is angelic." She bit her tongue, knowing in a sense his beauty was far too beguiling to consider angelic.

    "I''ll pretend I didn''t see through your lie." His smile stretched wider. "Want to see them up close?"

    "Can I?" heughed when her eyes lit up like a kid.

    "Sure." He nodded, ncing at his left-wing before it moved down close to them. He watched as she widened her eyes and leaned forward to examine them.

    "Do they hurt?" she asked, almost taking him by surprise as that question was something no one ever asked. When he didn''t reply for several seconds, she looked back at him with curiosity in her eyes.

    "Do they?"

    "Now? No."

    "How about before?"

    "Before thisбн I''m used to it."

    "And before you got used to it?"

    Abelughed with his lips closed at her persistent question. "Like hell," he confessed. "It felt like someone was deboning me, breaking it apart to make it a piece of art. I cried."

    "You did?" she asked, giving him a knowing look.

    No, of course, he didn''t. However, Abel batted his eyes and pursed his lips, nodding.

    Aries leaned closer and nted a peck on his lips. "Better?" she asked, despite knowing he was lying.

    "I think it still hurts. I''m not actually numbed by the pain."

    Again, Aries kissed his lips. "Better?"

    "Hmmбн a bitбн?"

    She rolled her eyes and kissed the apex of his nose, showering him with more kisses, starting from the cheek, to both his eyes, to his eyebrows, to his forehead, and even down to his chin. After kissing every area of his face, Aries drew her head back and tilted her head to the side.

    "How about now?" she asked, almost curiously.

    This time, he didn''t feel like lying as he smiled. "Never been better."

 Chapter 371 Soran

    "Never been better."

    "Good." Her smile stretched in relief before shifting her attention to his wings. "Can I touch it?"

    "Be my guest." He shrugged, coaxed enough to give her the world.

    Aries swallowed a mouthful of saliva before raising her trembling hand to touch it. She hesitated when her fingertip was an inch away from it, but mustered enough courage to touch it. As soon as she did, her heart clenched. It felt like she was touching his muscles without skin.

    No doubt. They were painful to spread free, much more, expose in the sky where the wind was harsh.

    Her eyes softened before she leaned in and nted a soft and brief kiss. She didn''t even mind the blood that clung to her lips when she drew away.

    "There''s blood." He pointed at her with his chin. "Wipe it бк"

    Abel was about to wipe it with his thumb when she licked her lips clean. His brows creased, his mouth falling open as she used her thumb to wipe the blood left on the corner of her lips, only to lick her thumb, eyes on him.

    "Hmmбн" she hummed a tune, smacking her lips to get a better taste of it. "Not bad."

    "Not bad?"

    "Mhm!" Aries nodded profusely. "It''s not bad. I thought it will taste bitter or like poison, but it''s a little bit of both with a touch of sweetness? I think you''re eating too much sugar, dear."

    His eyes fastened with amusement before heughed. "I''m not fond of sweets." He leaned his face, smiling deviously.

    "The only sweet I liked for dessert is you."

    "So flirtatious." Aries clicked her tongue faintly, studying his face.

    "Well, flirting is better than saying you just insulted me."

    "I did?"

    He rocked his head. "Not bad," he repeated. "If one of our kind heard you, they will rip your throat to fix the way you speak, darling."

    "Really?" her eyes dted as herplexion instantly paled, frowning when he grinned from ear to ear. Aries red at him and punched his chest mildly.

    "That scared me for a second."

    "Haha. They hate me enough to cheer you on throwing that insult at me. They don''t have the guts to make such a statement, knowing they will drool if I bled even just a tiny bit." He shrugged, moving closer to her until his arms were wrapped around her waist. "My blood is precious, darling. So precious they would rather use me asбн a drinking supply."

    She frowned, moving from her spot on the floor to hisp. Her arms were still over his shoulder. They stayed on the floor and both of them didn''t mind it.

    "Can we make a profit out of it?" she humored.

    "Are you in dire more money?"

    "Will you put it in the market if we do?"

    Abel nodded in all seriousness. "If you need it, then why not?"

    "I''m kidding." She rolled her eyes, resting the side of her head near his neck.

    "I love you," she whispered when she didn''t know what to say anymore. "I don''t even want to share... much more sell you."

    Abel gazed down at her and smirked. "I love you most."<sub> </sub>

    Aries chuckled at his reply but didn''t argue with him. In her heart, she already knew she had won.

    "Soбн were you human before?" she asked out of in curiosity, still having a vague idea of what sort of creature he was. All she knew was there were vampires and humans could gain their abilities. Abel looked like a human, after all. No one would ever suspect he was a vampire or whatnot.

    "No."

    "You were a vampire from the beginning?"

    "Mhm."

    Aries nodded in understanding. "Is it true that vampires had long lives?"

    "It is true."

    "Thenбн how old are you?" she asked, raising her head to look him in the eye. "How long have you lived, Abel?"

    "Does it matter?"

    "Of course it does." She nodded and smiled subtly. "I want to know you. Not the current sovereign of the Haimirich Empire, but you."

    Abel pursed his lips into a thin line and pondered for a moment. "I stopped counting." He shrugged, but he meant it.

    "When you live long enough, you stop counting at your first decade. But if I am going to estimate, I''m aboutбн" he hummed and calcted in his head. "бн over four thousand years old?"

    "You''re ancient."

    "I''m older than your ancestor. Did you forget?"

    "But that''s before civilization started."

    "Ouch?"

    Aries blinked twice as she processed how legit those ims were. Still, doubt flickered across her eyes as it just sounded unbelievable. Truly unbelievable. Four thousand? Did he have a dinosaur as a pet before?

    "You''re not God, are you?"

    "Hah!" he burst out ofughter while she frowned, making her punch his chest mildly.

    "I know it sounds stupid, bute on, Abel. I only exist for twenty-five years, but I felt like I''m already eighty!"

    "Apologies, darling. I find it rather hrious since I didn''t see thating." He shook his head, suppressing hisughter. When he recovered, Abel let out a deep exhale, more than willing to share more about his story, which he told no one, nor did he ever think he would even share in his life.

    "For two millennia, I lived in this ce where our kind dwells," he exined. "Until I was fascinated with the story outside and set off on a wonderful journey."

    His eyes softened as he lowered his gaze, recalling his reason for going out of the maind бк thend of vampires бк in the first ce.

    "I never had such thoughts before, until a boat was washed to the maind, carrying a bunch of humans from a wrecked ship." He looked back at her and smiled. "That''s the first time we met humans. One person, in particr, made an impression on me. Humans had always been greedy, but that person is a man of integrity. He is the only person I truly respected and looked up to."

    "A human?" she cocked her head to the side, noticing the respect Abel still bore in his eyes while talking about that man.

    "Mhm." Abel rocked his head and smiled gently. "His name is Soran."

 Chapter 372 The Rise Of The Tyrant

    ording to Abel, the humans that were washed ashore in thend of vampires were greedy. Even after being weed by vampires and provided with their necessities, humans plotted to sell this information once they were outside thend for the money or simply for added manpower.

    Vampires were strong and terrifying creatures. Having one was worth a unit of human soldiers. Subduing them all meant having the world at their feet. It may be ridiculous to think how humans could even consider they could attain such a feat, but humans were humans.

    They were creatures whose ambition was limitless. The sky''s the limit.

    That was when Soran, the man Abel admired, ughtered every human who came with him. Making a mountain of human corpses, he stood on top of them until the vampires came from the permeating scent of blood and death.

    His reasons weren''t as admirable as to protect vampires from human invasion, but rather the opposite. And Soran never denied that. Yet he gained respect and admiration from the vampires.

    Soranбн was a wise man. He may be good, but also bad for some. Either way, he cared for humanity, even if it meant taking the lives of other humans as a sacrifice.

    With only one human in thatnd of vampires, Soran had grown close with a few vampires. One of them was Abel. Soran would constantly share his stories about the outside world, unknowingly inspiring Abel to see the world since Soran would smile every time he recalled it.

    However, the world outside wasn''t what Abel had imagined it.

    Wars, unjustified deaths, poverty, illnesses. The world was full of that.

    Having this urge to help, Abel tried to help the first town he firstnded in that was gued with those lists of misfortune. Knowing he was different and a vampire, Abel introduced himself as someone who could cure illnesses.

    One after another, his ''miraculous work'' mesmerized everyone. They epted him бк almost worshiped him. But Abel wanted nothing in return since he was already satisfied with their warmth. A warmth he never felt from where he came from.

    ? Until one disaster came.

    With human savagery happening here and there, the town he was dwelling in was under siege. The poor townsfolk had no chance of fighting or defending themselves, dying at the cruel attacks. Seeing this, Abel tried to evacuate as many people as he could.

    However, as he went back and forth in the town that was slowly being engulfed by fire, he saw a boy lying in his own pool of blood with his eyes open and a wooden spear on his little back. He knew that young boy and was very familiar with his bright smile.

    Abel looked around the burning town, recalling how peaceful and unsuspecting they were before the attack. But their peace was ruined in a sh, and they had taken the lives of the innocent.

    And so he snapped.

    Doing what he thought was right, Abel faced their attacker head-on, ripping them all apart with his bare hands like the monster he was. He unleashed the wrath that kept boiling within him, seeing only red as he continued until there was none left.

    One would think the townsfolk Abel protected would thank him. No, it was the opposite. Watching him ''get out of control'' terrified them.

    But humans were naturally cunning. They knew if they showed him their fear, he might ughter them all.<sub> </sub>

    Therefore, they treated him the same, waiting for a chance to strike this demon.

    Abel wasn''t dense to not notice their change of hearts. However, he shunned it. He believed these people would ept him despite being different. That they would see him beyond being just a mere vampire; that they could consider the good deeds he had done until that one incident.

    His heart was full of hope and faith in people.

    But he was wrong.

    Those people proved him wrong and, unlike him, who believed in their hearts, they were too blind to see how big his heart was. Or rather, they knew exactly he had a big heart and thus, they cut it in half.

    One silent night, they fed him a potent poison they concocted themselves and put him in a deep sleep. When Abel opened his eyes groggily, he was already bound, surrounded by the angry and frightened townsfolk. The person standing before him, who lead those people, was the same person whom he trusted the most.

    He was more than just a friend to Abel. He considered him the brother he wished to have. The man was someone who treated him the same, encouraging him the townsfolk would eventually ept him, and Abel just needed to show his sincerity.

    Everything was a lie.

    That friend and brother Abel treated from the brink of death looked at him with nothing but disgust. The smile andughter they shared, and the memories Abel cherished, shattered like ss.

    Everything was a lie and yet, even when they lowered their torches to burn him alive, Abel denied this lie. Even when he was screaming his lungs out, all he kept saying was, ''he meant no harm.''

    But no one listened.

    All they heard was a monster writhing in pain. A devil who could kill them with his bare hands. A beast who must cease to exist. Even though the urrence of the world had been going on before his arrival, they pushed the me on his existence.

    Someone had to take the me and apparently, Abel, because he was different, had to take the fall.

    One would think Abel changed after emerging from that hellish fire alive. No. He had a big heart, remember? He tried to convince the frightened townsfolk who watched him die in that fire all night, only to have him talking to them, convincing them they could talk it out.

    But it was futile.

    Abel was foolish. And so, they tore his already torn heart as they set him on fire once again. When it didn''t work and he was still alive? They thought of countless methods of how to kill him, tearing his big heart to bits, and creating an actual monster.

    And thus, the rise of the tyrant.

 Chapter 373 [Bonus Chapter]Thats My Real Name

    Abel arched a brow when he heard Aries'' sniffles. The side of his lips curled up, chuckling as she wiped her tears, trying so hard not to cry.

    "Darling, that was a millennium ago. I had moved on," he humored. "Although I appreciate the tears you''re shedding for me."

    Aries looked up at him, her eyes puffy from all the crying from an hour ago. "I hate them," she announced with a shaking voice. "But above all, why are you so stupid?!"

    Aries bit his shoulder like a dog out of frustration. Abel shouldn''t have stayed after being set on fire alive! He should''ve just taught them all a lesson! Those people deserved it.

    "Haha! I was young and foolish." He chuckled, watching her let his shoulder go, and looked at her with a smile. "But, I don''t regret it."

    "Why?"

    "Becauseбн I don''t?" He shrugged nonchntly. "I don''t regret giving them my full trust and trying to work it out with them. Because at the end of the day, I can tell myself I did my best, and I tried beyond my limit, practicing maximum toleranceбн until I''ve run out of patience and snapped."

    Aries pursed her lips, studying his eyes. She could tell he was telling the truth. In fact, even if he wouldn''t show, she already knew he was that kind of person. Look at them, for example. Abel put his faith in her, taking the gamble of getting his heart crushed or be handled with care no matter how heavy it was.

    He would probably say he did his best to love her with all his heart if they ever parted. Fortunately, Aries wasбн Aries. She was just as crazy as him and equally evil if she must.

    "Don''t feel bad for me." He poked the tip of her nose lightly. "I didn''t regret giving my faith in them, nor do I regret ughtering them."

    She clutched his shoulder mildly. "Where is this ce now?" she asked under her breath.

    "Will you avenge me?"

    "No. I''m just curious."

    "Well, it''s gone now." Abel shrugged and quirked a brow before a devious grin resurfaced on his face. "Rikhill had fallen, did it not?"

    The expression on her face instantly died. "I''m not joking, Abel."

    "Hahaбн!" heughed, hunching in when she pinch his chest lightly. "Fine, I''ll tell you."

    "Was it Haimirich?" she inquired, raising her brows in anticipation of his answer. Abel simply nced at her and sighed secretly.

    "It is."

    <o>,m "Youбн" Aries bit her inner lip, rubbing her index on his other shoulder. "бн don''t hate them?"</o>

    "I don''t."

    There was a moment of silence between them while holding each other''s gazes. Abel could say he ruled over them to haunt their future generations. But Aries had a different take on it.

    By the way she sees it, deep in his heart, Abel still sought their recognition. He still wanted to prove to them he was worthy of their love and eptance. It had been his obsession, his only fuel to keep himself going with his immortal life. Therefore, after getting their recognition, he would be a tyrant to get hated, only to bring peace and order himself.<sub> </sub>

    It was an endless cycle he was stuck in.

    Crazy? Yes. None sense? Not really.

    For someone who wouldn''t die, Abel needed to do something not just to kill time, but to have some sense of purpose. He needed something that could push him forward, even if it was the craziest and the most ridiculous thing to do. No wonder he liked the extreme. Only the extreme could make him feel something during those times.

    "Over four millenniumsбн" she whispered without taking her eyes off of him. "бн I would go crazy."

    "No, you won''t. Trust me." Abel nodded encouragingly. "I would''ve gone crazy if it''s that bad."

    "бн" She hoped she misheard him, but she couldn''t keep a straight face with him shamelessly nodding in agreement to his own im.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips as she leaned her head against his.

    "You''ve been through a lot," she whispered, nting her palm on her chest. "Four thousand yearsбн that''s how long before I met you."

    His lips curled up subtly as he gazed down on her, casually rubbing her back with the back of his fingers. "Four thousand years of wait is not bad."

    "How is it not bad when you met countless deaths?" Aries looked up at him with mixed emotions in her eyes. "My brief existence is already painfully bearable and there were times I wanted to die бк many times I wished I was dead, instead of just being dead inside."

    He pressed his lips and hummed, studying the fear, worry, and sadness in her eyes. Things he couldn''t express or feel for himself since he knew deep in his heart he alreadye to terms with this endless cycle of life a thousand years ago. He appreciated her feelings, though.

    "Four thousand years is not short, darling." He rocked his head, batting his eyshes ever so tenderly. "But it''s definitely worth it."

    His eyes scanned her face, raising his other hand to caress her jaw. "No doubt."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin sh, eyes holding his pair of crimson flickering with affection. She wasn''t worth it, she thought. Or rather, that had always been what she believed. Aries was worthless after everything she went through before him.

    Butбн in those eyes that had always seemed to draw her soul in, she had value. How could she hate him for having just a pair of wings and fangs when she met real monsters like Joaquin?

    "They called you a monster, a devil, an abominationбн but humans are far crueler than the devil they condemned." Aries cupped his face and let out a deep sigh, still holding his gaze. "Although I cannot say you were innocent throughout the four thousand years of your existence, what you did to others does not matter to me. Because at the end of the day, you, Eustass Silvestri Abel Bloodworth, is the only one I have. And what you have done to me is the only thing I count."

    The side of his lips curled up, but more than the heartwarming remarks she uttered, his name left a deep impression on him.

    "Grimsbanne," he breathed out, making her brow raise.

    "Pardon?"

    "Abel Grimsbanne." He lowered his head until his forehead was against hers, brushing the tip of his nose with hers. "That''s my name. The real one."

 Chapter 374 [Bonus Chapter]She Was His World

    "Grimsbanne?" Aries whispered, blinking, watching Abel draw his head back mildly, creating a palm-length distance between their faces. "You have a different name?"

    "It''s still Abel."

    "But a different family nameбн" she trailed off as realization dawned on her.

    Aries had read the history of Haimirich and ignored the details that didn''t make sense. But now that she remembered it, there was a time back in Haimirich, when Abel took her out to the Capital and told her a story about his family. Or rather, like what he imed it, the first emperor''s family бк although there was no such thing written in the records.

    But with this piece of informationid out on the table, that story he told her in a nonserious manner suddenly made sense.

    "That story you told me back thenбн" she paused, seeing him nod even before she could finish. "бн you have sisters?"

    "I do. Three, to be exact."

    "Where are they?"

    "Hmmбн let''s see." Abel hummed a long tune, pondering about the most concise answer. "The first daughter, Ameria, thest time I heard about her, is she married a good-for-nothing from the La Crox. Then the second, Mathilda, she''s probably still in our house. Even if the world crumbles, she won''t leave that house. And then the youngest, Marseбн I hope she dies."

    Aries frowned at hisst remarks. "Don''t you want to see them again?"

    "Hell no." His answer was quick, scrunching his nose up. "Darling, we don''t have that sibling bond. We lived in a house and we can live without speaking a word to each other for decades."

    p "That''s impossible."</anda>

    "Not for us." He shrugged. "Our cursed family is not a normal family, darling. Each house is different. You had a loving family, while I hadбн housemates. If our family is only normal, then Marse won''t run away even before she can learn how to walk."

    "Ohбн"

    "Moreover, it''s better if we don''t see each other in this lifetime."

    "Why is that?"

    Abel simply looked at her and smiled, keeping his silence for a moment. "Becauseбн you''re with me."

    "Will they hurt me?"

    "Unless they want to die," he remarked. "What I mean is, youбн I don''t want to put you in a situation where you''d get hurt more. Maganti is a ce where I would like to bury your pain бк our pain. So we can move forward, leaving the past where they belong."<sub> </sub>

    Aries pursed her lips and smiled. "Nothing bad will happen," she reassured with a nod, cupping his cheek. "And even if things go south, getting hurt slightly isn''t that bad. Even if I had to spill blood or y someone, I do not mind. As I''ve said, I will struggle with you. That''s my choice and it will be idiotic to think everything will be sunshine and rainbows."

    "Come what may, but even if the heaven falls, my decision is final, and that is you, Abel." Aries moved forward, nting a deep yet brief kiss on his lips. "We will struggle together and it might sound corny, but I know what I''m signing up for."

    He smiled, resting his forehead on hers, eyes closed. "Well, I guess we do not have to worry about that for now, since you still have a husband to y so we can marry."

    "That''s right." She chuckled. "There''s still this present we must handle."

    "We?" Abel slowly drew his head back and tilted his head to the side. "Darling, isn''t it just you?"

    Aries tightened her limbs around his neck. "Why is it just me?"

    "If you say ''we,'' then I''ll take that as is. However, I do remember my order." He blinked almost innocently. "If you don''t remember, let me remind you of my exact orders: ''<strong>the Maganti Empire must cease to exist.'' </strong>Meaning, that it must cease to exist. No one will live бк not the crown prince, not the third prince, not anyone."

    Aries looked at him in dread, remembering those orders. She thought he had already forgotten about them, but it seemed Abel was simply waiting for his chance to put that order to use.

    "Ismael might be foolish, but Abelбн" she let out a deep exhale, realizing she didn''t have this sort of talk with him because Conan, Dexter, and even Isaiah, preferred if Abel stayed out of it. "The Maganti Empire is a hell for me, but despite my deep hatred of this ce, there were people out thereбн that did nothing aside from being born and raised in thisnd."

    "They were just like my people in Rikhill. They did nothing, but they suffered because their ruler wasn''tpetent enough." She huffed faintly, a little hurt by her own im, but that was the truth. "What thisnd needed isn''t a total destruction, but a reform."

    "My hatred and anger should be put to those who were responsible and not to those who were innocent," she continued solemnly. "Iбн don''t want to continue the cycle of vengeance, Abel. I want to put a stop to it." бк that was what she learned throughout her journey in this ce.

    Although in the beginning, Aries wanted to destroy thisnd, acting as the crown princess and meeting some citizens, she realized they were justбн people. They were all victims and survivors. Therefore, they had to do everything to survive for the people they lived for, even if it means closing their eyes and gritting their teeth when injustice was happening right in front of them.

    "The ''great'' Maganti Empireбн is pitiful for sheltering an actual monster like the crown prince, Abel." Aries smiled bitterly. "I''m still angry why these people have to live peacefully while my people had suffered. But, even if the choice is either them or me, this is the only way I can repay my people."

    "I might not know what my people think about this decision, but I don''t want more innocent people to suffer just because the individuals in power wereбн lunatics."

    Abel looked at her in silence. "That''s what I thought." He leaned forward and nted a kiss on her lips. But before he could deepen their kiss, she drew her head slightly with her forehead on his.

    "Did I pass?" she inquired under her breath, making him smirk, knowing he wanted to see whether her mind would change in destroying this entire ce than choose forgiveness.

    In Abel''s mind, if Aries chose the former, he didn''t have a problem with destroying the Maganti, since thisnd deserved it. But if it was the former, thenбн Abel might believe in humanity, even if it was just a tiny bit of faith.

    "I''m not testing you," he whispered back, iming her lips once again before he added into her mouth. "Butбн you make me want to believe again. I thank you for making my world a ce where forgiveness exists."

 Chapter 375 [Bonus Chapter]Does It Taste Different?

    "Butбн you make me want to believe again. I thank you for making my world a ce where forgiveness exists."

    Aries smiled against his lips, securing her arms around his neck. His hand held her waist still while the other hooked under her legs.

    Keeping her eyes closed, she still felt her body elevate as he stood up. Without parting lips with her, Abel carried her to the bed. She only realized their destination when her back hit the mattress slowly.

    She opened her ever so slowly, watching him draw away, hovering over her.

    "You love me?" she asked, reaching for his face to caress it.

    Abel leaned his face into her palm, nting a light peck on it. "Very muchбн to a degree too great to be reasonable or eptable," he breathed out, eyes on her.

    "Do you love me?" he returned the question, making her squint her eyes as her smile stretched a little.

    "More than much," she whispered, making him smile.

    The two of them held each other''s soft gazes, and it only filled their hearts with nothing but pure warmth. There wasn''t lust that usually resurfaced in their eyes, but they held affection and eptance. They see each other, eye to eye, heart to heart, soul to soul, reflecting the person they see.

    In hers, there wasn''t a tyrant, but just Abel, whom she loved. And in his, there was his heart.

    Abel hovered over her in silence, satisfied with just looking at her like this. If this was before, he would have undressed her already. But he could already feel her even without going inside her and she was very warm.

    "Where is it?" she asked, reaching for the side of his lips. "Your fangs. I want to see them."

    "They''re sharp."

    "So?"

    He batted his eyes and opened his mouth slightly, revealing just the tip of his fangs that looked like canines.

    "Careful. You''ll graze your hand," he reminded her gently when he felt her fingertips on the corner of his lips.

    "You drink blood using your fangs?" she asked, tracing his upper lip carefully.

    "Mhm."

    "And it sustains your life?" she asked, seeing him ponder for a second before he nodded. "Do you want to drink mine?"

    This time, he went quiet, eyes on her. "For any other reason but to keep me alive, sure."

    "Will it hurt?"

    "You can be the judge whether or not it will." His eyes fastened with mischief as the side of his lips curled up. "Shall we try?"

    "Will it kill me?"<sub> </sub>

    He shook his head. "No."

    Aries pursed her lips and drew a breath. "Let me test the pain first." And without waiting for his response, Aries pressed her index against the tip of his fangs. She flinched when it pricked her like a needle and blood instantly oozed from it.

    "I told you, they''re sharp." Abel kept her finger in between his teeth and sucked the blood from it. "So?"

    "How fascinating," she murmured, blinking back to her senses, searching for his gaze. "I mean, that''s surprising. But it didn''t hurt as much asбн"

    "Stop using the pain you had inflicted on thisnd as the standard, darling." Abel let her finger go, lowering his body, tilting his head to the side until the apex of his nose was touching her neck. "Those things were meant to break you. I bear no such intention."

    Her breathing grew heavier, clutching his chest on instinct. She shivered when he licked her neck gently.

    "I''m scared," she confessed with a shaking voice, breath almost hitching.

    "I know." His hot breath kissed her ear, then nted kisses on her jaw briefly yet sweetly. "Tell me when you''re ready."

    Aries closed her eyes and drew a deep breath, exhaling it through her mouth. Her body rxed at his constant kisses, feeling his other hand crawl up to her arm, pinning her hand to her side, slipping his fingers in between hers.

    When she felt secure enough with the heat of his body transferring to her, she opened her eyes.

    "Please be gentle," she whispered, feeling his fingers over her hand curl.

    "You know the safe word, darling." He traced the outline of her neck with the tip of his nose, gulping to soothe his drying throat. "Don''t bear with the pain."

    Aries nodded, saying nothing further. Her heart was pounding against her chest and each beat echoed in her ear, waiting for him to bare his fangs and sink them into her veins.

    ''I trust youбн'' Aries clenched her teeth when she felt the tip of his fangs against her skin, clutching and pinching his shoulders as they pressed deeper. Her mouth fell open when his normal teeth touched the surface of her neck, while his fangs were deep under her skin.

    "Ahбн" her back arched as her grip on his shoulder tightened.

    Strange, she thought. Aries was well-aware that his fangs, which were just as sharp as the dagger''s tip, were dunked deep into her neck. However, she felt zero pain. It could be because her body was numb with pain since she could stab herself without a second hesitation, or it wasn''t truly painful.

    Either way, those weren''t what was important to her.

    Every time she heard him gulp sent this ripple in her heart. His hand felt the other side of her neck, making her tilt her head to give him better ess. Meanwhile, his other hand crept down to her thigh, squeezing it up until her knee was bent and her sole was touching the mattress.

    Aries slowly opened her eyes and nced at him. Her lips curled up subtly, loosening her grip on his shoulder, only to crawl her arms around him. She clipped his shirt with her fingers, moving it up before resting her hand on his back to feel his body.

    "If I met you two thousand years agoбн" Abel carefully pulled his fangs out to not grazed her skin and faced her, licking his fangs that kept her fresh blood. "бн I would''ve killed you."

    "I trust you." She smiled, knowing he would stop himself since she felt rather snug despite having her blood drawn. "Does it taste different?"

    "Be the judge. Have a taste." He bent over once again, this time, his lips aimed for hers бк hitting the bullseye perfectly.

 Chapter 376 [Bonus Chapter]Make Me Cum With Your Mouth

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "Have a taste."

    The tang of iron filled Aries'' taste buds. It tasted likeбн blood. However, his kiss and how his tongue circled around her mouth were full of pride.

    Aries drew a breath, lifting her head to deepen their kiss. As she did so, her hands under his clothes and on his back moved up. Abel kept her lower lip in between his teeth while drawing his head back, helping her remove his top.

    Standing on his knees, keeping one in between her legs, he looked down at her. He wiped the corner of his lips with his thumb, watching her clutch her hand close to her chest. Yet, she kept her eyes fixated on him.

    "If I sayбн I am gobsmacked," he paused as he bent over, holding the hem of her nightdress, and slowly pulled it up while feeling the outline of her body with his palm. "Will you believe me?"

    Aries lifted her head as he slipped her dress and tossed it to the side, lying bare under his gaze.

    "Lo-and-behold." He raised his brows briefly, licking his lips at her glorious body, which he was about to im.

    The side of her lips curled up coquettishly, reaching for his hand and guiding it to her breast.

    "Make me believe you," she teased, keeping her chin up. Aries bit her lip gently, eyes fixed on him, while he pressed her thumb on her nipple.

    "Hehбн" he smirked, danger lurked behind his eyes. He massaged her nipple in a circr motion with his thumb, watching her bite her lips. His bulge hardened, catching the desire and fearlessness in her cid, green eyes.

    She was taunting him, and he liked it.

    Abel pinched her nipple lightly, observing how her brows creased. His mouth slightly fell open, elongating her nipple until they were hard under his thumb. He yed with them, ignoring how her knees closed in mildly.

    He narrowed his eyes, catching the little holes his fangs left on the side of her neck. Aries was his and those marksбн was the proof he didn''t need to hide anything from her. His eyes sharpened as they darkened, bending over until his weight was pressed on her.

    "You''re mine," he imed under his breath, blowing faintly into her corbone after kissing her neck. His breath instantly caused her feverish body to shudder.

    "Ahбн" she moaned as his lips trailed kisses from her corbones down to her upper breast until he bit her nipple gently. "Abelбн"

    Her face blushed in beet red, flinching when he flickered his tongue against her hardened nipple. She gasped when his hand pinned her inner thigh to the side, gliding his thumb to her already wet nub. She felt him smile against her breast, making her look away while biting her lower lip.

    "Don''t be shy, darling," he dawdled seductively, shifting his attention to her other breast, licking and sucking it passionately.

    "I''m not," Aries breathed out, biting her pinky, crawling her other hand through his soft green hair, stilling it on the back of his head. "Butбн it''s different when you''re teasing me."

    ''I''m not teasing you.'' She flinched when she heard his voice inside her head, almost freezing on the spot and getting out of her immersion when he added, ''rx, darling. That''s what happens if I drink your blood.''

    ''You didn''t tell me,'' she replied internally, gasping when he licked her navel. His hands were on her hips.

    ''You didn''t ask.''

    ''But бк ahбн'' Aries arched her back and gasped when he licked the heart of her femininity unannounced. She sped a portion of his hair, unable to decide whether to push him away or pull him down. His tongue was circling around her erged clitoris teasingly, gliding it up and down her wet entrance.

    ''Mhmбн'' his moan in her head made her shiver and clutch the sheet with her toes. ''Lovely.''<sub> </sub>

    "Abel," she moaned, only to gasp бк almost out of breath бк when he suddenly inserted a finger while slurping the love nectar leaking from her.

    ''Oh, darlingбн'' he crooned telepathically, inserting another finger to stretch her. With how aroused he was, he knew this much stretching was what she needed. His fingers went in and out, slurping her sweetness in the process.

    How delectable.

    "Ahбн" Aries moaned once more, gripping his hair tightly, almost reaching her orgasm. Much to her dismay, just when she was about to reach her peak, Abel suddenly pulled his finger out and pushed his weight off of her.

    "Huh?" for a moment, she blinked in confusion. Her eyes searched for him, seeing him standing on his knees, smirking at her deviously.

    "You said you love meбн?" came out a muffled voice, almost sounding like she was on a verge of tears because of the frustrating stop.

    How cute, he thought.

    "I do love you, darling." His eyelids drooped dangerously, guiding his finger to his lips, and licked the love juices. "But it''s always fun to see you sexually frustrated."

    ''This sadistбн''

    ''I can hear you.''

    Aries bit her tongue and held her breath. ''Stop reading my thoughts.''

    ''Stop speaking in my head, darling.''

    ''I''m notбн?''

    ''You are.''

    ''Youбн'' her nose red as her eyes sharpened. ''Why are we even arguing in this situation?''

    ''Because it frustrates you.''

    "Youбн!"

    Abel smirked and cocked his head to the side. "How cute," hemented, noticing the sweats that made her skin glow.

    "Darling, my loving Aries, I''m not purposely reading your thoughts," he exined while unzipping his pants. "You are simply speaking in my head, instead of speaking in your head. I''m trying to give you privacy, but you''re not allowing me to."

    Aries gulped as soon as he released his massive erection, staring at it momentarily. No matter how many times they shared a round of passion, she was always astonished by his size. His oozing pride and confidence came from that, for sure.

    Her brows rose when she saw him crook a finger, moving her gaze up to meet his eyes.

    "Come here, my Aries." He shed her a kind smile. "Make me cum with your mouth."

 Chapter 377 [Bonus Chapter]Giving Heads

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "Make me cum with your mouth."

    Aries blinked twice to see better if Abel was serious. And he was бк hundred percent serious. Although Abel had this habit of licking her down there, he never asked her to suck him. Matter of fact, Aries never did it before as well. Her assaulter was too afraid she would castrate them; they wouldn''t make that rookie mistake, for she would surely bite it off.

    "Come." Abel nodded once, crooking his finger. "My Aries."

    <strong>My Aries. </strong>

    Aries bit her lip as his voice reyed in her head. There was just something about how he was iming ownership that crawled under her skin. Her mouth fell open as her eyesnded on his erected. She gulped, pushing herself with her elbow, and crawled towards him.

    Aries sat on her calves, looking up at him, her face just right in front of his member. The moment she locked eyes with him, Abel ced his thumb on top of his sex, lowering it until it was touching her moist lips.

    "I... don''t know how." Her voice was low and breathless, eyes still on him.

    "I''ll teach you." Abel winked, smirking mischievously and eagerly while tapping his manhood against her lips. "Open your mouth."

    She drew a breath, and when she exhaled it carefully, she nodded. As instructed, her lips parted, lowering her eyes. But before she put it inside her mouth, he spoke.

    "Tongue out." Aries flinched slightly but followed his instruction. "Lick the top."

    For a moment, she hesitated, but still leaned forward. The second the tip of her tongue touched the tip of his erection, Abel''s mouth fell open. He thought she would just lick it once and wait for more instruction, but Aries licked it once and then followed with more.

    "Ah..." he breathed out heavily, making her take a peek at him. Seeing the blush on his face and the gleam flickering in those dangerous eyes, a rush in her blood traveled to the very ends of her nerves. She felt excited, wanting to test how much further she could take this.

    Aries circled her tongue around his head, eyes holding his.

    "Damn..." he smirked, running his hand through her hair. "How can you be so quick-witted, darling?"

    The side of her lips curled up, eyes taunting. She moved down, licking him up until another moan escaped his mouth. Now she understood why Abel enjoyed teasing her. Hearing his moans and curses under his breath was ting and rewarding.

    While she was licking him, kissing him in between, he bent over.

    His finger caressed her spine until he squeezed her tender bottom. He squeezed so hard that his hand left a mark on her skin, but she didn''t react negatively.

    "How lovely," he whispered, feeling the curves of her body with his palm. Despite everything this body went through, her skin felt so smooth under his palm, and the little sweatsing out of her heated body helped him grope her easily.

    ''I want to lick her,'' he thought, only to hear her chuckles in his head.<sub> </sub>

    He smirked, a bit surprised since he didn''t mean to let her listen. But it seemed to him she was eavesdropping. Before he could do or say anything else, Aries''s curiosity peaked.

    Noticing his testicles, she wondered what they were for. She was curious if licking them would make him tremble. To answer this question in her head, Aries just fulfilled this little urge in her heart. She stuck her tongue out, licking his balls up to the tip of his erection, but she didn''t stop there as she put it inside her mouth.

    "Damn...!" he cursed through his gritted teeth, shivering at the euphoric sensation prickling under his skin. He hunched in, squeezing her butt on instinct, savoring the heat of her mouth around his girth.

    "Don''t graze it with your teeth," he reminded under his breath, which she didn''t respond to. But Aries heard him, keeping it in mind.

    She moved her head back and forth, tightening her mouth every time she pulled her head back, only to loosen it every time she would move forward. In a way, she felt her jaw loosening, but she enjoyed his moans and his body shivers.

    He wanted her to make hime with her mouth? Challenge epted.

    Aries didn''t know her reason for raising her hand and wrapping it around his erection while giving him heads, but she did. Her hand squeezed his erection mildly, moving it upward and downward, watching his expression. Abel couldn''t even close his mouth, observing her with pleasure clouding his eyes.

    If only she knew he would like it that much, she would''ve done it before.

    "My Aries..." Abel ran his hands from either side of her face,bing her hair back. "Darling... you don''t know how much I am suppressing my desire to choke you."

    His hand guided her head, making her suck him deeper. He sped a portion of his hair, staring at her body, wondering why the hell he wasn''t fucking her senseless right now. Drowned in pleasure, he snapped out of his trance when she gagged upon hitting her throat.

    "Ah..." heughed weakly as she pulled her head back, gagging.

    When she recovered, Aries red up at him andined. "Is that what you call suppressing --" Aries shut her one eye when he jerked on her face, and she frowned.

    "You could''ve told me..." her voice lowered, wiping the semen on her cheek. A line appeared in between her brows as she looked at her fingers and the white liquid on them. Out of curiosity, she guided it to her lips and licked it. To her surprise, she licked more until her fingers were clean, as it tasted sweet.

    She wiped the rest on her cheek with the back of her fist, only to lick it there. When she realized he was still standing on his knees, she raised her eyes and saw him watching her silently and dangerously. That second, Aries nced at his member and realized he was still hard бк even bigger than moments ago.

    They were not done yet.

    "Yes, darling." She looked up when he spoke. "We''re just starting."

    And before she knew it, Abel pushed her shoulder, and he settled over her, his palm on her side. His lips stretched into a wicked smirk, eyes fastened with amusement.

    "Wish that your damn husband won''te because I will fucking kill him while fucking you."

 Chapter 378 [Bonus Chapter]My Wicked Devil

    <strong>[WARNING: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    "Wish that your damn husband won''te because I will fucking kill him while fucking you." Abel''s eyes glowed as his fangs let themselves known once more, making Aries shudder underneath him. s, her eyes were fearless as she smirked.

    "My, my," she returned. "Bless his heart."

    "Bless him."

    Abel arched a brow knowingly before moving his hips forward, causing her back to arch with her mouth open. A hiss slipped past his gritted teeth. That was the smoothest pration he ever had with her leaking core and the saliva she left on his member.

    Her soft and hot inside instantly embraced his girth, clenching around him, swallowing him whole. Abel slipped his fingers in between the gaps in hers, pinning her hand to her side. His other arm snaked around her waist, stilling her as he thrust deeper to feel her more.

    "Ah!" Aries moaned loudly at the hard and slow thrust that seemed to reach her intestines. And Abel was still growing inside her, stretching her flesh to fit his massive erection.

    "Still too tight..." he whispered, lowering his body until his weight was on her.

    She spread her legs even wider, shuddering when he pulled back, only to pound on her again. Another loud yet short moan escaped her gaping mouth, feeling the junction between her thighs throb.

    "Abel," she called, panting. She raised her hand and caressed the side of his neck and jaw, waiting for him to create distance between them so they could see eye to eye. "Call my name."

    "Oh, darling. Stop seducing me like that." His eyes glinted, lowering his head, cing short and soft kisses on her lips. "Do you love me?"

    Her mouth opened and closed despite his kisses, forcing her words out of her throat. "I love you," she breathed out, only to squeal another "ah!" as he thrust harder and deeper right after.

    "More," he whispered, moving his hips slow and steady, hitting her clitoris with every pound. He inhaled her deep and feverish breath, licking her jaw as if her sweats were sweet than salty.

    "Say it, Aries," he spoke through his gritted teeth, biting her earlobe without pausing from his steady thrusting. "Say it again."

    She felt lightheaded, her brain buzzing at the sensation that was drowning her. However, she managed to grasp his demands.

    "I... love you, Abel..." Her voice was shaky, trying to close her mouth, but couldn''t do so. Her back arched as he picked up his pace. Even so, the sound of their bodies pping against each other still resonated like a slow p.

    It was unlike how they usually do it бк starting slow only to hasten intensely like animals. Neither was gentle as if they were afraid they would break each other''s bones. Tonight''s round of passion was a mix of both. Not only his body was seeking dominance, but his heart was pursuing to be one with her.

    A right mix of love and lust, danger and security, submission and dominance.

    His every kiss would ignite her body and his every breath against her skin made her body shiver. Each time he would grunt in her ear, her core would clench, increasing her arousal. He would bite her shoulder once in a while, suck her neck and leave marks on her skin, but Aries was already drunk with pleasure while catching up to her breathing.

    Everything right now didn''t matter to her. All that was in her head was ''more.'' His all. She didn''t want to end it, but she didn''t ask him. She couldn''t, knowing he wouldn''t stop even when she was already bleeding. His stamina was bottomless and his hunger for sex was something no one could ever keep up; Aries can barely do.

    "Mhm... ahh... Abel..." she panted, feeling his back with her palm. Moving her hand down, she squeezed his butt while he thrust into her at a steady, fast, and slow pace. "I love... you..."<sub> </sub>

    The rest of her words drifted into his mouth as he imed her lips. His tongue slipped in between her lips, and her tongue weed it gracefully. They deepened their kiss just like how he dipped into her deeper. They kissed as if there was no tomorrow, taking each other''s breath away whilst tightening their embrace.

    After what seemed to be an eternity, Aries parted her lips from him as she gasped. Her nails on his tatted back dug into his skin, scratching him while her toes curled.

    "I can''t... take it anymore," she confessed in between her hitching breaths. Her face crumpled, mouth falling open. She couldn''t hold back and she could reach her orgasm any second now.

    "Thene," he pushed her jaw with his finger to make her face him. "Come for me."

    Abel bit her lower lip, keeping it in between his teeth, ignoring her nails on his back. He thrust in and out, taking his precious time until heat washed their lower region. Aries writhed underneath him, making him press his body against her. Her back arched as her toes curled while her knees closed in, flinching as she throb around him.

    His thrusting slowed down but continued, letting her clench around his girth. He felt her nails unpressed on his back, panting for air as if she had forgotten to breathe for the longest time. A surge of satisfaction swelled in his chest upon ncing at her side profile and seeing her lips curled up.

    Her eyes were staring over his shoulder and at the ceiling, slowly gathering her thoughts that were set aside by the pleasure.

    "Great?" he asked, leaning his face to her neck.

    Aries giggled, raising her shoulder and tilting her head slightly. "It tickles," but he continued to breathe through her skin.

    "Haha... Abel." She tapped his back mildly until he stopped. When he drew his head back, his lips were stretching from ear to ear.

    "I love you." Aries brushed her nose against him, kissing his lips mildly, eyes closed. "I love you, Abel. I love you... my wicked devil."

    He smiled, watching her create distance between them. The two of them looked at each other and chuckled after a minute of silence.

    "I think I''m a heretic," she humored, nting another kiss on the apex of his nose.

    "Careful now, darling. People might hunt you down with their torch and pitchfork."

    "They can try." She giggled yfully.

    "Aren''t you lovely?" he smirked, closing in and nting a kiss on her lips. To her surprise, Aries jolted when his hips moved again.

    "Wait." She flinched, clutching his shoulders to stop him. Her brows raised as her eyes shook, witnessing how his lips curl deviously while his eyelids drooped until they were partially closed.

    "You made mee with your mouth, darling. It will take time for the second round бк I think you forgot since I''ve been too lenient recently," Abel crooned, biting her jaw sensually. "I''ve just started."

    That second, Aries remembered Abel''s energy when he was purely aroused. He wouldn''t stop; he couldn''t. Especially now, Abel wouldn''t definitely pull out and take his precious time inside her.

    Aries was about to negotiate with him and ask for breaks in between, but s, with his slow thrust, she found herself wet again. In the end, her moans resonated across the room, along with the sound of their skin pping and deep breaths.

 Chapter 379 Ismaels Two Cents

    <strong>Meanwhile...</strong>

    Conan was pacing back and forth in a chancery while biting the tip of his thumb. His expression was restless, clicking his tongue and ruffling his hair once in a while.

    "Ugh...! I''m going crazy!" he sped his head in distress, making Morro, who was sitting on the settee near him, flinch. Thetter nearly tipped the juice he was drinking at Conan''s yells, looking up at Conan cautiously.

    "What am I going to do?" Conan hissed as he dropped his hand to his side. "His Majesty will surely go crazy again! He will kill me."

    "He will?" Morro perked up, rather thrilled with the news, only to receive Conan''s re.

    "Are you happy he might kill me?!" Conan sassed, and much to his dismay, Morro nodded. "This dimwit..."

    "Sir Conan, you are strong. Just run away before he gets his hands on you." Suddenly, Ismael''s voice reached their ear. The third prince, who was sitting behind his desk and was working on a few papers, raised his head. His eyes instantlynded on Conan standing in the middle of the office, and then he nced at Morro sitting around the set of settees while enjoying his snacks.

    Conan snorted. "Do you think it''s that easy? Unlike humans, who can''t even keep one promise, we''re different."

    "How?" Ismael cocked his head to the side, blinking curiously. "I mean, how do vampires keep their promises?"

    "Tch. I don''t need to exin it to you! Just do your own thing while I stress over things here, alright?" Conan rolled his eyes before pinching the bridge of his nose.

    "Vampires were cunning creatures. They rarely keep promises." Morro, on the other hand, was more than willing to fill Ismael''s curiosity. The third prince had been spoiling (bribing) him with snacks. "Because they don''t give their words easily. However, lower vampires can barely keep their ground against someone of His Majesty''s caliber. So even if he wants to run away, if His Majesty said he shouldn''t, then he wouldn''t."

    "Hey! I''m not a lower vampire!" Conan rebutted aggressively, miffed at how Morro put his words together. "I can make you kneel before me if I want to."

    Morro just looked at Conan with nk eyes before shifting his attention back to Ismael. "That''s not true."

    Ismael''s under-eye twitched, darting his gaze between Conan and Morro. Morro had been hanging out in his chancery ever since the hunting season ended. That was why the third prince was already used to his presence. However, Conan just barged in here an hour ago and he had been restless since.

    "Sir Conan, is there a reason His Majesty might want to kill you?" he asked out of in curiosity. "I don''t know if I can help, but wellбн I''ve been in situations where I nearly got killed."

    "No reason!" Conan''s answer was quick as he hissed, raising his hand in Ismael''s direction. "You don''t understand me. I''m not only worried about my life here. But he will destroy this world, alright?! He can''t do that when I haven''t gotten married yet!"<sub> </sub>

    "Whatбн?" A line appeared between Ismael''s brows, while Morro pped.

    "The vultures will have a feast, I see."

    "Shut up, Birdie!" Conan red daggers at Morro, who only thought of his own interest instead of the bigger picture.

    "Why would he do that?" Ismael blurted out. "I бк I mean, I know he is capable, butбн he could''ve done it before. Why now?"

    "Ughбн my arms are so tired of spoon-feeding everyone." Conan pinched the bridge of his nose in distress, dragging his feet towards the armchair and tossed himself on it. His legs were over the armrest and his back over the other, head dangling down.

    "It''s all because of your stupid brother," exined Conan in azy voice. "Lady Aries met her father-inw бк"

    "What?!" Ismael mmed his palms on the desk and sprung to his feet. "My father?!"

    "Oh, don''t be excited, Prince. Your father is good as dead since he is kept in a cage where he growls and eats. But my point here is that your stupid brother surely told Lady Aries his secret. Lady Aries will surely connect the dots she had noticed in Haimirich. After all, we weren''t cautious talking about us."

    Conan reopened his eyes. The room was upside down from his position. "I''m not scared for her since His Majesty will not harm her, but he will surely shift his anger to the rest of the world if she rejects him."

    Sadness and pity filled his eyes at the thought.

    "Humansбн they''re always like that. They''re kind and forgiving at first, but when they knew you are different, theyбн do unspeakable things. His Majesty deserves to be happy tooбн even though he deserved to die, he should at least be happy even for a fleeting moment," he continued in a somber tone, frowning as there were more things he didn''t voice out. "This world should give him some ck."

    Ismael looked at Conan''szy figure lying on the one-seater armchair. He slowly wobbled back on his seat behind the desk, leaning his arms against the edge of the desk. In his eyes, Conan might always be grumpy, but he sincerely cared for the sovereign of the Haimirich Empire.

    "You should trust her," the third prince muttered, picking up the pen to sign a document. "If Lady Aries is what I think she is, then being a vampire might be a shock to her, but it won''t y a big factor in her opinion and feelings."

    Ismael put the pen in its holder and folded the paper. Once he finished, he set his eyes on Conan''s unmoving figure. Another sigh slipped past his lips, unable to discern if Conan was even listening. But well, Ismael still wanted to give him two cents.

    "Don''t forget that she had met actual monsters, Sir Conan," he added with a sigh. "Being a monster is not all about appearances. Sure, humans are appalling for your kind and quite daunting with their bottomless ambitions. And vampires are intimidating whenever they bare their fangs and their nature alone. However, I believed Lady Aries saw something in His Majesty and in you people that others such as myself hadn''t."

 Chapter 380 Concerned

    "... I believed Lady Aries saw something in His Majesty and in you people that others such as myself hadn''t.

    "Are you saying you don''t like me? I thought we were friends?" Morro frowned as he ced the broken porcin back on the table that he had been munching when he finished his drink.

    Ismael smiled subtly and darted his eyes between the two. His eyes softened slightly, shaking his head before pushing himself up.

    "Friends is rather too soon for me to im," he replied, holding a folded paper before marching to the stand where his coat was hanging. Once he grabbed the coat, he looked back at the two.

    "But you were great allies to have. I wish you settle your issues and have a good oue." He lowered his head. "Sir Morro, will you assist me?"

    "Where?" Morro perked up. "This cup tastes good. Will you give me more?"

    Ismael nced at the broken porcin Morro had munched. He was almost astonished and frightened at Morro''s appalling nature because who in their sound mind would eat porcin? If not for the fact Ismael had been interacting with these people, he would run away with his tail in between his legs.

    But these people were just like that. If someone got to know them, they weren''t as scary as they would think initially. Although they could be quite extreme in some бк most бк cases, they were tolerable and quite fun. Therefore, Ismael was confident Conan was worrying about nothing.

    "Sure." He nodded while slipping his hand inside the coat. "It''ll be a good time to rile up someone since I heard the seventh prince disappeared from his cell."

    "Alright." Morro nodded, only hearing the first part, and totally ignored Ismael''s agenda.

    As the two walked away, Conan lifted his head, eyes on the door where they were heading.

    "Hey," Conan calledzily, making Ismael and Morro look back in his direction. "If you''re meeting the crown prince, make sure to anger him to death. Because if you didn''t, I will tease him until he cut himself."

    Ismael chuckled and smirked. "Getting in his nerves had been my forte."

    "Good luck." Conanzily waved, while Ismael looked at him for a moment.

    "You can watch from the balcony over there." Ismael pointed at the ss door leading to the balcony. "It might give you enough entertainment, and make you forget about certain things."

    The third prince beckoned a neck bow. "I''ll be on my way now, Your Highness."

    With that being said, Ismael marched away while Morro''s towering figure followed behind him. As soon as the click of the door caressed Conan''s ears, a frown dominated his face.

    "Your Highnessбн" he scrunched his nose up in dismay, a little annoyed at how Ismael addressed him. "That insufferable bird probably tattled. I''ll cut his tongue next time since all that mouth knows to say is stupid things."

    Conan just grew annoyed as silence filled the room. After minutes of grumbling and nning for Morro''s execution, he carried his weight until he was sitting up. He turned his head on the door and sighed.

    "I should watch themotion," he mumbled, dragging himself away from the chair to the balcony. "Lady Aries is surely on the move. His Majesty wouldn''t disturb her tonight, right? I still have time to think about how to persuade her."

    Conan sat on the balcony''s railing and convinced himself he still had time. However, minutester, his face contorted, and he sped his hair in distress once again.<sub> </sub>

    "Ugh!" he grunted in distress. "Of course, he would disturb her! He isn''t the type to let things sit for a while! I''m going crazy! Why am I even surrounded by crazy people?"

    Suddenly Conan paused, and his face stiffened. "That''s rightбн" he nodded, eyes gleaming with hope.

    "That Marquess!" he jumped and stood on the railings. "He can probably tell me since he likes Lady Aries more than that bitch Danie!"

    With that being said, Conan looked over the balcony and saw no one on the greenndscape. However, instead of jumping down, he sniffed hard and then jumped high until he reached the roof. Like a ninja, Conan skipped his steps, jumping from roof to roof, ignoring themotions on the ground floor.

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>SLAM!</strong>

    Joaquin''s eyes were burning, hands on the desk, grinding his teeth. Hernan, his aide, who broke the news about Roman''s disappearance, shuddered. Thetter took a careful step back to keep his distance, lowering his eyes. His expression was grim.

    "Howбн" came out a chilling voice from the crown prince, smoldering in anger. "бн how did he escape?"

    "I already deployed our people to hunt him down and closed all possible exits around the imperial pce. He hadn''t gone further for sure. We assumed they snuck in during the knight''s switching since that is the only time the penitentiary was left unguarded," Hernan exined solemnly, gulping the thick air filling the crown prince''s chancery.

    "Those bastardsбн" Joaquin ground his teeth, punching the desk once again, which caused his knuckles to bleed. "I will kill them all."

    "Your Highness."

    "How about Inez?" the crown prince inquired without looking at Hernan.

    "She''s still in her cell." Hernan nced at Joaquin and gulped once more. "Althoughбн I don''t think she will be helpful. The ninth princess isn''t talking."

    ? Joaquin snorted and set his sharp, burning eyes at his aide. "She''s not talking?" he tilted his head to the side.

    "Hernan, all the people I kept there were people who weren''t willing to talk." He pushed himself away from the desk, straightening his back, and wiping the blood on his knuckles with the handkerchief his wife gifted him. "If I wait for them until they are willing, I wouldn''t reach this far and will not gain the power I hold right now."

    His eyes glinted, smirking wickedly. "She doesn''t want to talk, then make her."

    As soon as thest sybles escaped his lips, Joaquin marched towards the door. His steps didn''t falter while Hernan followed closely behind the crown prince. However, when they reached the inner pce grounds, Joaquin''s emotionless countenance died again, stopping, hearing an aggravating voice from his side.

    "My, my, brother!" Ismael spread his arms, grinning from ear to ear, approaching the crown prince from the side. He stopped when he was at Joaquin''s arms-length, waiting for the crown prince to look back at him before he continued.

    "I heard what happened." The third prince frowned, but his eyes revealed apletely different sentiment. "Our dear little brother escaped? Myбн I''m concerned about the security in the imperial pce."

    The side of Ismael''s lips curled up. "Are you alright, Your Royal Highness?"

 Chapter 381 Youll Let Me Out?

    "Are you alright, Your Royal Highness?"

    Ismael raised his chin and his arms to his side when Joaquin grabbed his cor. Thetter leaned his face closer, eyes barely blinking that could send a chill down anyone''s spine. But s, the third prince was unfazed but rather amused. After all, I always was a win for him whenever the crown prince would react to his taunting. That only meant he hit a nerve or two.

    "If I ever know you are involved in thisбн" Joaquin narrowed his eyes, tightening his grip on Ismael''s cor. "бн you will wish you were never born, Ismael."

    "Don''t be like that, Your Royal Highness." Ismael kept his grin, unfazed by the thick aura exuding from the crown prince''s back. "How can I help a traitor like the seventh prince who is affiliated with the Valiente? A group that is against the monarch?"

    "Hahбн" Joaquinughed, studying Ismael''s demeanor while thetterughed with him. "You are gaining some balls, I see."

    "Well, you can say I''ve just been using them more recently, since screwing someone over is the best." Ismael raised his brows knowingly, but Joaquin was too keen to understand the other meaning of that perverse humor. "How was the crown princess, Your Royal Highness? I heard our dear little sister stab her out of jealousy. As your humble subject, I was on my way to see her."

    "See her? In thiste hour?"

    "I need to use my chances." Ismael shrugged. "You knowбн I somehow picked up this habit of fucking someone from behind, because this pervert here gets disappointed whenever I see their face and they''re not as beautiful as the бк"

    "Ismael." The third prince halted even before he could finish his sentence when Joaquin tugged his cor. "Keep your hands off my wife. I''m telling youбн I will not be so lenient if you ever touch the tip of her hair. Fantasize about her all you want, but that''s all you can do."

    Ismael pursed his lips and raised his brows, studying Joaquin''s expression. Augh broke out from him after several seconds, a little surprised how Joaquin got more furious when Aries was brought up.

    "Apologies, brother. I was just being a little yful to liven up your mood, but how dare I fantasize about Her Royal Highness?" heughed, clearing his throat to recover himself from this astonishing realization. "I am d that you seemed very fond of her. It puts my heart at ease that our future monarch has a great bond."

    Joaquin didn''t answer anymore as he examined Ismael''s annoying smirk. He believed the third prince had something to do with Roman''s disappearance. It would be dumb not to think that way since Ismael made sure to mock him and even brought up the crown princess just to get on his nervespletely.

    "You''ll regret angering me, Ismael." He slowly let Ismael''s cor go, only to bend over to brush his brother''s shoulder with the back of his fingers. "Struggle all you want, and garner as many forces as you want, butбн it''ll all be futile for as long as I am alive."

    <o>,m Joaquin smirked as he nced at Ismael''s side. "Good luck with your endeavors. I sincerely wish you could go all out and give me some challenge."</o>

    "Hehбн" Ismael smirked back at him. "I appreciate the best wishes. I bear the same sentiments, brother."

    Ismael slowly leaned forward to see the crown prince up close. Unlike before, when he would show the slightest annoyance, there was nothing Joaquin noticed but the oozing confidence from the third prince.<sub> </sub>

    "I sincerely wish you could go all out and seed with your ns. It''ll be a shame that you''ll emerge from it as aбн loser after all that effort and sacrifices." The third prince chuckled with his lips closed, straightening his back, and tugging the hem of his suit. "You can go to me if you need some help. I''ll dly deploy my people to search for our dear Roman."

    "Anyway, I''ll be on my way. This dashing prince here still had many things to do. May you find the traitor, Your Royal Highness." Ismael bowed slightly and smirked, darting his eyes between Joaquin and the silent Hernan before walking in the opposite direction.

    As the third prince walked away, Joaquin''s eyes glinted. He looked back and stared at Ismael''s back, narrowing his eyes as he noticed the towering figure walking next to the third prince.

    "Who is that person?" he wondered curiously. "Had he been with him all this time?"

    Hernan raised his brows and gazed at where Joaquin was looking at. He instantly caught the person, who had a towering figure under the cloak, and tilted his head to the side.

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness." бк Although Hernan didn''t remember paying attention to him, which was quite rare of him. The person was too huge not to catch attention, but they ignored him until Ismael and Joaquin''s confrontation was over.

    "Hernan." Joaquin breathed out, eyes sharpening. "Add more people in the third prince''s shadow бк never mind. Summon Javier at once. It seemed the third prince truly stepped up on his gameбн or rather, the person backing him up knows how to y with me."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    With that being said, Joaquin resumed his stride and headed to where Inez was kept. Hernan still followed him and only separated from him when they reached the penitentiary to execute the orders given to him.

    Standing in front of the cell, the light from the torches the knights brought with him danced on his face. His eyes fell on Inez, lying on her side, her back facing him.

    "Inez," Joaquin called in a low tone, but his voice still echoed in the silent dungeon. "Where did they take him?"

    Inez didn''t respond.

    The crown prince fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly and spoke once again. "I will only repeat myself once, Inez. If you want to leave this ce, don''t make it hard for me."

    There was another moment of silence in the dungeon. But before Joaquin could signal another knight on standby to open the cell, Inezughed. He watched her slowly push herself up and nced over her shoulder.

    "You''ll let me out?" she asked, moving around until she was facing him, revealing the cunning smirk stered on her face. "Give me your word, and I will tell you who exactly took him, brother."

 Chapter 382 You Can Know These Things

    <strong>[Warning: THE CHAPTER CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION.]</strong>

    The next day...

    "Ahh..." Aries arched her back, holding the headboard of the bed on either side of Abel. She bounced up and down, mouth open, moaning at the tension in herher region while he slurped her nipple and fondled the other.

    "Ahh... Abel... uh!"

    She flinched and her voice sounded distant in her ringing ear. She felt lightheaded as she panted, clenching around his girth. Aries shuddered when he bit her nipple, keeping it in between his teeth, raising his eyes up at her.

    "Feels good," she breathed out and hunched in, nting a peck on him. "Did you like it?"

    He grinned against her lips, kissing her back slowly. "Very much."

    "Haha... you enjoyed being defiled, huh?" she teased, biting his lips back to fight for dominance. With the chaos going on in the imperial pce after Roman''s disappearance, the two of them didn''t show the slightest care about the outside world other than the two of them.

    "Well, you caught me off guard." He chuckled, squeezing her rear, and massaged them. "With how you criedst night, begging me to take a break only to sleep, I didn''t expect to be woken up with your sucking."

    "I was trying to make up with you for that."

    "You''re quick." He bats his eyes, watching Aries draw her head back. As soon as she created a space between them, his eyes fell on her breast, and licked his lips. He raised his hand, cupping her breasts, which were perfect for the size of his hand. The body paint on her skin had faded, but one could still see the design across her body and the twirls reaching down to her hips and legs.

    When Abel raised his eyes up at her, he smirked in amusement. "You shouldn''t let them fadepletely."

    "Huh?" Aries gazed down, only to see the fading paint on her body. "Right..."

    She touched her hips, fingers flicked, feeling her body, and eyes at him. "You mentioned this is some sort of witchcraft."

    "It is, darling. But if you touch yourself like that, even witchcraft will not protect you from me." His eyes darkened, watching how her hands reached for his that were cupping her breast. "Sexy."

    "Is there a time you''re not hard?" she giggled, feeling his erection, which was still inside her while she was saddling him, poking her insides.

    "Whenever you''re not around, yes." He rocked his head. "You haven''t seen yourself in my eyes, darling."

    "Oh?" she arched a brow, intrigued as she leaned over. "What am I in your eyes, Your Majesty?"

    "Naked." His answer was quick, pulling her waist with his arm. "There wasn''t a time you stood in front of me wearing something."

    Aries frowned as she settled over him. "That sounds..."

    "Perverted? Surprise, surprise, your lover is the biggest pervert you''ll ever get to meet in your life." Contrary to his ims, the smile he shed was pure. His arms settled around her waist, stilling her, just in case she would stand up. He didn''t n to pull out; he preferred to connect to her, literally.

    "I don''t mind, so long as that lust is for me." She shrugged before touching her upper breast and the markings and hickeys he left. "Back to the main topic. What are these for?"

    "Protection."

    She snapped her eyes at him. "From?"

    "Harm?"

    "Abel..." Aries sighed, knowing he was aware those weren''t the answer she was seeking. "Will you keep me in the dark again? And hold back information? Am I in danger? I need to know that."<sub> </sub>

    "Darling, I''m not holding back any piece of information, and yes, you are in danger." His expression was innocent, making it hard for her to believe if he was serious. "The second yousted a day with me in Haimirich, people had already set their eyes on you."

    He then raised his other hand to caress the fading paint on the side of her breast. "Therefore, I need to make sure you are protected at all times. Or at least, until I get to where you are."

    "Those people... are...?"

    "Vampires, Witches, Wolves..." Abel shrugged as he listed the first on his list that had been attempting to take his life. "Or what sort of scheme you could''ve fallen? Especially from the work of witches."

    Aries furrowed her brows as she lowered her eyes. She didn''t catch the glint that flickered across his eyes upon stressing the word'' witches.

    "So that''s what they were..." she mumbled, nodding, still fascinated with all this unworldly information. "So witches and vampires are the same?"

    "No, darling."

    "Howe you know witchcraft?"

    His lips stretched. "Because I am Abel."

    "Right..."

    "I''m cursed," he added, watching her raise her brows. "Our blood is. Therefore, our family had been inclined to undo this curse for millennia. We learned things on the way, but never how to undo this curse."

    "And what is this curse?"

    "I don''t know." He shrugged.

    "Howe you don''t know?"

    "Because no one knew, darling," he returned with the same tone. "But what I and everyone know is... whatever it is, it''s not something to exist. Time can only tell, and we''ll all figure it out, eventually."

    Aries frowned, studying his eyes that were telling her it was the truth. Her brows, however, furrowed when he continued.

    "Why don''t you tell me, darling?" he asked out of in curiosity. "What is the curse that is running deep in me?"

    "How would I know that?" her frown deepened as the lines on her forehead grew apparent. "Who can know those things when the cursed one doesn''t even know what sort of curse befell his shoulder?"

    He smiled and fluttered his eyes coquettishly. "You," he leaned forward, nting a kiss on her curved lips. "You can know those things."

    Abel showered her with short and soft kisses until she was not frowning anymore. Drawing his head back, he shed her a subtle smile. He cocked his head to the side while she stared back at him in silence.

    "Bothered by the curse?" he asked, and she nodded without a second hesitation.

    "But that''s not what I am thinking right now," she exined, knowing he wouldn''t be this rxed if this curse was that urgent. "Before I can get into that matter, there were matters I must handle in the present."

    Aries drew a breath, looking at him straight in the eye. "I need your help, Abel. I don''t think I can drag the crown prince down without you."

    He rocked his head before the corner of his lips curled up wickedly. "I''ll be happy to help, darling. Anything for you."

    Her eyes glinted as she smiled, holding his dangerous gaze, and soon malice dominated her eyes.

 Chapter 383 What A Masterpiece

    "So?" Aries was lying on her tummy, using her folded arms as her pillow. Her eyes fixed on Abel lying on his side, propping his temple against his knuckles. His other hand casually caressed her back.

    "Is my situation that hopeless to render you to silence?" she asked when a minute of silence passed after informing him of her dilemma.

    "No." Abel blinked ever so tenderly and shook his head.

    "Then why are you so silent? I can''t help but overthink."

    "I was... amused, darling." He shrugged. "I can''t help but wonder if you seduced mest night because you need me for this matter."

    "Of course not. Goodness, my darling beloved. I love you." She frowned, fluttering her eyshes coquettishly. But s, her sweet reply only raised more suspicion.

    "You''re using me?"

    "No... I''m not... how dare I...?"

    Abel looked at her emotionlessly, noticing how she bit her tongue to suppress her teasing smile from resurfacing. But no matter how she tried to keep a sincere countenance, her eyes had always been so clear of her intention. She was teasing him... but he didn''t mind.

    "You shouldn''t tease me, darling." He smacked his lips. "Unless, of course, you want me to hang you on the wall like a painting where I would tease you to frustration."

    "But I''m not teasing you." Her frown deepened. "But why hang me on the wall like a painting?"

    "So I can look at you while sitting in my chancery? And then say, that is god''s masterpiece."

    "Pfft--!" Aries bit her lower lip to suppress herughter. "That sounds exciting."

    "For you and me, maybe it was stimting." He shrugged nonchntly, moving closer to her to nt a kiss on her temple. "Want to try it today?"

    She giggled, one eye closed. "Unfortunately, Your Majesty is not in Haimirich, but currently an ambitious Baron." Aries rolled slowly until her back was lying t on the mattress while he crawled on top of her.

    "An ambitious Baron who is quite... sessful, I believe." He winked.

    "And why is that?" Aries raised her chin, feeling his tatted, firm chest with her palm. "For being able to sleep with the mad crown princess?"

    "Is there any other achievement worthy to call sess in this ce other than spending a night with the most stunning woman in the world?" He settled on top of her but watched his weight.

    "That''s a big word."

    "But not a lie."

    "You make me blush."

    "I hope that made you feel ten years younger as well."

    "It definitely did." She giggled, biting her lips, anticipation filling her eyes. "I feel like fifteen again. Thank you very much for bringing back my youth."

    "You''re wee." Abel lowered his head and imed her lips, while she snaked her arm over his shoulder.

    "Your dilemma... I got it," he whispered into her mouth before parting lips with her. "Do you trust me?"<sub> </sub>

    "What is your n? If that is total destruction, I''ll bite you."

    "Now, that sounds tempting." He arched a brow and smirked. "Being bitten is akin to saying, fuck me from behind. But I guess you are aware of that already."

    Another short giggle escaped her mouth. "I thought it''ll mean I can enve you for a day."

    "Am I not considered a ve already?" he humored and chuckled with his lips closed, brushing the tip of his nose against hers. "My darling knew my weakness very well. After waking me up with good morning sex, you asked me to do a task, and I agreed because she was grinding her hips on me. I am so, so weak."

    "My goodness, Abel. You are so dramatic."

    "I should weep now that realization dawned on me."

    "Come on... Sir Conan is the only one who will get disappointed. But I''ll be happy."

    Abel drew his head back, stretching his lips from ear to ear. His countenance was theplete opposite of his woes moments ago.

    "This is why they say men are simpletons and women can destroy a nation just by whispering in their lover''s ears every single night." He sighed. "Sex is a deadly weapon, that''s for sure."

    "Just tell me if you don''t want to help me, so I can keep you in a safe box."

    "A safe box called coffin? My, my... now I''m even more afraid of my life."

    Aries giggled, securing her arms around his neck. "Stop stalling. Tell me. What should we do, Abel? As much as I hate it, I had to show up to certain people today."

    "That is the main reason I am stalling. If I tell you what I am thinking, you''ll leave me."

    "Aww... will that make you sad?"

    "No, it''ll kill me." He frowned. "I don''t want to share you... especially now."

    "And this arc will not end if you change your mind now."

    "Ugh... trust me, it will end overnight if I want to."

    "But that is also another way of saying I worked hard for nothing."

    "Dear Lord, she''s so maniptive. I''m at a loss." Another sigh slipped past his lips, but she giggled in return. Abel traced her jaw with the apex of his nose, nting short and soft kisses on her ear.

    Aries breathed out, stretching her neck to give him better ess. She ran her fingertip over his back, knowing where this teasing would lead again. But she would happily go on another round of passion with him; she was obsessed. Just like him, Aries hated to part ways with him right now.

    If only she could stay in his arms forever, she would. However, they were in the Maganti Empire. Not that she was afraid to get found out now, but they already had ns. Total destruction was not the goal. Her goal was to destroy Joaquin from the inside and take everything the crown prince worked so hard for.

    All she needed was for Abel to tell her what rattled her wasn''t a problem and it wasn''t a hopeless case. In that case, she could improvise her ns. But with his hands feeling the outline of her body and his kisses, Aries was certain they would talk about itter.

    But when Abel breathed in her ears, his deep, rasped voice tickled her. Her eyes, which were slowly clouding with lust, showed rity as she listened to him.

    "Oh?" her lips curled up into a smirk as her eyes fastened in amusement. "That simple?"

 Chapter 384 No One Was Above Him -- Not Even The Law.

    "That simple?" Aries loosened her arms around Abel''s neck while thetter pushed himself to create distance between them.

    "Yes, darling. That simple." His lips stretched from ear to ear. "It''s not even worth stressing for."

    "How will I know that if you didn''t tell me beforehand?"

    "Oh, I''m sorry. My bad. Fear overwhelmed me." He shrugged, pertaining to the fact he kept things from her out of the sheer thought of losing her. "But I''m making up for you now, am I not?"

    Aries rolled her eyes and chuckled, rxing her body underneath him. "Are you a hundred percent certain you can do it?"

    "Darling, you truly know how to insult like a god." He snorted. "So divine."

    "I''m simply trying to rify it for a better understanding of things."

    With a pair of crimson eyes hovering over her, Aries held her breath. When the corner of his lips curled up devilishly, she couldn''t react fast as he swiftly flipped their position. She only realized it when she was saddling him, gazing down at Abel, wide-eyed.

    "No one is above me in this empire and even out бк not even thew, but look at you," he intoned with a devilish smirk. "Staring down on meбн so daunting."

    Aries bit her lip, nting her palm on her inked chest. "Your Majestyбн"

    "Do you now understand the power you hold, darling?" Abel carefully wrapped his fingers around her wrist, chuffed by her reaction. "Only you, Aries, may go above me and the only person in this world who can look down on me. No one else."

    He raised an arm and ran his fingers through the side of her hair, settling his palm on the back of her head before he pulled her down until her face was a palm length away from him.

    "You better use this at your own disposal," he whispered, tilting his head as he lifted it up to im what''s his. HER.

    Aries grinned against his lips and bit them gently. "Expect no less from me," she whispered into his mouth before sticking her tongue inside his mouth.

    And with that, the two of them went on with another passionate time together, as if it was theirst day in the world. Nothing mattered at the moment. Just the two of them, tangled in a slow dance, creating a harmonious melody with their moans and bodies in contact, hearts beating in sync.

    They sucked each other''s breath, leaving the other breathless. And yet, they felt more alive than ever. Touching each other in dire need to find where their hands would settle, biting each other''s skin until their teeth marks marked each other, scratching only to soothe it with a careful caress.

    Aries and Abel went wild the entire morning, ying a dangerous game of love and lust. And both of them... were professional yers. Those who sat at the same table as them to gamble against them better had useful cards at hand, or they would lose everything and get buried in debt.

    <strong>******</strong>

    Everything still felt surreal for Aries. She couldn''t believe the newfound information etched in her head. But the lingering touch of his hands on her skin and her throbbing core from all that lovemaking was the proof everything was real.

    What happenedst night wasn''t just a figment of her imagination. Those hauntingly beautiful wings, dangerously alluring fangs, and his pair of crimson orbs that glowed so wonderfully like rubies under the moonlight. They were real.

    Abel was real.<sub> </sub>

    But the fear she feltst night had long left her heart. All she could feel was excitement, a purpose, and love. He was beautiful бк a beautiful mess. A loving monster no one had ever tamed.

    Aries smiled at the thought of him. ''I love him and miss him already.'' She giggled, arching a brow at the servant, scrubbing her arms gently.

    As soon as the servant felt the crown princess''s attention, she lowered her head and scrubbed her with more care. Aries wasn''t saying anything and simply gazed at the servant.

    ''That''s frighteningly amazing,'' she thought, recalling that this servant had met Abel when Aries summoned her to prepare her a bath. At first, Aries was a little anxious, but the servant acted as if Abel wasn''t there in the room with her. He didn''t tell her what he did but simply winked at her.

    And that was how Aries was now in the bathroom while Abel left with an excuse she wouldn''t finish if he stayed. But he reminded her, though. The servant would only forget about seeing Abel, but everything else would get into the maid''s head.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line and leaned back, arms resting over the tub''s rim.

    "Wondering how I got so many hickeys, are you?" she broke the silence calmly. Aries''s body was full of hickeys that her fading body pain couldn''t hide. So, she understood why the servant, who was wiping her body, was giving her an odd look. Joaquin didn''t visitst night, after all.

    Where the hell would Aries get all this? By praying all night? Of course, no one was that foolish to think the crown princess was that banal. She was ying with fire.

    "If Gertrude is here, she will understand," she crooned, cocking her head to the side. The second her eyes fell on the servant sitting right beside the tub, the servant flinched.

    "Will you tell my husband?" she asked, making the servant shake her head almost immediately. "You should, though. If you did, he might reward you and tell you to keep an eye on me."

    Aries peeled her eyes away from the servant to the high ceiling. "Although there is a small possibility he will throw a jab at you out of anger, he won''t kill youбн hopefully."

    The servant''s hands that were cleaning the crown princess''s fingernails trembled. However, she remained silent since she might die in the crown princess''s hands even before Joaquin beat her to death in a fit of rage. Aries knew that, and that was the main reason she wasn''t afraid to tell all this to the servant.

    "Tell meбн" Aries blinked ever so tenderly, wrapping her fingers around the servant''s trembling hand. She waited for the young maid to raise her gaze until she was looking back at her.

    "Will you sell me out to my husband and tell him the crown princess was being unfaithful because I was never satisfied with him?" she cocked her head to the side, sporting an innocent look.

    The servant''s lips quivered and her eyes shook, sensing the unspeakable dread running up her spine. Everyone in the Sapphire Pce knew the crown princess wasn''t any less vicious and mad as the crown prince. Aries could summon a knight right now and order the servant''s death while she was taking a bath. That sheer thought alone terrified the poor servant.

    "How бк how dare I?" came out a stuttering voice.

    Aries smiled. "Right? Why would you dare?" she squeezed the servant''s fingers and pulled her closer.

    "Say a word, and you die. I won''t. Joaquin believes everything I say, and even if he undresses me, these paintings on my body will do the job to cover up my infidelity." She patted the servant''s cheeks lightly. "Be smart, little one. And choose your own nightmare."

    Aries leaned back and chuckled with her lips closed, enjoying the paleplexion of the servant. Well, her best friend and lover, who was also her fiance and future husband, was the most confident person in the world. So his personality would rub off on her.

 Chapter 385 Meanwhile

    Meanwhile, in the ruined castle near the Sapphire Pce where Roman was hiding. Conan was pacing back and forth restlessly. Roman was still sound asleep, but hisplexion grew better thanst night. Dexter, on the other hand, was sitting on the armchair beside the bed, eyes on the person on the bed, but his mind was drifting somewhere else.

    "A little help here?" Conan eximed when he couldn''t take it anymore. "I came here, so you can help me figure out how to persuade Lady Aries!"

    Dexter blinked ever so slowly, shifting his eyes to the person standing several feet from the bed. "I already told you. I can''t help."

    "Ughбн! I thought you were thinking about it!" Conan sped his hair in distress. "Why am I here then?"

    "I don''t know."

    "I''m here, suffering every second with your presence because you told me you''ll help me!"

    "I don''t recall saying such a thing." Dexter bit his tongue, but his poker face remained. He did tell Conanst night he would think of a n. It was his way of shutting him up. But Dexter had nothing to think about, knowing Aries and the decision she made before parting with him.

    In other words, Dexter was simply helping Aries to make these people overthink and beat themselves. It was her form of punishment for keeping her in the dark. Dexter was just d he didn''t have to suffer all night, just like Conan.

    ''Alsoбн her scent pervaded the airst night.'' He thought, ncing at the distressed Conan. ''He''s so busy thinking about other things he didn''t notice it. Or maybe, the burnt scent of this room blocked his nose.'' бк whatever the reason, Dexter was certain Conan failed to notice that little detailst night.

    "If you are that worried His Majesty will screw things up бк like he always does бк why did you leave him alonest night?" asked Dexter, causing Conan to stop grumbling about his woes.

    Conan scrunched his nose up in dismay. "Why would I stay with him?"

    "To stop him from meeting her, perhaps?"

    "Funny. Are you joking, Marquess?" Conan snorted. "If I have the power to stop His Majesty, Haimirich wouldn''t have to be under that insufferable Duke''s spell just so it operates. And you and I will not be here."

    "But being here helped, did it not?" he added. "We didn''t know Maganti is a breeding ground for witches, and not just that, but the crown prince had this grand n of building an army of turned vampires. Lady Aries will be in great danger if she''s all alone in this ce. Worse. She''ll never make it alive."

    "And the point here is?" Dexter arched a brow. "I don''t think that has any connection to my primary inquiry."

    "I don''t think it does too! But you see, there were certain things that His Majesty does that somehow prevent the worst from happening!"

    "So, you''re basically telling me you left His Majesty, thinking he will persuade her? Sessfully?"

    "Wellбн hopefully." This time, Conan let out a deep exhale and frowned. "Since it''s their own issues, to begin with. If she loves him, then she will ept who or what he is, right? If she epts him, then she will ept us too. And everyone will be happy."<sub> </sub>

    Dexter studied the gloomy air over Conan''s head. "You liked her?"

    "Of course!" Conan clicked his tongue at the stupid question. "She''s the only witch I will like, alright?"

    He then skipped his steps and nted his palm on the surface of the bed. "Also, just think of it like this. If Lady Aries joined us, then Duke Deadmore can just die! We don''t need him."

    "That sounds tempting, but Dani knows nothing about that."

    "She can learn!"

    "No." Dexter shook his head. "She shouldn''t learn more than she had ever known."

    "Hahбн?"

    "You know very well what witches can do."

    "Are you afraid she will steal your thunder?"

    "This isn''t about as petty as that." Dexter''s voice was calm, but his eyes were solemn. "You know what witches can do, and the powers they wield are not just harmful to others, but to themselves as well. ording to my investigation, Maleficent is not just a witch. But she is the best of the best. Do you know how she died?"

    "Some say the same humans she protected from extinction persecuted her. But others say she died because of her own ck magic. No one knew what sort of power or how powerful she was. One thing is for sure, though. Witches were harmful not just to others, but also for themselves," he added. "Knowing Dani, she wouldn''t mind sacrificing her own limbs or life just to do something crazy. Once she did that, even if we inject all vampire blood into her, nothing will save her."

    There was a long silence between the two after Dexter''s exnation. Witches were human, but they were a much moreplicated type. Turning her wouldn''t be easy if she became a full-blown witch. Abel had already known that, for sure.

    "Anyway, that is not something we can decide," Dexter spoke after minutes of silence. "It''s hers to decide, but right now, she had to focus on the matters here. This ce turns my stomach every passing second."

    Conan sighed and nodded. "You''re right." He then frowned in distress, as more and more things clouded his head and they were all problems with few options for a solution.

    "This is the price of my vacationбн if I have gotten married, I would''ve said it''s worth it. But it''s not." He sighed for the umpteenth time before snapping his eyes. Both Conan and Dexter arched a brow and shifted their attention to the approaching footsteps.

    Soon, a shadow came into sight, and then a figure stood by the open entrance of the burnt castle room. Aries stopped. Her gaze fell on Dexter and then at Conan. The second she locked eyes with Conan, the side of her lips curled up.

    Seeing the vicious smirk stered on her face, Conan''s heart sank. ''She hated him,'' was the first thing that came into his mind.

 Chapter 386 Do You Know Her?

    "Lady Aries..." Conan pushed himself away from the bed and faced Aries. Studying her stony countenance, his lower lip quivered.

    "Yes, Sir Conan?" Aries quirked a brow and tilted her head to the side. "What a surprise to see you here."

    Conan frowned, sensing the distance attached to her voice. He remained quiet for a moment before he lowered his eyes. To Aries''s surprise, and to Dexter, they watched Conan wobble down to his knees. Both of them furrowed their brows, scrunching their nose up while Conan rubbed his hands together.

    "Please don''t hate me..." Conan wept as if he was a child, afraid to get his butt whipped.

    "Are you... crying?" Dexter asked in disbelief, seeing little tears filling Conan''s eyes.

    "Shut up!" Conan roared, ring daggers at him before shifting his attention to Aries. The second he did, his sharp eyes were reced with puppy ones.

    "Lady Aries, please forgive me and His Majesty. We kept things from you because you might get angry and get scared! I know we''re just protecting ourselves, but you have to understand. Give us a chance to exin ourselves..." He continued on and on, exining and asking her to give them a chance. He even recalled their memories together and how happy they were. Not just that, but Conan even told her many things, such as wanting Aries to be his "best man" if he had gotten married, and the sort.

    "... we promised to survive together! Don''t kill me too soon..."

    While Conan was prattling on and on, Aries tilted her head to the side. She couldn''t help but nce at Dexter, and thetter shrugged innocently. Dexter then set his eyes back to Conan, clearly enjoying where would this unfold.

    Because of Conan''s loud pleas as if they weren''t in hiding, Roman''s eyes underneath his eyelids flickered. The seventh prince opened his eyes ever so weakly, furrowing his brows at the striking pain that went into his head. The room was dark, fortunately, but the noise was giving him a headache.

    Roman nced down to his feet to see what was going on. There, he first saw Aries''s figure, and then Dexter on the armchair right beside the bed. And then Roman saw another person kneeling and begging for his life.

    Did Roman wake up at an execution hour? Conan was squealing like a pig, and it was rather amusing that he was doing it when the other person was unarmed.

    "Did you overdo it?" Aries broke her silence, ncing at Dexter.

    Thetter immediately shook his head. "I said nothing, and it''s his fault for jumping to conclusions."

    Hearing their exchange of words, Conan halted. He darted his eyes between the two in confusion, before he noticed Dexter running his tongue across his inner cheek to stop himself fromughing.

    "You..."

    "Sir Conan." Aries let out a quiet sigh, catching Conan''s attention before thetter could berate Dexter. "Don''t me my brother. I was the one who asked him to keep things from you since you lot kept me in the dark."

    She shook her head and marched inside. Standing beside Dexter and near the bed, she studied Roman, who was still blinking weakly.

    "I was angry at first бк scared, even, but it''s not like it changes many things." She cast Conan a knowing look, feeling a bit guilty. "I have other things to think about, and this truth is not the painful truth to bear."

    "Lady Aries..." called Conan in a muffled voice, eyes twinkling, heart moved by her words.

    "Stand up there. You''re making me look bad." She shook her head mildly once again, before pping Dexter''s shoulder with the back of her hand. "Don''tugh at him."

    "I''m notughing."

    "Your eyes do."<sub> </sub>

    Dexter bit his lower lips and shrugged, watching her roll her eyes. When he nced at Conan, he didn''t hide his ridiculing smirk, making Conan''s blood pressure to peak.

    "I''m going to kill you today...!" Conan''s voice shook as his nose red, smoldering in anger with the humiliation he came face to face just now. But before he could jump and strike the Marquess, Aries raised a hand at him.

    "Shut up, will you? There''s a patient here," she warned indifferently, keeping her eyes on Roman. "How are you, Your Highness?"

    Aries bent over and pushed his shoulder de down when Roman tried to sit up. "Rest. You need it."

    "Violet..." Roman''s voice was rasped, wincing at the scratch in his throat saying that name.

    "She''ll be fine."

    Roman panted, sweats breaking out on his forehead. "How are you sure she is?"

    Aries didn''t respond to him while holding his eye contact. Hisplexion was better than yesterday, but he was still far too weak. At this rate, he would bepletely useless if he didn''t focus on his recovery.

    "I''m not. I haven''t talked to Ismael," she answered honestly. "But even if Joaquin seeded, he won''t kill Violet and her children immediately."

    "Ugh!" The seventh prince ground his teeth and tried to sit up, unsatisfied with her answer. But he was too weak to even fight the hand pressing down on his shoulder de.

    "That''s not enough," he hissed through his gritted teeth. "Princess Violet, she --"

    "She''s fine." Suddenly, Conan''s voice rang in their ears. Aries nced at him, watching him dust off his pants as he stood from his knees.

    "The third prince sent reinforcement when he came to know about your arrest. Fortunately, they arrived right on time and rescued the princess and the little princes. They were now in a safe house, protected by the third prince''s people and some Valiente disguised as knights," he continued, and then faced them. "The third prince likes me, apparently, and he gloats about his achievements."

    "Are you --"

    "I am sure," Conan answered with an indifferent shrug even before Roman could finish his sentence. "I was with himst night before I came here asking for this insufferable marquess''s help."

    Conan red daggers at Dexter once again, but thetter simply averted his eyes. Meanwhile, Aries heaved a sigh of relief before gazing down at Roman.

    "You heard him. Princess Violet is safe. No one will harm her. Ismael will keep his word to you unless he also wants to anger me." Aries carefully retrieved his hand from him and straightened her back. "We need you to recover as quickly as possible, Your Highness. We are already at a war. It might not appear on the outside, but we''re already there. Your people, the Valiente, will need you and you need to be there for them when that timees."

    Roman breathed out heavily, holding the sharp eyes hovering over him. For obvious reasons, he wanted to believe her. Violet escaped the imperial pce because of the crown princess''s help. And Violet was obviously grateful to Aries. He wanted to take onest gamble and put all his faith in her.

    For thest gamble. Roman hoped he would win this time.

    "That maid..." his brows furrowed when Aries spoke after a minute of silence. "Years ago, I had this young maid in charge to take care of me. But one day, she just disappeared and was reced by another."

    Roman slowly held Aries''s gaze once more, and for the briefest second, he caught sadness flicker across her eyes.

    "Do you know her?"

 Chapter 387 [Bonus Chapter]You Left A Witness?

    "Do you know her?" Aries asked, even though she kept the details vague. There were tens of thousands of servants working in the imperial pce. It would be hard to remember all of them, so it was quite a ridiculous question.

    "Oбн" But Roman slowly averted his eyes from her and set them at the ceiling. "She was sentenced to death. I kept reminding her to simply keep an eye on you and grit her teeth. Butбн she''s young and naive. She didn''t listen to me and nned to help you escape."

    A tear suddenly rolled down the seventh prince''s temple, recalling that young maid''s bright smile, and her mangled face when he came to clean up her body. "She was found out even before she could go to you and help you escape."

    "I seeбн" Aries breathed out, secretly clenching her teeth, and swallowing down the tension building up in her throat. She already guessed the young maid had died for some reason. After all, people die in this ce and no one would bat an eye since anyone could rece them with a snap of a finger.

    The only reason Aries remembered her was because that young maid treated her properly and with sympathy. When she thought of Bean, she would also recall that young maid. It was saddening that a young maid like her died when she couldn''t keep her eyes closed at the injustice urring right before her eyes.

    "When she diedбн I told myself I will help you one way or another," Roman continued after a long pause. "I wanted to honor her will. She fought not because of you, but for thisnd gued by a monster ying as the crown prince. However, you escaped on the same day I nned to abduct you in that neutralnd."

    "That''s fate, I guess," she replied solemnly. "If you helped me before I helped myself, I will be a Valiente andбн we will all surely die."

    "Dying while fightingбн there''s no greater honor to die while fighting for what we believed."

    "There''s no honor in death." Aries balled her hands into a fist. "I can''t believe I will be saying this, but that''s a fact."

    "Believe whatever you want to believe, but you can''t change my mind."

    She rocked her head. "I''m not trying to change your mind. In fact, I had shared the same sentiments in the past." Aries nced at Dexter and then at Conan, smiling subtly at them.

    Aries used to be like Roman. She didn''t mind dying for her people. She bore honor with it. However, Abel shredded this pride to smithereens. Not that he degraded her beliefs, but just the fact that people had over romanticized this sentiment about death.

    Once a person was dead, they were dead. However, if they all backed down for a bit and kept their short lives, they could change things. Not immediately, but they could do something to change the situation, eventually. Albeit, baby steps.

    "Enough with the past." Aries huffed and loosened her fist. "I appreciate your ns, even though it didn''te to fruition. Butбн we had to focus on the current matters at hand."

    Roman remained silent before casting her a look. "Inez," he stressed. "She knew you''re the one who took me out of that hell. How are you certain she will not talk?"

    "There''s a witness?" Conan chimed in disbelief, gazing at Aries up and down. "You didn''t silence her?"

    "You should''ve told mest night," Dexter added in a solemn tone.

    The three men in the dim room that barely had light seeping through the cracks on the concrete wall and the debris blocking the windows outside looked at Aries. The side of her lips curled up into a smirk.<sub> </sub>

    "She won''t," Aries affirmed calmly.

    "Inez is cunning. She will say everything you want to hear and do unspeakable things just to get what she wants," Roman reminded her. "Don''t get fooled by her."

    "Being fooled is not knowing they are deceiving you." Aries smacked her lips, keeping her smirk. "You''re right. Inez is one cunning fox, but trust me, she won''t."

    Conan, Dexter, and Roman creased their brows, sensing the confidence emanating from her. Aside from Roman, who was familiar with the ninth princess'' antics, Dexter and Conan had been in thisnd for a good amount of time to understand the people surrounding Aries were all crazy one way or another бк well, they were also crazies, but they wouldn''t admit that themselves.

    "How are you sure she won''t rat you out?"

    "Becauseбн" her eyes glinted, ncing at everyone before her eyesnded on the seventh prince. "бн she won''t make it easy for Joaquin. And Joaquin doesn''t have long patience to spare."

    Hearing that argument, Roman remained silent and then nodded in agreement. Inez was too prideful to make things easy for Joaquin. The crown prince already punished her, so Inez had nothing to lose anymore.

    "Oh, what''s this? You''re all here?"

    Suddenly, the third prince''s voice reached everyone''s ears, making them turn their heads. There, by the open door, stood Ismael. Thetter blinked twice, scanning the faces around.

    "Am Iбнte for the party?" he raised his brows awkwardly. "The mood here is a littleбн dark, isn''t it? I hope it''s not bad news. I haven''t celebrated the fact that the crown prince is in a crisis."

    "What do you think you''re doing?" Curtis'' voice suddenly came from behind Ismael, bumping his shoulder as he entered the room. "You''re in the way, move."

    Ismael frowned and red at Curtis back, watching thetter marched towards Aries. As soon as Curtis stood several steps from the bed, his eyes instantly locked with Aries.

    "Modesto had made his move. The Capital is in turmoil about the news regarding the illegal casino owned by the crown prince."

    "Hey! How dare you break the news before me?" Ismael stomped his feet inside, stopping near Curtis. "Want me to beat you up?"

    Curtis nced at him indifferently, but didn''t respond to him. Meanwhile, Roman furrowed his brows at Ismael''s presence. But what truly shocked him was that Curtis, that man, was walking and talking.

    "Howбн"

 Chapter 388 [Bonus Chapter]Monster

    "Howбн"

    "That doesn''t matter." Aries nced at the seventh prince before setting her attention back to Curtis. Her lips curled up and nodded in satisfaction. "The chief justice will be in danger."

    "Tch. Don''t worry about that." Ismael huffed. "I sent a few of my people and the Valiente to evacuate the children under the protection of the church. That is what Minister Vida wants, and the sole reason Joaquin had him by the neck. He said he didn''t care if imposing justice for once will cost him his life, so long as those children will be safe."

    Aries nodded. She had already expected such determination from that man, who turned a blind eye to the injustices for the sake of the people he wanted to protect. As mentioned, everyone in this ce had reasons they became deaf and mute.

    "Also, that knight, Climaco, heбн led the group to a safe ce. Quite surprising he knew more things than others don''t," the third prince casually added.

    "Where is he?"

    "He sent a word and told me to tell you everything is prepared."

    "His brothers alright?"

    "They''re with the children."

    "Good." Aries nodded in satisfaction, pleased to hear that everything was in motion. After several seconds, her eyes glossed over their faces.

    "Now, on to the second phase." Her lips curled up and the corner of her eyes squinted. "However, we need to have a change of ns."

    "Huh?" Ismael frowned. "Why do we need to change ns when everything is in motion?"

    "Because Joaquin is Joaquin and he will not go down easily. Do you think he will not drag down everyone бк especially you with him?" she cocked her head to the side.

    "The crown prince is a tough opponent, and he deserved that praise, that''s for sure." Dexter, who was still sitting in the armchair, nodded.

    "What? I don''t think he is that foolish," Conanmented.

    "He is foolish," argued Dexter, casting Conan a knowing look. "What made him foolish is trusting misinformation."

    "What? This sounds new to me."

    "That''s because you were in vacation mode, Sir Conan." Aries fought herself from rolling her eyes as she gazed at the confused Ismael, the unfazed Curtis, and the speechless Roman.

    "You don''t know about it?" she asked the seventh prince. Seeing the deep lines appear in between Roman''s brows, she already got the answer.

    "Of course, you don''t. Joaquin doesn''t trust you just as much as you think he did. He trusts Javier more."

    "Javier?" Roman and Ismael both repeated in a questioning tone.

    "That bastard? Is Joaquin out of his mind?" asked Ismael in dismay.<sub> </sub>

    "Apparently, Javier isn''t as simple-minded as he portrayed himself, Your Highness, the third prince. The fifth prince, Javier, is more than his lustful nature." Aries exined, walking leisurely towards Dexter''s chair. Thetter moved his arm and let her take a seat on the armrest.

    Aries stretched her legs, hands on the armrest and on either side of her, eyes on them.

    "Javier is conducting research," she exined, and that rang a bell in Ismael''s head.

    "You meanбн"

    "I''m surprised you already heard of it, Third Prince."

    Ismael frowned. "I''m working hard here, oy."

    "Javier is the one leading these inhumane experiments under the crown prince''s orders," Aries continued, ignoring Ismael''s sentiments. "You don''t know that, Seventh Prince."

    Roman breathed out and shook his head mildly. "Apparently, no."

    "Joaquin is experimenting on humans and ns to turn them into monsters." Aries didn''t beat around the bush and broke the news. However, only Roman was the one who was shocked by this. Ismael simply frowned as the lines on his forehead deepened. Dexter and Conan surely knew about this бк they always do. Meanwhile, Curtis didn''t show any change in reaction.

    "The crown prince won''t stop there. He also nned to turn himself into one and his years of hard work and patience will soone to fruition," she continued solemnly, gazing at Dexter. "You know about this, brother?"

    "I''ve checked the location of this research facility. So far, there were only a few knights who seeded in retaining their will and were held in until they can control their hunger. However, during the recent yearsбн it seemed they found a way to build up their army," Dexter exined since that had been what he was doing since stepping foot in thisnd. Aside from protecting Aries from a distance, Dexter had to broaden his horizons to see the bigger picture.

    "Although there''s a catch on this method," he added. "Those who undergo this procedure will have a short lifespan. But this short time is enough to subdue any resistance and put the empire under his thumb."

    "You meanбн"

    "He''s going all out to secure the throne and end you and the Valiente Group." This time, Curtis voiced his understanding of this matter, and then nced at Ismael. "He will rule as a tyrant."

    "Or y God," Conan chimed in while rubbing his chin. "Goodnessбн that man''s ambition is limitless. It''s quite scary. Fortunately, spending years beside His Majesty already numbed me from all these things."

    "Waitбн" Roman narrowed his eyes at the striking pain in his head. "бн I''m not following."

    "What they were saying is, Joaquin had bigger ns than ascending the throne. It might be hard to believe, but to make it simple, he had sold his soul to the devil to be an invincible monster. Literally a monster," Ismael stressed, knowing how hard it was to believe all these things. He would doubt it if he hadn''t seen it firsthand, but these people exist.

    ? Dexter, Conan, Abel, Morroбн Ismael had met those people. Curtis was one of the proof there were things that were beyond humanprehension that the emperor kept a secret from everyone.

    "Whatбн monstersбн?"

    Conan let out a silent sigh before walking toward the bed. He stood across from Aries and Dexter, ncing at them. No words were exchanged happened, but when Conan gazed down at Roman, he bent over slightly.

    "Yes," he spoke under his breath, allowing his fangs to reveal themselves, as his copper eyes changed to bright red. "Monsterбн just like what you are seeing right now. Are you following now?"

 Chapter 389 That Is The Plan?

    "Monsterбн just like what you are seeing right now. Are you following now?"

    Roman held his breath at the glowing pair of rubies hovering over him. His eyes fell on those long fangs, which he witnessed grow. The sound of bone cracking as Conan''s fangs grew tickled his ears, sending unspeakable dread up his spine.

    When Conan blinked, his red eyes reverted to their natural color. And when he pushed himself away, his fangs grew back into short canines.

    Aries pped slowly. "That scares me," she remarked, gazing down at Dexter.

    "No," Dexter uttered with a straight face, ncing at her inquisitive eyes in return. "I will not show you mine. They''re not for disy."

    Aries frowned. "Stingy."

    "Hey, you! If Lady Aries hated us because you don''t want to show her yours, I will strangle you to death!" Conan pointed at Dexter and huffed. It took him a lifetime of courage to show this side of him, and yet Dexter was being a diva.

    "No." The Marquess'' expression remained stoic, stirring Conan''s emotion even more.

    "It''s alright." Aries waved and then gazed at Roman. "I hope that is enough for you to understand what we''re talking about, Your Highness."

    "Howбн" Roman''s lips trembled. "бн how is that possible?"

    "I was just as shocked as you, Rome." Ismael sighed. "But they exist. This world sheltered not just humans and animals, but also people like them. But that isn''t what''s important."

    "Humans are far crueler than the monster they deem," Curtis chimed in, locking eyes with Aries, who offered him a subtle smile. "The primary dilemma here is not them, but what an ambitious and vicious human, such as the crown prince, could take advantage of this fact."

    "Joaquin wants to be just like them," Aries continued, filling Roman''s head with new information without a break. "Not only is he aiming for the throne, but he also sought forever youth and strength that surpassed humanprehension."

    "In other words, that bastard wants to rule forever," Conan added with a nod.

    "Which is why he is foolish." Dexter voiced out. "Human turning to a vampire is alreadyplicated as it is, butбн it is not impossible. Even so, there were more cons in it than the benefits."

    "What do you mean by that?" asked Ismael, as he had a general idea about everything, but was also unaware of the bigger picture. All he knew was if the morphing was sessful, they were most likely to be powerful бк ording to Morro.

    "Morphing is the easiest part. But unlike what you believed, vampires aren''t invincible," Dexter exined. "Vampire still die. They had long lives, but they still die."

    Aries nodded. "I heard."

    "I seeбн" Ismael breathed out a sigh of relief. "I thought once his nse to fruition, it''ll be the end for us."

    "It''ll be the end for you if we''re not here," Dexter corrected in a knowing tone. "One way or another, you have a higher chance of survival since my sister is here to help, and we''re here because of her."

    "That''s right. You should bow down to her." Conan nodded, having to agree with Dexter for the first time.

    "I agree." Curtis set his eyes on Ismael and nodded encouragingly. "Bow down."<sub> </sub>

    Ismael frowned, darting his eyes between Curtis, Conan, and Dexter, who were looking back at him in silence. Meanwhile, Aries rolled her eyes and shook her head sideways.

    "Stop teasing him," she said, only for her face to contort when the three replied in unison.

    "We''re serious."

    "Fine, fine!" Ismael huffed and submitted, knowing he should hug Aries''s thigh since she was the sole reason there was hope in this seemingly hopeless situation. But before he could go down and bow to worship Aries, thetter spoke.

    "Stop it." Aries pinched the bridge of her nose in distress. "You''re getting out of track. Your praises will change nothing."

    "I rememberбн" Roman, who was keeping his silence while forcing himself to register everything in one go, panted for air. "бн Joaquin had sent an order."

    As soon as thest syble escaped his lips, all eyesnded on the man lying t on the bed.

    "He was distributing something which the knights and I, myself, drank. He said it was something to help us with our fatigue." Roman swallowed down the tension in his throat. "I couldn''t afford to raise suspicion, so I did it with Hernan. He had sent this order days before my arrest."

    "I thinkбн the research had finallye to fruition, and he is just waiting for the perfect time to strike," he added under his breath, dread filling up his chest.

    There was a long silence that fell into the dim room after Roman''s confession. Ismael couldn''t help but ball his hands into a fist, his heart thudding against his chest. Meanwhile, Aries''s eyes darkened, but she didn''t show any sign of surprise.

    "I figured that will happen," she whispered. "Although it is surprising, it urred sooner than I expected, but it is to be expected."

    "He''s really amazing, isn''t he?" Conan mumbled, showing the opposite reaction, unlike Roman and Ismael.

    "He won''t reach this far if he is lesspetent," Curtis admitted since Joaquin deserved that acknowledgment. The crown prince might be vicious and would stop at nothing to achieve his goals, but he was also cunning and wise. They wouldn''t gather here today if dealing with Joaquin was that easy.

    There was only one person who could deal with Joaquin without raising a finger, but that person wasn''t allowed to participate. Abel would surely run wild and destroy the entire Maganti Empire while counting the innocent lives as mereбн casualties. It would be a mistake to rely on a ticking time bomb like him.

    "What''s your n, Dani?" Dexter was the first one to break the silence. "I will assist you this time, and you won''t get to say no. Or else I''ll drag you back home until you reflect on your actions."

    Hearing this, Curtis quirked a brow. "You sound familiar," he pointed out, making Dexter nce at him, but thetter said nothing.

    "My n?" Aries smacked her lips before its sides stretched from ear to ear. "A wedding."

    "Huh?" Everyone looked at her бк even Roman бк in confusion. Seeing the misced smile on her face, their brows creased together.

    Aries smirked. "Isn''t that the reason we''re here? To n my wedding? Abel already told Sir Conan what he likes to have at our wedding. It''s my time to add my wishes, don''t you think?"

    "бн"

 Chapter 390 The World Is

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the crown prince''s chanceryбн</strong>

    Joaquin was sitting on the chair behind the desk, his feet on it. He was holding a ss of rum, gripping it until ripples appeared on the surface of the alcohol inside.

    "Inezбн" he narrowed his eyes, which emanated killing intent.

    The thought of Inez brought this unspeakable anger to his chest. His breathing grew heavier as his mind drifted back to the urrencest night.

    "Give me your word, and I will tell you who exactly took him, brother."

    Joaquin squatted down to look Inez in the eye. She had this wicked smirk on her dirty face and the mockery in her eyes was apparent.

    "And what do you want in return?" he asked. "What sort of promise would you want from me, Inez? I''m sure freedom isn''t the only thing you would want in return."

    The side of her lips stretched broader. "Your arm, Joaquin," she dawdled, moving her face closer to the metal bars between them.

    "Give me your arm, and I will tell you who exactly took him. I swear this information will be usefulбн and worth a limb."

    Joaquin chuckled with his lips closed, amused by her condition. "I knew you''d ask such a thing."

    "Oh, Joaquin, our dearest crown prince, and soon the emperor of this rottenndбн" Inez caressed the metal, moving her face closer to get a better look at his dashing face. "Not only he is charming, but he is also wise and untouchable."

    She studied his facial structure and smirked. "It never crossed me how much of a coward you were, Your Royal Highness. You always carry yourself with pride of nobility, but now that I think about it, you are nothing but a coward."

    "Dearest sister, try harder next time." Unfazed by her taunting, Joaquin shed her a smile. "You can say anything you want, but s, they were simply empty noises barked by a dog."

    "It was fun, though," he added, lips stretching from ear to ear. "Watching you fight and gained a footing in the royal court, only to lose your control and get framed by the type of person you loathed the most. It wasn''t in my n, but my wife is impatient to get you out of the picture. Do you want to take revenge on her? I might help you put her in her ce."

    Inez''s smile line faded, blinking twice, cocking her head to the side. "You areбн afraid of her?"

    "Me? Afraid?"

    "Hahбн" augh broke out from Inez, looking back at him in amusement. "How amusing, Your Royal Highness. You want your wife, but then, you disliked the sheer thought she might pose a threat to your power in the future? She''ll be heartbroken if she realized her husband only wants to suppress her radiance."

    Inez moved her face closer until it was touching her hands that were holding the metal bars, eyes on him. "Oh, Joaquinбн aren''t you a pathetic little thing? You should marry a doll if fucking is the only purpose of having a wife. But well, your wife isn''t foolish to believe you бк at least, she would realize it sooner than you can. I am waiting for that to happen andugh in your face while saying, what does it feel to give your all, only to get defeated by the type of person you loathed the most?"

    Her lips stretched in excitement, making her eyes squint. Watching his smirk fade was just the cherry on top.

    "I underestimated your sharp tongue. I thought after going through hell, you''d be tamed. But it appearedбн I was being too lenient." He scoffed, watching her shrug nonchntly. Joaquin studied the triumphant grin stered on Inez, making his skin crawl in irritation, but on the surface, he remained calm.

    "Don''t me me, Inez. I tried to negotiate in peace for the sake of the blood running through our veins." Joaquin pushed himself up and nced at the knights on standby. "Make her talk."

    "Hah!" Hearing metals grazing each other as the knights moved, Inezughed. Joaquin ignored her as he marched away. However, just as the cell creaked open and they dragged her out, Joaquin stopped and looked back at her.

    "Manuel will always be the rightful heir of the throne, Joaquin," Inez spat out, ignoring the arms holding her shoulder. She kept her eyes on him whilst shaking her head.

    "For the sake of the blood running through our veins? Hahбн don''t make meugh, Joaquin. A lowborn like you will never be worthy to evenpare to Manuel. You can''t evenpare to his ghost."

    The sound of the sword being unsheathed echoed the moment Inez''s words slipped past her lips. The knight flinched, seeing that Joaquin drew his sword and was now marching towards Inez.<sub> </sub>

    "Hahahaбн! Kill me, Joaquin. I want to see you try бк" Her breath hitched, mouth open, and her voice disappeared in a snap of the finger.

    Everyone could only hear the blood spurting and covering the damp, dirty concrete floor.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    The knights holding Inez were too shocked they loosened their grip on Inez''s arms, making her copse on the floor, face first. Blood soon pooled underneath her body, with the sh across her face down to the center of her body. Joaquin struck her from the head, almost splitting her head in half, which instantly led to her death even before his sword reached her navel.

    She''s dead.

    Joaquin looked down at her, eyes clouding with anger. "Now that''s better," he muttered emotionlessly, not even batting an eye.

    "Laugh again, Inez. I want to see you try." He smirked, sending a chill to everyone who witnessed his action. Joaquin tossed the sword to the side, letting it ring for everyone to hear. Without a second hesitation, he turned on his heel and walked away.

    "Feed her to the vultures. She doesn''t deserve a proper funeral." He nced over his shoulder, seeing knights bow, while his steps didn''t falter.

    Joaquin smirked as he recalled Inez''s demise. Although he didn''t get to hear any information from her, he already knew Inez wouldn''t talk.

    "Pathetic bitch." He downed the rest of the rum in the ss in his grip, hissing, before throwing the ss which shattered against the wall. "How dare shepare me to that damn Manuelбн"

    His eyes oozed with killing intent. "I''ll fucking kill her again if I can."

    Knock Knock

    Three knocks came from the outside of the chancery before it was carefully opened. Javier peeked his head in and carefully tiptoed his way in.

    "Well, I hope I won''t die with the news I''m about to tell you," he chuckled awkwardly, closing the door behind him.

    "You didn''t find Roman?" Joaquin didn''t look in Javier''s direction, still seething in anger.

    "No. We didn''t. But the Minister of Justice raided one of your casinos, and everyone is now talking about the human trafficking they had uncovered." Joaquin''s eyes darkened as he slowly set his eyes on Javier.

    Javier raised his hands. "Don''t kill me, because I prepared good news so I can leave this room in one piece." He cleared his throat, taking advantage of the situation before Joaquin get eaten by anger.

    "Here." Javier took out a small bottle and ced it on the desk, grinning wickedly. "It''s done, Your Majesty."

    Joaquin''s eyes fell on the small bottle that contained red liquid. He reached for it and kept it in between his thumb and index.

    "Modesto Vidaбн" he smirked, eyes on the small jar. "He''ll regret siding with Ismael."

    His eyes glinted as he held the bottle within his grasp, raising his eyes at Javier. The two of them smirked and held each other''s gaze.

    "The throne is all yours, Your Majesty."

    "This world is," Joaquin corrected.

 Chapter 391 [Bonus Chapter]Now Or Never

    "Dani."

    Aries looked back when a hand grabbed her wrist to stop her from leaving. She raised her eyes and tilted her head as soon as she locked eyes with Dexter.

    "Yes?" she asked.

    Dexter let out a quiet huff and let her go. He nced at the entrance behind her, and then around the room. Everyone already left while Roman was resting to recover as fast as he could. It was best to talk to her now regarding her ''n.''

    "Leave," he remarked, causing her brows to furrow. "After this, leave. Don''t go back to Haimirich."

    "What?"

    "Listen to me, Dani." Dexter advanced a step, holding her biceps. His eyes were solemn. "Abel... he isn''t just that, Dani. I hate to break it to you, buting back to Haimirich and sticking with him бк with us бк isn''t the wisest decision. You don''t know himpletely."

    Aries returned his gaze for minutes before her lips parted. "I don''t know him?" she whispered, eyes gleaming with rity.

    "Abel is more than just what he seemed to be, yes. He is a monster who kills without conscience, he survives by taking another person''s life, and sometimes, for fun. His existence alone is a sin. The world is at risk just because he walks on the surface of this world and is not rotting a hundred feet under." Ariesughed weakly, eyes shaking slightly. "I don''t know himpletely? He is fickle and violent; a person who is unpredictably dangerous. He is someone who doesn''t care about anything else, but his own interest. A walking red g. Tell me, brother. What else can you say about him I haven''t known yet?"

    For a moment, Dexter was unable to respond. All he could do was stare back at her, trying to find his lost voice. When he did, a low voice came along under his breath.

    "He will kill you," he confessed, squeezing her biceps lightly. "This... is not forever, Aries."

    "Hah..."

    "Trust me. Think of yourself as his new Haimirich. Back then, he would do anything for Haimirich and then you came, and he shifts his obsession. There will be a time when someone new wille, and you... will share the same fate as Haimirich. He''ll leave you alone and go to anothernd." Dexter solemnly stressed his words so she would understand his point.

    "How long did he obsess over Haimirich?" she asked after a minute of silence. "A millennium?"

    Aries smiled bitterly, holding his hand that was on her bicep. "If he gets tired of me after a millennium, then I can say I had a millennium with him. Even if it''s a decade or just a year, brother. I don''t care. My sentiments will be the same." She squeezed his hand, nodding encouragingly at him.

    "It might sound banal, but I had already decided and I know I might it regretter. However, denying him, you, and everyone... I will still regret it forever," she continued. "I know you''re simply trying to make me reconsider, but there is nothing to reconsider anymore. Because if I changed my mind, I''d rather kill myself after this."

    "That had always been my n, after all." Aries let go of his hand and after several seconds, Dexter released her shoulders. "I appreciate your concern, but you really do not have to worry about me, brother. I don''t n to change Abel or his nature, neither I have ns to change you and how you perceive him."

    "I just want to live my life ording to my values." Her lips curled up ever so slightly. "I''ll be on my way. Please look after Roman. I need him."

    Aries idled for a moment and simply looked him in the eye. When a minute had passed in silence, she turned on her heel and walked away without looking back. Meanwhile, Dexter stood in the same spot even when her light footsteps vanished.<sub> </sub>

    "She''s so stubborn," he whispered, balling his hand into a fist. "If you already knew you will get hurt in the end, why don''t you listen to me?"

    "Because that is love." Dexter turned his head in the bed''s direction where Roman was lying.

    Roman weakly opened his eyes and instantly caught the burnt ceiling. He was supposed to rest and sleep, but he couldn''t and identally overheard Dexter and Aries''s conversation.

    "Love is an uncontroble force that is stupid to fight or stop," he voiced out his sentiments, understanding the crown princess''s reasons. "It is moronic, but you''d rather get hurt than let go of the infinitesimal chances of bing happy even for a moment with that person. That person might hurt you intentionally or not, but it doesn''t matter."

    Roman gulped to soothe his drying throat. "You just want to be there for them in good times or bad, even if we''re not in that person''s happiness any longer. You might not understand that, but that is how I understood Her Royal Highness. Because at the end of the day, even if Princess Violet turns out to be a monster, I''ll feed her my limb if that means she will survive for a day."

    "That''s why you''re lying there now." Dexter dragged his feet and perched on the armchair beside the bed. "Because of your own foolishness."

    "But I don''t regret it," Roman argued, ncing at the marquess. "I don''t regret the blood I had spilled and the lives I had taken. My only regret is letting her get swept by a fraud and watching her suffer and done nothing."

    "Even more foolish now," Dexter remarked, watching Roman move his head until their eyes met.

    "I can say the same to you, my Lord. You''re foolish to think you can even stop her, knowing she won''t change her mind."

    "I had to do what I need to do." He shrugged. "We might not share the same blood, but she''s my sister. If not for her, even if His Majesty won''t do anything to this ce, I would."

    Roman studied Dexter before he peeled his eyes away from him. "I won''t stop you because this empire deserves destruction. It used to be a wonderful ceбн how are you certain I will recover? These injuries won''t heal with just rest and even if I recover, I would be handicapped."

    "That person Curtis had a more serious problem, but he''s fine now," said Dexter, waiting for Roman to look back at him. "Rest as much as you can. In that case, you can fight the blood that will heal you."

    Roman''s brows furrowed after Dexter''s remarks, but he didn''t ask any questions anymore. All he did was study Dexter''s emotionless countenance before he nodded.

    "As long as I can fight for a day, I''ll try."

    "Your standards of life are far too low," Dexter replied. "Her order is to make sure you get out of this in one piece."

    He leaned back, propping his jaw against his knuckles, eyes closed. "She knows she might get a tragic ending, so she is trying to y a hero or a matchmaker. You should propose to that princess once everything is over. There''s no use in idling since humans have short lives."

    "How dare Iбн" Roman cleared his throat.

    "Grow some balls, will you? It''s funny how you take another person''s life without batting an eye, but can''t even confess to a woman you''d been fantasizing about for years. Give thedy some ck and never allow her to initiate before you. You''d kill ady''s spirit." Dexter''s voice waszy, rolling his eyes underneath his shut eyelids. "It''s now or never, Prince."

 Chapter 392 [Bonus Chapter]Realization

    "It''s now or never, Prince."

    For someone who barely survivedst night, Roman pressed his lips into a thin line. His pale and scarred cheek was painted in light red with the sheer thought of confessing to Violet.

    ''Confessбн'' he gulped, hearing his own swallow echo in his ear. ''Such an insolent thought.''

    While Roman was suddenly having a crisis in the heart, Dexter opened one eye. Seeing Roman stare nkly at the ceiling, he couldn''t help but shake his head mildly.

    ''Even if I don''t hear his thoughts, I already knew what he is thinking.'' Dexter nearly scrunched his nose up in dismay. ''He really likes that princess. Did he think she is stupid not to notice?''

    His eyes narrowed while staring at Roman, allowing himself to get distracted by something trivial instead of wallowing in Aries''s stubbornness.

    ''How do I make Conan propose to that Princess?'' he wondered, knowing Conan was breaking records in proposing todies just after exchanging three words with them. ''That might help this person to gain some courage.., but then again, he allowed his brother to snatch his woman and even have children.''

    Dexter shook his head mildly, closing his eyes once again. He realized this matter was not worth his time, but even so, in his head, he still thought of ways for this cowardly seventh prince to confess to thedy who captured his heart at first nce.

    ''Loveбн'' his eyes cracked open once more at the thought of that word. ''бн is an unstoppable force one shouldn''t fight. How scaryбн to even think Abel fell for that.''

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ Crown Prince''s chancery ]</strong>

    Joaquin stood in front of the window with his hands behind him. His eyes narrowed, seeing more and more people flock to the entrance of the imperial pce, screaming whatever the hell they were shouting.

    "They''re asking for an exnation." Javier, who was sitting leisurely on the futon with his feet up on the coffee table, broke the silence. He was swirling the exquisite wine mildly while gazing at the little whirlpool it created.

    "Any minute now, the chief of justice will barge in here with his forces to invite you for questioning," he added with a smirk, setting his squinting eyes on the crown prince''s back. "Once the investigation starts, if Modesto Vida followed the protocol, he will uncover more, Your Majesty."

    Joaquin smirked as he slowly turned on his heel, marching towards the armchair around the set of chairs in the chancery. "What a fool," he remarked, bending over to pick up the decanter and pouring himself a ss.

    "Did he think smearing my reputation is my weakness?" he chuckled, making Javierugh as well. When Joaquin picked up his ss, he leaned back while his eyes fell on Javier.

    "I worked on it since I do not want a hindrance with my nбн" The ss in his hand hovered over his smirk. "бн but I don''t need it anymore."

    Joaquin chugged the wine in one go, hissing in satisfaction. "My great Maganti won''t need people like Modesto Vida or Ismael Imperial."

    "How about Rome, Your Majesty?" Javier quirked a brow. "He''s still out there."

    "What can Rome do in that state? He''s probably busy grunting and fighting for his dear life."

    Javier chuckled. "Butбн what if Ismael had been truly affiliated with any witch?" he inquired, knowing he already nted more of his people in Ismael''s shadow after Joaquin''s concernsst night.

    "Then the witches can all go." Joaquin cocked his head to the side indifferently. "I worked with them for mutual benefits. They killed that insufferable Manuel and made me the crown prince, but how I got this far is all due to my own efforts. On the other hand, I gave them the freedom to settle in mynd."

    "If they can''t keep their word, then I don''t need to keep mine. After all, they benefited from me and I, likewise," he continued with the same nonchnce, as the witches'' existence didn''t pose a threat to him anymore. "We do not need to put up with each other any longer."

    Javier rocked his head and raised his ss. "I offer this ss to your sess, Your Majesty." When Joaquin smirked at him, Javier downed the wine in one go and hissed in satisfaction.<sub> </sub>

    "Anyway, I need you to do something for me," Joaquin uttered, making Javier raise a brow while wiping his lips with the back of his hand. "Circe. Draw her blood sample and work on it."

    "Pardon?"

    "A king needs a queen, and she will be my queen." Joaquin leaned back, looking up. The wickedness dominating his face slowly softened with the thought of marrying his wife just as the two of them nned.

    Javier went silent while studying Joaquin''s side profile. He pressed his lips into a thin line, stopping himself from opposing Joaquin.

    "Alright." The fifth prince rocked his head in understanding, pouring himself another ss. "The crown princess is wise and cunning. Even though her body seemed to be covered with body paint, it''s amazing. What do they mean, anyway?"

    Joaquin set his eyes on Javier. "You mean her body paint?"

    "Mhm." Javier nodded and then leaned back with the ss of wine in his hand. "I noticed them when I bumped into her the other day. It piqued my curiosity since I heard the emperor of Haimirich is also covered with permanent ink. I never heard of it as a tradition."

    "It''s not a tradition, but it isn''t a new practice for the people in Haimirich to paint their body." Joaquin chuckled as he peeled his eyes from his brother. "It suits her."

    "Is that so?" Javier nodded once more before he shrugged. "Well, there''s no way I will ever get to see theplete artwork. I still value my life."

    Joaquinughed as he thought of his wife''s body paint. "It''s actually justбн" he trailed off, narrowing his eyes.

    ''It''s actually justбн'' he repeated in his head, recalling his first night with Aries. He had seen the body paint on her thigh, around her upper breast, which snaked around her upper arms.

    Howeverбн now that he thought about it, Joaquin couldn''t help but meet a dead end. He couldn''t remember what Aries''s body paint looks like as a whole.

    "Hahбн" Javier raised his brows when Joaquin let out a short, menacing chuckle.

    "Your Majesty?" the fifth prince called curiously. When Joaquin returned his gaze, a chill ran up Javier''s spine. That second, Javier was certain whatever thought that crossed the crown prince angered and amused Joaquin to the core.

    But s, the side of Joaquin''s lips curled up. "I will tell you what her body paints look like in the futureбн" he then downed a mouthful of wine and hissed.

    "That''s for sure." His eyes glinted.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the Sapphire Pceбн</strong>

    "Your Royal Highness, it is prepared." A servant weed Aries with a bow as soon as she returned to her room. The side of Aries''s lips curled up as she gazed at the servant.

    "Very wellбн" Aries rocked her head. "Help me get over with it."

    "Yes."

    With that being said, Aries pushed the door wide open while the servant followed closely behind her. Her smirk remained as they headed to the bathroom to fulfill Joaquin''s wishes.

 Chapter 393 I Made It Up

    In the crown prince and the crown princess''s schedule, they would have to dine together to maintain a good rtionship between the two. Today was one of those days they would share a meal. But instead of dinner, Joaquin moved it to lunch.

    Sitting on the end of the small rectangr table, Joaquin stayed silent while waiting for his wife. His head was filled with questions and madness of how the hell he couldn''t remember a single memory of Aries''s body paint. All he could recall were those on her thighs and shoulders бк the ones that were exposed while wearing her revealing night dress.

    There was only one answer he coulde up with. His dearest crown princess was fooling him from the beginning.

    "Haha..." a weak, amused chuckle slipped past his lips. "Circe... my sweet dearest Circe."

    His eyes glinted with malice, smirking dangerously. Joaquin drew a deep breath and closed his eyes to rest them for a bit. Never once he had forgotten the fact that his wife came from thend of Haimirich; and that was ruled by a vicious tyrant. The crown prince wasn''t foolish to disregard what the emperor of Haimirich could possibly want from this union.

    After all, this marriage favored the Maganti Empire. There must be something they wanted, and that thought had always been in the back of Joaquin''s head.

    "Circe..." Joaquin slowly reopened his eyes, but not fully. "What should I do with you, my love?"

    He tapped his fingers against the armrest, wondering if his initial guess was correct. What if his wife was Aries? If she was, she was truly a talented one for making him believe her lies.

    ''If only she had green hair...'' he thought. ''She will be Aries.''

    There was a long silence in the private dining hall for the future monarchs. He listened to the silent taps of his fingers against the armrest, wondering what he should do to his wife. If what he thought was correct, then this would change to an entirely different game.

    The crown princess... was working against him behind his back since she stepped foot in the imperial pce. That also meant everything she did from Carlos'' execution to the fire in that castle... was to hide the traces of her involvement in everything that was happening since she came to Maganti.

    There was no greater coverup than portraying herself as someone slightly involved in every incident, instead of staying away from every issue. In that way, no one would suspect her since she would im her involvement, but use the excuse of bearing a different intention and give another oue as a diversion.

    ''She''s smart... and that is not impossible.'' Joaquinughed weakly once more, stretching his neck from one side to the other. ''But... does it matter now?''

    "Her Royal Highness had arrived!"

    Joaquin nced at the shut doors and smirked as soon as he heard the announcement from the other side. He leaned back leisurely, watching the door open ever so slowly. For some reason, the door opened slower than usual, highlighting the long creak, which echoed in the dining hall.

    He held his breath the second his eyes caught the person standing in the middle of the door. His pupils slightly dted, watching his wife prance inside gracefully.

    "Greetings to Your Royal Highness." Aries curtsied when she was several steps away from the table. "I''ve been looking forward to seeing you, my husband."

    She straightened her back and raised her chin, twirling her finger around the tip of her green hair. "Do you like it, Joaquin?"

    "Haha..." heughed, staring at Aries with that green lock cascading past her exposed shoulder des.

    ''Of course, it doesn''t matter,'' he told himself, getting the answers to his own questions. ''Because at the end of the day, no matter how much she struggles... she belongs to me. Circe or Ariesбн'' бк it didn''t matter what was her name. Because he had already nned to make her Aries.<sub> </sub>

    "Come here." He propped his elbow against the armrest, raising his hand. He clipped the tip of her green hair when she stood beside him, smiling subtly at the colors in his hand. When he raised his eyes, he tilted his head with his lips stretching even broader.

    "You dyed it?" he asked since green pigment was left on his prints.

    "You don''t like it?" she returned. "I thought you''d be happy if you see this change."

    "I am happy. Come here." Joaquin reached for her wrist and yanked her on hisp. Her eyes widened for a moment, clutching his shoulder, raising her head to meet his charming face.

    "It looks perfect," he crooned, caressing her jaw with the back of his fingers. Looking at her up close, there was no doubt this was his favorite doll, his Aries. However, he didn''t say it. There was no fun if he wouldn''t y along.

    Aries bit her lower lip, squashing down the disgust crawling under her skin from his lustful gaze. "I''m d you liked it. I''m preparing for our wedding, after all. Howeverбн I heard about themotion outside."

    "Don''t worry about it, my love. They will be dealt withter." His smile remained, tracing her neck with the back of his fingers down to her exposed shoulder. "You already knew about my n. So, you shouldn''t fret."

    "How about the seventh prince?" she asked, ignoring the sensual touches on her shoulder des.

    "The seventh prince, huh?" Joaquin snapped his eyes ever so tenderly and held her gaze for a moment. He didn''t dwell on it though, as his gaze veered to her shoulder. Using his fingertips, he slid the thin strap of her dress until it fell over her shoulders.

    "Aside from that trivial question, there''s something I would like to know, Circe." He raised his eyes to her, slowly wrapping his fingers around her neck. He observed her, waiting for any reaction, but she didn''t show any sign of fear or rm.

    "What was the meaning of your body paint again?" he asked. "The scriptures under your breast."

    Aries smacked her lips and shrugged. "Just some proverb about the importance of the heart."

    "Is that so?" he smiled, nodding in understanding. "How about the tiny shapes on the other? The small three circles."

    "They''re part of the art." She smiled.

    "Liarбн" he whispered and smirked. "I made it up, wanting to see if you would correct me or not."

    Aries held her breath as she pushed his chest, only for his arm to tighten around her waist. His grip around her neckpressed, strangling her with might.

    "Do you think I won''t find out one way or another, Aries?" Her face contorted at theck of oxygen, feeling her body leave hisp, and her back hit the surface of the table right after. Some tes underneath her back broke, piercing through her dress and onto her skin.

    Yet, Aries could only open her mouth for air and hold his wrist.

 Chapter 394 The Cat Is Out Of The Bag

    "Do you think I won''t find out one way or another, Aries?"

    <strong>CLANG!</strong>

    The sound of porcin breaking caressed Aries''s ears, but unable to dwell on the stabbing pain in her back as Joaquin pressed his hand into her throat. His eyes were glinting, sneering as he pressed his body against hers to make her feel the shards piercing through the fabrics of her clothes and onto her skin.

    Aries winced, feeling sharp pieces of ss dug deeper into her back. "Joaquinбн" she gasped, digging her nails into his wrist.

    "What are youбн sayingбн?" came out a muffled voice through her gritted teeth, still denying the truth until this very second. "бн can''t breatheбн"

    "I''ve been asking myself since this morning what I should do with you, my Aries. I told myself I will y along, butбн I can''t help it." Joaquin frowned, watching how her face turnedpletely red, and yet she was still denying it. "I need to punish you for being so, so naughty, right? You know my rule, my favorite. You can''t just fucking y with my fucking head and get away with it."

    "Stopбн I can''tбн breatheбн" Her eyes heated as she ground her teeth. In this situation, Aries felt like reliving those haunting days with him. The days he would try to kill her or at least make her suffer to the brink of death, only to let her live for more horror.

    Her body trembled at the thought that was slowly manifesting in her. Her brain was screaming at her to fight, loudly and hysterically, reminding her she had ovee this already. She shouldn''t let this trauma devour her again and make her return to how she was.

    ''Don''t grit teeth your teeth anymoreбн'' her own voice came to her head as one tear rolled down her temple. ''Fight now. It''s alright to fight now, Ariesбн it''s alrightбн you made it this far.''

    Aries gasped once more and slowly let his hand go. She moved her eyes to the side, catching a knife in the area that was left untouched by them. Aries returned his gaze and ground her teeth while slowly creeping her hand to reach for the cutlery.

    But s, just when she touched the cold silvers with her fingertips, Joaquin released her neck and grabbed her hand. Without a second hesitation, he pinned her hands over her head.

    "You think I won''t notice, my love?" he sneered deviously, enjoying the hatred resurfacing in her eyes. "You want to strike me? But that''s bad!"

    Aries spat at his face. "You will regret this, Joaquin," she warned with a shaking voice. "Youбн will regret this."

    "Will I?" heughed, lowering his head until his face hovering over her was only a palm length away. "How will you make me regret my love? Shouldn''t I be the one telling you that?"

    Hisughter grew even more sinister. "You were good бк always so perfect. But sometimesбн your stubbornness just ruins it all. I mean, what''s there to lose, Aries? I fucked you many times. You can''t even count, and we even had a child together." His lips stretched until his teeth were showing.

    "If not for those arts on your body to hide your shame, I will never find out, my love. Never." Joaquin lowered his face, brushing the apex of his nose against hers. His mouth fell open, inhaling her deep breaths.

    "It''s alright. I am not as angry as you think I was." He calmed down and breathed out. "I missed you, Aries. You have no idea and I am so excited to have you back in my arms."

    Aries clenched her teeth as his weight pressed on her, making the shards underneath her body sink deeper.

    "This time, I promise, I will never let you go," he whispered, running the tip of his nose to her cheek, feeling even more excited at the vibration of her body against his. "I''ll still marry you just as nned and make you my queen. This time, I will prove to you just how much I love you."

    "I''m notбн Aries," she denied through her gritted teeth, staring daggers at him as he pushed himself away. He frowned the moment their eyes met.<sub> </sub>

    "You''re still going to deny it?" he sighed like a maniac whose confused about which demon should control him today.

    "I''m notбн" Her chest moved in and out heavily, holding his gaze fearlessly. "бн not Aries. You''re crazy, Joaquin."

    "Your Royal Highness!"

    Suddenly, a voice rang from the entrance, followed by the sound of a sword being unsheathed. Her eyes shook and when she blinked, she saw a de pressing against the side of Joaquin''s neck. Her gaze moved up to the sword''s handle and to the person wielding it.

    Climaco.

    "Let her go!" Climaco''s eyes burned with rage, pressing his sword against Joaquin''s neck fearlessly. The crown prince quirked a brow, casting the knight an indifferent look.

    "And who are you?" Joaquin asked out of in curiosity, studying the knight''s suit that was wearing the empire''s pride.

    "I am the captain of the second squadron, Your Royal Highness. And the man who pledged to protect my master against anyone who attempts to harm her." Climaco''s heart thudded, but he maintained hisposure at this unknown courage swelling in his chest. "Let her you, Your Royal Highness."

    "The captain of the second squadronбн right? You''re the one who reced the previous captain under the orders of the crown princess." Joaquin smirked, unfazed by the sword on his neck. "Were you asking me, the crown prince, to let my wife go?"

    "Climaco," Aries called, but Climaco stood proudly before Joaquin.

    "Yes, I am demanding you let her go." Climaco swallowed down the frustrating fear in his throat, fighting the tremor in his hand. "Or I will not hesitate to thrust my sword into your neck."

    "You have some balls." Joaquinughed. "Amusing."

    As soon as thest sybles escaped the crown prince''s lips, knights from outside rushed inside and surrounded the table where Aries was pinned down, Joaquin holding her, and Climaco holding his sword at the crown prince. The knights instantly drew their swords.

    And yet, Climaco was unfazed as he kept his eyes on Joaquin. Aries was his master, and for once, he wouldn''t close his eyes and look away from this insolence. This was to honor his vow as a knight to protect his master, even if it meant death.

    ''Damn it!'' Aries cursed internally, twisting her ankle since she had no choice but to get herself and her knight out of it. There was no point in keeping this act. But just before she could make a move, another familiar voice came into the scene.

    "What the hell is going on in here?" Ismael gasped, looking around the dining hall surrounded by knights. When his eyes fell on the table, his pupils dted seeing a knight threatening the crown prince''s life, and then Joaquin pinning down Aries.

    That second, Ismael''s heart thudded and then caught Aries''s gaze.

    "Oy, oyбн what the hell are you doing?"

 Chapter 395 Taking Full Control

    "Oy, Joaquinбн what the hell are you doing?"

    p Ismael''s voice shook just the way his heart pounded against his ribcage at the sight of blood on the table. This was what he dreaded toe into, the reason he rushed into this ce without a second hesitation when Morro told him, ''disaster hade.''</anda>

    This was definitely a disaster.

    "Oh, brother. What a great coincidence for you to appear here at this time." Joaquin hailed in mockery, arching a brow at the fear dominating the third prince''s face. "I wonder what is the purpose of your visit?"

    "Let her go!" Climaco thrust his sword forward, making the knights around them be on guard. "Your Royal Highness, I''m asking you to let Her Royal Highness go."

    "Oyбн!" Ismael took a step forward, only to pause when Climaco pressed his de against Joaquin''s neck until blood dripped down to the crown prince''s cor.

    "Climaco!" Aries called through her gritted teeth. "Drop your sword."

    "Your Royal Highness, I will only drop my sword if he lets you go."

    "Hahбн" Joaquinughed in amusement, studying how Climaco''s eyes burned with fury. "Look at youбн ring at me like a dog while trying to protect your master."

    Climaco swallowed a mouthful of saliva and drew a breath. "I don''t mind being her dog. I''d bite anyone who will try to hurt my master even if that person is you, Your Royal Highness."

    "Oy, oyбн" Ismael looked around the knights as they advanced a careful step. This was getting out of hand.

    ''That fool!'' the third prince ground his teeth and balled his hand into a fist. ''I need to do somethingбн Morro said that the emperor in Haimirich was pissed.''

    As mentioned, the reason Ismael rushed to the inner pce in the middle of gathering his forces was that Morro told him Abel was pissed. When Ismael inquired, "why?" Morro answered a disaster had befallen Aries. Ismael didn''t ask further questions and rushed to this ce.

    Now he understood the reason.

    Just the thought of Abel was enough to make the hair across Ismael''s body to raise. Not to mention, those who tagged along with Aries: Dexter, Conan, the Duke бк Conan would always nder, and then Morro. The only reason the Maganti Empire was still in one piece was because of Aries, but if Joaquin hurt her more than he already didбн

    ''Forget about the warбн we will all die.'' Ismael''s eyes burned and stomped his feet forward. ''I can''t let that happen. We''ve reached this farбн we''re only a step бк"

    "Your Royal Highness!" Ismael froze before he could walk past a knight when a familiar voice rang behind him. "We are here to invite you for questioning regarding the illegal casinos and illegal trades in the ck market tying the crown prince!"

    The third prince looked back, only to see a new batch of knights entering the dining hall and forming another circle around the knights, who were already present prior to their presence. The knights under the crown prince''s order turned on their heels, making a stance with their swords.

    When Ismael gazed at the door, his eyes met a middle-aged man who was tall, dark, and, despite his age, handsome, in his fighting suit. Modesto nced at the third prince for a moment, before shifting his eyes towards the table. His jaw tightened the second he caught Aries pinned down.<sub> </sub>

    "Your Royal Highness." Modesto narrowed his eyes and stood proudly in his uniform with which he had always questioned its purpose. "Please cooperate with us and let go of Her Royal Highness."

    Joaquin looked around andughed. For someone who was cornered, Joaquin didn''t show a shred of fear. If anything, he looked rather amused by this. He hanged his head low, shaking it mildly whilst suppressing hisughter.

    Seeing his demeanor, Modesto frowned. Climaco slightly retrieved his sword, furrowing his brows. Most of them wondered if the crown prince had lost his mind, but the dread crawling under their skin refrained them from lowering their guards.

    The knight temrs working for the church looked at the royal knights. Holding their weapons, observing each other''s movements, preparing themselves to paint the floor red and fill the air with the piercing sound of metal shing.

    As the tension progressively built up, Joaquin didn''t move an inch from his spot. The only person who could see how wicked he appeared was Aries. Her eyes shook, barely blinking, heart thudding. She never feared Joaquin until now.

    This was the face of a real demon. Not that person who had a pair of wings and fangs. This was.

    "Climaco, withdraw your sword right now," she ordered with a solid huff, holding Joaquin''s wicked gaze.

    "Your Royal Highness бк"

    "I said now!" Aries yelled, making Climaco lower his head.

    With great reluctance, Climaco red at Joaquin''s side profile before he ground his teeth and retrieved his sword. Climaco took three steps back, holding the sword tightly until it trembled. Although he listened to Aries to respect her orders, he wouldn''t hesitate to stain his sword and y a royalty if Joaquin do something to her.

    Climaco had been itching to y this crown prince, after all. Not just for Aries, but for his colleagues who died unjustly in those filthy hands.

    "Withdrawing his sword won''t save him, my love," Joaquin whispered and shook his head mildly.

    "I''m not saving him, I''m saving you." She retorted fiercely, ignoring the striking pain digging in her back as she nced to her right. "That knight will not hesitate to kill you, Joaquin. I don''t think your men''s swords are faster than his."

    "Thank you very much, my love. But s, I don''t need such help." Joaquin smiled confidently, and once again, loud footsteps resonated in the air.

    "How dare you, members of the church, barge in the sacred ce of His Majesty!?" a voice from outside the dining hall erupted, making Modesto and Ismael look back. Their eyes dted, seeing that royal knights were blocking the door, and they didn''t need to check outside to know they had blocked all exits.

    They were surrounded, and Joaquin had deployed his men to take full control of the imperial pce.

    "Youбн!" Modesto''s voice rang as he seethed, eyes ring in Joaquin''s direction. But the crown prince ignored him, as he smirked at Aries.

    "Give me that knight''s head," Joaquin ordered in an incredibly quiet voice, but everyone somehow heard him loud and clear. "Now."

 Chapter 396 Erectile Dysfunction

    "Give me that knight''s headбн NOW!"

    Joaquin observed how Aries''s pupils red at his order. But just as the royal knights moved, Modesto''s voice thundered.

    "Touch him and blood will spill!" the knight temrs also took their fighting stance, unfazed by the numbers of royal knights surrounding them. "Your Royal Highness, let us not shed blood for the sake of the Maganti Empire."

    "Did you hear him?" Joaquin giggled at Aries. "Isn''t he cute, my love? He used to bark for me, but now... he had grown some courage."

    "Joaquin Imperial..." Ismael''s voice shook in anger, balling his hand into a tight fist. "... have you gone mad?"

    "Him, too." Upon hearing Ismael''s furious voice, a sly smirk dominated the crown prince''s face, but he kept his eyes on Aries underneath him. "Aren''t they cute? They were already aware of the situation and yet, they struggle. Amusing, isn''t it? Just like you, my love. You already escaped, but... here you are. Back in my arms."

    "If this isn''t love, I don''t know what is," he added, watching her lips slowly stretch.

    Her lips reached her ears until her teeth appeared, revealing the fresh blood smeared on them. That second, his smile lines faded as his eyes darkened.

    "Touch my people, and I''ll keep chewing my tongue." Aries raised her chin and licked the blood on her side tooth, only to show her bleeding tongue. "If that didn''t kill me, then there were more ways to take my own life, my husband."

    "Hah..." heughed shortly. "Take your own life, you say?"

    "Do you think I won''t do that, Joaquin?" she taunted, lifting her head to see him up close. "No, you know I would."

    She snorted before rxing her body underneath him, ignoring the shards piercing her back. "But you can''t allow that to happen, can you?" Aries shed him a frown, fluttering her eyshes coquettishly.

    "You love me so much бк you''d rather have me crippled just to keep me. You can''t live without me, Joaquin. Just the thought of it kills you... oh, love! What an astonishingly pathetic thing!" sheughed like a madwoman, making even Ismael and Climaco, who was on her side, wonder if she had snapped as well.

    "Go!" Aries hollered with augh. "Kill each other like how animals will do and paint the castle red! What are you all waiting for? Use your swords andpose the best melody in the world!"

    Her eyes popped open and stared at Joaquin. "Hmm? Why are you looking at me like that, Joaquin? Quite rmed?"

    "No." His lips curled up. "Quite amused."

    His eyes fastened with amusement. "I expect no less from my queen."

    Unlike everyone else in the room who was forced to listen to Aries''s taunting, Joaquin was the only person who enjoyed the sensation she sent under their skin. Back to Ismael''s question: if Joaquin had gone mad? Well, Joaquin had always been. But what could suit a mad person like him? Someone who was just as crazy as him.

    And that was Aries.

    "An eternity... will never be boring with you around, my love," he expressed, bending over to her ear and biting her earlobe. "We will have a fun time together... my favorite."

    "Disgusting." Her eyes were icy with his breaths on her skin. "Your touches never fail to turn my stomach."<sub> </sub>

    "Then prepare yourself to get indigestion, my love." He grinned against her ear, moving down to inhale the scent of her neck. "I wonder if chaos will ensue if I defile here where everyone can see?"

    "Joaquin...!" Ismael took a step and withdrew his sword. However, he stopped after walking past a knight temr and met face to face with the knights on the first among the three circles in the dining hall.

    "The nerve to raise your sword at me..." his voice shook just like his sword within his grip. "Just what is the purpose of those uniforms, hah?!"

    "You..." Climaco also tried to suppress his fury in his chest but fought to stab Joaquin''s nape, afraid he would hurt Aries if he wasn''t careful.

    "Your Royal Highness, the crown prince!" This time, Modesto''s voice echoed like thunder at the indecency they were already used to.

    This was the crown prince. The man who portrayed himself as a holy man but hid the demon within him. But now, the crown prince wasn''t even trying to conceal his true colors anymore whilst oozing with confidence. Modesto was aware Joaquin had already given up the reputation he built for years.

    Where did this confidencee from? No one knew exactly.

    But what everyone was certain of was that this was Joaquin''s way of putting everyone under his control. And that meant the ruin of the church and thew to monopolize the power. To put it simply, the power wouldn''t be split between the monarch and the church.

    "Go ahead." Ignoring the noises, Aries arched a brow and smirked. "Go ahead, Joaquin. Let''s give them a good performance."

    Aries ran the tip of her shoes up to his leg and moaned to spite him. "Come, Joaquin. Let''s do it."

    "Your Highness..." Climaco''s pupils went huge at Aries''s taunting moans, but she ignored himpletely.

    "Unzip now, Joaquin. Let''s do it..." her lips slowly curled up as her eyelids drooped. "... you just have to make it stand up."

    Joaquin smirked, perfectly aroused by her moans. If that was what she wanted to do, then he would happily fuck her for everyone to see. However, the moment herst remarks caressed his ears, his smirk faded as realization dawned on him.

    He... couldn''t feel his bulge, trying to break free from his trousers.

    "Hmm?" her brows rose and blinked innocently. "What is it, Joaquin? I''m ready. Don''t tell me you''re shy and afraid they would criticize your performance."

    Aries let out a deep sigh and nodded encouragingly. "Don''t be, my husband. Treat this as our first night together and a marital duty we must fulfill. We already had witnesses, so it''s the perfect time to seal this marriage."

    "Youбн!" Joaquin roared after several seconds, pinning her hands over her head, even more, making Climaco raise his sword, which caused all knights to raise theirs. s, Joaquin and Aries ignored all these movements around them as they kept eye contact.

    "What did you do?" he seethed, eyes burning at her.

    "Nothing." She shrugged and then smiled. Aries lifted her head and licked his cheek, leaving blood on it.

    "But I can help youбн bring it back to life." She smirked, moving her eyes at him. "How does that sound, hmm?"

 Chapter 397 This Was War

    "How does that sound, hmm?"

    "Amusing how you always find ways to make me reconsider." Joaquin chuckled in ridicule, while Aries shrugged indifferently. "Why are you so confident, Aries? Was it because Haimirich is on your back?"

    "Think whatever helps you sleep at night," Aries smirked. "But what I can tell you is you kill my people, and I will not hesitate to cut myself. Once my brother finds out about my death... he''ll melt your throne with you in it."

    Joaquin snorted at her im, but his smirk didn''t reach his eyes. "You''re one lucky woman, Aries."

    "I won''t deny that."

    "Hah..." he let out a dryugh, observing her pair of taunting eyes. Joaquin wouldn''t have to reconsider his problem down there. It would heal on his own once morphed; Aries was aware of that as well.

    The only reason he reconsidered was the fact Aries had damaged him without him noticing. She hade prepared, and that also meant Haimirich truly had a hidden agenda for sending her back. Joaquin wouldn''t want a war with another empire бк not right now.

    Joaquin still needed to put everyone and everything under his control and settle the Maganti Empire. Once that happened, then he wouldn''t mind plundering the Haimirich Empire.

    "Seize those who opposed the birth of the new dynasty," he ordered, keeping his eyes on her. "They would be executed publicly to set an example for those who are nning resistance."

    Aries secretly sigh in relief, but her stony countenance remained. Meanwhile, Ismael looked from his left to right when the royal knights outside barged inside to arrest them. Modesto, on the other hand, took a deep breath and held his sword.

    "If they fight back, kill them." Joaquin nced in the door''s direction as soon as he caught Modesto drawing his sword. Thetter looked back at him, anger filling his eyes.

    "Hey! What the бк! Who do you think you''re trying to put your filthy hands on?" Ismael hollered as knights approached. However, before he could fight back, he froze when Aries spoke.

    "Don''t fight!" Aries yelled, making Ismael, Climaco, and Modesto look in her direction. Joaquin was already pushing himself away from her, casually offering her a hand as if they were on the same side, to begin with. She scoffed and pped his hand away, propping her elbow to sit up.

    The second Aries sat, she winced at the inbound breeze that ran up her wounded back. Ismael and Climaco, who were in the angle where they could see her ripped bodice and bleeding back, held their breath as their anger peaked. And yet, they gritted their teeth and held it in.

    Aries gazed at them with sharp eyes. "There''s no point in fighting and losing your lives. This is not the end." Her eyes traveled across the knight temrs and then at Climaco. Thetter''s lips quivered, chest out while fighting himself to contain his anger.

    "This is definitely not the end." She nodded once before shifting her attention to Ismael and Modesto. "Live for as long as you can, because there''s no honor in death."

    Ismael and Climaco swallowed the frustrating tension in their throat. It was ironic how a woman would give them courage in this situation. In this empire where men ruled and women''s opinions never mattered, these two men respected her. Thus, they backed down as they dropped their swords and raised their hands in surrender.

    Their swords nged multiple times against the floor, followed by more weaponsnding on the floor as the knight temrs dropped their swords. With Ismael and Modesto''s surrender, they also raised their hands and allowed the royal knights to seize them without fighting back.<sub> </sub>

    "Climaco," Aries called, as Climaco was thest person who held onto his sword. Tears shone in his eyes while holding her gaze.

    Aries shook her head. "Listen to me."

    "Your Royal Highnessбн." Climaco''s voice shook, feeling like a failure. He had always been blinded with fear, left mute to survive, and acted deaf. But now that he was prepared to be a proper knight to the only master he wanted to serve with all his life, she was telling him to drop his sword.

    Ariesбн kept her word like a fierce military man would.

    She was not the type to ask her people to shield her, but she was someone who would use her body to shield her people. But that was not what he wished. Still, Climaco couldn''t disregard her orders becauseбн Aries was his master and her words were absolute. He respected her orders more than his own will, regardless of how painful and cruel they were.

    Climaco hung his head low and his sword hitting the floor echoed like a gong drumming right in front of his ears. The moment he dropped his sword, royal knights pinned him on the floor to restrain him.

    Their grunts resonated in the dining hall as they pinned everyone down. Seeing this, Aries bit her inner lip but kept a strong countenance. Despite the situation, the knight temrs, Ismael, Modesto, and Climaco, kept their eyes on her.

    They were looking, and she couldn''t show the slightest sign of helplessness. Instead, her eyes red, returning the fire zing in theirs while they grind their teeth.

    "Come here." Joaquin outstretched his hand and grabbed her hair. Aries grabbed his wrist on instinct, ring daggers at him, but he simply returned it with a smug smirk.

    "The next time you see them, their heads will roll and their blood will paint the gallows." As soon as those left his lips, Joaquin dragged Aries by the hair without a care for her bleeding back.

    "Hey! Fucking бк!" Ismael nearly bit his tongue when a knight pressed his knee on his back whilst holding his hands still. He red back, grinding his teeth at the knight pinning him down.

    "I will remember your fucking face!" he spat out, only to receive an annoying smirk back.

    "Your Royal Highness!" Climaco also yelled heart sinking, watching the crown prince drag her by the hair. When his eyes fell on her back for the first time, his brain went nk.

    Meanwhile, Modesto''s eyes simply darkened while watching Joaquin drag her out. Unlike in the past, Modesto and everyone else didn''t look the other way or close their eyes. Not this time. No matter how heartbreaking to see Aries being dragged by the hair while blood trailed behind her, they watched it with gritted teeth.

    No one even dared to blink, afraid if they did, they would end up turning a blind eye to this again. Never again. They wouldn''t go back to those haunting days.

    Deep in these men''s hearts, they made a vow right at this moment. They would end Joaquin''s madness one way or another. No one would fall victim to Joaquin once again.

    This was war.

 Chapter 398 Not A Sound, Darling. Not A Breath.

    "Ah!" Aries squealed when Joaquin tossed her inside one of the sitting rooms near the dining hall in the inner pce. She raised her arm, which hit the coffee table, to protect her head from hitting it.

    "Hahбн" Joaquin ran his fingers through his hair, looking down at her. He sneered when she red back at him. "Aren''t you amazing, my love? Those menбн really admired you."

    Heughed in ridicule, recalling hisst memory in the dining hall. When he nced at the dining hall for thest time, all he saw was not helplessness. What he saw were people with burning eyes, looking back at him with murderous intent.

    In other words, he didn''t kill their spirit. But instead, their morale only peaked in such a cornered situation and that was all because of her.

    "Everyone is just in stupid." He chuckled, shaking his head mildly. He marched towards Aries, squatting down in front of her. His arms rested on his bent knees, eyes glinting at her.

    "How annoying," he continued in a quiet voice. "Everyone is just so annoying."

    She sneered, but only answered him by spitting on his face. Joaquin closed one of his eyes, wiping the red sticky liquid on his cheek with the back of his fist calmly.

    "You''re always amazing, isn''t it, Aries?" he uttered, ignoring her repulsive action just now. "You always have a way with people, which is quite amazing. I give that credit to you."

    "Do you want to find out my secret, Joaquin? Why did those people get angry in my stead, and how they were willing to fight for me at the cost of their lives? I can open a seminar for you since that never happened on your watch," she mocked with a grin. "Your menбн are only there for you because they were scared of you. They were not loyal to you, but they were loyal to the fear that was grabbing them by the neck. So, when an opportunity open up and they can take off their cors, they would flee without looking back."

    Aries''s eyelids drooped. "Pity."

    "I don''t need their loyalty, my love." He smirked back. "If fear is what keeps them on my side, then they would live in horror and carry that fear to their graves."

    He raised his hand, only to stop when she turned her head to avoid his touch. He scoffed and ignored her until the back of his fingers was caressing her cheek.

    "Thing isбн this was what drove your people in Rikhill to their graves," he remarked under his breath. "The resemnce of the situation is uncanny, don''t you think, my love? Despite the threat of my troops marching to your small, insignificant kingdom, your people didn''t back down. Instead, you waited for us on that ridge with your metals on, singing your battle cry."

    His lips stretched as he recalled the amazing spirit of the warrior of Rikhill, which reminded him of the tension in the dining hall. Just like the soldiers in Rikhill, the face of a formidable foe didn''t faze them. Instead, they kept their chin up and shouted proudly.

    Even to theirst breath, they didn''t submit to the g of the Maganti Empire, nor did they bow in Joaquin''s presence. They were the type of soldiers Joaquin would want on his side, but s, she was correct. His people weren''t loyal to him, but they were loyal to their fear of the crown prince.

    He didn''t mind, though. However, it was still annoying. Looking at Aries, Joaquin couldn''t understand just what charm did this woman had that he didn''t have? Was it the pair of breasts? Her genitalia? Her irresistible body? Or that beautiful face of hers? But then again, Manuel, the deceased crown prince, had the same way with people.<sub> </sub>

    "You did a good job capturing my heart, Circe," he purred, raising his eyes to meet her cid ones. "I love you so much I would keep you. Even if you spit on my face and curse the life out of me, I''ll still ept you. That''s love."

    "That''s sickness," she corrected, but he simply shrug.

    "I really want to have a child with you, though. Just the thought of starting a family with the woman I love, yearned, and ache for gives me thisбн inexplicable peace." He smiled, cupping her cheek with gentle hands. "You don''t have to love me back, my love. It''s alright. I had longed to ept anything from you; love, hate, disgust, or whatever. Anything, my love. I will ept anything you give me."

    Ariesughed tonelessly. "You are mad."

    "I never said I wasn''t." His brows rose briefly. "But at the end of the day, I will still get what I want while you have no choice but to choose from those limited options."

    Joaquin let out a quiet sigh, casually brushing her cheek with his thumb. "I won''t make you happy. I will make you the most miserable woman, Aries. And that is a promise." His eyshes fluttered ever so tenderly, observing the undying mes in her eyes.

    Hatred and disgust condensed in her eyes, but she never showed the slightest fear of him. Maybe that was the reason he was so obsessed with her. Because Ariesбн was the only woman who never feared him from the very start.

    She hated him; he disgusts her. But she doesn''t fear him. And he was fine with that.

    Joaquin cupped her face with both his hands and looked at her face up close. "Just like how I ughtered your family and people, those people will share the same fate, my love," he remarked before releasing her carefully. He held his knees and pushed himself up. He looked down at her silently before turning on his heel and walking away.

    "Summon the royal physician to treat her back and raise the security in this room," he ordered as soon as the door opened from the outside. "Block the windows as well and keep all sharp objects."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Joaquin looked back into the room, and his gaze instantly locked with hers. The side of his lips curled up before he marched away.

    Aries kept her eyes on the door, watching it shut closed. Her cold countenance remained, seeing shadows underneath the door. Minutes had gone by when the side of her lips curled up triumphantly. But it was short-lived when Abel''s voice echoed in her head.

    "Not a sound, darling. Not a breath."

 Chapter 399 1,343

    "Not a sound, darling. Not a breath."

    Aries closed her eyes and exhaled deeply. She lowered her head until her forehead was resting on her sweating arm propped on the coffee table.

    "Damn it..." she whispered, refraining from speaking in her head. Abel was listening; he was in her head. He had always been there like a creep who wanted to know everything бк even though he had always known everything.

    ''I''m fine,'' she told him in her head. ''Don''t worry.''

    ''I didn''t say I was worried.'' His voice was cold and in, low and dangerously maic. ''Angry... that is the term.''

    ''Don''t kill Sir Conan.''

    ''Pray to God, darling, he might listen and stop me.''

    ''Kill Sir Isaiah, instead.'' Aries ground her teeth, apologizing to Isaiah in her heart.

    ''He just died... oh, he''s back on his feet.''

    Her face contorted, imagining what was now happening on his side. She knew Abel woulde the moment she bled, but Conan and Isaiah did a great job restraining him. Abel would definitely ruin everything just because his mood was ruined.

    ''Aries.'' Her back stiffened, feeling a chill down her spine with his voice in her head. He truly sounded angry. Although his tone was in and rmingly calm, it still sounded ten times more haunting. It was enough to make one stay up all night.

    ''Ipromised and allowed a scratch. One scratch.''

    She gulped. ''Sorry...''

    ''That''s a million strike now.'' Aries sighed quietly at the exaggerated calctions he kept in his tabs. ''A million, Aries.''

    ''Abel, darling, my moon and stars, my sun who brightens up day бк''

    ''Ten million.''

    Aries winced as blood spurted on her back because of the pressure Abel was pressing on her. ''I love youбн?''

    ''бн''

    ''My fiance.'' She nced at the door, seeing movements underneath the shut doors. ''We already talked about this, right? I know it pissed you off, but bear with me. Just this once. I''ll get treated and stay here for a while. Keep talking to me so I don''t get bored.''

    ''Later.''

    ''Abelбн'' Aries closed her eyes momentarily, reopening them when she heard the door rattling. Silence returned in her head as if he had just disappeared, but she knew he was still there. She promised Abel to stay connected to him since he was crazy enough to listen to her all day long. So, she knew he was just keeping quiet, but he was still listening.

    ''I don''t regret this, my Abel.'' She kept her eyes on the door and watched it open. ''I''ll see you at the altar.''

    Her expression changed to utter coldness as soon as she caught the physician entering the room to treat her.

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>CLANG! </strong>

    Conan kept flinching every single time he would hear a te shatter. He had been listening to this crisp sound resonating in the kitchen for almost an hour now. But he hadn''t gotten used to it and would jolt every single time.

    Who wouldn''t? He was scared that at this rate, all the tes in the imperial pce would be gone!

    If Abel''s anger wasn''t quenched after he broke every te, ss, and everything. What would he do? Conan could only think of the worst.<sub> </sub>

    Conan nced to his left and caught Isaiah holding on to a table, standing up weakly. He clicked his tongue and shook his head mildly. But Conan kept his disappointment at Isaiah to himself and then set his eyes on Abel''s figure.

    Abel consistently broke the stacked tes one by one, dropping them inside a long crate. Conan cleared his throat and drew a deep breath.

    "Your Ma бк" Conan bit his tongue when Abel froze like a mannequin.

    Keeping his stance like that бк holding a te with only his thumb and index бк Abel only moved his eyes to Conan. He didn''t even speak or move his head to face Conan, just his eyes, sending this immense horror to his dear vassal.

    Conanughed awkwardly and moved his hands. "Please continue. I ordered more tes to bring here from the other pce. You''ll have an unlimited supply to break."

    <strong>CLANG!</strong>

    Conan flinched once again when Abel dropped the te to join the shattered ones inside the crate. His lips pressed into a thin, tight sh as Abel kept breaking tes while keeping his eyes glued on Conan.

    "I''m sorry, Your Majesty!!" he wept desperately, almost in tears, having Abel''s attention on him. "I am simply fulfilling your bride''s wishes before her wedding! This is the dowry she wanted! Stop looking at me, please!"

    Conan had already known this would happen when Aries uttered the first in her list of wedding wishes. But s, that was the bride''s wish! And thus, he had to fulfill it as the wedding coordinator and organizer. This weddingбн was the hardest task Conan had to work on throughout his time as Abel''s legal adviser.

    The groom was making impossible requests such as inviting angels as choir and something as an on-site statue that would be made throughout the ceremony! Meanwhile, the bride''s wishes weren''t as impossible as Abel''s, but they were not any less extreme!

    <strong>CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!</strong>

    As the sound of breaking porcin continued, Conan heaved a sigh of relief when Abel peeled his eyes away from him after the longest minutes of Conan''s life. Conan''s eyes fell on the crate and sighed once more.

    ''At least, he''s not making a mess.'' He nodded mentally, wanting to focus on the positive things. ''Things will run in motion if he doesn''t ruin it.''

    His eyes observed Abel while thetter continued to drop fragile items in the crate. It also appeared Abel didn''t n to ruin it. Or rather, Abel was controlling his anger quite perfectly. If he didn''t want to honor Aries''s wishes, Abel would have been dining with Joaquin with Aries on hisp and not in here breaking everything he could.

    "Your Grace, Lady Aries will appreciate your sacrifice," Conan expressed in Aries''s stead, only for his face to contort as Abelzily rebutted.

    "She asked me to kill Isaiah instead of Conan." Abel dropped another te and raised his eyes at Isaiah, who was leaning against the table to rest. "Isaiah, Conan is brainwashing her."

    Isaiah blinked twice and nced at Conan. Thetter scrunched his nose up, waving and shaking his head frantically.

    "Not true!" Conan eximed in defense, denying it despite knowing this was his condition to Aries to save his life.

    Isaiah simply let out a quiet sigh, ignoring Conan. He didn''t even show the slightest sign of surprise; it wasn''t worth his time and energy.

    "One thousand three hundred forty-three," said Isaiah in his usual dull tone. "That is the urate count the crown prince touched Lady Aries." бк not ten million.

    "What?" Conan''s nose crinkled. "You''re counting?"

    "I''m keeping track," Abel replied, followed by another piercing sound of shattering ss. "How many pieces of ss dug into her skin?"

    Isaiah went silent to ponder for a second. "Morro said around twenty бк the smallest pieces included."

    "Multiple it to a thousand." Abel picked up the te on top of the stacked tes. "Conan, I need neen thousand seven hundred more tes to break and a bigger crate."

    Conan''s Adam''s apple bobbed upon hearing the order. "Yes, Your Majesty." Nevertheless, he abided, knowing it was pointless to oppose it. That many tes would keep Abel at bay for the time being.

    But then again, Conan frowned. Where the hell would he get that much te!?

 Chapter 400 Three Men In A Cell

    "Easy! Damn it!"

    p Ismael looked back at the knight, who shoved him inside the cell. He clicked his tongue in irritation, brushing his shoulder while the knight closed the cell and locked it.</anda>

    "Fuckingбн" he grunted, raising his chin to taunt the knight when he looked up at him in the eye. "What?"

    The knight remained silent as he walked back, turning on his heel right after, and then walked away.

    "I would''ve mangled his face if he spoke a word." Ismael spat to the side and rolled his eyes.

    "I need to get out of here."

    The third prince arched a brow when he heard Climaco''s shaking voice. He turned on his heel and his eyes instantly fell on Aries''s knight. Climaco was sitting on the narrow bench with his arms on his legs. His expression was solemn.

    Climaco held his trembling hands together to calm himself down from the dread filling his heart. "I need to get out."

    Ismael let out a quiet exhale and then shifted his attention to Modesto. The Minister of Justice was sitting on the opposite bench, posing just like Climaco. He looked back at the third prince for a second, before moving his eyes to Climaco.

    "Calm down, Knight," he mumbled in an attempt to calm the knight, but the effect was proved to be ineffective.

    "How can I?!" Climaco roared, hearing his voice echo in the dungeon they were held in. The light from the torch outside their cell danced on the side of his face, granting Modesto to see the mes in his eyes. "Her Royal Highness is the only person worthy to serve in this ce, but instead of protecting her, she protected us бк you, me, and you too!"

    Climaco shot Ismael a defiant look,pletely indifferent to the difference in their status. He used to bow his head to these people, but now, he didn''t hesitate to look them in the eye. Hell. He would y them at Aries''s behest, but there was no point in wasting energy on them.

    "I don''t know why you two can be this calm when the woman who saved your lives is out there бк suffering in his hands as we speak," he continued aggressively. "But don''t expect me to calm down or shut my mouth."

    Climaco ground his teeth while keeping his eyes in contact with Ismael and then held Modesto''s gaze. The more he observed the two, the angrier he got. The fury that continuously piled in his chest drove him to stand up, punching the concrete wall, shouting a few clumsily chosen curses.

    "Damn it!" his fist settled on the wall, unfazed by the blood covering the grazes on his knuckles. "I should''ve killed him when I had a chance and fled with her."

    "Don''t make it sound like you are her lover." Climaco looked over his shoulder, catching Ismael already leaning against the metal bars with his arms folded under his chest. "You''d be in deep trouble if someone gets jealous."<sub> </sub>

    Ismael calmly narrowed his eyes, trying to see further into the darkness past the third cell where his eyes could reach. There were still royal knights locking up the knight temrs in each of their cells. Surely, this dungeon would soon amodate more ''guests'' since Joaquin would imprison anyone who would oppose him.

    There were a few names that came to Ismael''s head that would surely join them soon. After all, there were clear oppositions in the royal court бк the neutral ones were still uncertain since they could submit to the crown prince to save themselves.

    Their arrest was just the beginning.

    If what Ismael guess was correct, Joaquin had the imperial pce surrounded by his people. One thing would surely lead to another, and before they all knew it, Joaquin would im the throne.

    Ismael and Modesto, and every nobleman who wouldn''t acknowledge him as the emperor, would inevitably stand on the gallows.

    "We could''ve prevented this from happening if you told me about itst night." Modesto broke his silence with a quiet voice.

    "We had a mimunication. My bad." Ismael shrugged, watching the knights outside. The torches helped him to see what was going on. He waited until they shoved a knight temr inside a cell several cells from them and closed it with a bang. When the knights marched away, he continued.

    "It''s my fault for taking my eyes off of her, so I wasn''t updated until Roman''s arrest. I can use this time ming myself for letting things escte to this point, but I''d rather use my energy forter."

    "That''s right. There''s no point in pointing fingers now," Modesto replied with a long-suffering sigh. "Either way, he will im the throne just as expected and you''ll still end up inside here бк just you alone, though. But this is better, I guess. We had uncovered his crime and more and more people wille forth until everyonees to know what sort of monster the crown prince was."

    Modesto nced at Ismael''s figure and sighed quietly. Thetter didn''t budge, keeping his eyes outside to make sure no one was listening to their conversation. Ismael had grown mature. He might act like he hadn''t, but ever since he emerged from that incident that killed Carlos, the third prince had been more meticulous in his orders. But what was even more amusing was that Ismael kept his values and, thus, he was now locked in this dungeon with them.

    "Youбн" Modesto''s brows rose and twisted his neck in Climaco''s direction. "бн what are you two bbing right now?"

    Ismael quirked a brow and carefully peeled his eyes away from the outside to Climaco. Thetter darted his eyes between them, confusion obvious in his eyes.

    "Why are you talking as if you had predicted this from happening?" he asked under his breath.

    Ismael and Modesto looked at each other in silence before setting their attention back to Climaco. The third prince cocked his head to the side, batting his eyes ever so slowly, smiling subtly.

    "We didn''t," he answered. "The crown princess did."

 Chapter 401 Maganti Expects A Tyrant

    <strong>Hours before the arrestбн</strong>

    "Isn''t that the reason we''re here? To n my wedding? Abel already told Sir Conan what he likes to have at our wedding. It''s my time to add my wishes, don''t you think?"

    Everyone shot Aries a rtively disapproving look at her remarks. She couldn''t be serious, right? Dexter and Conan aside, who were in this burnt and pretty much ruined castle before her, Ismael and Curtis came in here after receiving a word from the Sapphire Pce бк from the crown princess to meet her in this ce secretly.

    "Tell us if that is meant as a joke so I canugh." Ismael''s eyes searched forck of seriousness in Aries, only to get disappointed at noticing the opposite. She was dead serious. Hell. No.

    "I had enough of these wedding preparations," Conan mumbled with a long-suffering sigh. "Lady Aries, I know weddings are important. But isn''t this a little out of track of what you''re supposed to do?"

    Aries shot those two who voiced out their dismay a cursory look and then veered her gaze to Curtis and Dexter. Unlike Ismael and Conan, Curtis and Dexter remained silent, waiting for any rification for her reason. Her lips curled up subtly, side-eying Roman, who was lying motionless on the bed.

    "First on my listбн make sure Abel won''t do anything reckless," said Aries, along with a shallow huff, not beating around the bush. "Sir Conan, I would like you to keep him at bay. The audience should only watch бк he canin in dismay or apud, and the only time he cane up to the stage is to take his marriage vow."

    Their brows knit together as silence descended, forcing them to listen to her every word.

    "As you all know, I had met the emperor and discovered his pitiful situation. The sole reason I had to sell Roman out." Her eyesnded on Roman, nodding slightly as if that was enough gesture of apology. "Joaquin is a cunning and wise man. He doesn''t put his apples in one basket. What I mean by this is splitting his trust with his henchmen: Roman held the dirty works, Hernan for his shady business, and Javierбн for his bigger goal."

    "Joaquin''s greatest asset is he is aware of his disposition. There will be a time when he would be too old to breathe, much less protect himself. And he wouldn''t allow that disgraceful demise. It just so happened Javier was a smart person who chose to stay in the background, unnoticed. I am not sure why Javier supports Joaquin, but what I am certain of is Joaquin trusts Javier." Aries gazed at Ismael, assuming the third prince already knew the unbreakable yetplicated bond between the crown prince and the fifth prince.

    "Javier had always idolized Joaquin," exined Ismael, keeping it short and simple.

    "The point here is, Joaquin is smart, and having to consider Javier, who sessfully stayed out of everyone''s radar until now, is the sole reason Roman was in this state." Aries let out a short sigh, eyes back to Roman. "I need to pull you out of his side, Rome, whilst gaining his trust."

    "You don''t have to apologize." Roman''s voice was rasped, raising his brows as his movements were limited in his state. "How I ended up in this state isn''t anyone''s fault, but mine. I could''ve gotten out of that ce safely, but I idled."<sub> </sub>

    "You saved your people," Dexter chimed in.

    "They still died," the seventh prince argued, and no one rebutted because that was the truth. Roman tried to save his people but to no avail. Roman was captured and those soldiers he saved were left burning alive under the order of the crown prince. It was pure evil.

    "So, what is the point there?" asked Conan after an entire minute of nothing but silence.

    "The point isбн someone needs to stop Abel because Joaquin would soon find out about me." Aries glossed her eyes over their rattled faces, but her expression remained unstirred. "Even if he doesn''t find out himself, I would make him realize it."

    "Aime, are you out of your mind?" this time, Curtis''s voice erupted in the air. "Why would you do that? Do you have any idea what that man would do if he figured out you''ve been ying with his head?"

    "I know!" she raised her voice and her eyes glistened with determination. "I know, Curtis. I know. Two yearsбн he tortured me without a moment to breathe, Curtis. So, I know what he would do if he ever finds out I''ve been deceiving him."

    "Then why?" Curtis balled his hand into a fist, feeling his eyes heated in rage. If she didn''t forget what she went through and survived, why would she purposely put herself in such danger? Even though Abel and his entourage walked among them, Aries would be hurt one way or another бк it may not be physical, but mentally and emotionally.

    "Joaquinбн will not kill me," said Aries in an incredibly quiet voice. "Right now, Modesto is creating a ruckus, smearing the crown prince''s reputation. Once the victims starting forward to get the justice they deserved, more and more people, who were repressed by fear, will find courage."

    "Our initial n is to strike his reputation and get him under control by the power of the church, backed by the third prince''s influence. However, I realized Joaquin''s weakness wasn''t his reputation," she continued, pausing to let them absorb her words. "Joaquin simply built that public image to hinder any disruption for his bigger ns and now, that n ising бк no, Abel said it''s already done."

    It was pure silence for the next minute, making Ismael''s hands tremble. But unlike usual, he kept his thoughts together. It was hard for the third prince not to act rattled because it was his nature, but that had been one of the things that nearly led him to multiple deaths. Hence, he remained silent and pondered about it thoroughly.

    "In other words, even if the entire empire condemned himбн" Roman breathed out and closed his eyes for a moment. "бн it doesn''t matter anymore?"

    "Exactly." Aries nodded once. "Maganti is expecting the rise of a tyrant."

 Chapter 402 A Good Story

    "Maganti is expecting the rise of a tyrant."

    The room weed another wave of silence, but this time, much thicker than the melting white frost nketing the empire. They felt бк Ismael, especially бк was back to scratch just when he thought sess and justice were within his reach. It had always been like this for the third prince. Whenever he thought he would get the proper justice, the tides would turn and he would end up like a joke.

    Why would evil always prevail? This question had always crossed Ismael''s head ever since Joaquin was crowned as the crown prince after Manuel''s death. The third prince was fighting for the people of the Maganti Empire, and his intentions had always been good. He would never even have the thought of wanting the throne if Joaquin was the slightest humane.

    But Joaquin was anything but humane. The crown prince was clever and capable, but evil. With capital letters E. V. I. L.

    "Right now, the crown prince hadn''t made a move, but he had definitely heard about Modesto''s brazen defiance." Aries broke the silence with a soft voice, but it still sounded piercing in Ismael''s ears. "Some knights were still looking for the seventh prince. I heard they had blocked all possible exits and raised security around the imperial pce."

    She scanned their faces once more and added. "Don''t that rm you?"

    "He had an excuse to surround the imperial pce and put it under his controlбн" Ismael breathed out as realization struck him like thunder.

    "That''s right," she nodded.

    "If you know this would happen, then why, Aime?" asked Curtis with genuine wonder in his voice. "By helping the seventh prince escape, that means giving Joaquin enough reason toбк"

    Curtis trailed off as an idea crossed his head, making him look at her in awe. His pupils went huge when the side of her lips curled up.

    "A good story always has a viin." Dexter rocked his head in approval, faster to read along the lines and where this was going.

    "Exactly." Aries fluttered her eyshes every so tenderly, sharpness clouding her facial features. "We just have to make sure that viin is not my groom."

    Conan let out a long-suffering sigh, understanding what she meant now, although a secondte than Dexter. "This is easier said than doneбн His Majesty will kill me without even giving me a fighting chance."

    "You can do it, Sir Conan. You survived until now, so you''ll be fine." Conan scrunched his nose up at her flimsy attempt to encourage him. "I''ll help you find a good woman once this is over."

    "Really?" his eyes lit up, only for others to ignore him.

    <o>,m "So the n is to keep His Majesty at bay while you dance with the fire?" Ismael inquired, sticking to the main subject, as this was more important than Conan''s search for a proper wife. "That''s it?"</o>

    "No." Aries shook her head. "Once he finally figured out about me, I think we already know what will happen. He might lock me somewhere."

    "I''ll get you out," Dexter was calm, but his tone oozed with confidence.<sub> </sub>

    "I know you will, but that isn''t my concern because that means everyone who opposed him..." Her eyes fell on Ismael. "The third prince, Modesto, and everyone who isn''t on his side will be executed. I don''t think I need to exin this, since we were all aware of how a new dynasty secures their position."

    Silence once again fell on them as soon as thest syble slipped past her lips. That was right. She didn''t have to detail what would Joaquin''s next move would be since it was already expected.

    For the new emperor to rise in power, his people needed to acknowledge him, and those subjects included the ones in the royal court.

    However, even if they acknowledge him for survival, the new emperor would always feel threatened if he left those who had the right to the throne live. Therefore, to avoid an uprising and power strife, Joaquin would inevitably ughter his brothers and their children, who could be brainwashed by the elders and instill ambition for the throne.

    A new dynasty had always been a bloody time for any kingdom. And the Maganti Empire was about to enter one of the bloodiest and darkest times of the empire after decades of pseudo-peace.

    "There''s only one time we can all strike." Aries pushed herself from the armrest she was sitting on, standing in her stature with her chin up.

    "Executionбн" whispered Ismael, sharpening his eyes after sessfully calming himself down.

    "He will set you all as an example for those who tried to oppose him," Aries uttered what they had already known would happen, and then gazed at the bed where Roman rest. "That is why you need to recover, Your Highness."

    "A good story always had a viin people would like to die a miserable death," she continued solemnly. "And at the same time, had someone to root to seed. Bringing downfall to Joaquin''s madness by ruining his reputation and pinning the problem of the world is not enough."

    "Problems will still arise even when his reputation takes a hit. In any case, there would be certain individuals who were simply lurking in the corner, waiting for their chance to strike," Aries added solemnly, scanning them with equal attention. "But if a hero emerged and save everyone at the risk of his own lifeбн even the most ambitious nobleman wouldn''t have the courage to press on."

    "The victor always writes historyбн whoever the victor was бк you or Joaquin бк can distort facts. The future generation would have no idea whether or not this is real since they weren''t there to witness it." Aries breathe out calmly, rxing her stiffed shoulders. "бн or there would be no history at all because if you, Ismael, failed, we won''t have any choice but let my man run amok. In any case, the Maganti will be handed down to anyone who wants to im it."

    Ismael swallowed down a mouthful of saliva, unable to look away from those pair of cid green eyes.

    "Maganti is my soil, and despite the turmoil within, my only intention is for it to be peaceful. I don''t want the throne so long as a good and wise man rules it," he remarked, loosening his fist. "I don''t think I have the qualification to rule, butбн I will not allow Joaquin to sit on that damn fucking throne."

    Aries observed Ismael, and her lips curled up subtly. ''What you saidбн just gave you enough quality to lead.'' But she didn''t voice it out, and simply nced at everyone''s faces.

    "The n isбн let him have a taste of sess," she remarked with a clear voice. "And then take it away just when sess is within his reach... that''s my groom''s suggestion. Any objections?"

    Aries ran her gaze across the room, nodding encouragingly at them and they nodded back.

    "None."

 Chapter 403 [Bonus Chapter]A Good Man

    "And then take it away just when sess is within his reach."

    Ismael closed his eyes as he drew a deep breath, recalling their meeting just this morning. He didn''t know Aries would actually reveal her identity this soon. Or if his guess was correct, Joaquin found it out even before she could reveal it to him.

    But it wasn''t like they didn''t expect it. If anything, the schedule was only moved up from their initial prediction of being captured tomorrow at thetest.

    "Iбн didn''t know that." Climaco wobbled back to the narrow bench weakly until his armsnded on his legs.

    "Because you weren''t there," Ismael replied, reopening his eyes slowly. "Why are you even in the inner pce?"

    "I received a word to report to Her Royal Highness бк" Climaco halted as realization suddenly struck him. The third prince rocked his head, grasping the same realization that dawned on the knight just after hearing his iplete sentence.

    "That meansбн she ns for you to be inside this cell." Ismael cast Modesto a cursory look. "To be executed with us."

    A shortugh escaped the third prince''s lips, checking the outside of the cell. "Funny, isn''t it? The cast is slowly being filled, but they were already selected even before the screening. What an honor for the knight to be executed alongside a royalty and the highest minister."

    "So, we''ll only stay here?" Climaco inquired, ignoring the third prince''s humorous remarks.

    "Obviously," Ismael croonedzily, eyes still outside the barely lit hallway. "Focus on reserving your energy. This is just the beginning. For now, grit your teeth. Her Royal Highness will be fine. If anything, we should worry about ourselves because if something happened to her, we''ll all follow her to hell."

    Climaco remained muted, joining Modesto''s blissful silence. He nced up, seeing Modesto sitting across from him on the opposite bench. He was leaning against the concrete and icy wall leisurely, his arms folded in front of him, eyes shut closed.

    Climaco didn''t dwell on Ismael''sst remarks and took it as it was. Not knowing Ismael was pertaining to an entirely different opponent that would deliver them all to hell if she was harmed.

    ''I hope Sir Conan can stop him,'' Ismael prayed in his head, narrowing his eyes when he saw a knight marching through the dark hallway. He arched a brow, watching ite close while the sound of his metals grazes each other. The knight stopped in front of them, letting Ismael study the armor he was wearing that was the same as the crown prince''s knight brigade.

    Modesto had opened his eyes upon sensing another person''s presence, turning his head to the person standing beyond the metal bars. Climaco was also staring at the knight in silence, with his arms still over his legs.

    The knight, wearing full body armor, raised his visor. He then ced his fist across his chest and bowed at Ismael. His gesture didn''t shock Ismael but surprised the other two.

    "His Highness, the fourth prince, had left the imperial pce safely, Your Highness," reported the knight in a quiet voice. "The imperial pce is still under siege, and no one can leave or enter anymore. The ministers were all trapped in the royal court бк some of them had spilled blood under the orders of Lord Hernan."

    Ismael rocked his head, listening to the knight''s report regarding the situation outside this dungeon. He nced at the knight, having this slight satisfaction because his efforts before things went south were slowly showing the result.

    Take this knight for an instance, who was mortified upon witnessing the crown princess and prince''s argument, nearly dying in the hands of Aries or Joaquin, was now on Ismael''s side.<sub> </sub>

    He was now working as Ismael''s spy, even before his fear towards the crown prince could manifest in him, just like what happened to the other knights who were following Joaquin''s orders.

    "And the crown princess?" Ismael asked calmly, right after the knight ended his report. "Is she alright?"

    "The knights guarding the crown princess''s chambers were only the ones that the crown prince trusted. But I saw a group of physicians rushing to her room, perhaps, to treat her wounds."

    "I seeбн is that all?"

    "Yes, for now. I will keep monitoring and report to you."

    Ismael shook his head. "Joaquin is wise. If he noticed you go in and out in this ce more than a knight should, he''ll kill you without questions asked."

    The knight lowered his head silently, clenching his fist. Ismael let out a shallow breath, studying the knight''s demeanor.

    "Joaquin wouldn''t kill us on a whim, since he needs to benefit from my death one way or another." Ismael unfolded his arms and slipped a hand through the metal bars. His arm was stopped as it couldn''t fit through the gaps, but it was enough for him to reach for the knight and hold his shoulder.

    "Be brave. We''re fighting with a good intention," he insisted, squeezing the knight''s shoulder, even though Ismael himself was questioning this im. "I''ll meet you on the battlefield."

    The knight looked Ismael in the eye before beckoning a neck bow, his fist across his chest. "I''ll keep my eyes and ears open."

    Ismael patted his shoulder lightly before retrieving his hand. The knight didn''t idle and pulled down his visor, knocking on the metal bars of each cell with his gauntlet, making this piercing sound in the air.

    "Stop idling and reflect on your crimes!" the same knight hollered, receiving annoyed grunts from the knight temrs locked in each cell.

    Meanwhile, Ismael chuckled weakly while watching the knight stir up the emotions of the other captives. Little did he know, Climaco and Modesto had been watching him silently and his interaction with the knight.

    Climaco could only count the times he encountered Ismael, and his opinion about the third prince was he was an arrogant prince who was a little more bearable than the crown prince. Even so, Climaco never thought of switching sides in the past because Ismael was obviously weaker than Joaquin.

    Modesto, on the other hand, had known Ismael. However, he couldn''t help but be in awe of the third prince''s sincerity towards his people. He had always known the third prince was a frustrated viin with a soft heart, but it was reassuring to see him grow and embrace the goodness of his nature.

    Both Climaco and Modesto didn''t voice their thoughts aloud, but Ismael gained these men''s respect and his methods to survive until now.

 Chapter 404 [Bonus Chapter]Arent As Fragile As Humans

    The silent sound of liquid dripping echoed inside the burnt castle where Dexter and Roman had stayed. The frequent chatteringing from the outside, along with the sound of metals grazing each armor, couldn''t evenpare to the deafening silence with the sound of each drop of liquid.

    Roman''s eyes flickered underneath his eyelids before they cracked open. The line between his brows deepened, licking his lips at the water damping it. Only to quickly realized it wasn''t water when the tang of bitter iron like blood invaded his cavity.

    "I had no choice. The n moved up." Dexter''s calm voice pierced the air, holding a tiny jar with red liquid in it, which he was slowly pouring into Roman''s lips. "Don''t worry. His blood has healing qualities, and having a bit of it won''t change you."

    "Wait бк" Roman coughed at the sudden dryness of his throat. His faint coughs grew louder and dry, propping his elbows with grew difficulty as he rolled to his side. Slowly, he gasped for air at the tightness of his throat as if someone was strangling him and a weight on his chest as if they set a gigantic rock on top of him.

    Roman reached his hand out, grabbing anything he could clutch. It hurts. It felt like he was burning from the inside. A pain he never felt before.

    "Ughбн ahhh!!" he screamed when he couldn''t take the pain biting every fiber of his body.

    Thisбн was torture.

    Pure torture.

    The hell went through the other night in Joaquin''s hands was nothingpared to this pain.

    The pain the seventh prince was going through right now was the literal hell. It was like knocking on the fiery gates despite knowing it was piping hot, stepping inside the fire, and getting devoured by it. His scream sounded distant in his ear and his head felt like it would explode anytime soon. Veins on his temple protruded angrily, hisplexion red, and blood once again squirt from the fresh wounds across his body.

    While Roman writhed in pain, Dexter stood motionless beside the bed. His eyes were fixed on the seventh prince, showing no sign of pity despite the blood painting the white sheet red.

    "You''re lucky," he whispered, ironic to say when Roman was ying tug of war with life and death. "Because we never knew mercy until she came."

    Dexter slowly turned on his heel, eyes glinting with murderous intent. His every step away from the burnt room faded into Roman''s screams and cries.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    <strong>[ INNER PALACE KITCHEN ]</strong>

    "Neen thousand nine hundred ny-nine."

    <strong>CLANK!</strong>

    "Twentyбн" Abel dropped thest te into the huge crate filled with broken cutleries. He didn''t move from his spot since morning, and nor did he stop shattering every fragile item within his reach. His eyes were fixed on the shards inside the crate, tilting his head to the side, genuine wonder in his eyes.

    "I''m so tiredбн" Conan murmured, slumped on the corner of the kitchen floor, and then said louder, "Your Majesty, please tell me you''re not as pissed as this morning after breaking twenty thousand fragile objects without taking breaks!"<sub> </sub>

    Conan waited for any confirmation from Abel, but thetter kept his attention on the crate resting near his foot. A long-suffering sigh slipped past Conan''s lips, closing his eyes momentarily to rest them.

    "Goodnessбн" mumbled Conan. "That crown price is really something, isn''t he?"

    He gazed at Abel and shook his head. Surely, Joaquin was amazing in his own right. Why? Because he managed to piss Abel. It had been a very long time since Abel was truly pissed about something. Conan had been with Abel''s side for the longest time and he could tell breaking twenty thousand porcin wasn''t enough to quench his anger. It only kept Abel busy for the day.

    "These tesбн" Conan swallowed a mouthful of air when Abel''s dangerously deep voice pierced the stifling air. "бн aren''t as fragile as humans."

    Conan scrunched his nose up in dismay. "Pleaseбн for Lady Aries''s sake. Kill His Grace!"

    Isaiah, who was standing by the window, didn''t show the slightest sign of reaction to Conan''s suggestion. He shunned it automatically, listening to the voices ringing across the imperial pce on top of the cries beyond the pce''s premises.

    ''Witches hate this sort of madnessбн'' he thought, blinking every so tenderly. Without looking away from the darkness nketing the world that even the torches couldn''t fight, Isaiah spoke.

    "The witchesбн request to settle in Haimirich and follow their queen." Isaiah slowly peeled his eyes away from the window to Abel. "They saidбн they won''t allow vampires to exploit the power of Maleficent."

    "Damn witchesбн" Conan spat out in dismay. "This is why I hate them!"

    "Whatever makes them happyбн" Abel waved, picking up a shard and breaking it with only his thumb and index. "It is better to have her own people in there sinceбн I smell choctes."

    Conan and Isaiah furrowed their brows, a little confused at Abel''s remarks. Choctes?

    Abel raised his nonchnt eyes and his slight smirk looked even more sinister. "Forget about the statue, dearest Conan. Bring this crate to my wedding."

    "Hell yesбн" Conan heaved a sigh of relief as if one giant burden was lifted off of his shoulders.

    Abel slowly pushed himself up and stretched his neck from one side to the other leisurely. Dark shrouds emanated from his back, but he was much calmer now. Although calmness was the least they wanted from him because when Abel was overly calmбн that meant hell was about to rise up to the surface of the world.

    "Prepare my attire, Conan." He pivoted on his heel and sauntered off silently. "The groom will need some beauty restбн as per my bride''s request."

    "Alrightбн" Conanzily dragged himself up from the corner, feeling his muscle tremble from all that manual work of bringing porcins just for a certain emperor to break. When Conan tried to lift the crate, his frown deepened. It was heavy.

    "I can''t carry that." Isaiah shrugged the second Conan shot him a look, hands up and then sauntered off to the opposite direction where Abel left.

    "Ughбн" Conan grunted in irritation and then yelled to get help from someone who would help him hopefully. "Morro! Come and carry this one!"

 Chapter 405 Your Feelings Dont Have A Say

    <strong>[ SAPPHIRE PALACE ]</strong>

    Aries was lying on her tummy, using her arms as a head cushion. She opened her eyes ever so slowly. As soon as she did, a pair of silver eyes met hers. She blinked multiple times until Joaquin''s face grew clearer.

    Joaquin was squatting beside the bed, his chin on the edge of the mattress, eyes on her face. He didn''t break the silence even when he locked eyes with her, but instead kept staring at her.

    "What are you doing?" she asked, her voice rasped and soft.

    "Looking." His tone was low and calm, raising his chin, only to rest them over his arm. "Wondering."

    "About?" she inquired in the same weak tone.

    "You."

    "What about me?"

    This time, Joaquin didn''t answer. What about her? He also wondered what was there in her that he so wanted.

    "Do you love me?" another calm query slipped past her chapped lips, eyes holding his.

    "Mhm. Of course." He returned without a shred of hesitation. "Very much."

    "Why?"

    "I wonder tooбн" he whispered, fluttering his eyshes ever so tenderly.

    "Do you feel bad for the ones on my back?"

    He went silent for a moment. "No. You deserved it."

    "You don''t love me."

    "Because I hurt you?"

    "No," Aries observed his charming face. Right this second, Joaquin was strangely calm, and he lookedбн harmless. Perhaps it was because he was winning, and hence, he was calmer than he was supposed to be. Orбн it could be one of those days where he would feel lost and confused at his own existence.

    "Tell me, my love," Joaquin breathed out, stretching his arm to caress her cheek with his fingertips. "Why are you certain I don''t love you, just as I imed? If the reason is not that I am hurting you, then what?"

    "Becauseбн you don''t get hurt while hurting me." Her voice came at a level above a whisper, but it was firm. "If what''s happening to me doesn''t give you the slightest angst, then how can you im you love me?"

    Silence fell in the chambers after thest sybles of her sentence slipped past her lips. They only stared at each other, but unlike the anger and ridicule they bore prior to this encounter, mixed emotions filled their soft eyes.

    "Don''t look at me like that," he whispered after a moment of silence, touching the corner of her eyes gently. "I don''t need such pity from you. The throneбн the empire is about to kneel before me. And you still belong to me. There''s nothing to pity about me, my love."<sub> </sub>

    The side of his lips curled up weakly, theplete opposite of what he would usually show. "This is the game I was born to y, my Aries. And I''ve won."

    "I belong to no one." Aries pressed her lips, betrayed by her own eyes, as a tear rolled across the bridge of her nose. "And it is not winning when you sacrificed more than you gained. The innocent lives you had sacrificed and disregarded and the recognition you gained after a mass ughterбн is not a game you should win."

    "You had all the qualities to rule properly, but you chose the other path. You''ve won nothing," she added, admitting that Joaquin was smart and capable enough to have the title of the crown prince. Not that she was saying this path he chose was wrong or bad бк all paths were bloody. But this path was definitely tragic.

    "But I was born yearste," he answered bitterly, letting his point across with that simple, vague sentence. If he was born years early бк before Manuel бк Joaquin wouldn''t have to fight for his father''s attention and people''s recognition. They would give that to him even if he wouldn''t ask for it, and perhaps, the empire, the emperor, and everyone wouldn''t have to live in fear.

    "You should understand me, Aries. You were born a woman, but you are more capable than your brother," he continued, tucking her hair behind her ear. "Yet, they had announced him the crown prince because of his birthright. You challenged him and seeded in snatching the title. We''re the same."

    "We''re not."

    "We are," he stressed airily. "I killed Manuel to get where I am today, while youбн killed your people and your family by letting them fight for you. Blood spilled and lives were taken, and for as long as you live, you will have to keep the title of the crown princess of the kingdom of Rikhill. I don''t see any difference in our situation."

    "We carry thousands of lives we took, and we both shamelessly breathe and desperately struggle to survive," Joaquin added. "So tell me, what makes you different from me?"

    Aries swallowed, hearing her own gulp in her ears. "Did youбн attack Rikhill just to make us the same?" Her heart sank when he remained silent.

    <strong>How pathetic. </strong>

    To do a mass ughter just because he wanted someone to understand him, and be just like him, one way or another. There was no greater insult to know such a pathetic truth from his madness. If Joaquin said it was because thend of Rikhill was riched with natural resources, she would probably understand.

    But to ruin a peacefulnd just because he was desperate for someone to feel how to be in his shoes? Or just to prove he was right? What an insult.

    "Don''t cry." His lips curled up subtly, brushing her cheek with his thumb. "You''ll forget about them soon. All you need to do is love me with all your heart, and I will give you everything in this world. I''ll be kind."

    "Bring them all back to life and I will love you with all my heart." His finger halted at her request, watching more tears roll across her nose. "Otherwise, you can take everything from me and force anything into me. But your loveбн will never get in my way of wanting you to rot, and your feelings can''t have a say."

    Joaquin remained silent for a moment, already used to her calm and hysterical defiance. "Very well, my love. Rest well for tonight. Their execution is in two days, and I had prepared a spot where you can watch. You can bid them proper farewell this time. It''ll be different this time. I promise, my love."

    He moved up, nting a kiss on her temple. His lips curled up against her and deepened his kiss to make her feel his sincerity. He ruffled her head gently as if he was simply putting a child to sleep. She didn''t retaliate, watching him draw his head back with a smile.

    "Good night." He pinched her cheek mildly and idled for a moment before leaving the room.

    Aries kept her eyes open, hearing the faint sound of chains right after he shut the door closed. Another tear rolled across her nose before she buried her face in her arms. They weren''t the tears of anger, but sadness. Not for Joaquin, nor for herself, but for the sadness she felt from this obsession he believed as love.

    Perhapsбн she was wrong from the beginning and Joaquin was right.

    This was probably love because only love could hurt like this. His love was painful and tragic, and she wished she had never gotten it.

 Chapter 406 Ghost Joke

    The night before the scheduled execution of some royalties and noblemen who opposed this forced new dynasty. The shouts and yells in the capital had grown fiercer, condemning the crown prince for the ridiculous news of his session. Some were still weeping for the ''death'' of the emperor.

    p The citizen of the Maganti Empire wouldn''t question the crown prince''s session if it happened days before. However, with more and more victimsing forward, who survived the atrocities done to them with the help of the Valiente Group, the opinions about the crown prince continuously went downhill.</anda>

    Now, from a divided opinion: one was simply asking for the crown prince''s exnation and the other asking him to step down, now cursing him as a rebel and a traitor of the empire. To control the angry masses protesting outside the imperial pce, the royal knights had no other choice but to exercise violence.

    This had been the situation of the empire, with bodies continuously piling up to get buried in thick snow. It only took two nights to suppress the unarmed people and instill fear they had never imagined would reign in this great empire.

    The situation inside the imperial pce grounds was no different. Noblemen involved in royal courts were stuck inside the inner pce. Some were quick to kneel before the new emperor, while others stubbornly voiced their opposition. Which warranted them a spot in a dark prison to await their scheduled execution, which would be held tomorrow morning.

    "Fuckбн I''d freeze to death before my head rolls over tomorrow," Ismael grunted, rubbing his body and squeezing himself into the corner of the cell they held him in. His brows rose when a capended over his head, pulling it down, only to see Modesto shaking his head.

    "Thanks," the third prince wrapped the cape around him and tried to keep the little warmth he could to survive the night.

    Ever since they were imprisoned, they only served them one meal a day, and it was barely called a meal. The food they served them was already rotting. They were prisoners on death row, so they couldn''t reallyin.

    Fortunately, some of Ismael''s knights would slip bread for everyone, which they would split into equal pieces. Therefore, no one had died yet. Although they would all die eventually if this cold season extended more.

    "There was a time I was patrolling the eight east district years back." Climaco''s low voice pierced the thick silence, sitting on the narrow bench with his arm over his legs and hands linked together.

    Ismael and Modesto set their eyes on his dull and disheveled figure after being locked in this ce for days now. Since they had to keep themselves sane for as long as they could, the two listened to what this person had to share. Not just them, but everyone locked in the other cells was listening. It was pin-drop silent that they could even hear a person''s breath from the other cell. So Climaco''s voice sounded louder than it normally should.

    "While we were walking around the town, I saw this young girl walking in the middle of the night," Climaco continued. "I approached her and offered help since I thought she was lost. It was quite heartwarming and at the same time, I felt the pang of guilt for someone like her to rely on a knight such as myself, who didn''t even know the purpose of the uniform he was wearing."

    "As I walked her home, I noticed she didn''t seem afraid of the dark street. So I asked out of in curiosity if she was afraid of the night," he added in the same dull tone. "She said, ''I wasбн when I was alive.''"

    "Damnбн" Ismael shivered at the sudden horror that crawled under his skin. "Did you snap now? I thought you were serious!"

    Modesto shook his head in disbelief. He knew they needed to stay sane, but Climaco''s mental health seemed to decline faster than everyone. He then heard faint snickers from the other cells where the knight temrs and the noblemen who joined them a bitter were locked in.

    "Now that I think about it, my son back home once asked me if ghosts are real." Suddenly, a man''s voice from the other cell erupted. "I asked him why he was suddenly curious about such a thing, and he said his nanny told him they were real."<sub> </sub>

    There was a momentary silence as they automatically listened. Even Ismael, Climaco, and Modesto were listening to this knight temr''s story, guessing it was just as nonsense as Climaco''s story. And they were correct.

    "The problem is, we''re poor as fuck, and we don''t have a single servant." Low chuckles followed the knight''s story, slowly shifting the grim mood in the dungeon a little lighter to bear.

    "What do you call when two ghosts fight each other?" another one chimed in, waiting for a few seconds before breaking the stupid joke. "It''s called fighting spirit."

    Ismael kept his poker face for as long as he could, but every ghost joke that any of them knew and threw broke his defenses until he also joined the fun.

    "Hey, Minister." He clicked his tongue to get Modesto''s attention, waiting for thetter to return his gaze before speaking. "Do you know what a ghost professor says to his ss?"

    He grinned, pausing to keep the suspense. "He said, ''Keep your eyes on the board while I go through it again.''"

    Modesto kept his poker face, but musing about the unfunny joke executed poorly broke his straight face. The joke wasn''t funny, but it was so unfunny it was funny.

    For men who were about to stand on the gallows in the morning, the dungeon that was initially dark and silent was slowly filled with men''s voices and their ridiculous jokes. One might think they had lost their minds, but the lively atmosphere that was supposed to be reigned by dread did not please Hernan, who came to check the situation.

    *****

    Joaquin stood in the open hallway connecting two buildings with his hands on his back. His eyes were fixated on the burnt castle not far away. The air surrounding him was sentimental.

    ''No matter how many times you try to erase our child''s traces... it''ll all be futile,'' he thought after staring at that burnt castle for minutes just like how he would stare at it habitually without no one knowing.

    Suddenly, a knight came forward to his side. With his fist across his chest, the knight stated his reason for approaching.

    Joaquinughed at the report he received just now. "Let them allugh." His lips curled up into a smirk and his eyelids drooped until they were partially closed.

    "They won''t be able tough tomorrow, anyway."

 Chapter 407 Wedding Preparation

    Aries was already awake before dawn, sitting on the settee as servants walked in and out of the chamber silently. They were decorating the room, changing the flowers in the vases, and removing the scented candles to a different type that still had the same scent ofvender. Some were pushing three mannequins disying three different bridal pieces for her wedding today. Another three mannequins arrived right after, but they were for her wedding night, such as a silk robe and some pieces she didn''t care what for.

    Despite the grandeur and luxury in front of her, her expression didn''t budge. She kept quiet, allowing all of them to decide what they would do in this chamber which would serve as the matrimonial room after her wedding no one was excited about, and coronation as the empress, the mother of the nation.

    "Tear that one apart." The second her lips parted and her quiet voice pierced the silent air, the servants inside halted. They looked in her direction on instinct, confusion apparent in their eyes.

    Aries pointed at the first mannequin donning a beautiful whitece bridal dress. "It''s an eyesore. Burn it." Her brow arched, seeing that no one moved after several seconds.

    "Forget it. Burn all three of them." She changed her mind, raising her chin. Her eyes didn''t show the slightest vestige of rue at the orders.

    "But Your Royal бк Your Majesty, His Majesty said you need to choose one out of the three bridal pieces for your wedding," exined the servant that was adjusting the mannequins along with the seamstress, who were forced to do the final touches once the crown princess wears them.

    "What did you just address me?" Aries returned, ignoring the servant''s exnation.

    The servant lowered her head as her throat bobbed nervously. "Your бк Your Majesty."

    "So you know my position." Aries snorted and her eyes never left the servant''s figure. "As Her Majesty, the mother of the nation, the Empress of this Empire, how dare you a lowly servant to argue with me?"

    The atmosphere in the chambers quickly rose, despite Aries''s calm and clear tone. The air in the chambers with her silence was already too suffocating to bear, but having her speak wasn''t any better.

    Aries scanned the room carefully, noticing the servants lowering their heads and shivering under her gaze. Her lips stretched into a smirk, ridicule obvious in her eyes.

    "Do you think just because Joaquin is treating me as a captive, my title is an empty title?" she chuckled in mockery, propping her elbow against the armrest and resting her leg over the other. "One sweet whisper in my husband''s ear and a memorable night of passion, and he wouldn''t hesitate to execute and rece you all at my behest."

    The servants shuddered at the wave of chill that ran up their spine. They couldn''t even raise their head and look into her eyes, afraid if they did, Aries would vent her frustration from her husband to them. Aries had been in this empire for more than half a year, and the servants who worked in the Sapphire Pce knew how temperamental she could be.<sub> </sub>

    Right now, the crown princess''s rtionship with the crown prince was unstable. However, if Aries obeyed Joaquin to survive, which everyone already expected she would do, she would have equal authority as the rising emperor. Even if the servant''s dilemma was understandable, the royalties weren''t patient, nor they were considerate enough to listen.

    If they listened to the crown princess and ruin the bridal pieces to sabotage her own wedding, then the crown prince would naturally punish them all. But if they didn''t listen to Aries, the crown princess, the consequences would be the same. Hence, the dilemma.

    "Burn all of them," Aries repeated, this time with a much firmer tone. "Don''t make me repeat myself thrice."

    For an entire minute, no one still moved. But when her lips parted once more, a courageous servant straightened her back and approached a mannequin. Without a word, the servant carefully took off the bridal piece from the mannequin and draped the heavy dress over her arms.

    Aries nodded in satisfaction when the servant tossed the dress inside the firece, almost extinguishing the fire, only for the me to ze minutester. The servant faced Aries and bowed before walking to the second mannequin, and went through the same process of tossing it to the furnace once the first dress was burning.

    "Your Majestyбн" one servant called nervously, watching how her colleague was burning the bridal pieces one by one without ever speaking a word. Even with theck of exnation from the servant, everyone was aware the maid servant who just threw the second dress in the hearth was buying them some time before Joaquin hear a word about this.

    But Aries didn''t budge and let them all whimper internally, watching the servant until all the dresses were now burning along with the woods. Only the crackle of woods and the drip of melting dresses caressed their ears for long minutes, all eyes on the wildfire in the furnace. At one point, the fire got so wild the servants thought it would crawl out of the hearth to the room, but fortunately, it didn''t. Although the temperature in the room significantly increased, ironically, they broke out in cold sweats.

    Watching the remaining parts of the third piece burn, their heart sank. It was over. The wedding would either be postponed and they would all die or it would continue, but they would still die at the crown prince''s behest.

    Aries chuckled, seeing the helplessness reigning in their eyes. "Don''t cry," she crooned, enjoying the sight of their watery eyes to her heart''s content.

    "I simply don''t like those pieces because they were not elegant enough to par my beauty," she humored, but she was the only one who appreciated it and had a goodugh. When she recovered, Aries''s mood was already great, grinning from ear to ear.

    "Bring my wedding dress," she ordered, causing confusion to them so she added clearly; "the one I wore at my first wedding."

 Chapter 408 Wedding

    Bells tolled and flowers fluttered as two figures stood by the door of the throne hall. The woman donning a beautiful white long dress barely moved from her spot. Holding a gand decorated with a variety of beautiful fresh flowers, they didn''t feel just as beautiful as they appeared. For Aries, the bride, this gand was nothing but a rope that would tie her with the murderer of her family under the eyes of thew and God.

    And yet, her countenance behind her veil didn''t show disgust, hatred, or even the slightest defiance. She was calm and unmoved. The grandeur right before her with important noblemen making a beeline for either side as their guests didn''t faze her. Even those two golden thrones adorned with real jewelries waiting to be sat on didn''t elicit excitement or any emotion from her.

    In her eyes, those chairs were nothing but stools, and these people were men who were here with invisible daggers on their throats. The fear, exhaustion, and distress in their eyes were enough for her to pity them in witnessing this wedding and coronation.

    The only person who seemed neutral about this was Javier, the fifth prince, standing near thest step to the throne. He didn''t have the same air as everyone else, smiling proudly at his brother бк Joaquin, the groom бк while nodding encouragingly.

    "Don''t you like it?" Aries arched a brow when her groom leaned to her side and whispered in her ears. They walked at a slow and steady pace, heading to the throne. She didn''t answer him, knowing he already knew her answer: she couldn''t care less.

    Aries and Joaquin stopped in front of the first step of the step-ups before the throne. In front of them was a Reverend from the church, standing nervously. His book shook as he held it open, darting his eyes between the groom and bride. Beside him were other ministers in their uniform, standing motionless and expressionless.

    On such an auspicious asion as this, being able to witness the union of the new monarchs and watching them get crowned was the greatest honor. But s, neither the Reverend nor the guest felt honored. What they were witnessing wasn''t an auspicious asion, but how their empire would fall to the hands of a tyrant.

    Both the bride and the groom faced each other as the ceremony started. Unlike their first wedding, their second wedding was shortened since they would have to receive their crowns afterward, and their royal mantles.

    "I do," Joaquin answered after a ceremonious sermon of their union, eyes on his bride. Although she was wearing a white veil, he managed to hold her piercing gaze and smirked.

    "In this union of Her Royal Highness, Danie Circe Vandran and His Highness Joaquin Imperialбн"

    Aries arched a brow and nced at the Reverend, stopping him before pronouncing them husband and wife.

    "Won''t you ask for my opinion?" she asked in ridicule, making the Reverend gulp nervously.

    "You don''t have a say in it," Joaquin answered for the Reverend since it was his request to hasten the wedding ceremony. Asking her and waiting for her ''I do'' would take forever. They didn''t have time to waste.

    "I don''t," Aries said louder, smirking back. But her refusal to take her marriage vow simply drifted into nothing, since no one cared about it. Even if they do and wanted to honor her refusal, how could they? They were all hostages here, just like her.

    "Continue." Joaquin cast the Reverend a sidelong nce and smirk. "She''s simply not in the mood since the wedding dresses I gave her weren''t par for her taste."

    Aries snickered as the priest cleared his throat. "It''s not that they''re not par for my taste. I justбн don''t like you."<sub> </sub>

    Cold sweats broke out on everyone''s back and forehead upon hearing her reply. Even though they weren''t the one talking, listening to her rebuts were enough to make one bite their fingers.

    Does the crown princess have a death wish? Did she think she had many lives to spare?! What would she gain by pressing Joaquin''s nerves? She would get them all killed if she continue this!

    Their distinguished guest, and even the ones facilitating the wedding, looked at Joaquin cautiously, bidding their farewells to their loved ones outside the imperial pce. Much to their relief, Joaquin kept a smile as his attention was solely on her.

    "How sweet." Joaquin chuckled, side-eyeing the Reverend to continue.

    Thetter instantly cleared his throat and proceeded to bless this union. He felt like his tongue was getting burned upon mentioning the god they believed in, and blessing this ''consensual'' marriage with nothing but poisonous lies, knowing that wasn''t the case. But everyone just wanted to survive and so, despite the fear and guilt of lying, the Reverend continued.

    "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride."

    Joaquin extended his arms and carefully lifted her veil. As soon as he did, he was weed with a poker face, as if she was forced into this бк which was the case. But he ignored it, pinching her chin gently to face him. He tilted his head and bent over, stopping when she looked the other way.

    "I don''t want to," she expressed, almost in a whisper. "It''s too early to get married, so I''m still not in the mood."

    He naturally ignored her remarks, treating them as some sort of annoying humor. Using a bit of force, he guided her chin to force her to look back at him.

    "I told you, my love." He shed her a smirk, leaning closer ever so slowly. "You don''t have a say in it."

    His silver eyes glinted dangerously as he imed her lips, biting them hard until they bled as her punishment. Her eyes lowered, keeping her lips into a straight line, watching him draw his head back coldly.

    "Disgusting," came out a whisper, licking the blood on her lips and spitting it out to the side, all the while holding his gaze. Meanwhile, he simply smirked and wiped the blood on his lips with his thumb. His gaze lingered on the side of her bottom lip where he bit and was now bleeding.

    "There''s always something so arousing in you whenever you look at me fiercely, despite the bleeding."

    Aries snorted but didn''t say further. With that being said, they turned and faced the people standing and on the step up. But the Reverend who blessed their marriage was reced by three ministers. This time, not to bless their union, but to proceed to the session of the throne and proim them the new monarchs of the Great Empire.

 Chapter 409 [Bonus Chapter]Long Live The King

    Unlike the wedding ceremony, the event right after took more time than Aries expected. The three ministers who used to hold a great power went through the effort of making it a proper passing of the crown. Joaquin was amazing, especially when some of these noblemen were known to stay in the middle and weighed the problems fairly.

    But now, here they were, giving their blessing and swearing their loyalties to the new emperor and empress. While doing so, they wrapped the two new rulers of thend with a royal mantle, tying it in the front delicately. Afterward, they passed them golden batons after chanting what they were for and the weight of holding such power. Many more minutester, Joaquin lowered his head instead of bending his knees to humble himself in the presence of the crown.

    However, Joaquin and Aries had already skipped a lot of steps in their wedding, and this act of impudence surprised no one.

    Normally, the new king would have to kneel on one knee while receiving his crown. This was to show he was humble and to express he would keep his feet on the ground while serving his people.

    By standing and barely lowering his head, only meant Joaquin didn''t n on humbling himself, nor was he nning to treat the position as humble. Even so, the minister carefully ced the crown over Joaquin''s head securely.

    Once Joaquin straightened his back, another person came to his side. Thetter was holding a small cushion where a tiara was ced on top of it.

    Unlike the recognition the emperor needed to ascend the throne, the empress only needed the emperor''s recognition. Thus, Joaquin proceeded to take the tiara and held it in between him and Aries.

    Aries snorted but said nothing further. Just like how Joaquin already showed what sort of ruler he would be, Aries raised her chin while epting the crown. It could be interpreted that she would never bow down to the monarch, her husband, or any other that her action could be interpreted.

    "Perfect." Joaquin smiled in satisfaction, pleased at how she looked perfect wearing a smaller crown that appeared almost the same as his.

    "Hand." He offered his hand for her to sp, raising his brows knowingly. "Don''t make me drag you."

    "Sounds enticing. Fortunately, I''m in no mood to look haggard today." She smirked, sping his hand as they faced the throne. This time, the ministers on the step-up already stepped aside.

    Joaquin and Aries walked hand in hand, slowly but steadily. Every time they took a step up sounded heavier to those who were watching them. Most of them held their breaths, balling their hands into a tight fist until they trembled.

    Their heart sank when Joaquin finally stepped foot on the final step. It was over. Nothing happened, and no one had stopped this madness. The new emperor had risen and there was no turning back now.

    When Joaquin turned around, he smirked in satisfaction. They were all looking up at him while he, on this raised tform, could only look down on them. Fear and helplessness dominated their faces as they imagined their life from hereon.

    What a sight to behold.<sub> </sub>

    "Long live Your Majesty!" Javier''s voice pierced the thick air as he slowly went down to his one knee. His voice and words caused everyone''s heart to shake, which travel down to their bones until it was wobbly.

    One by one, everyone sumbed to their wobbly knees and went down to their knees while yelling, "Long live the emperor, long live His Majesty!"

    Seeing the scene unfold before his eyes, Joaquin enjoyed every bit of their surrender as power seeped deep into his bones.

    ''Finally,'' he thought, glossing his eyes over the men bowing on their knees while hailing him. He turned his head to his side, smirking at the re Aries was shooting at him.

    All his hard work through the years had now shown result, having this empire at his feet. Next, the world would bow down before him. Her pride and disdain would not get in his way because one way or another, she too would have no other choice but to ept him.

    "Come here, my Love." He extended his arm and offered it to her. But when Aries didn''t move in the slightest, he sprawled his arm, grabbed her waist, and pulled her against him.

    "Why do you always want it the hard way?" he wondered, but he was just in a good mood to let her ruin it. "Can''t you see, my love?"

    Joaquin squeezed her waist tighter, motioning his hand towards the sight before them. He took a step, untethered by the crowd in front of them as they were bowing and cheering in sync like a choir. They wouldn''t stop until he told them to, but Joaquin didn''t have a n to tell them to stop and wanted to hear more of it.

    He stood behind her, wrapping his arms around her tiny waist. He bent over until his chin was touching her shoulder, leaning his head to her ear.

    "Look, my love. Just look," he whispered seductively, brushing the apex of his nose against her neck. "Can''t you see what I can do and give?"

    He inhaled through her skin, letting her realize all the resources she might or might not need were here. All she had to do was acknowledge her power and him, and she could have everything: wealth, power, and influence. There was no shortage of what he could give her.

    Her jaw tightened as she kept her eyes on the men who were still hailing, "long liveбн" without stopping. She nced up, unable to understand why Joaquin worked hard all this time just to get this little power. The side of her lips curled up, ncing over her shoulder when he finally stop leeching on her.

    "Amusing," she remarked, her tone a little vague enough to make him wonder whether it was sarcasm or genuine. But either way, Joaquin shrugged it off since he was already numbed with her defiance. That was all she could do anyway, so he was allowing it to make her a little happy.

 Chapter 410 [Bonus Chapter]Execution

    "Silence," Joaquin ordered, waving weakly.

    Their distinguished guest finally stopped chanting, feeling their throat almost bleed from all that yelling. But as soon as they raised their heads, they noticed the knights surrounding them.

    "Since today is the first day of my regime," said Joaquin before they could even ask a question.

    "What are you doing?" a nobleman asked to the knight who approached him, only to hear the exnation from the new emperor himself.

    "As your new emperor, I would like to give you all a toast," Joaquin smirked, ncing at the knights, which was their cue to give the ministers small jars containing a red substance. The confused gentlemen epted the tiny jars with furrowed brows, setting their shaking eyes in the throne''s direction where Joaquin stood with his arm wrapped around the unwilling empress''s waist.

    From the outside, their stature and looks alone were worthy of admiration. No one could argue with that, since it was the truth. A dashing emperor and a peerless beauty. But s, the only good thing about them was their shell, but neither their soul was pure.

    "Under my rule, our Maganti will strive for even greater eminence. And for that to happen, you, my humble subjectsбн" he paused and chuckled, a little pleased with how ''my subjects'' sounded in his ear. "бн will need to be brilliant in every aspect of life. Not just wealth or yourmanding prowess among your fiefs, but also strength and speed."

    "I will bestow you these gifts held within those tiny jars," he added proudly, noticing Aries looked at him with disdain. "Take them as part of my gratitude for your loyalty."

    The gentlemen''s eyes shook at the devious grin stered across the emperor''s face. Their throats bobbed, gazing at the tiny jar in between their fingers. Not knowing the contents inside caused their heart to thud against their chest.

    Was it poison? Was the first question that came through everyone''s head. But what would Joaquin gain by poisoning them all? He already got what he wanted and was now the emperor.

    "Don''t worry," Joaquin cajoled, sensing the reluctance from his humble subjects. "That is not poison. If anything, it''s the opposite."

    He beckoned his hand, urging them to take the jars and drink them. Although the majority of them were reluctant, some people who were determined to survive took a leap of faith. They would die anyway, so they might as well die now.

    When a few had shoved the contents of the tiny jar down their throat, some of them observed how they would react. Seeing that aside from confusion and bitterness that appeared on the courageous gentlemen''s visage, everyone followed one by one.

    As soon as they had a taste of the red liquid, everyone bore the same bewilderment. If their taste buds were correct, what they had drunk was akin to pure blood. They all looked at Joaquin in confusion, waiting for him to enlighten them, but to no avail.

    Joaquin, now the Emperor, simply shed them a satisfied smile. He then set his eyes on Javier, the fifth prince, who also drank a jar that was handed to him.

    "Follow the fifth prince and let him examine you." Joaquin nodded at Javier and nced at the rest. "He will help you realize what these gifts are for. By the time I return here, you will all be enlightened about my generosity."

    "You''reбн sick," Aries muttered, grinding her teeth while keeping her eyes on the noblemen. But her voice only reached Joaquin''s ears, making him chuckle in amusement.

    "I never said I''m not," he leaned closer to her ear and whispered. "Don''t worry. You''ll be next."

    With that being said, the knights assisted the noblemen to their next destination. Meaning, that they weren''t still allowed to leave the pce grounds. Not Yet.<sub> </sub>

    Meanwhile, since it was the new emperor''s first day, Joaquin and Aries couldn''t roll under the sheet to seal their marriage.

    As mentioned, the rising of the new monarch had always been a bloody time. Therefore, their next destination was the front of the imperial pce where they would execute the rest of the royalties and aristocrats to secure the emperor''s position. And also, to set them as an example for those who were ambitious to resist the new emperor.

    These people whose head was about to roll and dye the scaffolds red were important individuals. The third prince, Ismael Imperial, was the second to the throne. If the crown prince, now emperor, died, he would have seeded the throne if the emperor had yet without an heir.

    Modesto Vida. The man whose words mattered to the royal court and to the church followers could incite a rebellion if he were left alive.

    Those two, along with other noblemen, knights under the other royalties, and the knight temrs, who had fought honorably for theirnd and their people sincerely, were now being sentenced to death as sinners and traitors.

    As the man who was reading today''s agenda aloud, barely a few made amotion. Hence, everyone could hear the long list of ''sins'' and ''crimes'' of these men mentioned to the point it was ridiculous.

    But that was the point. The execution wasn''t ying as how it was supposed to be, but more like a mockery to these men on death row.

    Joaquin purposely exaggerated their crimes to the point it soundededy just to let these men and these people know he could do everything he wanted. And no one would stop him, nor did anyone have a say in it.

    Hearing all this, Ismael, who was standing in front of the stair going to the scaffold with his hands bound behind him, could not help but snort.

    "He really has a sick humor," the third prince spat out, grinding his teeth in rage at this indignation.

    Meanwhile, Aries, who was promised to have a special seat, sat daintily on the podium where they could see the execution properly and clearly. Beside her was the emperor, casting her a look from time to time, and holding her hand like a lover.

    She couldn''t hear any protest or anyone trying to disrupt the man reading the list of crimes. But the people''s silence was enough for her to discern it was their silent cries.

    "Tell me if you don''t want to watch anymore."

    She turned her head to her side, only to see Joaquin guide her hand and nt a kiss on the back of her hand. He winked at her, keeping their hands on the armrest of his chair.

    "I won''t force you to watch such barbarity this time," he added solemnly, making her chuckle at his hypocrisy. But instead of pressing his nerves or snatching her hand from him, Aries stared at his side profile in silence until he returned her gaze.

    The second their eyes locked on each other, they heard the man, who had been reading the long list of crimes, yell.

    "And so, with these crimes, the Third Prince, Ismael Imperial, is sentenced to death via guillotine!"

    Cries erupted in the crowd, calling the third prince''s name and pleading for mercy. Along with it was the sound of a bell being tolled.

 Chapter 411 I Loved You... Maybe.

    "And so, with these crimes, the Third Prince, Ismael Imperial, is sentenced to death via guillotine!"

    As cries and pleas erupted in front of the execution tform, Aries and Joaquin, who were at the podium, didn''t make the slightest noise. She kept her eyes on him until his brow arched, casting her a questioning look.

    "I loved you." Aries narrowed her eyes as she whispered as if she just had a realization now. Meanwhile, Joaquin''s pupil momentarily went huge like an aperture of the camera as his breath hitched.

    "What did you say?" he asked under his breath, leaning against the armchair while pulling her hand closer to him.

    "What did you say?" he repeated, just in case she didn''t hear him because of the noise below.

    "I loved you," she repeated, snapping her eyes ever so tenderly. Her eyes scanned the slight surprise he was unable to conceal, but she didn''t smirk in mockery or showed the slightest she intended to mock him for believing her.

    "That time we had Bean," she continued without raising her voice, but he somehow heard her loud and clear. "I think one way or anotherбн you''ve grown in me. I hate to admit it, but youбн that man, the father of my beloved child, was a nice guy."

    "He may not be perfect and there were times he was unbearable to be with. Butбн he was trying." The side of her lips curl up subtly as her eyes softened. "At one point, I told myself, maybe I can try to open up my heart to him and put the past behind us. After all, I don''t think he would smile while listening to the heartbeat in my womb if he doesn''t care about me and his child."

    "He may not realize it, but he also had this adorable side whenever curiosity shines in his silver eyes at the thought of life inside a person''s body. That look in his eyes whenever he was leaning against the wall, staring at my protruding stomach while deep in thought," she added and chuckled, admitting the things she had shunned in the past. "Weбн were almost there, weren''t we? It''s not like I didn''t feel you or your heart. I felt it."

    Aries pressed her lips and smiled, reminiscing about the fleeting time she and Joaquin were peaceful. "My heartбн and Bean''s heart felt your heart and your sincerity." She nodded slightly while her eyes grew slightly watery, but not enough to make her cry.

    Although fleeting, Joaquin tried his best to be a good father to her child. That had always been her goal in the past. It didn''t matter if he would toss her to the side if a daye and he got tired of her, so long as he loved their child.

    If Bean was born, Aries was already prepared to open her heart to Joaquin. After all, she didn''t want to be cruel to the father of her child and she wanted to raise Bean with a loving mother and father. For the sake of that child, she would forget her own grievances.

    "But you killed him right after I had decided, Your Majesty." Her smile grew bitter, swallowing down the tension building up in her throat. "I know you didn''t mean to kill him, but our child still died because of you. Soбн how can I want to have a child when you already killed my family and then our child?"

    <o>,m "Am I cruel to get blinded by anger when you had taken everything from me?" she added as she felt his grip tremble, seeing the firm defenses in his eyes show cracks.<sub> </sub></o>

    "Am I wrong to choose to pretend I don''t know you are the one who carries me to bed every time I fall asleep in that rocking chair? Was it harsh to pretend to be deaf to your words of apology every single night?" Aries raised her brows, tugging his hand slightly. "Is it too much if I cannot forgive you or me for the death of our beloved baby?"

    Joaquin''s lips were drawn in a thin line, swallowing down in his throat. When his quivering lips parted, his voice wouldn''te out. Bean''s existence and those peaceful memories both of them shared were a sensitive topic for him as well. That child''s deathбн hurt him more than her constant defiance. It hurt him more than a deep stab in his flesh.

    That child''s existence and those memories it had left in his parents were tragically beautiful, which both Aries and Joaquin tried to erase. Remembering those times when the two of them were almost бк ALMOST бк there to meet halfway, only brings pain instead of a smile to their faces.

    It only proved that "almost" was never enough.

    "Youbeled your feelings as love, and no one can bend your beliefs about it." Aries smacked her lips weakly, eyes falling to their entwined hands. But like usual, Joaquin was the only one who was holding her while she didn''t make an effort to hold him back.

    Maybe, in the past, if Bean was born into this world, she would hold his hand and delude herself until she would believe she was happy. No one could tell about the future. If their child didn''t die, there was a chance Aries would eventually fall in love with him, since Joaquin could be very considerate at times.

    Obviously, no one would know about that because Bean died and things only went south and then straight to fucking hell.

    "So I guess my feelings were the same." Aries smiled peacefully, as if talking about this to him lifted off a giant burden her heart was carrying. "I am not sure, but maybe, at one point бк that point in our life, in particr бк I loved or considered loving you."

    Joaquin''s eyes softened as he lowered them to their hands, seeing he was the only one holding her like always.

    "Doesn''t matter now," he whispered, squeezing her hand mildly, which only allowed her to feel the tremor in his grip. "Whether or not you loved me or you cannot anymore, it doesn''t matter now, Aries."

    He slowly raised his eyes and offered a subtle smile. "Weбн I cannot reverse the time no matter how I wish I could to love you and Bean properly. And I had already told you, I had already epted anything from you. Hate, disgust, or anything. I cannot be the man you will ever love, but being the person you loathed the most is good enough for me."

    "You areбн indeed, cruel, you." Aries shook her head mildly. "You''re cruel to me, but you''re the cruelest to yourself. I wished I had never met you."

    "Me too, Aries," he replied airily. "I wished I never met you because if I didn''t, we will never be miserable."

 Chapter 412 Where It All Began

    "I wished I never met you because if I didn''t, we will never be miserable."

    When thest syble slipped past Joaquin''s lips, the two of them looked at each other. But this time, there was no hatred in their eyes, but only regret for ever meeting in this lifetime. If only the two of them didn''t meet, they wouldn''t be just as miserable as they were now.

    Because Joaquin couldn''t imagine letting her go ever again and Aries couldn''t stomach being with him for another second. The scars they left in each other''s heart was way too deep and beyond repair. Yet, he couldn''t let her go and chose to embrace this pain.

    He was already miserable, but he would rather have her in this misery.

    If that was not love, Joaquin didn''t know what that was. Till death do them part and only death was would truly set them free.

    As he stared at her, the sound of bells, shouts, and yells of the people slowly sounded distant. He looked into those translucent green eyes mirroring him, making him recall where this all started.

    <strong>Years ago in the beautifulnd of green called Rikhillбн</strong>

    "Your Royal Highness, the King of Rikhill, doesn''t know your presence in this visit бк"

    Joaquin was sittingzily under the tree atop the hill, where he could see the capital. Unlike his usual uniform adorned with golds and jewelry fitting for the crown prince of a formidable empire, he was wearing amoner''s clothes that themon people in Rikhill would wear.

    He raised his hand to halt his soldier''s report. "I''m not nning to create trouble. I simply want to see how thisnd looks from amon person''s perspective."

    Joaquin quirked a brow and cast the knight under a cloak with a sidelong nce. His lips curled up into a smirk, shaking his head. Despite his in clothing, the crown prince still exuded elegance and authority.

    "Leave me alone for now." He waved, inhaling the fresh air while closing his eyes to rest. He leaned back against the trunk, folding his arms under his chest, and smiled subtly.

    "This ce feels different," he mumbled, ignoring the retreating footsteps in his ears. "Very different from Maganti. How niceбн"

    As the crown prince of an empire, Joaquin had a fair share of stress. He rarely had time to rest or breathe, especially, since the pressure on him was ten times that of the deceased crown prince Manuel. Everyone in the Maganti Empire, including the Emperor, was watching his every movement and would depose him at a drop of a hat.

    Everyone in Maganti admired the deceased crown prince, the Emperor''s eldest son, among his many children from different women. They all expected him to be the next emperor, but he died. Despite that he was dead, they couldn''t give the same admiration and recognition to Joaquin.

    If anything, they only knew how to pressure the current crown prince and wanted him to be perfect in every aspect of life. They didn''t require Manuel, nor did they set a ridiculous standard.

    Joaquin''s expression turned sour as he recalled his life as the crown prince. He was in a nice ce and had spare time to idle, but here he was. Instead of rxing, he was thinking about those people''s demises.<sub> </sub>

    His eyes slowly opened, and his frown deepened. "I heard thend of Rikhill is a ce open for diversity," came out a mumble, hearing the soothing whisper of wind and the song of the rustling leaves that sounded more serene than a choir singing.

    "I guess it''s true," he whispered once again, looking ahead. From his vantage point, he could see the capital that appeared to be tiny. Even from this distance, he could already hear the bustling capital, the waves ofughter of the children, the merchants yelling, and the sound of carriages ambling up the dirt road at a slow pace.

    The side of his lips curled up. He couldn''t help butpare the sight before him and the usual scenario in the capital of the empire. The difference in aesthetics was distinct, but the air was different. Although the capital of the Maganti Empire appeared more advanced, the air had always looked so gloomy in his eyes.

    But the capital of Rikhill was bright and despite the distance, he could already feel how lively the ce was. It was amusing for him and his interest in exploring thisnd thrilled him. It wasn''t an everyday urrence for someone like Joaquin to go on an adventure.

    Although his real purpose was entirely different from an adventure, Joaquin wanted to use his time to get to know this ce. After all, the Rikhill and Maganti were in the talks of an alliance. Therefore, he had nothing to worry about.

    With that thought in mind, Joaquin idled under the tree until the sun calmed down after fiercely shining all noon. When the weather was great to walk, Joaquin started his quick trek down the hill and onto the capital of the kingdom of Rikhill.

    Rikhill was just as he imagined it from the hilltop. It was bustling бк even more lively бк than when it was noon, as everyone seemed to be outside their homes. Holding his hand behind him, Joaquin strolled leisurely without people watching his movements.

    It was an experience new to him in over three decades of his life. And because of that, he felt renewed; like a new person far different from the crown prince he had be. He even chuckled when the children ran past him, catching a little girl from falling when she bumped into him.

    The little girl was slightly dirty and covered with sweats from all that running. She looked at him with doe green eyes, curiosity apparent in them while he squatted down in front of her. Never once in Maganti would ever dare meet Joaquin''s eyes бк be it adult or children. But this little girl kept an eye contact without the slightest fear in them.

    "Are you hurt?" his voice was low and maic with a twinge of kindness. The little girl shook her head, clutching her hand close to her chest.

    "So бк sorwie."

    He smiled and patted her head. "Careful, next time."

    "Mhm!" the little girl nodded before she perked up when she heard the other children call for her. She cast him a look before running towards the other children, nearly tripping due to her own clumsiness.

    Watching this, Joaquin chuckled and shook his head. He just told the girl to be careful, but it seemed the little girl was doing theplete opposite. However, he found it amusing as he stood up, continuing his stroll.

    Little did he know, this casual stroll where he didn''t n anything other than to idle would change his lifeбн forever.

 Chapter 413 [Bonus Chapter]Where It All Began II

    When the clear blue sky slowly turned tangerine and the golden rays of the sunset hit thend of Rikhill, Joaquin found himself lost. He was so immersed in walking as amon person, trying out some food from the stalls, dodging careless children, and haggling with merchants, that he didn''t know which part of the capital he was now in.

    He looked around, noticing the people in this district were unlike the bustling capital where he came from. There were barely any people, and the atmosphere was a little gloomy. He tilted his head to the side, scratching his temple, before chuckling to himself. This was so unlike him. Joaquin had always been keen and he would never get lost.

    No amount of distraction could truly distract him ever since he was crowned the crown prince. But here he was, lost in such a small ce, and drifted from his nned route.

    How amusing.

    Joaquin chuckled to himself, still calm despite that the night was about to fall and he didn''t know where he was. His people would take some time to find him because he didn''t tell anyone where he would go. Yet, he wasn''t terrified of his situation.

    He might be an alien to thisnd, but at least he studied the map. Joaquin idled on the same spot, recalling how he drifted from the capital. He rocked his head in understanding as soon as he recalled he was munching peanuts when he noticed a group of suspicious people.

    Out of in curiosity, Joaquin followed their trail but ended up losing them for hisck of urgency. And now, here he was, in the middle of nowhere, which he believed a part of the slums, where peasants lived. It was no surprise that this kingdom had such a ce that differed from the lively capital since slums would always exist. Even in Maganti, they had those poor districts.

    ''Well.'' Joaquin shrugged as he disembarked to return to the inn he would settle for the time being. The royalties of thisnd didn''t know he had already arrived. Although they knew a royalty would visit thend after the Maganti delegation they sent, they didn''t know Joaquin already tagged along with them.

    Joaquin simply followed the tracks he had taken previously. But s, on his way, the sun had already gone down and the narrow street where he followed the group was already dark. As soon as he hit another narrow dark alley, he stopped.

    He raised his silvery eyes, which seemed to shine in the darkness. His eyes instantly met with at least five pairs of eyes idling in the narrow alley, looking in his direction as soon as they felt his presence.

    "He''s the one who had been following us," said one of the men in the alley, sneering. "He might be one of that pig''s men."

    Joaquin kept his straight face, sizing up the men, camouging in the darkness. Just with the men''s tone, he could tell they were looking for trouble. His intention by following them was out of pure curiosity, so Joaquin didn''t exert effort in not getting found out by them.

    Another reason he was amused about. Ever since he came to thisnd, he had been out of his character.

    His lips stretched into a smile that didn''t reach his eyes. And just like how he had embraced his unusual actions, Joaquin raised his hands to his shoulder level.<sub> </sub>

    "I don''t n to fight," he surrendered even before they state their intentions. "Mercy."

    The men snorted as they sized him up from head to toe. Joaquin didn''t look armed, nor did he look familiar with the group of bandits they were having problems with. Still, they couldn''t just lower their guards since the group was frequently recruiting people and hence, catching the attention of the monarch.

    "Take him and let''s bring him to Boss," said one man, spitting out to the side whilst keeping his eyes on Joaquin. The other men looked at each other and grinned. When their eyes fell on Joaquin, their lips stretched from ear to ear as they advanced in his direction.

    The closer they were, the more Joaquin was able to study their physique and their polished daggers. A shallow breath slipped past his lips. Even though he was unarmed, he had ughtered people more than these men could havebined.

    Being the crown prince, assassinations weren''t new to him.

    Therefore, Joaquin could easily fight these men without exerting effort. He waited for the men to enter his vicinity, and nned to knock them all unconscious. He didn''t want to get attention on him and create conflict on his agenda.

    p However, just one step before one of them enter Joaquin''s invisible territory, a figure suddenly appeared from above. A grunt instantly erupted in the still air, followed by a ''thud'' as the mannded face first while the figure stood on top of his back.</anda>

    Joaquin blinked twice, a little taken aback at the turn of events. His eyes fell on the petite figure standing atop the man''s back. Because of the shawl over her head that crawled down her neck, and then across her lower face, Joaquin automatically discerned her as a man. Although she was rather petite and slightly smaller than a man''s stature, her clothing and the machete in her hand proved he was a man.

    But that wasn''t what was important to Joaquin. What truly mattered was whether this person was a foe or a friend. Just by her stance, Joaquin was certain this person was skilled, especially carrying such arge machete.

    "Oy!" Joaquin snapped out of his trance when one of the men who was about to assault him yelled. When he nced at them, his brows furrowed, noticing the caution in their initially bloodthirsty eyes while taking careful steps back.

    "Oy?" A woman''s voice followed, causing Joaquin to narrow his eyes as he searched the source. When his eyes fell on the neer''s figure, Joaquin realized his guess was wrong to think the person was a man when her voice undoubtedly sounded goodбн and sexy.

    The woman swung the machete over her shoulder and tapped it lightly, facing the group of bandits fearlessly.

    "Oy?" she repeated, chuckling in amusement. "Aishбн you people had been giving me a hard timetely, but the first thing you''ll tell me is, oy? Come onбн you''re making my machete tremble."

 Chapter 414 [Bonus Chapter]Where It All Began III

    "Come onбн you''re making my machete tremble."

    Joaquin''s throat bobbed, studying the arrogant air exuding from the woman''s back. She was only alone and her opponent was four grown men. Although Joaquin was certain he could knock them out without breaking a sweat, a man''s base strength was still different from a woman''s.

    She could be agile, he thought, but when he nced at the machete the woman was tapping against her shoulder while her other hand was on her hip, Joaquin cocked his head to the side. For such a petite person, he realized that under that petite physique hid trained muscles. She couldn''t be carrying that machete like it weighed nothing.

    "Run!"

    Joaquin nearly flinched when someone shouted and the four men sprinted away. Much to his dismay, the woman clicked her tongue continuously before she leaped forward.

    ''She''s fast,'' he thought, lips falling open.

    The four men had a five-second head start, but the woman still caught up to them. She was akin to a shadow. If Joaquin slightly cked off in his training, he wouldn''t even catch how the woman knocked them out using the handle of her machete.

    He thought she would butcher them, as that was what her aura gave off. However, she didn''t. For the next two minutes, only the grunt of the men was heard, followed by the noises of their bodies made uponnding on the ground with a thud.

    "Amazingбн" he whispered when thest man hit the ground while the woman pinned his back with her foot.

    "Tsk! You''re lucky I didn''t mince you like a piece of onion!" the woman kicked the man, frustration apparent in her voice. No one could tell if she was frustrated about the bandits being bandits, or that she wasn''t able to use her machete for its proper purpose.

    "Hahбн" Joaquin let out a dry and shortugh, eyes fixed on the woman. However, even before he could call her attention, people suddenly came to the other end of the alley and behind Joaquin''s. He looked back only to see some men riding their steed with torches to light up the dark surrounding.

    "Aime!" An angry voice rang out like a p of thunder. The voice was so loud Joaquin was certain the entire town heard him.

    Joaquin turned his head and searched where the voice came from. His eyesnded on the man riding a steed, along with the people who wereing from behind him. The man jumped out of his steed, stomping his way past Joaquin.

    Joaquin stepped back on instinct, blinking twice, taken aback at the air the man was carrying.

    When he turned his head back to the dark alley, he saw a light on the other end of the alley where the woman was standing. Because of the torches, Joaquin was able to see everything, albeit dim.

    The angry man stopped several feet from Joaquin''s vantage point, crooking a finger at the woman called Aime.

    "Come here, you little shit." The man tried to suppress his anger but to no avail.

    "I didn''t kill them, Davien!" Aime, or what everyone knew was Aries, eximed in panic. "I just knocked them out!"

    "Come!" Davien''s breath hitched, pounding the bottom of his fist against his shoulder. "Here."

    Aries''s face froze, imagining Davien''s shadow grew bigger like a devil. Her brother would kill her this time, making her take a careful step to run back to the pce to hide behind her father''s back. Much to her dismay, when she took another step back, an arm sprawled over her shoulders, causing her to bend over at the person''s weight. The shawl over her head that was covering half of her lower face fell to her shoulders, revealing a peerless beauty.

    "Haha! Where do you think you''re going after running off like that, eh?"<sub> </sub>

    Aries turned her head and winced as soon as she saw Curtis'' grin stered across his face. "Curtis, weren''t we friendsбн?"

    <o>,m "Hehe... You''re dead, my friend." Curtis smirked, dragging the reluctant Aries to Davien, stepping over the unconscious bodies on the ground.</o>

    "I hate you!" she spat out through her gritted teeth, only to receive a devious chuckle from Curtis. Aries nearly wept and ran away when they stood in front of Davien.

    "Brotherбн" came out a small voice, totally different from the bloodthirsty woman just moments ago. "бн you love me, right?"

    "Haha! The nerve of thisdyбн" Davienughed, making Aries gulp while he cracked his knuckles. She shut her eyes when he raised a fist, only to feel a painful flick on her forehead.

    "Ouch!" she barked like a dog, grinding her teeth. "I told you if you''re going to punish me, it should be enough to knock me out!"

    Aries harrumphed on and on while Curtis chuckled, head locking her still. Davien clicked his tongue in irritation, looking at her with utter disdain.

    "You should be thankful I just flicked your forehead instead of smacking your head," Davien huffed, shaking his head in disbelief. "How can you run off like that all alone, huh? And with that machete? Did you think you were going to a ughterhouse? There''s a limit to your recklessness, Aime. What do you think will happen if they were more here?"

    "Then more bodies to collect бк ack!" Aries frowned as she rubbed her forehead when she was once again rewarded with a flick on her forehead. "Davien!"

    "Aime. Another word and I''ll sew your mouth myself." This time, Davien''s eyes darkened, making her purse her lips. Her brother this time was serious and the next time she would open her mouth, he would surely stitch her mouth closed.

    "Haha! Why are you so stubborn when you can''t even continue pressing Davien''s nerves?" Curtisughed, warranting a re from her.

    "I hate you." She clicked her tongue while he released her. Aries rolled her eyes in irritation, but Curtis simplyughed happily. "I''m going to kill you someday, you!"

    "Dealing with you makes me feel ten times older than my age." Davien let out a long-suffering sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose in distress.

    Watching this from the same spot Joaquin was standing on, he cocked his head to the side. Aime? Davien? He narrowed his eyes, recalling where he heard those names. It didn''t take long when Joaquin realized who that woman was and that other man named Davien.

    ''That''s strangeбн'' Joaquin thought, observing the two silently. ''Weren''t they fighting for the title of the heir? Why do they lookбн close?''

    As Joaquin mulled over this ''strange'' rtionship, Aries peeked her head to the side to see past Davien. That second, Joaquin locked eyes with those beautiful and clear green eyes with a beauty that could make anyone''s mouth fall open.

    ''How stunningбн'' Joaquin whispered in his head, having this foreign insecurity in his heart, a little ashamed to present himself wearing such in clothing before her. But s, Aries grinned at him and waved as if they were friends.

    "Are you hurt?" she asked, almost yelling to make sure Joaquin hear her. At the same time, Davien turn his head and Curtis straightened his back until both men were staring back at Joaquin.

    "Uh." That was all Joaquin said; a brief sound that barely reached his own ears under the attention of those three people, intimidated by them, which he never felt before. Surely, Rikhill was different from Maganti and Joaquin had experienced things he had never experienced in the past.

    For example, this feeling of retreating in the presence of the royalties of thend of Rikhill and that other person with them.

 Chapter 415 Where It All Began IV

    "Uh."

    Aries frowned when she only saw Joaquin open his mouth slightly, but didn''t answer. She nced at Davien and then at Curtis, and huffed.

    "Excuse me," she said, patting Davien''s chest using the back of her hand. "It''s my time to act as the knight in a white horse who saved a beautiful damsel in distress."

    Aries winked mischievously and pranced past Davien. Thetter rolled his eyes, feeling his head throb at his devious sister. Meanwhile, Curtis justughed at Davien''s expense and then nced at Aries back. A shallow breath slipped past Curtis''s lips as his smile lines faded when Aries approached Joaquin, whom they believed was the victim here.

    "Are you hurt?" asked Aries as soon as she stood in front of Joaquin. When the man didn''t reply and just kept staring at her, she bobbed her face to examine him. Seeing no visible wounds or bruises, she heaved a sigh of relief and patted her chest.

    "It seems you''re alright." She nodded with a kind smile.

    Joaquin took a moment to recover from the beauty right in front of him. She was gorgeous from afar, like a star shining the brightest, but beyond anyone''s reach. But she was even more beautiful up close. He could imagine himself using all the praises he knew to describe her, but he was certain his vocabry wasn''t enough to give justice to her beauty.

    "Thank you," came out a low and maic voice, offering a subtle smile to her. "If you didn''te, I''ll be in trouble. You are amazing."

    She smiled, cupping her blushing cheek. His brows rose when Aries punched his chest mildly.

    "Goshбн do you think your praise makes me happy?" she was nearly squealing like a little girl, making Davien and Curtis shake their heads.

    "She never learns how to deal withpliments," Curtis breathed out while Davien was already at a loss of words for his sister.

    "I''m not amazingбн at least, not that muchбн goodness, you!" she continued, punching Joaquin''s chest mildly, but quicker. Thetter blinked twice before the side of his lips stretched, chuckling at the silliness of the woman.

    At first, she was akin to a demoness, about to drag everyone back to hell with her. And then, she was acting like a brat in front of her brother and friend while they scold her. Now, she was akin to a little girl, who was clearly happy with the praise but denying it shamelessly.

    Joaquin had never met such a beguilingdy, but one thing was for sure, this silly youngdy had caught not just his attention, but his eyes, and his heart, as well.

    At that moment, Joaquin already knew what he wanted: HER.

    One incident was led to another.

    Thanks to Joaquin''s intel, he was able to track Aries''s movements, and hence, he would see her frequently, which she believed was all coincidence. Every meeting with her was the highlight of his day, and because of her kind and carefree nature, he managed to befriend her.

    Aries, despite being a princess, was different from all the princesses Joaquin had met in his life. Even his little sister Inez, who was the beloved flower in the Maganti Empire, couldn''tpete with her.

    Aries preferred wearing men''s clothing; she liked swords and her skill in archery was better than most knights. Despite her natural gifts, Aries never cked and used her free time to hone her skills whilst sharpening her mind.

    Admirable was an understatement. She was exceptional, phenomenal, and carry a beauty that was just so otherworldly.

    The people of Rikhill admired her just as sincerely as the crown prince Davien. Some were even rooting for her to win the title of the heir, despite being a woman.<sub> </sub>

    The more Joaquin grew closer to her, the more his budding feelings bloomed. But s, she had only seen him as a friend. No matter how he wanted to go closer, there was just this invisible and unbreakable wall that he just couldn''t break through.

    Was it because she knew he was amoner?

    Joaquin had pondered about this thought many times at the stagnant progress of his friendship with her. And the more this wall separating her and him grew familiar, Joaquin would sod whenever Curtis and Davien were around who often took her attention.

    Jealousy arose in his heart every time he would look at her and she was smiling, especially in front of those two.

    Joaquin was a man, so he understood a man''s heart. Davien might not have any romantic feelings for Aries, but in Joaquin''s twisted brain, it was possible. Intermarriage was still allowed in other ces, and thews could be bent anytime.

    Although this was all hypothetical, what Joaquin was certain of was that Curtisбн was the same as Joaquin. That man was in love with Aries. But unlike Curtis, who was already satisfied with being just her friend, Joaquin was different.

    <o>,m Consumed with jealousy and determination to make her his, Joaquin revealed his true identity when the time of the crown prince of the Maganti Empire visited thend of Rikhill. He could still remember the shock on Aries''s face as soon as they met inside the pce; he didn''t care about Curtis''s and Davien''s reactions, but they were just as dumbfounded.</o>

    Joaquin thought if she knew he was the crown prince, she would understand that he was worthy of her love. But he was wrong. Instead of epting him, Aries grew wary of him and grew distant, doubting their friendship and his intention for going incognito and staying in thend of Rikhill.

    He was patient бк he tried to.

    He wanted to show her his sincerity and gain her clemency for hiding his identity. Although Joaquin was sessful in gaining her trust after weeks of ''courtship'' (which she never thought it was), Joaquin asked for her hand in marriage.

    "I fell in love with you at first sight," Joaquin confessed, standing before her in the middle of the garden in the inner west pce. "And you never left my mind since."

    He reached for her hand and smiled at her lovingly. "Marry me, Aime."

    "What?" her brows furrowed, trying to digest this sudden proposal, which she thought was just a casual walk.

    "Marry me," he repeated with a smile. "I may not make you my empress, but I will love you dearly. I''m marrying you because I love youбн"

    Aries lowered her eyes as his voice sounded more distant, unable to digest all this ridiculous promation of love. He wanted her, but he was saying he wouldn''t make her his empress? Not that Aries have such an ambition, but anyone with a sound mind would find this ridiculous.

    Moreover, Joaquin knew she had beenpeting with Davien all this time for the title of the heir. What was he babbling about?

    Amid the confusion, Aries snatched her hand from him and looked at him in dismay. She shook her head, opening and closing her mouth like a fish. When she recovered her voice, she only spat out one word.

    "No." Aries wanted to say more, but instead, she took a step back before leaving without a word of exnation. If only she knew that that action of her and her refusal was the trigger to drive him crazy, she would''ve chosen to answer carefully.

    But Ariesбн wasn''t aware that Joaquin would stop at nothing to get what he wanted. She wasn''t aware that she was the only one whom he tried to get without using force, but her refusal and the audacity of the king for negotiating with the Maganti led Joaquin to the methods he was so familiar with.

    And thus, the reason they were on this podium, watching the execution of those who opposed Joaquin.

 Chapter 416 An Uprising

    A knight grabbed Ismael''s shoulder and dragged him to the scaffold, kicking the back of his knee to make him kneel on the surface. The knight didn''t hesitate to push him down until his neck was on the lte.

    As he secured the lte, Ismael held his breath as he looked up. He had seen many executions in the past, and he had always wondered what sight those people see before the inevitable end. But unlike the dread he would usually see on those felons that used to be in his shoes, his lips curled up subtly.

    The sight before him was beautiful and touching. The tears that were flooding the people''s faces and their indistinct cries moved his heart. They weren''tughing at his demise, nor were they mocking him.

    That aloneбн was good enough for him.

    "Manuelбн" Ismael whispered as his eyes softened, letting a tear roll down his cheek. "бн why am I happy?"

    Ismael was lost in the moment, despite knowing he was about to get executed. The reason was simple. For him, it felt rewarding to see that these people cared for him despite the nder that was being read aloud moments ago.

    It only told him he was good. Regardless of hiscking in many things, he wouldn''t die carrying the hatred of the people he was fighting for. Even if he believed he didn''t deserve the tears they were shedding for him, he felt ''shamelessly'' happy about it.

    And that doesn''t make him regret sticking to what he believed. Them. The people of the Maganti Empire. He believed in them, and his pride for fighting for them and for theirndбн even if he had to turn against his own blood, it was something he would never regret.

    Ismael drew a breath and nced up at the podium. There, Joaquin and Aries were looking at each other. He caught Joaquin''s lips moving, trying to read what his brother was trying to say.

    "I wished I never met you because if I didn''t, we will never be miserable," Joaquin stressed while looking into Aries''s eyes. "If only you didn''t appear that dayбн I would''ve knocked those bandits unconscious and gone with my life."

    Her lips were drawn into a thin line as she swallowed a mouthful of saliva. "I wished I stayed behind that night tooбн"

    Aries and Joaquin simply stared at each other in silence after recalling how the two of them met. And while they were immersed in regretting how they met in this lifetime, a distinct cry erupted on the execution tform.

    Joaquin furrowed his brows, while Aries''s expression didn''t change a bit.

    "What the hell do you think you are doingбн?" he asked under his breath, tightening his grip around her hand.

    "Just as exactly as what you had expected, Your Majesty," she replied, blinking ever so tenderly. "People who were fighting for what is right and for the people... they will never go down бк at least, not easily."

    ? Joaquin ground his teeth and released her hand, springing up from his chair to the railing to see the current situation. His eyes firstnded on the execution tform, catching the executioner dead on the ground with an arrow in his chest.

    His eyes veered towards the crowd and people were already fighting the soldiers on-site, while some were evacuating. Joaquin''s eyes darkened, seeing that this wasn''t themon problem usually seen in executions.

    It was a rebellion.

    Joaquin ground his teeth, seeing that Ismael was now free from the lte. A knight wearing a royal knight helped the third prince, and now it was just a rumble. Knights versus the rebels, and knights versus knights, who were trying to free the rest who were still tied up waiting for their turn at the guillotine.<sub> </sub>

    "Aries!" Joaquin roared as he looked back, but she didn''t budge from her seat.

    "Why do you look surprised, Your Majesty?" her tone was calm and her expression was cold, looking at him straight in the eyes. She caressed the armrest and pushed herself leisurely, keeping her chin up.

    "Don''t tell me you didn''t expect this, Your Majesty?" she inquired, tilting her head to the side. "Isn''t this amon problem? Since Roman disappeared from his cell, he would surely do something to stop this madness."

    "If a war is what His Majesty wants, then His Highness, the seventh prince, will happily give that." She smiled amicably. "And Her Majesty will happily assist."

    Joaquin balled his hand into a fist, taking a step, and grabbed her by the scruff of her neck. "If you know I had already foreseen this uprising, why deliver them all to death?"

    "Becauseбн why not?" she smirked, unfazed by the slight tug when he grabbed a portion of the back of her hair. "No one knew the future, Your Majesty. You may prepare as much as you want, but that only gives you a slight chance to stand victorious in the end."

    Her eyelids drooped, but unable to conceal the amusement and contempt pooling in her eyes. "Have fun, Your Majesty. I hope you protect your throne from those who wanted to take it."

    "Hahaбн" Joaquin seethed, gripping her hair tightly until a few were plucked out of her scalp. "I''ll make sure to deliver their heads to you on a silver tter."

    He released her hair and flung his arm back, hitting his cape, which made it flutter. He nced at the knight guarding the podium.

    "Take her back and make sure to lock her securely." Joaquin set his eyes back to her and smirked. "If the rebel won, you''d get burned inside the inner pce. But if I return there, you better prepare yourself, for I had many means to set you straight, Aries."

    Aries smirked and kept her eyes on him while the knight approached her. But just as the knight crossed her invisible territory, Aries swiftly snatched the sword hanging to his hips and struck his throat without a second break.

    Blood sshed on her white bridal dress. She held her skirt and wiped the blood on the de with it while the knight''s bodynded with a thud.

    "Ariesбн" Joaquin''s eyes darkened, seeing her movements were just as agile and precise as before. If she retaliated now, she would surely keep him busy for a moment. After all, this womanбн with her sword, was no ordinary woman or princess.

    Aries was a beast with a weapon in her hand.

    "Haha." Aries chuckled as she cocked her head and looked at him unenthusiastically. "Don''t worry, my dearest emperor. I simply didn''t want to be forced again. I will return to the inner pce myself."

    She looked at herself on the polished des of the de, mirroring her beautiful countenance despite the slightly disheveled hair.

    "After allбн I have a wedding to attend."

 Chapter 417 [Bonus Chapter]Something She Can Gloat

    "After allбн I have a wedding to attend."

    Aries winked, tossing the sword to the side and skipping to the exit. Aries stopped at the entrance and looked at the knights blocking her path. Her lips curled until her eyes squinted.

    "Move," she said. "Or you''ll only have five seconds to bid your family farewell."

    The knight''s throat bobbed at the sight of her bright aura, yet it still sent a chill down their spine. They nced at Joaquin on instinct, and to their dismay, Joaquin was simply staring at the empress''s back with brooding eyes.

    "Follow her," Joaquin ordered, watching Aries look back at him and smile.

    "Good boy," she crooned and then nced back at the knights. "You heard His Majesty. Follow me, but don''t touch me."

    The knights cleared their throat and stepped aside, letting her pass voluntarily. Aries didn''t idle as she skipped her steps with her hand behind her. Her misced mood was truly theplete opposite of the pandemonium outside.

    Meanwhile, Joaquin kept his eyes on the exit where Aries left. His fist was trembling, grinding his teeth. After all those tortures, Aries was able to recover from how she was before. Surely, Haimirich treated her well with their advanced medical technology and effective medicines.

    "Your Majesty!" suddenly, Hernan''s panicking voice came from the opposite door across the exit Aries had taken.

    Joaquin huffed and nced over the railings. "We will end the Valiente today. Find Roman and Ismael, and bring their heads to me. Today''s execution will proceed as nned."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Hernan bowed solemnly, rather calm at the situation since he was confident everything was going just as nned. When Hernan raised his head, he nced around and furrowed his brows upon seeing a knight''s dead body on the floor.

    "Her Majestyбн"

    "Send men to lock her up," Joaquin answered, knowing what Hernan could be worrying about at this point. "Once we eliminate all those irrelevant pests, we will have to prepare for an all-out war against the Haimirich Empire."

    His eyes darkened even more as his jaw clenched. "Either they attack us right after the end of the Valiente or wait for a while. Whatever the case, tell Javier to prepare our people. I will not allow those people to take what is mine."

    Hernan held his breath and gulped a mouthful of saliva. By the tone of Joaquin''s voice, Hernan was certain the emperor was positive this would happen.

    It was a good thing Joaquin had considered all angles and possible setbacks, Hernan thought.

    "Yes, Your Majesty." He ced his fist across his chest once more before hearing Joaquin''s cape flutter as thetter marched away. Hernan followed and separated from the emperor halfway on their way to the royal pce.

    <strong>*******</strong>

    "Ugh!"

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    Aries closed her eyes and stretched her neck from one side to the other, massaging her stiff shoulder from not using it for quite some time. When she reopened her eyes, her gazended on the two knights lying face-first on her feet.

    "I told them not to touch me," she mumbled, shaking her head. "Nor I want to be forced again."

    She nced at the sword she looted from them and wiped it on her white dress, adding more colors to it. Her eyes squinted for a bit, gazing at the blood on her dress a little longer.

    <o>,m Before stepping foot in thisnd, she promised she would dye this dress red.<sub> </sub></o>

    And nowбн her white dress was no longer pure, just as it made her appear. Her hands weren''t clean and her some of her hair was falling from its braids.

    Aries grabbed the rubber tying the tip of her hair and took off the pins plunged into her green hair. After removing all of them, she simply grabbed a handful of her hair and tied it into a high ponytail. As soon as she finished, the sound of footsteps she had been hearing came to a halt.

    "Hehбн" she smirked, ncing over her shoulder before turning on her heel to face them.

    The knights darted their eyes from the empress to the knights near her feet, and that blood-stained across her white dress. Anger soon reced the confusion dominating their faces.

    "Don''t let her get away!" yelled one knight after concluding the empress was trying to take advantage of the revolt to escape. Joaquin ordered them to take her to a safe ceбн by hook or by crook.

    When she held onto the sword, she looted from the knight she slew, the knights also drew their swords.

    "Don''t kill her," said the same knight solemnly. "As much as possible, we wouldn''t want to hurt you, Your Majesty. But as the order of His Majesty, we cannot бк"

    "The only way to make mee with you is to kill me." Aries abruptly cut him off with a sinister smirk. "Because Iбн will not miss my own wedding."

    With that being said, the knights'' eyes zed, and in a heartbeat, they vaulted towards her while Aries took a stance. She flung her arm as she thrust her sword forward, letting the sound of metals and shouting deafen her ears.

    Aries swiftly shed their limbs, kicking them in the air, and simply bing one with the sword.

    She was fast, and fighting in such a narrow hallway gave her an advantage. des cut through her skirt, ripping a portion of it, but the showdown continued.

    In their eyes, even when a de graze her, she wouldn''t budge as if she couldn''t feel any pain anymore.

    Two years of tortureбн surely gave her the advantage of increasing her pain tolerance. This simple graze was not enough to hurt her. But s, this realization came toote for the knights as Aries''s every blow was fatal, aiming only for their vitals.

    And before they knew it, darkness would follow.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    "Ahбн!" thest standing knight slumped on the floor as he raised his chin, holding his breath at the tip of the bloody sword, pointing at his throat. His eyes shook when he looked up, and all he saw was a demoness looking down at him.

    "I told you," said Aries, cocking her head to the side, unfazed by the blood across her body and face, and the exposed skin with her ripped skirt. "The only way to take me with you is by killing me. Otherwise, there''s no way I''ll walk with my own two feet to be imprisoned by him again."

    The knight''s lips quivered, opening and closing it, but to no avail. He pissed himself when Aries swung her sword up and he shut his eyes. But the pain didn''te. The knight slowly opened his eyes, and it went huge when all he saw were dead people lying lifelessly in the hallway. When he turned his head back, Aries waved nonchntly, without looking back.

    "Be good from now on," she saidzily. "Thank that bastard Ismael for torturing me and making me read all the knights'' records for weeks."

    The knight was in tears upon receiving mercy, crawling and kowtowing to express his gratitude. "Your Majesty! Thank you for sparing me!"

    Her steps didn''t falter despite the knight''s gratitude, but instead, continued to walk away.

    "I guess I can gloat about this to His Graceбн" she smiled, thinking that the knights she came face to face with were nothingpared to the training she went through under Isaiah. That Duke, although often hated by Dexter and Conan, was an excellent instructor.

 Chapter 418 [Bonus Chapter]Token Of Gratitude

    "Ah!!"

    Aries roared at the top of her lungs until her throat turned taut, wheezing. Her face and body were nearly covered with blood, but not all were hers. The tip of her sword was dripping with blood, thest remnants of life from those who died in it.

    The knights who got in her way were either knocked unconscious or died. But never once did Aries look back to see or regret. She kept moving forward, navigating her way through the hallway and dyeing it red if she must.

    Her stiff shoulders rxed as she dropped her hand along with the sound of another thud which drifted in themotion echoing from the outside. Aries turned to her left, eyesnding straight on the window. She didn''t move a muscle for minutes, catching up to her breathing, until the transparent ss mirrored her.

    <strong>That was her,</strong> she thought. That woman looking back at her who had bathed in blood, a woman with sullied hands, a wretched soul corrupted by hatred and malice.

    Thest remnants of the Aries she had known бк the mischievous princess who had always fought for what was right бк was gone.

    All that remained was a damned mad woman, a queen of hell, a sadistic killer.

    Aries dragged her feet towards the window and nted her hand on it. Blood instantly stuck on its surface, leaving her prints as she moved her hand to the reflection of her eyes. Despite everything that had happened and how she appeared to havee out from a tub of blood, her eyes didn''t bear the slightest regret.

    Althoughбн her eyes looked exhausted.

    "Abel," she whispered, smiling subtly, caressing the reflection of her eyes to wipe the invisible tears she couldn''t shed. "Are you there?"

    Aries waited for his voice toe through, but it didn''t. All she could hear was the continuous metal shing, yelling, and life fading. She looked past her reflection and saw that the Valiente Group, led by a man in full-body armor already breached the gates. Even without seeing that person''s face, Aries was able to recognize the man with just his physique and the air he carried.

    Roman.

    Her lips curled up, relieved to see the seventh prince swinging his sword without a problem. She hadn''t seen Modesto, Climaco, and Ismael since leaving the podium, but she had good faith in them.

    "I cleaned the wayбн" she murmured, lowering her eyes and setting her focus back on her reflection. "бн they were not my people but Iбн I sympathize with them."

    The people in the Maganti Empire, although she loathed every single citizen in this nation, Aries couldn''t me all of them. After all, the peopleбн were innocent. Just like those in thend of Rikhill. Those who deserved damnation were the people in power like Joaquin, thete emperor, Aries, Davien, thete king of Rikhill, and the list goes on.

    A part of her believed the downfall of Rikhill was partly because the royalties were stubborn. Although their reason for fighting was quite admirable, it wasn''t wise nor it was practical. However, although she believed they deserved death for not being able to withstand a formidable opponent, being stubborn was not something she would regret.<sub> </sub>

    Quiteplicated, but they fought for what they believed, even if it was foolish.

    It was the same with these people in Maganti. Although it was foolish to go up against someone like Joaquin, who had nned for this moment for years, she would foolishly put all her bets on Ismael and Roman, Modesto, and the courageous Valiente Group.

    "This is all I can helpбн" she breathed out. "бн the rest is all on you."

    Aries rocked her head mildly, smiling subtly even though those people wouldn''t see her frail cheer. Initially, she nned everyone''s demise and wanted to do the execution herself.

    However, staying in thisnd as the crown princess, Aries learned many things.

    She had stopped pointing fingers and recognized where she went wrong in the past, her heart, and the life she wanted in the future. Therefore, instead of total destruction, she wanted to believe in those men''s hearts regardless of the blood running in them and the name they carry.

    "I hope they can win what I бк we in the Rikhill бк had lost." She swallowed a mouthful and breathed out.

    Aries slid her hand down from the window, leaving blood marks on it. She slowly turned on her heel, dragging the bloody sword to her side, leaving a line on the suede carpet and then on the floor. Her slow steps didn''t falter despite hearing hurried footsteps echoing across the imperial pce.

    When she turned left, she stopped. She raised her head ever so slowly, narrowing her eyes upon catching a figure ahead. There was Javier, the fifth prince,ing out of one room.

    Javier stopped upon sensing a person''s gaze from the other end of the hallway. He slowly turned his head and furrowed his brows, catching a woman in red. Blood dripped from her head, ripped dress, and he could barely recognize her from the thick blood covering half of her face and body. If not for those pair of familiar green eyes, he wouldn''t recognize her.

    "Your Majesty," he called, facing her with a calm smile. "What brings you in here?"

    His brows rose, studying her visage. For a moment, he wondered if that blood on her temple was from a head injury or if she got it after ughtering someone. From his years of expertise, he was certain it was the former.

    "Were you trying to run away and got lost?" he asked, advancing three-step so his voice could reach her vantage point. "It seemed your injury was quite bad. Should I treat it for you?"

    "Your highness, the fifth prince, Javier Imperial," Aries called, dragging her sword up. "Your expertise in medicine is phenomenal. Many times, I nearly died in the hands of the crown prince Joaquin, but youбн bring me back to life. And thus, I sentence you to death... as a token of gratitude for your hard work."

 Chapter 419 Perfect

    "Your expertise in medicine is phenomenal. Many times, I nearly died in the hands of the crown prince Joaquin, but youбн bring me back to life. And thus, I sentence you to deathбн as a token of gratitude for your hard work."

    The faint sounding from all directions slowly faded as the two looked at each other in silence. When a minute had passed, the side of Javier''s lips curled up into a smirk.

    "I didn''t do it for the sake of my brother." Unlike the usual nonchnce Javier disyed in front of everyone including Joaquin, the air he exuded felt different. The corner of his eyes squinted, but was unable to hide the malice in them.

    "You were a good vessel, Princess. After going through hellбн you never lost touch with reality. It was unbelievable," he continued and his voice had a tinge of amusement, like a madman thrilled about a discovery. "I had seen many, many people who would lose their minds after reaching a certain level of pain they had never imagined."

    "But youбн" Javier flicked his finger in her direction. "Nothing broke you. Not the execution of your beloved family, nor the torment of being forced-pleasured by the man you loathed the most. You didn''t break despite the shame of getting dragged naked by the ninth princess, nor walking on a burning hearth. Even running in a freezing winter didn''t break your spirit! It wasбн amazing!"

    He beamed in awe, making her frown as he listed down a few of the sufferings she had gone through. At this point, nothing would faze Aries anymore. Not the past, not the future, and definitely not the present. Although the way he talked like a maniac slightly sent a chill down her spine, she easily squashed it down.

    "You are amazing, Princess Aime." Javier nodded in agreement, smiling with his lips closed. "That is why you were chosen."

    Aries frowned. "Chosen?" she narrowed her eyes, stopping herself from lurching forward and slitting his throat. He was thest one бк except Joaquin бк on her list.

    "Yes. Chosen." Javier smiled. "Chosen to hold something so dearбн even Joaquin would be terrified of."

    "What are you babbling about now?" she took a step forward with her sword thrust ahead. "I can only give you a moment to stall бк"

    "I''m not stalling, Princess. I''m not." He shook his head, keeping calm despite the situation. "I know one day you wille back and exact your vengeance. Although I must admit I didn''t expect you toe back as a crown princess, but I had always known you will when I ordered someone to loosen your ropes that time."

    Aries instantly froze and looked at him nkly. What did he say?

    "Did you really think those ropes wille off easily?" he cocked his head to the side, batting his eyes ever so tenderly. "They''ve always bound you, and never once were you able to escape. Did you think it was all God''s will or as simple as getting lucky?"

    Javier chuckled in satisfaction at seeing the realization wash over her eyes. "Yes, Princess. It is I who gave you that chance to escape this hell." His lips stretched from ear to ear until his teeth were showing.

    For a moment, her mouth opened and closed like a fish, but her voice wouldn''te out. When she recovered, what came was a short and muffled voice. "Why?"

    "Hmm?"

    "Whyбн did you free me?" she asked, this time with a much firmer tone. "What will you attain by freeing me from your brother''s shackles, Javier? What will you get by betraying Joaquin?"<sub> </sub>

    "What will I get?" Javier hummed a long tune and pondered for an answer. After a minute, his lips stretched once more until his eyes were squinting.

    "Experiment."

    "Experiment?"

    "Yes!" he nodded without the slightest shame. "I was intrigued about what you will do once you regain freedom again. Although there''s a little possibility you won''te back, but with your personality, you will surely exact your revenge one way or another. Maybeбн awaken as well."

    Javier leisurely strutted in her direction until he was standing in front of her. Unfazed by the bloodstained woman before him, he tilted his head to the side.

    "Moreover, I betrayed no one, Princess. I stayed with Joaquin because he gives me the liberty to explore and satisfy my interest," he continued in a low voice, holding her gaze without a shred of fear in his eyes. "He doesn''t trust me, but he trusts my enthusiasm to explore new things, or excavate those that shan''t exist."

    His lip curled up, sizing her up as if he was staring at his own creation. "You were my masterpiece, Princess." He nodded encouragingly.

    "And dying in your handsбн is an honor." Javier took another step and caressed her cheek, unfazed by the blood that stained his knuckles. "You are so perfect and wonderful... Maleficent."

    Aries didn''t budge as she studied the thrill gleaming in his eyes. Everything he had said didn''t make sense to her, but somehow, her head throbbed at hisst remarks. She narrowed her eyes, studying him solemnly and silently. She was no stranger to lust, but Javier didn''t give off the same air. Although his aura of madness was distinct, she couldn''t exactly point out what it was exactly.

    But what she was certain was that this manбн saw her as a doll he sewed himself. Aries blinked ever so tenderly, slowly putting all his nonsense at the back of her head where she could think about itter.

    "If dying in my hands is an honorбн" Aries took a calm step forward, decreasing their distance. "Then die with honor."

    A wet squishy sound caressed their ears as he clutched her shoulders on instinct. Her cold expression remained. Pulling out the sword that was plunged into his stomach, only to thrust it back one more time.

    Javier coughed out blood, staining her already bloodstained shoulders. His fingers pressed on her skin, but the blood and sweat covering her skin eventually led him to slide down to his knees after getting stabbed multiple times.

    Aries took a step back and as soon as she did, Javiernded face first with a thud. She didn''t even bat an eye when blood pooled underneath his body. Her lips parted, but no words came out.

    In the end, Aries turned on her heel and walked away silently and slowly, without looking back or revealing any sense of aplishment for eliminating everyone on her list. All that was revealed in her eyes was exhaustion from all that fighting and the wounds unseen underneath the thick red covering her.

    Little did she know, as she left the area where Javier''s body was, his fingers twitched minutes after she went away.

 Chapter 420 Mayhem

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    "Joaquin!" Ismael roared as he navigate through the entrance of the inner pce. Behind him were the royal knights, who pledged loyalty to him. After a tiring task of forcing his way in with the help of the Valiente Group, who were still resisting the knights outside the Imperial Pce, he had reached this far.

    Ismael hadn''t seen Roman since he escaped the guillotine, but he was certain with all themotions heard from inside and outside the imperial pce, Roman had already made his way inside. He and his entourage halted when another unit of royal knights blocked their path.

    His eyes glinted, holding his sword tighter. "Where is Joaquin?"

    "Impudent!" a knight howled back. "How dare you, a lowly criminal, address His Majesty so shamelessly?"

    "Tch." The third prince snorted, stretching his neck from one side to another. "That''s rightбн he''s the emperor now."

    Another wave of weak chuckles that sounded a bit sarcastic escaped his mouth. His eyes glinted dangerously, forgetting all the fatigue seeping into his muscles and pumping adrenaline into his veins. Being locked for days and eating barely enough was deterring his movements, but his will to fight forced him to carry his sword and march through the capable knights'' head-on.

    He couldn''t fall now.

    This was now or never; the day that could be hisst day in this world or the day of regaining liberty from the shackles that had been guing theirnd.

    Ismael raised his sword up and yelled. "Take down anyone who gets in our way for freedom!"

    The knights behind him roared with their swords up, and without a moment''s notice, they all leaped forward. The sound of metals and roars from both parties erupted in the already deafening air. Specks of blood continuously sshed on the floor and walls, but the fierce battle raged on.

    No one wanted to back down because this was a kill or be killed situation.

    Only one victor would rise in the end, and both forces aimed to be the victor for their own greed or for their people.

    <strong>****</strong>

    <strong>On the other side of the Imperial Pceбн</strong>

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    Roman kicked a knight''s body thatnded at his feet. The hallway he came from was filled with bodies lying on their own pool of blood and ahead was slightly clean since he just executed thest knight who tried to stop him. Aside from him, no one was around, almost making it unbelievable how a single person could cause all these disasters without gaining a single scratch on his armor.

    He came in as silently as a storm and everywhere he stepped foot, the traces of disaster were the only proof left. Yet no one knew his destination.

    The blood dripping from the tip of his sword sounded overly loud in his ears while the other noisesing from all directions where a fight broke out slowly sounded distant. Roman closed his eyes and drew a breath. When he reopened them, his eyes behind his visor glinted dangerously.

    ''In the name of freedomбн'' he uttered in his head, resuming in his heavy steps. ''бн I will end you, Joaquin.''

    <strong>*******</strong><sub> </sub>

    <strong>[ The emperor''s audience hall ]</strong>

    Joaquin sat down on his throne while Hernan and a few ministers, who had been by his sides since the beginning, stood before the raised tform. His eyes were on fire, letting the silence reign over them.

    "The Valienteбн breached the imperial pce?" he repeated under his breath, making everyone''s throat bob nervously. Joaquinughed with a smirk, shaking his head mildly.

    "So they had trained this well, huh? As expected from Roman." His eyes fastened with amusement.

    Joaquin had foreseen thising. On the day of Ismael''s execution, Roman would make a move one way or another. Roman didn''t necessarily need to move from where he was hiding to deploy his guerris and stop the execution.

    That was the n, after all.

    To use Ismael''s execution to lure out the Valiente Group, where Joaquin nned to end them once and for all. His orders were to keep the Valiente Group at bay and stopped them from setting their foot inside the imperial pce.

    However, the current situation proved that their convenient n had failed.

    "But wellбн it is not like I didn''t consider any setback." Joaquin rocked his head mildly.

    Fights had broken out within the outeryer of the imperial pce; knights versus the resistance group, and then the knight temrs from the church. Two against oneбн perhaps three, since some royal knights were siding with the third prince.

    "Although the fight was still too far from the heart of the imperial pce, one or two will surely manage to sneak in." Joaquin''s smirk slowly faded, reced with nothing but sharpness and wickedness in his eyes. "Hernan, release them."

    Hernan''s back stiffened as hisplexion turned pale. "But бк but Your Majestyбн releasing them within the pce grounds is risky. They might attack our knights бк" He abruptly stopped when Joaquin''s eyes fell on him, making him lower his head.

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    "Your Majesty!"

    Suddenly, a knight''s voice rang from the entrance on the side, catching everyone''s attention. The second Joaquin''s eyes fell on the knight''s figure standing by the door, his brow arched.

    The knight gulped, standing straight with his fist across his chest. "Your Majesty, Her Majesty had resisted her arrest and had ughtered the knights who were tasked with escorting her out of the pce."

    "Tch." Joaquin clenched his teeth in irritation, eyes burning in rage at Aries''s nonstop defiance. Did she think she has any other ce to go? Even if Aries escaped now, using the chaos to her advantage, Joaquin would chase her to the pits of hell if he had to.

    Joaquin pushed himself up from his throne, raising his chin at the people below him. "Hernan, settle everythingбн" he trailed off when the knight by the door suddenly flew inside, straight to the opposite wall.

    For a moment, everyone held their breath, eyes on the cracks in the wall where the soldier crashed into. When they turned their eyes on the door, all they saw was a man in his blood-stained full armor suit.

    The side of Joaquin''s lips curled up. "Roman, wee," he called, drawing his sword while the rest stand back.

 Chapter 421 [Bonus Chapter] Foolish Hearts

    "I had been waiting for you, brother." Joaquin''s eyes shone with blood lust, unfazed by the domineering aura the seventh prince was exuding. "Hernan, take everyone out and execute my orders."

    "But Your Majesty!" Hernan''s face contorted when all he received from the emperor was a re. His heart thudded, balling his hands into a tight fist. Hernan was aware Joaquin was telling them to go, not because wanted to protect them. Hell. No.

    Joaquin would tell them to draw their swords or be his shields if he didn''t feel like fighting. However, Hernan couldn''t help but feel slightly demotivated by the emperor''s orders. How could it not?

    Roman was one of the best swordsmen in Maganti. Although Carlos had won against the seventh prince in the past, that was because the eighth prince had used underhanded means. The main point here was that Roman was a threat to Joaquin.

    The crown prince, now crowned the emperor, was a master swordsman as well. But Hernan was a person who didn''t like to take a gamble with a fifty-fifty chance of survival. But Joaquinбн was already set to end Roman himself.

    Having no power to stop the emperor, Hernan ground his teeth and bowed. He yelled when he turned on his heel and faced the few ministers present.

    "You heard His Majesty!" his voice echoed, snapping everyone back to their senses. "Go now!"

    Hernan motioned his arm at the other exit to give the seventh prince and the emperor some space to fight all out. Fortunately, Roman wasn''t the type to chase after small flies like them. When Hernan looked back for thest time, he ground his teeth and wished for Joaquin''s safety.

    While Hernan and the ministers fled, Roman stood motionless on the same spot. His eyes, however, never left Joaquin''s figure. Just like him, Joaquin sized him up from head to toe and amusement instantly flickered in his silver eyes.

    "How amusing," muttered Joaquin to his brother, who was standing before him like he was in his best shape. "No wonder your guerris were able to breach the Imperial Pce. You created a path for them."

    Joaquin walked on the same spot until he was fully facing Roman, pointing his sword at him. "Not just thatбн but it seemed you had recovered in such a short time. I wonder why."

    "Joaquin Imperial," called Roman under his breath, eyes glinting. "Do you see what is now going on in this ce? Lives are being taken, blood dyeing the ground, and cries for help echo and would soon reach the heavens."

    "Is this the kind of empire you wanted?!" Roman''s voice echoed like thunder, panting for air at the increasing anger filling his chest. Outside, this ce was nothing but a heartbreaking sight to behold, but what was even more disheartening was thatбн this war wasn''t a war against another empire or kingdom.

    The real horror of this day was that theyбн were fighting amongst themselves.

    "Those people outside were the people our royal family promised to protect, Joaquin. They were the ones the knights pledged to fight for, not the people they should fight to death. You are killing ournd, Your Majesty." Roman seethed in anger. His grip around his sword trembled in rage the more he stared at Joaquin''s remorseless smirk, despite causing this mayhem.

    "Killing ournd?" Joaquin snorted. "No, Rome. I am not killing ourndбн I am rebuilding it to create and only a strong can survive."

    "Only the strongбн you mean only monsters can survive?" Roman corrected, making Joaquin arch a brow.

    "So you knewбн" Joaquin narrowed his eyes. "No wonder you are fighting on your own two feet, despite getting your limbs severed just days ago."

    The emperor licked his lips, his intrigue increasing. "Who helped you?"

    "You know who helped me."<sub> </sub>

    "Aries knows nothing about them."

    "You showed her how you disgraced our father." Roman''s eyes dted slightly, swallowing down the tension in his throat. "Our Father, Joaquin. The man whose blood runs in our very veinsбн you disgraced that man."

    "That man deserved it," Joaquin stressed without the slightest shame. "That is what he gets for holding on to the dead. How this empire came to this day is partly his fault. Your father created me, and thus I created him."

    Roman''s jaw tightened at the stupidest reasoning for his brother''s actions. It was unbelievably stupid he felt like throwing up.

    "You are foolish, Joaquin." Roman shook his head, realizing this conversation was no longer needed. Joaquin would believe everything he wanted to believe, and shun other facts just so he wouldn''t regret his actions. The crown prince, now the emperor, had fallen too deep into the abyss of ambition and greed. He was blinded and unable to see the light.

    Even so, Roman couldn''t help but mumble things through his gritted teeth.

    "Fatherбн" he bent his knees, eyes glinting at Joaquin. "бн never deserves such cruel punishment!"

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    In a blink of an eye, their swords produced a deafening ng of metals as Roman lurched forward while Joaquin blocked his attack easily. While the seventh prince was grinding his teeth, Joaquin was smirking deviously.

    "Youбн do not understand Father''s heart." Roman breathed out, pushing the sword between them until both des rattled from either force.

    "Hahбн no, Rome. I understand him full well."

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    This time, Joaquin pushed his sword and kicked Roman''s metal tes, causing thetter to hop back. While their feetnded on the floor several feet away from each other, Roman shook his head.

    "I might sound like finding an excuse for Father, butбн for a man who had lost his beloved son once, no one can me him if he wanted his other son to be perfect to avoid an untimely death." Roman''s voice shook and his neck underneath his armor turned taut. "For you, Father simply held onto the ghost of his deceased son. But for him, he simply wanted you to survive the vile environment with the crown you are carrying, even if it means sacrificing a father and son bond."

    Roman took a stance once again, watching Joaquin''s expression turn cold. "But you will not ept that, will you? Because if you do, you''ll only question every decision you made until now."

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    Their swords once again shed, but this time, Joaquin only held his sword with one hand. His expression was unfazed by everything Roman spewed.

    "You''re right, Rome," came out a rasped voice. "I will never acknowledge your truthбн even if it was, in fact, the truth."

    And with that, the two shed with their sword. Every blow grew heavy and fatal. A match that they were aware would only be over if one of them died, and neither of them wanted to lose their life.

 Chapter 422 [Bonus Chapter]Finally

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the small chapel inside the inner pceбн</strong>

    Abel was standing in front of the altar, staring at the golden cross mounted behind the altar and onto the wall. Unlike the strong scent of blood pervading the air of the capital, along with the pungent smell of thick smoke, the chapel''s air was riched with the scent of flowers blooming in spring.

    Everyone inside and outside the imperial pce was covered with blood and sweat from all that fighting, but he was wearing a clean white suit. Not a sweat in sight. His hair was brushed neatly to his back, a flower peeking out in the chest pocket of his well-ironed suit.

    From afar, one would wonder if he was a Reverend, who would sermon the sacredness of purity. Others might have a different perception of him as a statue of an angel morphed into a man.

    "Sad." His expression was dead, and no one except him knew what he was thinking right this very second. "How you were able to ignore the cries of your children? Were you that lonely that you want your children to join you up there in your paradise?"

    Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly, already used to such chaos in his life. This wasn''t the first mayhem he had seen, and definitely not thest. Everything was akin to a repeat, and if he was going to be honest, he already knew the oue: countless lives would be taken, one would rise, and the empire would recover not soon but eventually.

    That had been the cycle of humankind.

    They fight amongst themselves only to make peace and call it part of history. For thousands and thousands of yearsбн humans would massacre each other, but they had never gone extinct.

    If they all died бк humans бк would this world be a better ce?

    "Definitely, it''ll be boring," he murmured, answering his own inner question.

    Abel snapped his eyes ever so tenderly, turning on his heel to face the very few men upying each pew. Conan was sittingzily in the front, yawning after arranging the chapel for this wedding.

    Isaiah was sitting in the same row where Conan sat, but on the other pew on the left side. Unlike Conan, who made an effort to dress decently, Isaiah was still wearing his armor inside his thick, in cloak. From the looks of it, he had nodded off with his arms folded under his chest and his head hanging.

    On the farthest, the second to thest of the pews was Dexter. His feet were on the pew, leaning against the armrest, facing the wall and not the altar. And then Morro was sitting just right behind Conan, tapping thetter''s shoulder, only to get ignored.

    Despite the pandemonium that broke out, the chapel was utterly silent, waiting for the bride.

    "She''ste." Abel let out a deep exhale, looking around the chapel adorned with flowers and gands on the aisle. Petals scattered on the carpet where she would walk on, arge crate on the side of the altar, and the Reverend sitting motionless on the wooden chair, afraid to make a sound.

    When Abel''s eyesnded on the Reverend, thetter flinched. Just now, after holding the empress and the emperor''s union, someone dragged him in here. He retaliated at first, but after seeing Morro''s razor teeth when thetter offered a friendly smile to not scare him, the Reverend was scared witness.

    Which brought him into this situation. Apparently, that mad man standing at the altar wanted to get married in this chaotic situation. Who was in their sane mind would want that, right? But the Reverend stayed still and didn''t n to escape, sensing these people were just as mad as Joaquin, the Emperor.

    "Reverend, why is my bridete?" asked Abel out of in curiosity, waiting for the priest to raise his head.

    The priest''s lips trembled, unable to answer that question. How the hell would he know!? He didn''t even know who the bride was! To his relief, Abel waved weakly and shook his head.<sub> </sub>

    "Never mind." Abel set his eyes back on the shut doors of the chapel. "With themotion, it''ll take her time."

    His eyes narrowed. "Should I fetch her?"

    "No!" Conan suddenly sobered up upon hearing Abel''s remarks. "You cannot definitely go!"

    "Let him be," Dexter chimed inzily. "She''s been bleeding so badбн I feel like killing someone."

    Dexter ground his teeth in anger, allowing just a fraction of his anger to seep from theyers in his initially calm eyes. However, he couldn''t move a muscle бк thanks to fucking Isaiah.

    "No!" Conan argued strongly. "If he goes out of here, he will be too annoyed at the noise!"

    Abel''s expression grew even duller. "I''ll fetch her."

    "Your Majesty, what will you do if Lady Aries arrives and you''re not here?" Morro raised a harmless question, stopping Abel from taking a step while Conan gasped at him. "Weren''t you nning to tie her in marriage as soon as possible before she changes her mind?"

    "бн"

    For a moment, there was nothing but silence in the chapel. Conan''s jaw fell ajar, almost pping at Morro for saving this empire from a disaster they managed to avoid until now. Aries wouldn''t forgive Abel or every one of them if thetter joined in and take out his anger on everyone instead of just one person.

    "I would know if she''s here or not," Abel answered before ncing at the Reverend. "Pluck your eyebrow while you wait for her arrival."

    "Uh бк" the Reverend gulped as he held his breath, but then began plucking his eyebrow. Surprisingly, it somehow helped him to soothe his nervousness.

    "Morro, find her andбн" Abel trailed off, and he slowly raised his head. The side of his lips curled up, while the rest of them had their eyes sharpened as well. Even Isaiah, who was sleeping soundlessly, slowly opened his eyes.

    "How fascinating," Abel crooned as he looked at the shut doors, watching them creak ever so slowly and loudly.

    His eyes grew gentle, just like his devious smirk, staring at the bloody figure standing at the entrance with a severed limb in her hand. Aries was covered with blood and her dress was dripping in red.

    "Here," she whispered, and Abel nodded.

    "Finally."

 Chapter 423 Was It Worth It?

    <strong>Happening at the same time...</strong>

    The sound of metals continuously echoed along with constant grunts and yells from Roman and Joaquin. Neither of them took a break or said another word, knowing saying anything was simply a waste of energy and time. Joaquin had already closed his mind and Roman was disgusted at every word that woulde out of the emperor''s mouth.

    Hence, they exchanged blows until they were panting for air. Sweats covered their skins and their scratches continuously increased, visible on their bodies. But that didn''t deter them from wielding their swords, swinging them to attack, or blocking an attack.

    After a long exchange of kicks, punches, and swords, both of them were equally exhausted. Until their fight slowly turned from a fierce battle of strength and skill to stamina.

    <strong>CLANG!</strong>

    "Ugh!" Joaquin ground his teeth. His swords trembled at the enormous weight pressing down against his des.

    Taking advantage of the emperor''s exhaustion, Roman raised a foot and kicked him in the gut. His action forced Joaquin several steps back, but before Joaquin could recover, Roman lurched forward while holding his sword up.

    All the emperor could do was hold his breath and harden his stomach when the erected sword''s tip glinted, reflecting the lighting from the shattered ss where Roman crashed previously.

    <strong>''No!''</strong> his brain yelled, gritting his teeth when Roman unhesitatingly swung his sword down, shing Joaquin across the chest.

    Time slowed down for Joaquin, but his senses felt slower to react. For a moment, Joaquin''s heart and breathing halted as his body went into shock. The continuous sounds of fighting from across the pce grounds slowly sounded distant in his ears.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    When time clocked back to its normal pace, all Joaquin heard was the sound of his knees hitting the floor, followed by the ng of his sword as his palmsnded on the floor. He coughed out blood, making it even more painful for the fresh wound across his chest.

    It took time for Joaquin to realize what had just happened as he gasped for air, finding himself on his hands and knees on the floor so pathetically. Despite the pain, the humiliation surging in his chest clouded his mind.

    How did this happen?

    Joaquin''s eyes dted when a pair of bloody boots stopped before him. His back stiffened at the deadly gaze on his back, and before he knew it, Roman grabbed him by the scruff of his neck and pulled it back to force him to face him.

    p Roman was also panting, calming his racing heart from all the adrenaline running through the ends of his nerves. He grabbed theb of his metal helm, taking it off and tossing it to the side. The nging noise of how it rolled sounded overly loud in their ears as silence slowly took over this very room where they fought.</anda>

    "Joaquin," called Roman when he recovered his voice, albeit rasped from all that yelling to raise his morale. "You had lost."

    Joaquin''s pupils went huge as his heart thudded at those three words the seventh prince spewed.

    Lost? Who? Him?<sub> </sub>

    "Hah..." came out a mockingugh, as if he just heard the greatest joke in his life.

    Unfazed, Roman kept hisposure. Joaquin would deny this world''s order because he was the person who never want to be wrong. The crown prince, now emperor, would stop at nothing to prove he was right all along; whether by force or by another method, Joaquin would force something just to prove he was right.

    And that alone was twisted at every angle.

    "I would''ve beheaded you myself and paraded it for everyone to see." Roman''s eyelids drooped as he raised his sword slightly, pulling his arm back to create distance from the tip of his sword to Joaquin''s stomach. "However... at the end of the day, you are still my brother and our royal family had done many unspeakable things. Die a slow and painful death... and reflect on your sins."

    Roman breathed out carefully, looking at Joaquin with pain in his eyes. "And ask yourself, brother. Ask yourself if everything you did is worth it."

    He stared at Joaquin for several seconds in silence before he thrust his sword forward, easily piercing through theyers of fabric into the emperor''s flesh. Joaquin''s mouth instantly fell open, his breathing suspending, as his brain registered the unspeakable pain buzzing in his head.

    The squishy sound continued as Roman pulled out his sword, only to thrust it back into Joaquin''s stomach. He stabbed him twice, missing thetter''s vital points so he wouldn''t die immediately. On the third stab, Roman carefully pulled out his sword and pushed his brother, so Joaquin wasying t on his back with blood oozing from his stomach.

    Roman slowly rose to his feet, gazing down at Joaquin''s nk eyes that were going into shock before they slowly clouded.

    "May you rest, brother," he muttered, lowering his eyes, bowing at him onest time. "Ismael wille for you, for sure... to bid his farewell."

    The seventh prince said nothing further, letting the silence reign over him. He stared at Joaquin for the longest time, then his gaze moved to his bleeding stomach. With all that wounds, only miracles could save the emperor. He could''ve beheaded him to lower the morale of the royal knights.

    However, no matter how much Joaquin deserves a cruel judgment, Roman couldn''t bring himself to do it. This wasn''t entirely because they were blood brothers, but the seventh prince was already tired of taking lives and the brutality he had lived.

    Sullying his hands over and over and over again throughout the years was tiring.

    He just wanted to rest and leave this burden to Ismael. After all, taking down Joaquin was Ismael''s task, but s, Roman came to him first.

    Roman didn''t want the recognition of bing a hero. There was nothing good about that title since it only meant he was the one who killed the most. A hero was only the sugarcoat of being a murderer.

    "I didn''t regret the life I lived..." he whispered, slowly turning on his heel. "... or what I want to believe." бк because one way or another, Roman wished he wasn''t born into the royalty and carried the name Imperial. If only he weren''t Roman Imperial, he wouldn''t be too ashamed to confess his heart to Violet. But then again, he couldn''t fully hold on to that regret since he wouldn''t meet Violet in the first ce if he weren''t Roman Imperial.

    Howplicated till the very end.

    When Roman was about to cross the threshold and leave the scene for Ismael to pick up what the seventh prince left, he halted by the door. His eyes slowly dted as his breath hitched at the voice behind him.

    "Was it worth it?"

 Chapter 424 The Story That Would Be Written In History

    "Was it worth it?"

    Roman slowly turned around while holding his breath when he heard Joaquin''s voice. However, as soon as he did, thetter was already standing a step behind him, and without a moment''s notice, Roman''s feet left the ground as a hand clutched his neck.

    Roman held on to Joaquin''s wrist on instinct, looking at the emperor in disbelief. Joaquin was strangling him with one hand and without exerting effort.

    Joaquin''s lips curled up evilly, wiping the blood dripping from the corner of his mouth with the back of his fist. "Yes, Rome. Isn''t this the strongest proof of that? I regret nothing."

    As soon as those words slipped past Joaquin''s lips, Roman barely grasp the situation as the grip around his neck tightened. Hisplexion turned red, watching two fangs grow from Joaquin, and the blood dripping from his stomach slowly stopped.

    <strong>''No!''</strong> Roman panicked, struggling from Joaquin''s grip. But unlike earlier, where they almost bore equal strength, Joaquin was now a hundred times stronger. Despite the deep stab wounds that went through his stomach to his back, he was able to lift a grown man with one hand without breaking a sweat.

    They werete; he thought. Joaquin had already morphed sessfully and became undead.

    Watching Roman''s realization appear in his eyes brought a smirk to Joaquin''s face. "Yes, Rome. Did you really think I will execute Ismael publicly and lure you out without a card in my sleeve?" he chuckled in ridicule, clicking his tongue continuously.

    "You had worked under me for years, Rome. Years. It was even more surprising how you, my vassal, hadn''t known how I n things." The sense of pride and arrogance reeked in Joaquin''s voice, tilting his head as he tightened his grip around Roman''s neck, enough for thetter to slowly suffocate and hear him until the very end. "You yed your roles perfectly, Rome. Just perfectly."

    "Victors writes the history. I knew what you all nned to write in yours, but do you want to hear how I''d write mine?" his smirk stretched even broader, eyelids drooping, but not enough to hide the contempt in them. "What history will tell toter generations is, upon the session of the 36th emperor, Joaquin, the evil third prince, the corrupted church, the traitorous seventh prince, and this rebellious group called Valiente conspired to overthrow the throne for their own greed."

    "They had killed ruthlessly, innocent and royalties, bringing unnecessary mayhem and bloodshed. But with the royal knights and the people of Maganti, they were able to uproot the evil. Because of this, the Maganti had stood even greater than before," he added with a satisfied smile. "Isn''t it a good story?"

    Joaquin chuckled, watching blood shoot up to Roman''s head. His smirk persisted and then an idea cross him just to ridicule Roman.

    "Don''t worry, Rome," he crooned, danger lurking within his eyes. "I will make sure Violet will follow you to hell... hopefully, her destination is hell, since our good Princess Violet is too kind for that ce. Wasn''t she an angel for you? Haha... but I know ways to make her go straight to hell."

    "After all... heavens don''t open their gates to impure souls, right? I''ll make sure to taint her until hell is the only ce she can go to." The side of his lips stretched even broader while Roman grunted and struggled under his grip. "I''m unlike you, Rome. I still want you to have a happy ending; it might not be in this lifetime, but at least in the afterlife."

    <strong>SNAP!</strong>

    "Rome!!!"<sub> </sub>

    Suddenly, Ismael, who just arrived in the corridor, saw Roman''s raised figure a palm length above the floor. His breath hitched. Although he couldn''t see Joaquin as he hadn''t crossed the threshold, Ismael''s mind already came up with the bigger picture of the scene he walked into.

    Without thinking twice, Ismael took a step forth but immediately stopped when the faint sound of bone snapping pierced the air. His eyes instantly went huge, watching Roman''s body copse lifelessly on the floor with a thud.

    "Rome..." Ismael''s heart sank, frozen on the spot, eyes on Roman''s unmoving figure. Seeing Roman fall was akin to taking another piece of the third prince''s heart.

    Ismael was once again a step behind and a secondte. Even though deep in his heart, he was certain he wouldn''t stand a chance against Joaquin in a duel, Ismael wanted to believe if he was there and fought with Roman, they had a higher chance of survival.

    But obviously, Roman found Joaquin first and now... he was gone.

    A tear rolled down Ismael''s cheek,ing from anger and disappointment. He slowly raised his head as a figure walked over Roman''s body. Ismael ground his teeth as he gripped his sword tightly until it trembled. He wasn''t even surprised at the fangs Joaquin was disying, nor was he fazed at the dark shroud exuding behind Joaquin''s.

    All Ismael felt was anger, dismay, and a strong will to take him down. This monster of an emperor was more than just out of control. He wasn''t just mad, but he deserved to be damned and burn in the fiery fire of hell forever.

    "Joaquin..." Ismael''s voice shook, grinding his teeth. "I will kill you."

    Joaquin smirked as he quickly sized Ismael from head to toe. "How cute." He let out a dryugh, not really interested in fighting him.

    With this surge of power traveling throughout his body and Joaquin''s heightened senses, he could sense that many had already morphed. Some ministers failed and died in the process, but that was alright. He could feel Javier''s life force and he had seeded.

    In his eyes, Ismael looked like a small fry. Killing Roman was even more exciting since the seventh prince never let go of his domineering aura until the end.

    "Ismael, have you seen my wife?" he asked out of in curiosity, since dragging her back was more important than fighting Ismael. His brow arched when Ismael let out a dryugh, eyes full of ridicule.

    "I can''t believe you will still look for her even when she vomited you multiple times," Ismael mocked in amusement. "Don''t you have pride, Joaquin? How can you squeeze yourself into her when it is clear no matter what you do, she will never ept you willingly?"

    "You are pathetic, Joaq --" Ismael''s breath hitched as his pupils wentrge. He didn''t even blink, but it was as though Joaquin leaped through space and was now standing to his side leisurely. Slowly, he turned his head to the side, only to see Joaquin smirking at him.

    Boogsh!

 Chapter 425 [Bonus Chapter]Thats What Killed Inez, Now You.

    "Ugh!"

    Ismael gasped for air as soon as his back crashed on the wall, almost smashing the entire wall from the force. Joaquin simply flung his arm up, but Ismael was thrown like a ball of paper. He coughed as he nted his palm on the floor, feeling his lungs constrict. He hadn''t recovered yet when he felt someone''s presence at his side.

    Looking up, he held his breath. Joaquin was squatting down in front of him, tilting his head, sizing him up in amusement.

    "What a bother." Joaquin sighed. "I nned to ask you politely to gather your forces and go back to the scaffold on your own to keep your pride, but you are damn annoying."

    Instead of fear, Ismael''s eyes burned in rage. "Unless you bow until your forehead is touching the ground, I will never die --" his remaining words were thrust back to his throat when Joaquin grabbed his jaw, covering his mouth and pinning the back of Ismael''s head against the wall with a bang.

    Ismael winced at the lightheadedness he felt, feeling the slight crack on his skull from the impact. For a moment, he felt dizzy, but because of the situation, he recovered quickly and red at Joaquin.

    "You will never, what?" Joaquin cocked his head nonchntly, blinking twice before chuckling. "Ismael, I don''t think you understand your disposition, but then again, you never knew your ce."

    "Forgive me forughing. Although Imend your tenacity, you are foolish until the very end, Ismael. You always speak about what is right and your idiotic idealism, only the naive and foolish people such as yourself utter," he continued, stressing his every word as if to drill his point in the third prince''s head. "It was fun ying with you all these years, but... I don''t think you''ve grown even the tiniest bit."

    "You''re still that young boy whose eyes are full of dreams..." he added with a mocking smirk. "But that''s who you are, isn''t it? A boy with a dream... dreams you will never attain in this life and the next."

    Ismael ground his teeth and let out a muffled roar, getting even more frustrated with the hand covering his mouth. Seeing this, Joaquin chuckled and happily let him go, showing he wasn''t scared of giving Ismael all the freedom in the world since he wouldn''t even graze him.

    "Speak," Joaquin urged, sporting a kind smile. "Let''s hear what you got to say."

    "Hah..." Ismael panted for air, ignoring the blood in his gums from Joaquin''s grip. "... do you think I had lost?"

    He chuckled, lips stretching from ear to ear, disying his bloody teeth. "No, Joaquin. You will never win against that boy because that boy you are belittling overcame the greatest challenge in this life. But you never бк you cannot."

    "The greatest challenge?" Joaquin arched a brow and frowned.

    "That is to witness how rotten this world is, and not allow it to consume me," Ismael breathed out weakly. "You didn''t win, Joaquin. Even at this very moment, I had never lost to you бк not even once."

    "Hah.... hahaha!" A wave of joyousughter slipped past Joaquin''s lips, hunching in as if he just heard the greatest joke of his life. But Ismael kept his firm visage.

    "You canugh all you want, Joaquin. But had it never crossed you why the grass remains standing even after the storm?" he scorned, shaking his head, a little disappointed at Joaquin''s twisted beliefs. "Because sometimes being soft is strong. You might have the upper hand now, but don''t becent, Your Majesty."<sub> </sub>

    "This world stretched far and wide. You might think you are above everyone else, only to realize you are just a big fish in a small pond," he continued with his voice carrying a tinge of ridicule. "This fight... you and I... isn''t about winning. The second this revolt broke out, I had already failed. Ridicule my beliefs all you want and mock me. I don''t care. Because at the end of the day, I had little to lose since you took it all, while you have many things to lose."

    Ismael huffed and smiled in satisfaction. His eyes softened as he lowered them, apologizing to everyone, especially to Aries, for failing her.

    ''I did my best...'' he told himself, leaving this bitter taste in his mouth. ''I did everything to protect our Maganti... but I''m simply too weak and pathetic.''

    He slowly raised his eyes to meet Joaquin''s unsmiling countenance. But Ismael neither smirked nor ridicule him further to press a nerve when he already pissed Joaquin one way or another.

    "This empire... those people... deserves better." He shook his head, his voice almost fading. "I feel sorry for them."

    "You should feel sorry for yourself, Ismael." Joaquin raised a fist ever so slowly. "For you will not stand in the gallows anymore."

    "Ugh!"

    Ismael gritted his teeth to lessen the pain of Joaquin''s punch, but thetter continuously pounded his fist against his face until his nose broke and his tooth came off.

    Joaquin didn''t stop, though.

    Unfazed by the sshing blood reaching his face as he beat Ismael with his fist over and over and over. Until the third prince would only move every time, Joaquin''s knuckles would make contact with his face.

    After long minutes of punching Ismael until no one could recognize him anymore, did Joaquin stop. He looked at the third prince''s mangled face covered with blood but kept his stony countenance.

    "I have many things to lose, indeed. However, I won''t lose them," he muttered coldly. "Until the very end, you never knew how to use that mouth of yours. I guess it''s in the blood of the Imperial, huh? That''s what killed Inez, and now you."

    Slowly, the side of his lips curled up, grabbing a portion of Ismael''s hair and dragging him up. Thetter didn''t resist or react, left unconscious or dead.

    "She will be happy if she sees you," Joaquin spat out, sniffing in the air to detect where Aries was currently hiding. He had his eyes closed, but when he reopened them, the side of his lips curled up.

    "Found you," he whispered before he sauntered off, still dragging Ismael by the hair to present him to his wife.

 Chapter 426 [Bonus Chapter]Were You Having An Affair?

    "Finally."

    Aries smiled subtly as she looked at the man standing at the altar. She narrowed her eyes to see him clearer, and her heart almost melted. Abel was gorgeous, like an angel sent from the heavens with that white suit with no spot of impurity. And yet, his bewitching beauty screamed thrilling danger.

    Her eyes glossed over the inside of the chapel, smiling at the very few guests inside. Yet, it was rather decorated well that gave off this slightly romantic air. If she knew nothing, she would wonder how the hell they manage to have time to decorate this ce with a generous amount of flowers under Joaquin''s nose.

    "Lady Aries~!" she snapped her eyes ever so weakly in Conan''s direction, chuckling upon seeing him wave excitedly.

    ''He looked happy... as if he was my parent,'' she thought, seeing that Conan pulled out a handkerchief to wipe the invisible tears from the corner of his eyes. Aries then caught Dexter''s gaze from the corner of her eyes, moving her gaze to him.

    "Dani," he breathed out, worry filling his eyes at the sight of her. But Aries smiled in return, nodding reassuringly without saying a word. When she moved her face once again, she noticed Isaiah looking back at her with his ssic stony countenance, then caught a man sitting behind Conan''s seat, before noticing the Reverend sitting near the altar.

    Her brows furrowed, narrowing her eyes to see better. ''Is he plucking his eyebrow?'' she wondered, tilting her head but didn''t dwell after ten seconds. She couldn''t really judge how people soothe their nervousness, right? Although it was weird, it wasn''t worth her limited energy.

    <o>,m And so, she set her eyes to the altar once again where Abel stood. Her lips curled up, and he smiled back.</o>

    "Did you wait that long?" she asked under her breath, barely reaching her ears. But Abel shook his head and mouthed, ''Four thousand years of existence... is worth it since you came.''

    Her eyes softened as warmth instantly formed in her chest that slowly transferred to her stiff body and chilled bones. She was just happy to reach here, despite the hurdles she overcame before reaching this ce. After all, Joaquin sent an entire unit to take her back, and she had no other choice but to fight her way out.

    But just like how he patiently waited, Aries could say the same. The hassle... was worth it to get to him. That very second, Aries already felt like a winner. Although the situation on the pce grounds continued to grow worse every passing minute, she was already a victor.

    ''Not yet...'' she told herself once more when her vision zoomed in and out and her head throbbed. Fighting was exhausting, and she was at her limit. Aries was not invincible. Thus, she inflicted injuries while fighting, albeit hidden under the thick blood covering her skin.

    She took a step forward to proceed to this wedding; she wanted from the bottom of her heart, but she halted. The softness in her eyes slowly dissipated and was reced by coldness. Aries slowly turned to her right, blinking ever so tenderly.

    "Where are you going?" Joaquin asked, cocking his head to the side. But Aries didn''t respond, as her eyes fell on the person near Joaquin''s foot.

    "Ismael," she called under her breath, but when Joaquin let his hair go, Ismaelnded lifelessly with a silent thud. "Ismael."

    "Aries." Joaquin''s voice turned colder and darker, seeing that her attention was on Ismael. For a moment, he didn''t know where he was the most annoyed; was it her not reacting as expected? Or that she was purposely giving him cold shoulders?

    "Ismael," she called once more, treating Joaquin as a ghost. "Are you alive?"<sub> </sub>

    "He is," Joaquin answered in a dull tone. "Barely."

    "Ismael, are you alive?" she asked once again, keeping her eyes on Ismael''s beaten figure. Although he was in such a state, Aries patiently waited for any sign of life. She only sighed in relief when his finger moved slightly.

    Seeing the relief in her eyes and that subtle smile that appeared on her face, Joaquin''s jaw tightened. He balled his hand into a fist, and without thinking twice, he stomped his feet towards her. Although he didn''t mean to move fast, Aries was still too slow to react and before she knew it, he has already gotten a hold of her wrist.

    "Were you having an affair with him?" he asked through his gritted teeth, making scenarios in his head, with Aries and Ismael fooling around behind him. He hadn''t forgotten the fact that all these months, Aries had been putting him to sleep to hallucinate about their nights of passion.

    Was Ismael sneaking into their room and they would make out right next to him? Just the sheer thought of it caused his blood to boil until his skin felt hot. Ismael had been shamelessly parading his inkling towards his wife, and it was not impossible if they really fooled around.

    After all, why would she smile like that if that wasn''t the case?

    "You''re... hurting me," she whispered, moving her wrist in a weak circr motion. But she was too tired and weak to even carry a sword now, so she could barely voice out her pain under her breath.

    Joaquin''s eyes, however, only zed in anger. He tightened his grip, almost crushing her bones.

    "Aries... were you fooling around with him while making me look like a fool every single night?" he questioned through his gritted teeth, tugging her wrist aggressively. She winced, but he ignored it, only seeing red. "Tell me! Were you having an affair?!"

    Aries''s shoulder instantly stiffened when his voice echoed like thunder, wincing at the pain that was crushing her wrist. When she red at him, she scoffed.

    "Yes," she replied without a second hesitation. "I am, indeed, having an affair and we had fucked beside you."

    "You!" His entire body shuddered in fury, only to see her tip her head to the entrance of the chapel.

    "But not with Ismael," she rified. "But with him."

    Joaquin slowly turned his head to the chapel, and his eyes instantly went huge as soon as he recognized the person standing at the altar.

    Baron Albe.

 Chapter 427 Walk Me Down The Aisle

    "But with him."

    Joaquin took a moment to absorb the situation as his eyes fell on the man at the altar. Abel was looking back at him with a right mixture of boredom and impatience. Although Abel''s countenance leaned more on the duller side.

    What was going on in here? Joaquin wondered. Did Aries say she was having an affair with this... baron? With this Baron Albe? He narrowed his eyes, but it wasn''t enough to conceal the fury building up within his chest.

    Days ago, Joaquin received a letter from this very man. It said Baron Albe would be busy with his wedding, and thus, he couldn''t personally deliver the arms. Although as a ''joke,'' бк or what Joaquin deemed it to be бк this Baron Albe even invited him to his wedding.

    His eyes zed with fury as realization dawned on him. So the wedding this Baron was talking about was his wedding with his wife? Anger surged through his chest as his entire body shuddered.

    "I will kill you," whispered Joaquin without blinking at Abel, who stood motionless at the altar.

    "Hey! You dimwit!" Joaquin''s brows creased, moving his eyes to the source of the voice. His gazended on the man with boyish charm standing on the first row of the pew, pointing a finger at him fearlessly. "Can''t you see this is a wedding?!"

    "I think he mistook it as his funeral," Morro mumbled, but because of the still atmosphere, his voice still reached everyone except Aries. Joaquin''s emotions and senses were all heightened, so a whisper would sound louder in his ears.

    "Don''t you all love efficiency?" Dexter sneered, balling his hands into a fist before ring daggers at Isaiah. "Let me go so I can bury him myself!"

    Isaiah simply cast Dexter a nonchnt look before shifting his attention to the two figures standing on the portico of the chapel. For some reason, the second Joaquin met Isaiah''s eyes, he instantly felt an unbelievable chill down his spine.

    ? Joaquin held his breath as his eyes scanned the chapel one more time. His Adam''s apple bobbed, sensing this inexplicable air reigning in the surroundings while their eyes were all on him. No. Their attention was on his hand, which was almost crushing her wrist.

    "Joaquin," Aries called, snapping Joaquin back from his trance. She waited for him to set his attention back to her before moving her other hand to his grip on her wrist, carefully freeing it. Much to his surprise, instead of retracting her hand, she held his hand and smiled.

    "Walk me down the aisle."

    As soon as those words slipped past her lips, his pupils dted as his anger resurfaced in his heart. His jaw tightened, and he gripped her hand tighter once again.

    "Are you making fun of me?" his voice shook, his anger peaking at boiling point. "You want me, your husband, to walk you down the aisle and hand you over to him? A mere Baron?"

    Joaquinughed in ridicule. Shock, anger, and humiliation condensed in one and settled within his chest. He was so angry he didn''t know what to do. Or rather, he knew exactly what he wanted to do, but he was so furious he didn''t know how he would kill Abel and everyone in here.

    However, all this anger would remain in his heart, unable to express it when Abel''s low and dangerous baritone voice echoed in the still air.

    "Joaquin."<sub> </sub>

    That second, Joaquin froze as hisplexion paled. Abel simply called his name, but his heart thudded and this strong force told him to lower his head. His knees trembled and all his muscles felt soft as tofu.

    Joaquin was scared... or rather, his body was terrified even before he could understand the reason. He released her hand, clutching his bicep to stop it from shaking. Never in his life had Joaquin fathomed he would ever fear something. He wasn''t even sure why he felt so scared and intimidated, but it was too strong that he couldn''t deny it.

    <strong>What was going on?</strong>

    "No more unnecessary interruptions," Abel added calmly, raising his chin and, at the same time, his eyelids drooping. "Let''s continue my wedding."

    Aries pursed her lips, staring at Joaquin. There was satisfaction in her heart seeing fear in his eyes for the first time, like a child in distress after misbehaving.

    "Don''t anger him." She raised a hand in front of him, watching him raise his nk eyes at her. "Walk me down the aisle."

    His face twisted in anger, grinding his teeth, snapping back from his fear. But s, when she red at Abel, Joaquin was once again stunned as he held his breath. Abel wasn''t even doing anything, but Joaquin''s gut feeling already told him not to offend him.

    "What..." he hung his head low and with great reluctance, he reached for her hand.

    The side of her lips curled up subtly, facing her groom. Without a word, the two walked slowly, following Aries''s pace as she was greatly injured. Meanwhile, Joaquin was questioning everything, unable toprehend why he was here, walking his wife to get her married to another man.

    Did this make sense? It definitely didn''t make any sense to him.

    It was ridiculous!

    But s, he was still doing it without a word of refute.

    They walked down the aisle hand in hand, slowly but steadily. While she kept her eyes on the love of her life, Joaquin''s eyes were on the floor. Only when a pair of boots was in front of him did Joaquin realize they reached the altar after minutes.

    Joaquin slowly raised his head and his heart instantly sank upon meeting a pair of crimson eyes looking down at him. Their stature didn''t have a tremendous gap, but before this man, he felt... small.

    Abelnguidly tilted his head to the side, studying Joaquin''s wide eyes. The side of his lips curled up as heid his hand, casting him a knowing look.

    "Your Majesty, it seemed you truly adored me foring as my best man," said Abel humorously. "Now, will you allow me to take her hand?"

 Chapter 428 I Do

    "Now, will you allow me to take her hand?"

    Joaquin held his breath as he gripped her hand tightly, only to loosen it after a second.

    "What sort of question is that?" he scorned, but unlike his defiant will, his body was moving on its own. Not that he was being controlled, but more like his body was reacting to save him from danger.

    And before he knew it, he guided Aries''s hand to Abel''s. As soon as he did, he noticed the devious glint in Abel''s eyes and how his lips stretched a bit wider.

    "As a token of appreciation, here''s my gift." Abel simply tapped Joaquin''s knuckles before taking Aries''s bloodstained hand. He didn''t mind Joaquin after that, as he pulled Aries by the waist until her body crashed against him.

    "My beautiful, lovely bride," he crooned seductively, looking at her with an equal mixture of affection and giddiness. He pinched her chin as she smiled back at him, leaning down and tilting his head to the side, about to im her lips. However, just before his lips could touch hers, Conan''s voice erupted.

    "Hey! Don''t skip the wedding!!" Conan harrumphed, pointing a finger at the two. "Exchange your marriage vows first before the honeymoon! We are not here to see you make out!"

    Abel frowned while Aries giggled. They both cast Conan a look, seeing him pant after only eximing his distress.

    "Sir Conan, I think you haven''t been taking care of your health. You are panting after merely spewing twenty words," Aries humored, wrapping her arms around Abel''s waist and leaning the side of her head against his chest.

    "We are following the Maganti tradition, my dearest Conan," Abel chimed in, caressing her back casually.

    "Who will want to see you fulfill your marital duties?! Everyone will be blind the second the straps of Lady Aries slid over her shoulders!"

    Abel frowned but didn''t deny that. He wanted everyone бк this world, actually бк to see how lucky he was to marry the love of his life. He would gloat about it, but at the same time, he wouldn''t stand it if everyone see her naked glory.

    How troublesome.

    Aries let out a shallow breath and blinked weakly. If not for the fact that Abel''s body was supporting her, she would''ve fainted from exhaustion or from her injuries. No one wanted to postpone this wedding. This was the only decision she truly had that came from the bottom of her heart, and something that didn''t have a lingering feeling of other reasons other than this pure intention of marrying the man she love.

    "Your clothes are dirty now," she whispered but didn''t move away from his body, and instead pulled his waist closer.

    He gazed down at her and smiled. "I don''t need themter. Let''s get married."

    Her eyes softened as she nodded weakly. "Mhm," came out a soft hum before her feet left the ground. Aries snapped her eyes for a bit, a little taken aback when he swiftly carried her into his arms. When she looked up at him, his lips stretched.

    "Like this." That was all he said, turning on his heel to face the altar with her in his arms.<sub> </sub>

    The Reverend hurriedly jogged towards the altar to marry these two. His right eyebrow had thinned after his continuous plucking, and his eyes were still shaking. His throat bobbed, still unable to process what he had just witnessed with the crown prince, now emperor, the empress, and this man.

    If anyone heard about this, it would be the biggest scandal that would reach even the farthest kingdom. Not just that, but also the humiliation of Joaquin after wearing a green hat. Yet, instead of losing his temper like usual, he even walked his wife and empress down the aisle to marry her lover!

    <strong>How scandalous!</strong>

    "You..."

    The Reverend''s back stiffened while Abel halted from approaching the priest when Joaquin''s shaking voice pierced the air. Slowly, Joaquin raised his head, grinding his teeth in anger, and balling his hand until they trembled.

    "That''s you..." His breath hitched, watching Abel nce over his shoulder.

    Abel''s way of expressing his token of appreciation was by returning the memories he stole from Joaquin. A memory Joaquin deemed as a nightmare of getting beaten to a pulp and watching his wife roll under the sheet with another man at the beginning of their marriage.

    It wasn''t a dream that should''ve been forgotten. It was something Joaquin should''ve remembered because if he did, he wouldn''te to reach this point.

    "I will get to you once I finish my wedding," Abel replied, eyes glinting dangerously that only the Reverend witnessed. "After all... that night wasn''t enough to quench my anger, nor what you are about to experience for the next century of your life."

    This time, the smirk on Abel''s face faded, but his hold on Aries remained gentle. "I had said it, but I will repeat it for you." He nced over his shoulder, and despite not meeting Joaquin''s eyes, thetter felt Abel''s gaze pierce his soul.

    "If not for her, you wouldn''t have this long grace period and thisnd had long been gone," he stressed what he had been telling even before Aries stepped foot in thisnd. "p yourself silently and watch carefully what a union between mutual consent is done."

    "You!" Joaquin smoldered in anger, but Abel ignored him as he resumed his steps until he was standing before the Reverend.

    <strong>p!</strong>

    Joaquin''s eyes dted when his own palmnded on his cheek. His breath hitched when it was followed by another p, this time with a much harder force. He continued to p himself until his mouth bled and his palm numbed. But s, he couldn''t stop himself. Instead, he continued to p himself over and over and over, and he didn''t have the will or the strength to stop himself, all the while staring at Abel''s back.

    Abel gazed down at her. Aries was clutching thepels of his suit, breathing heavily, but fighting to stay awake. Seeing how exhausted she was, he considered postponing this wedding for her to rest. However, Aries sensed his hesitation and gripped his chest tighter.

    "Let''s get married," she whispered with a deep exhale.

    He remained silent for a few seconds before facing the Reverend. "I do," he answered even before the start of the ceremony.

 Chapter 429 Vow

    "Make it quick, Reverend. I want this wedding and I will not marry anyone else aside from Aries Aime Heathcliffe. She is the only good thing that happened to me, and all I need is her," Abel continued solemnly, almost making the Reverend weep in fear as his tone was a stark contrast to his affectionate words. Abel sounded like he was threatening him!

    "She''s my world, and I won''t allow anything or anyone, even this world, you all breathe in harm her. Tell this to the God you worship, Reverend. This union... is not to ask His blessing but a warning to not mess with her, because I will mess with anyone who tries to take her away from me," he added, making everyone who heard his marriage vow wince; the Reverend wept internally, and Aries chuckled weakly.

    Abel took a long pause as he slowly gazed up at the golden cross behind the Reverend. His eyelids drooped, but his eyes bore sincerity.

    "Allow me to cherish her, to hold and protect her, to love her for as long as we live. Allow us to be happy in each other''s embrace, and live peacefully from this day forward... and I promise you, I''ll be good." His voice was low, but everyone felt his heart in those words. "And if the dayes, I have to bury her body... that will also be the day I''ll reside six feet under the surface of this world where I will lie beside her ash."

    There was a long silence that descended into the chapel after thest syble of his wedding vows slipped past his lips. Aries, who was paying close attention to his words alone, smiled subtly.

    Her heart felt warm, very warm, and she simply wanted to melt in his arms forever. Although hisst remarks had left a pang in her heart, she didn''t want to think about death or anything regarding separation.

    "With that being said, I will not allow death to part us. Therefore, you do not need to ask me if I approve of this marriage because my answer is obvious бк I want her, no one else, and more than anything in this world," he added solemnly since all that mattered in this union was Aries''s consent and willingness to marry someone like him.

    "Wu..." Conan wiped the corner of his eyes, a little moved at the unsightly yet beautiful wedding he was witnessing with Abel carrying his bloody bride while speaking from his heart. "I''m so happy for His Majesty..."

    Year after year, decades, centuries... Conan had been behind Abel and had always stared at thetter''s back. Although dealing with Abel was a piece of work and stressful, Conan understood Abel''s ckened heart.

    The Emperor of Haimirich just does whatever the hell he wanted, not because he wanted to do them or he was forced to. It was just that Abel wanted nothing to do with this world. Heck. Abel had been finding ways to die!

    The emptiness in his heart was unspeakable, and even though his people knew that, they would neverprehend it because they were never in Abel''s shoes. They could try to understand, but they would never fully assimte it since Abel himself couldn''t describe the emptiness he had carried for thousands and thousands of years.

    But now, Abel wanted something, and seeing that that desire, longing, and eptance were being reciprocated just as sincerely brought tears to Conan''s eyes. He was happy for Abel, for Aries, for the two of them.

    Isaiah, on the other hand, simply stared at Abel''s back. Unlike Conan, who was chewing his handkerchief to muffle his cries, he kept his straight countenance. Still, the luster in his eyes that had never been seen before dominated his eyes. He might not be just as expressive as Conan, but he wished for Abel and Aries''s marriage nothing but good. With a flick of his finger, Dexter, who was seething in anger moments ago, was free from the invisible shackles that kept him on his spot.

    Dexter, who regained his freedom, moved his head towards the altar. Abel was carrying Aries in his arms, standing firmly in his stature, and looking up as if he was talking to God himself.<sub> </sub>

    "Damn..." he whispered, massaging his stiff shoulders. Even though he wasn''t restrained anymore, he didn''t move an inch from his spot.

    Joaquin was pping himself while standing near the altar, and like a fool, no matter how many times his face would toss to the side, he would keep looking back to witness the wedding of his wife to another man. And yet, this wasn''t even called the beginning of Joaquin''s nightmare because Abel... wasn''t this kind.

    Ignoring Joaquin, Dexter set his eyes on Abel''s back. His eyes then softened slightly as a shallow breath slipped past his lips.

    ''I never wished him happiness because he doesn''t deserve it...'' he thought, catching Aries''s feet over Abel''s arms. ''... but it''s different if she''s involved. I want her to be happy and if he is the person who can give that to her... then I won''t get in the way.''

    "Sir Conan," Morro called in a whisper. "Will they release the doves now? Shall I morph now?"

    When Conan ignored him as he was weeping, Morro pursed his lips into a thin line. After a moment of pondering, Morro tapped Conan''s shoulder, only to receive a re in return.

    "Don''t talk to me! Can''t you see I''m crying, you insensitive bird!" Conan clicked his tongue in irritation and then continued weeping. Morro frowned as he observed Conan silently.

    "Sir Conan, you''re crying as if this is a funeral..." Morro mumbled, not sure if Conan heard him but ignored him or didn''t hear him at all. Either way, he patiently waited for his time to shine.

    Meanwhile, outside the chapel, a figure appeared beside Ismael''s body while thetter just regained his consciousness and was trying to stand up. Ismael grunted and furrowed his brows in confusion when a hand pulled his arm and ced it across his shoulder to help him stand, and then the other hand across his waist.

    Ismael turned his face to the person weakly. As soon as he saw Curtis''s face, the side of his lips curled up.

    "You''re..." he coughed, wincing at the pain it brought. "...te."

    "Late is better than absent." Curtis shrugged before dragging Ismael inside the chapel to attend the wedding of his dearest friend and also Ismael''s and the Maganti savior.

 Chapter 430 Mr. And Mrs.

    When Curtis and Ismael entered the vestibule of the chapel, they halted in the middle. Their eyes glossed over the pews, catching Conan weeping like a proud mother, Morro''s gleaming eyes with anticipation, Isaiah''s broad and distinct shoulders. Their eyes lingered longer on Joaquin, who was standing near the altar while pping himself.

    Ismael, who was weak and in such a pathetic state, narrowed his eyes to see clearer. His mangled lips were drawn into a thin line.

    Joaquin''s face was already beet red from anger and from all the pping. Blood was already dripping from his mouth, but he continued pping himself without a word ofint.

    "How embarrassing..." came out a murmur, staring at Joaquin''s pathetic figure and his continuous ps.

    Meanwhile, Curtis didn''t show any emotion while watching the tamed Joaquin. It was almost unbelievable to him who had experienced Joaquin''s madness and twisted ways. The man, who was pping himself while watching the wedding of his own wife to another, was something Curtis had never fathomed would ever happen to Joaquin.

    <o>,m That was Joaquin, who, at one point, terrified him with just the sheer thought of him. Curtis didn''t feel angry, nor did he feel sympathetic towards Joaquin. If anything, the pathetic sight of Joaquin right now washed away the lingering fear Curtis had for him.</o>

    When the two felt someone''s gaze, they shifted their attention to their left. There Dexter was staring at them with a dead expression.

    Curtis and Ismael tilted their head down slightly before Curtis dragged Ismael to the pew opposite Dexter. Once seated, Ismael let out a hissed, cing his palm across his abdomen.

    "Damn. I broke my ribs," the third prince hissed, wincing as he fixed his position since Curtis wouldn''t tend to him.

    "Are you sure you should be here?" Curtis asked, with an arched brow. "You should get yourself treated."

    "Who will help me? You?" Ismael, despite his mangled face, swollen eyes, and a lost side tooth, still returned sarcastically. He shook his head mildly, wincing as he peeled his eyes away from Curtis to the figures at the altar.

    "I can manage. This wedding is important to her..." he was panting, his chest heaving in and out heavily. "I want to at least be there as her guest... since almost everyone here was the groom''s people."

    Curtis remained silent while observing Ismael. His lips curled up subtly before rocking his head, setting his attention back to the altar.

    "Do you, Aries Aime Healthcliffe, take Abel Grimsbanne as yourwfully and spiritually wedded husband..." the Reverend continued in a shaking voice, hastening the ceremony at the request of the groom. While he was spewing the ceremonial vows, Aries looked up at Abel.

    When Abel gazed down at her, she smiled.

    "You used your name?" she asked under her breath, pleased at the name he told the Reverend.<sub> </sub>

    "Are you happy?" he returned, ignoring the Reverend, who could hear their conversation but chose to continue as if he wasn''t getting distracted.

    "Mhm," she hummed a soft tune. "Very."

    The two of them stared at each other lovingly while the Reverend was speaking in the background. Once the Reverend stopped for her ''I do,'' Aries remained quiet.

    "To speak the vows of love, to be by your side in good times and bad, and to do the little things that make you happy is the easiest promise I ever did, Abel. I had many things to thank you for, but there''s one I want to thank you the most." Aries raised her hand weakly, cupping his cheek and smiling when he leaned his face closer. "Thank you... for existing. I promise that each of my kisses will be filled with even more love than thest. Allow me to cherish you, love, and adore you, and devote my heart to you."

    "I am yours, forever. You can have it all." Tears shone in her heart as the happiness swelling up in her chest was far too overwhelming. She couldn''t help but tear up. "Death will not part us, for I know for sure our souls are made for each other."

    "I love you, Abel, and I want to spend my life with you. So yes, I do... want to be Abel Grimsbanne''s wife in the eyes of God, in the eyes of thew, in the eyes of this world, and even in the eyes of hell." Her lips curled up ever so tenderly, seeing how his eyes glistened with tears. Although it wasn''t enough to make him tear up, his eyes still grew watery and slightly red.

    The Reverend darted his eyes between the two. It wasn''t the best sight to behold, and it was definitely a sight that he has never seen in all the weddings he had facilitated. However, despite the intimidation that had been overtaking him, hearing their vows and the air between them as if they had their own world, the Reverend felt slightly moved.

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips as he cleared his throat. Instead of reading them the usual blessings, he looked at them solemnly.

    "The sacredness of marriage bridges two shores, binding two individuals together as an unbroken path on which both vow never to deviate, never to falter, and to always be with each other''s side." The Reverend smiled genuinely as Abel and Aries set their eyes back to him. "From today onwards, you will be one in mind, soul, body, and heart. May you remember to treasure your vows and stick together through all life''s challenges."

    He nodded at the two of them encouragingly and smiled. "Be good to each other," hemented, expressing his heart, as this was the hardest and strangest wedding he facilitated, but also the easiest he would ever proim.

    "I now pronounced you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride."

    Everyone in the chapel smiled, watching Abel walk leisurely in the same spot as he faced them. His lips turned up triumphantly and proudly, making Conan p loudly. Aries nced at Conan and then her eyes softened when she gloss over the pews. Her eyes lingered on Curtis, seeing him nod at her approvingly, to which she returned with a slight nod.

    "I love you." She looked up at Abel and her lips stretched slightly broader.

    "I love you more," she replied under her breath, closing her eyes to wee his lips. As soon as their lips touched tenderly, they both smile against each other''s lips.

    And with that kiss that sealed their marriage, they were now Mister and Missus Grimsbanne.

 Chapter 431 Brother-In-Law

    When Abel drew his back, his lips were stretched from ear to ear. He watched her eyshes flutter open and look at him straight in the eye with the same affection within them.

    "My wife," he whispered with a tinge of giddiness, a little overwhelmed to call her his.

    "Mhm?" Her subtle smile remained, her vision blurry as dark spots appeared in the corner of her eyes.

    "Abel..." she whispered. "... sorry, my husband."

    His eyelids drooped, nodding slightly with a smile. Herplexion turned paler with every passing second and despite the blood covering half of her face, her thick sweats were visible underneath. Aries gripped thepels of his suits tightly before her eyes slowly shut closed.

    When her grip on his clothes loosened, her hand slowly copsed on her body. The side of her head resting against his chest passed out.

    Aries''s injuries were grave, and she had lost a generous amount of blood. But she chose to proceed with their wedding and fought to keep her consciousness until the end. More than the worry in his heart, her determination and will touched his heart.

    "Thank you," he whispered, lifting her up and nting a kiss on her forehead. "You''ve fought well, darling. I''ll help them for you."

    Abel slowly raised his eyes, scanning the chapel. His eyes stopped on Joaquin, still pping himself with gritted teeth.

    "Stop now," he ordered calmly, and like an obedient dog, Joaquin stopped.

    Thetter froze. His hand hovered inches from his swollen cheek, eyes up at Abel. The anger in his heart continuously increased, but before that man... his body felt like it wasn''t his. Or rather, his control over himself was nothingpared to the fear under Abel''s gaze.

    "What... did you do to me?" Joaquin breathed out without thinking twice, still in denial at what he had already known. The new blood in him granted him immense power and speed and heightened all his senses. That was why his body couldn''t help but react to every word Abel would spit out.

    "Tch!" Conan snapped his tongue in irritation. He had almost forgotten about Joaquin, but now that he was reminded of his presence, he couldn''t help but frown in dismay.

    "I did... nothing." Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so slowly, holding Joaquin''s gaze with calmness in his eyes. "You ask yourself, Your Highness. What did you do to yourself?"

    Joaquin''s breath hitched as his body shuddered in both fear and fury.

    "Do you feel humiliated?" Abel continued out of in curiosity. "Defeated? But why? Bing a monster had been your goal, and now you had achieved it, you should''ve been prepared for the new realm you entered."

    "Bastard," Conan spat out in dismay, ring daggers at Joaquin. Although Dexter and Isaiah remained silent, they understood the reason Conan was miffed regarding this. And that reason was a fair one.

    Abel cocked his head to the side while waiting for Joaquin''s response, which didn''te. Not that he was expecting one, knowing Joaquin was too proud and still in denial of what his blood already knew.

    "Do you know what is amusing about humans the most for us?" he inquired calmly, catching Dexter stand from his spot, and walking in his direction. "Humans fear me for apletely different reason, and that is for being different."

    A glint flickered across his eyes as the side of his lips curled up. "But my kind fear me because they knew exactly what I can do."<sub> </sub>

    This time, Joaquin held his breath as his heart sank. He thought it was already strange to feel so intimidated to the point he was shivering in Abel''s presence. However, the air Abel exuded was just the natural air surrounding him. But now that he was pulling an aura to Joaquin, the sliver of hope Joaquin was holding on to slip out of his grip.

    "I..." his lips quivered, his voice was stuck in his throat for a moment. "... was wrong."

    Joaquin hung his head low, smoldering in humiliation but unable to vent it out. He couldn''t do it, he thought. No matter how angry and humiliated he was, he could only grit his teeth. The power between them was just too vast, and he was certain Abel could crush him even without lifting a finger.

    ''This isn''t... this shouldn''t be... what is happening...'' his inner voice shook along with his sinking heart.

    <strong>How did things turn out like this? </strong>

    Joaquin was certain after morphing into a vampire, he would simply need a few days бк weeks at max бк to adjust. He was aware it would be difficult, but he was confident climbing the top and subduing the rest of the vampires in this world was something he was born with.

    But all that shattered with a single word from Abel.

    It wasn''t like Abel changed his tone. But unlike before when Joaquin knew him as a mere Baron associated with the ck market, he could now feel the difference.

    Suddenly, Ismael''s words previously regarding being a big fish in a small pond crossed his mind. Joaquin froze for a moment, wide-eyed. He then slowly turned his head in Ismael''s direction, balling his hands into a tight fist, seeing Ismael looking back at him in that pathetic state he was in.

    Did the third prince say that knowing this would happen? That must be the case.

    "You..." Clutching his fist much tighter, Joaquin felt like ripping Ismael into tiny pieces. But even before he could leap or take a step, a loud p pierced his ears. He shifted his attention to the source of the noise, only to see Morro drop a crate near Abel''s vantage point.

    Dexter had already reached Abel, and thetter simply cast him a look before passing his bride to him.

    "She''s my wife," Abel stressed as if Dexter wasn''t here the whole time. Thetter nearly rolled his eyes, but his dead expression hindered him from doing so.

    "You don''t need to rub that in my face." Dexter clicked his tongue, carrying Aries in his arms.

    Abel shed him a bright smile. "Brother-inw."

    "Shut up..." Dexter''s voice shook as his pupils constricted, making Abel chuckle happily.

    "It''s always fun teasing you, Marques." Abel waved before facing Joaquin, still carrying that joyful smile. "But now that I think about it, my brother-inw is quite amazing because even though he carried my blood, he isn''t as pathetic as you, son."

    His lips stretched from ear to ear, while Joaquin''s eyes dted even more. Abel''s wording was vague, but Joaquin knew exactly what that meant. Or rather, his bloodprehended that for him.

    The vampire''s blood running in Joaquin''s was... Abel''s.

 Chapter 432 Big Fish In A Small Pond, Now Small Fish In The Oceon.

    With the realization that the person who turned him was Abel, another wave of bitter chill ran up Joaquin''s spine. All Joaquin could do was stare at Abel nkly while his head buzzed.

    Now that Joaquin thought about it, Javier was at his wits'' end regarding his research. Every subject Javier turned into a vampire would either turn into a mindless monster or have a short lifespan. But when Abel let himself know, things had gone smoothly for Joaquin; from arms to opium to his research.

    Joaquin held his breath as more and more realization struck him like thunder.

    "No..." he took a step back whilst shaking his head. "... no. This is not happening."

    Abel snorted, ncing at where Dexter was taking his wife. He kept quiet until they left the chapel with the Reverend to find her a room to rest. When he was certain the noises they would make here wouldn''t disturb Aries''s rest, Abel slowly set his eyes back to Joaquin.

    The second their eyes met, the devious smirk stered on Abel disappeared and it was reced with a stoic one.

    "I had been waiting for this day, Your Majesty," said Abel under his breath and crooked a finger at Joaquin. "Ever since that time from the Reverie бк the gathering of monarchs бк I had always thought of ways how to torment you."

    His pupils dte as the killing intent hiding beneath the multipleyers in his crimson eyes slowly emerged. "I had many things to tell and ask you, and the first of them is how dare you hurt my wife?"

    Perhaps it was the immense fear that forced Joaquin to take a step back instead ofing closer. The rm bells in his head kept ringing, signaling him to run as far away as possible.

    "Get away..." Joaquin mumbled, taking another careful step back. He looked around for help on instinct, but what he saw were pairs of cold eyes from the people present. No one would help him.

    "Get away..." he repeated with a shaking voice, setting his eyes back to Abel. "No... this is not how I will fall."

    "How cute," Abel hummed and chuckled with his lips closed. "Joaquin, my little vampire, don''t be afraid. I won''t kill you."

    His eyes drooped until they were partially closed. "I''ll just hurt you... really bad."

    Joaquin''s body froze once more, mouth falling open. He shook his head in panic, denying Abel''s request toe. However, when Abel frowned, his heart dropped to his stomach. Being killed right now sounded more enticing than being hurt because deep in Joaquin''s heart, he could only think of the worse.

    "Impressive." Abel rocked his head in satisfaction, seeing Joaquin not moving an inch from his spot.

    "This bastard..." Conan, who was irate at Joaquin''s defiance, stomped his feet in Joaquin''s direction. No one stopped him. The second Joaquin was within his reach, Conan sprawled his arms towards thetter and grabbed him by the scruff of his neck.

    Conan leaned his face over until it was a palm length away from Joaquin''s. His eyes were wide, burning with contempt and agitation.

    "Didn''t you want to be one of us?" his voice deepened, causing Joaquin''s knees to tremble. Unlike the fear he felt from Abel, Conan''s aura and voice were forcing him to kneel. But s, Conan''s grip on the back of his neck and on his hair stopped him from doing so.

    "Then, you should have realized by now who is the person you''re disrespecting," he continued through his gritted teeth, revealing his fangs ever so slowly. "The nerve of a lowly turned one such as yourself stands before purebloods. Hah... humans... so greedy as always, but so pathetic."<sub> </sub>

    Conan''s eyes zed even more, angrier than everyone present as if he held a deep grudge against Joaquin. But no one med him.

    As a pureblooded vampire, Conan was offended by how Joaquin deemed their race as a mere tool for his madness.

    "Do you know what happened to people like you who exploit us?" he sneered evilly. "Come, because you''ll find out soon why your father wants nothing to do with us."

    Everyone watched Conan drag Joaquin to Abel, pushing him to the front until he was standing in Abel''s vicinity. If no one knew Joaquin''s wicked nature, they would think they were simply ganging up and bullying him like how children do.

    But that wasn''t the case. Joaquin had iting.

    "No." Joaquin could only repeat that word while shaking his head, darting his shaking eyes between Conan and Abel.

    He was scared. He was scared. Those three words kept repeating in his head, giving him this immense will to run away from here. He would rather kill himself than know what these people were nning to do with him.

    As Joaquin take careful steps back, Abel stared at him with a bored expression.

    "How pathetic," mumbled Abel, a bit disappointed at how Joaquin reacted to fear. Perhaps it was because Joaquin never knew fear, so he didn''t know how to handle it.

    When Abel raised his hand, his eyebrow quirked. "Ah..." he rocked his head in understanding as if remembering something important.

    "It won''t be fun without an audience." His lips stretched slightly, whistling weakly, making Joaquin wonder what was that for. The answer came not long after when multiple figures appeared, one after another, until the chapel was crowded.

    Looking around, Joaquin''s eyes dted even more, recognizing the royal knight''s suit and even the ministers whom Javier sessfully turned into vampires.

    "Now, that''s better." Abel grinned evilly, pleased by the soldiers Joaquin gathered unconsciously for Abel to toy with. "Now, let''s begin with the much-awaited trial."

    Without a moment''s notice, Abel took a gigantic step and extended his arm. He grabbed Joaquin''s wrist, almost crushing thetter''s bones.

    "That''s for your rudeness to my wife today," Abel exined, pulling Joaquin''s wrist, only to swiftly settle a hand on the back of his head, and then mmed his face into the open crate full of broken porcin.

    "And that is for the recent wounds on her back," Abel seethed, lifting Joaquin''s head only to m it once more against the broken porcins that impaled into Joaquin''s face.

    "Ughh..!!!"

 Chapter 433 Redemption

    Minutes ago...

    "Reverend!" Climaco yelled, seeing that a royal knight came up from Modesto''s back. He leaped and blocked the attack without thinking twice, barely saving Modesto''s life in the nick of time.

    Grinding his teeth at the heavy metal pressing his sword down, Climaco screamed at the top of his lungs to force the reserve energy in him to shove the knight away. He panted when he sessfully created distance between them and the knight.

    "This is bad," Climaco mumbled in between his ragged breathing, looking around at the other knights surrounding them. The two of them stood with their back against each other, facing these monstrous royal knights. Both were exhausted from all that fighting, not to mention their fatigue and hunger from being locked up for days.

    Just moments ago, the Valiente Group and the knight temrs got the upper hand in subduing the royal knights. They sullied their hands if they must, since some knights were too loyal to the new emperor. However, just when they thought they got everything under control, these knights appeared out of nowhere and turned the tides for the worse.

    Not only these elite royal knights were strong, but they were also faster beyondprehension. The casualties in their forces grew aplenty, and now their morale was slowly declining. They weren''t even sure if Roman or Ismael had already reached Joaquin or what sort of situation they were now in.

    Everyone was just so busy fighting and surviving to be concerned about other things. All they could do was hope and trust that the third prince or the seventh prince met halfway to fight Joaquin.

    Although with the situation at hand, Climaco and Modesto were certain... Roman and Ismael''s fighting chance crashed in half.

    "Reverend," called Climaco under his breath without taking his eyes off of their enemies.

    "I''ll cover for you," Modesto breathed out, causing the knight''s brows to knit. "I had sinned and betrayed thisnd. Even if I am fighting for it now, it is not much to repent for everything I turned a blind eye to."

    He nced over his shoulder briefly and then set his piercing eyes on their enemies. "I will cover for you, so you... go and help the princes. They mustn''t fall." His tone grew solemn as his eyes darkened.

    "Even if we fail today, those two must live," Modesto added with conviction. "Go and search for them. Help them in any way you can... and if the situation is terrible, risk your life to save them. Thisnd... needs them alive."

    Climaco''s jaw tightened as it sounded like Modesto had epted the worst-case scenario. However, no matter how bitter those words were, he didn''t have a choice but to swallow this fact with the current situation.

    <strong>They had to retreat. </strong>

    "Reverend, even if the Gods cannot understand why you swayed from your divine oath..." his eyes showed resolve, breathing out through his mouth. "... but this pathetic knight does. My opinion might not be much and this sentiment might sound pretentious, but I''m certain those children the church shielded would be forever grateful."

    Modesto''s eyes softened as his lips curled up subtly. Not because he was moved by Climaco''s words, nor the thought of the children''s recognition. His heart warmed up only for the sole reason... he didn''t regret deviating from the virtuous path. He did what he thought was right and even if it was cowardly, he didn''t mind beingbeled as a coward if that meant those children got to enjoy the peace the adults couldn''t.

    "If possible... don''t die, Reverend." Climaco swallowed a mouthful of saliva before his heart rate calmed down.

    Both of them remained silent for a moment, standing cautiously before the knights surrounding him. When Modesto yelled, "now!" Climaco leaped away. A knight tried to stop him, but with this great will to survive, Climaco was able to send him flying.<sub> </sub>

    Another knight appeared behind him, but this time, Modesto blocked the attack.

    "Don''t look back!" shouted Modesto to Climaco, grinding his teeth, and was able to kick the knight away using brute force. "Go!"

    Climaco nced back and nodded, taking gigantic steps away with gritted teeth. He fought some knights ahead, aiming only for their vital points. He inflicted wounds on the way, but they weren''t enough to stop him from aiding the seventh or third prince.

    Climaco didn''t look back even once, despite the sounds of metals erupting in the air. He knew once he did, his feet would turn and help Modesto until the end.

    ''I''m sorry...'' hemented internally, steeling his heart. To help him force his way through the knights, Climaco yelled and swung his sword like a madman.

    Deep in the knight''s heart, he didn''t change. He was like Modesto, who turned a blind eye to the injustices and feigned mute and deaf. For what? For the sake of survival. But even if this wasn''t about survival anymore бк at least not the primary point бк Climaco was disappointed at himself... and even angrier at Joaquin.

    With a heavy heart, Climaco continued to flee the scene while Modesto stopped them with everything he had got. When Climaco managed to enter the inner pce, Modesto was already in thest straw.

    Surrounded by monstrous royal knights, he panted for air, narrowing his eyes to see better from his blurring vision.

    "I hope... he will not bete," he mumbled, smirking at the countless enemies before him. "God... I know I had sinned and there''s no excuse for that. However... may you protect the innocent and grant them mercy."

    His vision shook, his body reaching its limit. Just as he took a step, Modesto swayed, and before he knew it, his knees crashed to the ground.

    He hung his head low, smiling bitterly, knowing this was the end for him. "At least..." he whispered, hearing the footsteps of the approaching enemy.

    "I won''t die pathetically." Modesto closed his eyes, waiting for someone''s de toe into contact with his nape.

    "Reverend!!!"

    Suddenly, a voice erupted in the already loud air, causing Modesto to open his eyes. The second the Reverend raised his head, an arrow pierced through the royal knight''s visor, causing it to stumble back. Modesto furrowed his brows as he looked around, catching a group of men panting for air.

    "Your Highness..." he called, recognizing the person leading the men.

    The fourth prince, Enrique Imperial. Ismael''s trusted vassal.

 Chapter 434 The War Was Over

    Modesto smiled. Although he didn''t have foolish thoughts that they might save him, the prince''s action moved him.

    "Thank you foring to my rescue," he whispered. "But... the third prince needs more reinforce..."

    He couldn''t finish his sentence as the remaining strength that kept him still slipped away from his grip. His bodynded on the ground with a thud, letting dust ascend around him.

    Enrique huffed, keeping his gaze on the old man lying on the ground. Aside from the visible wounds and bruises on Modesto, his blood and others tainted his armor. However, he didn''t rush to Modesto but sized up the royal knights facing his entourage.

    "You..." came out a shaking voice, gripping his sword until his hand turned white. "... have betrayed thend and people you promised to protect. I had no sympathy for the likes of you, no matter what reason you had."

    His eyes darkened and the air between the two forces thickened. When a gust of wind blew past them, carrying the sound of death and lives from those who were still fighting and dying.

    "Seize them!!" Enrique''s voice thundered and followed by their cries; figures sprinting past him.

    In a snap of a finger, another fight broke out until the sound of metals turned deafening. The gueris and Enrique''s strongest weapon were their will to fight until the very end. Despite the overwhelming gap in their strengths, they didn''t falter and kept fighting with everything they could.

    However, fighting spirit alone wasn''t enough to save them in a war. This was no fairytale; every single one of them had families and friends they wanted to go home to or at least share booze with. But all the reasoning wasn''t enough to make peace and stop this.

    Only if the other forces raised their white g or if every single one of them died would this war end. There was no other way.

    "Ughh!!!" Enrique was sent flying, crashing on the concrete ground painfully. When he coughed, blood went along with it. But that didn''t stop him from rising back to his feet with eyes burning with determination.

    Even though they barely scratched their enemies with these royal knights'' tremendous strength, they didn''t allow their spirits to die. Another howl escaped the fourth prince''s throat, bending his knees and lurching forward to the enemy who sent him flying.

    As the battle raged on, the oue slowly got clearer and clearer. Every time they down a monstrous royal knight, tens of them would drop to the ground. Some died in one swoop, while others barely dodge death, albeit inflicting grave injuries incapacitating them to fight.

    Seeing how helpless they were despite giving their all, Enrique ground his teeth and continued fighting. Since he was one of the best fighters in this group, hemanded others to drag their subordinates away. However, this order was easier said than done.

    The royal knights didn''t show the tiniest respect to them, as they would step on the dead rebels and even their own subordinates whilst fighting. When the fierce battle came to the boiling point and the Valiente continuously decreased in numbers, Enrique subconsciously epted their fate.

    ''This is probably... as far as I can go...'' the fourth prince held his breath, watching the royal knight before him swing his sword up. Standing in front of death''s door, Enrique, although he took part in this revolt with all his heart, couldn''t help but feel sorry for his wife and children.

    He slowly closed his eyes, waiting for the quick pain before death. But the pain didn''te through. He slowly opened his eyes and furrowed his brows, staring at the royal knight standing in the same stance while holding the sword up, motionless.

    "What...?" he whispered, looking around on instinct. Just like him, many of them were at the mercy of the royal knights. Confusion filled their eyes, staring at the royal knights, who suddenly turned into mannequins.

    A momentter, all the standing royal knights took a step back, tossing their swords on the ground. Without a word, they leaped away, leaving their enemies with an enormous question mark over their heads.

    "What... just happened?" Enrique stumbled back, feeling his bones and muscles softening from the fatigue and fear of death.

    No one answered his question because everyone had the same question in their heads. What had just happened?<sub> </sub>

    With that unanswered question in everyone''s head, all they could see was the royal knights traveling at an unbelievable speed in a certain direction.

    It took a moment before Enrique snapped out of his trance. "Reverend!" he yelled and hastily pushed himself from his spot, hearing Modesto cough.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>[ Inside the inner pce ]</strong>

    "What''s going on?" Climaco murmured as he watched the royal knight he was just fighting to flee without a word. He also noticed the other royal knights around retreating. Just like everyone else, they were just as confused and baffled.

    However, Climaco took this as an opportunity to proceed with his n. He wasted too much time in here, and he still hadn''t seen Roman and Ismael''s shadows.

    With that thought in mind, Climaco hurriedly went straight to ces where Joaquin could be ''hiding.''

    After many twists and turns, checking every area that Joaquin might use, Climaco nearly bumped into someone when he made a left turn. Thanks to his fast reflexes, he was able to stop on time.

    "What..." came out a careful voice, slowly raising his head only for his eyes to dte. "Your Highness?"

    His brows creased as he narrowed his eyes to make sure the person looking down on him was Roman. After all, the seventh prince he knew had this huge scar across his eyes and a new deep one on his cheek. But this man had none. If anything, he looked... way younger than the usually disgruntled appearance Roman had.

    If not for the color of his hair and the signature silver eyes of the royal Imperial family, Climaco would surely mistake him for someone else!

    "They''ve gathered in the chapel." Climaco''s back stiffened when Roman''s familiar voice came out of the person''s mouth. "Her Royal Highness is also there. If you''re looking for her, she''s there."

    "Huh?"

    Roman didn''t speak further, walking past Climaco without a word. His steps didn''t falter even when Climaco called him.

    "Have you seen the third prince?" asked Climaco in a hurry, staring at Roman''s back while thetter walked leisurely.

    "No, but he''s in the chapel," Roman answered in a dawdle. "I''m going there."

    Confused at the rxed demeanor of the seventh prince, Climaco shook his head. Since he was already with the seventh prince, who was on his way to the chapel where Ismael was, he hurriedly followed him.

    Little did Climaco know, the scene he would walk into was something he had never fathomed to witness in his life. And only then did he realize the reason Roman was calm.

    The war... was over sooner than anyone expected.

 Chapter 435 Dogshow

    Climaco stood motionless at the chapel''s entrance, watching a man m a person''s head inside a crate repeatedly. Every single monstrous knight under the crown prince, now Emperor, stood on the side doing nothing but watch.

    "What...?" he breathed out, confusion apparent in his eyes. When he caught a familiar figure on the side of his eyes, Climaco turned, catching Ismael wincing about his injuries.

    "Your Highness!" he rushed to the pew where Ismael was sitting, standing on the end of the pew. His heart thudded seeing the injuries the third prince inflicted. Ismael was barely recognizable бк Climaco wouldn''t recognize him if not for his voice.

    "Ah, you''re alive бк damn, this hurt!" Ismael winced, pressing his side. At this point, Ismael could barely sit while leaning against the pew''s armrest.

    Climaco heaved a deep sigh, relieved that Ismael and Roman made it alive. But why were they in this chapel and everyone?

    Climaco slowly straightened his back and nced over his shoulder. There were royal knights standing behind him, but no one was attacking him. Their attention wasn''t on him, but on those two in front of the altar.

    "What the hell...?" he muttered in confusion, setting his eyes on the altar again. His eyes narrowed, scrutinizing the person donning a white suit as if he was a groom. Abel was smashing a person''s face inside the crate full of shards with ack of enthusiasm as if he was getting bored.

    "That person..." Climaco breathed out, trying to recognize the <strong>''victim''</strong>.

    "Joaquin." Ismael nced at the knight unhurriedly, seeing Climaco look down at him with wide eyes. He rocked his head, peeling his eyes away from him to the person ahead. "That''s Joaquin and that other one is Lady Aries''s husband."

    "Hu -- husband?"

    "They just got married." The third prince winced once again, feeling his broken rib poke into his lungs. "He''s the emperor of Haimirich."

    "Emperor of..." Climaco''s pupils dted as he set his eyes back to where Abel was. "Why is he?"

    "He''s been here all along, stalking his lover like a creep," exined Ismael to the knight, finding afortable spot to reduce the pain he was enduring. "All he wants is Joaquin. As long as we hand over Joaquin, they won''t touch Maganti."

    The lines between Climaco''s forehead deepened at the thought while holding his breath, focusing on the horror everyone was watching.

    "Now that I think about it, why are these knights not doing anything?" he wondered, ncing at the royal knights who had been fighting fiercely moments ago. "Their emperor is being tortured and humiliated, yet they''re just watching?"

    Ismael remained silent as he cast the knights around a cursory nce. "He''s not their emperor anymore." His eyes glinted, taking habitual pauses to not hurt his already constricting lungs.

    "The moment they... Joaquin included sold their soul to the devil, their lives aren''t theirs anymore. That was the trade, after all. The devil let them have a taste of sess to fulfill his end of the bargain. Joaquin wanted wings, and thus, he had it, flying too high, not knowing those wings will get burned the closer he was to the sun." The third prince breathed out, his jaw tightening at the dull expression on Abel while literally stomping on Joaquin''s head while it was still inside the crate.

    And to think this torture was solely for the wounds on Aries''s back days ago. The sense of dread settling in Ismael''s heart was unspeakable.

    "And without those wings, his fall was beyond devastating," he added under his breath, looking away from the scene before him.

    Seeing his action, Curtis, who had been silent, pressed his lips into a thin line.<sub> </sub>

    "Why are you not watching?" asked Curtis to the third prince out of in curiosity. "Feeling sorry now?"

    "He''s my brother." Ismael''s voice and tone were low and airy. "He had this all along, but at the end of the day, he''s still my brother. I don''t feel sorry for him, but I''m also not the type to indulge and find enjoyment in his downfall."

    Ismael lowered his soft eyes, blinking weakly. "It''s not worth the energy and time. The Empire is still in chaos and I''d rather use my remaining energy to bring peace and order."

    Curtis studied Ismael''s side profile and let out a shallow breath. The third prince might not be lying, but Curtis was certain there was a part of Ismael who just couldn''t look at Joaquin''s current situation. Anyone would feel ufortable watching Abel, after all.

    But he couldn''t judge the third prince. After all, Ismael was more softhearted than one could fathom. At least now, he was still softhearted but less dumb as to waste his remaining energy on Joaquin.

    "Ah, right!" Abel''s voice pierced the air that had been filled with Joaquin''s grunts, along with the sound of shattering porcin. "Curtis, my buddy, look!"

    Curtis furrowed his brows and set them to where Abel was. Thetter grinned deviously as the dullness in his eyes slowly disappeared.

    Abel looked at Joaquin''s bleeding face. While thetter was recovering, Abel pluck out the pieces that were stuck on Joaquin''s face.

    "Ugh..." Joaquin panted for air, unable to even p Abel''s hand as he took out the shattered sses that impaled on his face. As Abel did so, the wounds on his face closed up on their own. Yet, the pain remained.

    When Abel took out the distracting pieces of tes from Joaquin''s face, he smiled politely. He cast Curtis another look, like a kid wanting to show off.

    "Hand." Abelid his palm open, eyes filled with anticipation.

    Joaquin darted his eyes between Abel''s face and his palm. His heart sank to the pits of his stomach, shaking his head mildly. Despite the obvious reluctance, Abel waited patiently.

    "Hand," Abel repeated in the same light tone. "Come on. Be good. Hand."

    Joaquin ground his teeth and, with great reluctance, he ced his trembling hand on top of Abel''s palm.

    Pleased, Abel ruffled his hair gently with his other hand. "Good boy." His smile stretched wider, looking back at Curtis. "Want to see more tricks?"

    Joaquin''s shoulder shuddered as he moved his gaze to where Abel was looking at. The second he did, all he saw was Curtis looking back at him coldly from the pew.

    "Bark," whispered Curtis, which barely reached his ears, but for every single vampire in this chapel, it was enough to hear him loud and clear.

    Abel grinned and looked back at Joaquin. "You heard the boss. Bark. Let''s not disappoint my buddy."

 Chapter 436 Animal Abuse

    For men in this era, dying was not so bad. Standing bravely and facing death head-on was called honor. They would rather die honorably than live in shame.

    The sound of a man''s barking echoed in the still air in the chapel. If not for that barking, it would be pin-drop silent. All eyes were on Joaquin, kneeling in the same spot, barking through his gritted teeth.

    "I told you, I''m amazing," Abel gloated, leaning against the aisle a row before Curtis. His arms were folded under his chest, letting Joaquin bark while Abel was having a break from the warm-up torture.

    "I have a knack for everything. See? I tamed him in a snap of a finger," he continued, making Climaco and Ismael cringe secretly. "Whatever tricks you want, he''ll do it. Want to try?"

    Curtis, who kept a straight face, eyes on the barking Joaquin didn''t answer. He just watched Joaquin, who was punching the floor to stop himself from embarrassing himself but to no avail. No matter what Joaquin does, he would bark like a dog. Same with how he pped himself to the point he lost a tooth.

    Yet Curtis didn''t feel the slightest remorse. If Ismael didn''t want to indulge in Joaquin''s demise, Curtis was the opposite. He wanted to remember this scene forever. In that case, Curtis would only remember Joaquin this way, and not those horrible memories in the past.

    "y dead," whispered Joaquin, making Abel grin excitedly.

    Arrogant as he was, Abel snapped his finger and gestured a gun with his finger. "Bang!" he eximed, and that second, Joaquin yed dead. Pleased, Abel looked back at Curtis proudly. His grin broadened.

    "I''ll let you borrow him. Not now, though, but once my wife wakes up. I need to kill time while she''s resting because I get pissed whenever I look at her in such a state," he exined and nced at Joaquin. "I get sexually frustrated too. That is his fault, right?"

    Abel frowned as he thought about missing his wedding night because Aries was injured. "Right. That''s his fault." He retracted his back from the pew and sauntered towards Joaquin.

    Without a moment''s notice, Abel stomped on Joaquin''s neck enough to break thetter''s spine but not behead him. Abel released his frustration by kicking and stomping at Joaquin, who could only let out a whimper.

    "..."

    ''He''s... Her Royal Highness''s husband?'' Climaco gulped, squashing down the chill creeping into his heart. ''Isn''t this some kind of animal abuse now?''

    ''What a sick bastard.'' Ismael shook his head, studying Abel''s face, who was simply frowning while beating Joaquin. ''I don''t feel sorry for Joaquin, but... anyone will feel sorry for Satan before that man. He''s just... that scary.''

    Meanwhile, Curtis didn''t show the slightest emotion at the sight he was watching. He went through the same situation. But his role was the one being beaten while Joaquin kick him to vent his anger.

    No one dared make a sound or interrupted Abel. Their opinions and thoughts didn''t matter. Neither the knights, Abel''s people who were still there, nor Roman, who was standing by the entrance.

    "Wasn''t this... how it had always been?" Abel chuckled, stopping from beating Joaquin. His eyes glossed over at everyone standing and sitting inside the chapel. "While this guy... is doing something very bad, you lot will just stand there doing nothing."<sub> </sub>

    He nted his hands on his hips, raising his other hand tob his hair back. "Whenever I think about it, I am getting angry, really! If only one of youes up here and saves him, I will stop! Well бк maybe not. But the thing is if only one..." His eyes glinted as the smile lines on his face faded.

    "If only one of you had enough balls, my wife and my buddy... will not go through all that." His pair of crimson orbs glowed dangerously, getting angry the more his brain fed him with things from Aries''s and Curtis''s past.

    This had been one of the reasons he wanted her toe back and settle the score with them. Although it was also partly because he wanted to see if Aries, his world, was capable of forgiveness, it didn''t matter. Whether she chose forgiveness or destruction in thisnd didn''t matter to him, as long as she was happy. But Aries chose the former, and even though he was amused by her decision, he wasn''t the type to let things go.

    One way or another, Abel also needed to make peace with her past. Not because he wanted to forget them, but because he was angry in her stead.

    "Haha... how should I punish you all?" heughed dangerously, cracking his fingers one by one, looking at the royal knights around.

    Ismael held his breath at the strong sense of danger for everyone inside the chapel. ''This is bad,'' he thought. The man was getting angrier with every passing second the more he idled.

    "Let''s go." The third prince flinched when a towering figure came to his side, pushing Climaco slightly. "Everyone in this ce is not safe anymore."

    Ismael furrowed his brows, opening and closing his mouth like a fish. But all he could do was nod after seeing the seriousness in Morro''s eyes.

    With that being said, Morro didn''t bother asking Ismael and simply slipped his hand in thetter''s armpit. He lifted the third prince like a child, only to carry him on the shoulder. But before walking away, Morro cast Curtis a look.

    "You too," said Morro, while Curtis didn''t take his eyes off of Abel. "No one is safe when he''s angry. Lady Aries was brought to the emperor''s room to rest. You can apany her there."

    Morro didn''t wait for Curtis to move as he nced back at Climaco. "Follow me."

    "Uh..." Still baffled at what was going on, Climaco blinked twice. "... alright?"

    As Morro walked away with Ismael on his shoulder and Climaco following behind him, Ismael raised his head and winced. The second the third prince did, he saw Conan also sauntering off and that man with distinct shoulders. Even Abel''s people had no interest in staying inside, but Curtis stayed for a moment before standing from his spot.

    However, before they couldpletely exit, everyone heard Abel p.

    "My best friend,e!" Ismael moved his gaze to where Abel crooked a finger, only for his heart to stop beating for a second. He swallowed down a mouthful of air, seeing the disheveled person still wearing his bloodstained, bloody attire.

    "Father..." whispered the third prince, recognizing the mindless yet tamed monster entering the chapel. But before he could react, the doors of the chapel closed ever so slowly.

 Chapter 437 Time To Play A Game

    ? "My best friend,e!"

    Out of instinct, Joaquin raised his head weakly to see the person entering the scene. As soon as he did, his heart stopped momentarily. The emperor was growling like a dog, his eyes brooding on him.

    "No... arf! Arf! Arf! Arf!" Joaquin barked in defense, regaining his strength to crawl back. He shook his head the closer the emperor was, but then stopped when he felt Abel''s gaze on his back.

    "Why are you so scared, Joaquin?" Abel tilted his head to the side, a misced genuine wonder in his eyes. "You won''t die. I specifically made sure you won''t die so easily."

    "Arf!" Joaquin ground his teeth at Abel, still on his knees with his palms on the floor. "How dare you...!"

    Abel snorted, walking towards the previous emperor. He hooked his arms across the previous emperor''s shoulder as if they were close friends, standing before Joaquin.

    "Come on now. I didn''t cage you just like how you heartlessly cage my best buddy for years." He shot the mindless monster a look and grinned. "Do you hate him?"

    Grr...

    "How touching." Abel heaved a dramatic sigh and then faced Joaquin.

    "He said he doesn''t hate you, but only came here to shower you with the fatherly love you had sought. It seemed he truly cherished you, huh? Come, give your father a hug!" He tapped the previous emperor''s back lightly before retracting his arm. "Don''t kill him."

    Joaquin''s eyes dted as his jaw fell in horror, watching his father approach him with those bloody fangs.

    "No, no..." His fear shot up. No matter how many times he told himself to get up and fight, Joaquin was frozen on the spot. All he could see was his father, whom he had been looking down for years, was now looking down at him the same way he did. Although the emperor was tamed than when he was hungry, there was no sense of life in those bloodshot eyes.

    Time seemed to stop for Joaquin as his heart stopped beating briefly. His breath hitched and all the noises around were muted.

    ''No...'' Joaquin whispered helplessly, watching his father open his watery mouth.

    Abel smirked when Joaquin''s squeal erupted, echoing across every corner of the chapel. While the previous emperor ravage his own damned son, Abel raised his chin and scanned every single one of the royal knights. His people already left the chapel with Ismael, Climaco, and Curtis.

    "You stayed?" he quirked a brow, catching Roman leaning against the jamb of the shut doors. Abel looked at the seventh prince from head to toe before clicking his tongue continuously.

    "I told you, Prince." He sighed. "The only time you will maintain your humanity is to live for as long as you can. But it seemed you didn''t listen to my advice."

    Roman lowered his eyes, swallowing down the tension building up in his throat.

    Several days ago, when Dexter fed the injured seventh prince''s blood to recover, it nearly killed Roman. The seventh prince was supposed to rest for a day or two and recover, so the healing and the vampire blood in his system wouldn''t kill him. But s, their n moved up because of Joaquin''s impatience.

    And thus, the seventh prince''s chances of conquering the vampire blood in his system crashed significantly.<sub> </sub>

    It almost killed him, turned him like his father. If not for the fact that Roman had a strong willpower and Abel was watching him all day to kill some time. Roman wouldn''t be standing here after dying twice; first from the failed healing, and second in Joaquin''s hands.

    "Why didn''t you kill me that time?" asked Roman under his breath, slowly raising his eyes at the man standing at the altar. He didn''t even bother with the two people wrestling behind Abel, nor was he bothered by the blood sshing.

    "You and I knew very well... I will not survive," he continued, raising his voice slightly. "So why... why give me a blood contract, Your Majesty?!"

    His entire body trembled with the right mix of fear and anger. The only reason Roman stayed human before Joaquin snapped his neck was that Abel saved him from dying several days ago. But now that Joaquin killed him, which took Roman''s humanity, allowing Abel''s blood ran through his veins freely.

    In other words, Roman''s life was now tied to Abel. If thetter died, he would, and his words would be absolute over Roman''s.

    The seventh prince''s life... was not his own anymore. And he knew for a fact he could no longer turn back to how he was before. He could only ignore the loud voices from a mile away, the sound of pulsating veins, and barely fighting the desire to sink his teeth into someone''s neck.

    The thirst, the hunger, the heightened senses, and everything that Joaquin wanted, were the things so dreadful and Roman knew it very well. It was unlike being humans who had control over their own emotions and life.

    Being <strong>Turned</strong>... was a nightmare everyone just didn''t know about.

    The very reason Joaquin lost was that he didn''t fathom that aside from the evesting life, strength, speed, and everything that vampires carried in their blood, there were others thate along with it. For example, opening the awareness that morphing from human to vampire doesn''t make them invincible. If anything, they were just as vulnerable as a newborn child before those who were born vampires.

    Roman looked at Abel, and he knew deep in his bones that Abel was no ordinary vampire. He smelled different from Conan and Dexter. And their difference in strength was immeasurable.

    "Why?" Abel hummed as he looked up to ponder for an answer. "Because... I feel like it?"

    "Hah..." the seventh prince scoffed in disbelief. People might deem him ungrateful, but who would want to have their lives bound to another? If Abel told him to kill, Roman would, without questions asked. That was the least thing Roman wanted, knowing what sort of devil Abel could be.

    Abel shrugged nonchntly. "My wife is fond of that Princess, and she''ll be very sad if you die so pathetically. You should''ve beheaded him, you know?" he nced at Joaquin, who was crawling while his own father feasted on him.

    "If only you decapitated him, he wouldn''t suffer this way," he continued, smirking in amusement. When he looked back at Roman, his eyelids drooped until they were partially closed. "Or... did you deliberately keep him alive, knowing he''ll die a much more miserable death without sullying your hands?"

    An amused chuckle slipped past Abel''s closed lips while shaking his head. Roman didn''t answer, but Abel wasn''t born yesterday to think Roman was as pure and kind as what he showed in front of Violet.

    "This is thest time I will allow you to use me, Prince." Abel kept his smile and drew a breath, smiling. "Very wellбн enough with the unnecessary talk."

    Abel looked around at the knights and smiled. "Time to y a game."

    He pped and thought of something that was fun. "Whoever survives until my wife wakes up will live." His lips stretched even broader until his pearly teeth were showing.

    "Comeбн show me who is the person worthy of my blood."

 Chapter 438 Always Gives Fighting Chance

    Everyone except Abel''s people expected that those who morphed into vampires would eventually join the Emperor of Haimirich''s royal knight brigade. But with Abel''s twisted game, everyone realized that wasn''t the case.

    There was only one spot avable. Just one.

    Hence, every royal knight inside the chapel fought with all their might while Abel watched from the stair with his jaw propped against his knuckles. Since it was a fight amongst turned vampires, and they were originally elite royal knights of the crown prince, their baseline was equal.

    "My... look at them." Abel chuckled, enjoying the royal rumble unfolding before his eyes. "So energetic and enthusiastic. I want to kill them one by one, but it was too troublesome."

    Joaquin was lying t on his back, panting for air. "I will kill you," he muttered in between his deep breaths, allowing his body to recover from all the injuries he had inflicted in the hands of his own father.

    When Abel announced this survival game now urring inside this chapel, the force that kept Joaquin on the ground was ''removed.'' Thus, Joaquin was able to fight the emperor with all his might. The emperor didn''t die pathetically, though. The old man was persistent and fought well to the end.

    Perhaps that was the emperor''s remaining conscious instinct. To die fighting instead of dying so pathetically in the hands of his own son.

    Which led Joaquin to this situation of recovering while everyone was fighting for their life. He gazed at Abel''s unguarded back.

    "Hm. sure." Abel hummedzily without casting Joaquin a look. "You can try to kill me. I won''t stop you."

    "Tch." Joaquin ground his teeth in irritation. "Are you saying that just because you know I won''t be able to do it if you told me to?"

    "Huh?" Abel nced over his shoulder. "I''m giving you a fighting chance, that''s all. It''s boring when I force people."

    "What?"

    "I did nothing until now."

    Joaquin looked at him in disbelief. Did nothing? Who was Abel deceiving here? Wasn''t he controlling Joaquin until now? If not because of Abel, Joaquin would''ve wielded his sword instead of allowing himself to face such indignation.

    Seeing the disbelief in Joaquin''s eyes, Abel let out a shallow breath. "The thing is, you''re a victim of misinformation." He peeled his eyes away from Joaquin to the mayhem ahead.

    "Whoever instilled the idea that being a vampire is a blessing surely despises you. It was true that if a human turned into a vampire, they would naturally be stronger than an average human. And onemon sacrifice you''ll have to let go of isn''t just your humanity, but your entire way of living," he continued. "It sounds enticing until you realize humans have more liberty than most of us."

    "Humans... and their beguiling nature. Despite knowing their slim chance for survival, they never stop struggling. No matter how many times they fall, they would get right back up with those frail knees of theirs." Abel let out a short, dryugh. "They''re stubborn creatures... but it was admirable in a way."

    "Our kind, on the other hand, was rather simple. The hierarchy." He yed with his fingers leisurely, taking his precious time while there was literally a blood fight in front of him. "Our kind simply follows the hierarchy. Purebloods, nobles, lower nobles, half-bloods, Turned, and Failures."

    He cocked his head back, his eyes falling on Joaquin. "Sure. Someone from the lower bracket can challenge those above them, but that will take you a decade or a century to muster such courage. Mind you, as you live longer, you grew wiser... and so were those people."

    Abel smacked his lips, peeling his eyes away from him to the entertainment in front. His lips stretched into a smirk, seeing Roman taking down three men all on his own.<sub> </sub>

    "The seventh prince is promising, isn''t he? I''m starting to get a liking to him," he mused approvingly. "I nned to let him die that day, but you see, I sensed some sort of connection between the two of us. He is just as hopelessly in love as me. We''re both romantic."

    Abel grinned at Joaquin. "Don''t you think?"

    Joaquin let out a dryugh at the shallow reasoning this man had. However, he didn''t make a move as he mustered enough strength while waiting for his chance to strike.

    "My, my. How boring." Abel yawned as his interest steadily dwindled.

    "So, you''re a pureblood?"

    Abel''s brows rose when Joaquin continued the conversation, casting him a nonchnt look. The side of his lips hooked up, followed by a shrug.

    "You can say that," he answered, ncing at the decapitated emperor next to Joaquin. Abel didn''t dwell on Joaquin as he averted his attention to Roman, since he was the only one who was truly giving him some sort of true entertainment.

    The sound of metal, hisses, grunts, and loud thuds of bodies resonated inside the entire chapel. Everything was turned upside down with the current brawl, and the only safe ce was the altar where Abel was idling.

    This entire time, Joaquin kept his eyes on Abel. Thetter was still reclining with his hands on the surface, eyes on the chaos ensuing.

    Joaquin calmed down his breathing, his hand reaching for his pockets. He did it discreetly, watching Abel lest he noticed what he was doing.

    ''I''ll kill him,'' he told himself, eyes glinting with murderous intent. ''Once I strike him... I''ll take back everything I had lost.''

    Being cornered and having to face all that disgrace was something Joaquin never fathomed he would ever experience. Abel might be a ''pureblood'' and Joaquin''s chances of winning facing this man head-on were negative zero. But s, now that Joaquin regained his freedom, his fear of this man slowly subsided.

    All he needed to do was strike him, and while Abel was down, he would ughter him until he was dead.

    <strong>Sounds like a good n. </strong>

    When Joaquin grabbed a hold of a dagger hidden inside his pocket, he carefully crawled up. But s, just when he was approaching Abel stealthily, thetter suddenly spoke.

    "I always give people some fighting chance..." Abel''s tone was low andzy, but he didn''t move from his spot, leaving his back unguarded.

    "Die!" Joaquin, who was aware he was busted, ground his teeth and thrust the dagger straight into Abel''s neck. However, the tip of the de stopped a centimeter away from his target''s nape, just like how Joaquin froze... and everyone in this room.

    "бн because it''s no fun if I didn''t."

 Chapter 439 [Bonus Chapter]Please Kill Me

    "бн because it''s no fun if I didn''t."

    ng.

    The dagger slowly slipped out of Joaquin''s grip, pupils dting in fear, lungs constricting. His eyes were fixed on his hand that held the dagger previously, watching how clean cuts appeared around his every finger until his bones peeked from his flesh.

    "Ahh!!!" Joaquin''s scream erupted, gripping his wrist to stop the bleeding. He twist and turned on the floor, writhing in agony. The cuts in his hand were deep, but not enough to sever them to allow his body to heal.

    Abel quirked a brow and fluttered his eyshes indifferently at him. His lips were drawn into a thin line, watching Joaquin until thetter was dry heaving.

    "Her screams were louder than that... but no one heard it," he whispered, eyes glinting with his expression cold.

    "Ugh --!" Joaquin, who had barely healed and was still dry heaving, gasped at the unknown gravity that suddenly erupted on his stomach. His mouth fell open, suffocated at the invisible weight pressing down on him.

    Not just him, but some of the knights inside even went down to their knees, unable to bear the weight. The ground cracked until a hallow appeared underneath those corpses on the floor.

    Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly, ncing over his shoulder. A faint exhale escaped his nostrils, arching a brow at Joaquin.

    "Do you now understand that I did nothing yet?" his rasped voice sounded overloud in everyone''s ears, almost causing them to bleed. "The humiliations you had experienced until now... were simply my suggestions, and you did them all on your own."

    Joaquin continued to gasp for air, scratching his neck and rolling to his side. All the quick nning he did just now disappeared without a trace because one thing was for sure; Abel was telling the truth.

    From the beginning, he did nothing to Joaquin aside from talking. The aura he thought Abel was pulling on him wasn''t meant to intimidate. That... was just the natural air surrounding him.

    That was clear now because if Abel did someone, a vampire would certainly know he did something.

    His lips quivered, staring back at this monster. "Kill... kill me now..." tears shone in his eyes, imagining what would happen to him if he lived.

    "No." Abel smiled. "There''s a reason I made you into a vampire, Your Highness. And that is because I want you to live a very, very long life."

    A strong sense of dread traveled down Joaquin''s spine the more Abel''s smile grew wicked. Thetter continued;

    "Don''t worry, Your Highness. Just think of this as a simple act of heroism. I would''ve killed every single one in thisnd, but because of you, your life and death will save them all." бк meaning, Joaquin would die repeatedly to cover the poptions of the empire, which Abel nned to take if not for Aries.

    "This is how Ipromise," he added with a sinister smile. "And you''re doing a good deed... for the first time in your life."

    At that point, Joaquin realized this man... wasn''t like anybody whose wrath was quenchable with just a moment of rage. It wasn''t. His grudges wouldst for centuries... and unfortunately, Joaquin angered him in a way unimaginable.

    Joaquin''s mind went nk, but his hand motioned to pick up the dagger. Without thinking twice or leaving Abel''s gaze, he unhesitatingly slit his throat.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    "Hah... how boring." Abel blinked twice, staring at Joaquin''s body lying motionless on the floor. He kept his eyes on thetter''s figure, and when a minute had passed, Joaquin gasped for air and reopened his eyes.

    "Wee back."

    Joaquin panted for air, seeing the same ceiling of the chapel. He looked to his side and saw that everyone had resumed fighting, and then Abel was staring at him with a misced innocence in his eyes.

    "No..." came out a trembling voice, dread filling his chest. He then once again took the dagger, stabbing his neck, which was followed by darkness. Much to his dismay, he would wake up a minuteter.

    "No!"<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin tried to kill himself repeatedly, and each time he woke up, he was losing his mind.

    He wouldn''t die... just as he wished for immortality.

    The more he died, the more he cursed the blood running through him. He wouldn''t just die, but he couldn''t even totally lose his mind, as if the wires in his head would fix themselves every time it snapped.

    "Heh... how cute." Abel chuckled, enjoying how Joaquin kills himself repeatedly. When he had enough entertainment, his lips stretched even wider.

    Roman was showing dominance, and it wouldn''t take long until the victor of this game would be determined. But that was too early for Abel.

    "Joaquin, I''ll give you a chance," he spoke when Joaquin came back to life once again. "Do you remember the rules of the game?"

    Joaquin froze from stabbing himself one more time. He moved his eyes to Abel''s back, furrowing his brows.

    "The person who wins here will get to live... free from Abel." Abel shed him a bright smile. "You won against him once. Why not try?"

    "What..." Joaquin''s mouth fell open, moving his attention to Roman, who just slew a royal knight.

    In this situation, Joaquin was desperate to just live far away from Abel. Forget about building an empire or the luxury. All he wanted was to stay as far away from this nightmare as possible.

    "I''ll kill him." He announced through his gritted teeth, mustering his strength to get up and fight Roman. He stomped his way towards the seventh prince, yelling, "Roman!!!"

    <strong>****</strong>

    <strong>Dayster...</strong>

    The continuous sound of men fighting subsided the longer the fightsted until there were only two distinct voices that could be heard. And even after days since thest royal knight''s voice faded, those two бк Roman and Joaquin бк fought without a minute of break.

    "Are they... not done yet?" Conan scrunched his nose in dismay, standing outside the chapel. "The Imperial Pce is slowly regaining order, and yet, those two are still going on it."

    Isaiah, who was leaning against the pir under the portico of the chapel, cast Conan a cursory look. His eyes shone genuine wonder, but as usual, he kept whatever question he had for Conan to himself. Asking Conan a question was akin to opening a door for him to diss Isaiah.

    "How can His Majesty find joy in here?" Conan wondered, staring at the shut door, imagining the scenario currently happening inside. "I mean, of course, he already knew who will win. But... why?"

    "Are you asking me to get answers, or just so you can correct me?"

    "Hehe..."

    "..." Isaiah chose silence, eyes on the shut door, back against the pir, arms crossed.

    For the past days, no one had ever approached this ce thanks to Isaiah''s protection and Ismael, who ordered everyone to leave this area alone. No one had left this ce since these doors were shut closed.

    "He didn''t have that much fun as expected." Isaiah''s lips parted, and a soft gust of wind followed his cool, deep voice. "How was Lady Aries?"

    "Still unconscious and recovering." Conan kept his eyes on the shut doors as well. "That means His Majesty stays here until she wakes up, huh?"

    "He has to... since his wrath is something that is quenchless, and he might still destroy thisnd out of boredom."

    A deep sigh slipped past Conan''s lips. "What a piece of work. I hope she wakes up since he prepared his wedding gift for her for a year now."

 Chapter 440 [Bonus Chapter] Vote

    The presence of the monstrous royal knights turned the tides, putting the rebels at a disadvantage. But when they fell back without a word, the rebels took advantage of this confusion to get an equal footing against their enemies. It didn''t take long before the rebels got a hold of the upper hand.

    With the fourth prince, Enrique, and the core members of the Valiente group taking the lead in the stead of Ismael and Roman, the g of the royal family fluttering on top of the tallest tower on the imperial grounds was burned in the middle of the night for everyone to see.

    That same night, the rebels'' battle cry echoed across the country, proiming their victory and freedom.

    But just like every war, gaining victory required sacrifices. Many had lost their lives fighting for what they believed, and with every passing hour, casualties had grown aplenty. It would take long before the empire could recover from all the damages caused by the uprising but with the unity of the new forces that consisted of the church, the Valiente Group, and the third prince''s people, they managed to put an order within the imperial grounds and the capital after four days.

    "About Joaquin..." a man leaning against the wall inside the third prince''s chambers trailed off when Ismael''s eyes fell on him.

    Currently, Climaco, along with a few core members of the Valiente Group бк most of them were noblemen that were ordered to be silenced at Joaquin''s behest, but Roman faked their deaths and recruited them into the rebel group бк gathered in the third prince''s chambers. Ismael''s injuries were fatal, thus refraining him from getting out of bed. They gather in his room temporarily until the third prince recovered.

    "Don''t worry about him." Ismael''s voice was rasped, his throat dry as a desert. He was leaning against the headboard, his face was still swollen and his ck eyes were evident.

    "I''m not worried about him. We, the Valiente, needed reassurance that we didn''t fall into one of his traps," another man бк a middle-aged man бк chimed in solemnly. "No offense, Your Highness. But all of us should''ve been dead long ago, if not for the seventh prince. And we''re all aware of how cunning the crown prince is. Who knows if you and him connived secretly?"

    "No offense taken, and I understand your concerns." Ismael winced, holding his side. "We worked together because we have amon enemy and I don''t expect you to bow down to me now that the monarch had fallen. However, I cannot give Joaquin."

    "Why?" another one voiced out in dismay. "The Seventh Prince hadn''t even appeared since days ago and you were not telling us what happened to him! Did he die? If yes, why are you hiding his body?"

    "You are making too many assumptions!" Climaco butted in, displeased at these people''s attitude towards Ismael. Although Climaco wasn''t a knight in the third prince''s knighthood brigade, he respected the man. Climaco had witnessed the dreadful urrence in the chapel. So he understood where Ismael wasing from.

    Ismael breathed out deeply, glossing his eyes over the people inside the chambers. Since they prioritized putting back the order in the imperial pce and the capital, this was the first proper meeting they had to talk about things that were important. This was something the third prince expected from them, and there was no point in keeping everyone in the dark.

    "You... remembered those royal knights," came out a solemn voice, inviting silence into the room which grew standstill immediately. "I bet you are all wondering how they were so strong."

    "Most of you probably deemed them as merely skilled knights who undergone intense training, but that is not the case. Those knights were just like everyone else who trained, but even after decades of training, they wouldn''t gain such superhuman strength," he continued in the same tone, pausing to let these men absorb his words properly. "Those royal knights who nearly killed us all had undergone experiments conducted secretly by the fifth prince."<sub> </sub>

    "It might be hard to believe my words, but that had been Joaquin''s card. The reason Joaquin was confident in luring the Valiente to the capital using our execution was that he knew he would have thestugh. For a person like him, sacrificing hundreds of his men was too simple." Ismael drew a breath and exhaled it through his lips. "Vampires. Have you heard of them?"

    "Vampires... those bloodsucking monsters in legends?" someone frowned with knitted brows.

    "They''re real." Ismael didn''t beat around the bush and, just as he expected, some of them frowned. "Believe me or not, but those bloodsucking monsters aren''t just part of a creative fable to tickle a person''s imagination. Those creatures of the nights could walk under the sunlight, appeared just like humans, but had capabilities beyond an average human."

    "Joaquin wanted to create that kind of empire," he added. "And those royal knights and the ministers... were the very proof you were looking for. You fought them, and no matter how much you deny this fact, you know deep in your bones they were not normal."

    Another wave of silence descended on the room after Ismael''sst remarks. It was ridiculous, but at the same time, it made sense. They fought the royal knights and even ministers who weren''t originally proficient in swordsmanship. But during the battle, they were all equally strong.

    Pleased that no one seemed to question his credibility, Ismael rocked his head.

    "You were also aware that one of the biggest contributors to this sess was the crown princess." He broke the ice, studying their reaction. When he was certain they weren''t that surprised about it, he continued. "Right now, the crown princess is still recuperating from the injuries she inflicted by opening a way for our entry. She hadn''t woken up."

    "My point here is that Roman and Joaquin wouldn''t return until she regain consciousness. And the reason for this is simple; the person backing up the crown princess will lose his mind waiting." His eyes glinted, giving everyone equal attention. "She is no longer the crown princess nor the empress of the Maganti Empire, but she... is now the Empress of the Haimirich Empire."

    ? "What?"

    "The Haimirich Empire can use her situation as an excuse to start a war since this can appear as the Maganti taking the Empress of another empire a hostage," he added, ignoring the apparent confusion in everyone''s eyes. "You might not know about the Haimirich Empire or the Emperor of thatnd, but there''s only one thing you need to remember about him."

    Ismael swallowed, holding his hand together on top of hisp. "That man... can ruin ournd overnight and without lifting a finger." He breathed out heavily once more, pleased that everyone was focusing.

    "My wording might not fit the situation, but <strong>''fortunately,''</strong> that man only wants either of these things: the destruction of the Maganti Empire that ruined his wife, or Joaquin," Ismael stressed. "If you want Joaquin''s head, then we do not need to prepare because no amount of preparation will save us, our family, and ournd. But if you want peace in thisnd, we have to hand Joaquin over to them."

    "I had already decided, but let''s put it on a vote," he suggested, giving them all chances to decide and put this decision on a vote. "What are your decisions?"

 Chapter 441 [Bonus Chapter]Morros Lifelong Dream

    The core members of the Valiente that made the resistance group stronger with their knowledge, along with Roman, were fallen noblemen. They heard a thing or two about the Haimirich Empire. Who hadn''t? Most empires, as powerful and big as the Maganti Empire, knew the empires that could pose a threat to them.

    A tyrant ruled the Haimirich Empire, and that alone was enough to know what sort of person the sovereign was. So, in the end, although Ismael''s words were hard to believe, they all voted the same thing: to hand over Joaquin''s judgment to the Emperor of Haimirich to avoid another war.

    No one wanted another war, especially in the current state of the Maganti Empire.

    After their meeting and agreement, the men inside the third prince''s chambers left one after another. Climaco stayed, standing beside the bed where Ismael was sitting against the headboard.

    "They don''t look satisfied despite the result of the voting," said Climaco to Ismael, a bit worried that this could put a crack on this frail trust between the third prince and the Valiente group.

    "Of course, they are not satisfied." Ismael winced, ncing at the balcony''s door when it opened from the outside. "But that''s to be expected. Every one of them held a personal grudge against Joaquin. However, they weren''t as foolish as to risk waging a war with a formidable force such as the Haimirich Empire. Even without the knowledge of what sort of monsters the knights in that empire were, Haimirich''s name alone was already frightening at face value."

    The third prince breathed out deeply when Morro sat down on the armchair beside the bed. "Sir Morro, are you alright? You seemed upset for days now."

    "Because I''m upset." Morro frowned, ncing at Ismael and then at Climaco.

    "Was Sir Conan mean to you again?" Ismael queried.

    "No... but they all lied to me." Morro hung his head low, his frown deepening. "They hastened the wedding ceremony and they skip releasing the doves. Instead, His Majesty brought forth hell and everyone just fought."

    "..."

    Ismael and Climaco drew their lips into a thin line, eyes fixed on Morro. Thetter had been frequenting Ismael''s room since the third prince was the only person who was nice to him. Thus, Ismael had noticed the dispirited aura and the invisible dark clouds hovering over Morro''s head. But only now did Ismael ask, since he was recovering for the past several days.

    Who would have thought the reason Morro was so upset was because of such a petty thing? But who were they to judge? Maybe, for Morro, being released at the wedding was an important thing.

    "Sir Morro," Climaco chuckled awkwardly when he recovered. "Is it really that important to be released at the wedding?"

    "It is."

    "Will you tell us the reason?" Ismael chimed in, intrigued by this creature. "Does it represent some sort of important symbolism for your kind?"

    Morro looked up at them ever so slowly and blinked twice. "No, but it is important to me," he answered honestly. "In the past, I''ve witnessed a wedding where the bride and the groom released white birds. Since then, that had been my dream."

    "To be released by the bride and the groom?"

    "To put a dung on top of the Duke''s head."

    "...."

    Ismael and Climaco stared at Morro''s solemn countenance, rendered speechless for this dream of his. So that was the reason? Not the fact that releasing a dove was the physical expression of the sentiment that the bride and the groom were starting a new life together?

    "Sir Morro... I''ve noticed this before. Sir Conan obviously disliked His Grace Darkmore, but... why do you dislike him very much?" asked Ismael after a moment of silence. Not just Conan, but Ismael had also noticed the same dislike from the Marquess, Dexter Vandran.

    The third prince didn''t dwell on it in the past because there were more important things to think about. But now that Morro was speaking about this ''lifelong dream'' of his, he couldn''t help but wonder.<sub> </sub>

    Just why... these people were so against Isaiah, even though the duke seemed like the most sensible among them?

    "Because... if not for him, His Majesty wouldn''t have such a hard life," Morro answered honestly, but like usual, his answer was unintentionally vague. "Although His Majesty''s life had been hard from the beginning, the duke tolerated it."

    "But it''s not like you have a say in it if His Majesty had already decided on something, right?"

    "You do not understand." Morro let out a deep exhale and frowned. "His Majesty''s ambition is to die permanently, and the duke wanted to fulfill that wish. Although it hadn''t been sessful, we all hate it."

    "Oh..." Ismael rocked his head, biting his tongue, eyes still on Morro''s dejected figure. He wanted to ask more questions, but his gut feeling told him he shouldn''t ask further questions. Sometimes, it was better not to know some things especially, when he didn''t n to bother with other people''s business.

    "I''m certain His Majesty will marry her once more and do a proper ceremony." He shed Morro a kind smile, nodding reassuringly. "You still have a chance."

    "I hope."

    "Sir Morro, aren''t you putting your life in danger if you do that?" this time, Climaco, who had strangely gotten close with Morro''s friendly nature in such a short time, raised a question. "Didn''t you say the duke and Sir Conan were strong in their own right?"

    "It was worth the risk." Morro shrugged. "Also, I don''t mind dying. Only humans do."

    "Ah... haha, right."

    With that being said, Climaco and Ismael spent another hour trying to make Morro feel better. Although in their minds, they weren''t convinced that encouraging Morro to put dung on top of Isaiah''s head was a good idea.

    <strong>******</strong>

    Meanwhile, inside the chapel...

    Roman hung his head low. His eyes were lifeless, specks of fresh and dried blood on his cheek. He was exhausted, fighting for days without a second break to eat or at least breathe.

    p Slow ps pierced the still and thick air inside the dark chapel, with only the moonlighting from the broken window as the source of light. But Roman didn''t bother looking at who was pping since there was only one person who was still conscious here.</anda>

    Abel.

    The seventh prince gazed down at Joaquin, who was lying underneath his foot. Joaquin put in a great fight and persisted for days. However, just like when they were both humans, Roman still stood victorious in the end. After all, Roman never rested all these years from swinging his sword and marching in the front line to fight for Joaquin.

    "Amazing! Amazing!" Abel pped happily, still sitting on the same spot on the steps up on the altar. His ps stopped when Roman raised his bloody sword and pointed at him.

    "Last one," Roman breathed out, his chest moving in and out deeply.

    "Huh?"

    "You said thest person who is alive can live in this ce free from you," he stressed, repeating Abel''s words days ago. "There''s still the two of us here and the only time I can live free from you is if you... die."

    The side of Abel''s lips stretched from ear to ear as amusement fastened in his eyes. And before he could speak, Roman already charged toward him with his sword forward.

 Chapter 442 [Bonus Chapter]Expectations In The Future

    "Ahh!"

    Roman thrust his sword forward, only to freeze against his will. No, he wasn''t controlled. It was just that the tip of his sword couldn''t go further with Abel stopping it with one finger! Blood dripped from Abel''s index, making Roman''s throat dry up unnaturally.

    His throat bobbed as his grip trembled. "Stop..." he whispered with a shaking and rasped voice.

    His mind was yelling at him not to sumb to the blood''s aroma that smelled so appetizing. But his stomach continued to grumble and his throat and mouth dried up like a desert. He was hungry and thirsty from all that nonstop fighting. His eyes glowed, glinting dangerously at the person at the other end of the sword.

    "You are right, Your Highness." Abel broke the thick silence between them with a light tone. "I initially nned to fight whoever wins, since I do not have a n to let anyone go. However, you were quite... interesting. Therefore, I changed my mind."

    "Are you so fickle as to change your mind in just a few days?"

    "I''m not fickle, prince." Abel''s lips stretched from ear to ear. "I simply bent the rules."

    He slowly stood up, guiding the sword down effortlessly. He then advanced towards Roman, stopping one step from thetter.

    "That is not what you call being fickle, but an exercise of power. I made the rules, and I can bend them just as much as I please." Abel raised his bleeding finger, pressing it on the corner of the prince''s lips with a smirk. "Don''t be scared, Your Highness. I won''t hurt you, nor do I n to get my hands on your beloved princess."

    "You have my mercy because my darling made an effort to carry a grown man all on her own."

    "Argh!" As soon as Abel''s remarks slipped past his lips, Roman winced as his knees crashed against the floor. Abel pulled just a percent of aura on him, but the seventh prince felt like a bouldernded on his shoulders. Roman only felt relief several secondster when Abel blinked.

    "That''s for that time she carried you all on her own," came out a cold voice as his eyes turned dull. "I''m not angry. It''s just that I hate how she held you."

    "You''re sick..."

    "Am I?" Abel tilted his head to the side. "Prince, what would you feel if your beloved princess had to carry a grown man all on her own at the risk of her life?"

    Roman panted, looking up at Abel, but said nothing. Saying he wouldn''t feel a bit upset was pretentious and hypocritical.

    "See?" Abel could not help but let out a ''tch'', feeling that he was being wronged unjustly here. "I simply let you understand how heavy it was for her to free you out there and carry you all the way to the entrance. I would''ve chopped you limb by limb, but oh well, I do not want to upset my wife."

    Abel slipped his hands inside the pockets of his trousers, eyes still at the seventh prince. "Roman, I do not mind killing you right here and now, or letting you live. The only life that mattered to me was my wife''s." His expression turned solemn, holding Roman''s gaze for a long time.

    "Our blood contract meant nothing to me, but it meant everything to you. Whether or not you acknowledge it, you know deep in your bones your life revolves around me. However, I want nothing from you... not until now."<sub> </sub>

    <o>,m "What do you want from me?"</o>

    The corner of Abel''s lips curled up wickedly. "You already know, Prince." Abel strutted forth, stopping beside Roman.

    "You did a good job cleaning these garbages. But that guy is still alive, just unconscious. I want him alive for the next century." His eyesnded on Joaquin''s unconscious figure. "Rest for now, my dearest vassal. Well done."

    Roman ground his teeth as he balled his hand into a fist while Abel resumed his strides. The chill that went up to his spine with a tinge of satisfaction brought this conflict into his heart. Being called vassal by Abel himself gave him this strong sense of honor, but at the same time, Roman knew that was because his life was now linked to Abel.

    If Abel died, Roman would die as well. And there were more things that Roman felt that were so foreign to him. He didn''t think he would evere to terms with these foreign feelings.

    "Violet..." he whispered, tears glistening across his eyes. "... I''m sorry."

    Roman had a n at first, and that was to retire to live close to Violet and her children. He didn''t have this grand n of moving in with her or starting a romance with Violet. Being able to protect her from afar was good enough for him and make sure she was safe.

    But now, that n went straight to the gutter because one thing was for sure: Roman''s life would only go darker from this moment on. His life was now bound to another, and even if he didn''t want to, the desire to stay by Abel''s side had grown stronger every passing minute.

    "I''m sorry..." tearsnded on the back of his fist, grinding his teeth to muffle his cries.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhile...</strong>

    Abel stopped at the portico of the chapel, looking up at the dull night sky. A fog formed before his lips upon breathing out sharply.

    "What a drama queen," he whispered, hearing Roman''s muffled cry. "And here I thought Conan will be able to defend his tiara for a thousand more years."

    His lips curled up, batting his eyes ever so tenderly. When he peeled his eyes away from the sky, he looked in the direction where he could hear his wife''s faint breathing.

    "Just how long will she make me wait for the wedding night?" he frowned, dragging his feet only to stop after five steps. Abel raised his head once again, looking in a direction farther than anyone could see. His expression was the same, but his eyes glinted with fascination.

    "That''s interesting. I wonder what of sorcery forced her to leave that house." He turned on his heel, resuming in his steps with a low chuckle. "It seemed I''ll be expecting some sort of family reunion soon."

 Chapter 443 [Bonus Chapter] MY WIFE

    When Abel reached the eighth prince''s pce, the only ce in the imperial pce that was at peace and guarded securely, he went straight past the guards. It was their first time seeing him, but the order from the higher up was to let the man with green hair, donning a white suit, to let him get ess everywhere. Ismael didn''t need to do that, though, since Abel could go anywhere if he so pleased. However, it was better for the safety of his own people.

    There were more knights and gueris guarding the guest quarters where Aries was recuperating, but he went past them silently. Reaching the hallway where her chambers were, Abel caught Conan with Curtis, Morro, Climaco, and Dexter idling right outside her room.

    "No one''s entering," Dexter repeated, leaning against the shut doors, arms-crossed. "She needs more rest."

    "Hey, that''s unfair!" Conan harrumphed. "You''ve been going in and out of her room, but we can''t?!"

    "We just want to make sure she is alright," Curtis added, while Morro and Climaco remained silent, knowing they weren''t in the ce to argue.

    "She is alright. You don''t have to see her," Dexter replied with a straight face. "If you truly care, just let her sleep and stop making a fuss here."

    "You just want to hog her all for yourself, don''t you?!" Conan grumbled, miffed at the constant rejection from seeing her.

    "Don''t you have another important thing to do?" asked the marques to the angry Conan. "As far as I remember, you have another wedding to arrange and prepare His Majesty''s gift for my sister."

    "Yes, another wedding!" Morro''s eyes lit up, making Climaco, who was standing beside him, sport aplicated look in his eyes. "Sir Conan, let''s hurry."

    "Yes, weddings... I like." Abel joined in the fun, smiling from ear to ear, watching all of them turn their attention to him.

    "Why are you all outside my wife''s room?" His eyshes fluttered, stressing the word ''wife'' for everyone to get his point. "I see many people care for MY WIFE."

    Dexter and Conan snorted while Curtis scrunched his nose up in dismay.

    "You don''t have to rub that on our face," said Dexter, looking at him in disdain.

    "Don''t rub, what? About MY WIFE?"

    "Your Majesty, we already know it!" Conan hollered.

    "You already know that I am now a married man and have a WIFE named Aries?"

    "..."

    "Wow... he really likes it, huh?" Climaco blurted out, studying Abel from head to toe with mixed emotions. The first time he saw this man, Abel was mming Joaquin''s head inside a crate full of broken tes with a straight face. He knew, at first sight, Abel wasn''t normal and ughtered people without conscience, but... how could Dexter and Conan talk to him so casually without hiding their disdain?

    The interaction felt so foreign for Climaco. In this Maganti Empire, even ministers couldn''t talk to the royalties so casually. There was always a line that one mustn''t cross.

    "Stop it now!" Conan wept, almost on the verge of tears. Climaco and Curtis looked at him with slight surprise, unaware of why this guy was so affected. "Sure, you''re a married man and I''m not! This is all your fault! No, did you purposely keep me busy to sabotage my ns from having a wife?!"

    Conan barked one more time, pointing at the devious Abel. "Now I got to prepare another wedding that isn''t mine! I''m telling you to Lady Aries when she wakes up!" he huffed, walking away angrily.

    "..."<sub> </sub>

    For a moment, there was nothing but silence and Conan''s heavy stomps. Abel''s lips stretched even wider, simpering as he nearly made his dearest vassal cry out of jealousy.

    "You, there." He snapped his eyes at Climaco, making thetter freeze on the spot. "Don''t ever let Conan approach MY WIFE. He will tell me to her."

    "Huh?"

    ? "Marquess бк my brother-inw. Allow me to see my wife." Abel faced Dexter, ignoring the confusion in Climaco''s eyes. As expected, Dexter frowned, not pleased at how Abel gloated about his new status as a married man.

    "She needed rest." The marquess stressed solemnly. "Do not forget, my sister needs rest. Keep your hands off of her or I''ll cut them even before you know it."

    "Well, yes, of course, my brother-inw." Abel raised his hands, grinning from ear to ear.

    Meanwhile, Dexter''s expression died. It was pointless, he thought. With a faint huff, Dexter stepped aside to let this man in before Abel make his blood boil even more.

    "Thank you very much, brother-inw." Abel pranced, winking at him as he walked past him.

    "One more time and I''ll cut your tongue."

    "Haha! So funny~!" Abelughed happily, entering the chambers in high spirits.

    When the door shut closed, everyone who was left outside бк except Morro бк was looking at Abel''s back in disbelief. Thetter looked so happy, and hisughter sounded more evil until the door shut closed.

    "I swear to whoever I''ll kill him someday," Dexter seethed, grinding his teeth in irritation.

    Climaco hadn''t grasped everything as his eyes fell on Dexter''s back. ''They really... have a strange rtionship,'' he whispered internally. He snapped his eyes when Morro ced a hand on Curtis and Climaco''s shoulders.

    "Let''s go." Morro pushed them in the direction where Conan left.

    "Wait бк" Curtis looked back at the same time Climaco did. "Where --"

    "We need to help Sir Conan," exined Morro, keeping it short and simple. "His Majesty''s gifts to Lady Aries are not here, so we need to move. Else, we cannot attend the wedding on time."

    "Huh???"

    Despite the bafflement, Morro didn''t stop pushing them with his hands on either their shoulder. Dexter cast the three a look, shaking his head before leaning against the window right in front of the shut doors. He folded his arms under his chest, eyes on the door, keeping his silence for a long time.

    "Those gifts, huh?" he whispered after the prolonged silence, peeling his eyes from the door to the window behind him. Outside were knights gathering corpses and tossing them on a cart, still cleaning up the mess these very people had started.

    "What a miracle," he whispered once more, still in disbelief about how there were people alive in thisnd when Abel was here. "Really... a miracle."

 Chapter 444 [Bonus Chapter]Welcome Back, Gorgeous.

    Ever since Aries escaped Joaquin''s grasp that day at the world summit, she never recalled a day she rested. Although her first several months in the Haimirich Empire were peaceful, her brain never rxed. She couldn''t help but always wonder about many things, such as <strong>''when would Abele to her room for her service?''</strong>, <strong>''was he violent?''</strong>,<strong> ''what sort of pain must she prepare for?</strong> And the sort.

    Obviously, Abel was very different from what she expected. He was quite tolerable, but at the same time, very stressful to deal with. She had to tread on eggshells around him, afraid she would lose her life if she uttered the wrong word or don''t utter a word at all.

    Even when her rtionship with him had gotten better over time, Aries still pushed herself beyond the limit to exact her revenge on Joaquin until she finally stepped foot in this verynd. As soon as she returned to the Maganti Empire, everything that followed was a series of scheme after scheme, acting all day even when no one was looking, and thinking about every possible setback and solution.

    It was a miracle how shested for years of abuse, pressure, and battle for survival. But Aries was only human, and her body eventually tapped out, forcing rest into her exhausted body and mind.

    Most of the time, Aries would have nightmares every single night, making her relive the traumatizing times of her life. It was like a reminder to her why she should survive and thrive.

    But now, there was nothing.

    There were no nightmares or the sort. It was just darkness, stuck in the middle of the lightless tunnel where she didn''t want to move an inch to see where it would lead her. It was peaceful and silent, something she would get addicted to.

    "Funny," she whispered, her voice echoing in this pitch-ck darkness. Despite not seeing a thing, she knew she was sitting and hugging her knees. "I don''t feel alone or lonely at all."

    "Because you are not."

    Her lips curled up upon hearing Abel''s familiar voice right beside her. She lowered her head until her chin was on her knees.

    "Am I dreaming?" she asked soothingly.

    "You are... sleeping, but not dreaming," he answered while sitting beside her leisurely. "We are not in a dream, darling. We''re in your subconscious."

    "Oh..."

    Abel kept his eyes on her and smiled, but said nothing further. As they kept their sentiments in their head, silence danced with the thick darkness for the two of them to watch.

    "Have I been sleeping that long?" she asked after the prolonged silence.

    "I wouldn''t be here if you''re not taking too long toe back to me, darling."

    "I see," she whispered, lowering her eyes. "I was tired."

    "I know."

    "Were you angry I was taking too long?"

    "No, but I definitely missed you."

    She smiled subtly. "The only reason I will wake up is to be with you," she confessed under her breath. "Even so, I need a little break."

    "I know." He rocked his head. "You deserved it, darling. Rest."

    Silence once again fell on them after his remarks. Abel had been with her sinceing to her room, keeping his silence and almost fusing with darkness. He didn''t n to let her know about his presence and simply nned to be there for her, but as expected, she was keen, even in her subconscious mind.

    "What happened when I passed out?" she inquired once more after a long time.

    He hummed for a moment to ponder about it. "I don''t know."

    "You mean you don''t care enough for you to bother?"

    "I can check for you."

    "No need." She chuckled weakly. "Just stay here with me."

    "It''ll be an honor."

    "Can you see me?" she asked out of in curiosity because she couldn''t see him. It was just darkness, as if she had her eyes closed, even when she was certain she had them open.

    "Yes. Clearly."

    "I want to see you," she whispered.<sub> </sub>

    "Then, wake up."

    Her lips curled bitterly. "Not yet," her voice was low and soft. "Will you get angry about that?"

    "No." Abel let out a shallow breath, stretched his arm, and held her hand. "Better?"

    Aries''s eyes softened, feeling his hand on top of her fist that was between them. Her bitter smile was slowly reced with affection and gentleness.

    "Mhm..." she hummed. "Better."

    "I will never get angry at you," he reassured calmly. "Even if you stab me in the back, I won''t get angry. You don''t have to keep asking questions with obvious answers."

    "Can you me me?" she returned in the same tone. "Your feelings and opinions matter to me. I don''t want to upset you."

    "The only time you will upset me is if you die."

    Another faint chuckle slipped past her lips while his lips stretched. He squeezed her hand mildly, letting his faint warmth transfer to her chilled fingers.

    "You''ll be fine, darling," he reassured, raising her hand to his lips. He nted a soft peck on her knuckles. "You don''t have to be afraid. I got your back."

    Aries bit her inner lips. "I know that," she answered with a long-suffering sigh. "But that scares me."

    She slowly adjusted her position until she was facing the direction where his voice wasing from. Although she couldn''t see him, Aries could feel his gaze.

    "I know you will not hurt me, butбн what if I fail?" came out a whisper, expressing the newfound fear of the development of their rtionship. "I can''tбн bear a child anymore, Abel."

    "Was being unable to bear a child called a failure?"

    "Butбн" she lowered her head. "бн that''s the only thing I can give you."

    He frowned and sighed, cupping her cheek up. His eyes scanned her face in this darkness, seeing a thousand more unspoken fear settling in her heart aside from not being able to bear a child.

    "Love me," he uttered under his breath. "And choose me even if it hurts, or it is hard sometimes. That''s all you need to do, and that''s all I need from you. To love me with all your heartбн and allowing me to love you to my heart''s content."

    Abel leaned closer until his forehead was resting on hers. His hand was still cupping her cheek while the other cradling her hand.

    "I don''t want to fail you," she repeated, unable to express all other things that could be called failing him and this love. She might be sure she wouldn''t want to fail him intentionally. It was just that everything she had loved often ended up miserable.

    "You won''t," he returned under his breath, but with conviction. "Trust me, you won''t."

    Aries raised her other hand to hold the hand that was cupping her cheek. "How do you know I won''t?"

    "Because I said so."

    Despite not seeing his face, Aries smiled warmly. She could feel his affection not just from his touch, but also from his gaze.

    "Just what if we failed?" she whispered, making him smile subtly.

    "We''ll figure it out... together."

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    Aries slowly opened her eyes, only to be greeted by the same voice lying on her side. She blinked weakly until his face hovering on her side came clear.

    "Wee back, Gorgeous." His lips stretched into a sly smirk while she smiled back tenderly.

    "I''m home."

 Chapter 445 [Bonus Chapter]Recovery

    When Aries regained her consciousness, it waste in the night. She had been sleeping for two weeks after her wedding, and Abel had stayed sinceing out of the chapel. Once morning came, the few servants handpicked by the third prince to clean Aries arrived.

    Seeing her conscious, the news about Aries immediately spread like a wildfire. Everyone was aware of the crown princess'' involvement in the revolt and was seen in the eyes of the knights, as one of them. Therefore, upon receiving the news she had recovered after sleeping for two weeks was akin to plucking out a thorn in their heart.

    Two weeks wasn''t that long, but it was enough time to bring back the order in thend. Although there were still some who were displeased regarding the revolt, the majority were overjoyed by the fall of the evil crown prince. Hence, with their united hearts, everyone was trying to move forward, helping those who needed help, and preparing for a new regime.

    Many from the Valiente and knights flocked in front of the Jade Pce, carrying flowers and herbs, some even gifts to wish Aries a speedy recovery. Even though the knights in charge of the security of the Jade Pce chased them all away, some were too persistent ining every day with flowers.

    It was silly when they had better things to do, but Ismael exercised maximum tolerance. Every single one of them was suppressed and hearing that the person behind the sess of this revolt had regained consciousness, they all wanted to express their gratitude.

    "Damn it..." Ismael pinched the bridge of his nose, eyes closed. "Do they have any idea the best way to express their gratitude is to keep it low?"

    Aries chuckled, staring at Ismael, who was sitting across from her. The third prince came here the very next day when he heard about the news, but only three dayster did Dexter allow visitors.

    "You seemed pretty beat," she pointed out. His bruises on his face and neck were still apparent, but the swelling already faded. "I''m d to see you alive, Your Highness."

    Ismael peeked from his one eye before dropping his hand to the armrest. A shallow exhale escaped his nostrils, studying her paleplexion.

    "You too," he replied. "You slept for over two weeks. Everyone thought you died."

    "I also thought I did."

    "You..." he let out another sigh, smacking his lips. "Thank you, Your Royal Highness."

    "I''m no longer the crown princess of the Maganti Empire."

    "But still and will always be the beloved crown princess of thend of Rikhill," he argued almost immediately.

    Aries pursed her lips and smiled subtly.

    "You paved the way," Ismael continued when she kept silent. "If not for you, we wouldn''t go that far... at least, not that easily."

    "I didn''t mean it that way." Her lips remained curled up, looking to the window where she could see the clear sky in the first week of spring. "They want to drag me somewhere, and I had to fight for my own freedom. I didn''t pave the way for all of you. I hated Maganti, and I still hate it. Don''t thank me."

    Ismael studied her side profile, only to let out another shallow sigh. Yet, the side of his lips curled up subtly. Whether she admitted it or used ame excuse, they both knew Aries fought fiercely because she wanted to help them in a way she could. After all, she could''ve just fled after reaching her goal and married Abel.<sub> </sub>

    "Although it quieted down, there were still some things to be taken care of. Because Joaquin had made an enemy to everyone, we all shared onemon goal, and that was to restore the peace in thisnd." He cleared his throat, changing the subject and filling her in with the current state of affairs. "Although... some were still raising a petition to hang his head in the city gate for everyone to see."

    Her eyes softened, listening to him in silence. "Is that so?"

    "I told them he... was apparently, got burned in the explosion."

    "Did he, though?" she asked, causing his brows to crease.

    ''She doesn''t know?'' he wondered internally, pondering whether Abel was intentionally keeping her in the dark or it was just that they didn''t have the leisure to talk since she was still recovering.

    "Er..." Ismael scratched the back of his head, a bit conflicted about it. "Obviously, he didn''t. But everyone agreed to let the sovereign of Haimirich handle the verdict since they helped to subdue those royal knights Javier turned to monsters."

    "I see..." Aries rocked her head mildly, keeping her eyes on the scenery outside the window.

    "I don''t know what happened to him. I thought you had talked about this with his Majesty."

    "My husband," she corrected, snapping her eyes ever so tenderly at him. "Address him, my husband, in front of me."

    "Ahh... ha ha." Ismaelughed awkwardly, feeling this sort of deja vu with hisst encounter with Abel. Just like her, Abel''s every sentence had<strong> ''wife''</strong> in it.

    "I requested not to hear a word about the news outside when I regained consciousness. Actually, I didn''t want to know what happened and your ns for the future. It would be better to focus on my own healing," she exined calmly, raising her eyes when she caught a figure entering the chambers. Her lips curled up, making Ismael look back to see Abel strutting his way in.

    "Hello, Prince." Abel plopped his butt down beside Aries, spreading his arm over the backrest and across her figure. "Hello, darling."

    Aries smiled at him before shifting her attention to the man across from them. "I know you simply feel obligated to inform me about the current state of affairs, but I am not interested. I achieved my goal and Joaquin had fallen. Whether the Maganti recovers is none of my concern anymore."

    She leaned back, nting a hand on top of Abel''s leg. She nced at her husband once more and then back at Ismael.

    "I''d appreciate it, though, if you visit me to share a cup of tea." Her smile stretched, nodding encouragingly. "Otherwise, save yourself some trouble and don''t visit me with such ame excuse to inform me of something that I am not interested in. I''m not your boss."

    "Actually, I didn''t visit you just to report about the current state of affairs," Ismael confessed, darting his eyes between Abel and Aries. He mustered a lifetime of courage, fighting his tongue from rolling back to continue his sentiment. After a minute of inner struggle, Ismael sessfully forced his voice out with a thought of ''now or never.''

    "I came here to offer you permanent residence."

 Chapter 446 [Bonus Chapter] Sweet Cause Of Death

    "I came here to offer you permanent residence."

    Aries furrowed her brows while Abel''s eyes fastened with amusement. They both looked at each other for a second and then looked back at Ismael with the same intrigued in their eyes.

    "A permanent residence?" she repeated, almost chuckling at the amount of knowledge in this offer.

    "Interesting," Abel chimed in, rather amused at this offer, instead of taking it to the heart. "I suppose you had thought this through before asking <strong>my wife</strong> to stay in here."

    Ismael drew a breath and cleared his throat nervously. When he recovered slightly, he cast Abel a cursory look and then settled his attention at Aries. He leaned forward, elbows on his thighs, hands connected.

    "Your Royal Highness, I know my brother, the crown prince, had wronged you and thend of Rikhill. Everyone here, including myself, owed you the world for feigning deaf, mute, and blind from the abuse. There''s no amount of wealth and words of apology that could bring back those that were taken from you," Ismael exined solemnly while holding her gaze. "You loathed thisnd and we would forever repent for failing you."

    He paused, gripping his hand tightly. "I will forever repent for my sins, Your Royal Highness. And as I vowed to never deviate from my duties, even in front of death himself, I want to take care of you."

    "You understand that you sound like you are confessing to another man''s wife, right?" she replied awkwardly, tilting her head to the side.

    "I do not mind if my tone and my intentions are to be misunderstood." The third prince''s eyesnded on Abel fearlessly, but his throat still bobbed. "As I''ve said, I vowed to repay you properly and won''t cower even in front of death himself."

    "My, my... is this what you call a bitter love rival?" Abel simpered, grinning triumphantly. "Apologies, but I had won."

    Ismael peeled his eyes from the joyous Abel to Aries. "It might not mean much, but my doors are always open for you. I will give you everything you need, far away from any political struggle and violence. I will give you a peaceful life where you do not have to worry about your life or someone harming you."

    "Hah..." Aries could not help but let out a dry chuckle. But deep in her heart, she knew his intention wasn''t what it looked like. "Why, Ismael?"

    "Because you deserved more peace," he answered under his breath, but his tone still tinge with strong conviction. "You deserved better, to start anew, far away from all these messes you will not avoid once you go back to Haimirich as his wife."

    The side of Abel''s lips curled up in satisfaction, nodding in agreement. What the third prince had said was correct. Problems and tiring schemes would inevitably arise, and Aries could only wonder when it would happen. Ismael was giving her an option and Abel was fine with it; it actually pleased him.

    Abel looked at Aries''s side profile, letting her decide whether or not to take Ismael''s offer. "I don''t mind if you want to take his offer, darling. I''ll support it."

    Aries nced at Abel and auto-tranted his words into<strong> ''I don''t mind leaving Haimirich and elope with you.''</strong> But this brought a subtle smile to her face, setting her eyes back to the man sitting across from her.

    "I appreciate the offer, Your Highness. However," she squeezed Abel''s thigh mildly. "I had epted the harsh reality that there is no shortage of struggles and problems life had in store for all of us."

    She then looked back at Abel and her eyes softened. "It''s just a matter of who you want to struggle with."

    "How sweet." His eyshes drooped, caressing her jaw with his fingertips. "I can feel my heart meltingбн I guess this is how I will die. What a sweet cause of death."

    "Why are you so dramatic?"

    "But it''s true, darling. Should I take out my heart just to prove it had melted?"<sub> </sub>

    Her eyes dted in horror, sping his leg on instinct. "Don''t joke like that!"

    "I wasn''t joking."

    "That''s the point!" she eximed in panic, knowing Abel would literally take his heart out just to prove he was telling the truth! "Abel, normal, please!"

    He frowned as if he was wronged. "Darling, I am very normal."

    "Yes, in your perspective, you are!"

    "Are you saying I was crazy?"

    "No, but I amбн I think."

    "Hahбн" Abel studied her for a second and then smirked. "бн it''s alright. I ept this crazy girl."

    Watching them interact, Ismael let out a defeated sigh. Yet, his lips could not help but stretch wider until low chuckles slipped past his lips. As his waves ofughter sounded louder, Aries and Abel looked back at him with genuine wonder in their eyes.

    "Did heбн snap?" she asked in a low tone, leaning closer to Abel''s side.

    Abel nced at her and lowered his head so she would hear him. "Darling, that is not the question you should be asking. But yes, he did."

    "Goodnessбн" she clicked her tongue, shaking her head, eyes on Ismael.

    While Abel and Aries were shamelessly giving him this judgmental look, Ismael ignored them. He chuckled as if he just heard something funny until he was wiping the tears from the corner of his eyes. When he recovered, he cleared his throat and darted his eyes between the two.

    His kind smile remained. "Your Royal Highness, my offer is valid forever. Not just to you, but to your offspring as well. If you needed a ce to stay, the gates of our empire will open up for you." He then set his eyes on Abel and his expression grew solemn.

    "Your Majesty, I know the Haimirich Empire does not need the resources of the Maganti Empire. But if you still want a diplomatic rtionship, we are open for negotiations," he remarked with clear respect to the emperor.

    Ismael drew another deep breath, nting his hands on either side of his leg. He looked at the two of them before bending over, bowing deeply at them.

    "Thank you for saving us and ournd. You twoбн will always be in my prayers." He shut his eyes and huffed, while Aries and Abel looked at each other with a smile.

    "I hope that prayer is not about our demise," Abel humored, grinning from ear to ear as they watch Ismael raise his head. The third prince''s lips stretched broader, looking back at those beautiful creatures others had deemed monsters.

    In Ismael''s eyes, those two were far from being monsters. They were beautiful from inside and out бк not perfect, but they were good people. And in his heart, they were his... friends.

 Chapter 447 He Was Silly

    Ismael didn''t idle for long and left Abel and Aries for their quality time. The third prince was no masochist as to watch them flirt with each other at every opportunity they got. Also, he had already offered her to stay in the empire, however shameless it may have sounded, but Ismael was serious about it.

    Standing outside the shut chambers, the third prince looked back and smiled subtly. A chuckle slipped past his closed lips, shaking his head mildly. When he took a step forward, he went straight to the window in front of her chambers instead of going to a more important ce where he was needed.

    "Ah..." Ismael nted his palms on the sill, looking outside with a smile. The scenery outside wasn''t as pretty as it used to be, with some burnt and ruined castles in sight. Knights were still busy pulling wagons, and workers restoring the imperial pce. There was still work to do, and it appeared endless, but s, his smile was peaceful, and his eyes were gentle.

    "What a great weather," he whispered, looking up at the clear sky after a long winter.

    Ismael idled, indulging in the scenery for as long as he could. When he snapped his eyes, he pushed himself away and straightened his back. He nced at the shut doors and chuckled.

    "Hah!" he huffed, setting his eyes ahead, raising his chin. He wiggled his shoulder lightly and rubbed his palms to boost his spirit up. "Alright, another day to fix things. Let''s go!"

    With that being said, Ismael marched away, prepared to live yet another tiring day as the person who was currently in charge of the empire.

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> Abel let out a dry chuckle, catching Aries''s attention.

    "Hmm?" she hummed, cing back the teacup on top of the coffee table in front of where they were sitting. "Why are you suddenlyughing?"

    "Nothing, darling. I''m simply amused by the third prince." He shrugged, simpering yfully. He reached for the tip of her hair, twirling his finger around it. His action brought a subtle smile to her eyes.

    Aries leaned back, eyes still on him. "So, it''s really fine if I epted the Third Prince''s offer? It sounds like he wants to take me as his mistress."

    "I''m still in a great mood to let his tone slide."

    "And about the offer?" she stressed. "If I epted it, you''re fine with it?"

    "I don''t think I failed to emphasis my support for my wife''s decision."

    "You will leave Haimirich?"

    Abel''s lips parted, but his voice was stuck in his throat. His eyes studied the luster in her mesmerizing green eyes and then smiled.

    "No," he replied, shaking his head mildly. As expected, Aries narrowed her eyes at him suspiciously, but his smirk grew arrogant. "I''ll take Haimirich with me. We will follow everywhere you go, darling."

    "Oh... ah бк what?" Aries scrunched her nose up in dismay, only to receive an indifferent shrug from him.

    ''He didn''t mean to say he would take Haimirich with him, as in conquering Maganti and making it the new capital of Haimirich, right?'' she wondered, but deep in her heart, she already knew that was exactly what he meant.

    "Really..." she whispered, letting out a long-suffering sigh, rolling her eyes when his lips stretched broader.<sub> </sub>

    Aries adjusted on her seat until her upper body was facing him. Her eyes moved from his face down to his waist, then up to his eyes again. His brows rose, tilting his head at her sudden shift in the mood.

    "Here." She raised her arm to him, her hand in a mild grip. "Darling, you haven''t had my blood for weeks. Although I hadn''t fully recovered and should refrain from moving too much, I think I can give you a bit of my blood."

    Abel blinked twice, scrutinizing the resolve in her eyes. Aries was nodding at him encouragingly, shoving her fist to his chest as if to urge him to sink his teeth into her wrist. His lips curled up before a wave ofughter broke out.

    A frown instantly resurfaced on her visage, getting more annoyed the longer heughed.

    "Stopughing like that, Abel." She clicked her tongue in annoyance, retrieving her hand only to fold her arms under her chest. "You''re making me feel embarrassed."

    "Apologies, darling." Abel shook his head, stopping himself fromughing. However, even when he bit his tongue, his shoulder kept trembling until he was covering his face with his palm. At this point, Aries''s expression was deader than a dead.

    "Stopughing now." She cast him a sidelong nce, seeing him hunching in with his hand still covering his face. A scoff escaped her mouth, running her tongue across her inner cheek.

    "This man... wants to die so bad, huh?" she murmured, her blood pressure slowly peaking.

    "Please, darling, mercy." Abel drew a deep breath, raising his head. The corner of his eyes was still squinting while doing his best to regain hisposure.

    "Should youugh at me just because I am offering my lowly blood to someone as great as you?"

    "Darling, you''ll break my heart if you call your blood lowly one more time," he crooned dramatically, cing his hand across his chest.

    "I will break your heart... for real."

    Abel chuckled at the fearless threat uttered through her gritted teeth. He cleared his throat once more, leaning his side against the backrest, smiling from ear to ear.

    "I was simply amused, darling. I wasn''tughing at you." He confessed, "I wasughing at how silly I was."

    "Huh?"

    Abel smacked his lips, raising a hand and tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear. "If only I knew you''d be this weing, I would''ve told you sooner than dread every single time I was with you, wondering when would this magical momentst." His eyes softened and his smile grew gentle, brushing her cheek with his thumb lovingly.

    "That thought had always scared the hell out of me, darling. But now... no words can justify the joy swelling in my chest. I can onlyugh." He smiled, watching the corner of her lips turn up into a subtle smile. "Rather than allowing me to drink your blood, I''ll take your lips instead."

    Aries chuckled, closing her eyes as he leaned close. "Sure," came out a whisper, and he sucked her breath away.

 Chapter 448 Practicing Abstinence

    The past several months were exhausting and draining with their emotions high, but unable to express them. But now that everything was over, it felt rewarding.

    Kissing passionately and gently, Aries and Abel chuckled against each other''s lips. He was still cupping her cheek, resting his forehead against hers the moment his lips parted from hers.

    ? "I am overjoyed, darling," Abel confessed under his breath, eyes partially closed. "Are you?"

    Her lips stretched broader. "Very much. I felt reborn."

    "I''m d to hear that." Abel slowly drew his head back to see her face better. His eyes scanned every pore of her face, etching her appearance deep in his head to make sure he would never forget this beauty.

    "You are always gorgeous, darling," he praised with a rasped voice, brushing his thumb on her lean cheek. "And you are mine. Lucky me."

    A giggle escaped her mouth, biting her lips to stop it from stretching even wider. Being praised by him and being looked at with such admiration and appreciation was the biggestpliment she had ever received. Although many had praised her in the past and she had received countless love confessions бк even a sickening obsession бк Abel''s way was special.

    Just his gaze alone could tug her heartstrings and his gentle touch would electrify every fiber of her body. But the most special about it was that he never forced her. He had allowed her to grow, to get rid of the suppressed anger weighing her heart down, and granted her a chance to start with a clean te.

    "Should we go to bed?" she suggested after a minute of appreciating his existence. "Just be gentle, since my stitches can still open up."

    His eyes fastened with amusement. "How enticing. I immediately had an erection," he admitted, making her giggle heartily.

    "I''m serious, Abel." Aries ced a hand on top of his thigh. "We hadn''t done our marital duties. But I''ve rested enough and I can at least go for a round."

    His brows rose, eyes falling on her hand on his thigh. Just being around her was enough to stroke his lustful nature, and her faintest touch could set his body ame. Abel hooked a finger inside his cravat, loosening it a bit. When he raised his pair of naturally sharp eyes on her, his throat bobbed at her bright smile.

    "Do you have any idea how stunning you look right now?" he asked with a rasped voice, pinching her chin gently. "I literally felt my heart melt."

    Aries chuckled, leaning in yfully. "Should we kiss?"

    "I think we should, but then again... I don''t think I can control myself, darling. My brain is currently giving me a lecture on what gentleness means, but the lecture is quite hopeless against my body, heart, soul бк especially against my erection," he exined with a heavy heart, letting out a deep exhale. "I cannot believe myself, darling."

    "I can''t believe you too," she replied with augh. "You''re refusing?"

    "No, darling!" he gasped. "I''m dying it."

    "It''s the same."

    Abel let out another sigh, ncing at the bed, only to sigh once again. He never felt so defeated in his life. Never in his life would he have imagined he would dy pinning her under him, and it left a bitter taste in his mouth.

    "From now on, you can''t get a single scratch on you," he announced with determination. "I only made an exception, since it is inevitable for you not to get hurt in this ce. But now that your business in this ce is over, you can''t get a scratch."<sub> </sub>

    "Scary. I''ll take care of myself then." She poked the tip of his nose, grinning yfully. "How cute. You look like a whiny boy with that deep frown you''re wearing. Don''t cry."

    "I am about to whine and cry, indeed." His expression died once more, but Aries giggled at his ''dilemma.'' "Aries, you need to take me seriously."

    "I am taking you seriously."

    "Darling, I would''ve healed you with my blood, but you lost too much blood, and giving you mine is akin to recing it." He sighed for the umpteenth time, holding her hand close to his chest. "Stop feasting on my woes when my intentions are good. This is the reason I dislike exercising good deeds."

    Ariesughed, squeezing his hand mildly. "Alright. I was in the wrong. No more." But that didn''t seem to please him either, making her purse her lips to suppress her giggle.

    <strong>This was karma,</strong> he thought. He enjoyed her frustration every time she was about to reach climax, only for Abel to stop. Now, he had to practice abstinence. All he could do was guide her hand to his lips, showering it with countless kisses.

    "Abel, I hadn''t seen my brothertely," she spoke after watching him shower her hand with affectionate kisses.

    "Oh." Abel raised his head, reminded of something important he kept forgetting. He looked at her and blinked twice, smiling. The sudden shift in his mood caused her to narrow her eyes and furrow her brows.

    "They left," he exined.

    "What?" she frowned. "So soon?"

    "Mhm. They have to since they do not have wings to fly. Even if they travel by foot, it''ll still take them some time."

    "Oh... how long would they travel by foot? A month?"

    "A week."

    Aries instantly frowned, scrunching her nose up. "That''s still not long! By carriage, it would take us at least two months."

    "But I take less than a week to reach Haimirich. A day is enough if I don''t rest." He shrugged, rendering her speechless. It took her a minute to absorb this information, letting out a deep exhale.

    "That''s amazing," came out a whisper, scanning his face. "So, they returned to Haimirich?"

    "No." Her brows furrowed at his reply, only to see him smirk right after. Abel moved closer, smiling from ear to ear, holding her gaze with excitement. He pinched her cheek, and his eyes squinted.

    "I prepared a gift for you," he said. "Let''s get married again, Aries."

    Aries could only look at his excited countenance as he asked her hand for marriage once again. Little did she know, Abel had already prepared his gift for quite some time now, which she had never fathomed he would ever consider.

 Chapter 449 Leaving Tonight

    Abel and Aries stayed in the chambers all day long until night fell. This had been their usual routine, and it amazed her how the two of them couldst locked up in a room without getting bored. It was as though they didn''t have any shortage of topics they could talk about and debate.

    "Amazing, right?" Aries nced over her shoulder, covering her und bosom with a quilt while Abel was sitting behind her on the bed. "They didn''t swell that much."

    Her lips curled up while Abel cleaned up the wounds on her back after finishing the front. This had been a part of their routine since Abel preferred tending to her wounds instead of passing the task to a servant.

    "No, it''s not amazing." His voice was rasped, and maic, eyes relenting at the wounds on her back. Unlike therge stitches on her front and arms, the wounds on her back were minor. Still, it didn''t make him feel relief or the sort. All he could think about every time he cleaned her wounds was he wouldn''t allow her to be in such a situation again.

    "No more," he added under his breath, leaning forward to nt a kiss on the healing sh across her shoulder de. He didn''t stop there and showered all healed scars and healing wounds with soft kisses. His action brought a subtle smile to her face. When he was done, Aries adjusted her position until she was facing him.

    This time, she leaned forward and imed his lips for a soft peck.

    "Your kisses are more effective than the ointments." She smiled as she drew back, enjoying the bewitching beauty looking back at her. "But yes, no more. I won''t put myself in danger, nor I will be reckless. So you do not need to worry."

    "I''m not worried, because I''ll make sure you will not." He winked before his eyes fell on her upper chest that she was covering with a quilt. His lips instantly curved down as a faint breath slipped past his nostrils. Seeing this, Aries couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "Stop looking down. My eyes are up here." Her lips were stretching from ear to ear, watching him raise his pair of somber eyes. "You should learn how to exercise gentleness and stop thinking of fucking me until my ears bleed. If only you can do that, we wouldn''t have this dilemma."

    Abel shook his head mildly. "You do not understand."

    "What is it I cannot understand?"

    "Even if I am a saint, I''ll still have the same fantasy." He shrugged, tilting his body to grab her nightdress. "Men are simple, darling. We are all the same beast on the bed."

    Abel tossed the nightdress, whichnded over her head. Aries didn''t mind as she pulled it downzily, eyes still fixed on him.

    "You should dress up now, darling. We will leave at midnight."

    "Huh?"

    "It''s better to travel at night." He looked at her with an almost innocent expression. "So we can reach our destination at dawn. Your wounds are alright and they won''t open up if I carried you."

    "Wait, wait." Her face contorted in confusion, stopping him for a second. "We''re leaving?"

    "You don''t want to?"

    "No, it''s not that. But you mean we''re leaving tonight?"

    "Yes. That is what I said, darling."

    "Via...?"

    "Me."<sub> </sub>

    Aries looked at him, wide-eyed. "We will fly?" she asked, and he hummed, "uh-huh," as a response.

    For a moment, Aries held her breath as she processed this news in her head. He had proposed to her this morning, and obviously, she had no reason to refuse. But Abel didn''t say anything regarding leaving tonight and simply flirted with her all day long.

    "Can we not fly?" she asked after a minute, her voice shaking.

    "Are you afraid?" he arched a brow, studying the expression stered on her face.

    "No, it''s not that, Abel." Aries moved closer and held his hand. "Your wings... hurt you. Don''t use them anymore if they only hurt you."

    "They don''t, darling. Not anymore."

    She pursed her lips into a thin line, her expression hopeful, but to no avail. Abel blinked countless times, giving her this unfazed look as if he didn''t understand her worry.

    "I will be fine," he breathed out in surrender, lowering his head until they were looking eye to eye. "Don''t you want to fly?"

    "I want to experience it once, but not at the expense of allowing you to endure pain."

    "Enduring means still being in pain, but being numb is not feeling anything in the slightest. Think of it as you getting stabbed, darling. You are so numb in the pain you do not mind stabbing yourself," he exined in a knowing tone.

    Despite that he had to exin this, Abel was pleased he was experiencing such things. It truly felt like a life of a married man; it made him want to see everyone and gloat about it.

    Abel cupped her cheek, but his smile still looked wicked. "I''ll be alright."

    Aries remained silent while holding his gaze. Seeing that he had already decided, she knew she couldn''t change his mind anymore.

    "Fine." She huffed faintly. "But before that, don''t we need to leave a word to Ismael?"

    "What for?"

    "So they... whatever." She shrugged, huffing one more time before sporting a smile. "Then let''s do it. But I''m warning you, Abel. Don''t throw me midair only to catch me beforending."

    Abel frowned secretly, which made her narrow her eyes suspiciously.

    "I can''t believe you." She shook her head in dismay, figuring out he had such ns.

    "Darling, you are using me unjustly."

    "No, darling. I am not." Aries clicked her tongue before grabbing her nightdress and slipping her head and arms inside it.

    The two of them idled as Abel squeezed himself to her like a cat. Although Aries was slightly annoyed, she didn''t have the heart to get annoyed that long. So in the end, theyy on the bed, killing time in each other''s embrace while the night fell deeper.

 Chapter 450 Nothing But A Speck Of Dust

    Once everyone was fast asleep, Abel and Aries were already preparing for their silent departure. Standing in the middle of the chamber, she watched him tie the drawstrings of her cloak in front of her.

    "All done." Abel smiled triumphantly and then offered his hand for her to sp.

    Aries took a deep breath and sped his hand, eyes still on him. "I''m nervous."

    "You''re with me. You''ll be fine." He nodded reassuringly, guiding her towards the balcony. When they stepped foot outside, Abel and Aries looked at each other. Her grip around his hand tightened until they trembled.

    "Tell me once you''re ready, darling," he said, guiding her closer to the railing.

    Aries took deep breaths with her eyes closed. When she reopened her eyes, her grip around his hand loosened.

    "I''m ready," she remarked, making him smile.

    Abel then released her hand, walking behind her. In one swift move, Aries was already in his arms while she clutched his shoulder on instinct. Her heart thudded, watching him gaze down at her with a wide smile.

    One secondter, Aries heard a loud p and gigantic wings appeared behind him. Her breath hitched as her body flinched, gazing at those wings once more.

    "Shall we?"

    She snapped her eyes when his voice caressed her ears. Her throat bobbed. eyes shaking at him. Aries tried to calm her racing heart first with deep breaths. When she put her nervousness at bay, she nodded.

    "Let''s go," came out a whisper, witnessing how the corner of his lips stretched broader until his teeth were on disy.

    "Hold on tight, darling." Abel looked up, bending his knees. Meanwhile, Aries held on to him as if her life depended on him, making him chuckle.

    When his eyes glinted in bright red, cracks appeared on the surface of the balcony where he was standing. And before she knew it, Aries felt this strong wind pressing on her body. As a defense mechanism, Aries hid her face in his chest while clutching his shoulder even tighter.

    Soon, the wind grew slightly tamed as they flew at a steady altitude. But Aries kept her face buried in his chest, afraid that if she moved even the slightest, they would fall.

    "Darling, look." She heard his encouraging voice, but she didn''t move. "Your nervousness will be washed away."

    Abel smirked as he nced down at her, but she still didn''t move for the next two minutes. He didn''t urge her, but patiently wait until she could muster enough courage. It took her quite some time before taking a peek.

    Aries slowly opened one of her eyes, looking up at him briefly. Abel had his eyes ahead and then nced down upon sensing her gaze. As soon as their eyes met, he winked confidently, which somehow soothed her racing heart.

    "You''ll be fine," he reassured once again as he set his eyes ahead. "Think of this as riding a galloping horse. It''s fun in a way."

    At this point, Aries was still unaware of how high they were as she only looked at his face. She only realized they were flying so high when she saw that the night clouds were almost within her reach. Her eyes slowly dted, stunned at the clouds they simply passed by.

    Aries stretched her hand, forgetting her initial fears of falling, eyes on the cloud. But the clouds were farther than she expected, yet she still smiled giddily like a child.

    "Can we touch them?" she blurted out under her breath as her heart gradually eased up.<sub> </sub>

    "They don''t feel anything, darling." He chuckled. "It''s like a mist."

    Abel navigated his way to the nearest cloud where she could touch it. As he did so, he observed her and his heart felt full with the giddiness in her eyes. She extended her hand and her brows instantly rose in confusion.

    "They''re not as soft as I thought they were," she mumbled, a bit disappointed at this discovery, but it surely cemented the grin on his face. "I thought we can jump on them"

    "How silly."

    "But they look soft like cotton." Aries gazed up at him with a frown. "That''s a little disappointing."

    "It is." Another brief chuckle escaped his mouth. "I also thought it would be nice to build a house on one of them."

    "Really?"

    "Darling, even if I am a handsome gentleman now, I was once a child. Obviously, after discovering my wings, I thought it would be nice to live in the clouds. In that case, no one can bother me. I was very upset when I discovered clouds were simplyposed of vaporized water and it can only hold itself." He summarized his short story about the clouds and the dream of the young boy Abel.

    "If you live in the clouds, does that make you an angel?"

    "Darling, do you see any angel around?"

    "Mhm." She giggled. "He''s here, right in front of me."

    Abel arched a brow and gazed down at her. "Very smooth, darling. That healed the wounded heart of that boy. Thank you very much."

    "Pfft --!" Aries burst out inughter but still held on to him. This time, however, she was even more rxed after all that short talk.

    "It''s amazing," she breathed out after recovering from herughter, looking around at the silent sky. "I had never been this close to the sky."

    Aries then looked up and her eyes softened. "I didn''t think... it was higher than I could ever measure." Her lips curled up subtly.

    They were already high up in the sky, but the sky just seemed endless. Still, this was the closest she had been to it, and it was an amazing experience. After some time, she mustered enough courage to look down, and her pupils instantly dted. Her heart once again pounded against her chest, making her clutch his chest tighter.

    "Too... high," came out a nervous voice, seeing some houses and lights as tiny as ants. But the longer she looked, the fear and shock in her heart were reced with this strange phenomenon while seeing the world from a different perspective.

    "Soбн this is us, huh?" she whispered, eyes softening. "We''re just this small."

    "Mhm. We''re all just a tiny part of this world, darling," he hummed with a subtle smile, eyes ahead. "So it was silly to think one can rule the world. We are nothing but a speck of dust in the eyes of this world. The only time we are someone is in the eyes of those who mattered."

    Aries kept her eyes on the ground and hummed. "That''s right... but it is still amazing."

    "It is." He gazed down and at the same time, she looked up at him. They exchanged smiles before setting their eyes ahead while enjoying the wind and the serenity this altitude offered.

 Chapter 451 [Bonus Chapter]Allow Your Swords To Speak

    Before the sun break, everyone in the Maganti Empire had already been working busily, just like the previous days. The Maganti had been weing every new day and bidding the sun farewell without a king. For an empire asrge as the Maganti, having no official emperor would eventually be a problem.

    Ismael had been obviously selected as the next emperor not just by his birthright, but also because every side supported him. Starting from the church, the surviving nobles, and themon people. The only forces who were still reluctant in this discussion were the Valiente Group, as they believed Roman should be the emperor.

    And thus, it was today''s agenda in the royal court that was held in a private chancery where every important individual in the empire had gathered. However, since Roman had attended for the first time after many meetings of absence, a piece of news rattled most of them except the third prince.

    "Your Highness..." called a member of the Valiente Group, who was also originally a nobleman before Joaquin''s order to silence him. "What are you...?"

    "That is my decision." Roman, who still wore his full armor from head to toe, spoke with resolution. "That is myst order to the members of the Valiente. Since this beautiful country is weing a merciful emperor, there is no need for the Valiente to exist."

    The seventh prince scanned the faces around the wooden oval table. His eyes lingered longer on Ismael on the end of the table, before shifting his attention to the members of the rebel group present in this room.

    "I am stepping down and dissolving the group. Valiente was formed to fight for our freedom and resist the oppressors. We had already achieved our goal, and continuing its existence with the rise of the new emperor will eventually create a problem." Roman nted his hand on the table and rose from his seat. "I... we had fought side by side with the church and the third prince. And even if I am retiring, I asked you to continue to assist His Majesty and aim for the goodness of ournd and people."

    Roman slowly faced Ismael''s direction, cing his fist across his chest, and then bowed.

    "I acknowledge Ismael, the third prince, as the emperor of this great country, and wish nothing but sess in his governance," he announced, something Roman needed to do to show his support to his brother. "May you bring peace in thisnd and make it great again."

    Ismael pressed his lips into a thin line and nodded. He had expected this from Roman, not because he asked him to. If anything, Ismael also agreed with the Valiente group. That was why there hadn''t been someone who ascend the throne until now because of that. However, Roman had already told him he wanted to retire even before the revolt.

    Actually, Roman wanted to be announced dead as part of their deal so he could live a new life following Violet. But that was deemed impossible with the Valiente forces, and their capability to start a problem with Ismael''s session to the throne. That was why the seventh prince joined this meeting for thest time and do his duty as the royalty and the head of the rebel group.<sub> </sub>

    After Roman expressed his support to Ismael, he faced everyone carrying a dignified air around him. Some of his men were still stunned by the news of his retirement and the disbandment of the group.

    "If anyone objects to this order, then I will deem it as treason." He ced his hand on the sword clinging to his side. "Anyone who is courageous enough, then allow your swords to speak."

    Silence followed Roman''s remarks while he exchanged looks with his men in the rebel group. They might be audacious towards the third prince and Ismael had practiced maximum tolerance. However, they respected Roman, and his words were absolute.

    In the end, those who initially opposed Ismael''s session to the throne could only back down and follow Roman''s wishes. After all, Roman was right. The Valiente Group has formed because of the royal family''s exploitation of the farmers. It grew into arge organization because of Joaquin''s wicked retaliations. But now that this country was weing a new king, the name Valiente must cease to exist along with the previous monarch.

    "The third prince is a good man," Roman reassured after a minute of silence, watching his people raise their heads at him. "I trust him. Give him a chance. Open up your hearts to him, and you will understand why I, the church, and the people support him in inheriting the crown."

    The seventh prince nodded encouragingly at his people, confident these people would soon understand what was special about Ismael. He then turned to Ismael and tilted his head down, sitting back on his chair to continue the meeting, as this was thest time he would sit with them.

    Modesto, who was sitting on Ismael''s right, cleared his throat. "Now that was settled, we can hold the session of the throne in two days. For thest time, I asked if anyone objects to this decision?" he looked around, waiting for anyone to raise any objections. When a minute had passed with nothing but silence, he rocked his head.

    "Then, that''s settled." Modesto then set his eyes on Ismael. "Your Majesty, was there anything you would like to say?"

    "There is." Ismael slowly rose to his seat, his eyes glossing over everyone. "I am aware actions speak louder than words, but I vowed to put the people of the Maganti Empire before myself. I mayck on many things, but what I do notck is my beliefs about this country''s people."

    "However, there is only one thing I would like to hear your approval of and I sincerely wished to get everyone''s support on this." He paused to allow them to take everything in as this was a serious matter he needed before seeding the throne. However, just as his lips parted, a knock caressed his ears.

 Chapter 452 [Bonus Chapter]His Gift

    Ismael nced at the door and saw the knight guarding it, talking to the person on the other side. His brows furrowed when the knight nodded and approached the table. The knight stood several steps before bowing with his fist across his chest. He then approached Ismael''s spot to whisper the news he received.

    "Your Highness, Her Royal Highness had gone missing and everyone in the Jade Pce is in chaos," reported the knight in a low yet panicking voice. Meanwhile, Ismael furrowed his brows before the knight continued. "I will send a party to search the --"

    "No need." Ismael raised a hand, stopping the knight in the middle of his sentence. The knight looked confused, but Ismael just smiled encouragingly.

    "Tell everyone to stop searching. It''s about time for them to leave, after all." He breathed out, peeling his eyes from the knight to the men around the table. "Her Royal Highness had died fighting for the people of the Maganti Empire. A woman who took up her sword and fought as fiercely as a military man would. Her death wasn''t a loss, but it was her victory."

    "That is the story of the crown princess of the Land of Rikhill that everyone in the Maganti Empire and the future generation would hear." Ismael raised his chin. "That is the history will paint the crown princess Aries Aime Heathcliffe and not Danie Circe Vandran. And that is also the reason I would like to take the Land of Rikhill as an official state of Maganti."

    Ismael announced, which took everyone by surprise, but no one opposed it. History had always been written by the victors, and twisting it to rename the official name of the crown princess to her real one wasn''t distorting history. It was the truth.

    The Land of Rikhill had been subjected to abuse as Joaquin exploited thend''s resources to make the Maganti Empire wealthier. So, even if Ismael wanted to free that country, it would take centuries to rebuild it to what it originally was. No one could also tell if another empire ornd would try to conquer it, since letting the Land of Rikhill go was akin to letting the child explore the wild all alone.

    "This is a responsibility the Maganti must bear, and it is only fair to announce it as an official state," he continued solemnly. "And as such, I had already chosen the Grand Duke of Rikhill."

    Ismael paused once more, looking at their faces. Confusion dominated their faces except for Roman, whose face was hidden behind his metal helm, and Modesto, who had foreseen thising. The three exchanged gazes, nodding slightly before the third prince drew a breath.

    The side of Ismael''s lips curled up as his lips parted, dropping the name of the man he wanted to oversee thend of Rikhill. That man was the only person who could help in restoring that beautifulnd and bringing peace alongside the new emperor. Someone who carried the spirit of the Heathcliffe royal family, and someone who had always been acknowledged by the surviving people in thatnd.

    <strong>Curtis.</strong>

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Aries marveled at the beauty of flying with the love her of her life. It was more wonderful than she had expected, and she had never felt so at ease for a long time. And thus, she somehow fell asleep after hours in the sky, which was a little surprising. Throughout the night, Abel stayed silent, flying steadily in the same direction.

    When the sun started peeking and hit her face, Aries moaned. She moved, only to feel his arm tighten around her to keep her from falling. Aries slowly opened her eyes, blinking weakly, catching Abel''s face.

    "Good morning, Gorgeous," he greeted with a rasped voice, casting her a quick look.

    "Mor бк " her eyes popped open, freezing on the spot as realization dawned on her. Aries clutched his chest on instinct, looking around at the hazy sky which slightly concealed the sunshine.

    "We''re still here?" she gasped, eyes shaking at Abel.

    "Not for long." Abel jerked his chin ahead, making her turn her head. Aries narrowed her eyes to see through the morning haze across the valleys she hadn''t noticed.

    "We''re going down," Abel announced, and without waiting for her to respond, he sped up slightly as they make a descent. Aries clutched his chest at the speed, only to hear him chuckle and say, "Darling, look."<sub> </sub>

    Aries hesitated, but still mustered her courage to look ahead. As soon as she turned her head, thick clouds weed her eyes, and then as they passed through them, her eyes caught a beautiful meadow filled with different colors of wildflowers weing the morning sun. Her mouth fell ajar as her heart tightened, making her neck turn taunt.

    "That..." her throat bobbed, trying to swallow the tension building up in her throat, but to no avail. She felt suffocated, bringing tears to the corner of her eyes. Before she knew it, Abelnded on the end of the meadow with her still in his arms.

    "This..." came out another unfinished sentence, tears shining in her eyes. When she looked at up him, Abel offered her a gentle smile before putting her down. She kept her eyes on him even when her feet stood on the grass, unable to stop the tears from falling to her side, ignoring the quick absence of his wings.

    Abel brushed her cheek with his thumb, smiling subtly. "I cannot bring them all back to life," he whispered, knowing she wanted to hear some sort of exnation.

    "That is why..." he snapped his eyes and set them at the meadow ahead. "... I thought it would be nice if they at least live in some way."

    Aries chewed her lower lip as she faced the direction he was looking. Tears continued to flood her face, balling her hand into a first.

    In this same spot she was standing on, was almost the same spot where she, the crown princess, had fallen. And this beautiful meadow... was the ridge where everyone lost their lives in thest war they fought. Thest time she had seen this ce was filled with smoke and fire, bodies piling up, and blood painting the ground red.

    But now, it was bright, beautiful, and peaceful. Every flower where they bloomed beautifully was exactly the spot where her people died, as if their blood nted a seed in the ground. Even though she was stunned, Aries remembered thatst picture in her head as if it had happened just yesterday, allowing him to see it in her nightmares.

    Aries looked down and covered her lips with the back of her hand, seeing another flower blooming near her feet. The sight of the fresh flower slowly reced the memory of Davien''s head rolling to her feet.

    "Davienбн" came out a shaking voice, huping.

    "Come." Aries looked at the palm beside her and then raised her head to see his charming smile that was brighter than the morning sun. "Let''s visit them... your family and my inws. I would like to pay my respect to them."

    Her eyes brimmed with tears, blurring her vision. But she still reached for his hand, allowing him to take her to the newly grown trees with each of them having names and sheltering valuable pieces representing each member of the royal family: starting from the king and his ne belonging to his wife, Davien with his sword, ric and the piece of parchment where her original music piece was written, and so on.

    Standing before the small trees, Aries dropped to her knees. She couldn''t believe it. Never in her life had she ever thought she''d see themбн more alive than ever. Although they were trees, they were breathing and still giving beauty to thisnd they were all born and died.

    "Ahбн" she clutched her chest, her other hand on the grass. "Fatherбн Davienбн ricбн I''m back."

    Only then did Aries realize sheбн had never grieved about their deaths. The moment they lost the war, Joaquin also took away her freedom to grieve as he was too busy tormenting her. But now, it was like a thornбн no, an entire pipe that was stuck in her heart was pulled out.

    Aries cried and cried. Althoughte, she had finally had the liberty to cry and grieve, to express the sadness that she had channeled into anger. As she grieved, Abel stood silently to her side and looked at the trees he himself nted and the valuables he personally retrieved a year back after visiting the Maganti for the first time.

    ''I kept my promise,'' he whispered, talking to the dead to whom he gave his word. ''You will all witness her wedding.''

 Chapter 453 He Didnt Have A Chance

    Abel stood still on his spot, ncing down to his side where Aries was crying her heart out. He arched a brow and nced to the other side, tilting his head at the person yelling in a hushed voice.

    ''Huh? What is he doing now?'' he wondered, watching Conan mouth something.

    "Console her!!" Conan yelled in a hushed voice so as to not interrupt Aries''s moment. He ruffled his hair in irritation when Abel just cocked his head to the side, forcing Conan to hug himself to show Abel what he needed to do at this moment.

    "Hug her!" he mouthed whilst hugging the air. "And act as her angel! This is your time to make her crazy in love with you!"

    While Conan was embracing the air and doing all this sort of action, the people trekking on the incline from behind him could not help but scrunch their noses up.

    ''What is he on about now?'' Dexter wondered in dismay, taking an enormous step to the ascent of the ridge.

    ''I guess she had already seen it.'' Curtis was walking not far away from Dexter and also saw Conan acting funny. He then nced to his side and caught Climaco taking giant steps without a word. It didn''t take long when the three of them reached Conan''s vantage point and saw Abel and Aries not far away.

    Curtis'' eyes instantly softened seeing that Aries was weeping in front of the newly grown trees. His lips curled up subtly. He had already expected this much reaction from her because he also had the same reaction. Although Curtis managed to keep it a secret because he didn''t have an audience.

    "When did he even get the time?" Dexter murmured, looking around the meadow on this ridge. He heard this was the battlefield where the people of Rikhill weed the soldiers of the Maganti Empire to not damage their kingdom. If this was originally a battlefield, Dexter was certain Abel had prepared this ce for this very day for at least a year now.

    "His Majesty went straight here when he visited the Maganti Empire a year ago." A raven suddenlynded on Dexter''s shoulder, and his voice was heard in their heads. Curtis and Climaco''s eyes slightly dted, turning their attention to the raven talking in their heads.

    "And since he had already stolen the identity of Baron Albe, he used it to bribe the ones in charge at Rikhill. I think one way or another, he secretly controls it now since the ves didn''t seem as terrible as a year ago," Morro added as he had flown a few times around the Land of Rikhill to see the situation. "At least they weren''t dying in the mines out of hunger. Mining and agriculture had be the primary source of ie in this ce and the people were being paid for it."

    "Where did he get the money?" asked Dexter. It might''ve sounded stupid since Abel was an emperor and using the royal treasury to sustain a country was easy, but that would surely be something the marquess would hear since it could''ve affected Haimirich in a way.

    "He sold opium," Morro kept his answer short, but Dexter was quick enough to grasp the entire case. Thetter gazed at Abel, who didn''t know how to console Aries as he just kept standing whilst watching her cry.

    In the Marquess''s mind, Abel was surely resourceful. The Emperor of Haimirich was undoubtedly a cunning and wise man. To sustain thend of Rikhill, Abel didn''t need to use the wealth of Haimirich. Instead, he sold drugs to the Maganti Empire to corrupt its people, and use the profit he gained in this ce. Abel only needed to keep the flow of money in doing all illegal trades with the Maganti without care if all his goods would eventually kill the said empire.

    "Surely, that crown prince is foolish," Dexter murmured and shook his head. "He was poisoning his own country and slowly reviving thend he ruined himself. Funny enough, he didn''t know about it. The downfall of that regime is his own doing."

    Curtis nced at Dexter and the raven on his shoulder and let out a shallow breath. He peeled his eyes away from them to Abel.<sub> </sub>

    "He didn''t even have a chance," he chimed in under his breath, fixating his eyes on Abel''s figure. "Even if he fights him on equal footing, Joaquin would still lose," бк because at the end of the day, Curtis believed Abel wasn''t just a monstrous vampire to be reckoned with, but the emperor of Haimirich was respected by his people, despite being a tyrant for a reason aside from fear.

    Abel wasn''t just strong, he was also smart with strategic decisions worthy of respect. He didn''t need to force things to make it work. He would make it work on its own with a perfectly devised n.

    "Argh... this is so frustrating!" Curtis'' train of thought halted when Conan grumbled in frustration. "Why do I even need to coach him?"

    "Because you''re afraid Lady Aries might change her mind and tell him she wants to stay in here?" Morro replied, speaking the words Conan had utteredst night.

    "Ugh..." Conan sped his hair in distress, expecting the doomsday of Haimirich. Not that leaving Haimirich was that much of a problem, but he still had his valuable things there! If Abel decided to reside in Rikhill now, of all time, Conan would be too busy and he wouldn''t have time to retrieve his valuable things from the Haimirich Empire.

    Curtis chuckled upon hearing their dilemma, but at this point, he somehow got used to them. So, he shifted his attention to Aries and Abel. Aries was already sitting up, wiping her tears while Abel stood still on his spot.

    "Darling, do you need a hug?" Abel asked out of in curiosity, blinking with genuine wonder in his eyes. It wasn''t that he didn''t understand Conan''s coaching, but for him, he should let Aries cry her heart out. His wife had bottled everything in for years, and he deemed Conan''s idea unnecessary.

    Aries shook her head as she wiped her eyes with the bottom of her palm. When she looked up, her eyes were already swollen, but the luster in them illuminated relief.

    "Help me stand," came out a rasped a voice from all that crying, stretching her hand up to him. Abel unhesitatingly held her hand and pulled her up with care until she was back on her feet. But he didn''t let her hand go and simply held her while staring into her eyes.

    "They''re swollen." He pointed out, using his thumb to wipe the lingering tears from the corner of her eye. "I hope it at least made you feel better."

    She nodded. "A lot better, yes."

    "d to hear that."

    Aries squeezed his hand mildly and shed him a subtle smile. Looking at him, she couldn''t express how much she loved him. There were many questions in her head regarding how did this ridge turn out to be a beautiful ce, but right now, that wasn''t important.

    "Come," she urged gently, tugging his hand and tipping her head in the trees'' direction. "I''ll introduce you to my family. I can''t wait to brag about my husband."

 Chapter 454 She Couldnt Ask For More

    Aries and Abel paid respect to the grave of her family in silence. It wasn''t like she had to introduce Abel as if they could talk back, but rather, the two of them simply performed the customary greeting by doing a deep curtsy in silence. After the quick ceremonious curtsy, both of them stood in front of the tree where her father''s remainsy.

    Both of them didn''t speak a word, allowing the morning breeze to blow past them. They stood side by side, holding her hand in front of her, while Abel kept his hand inside his pocket. Although his eyes were set ahead, Abel had been observing her from the corner of his eyes.

    "Thank you, Abel." The side of her lips curled up as her eyes softened, staring at the newly grown trees before them. She thought she had already emptied her eyes of tears, but she could feel her eyes heat once again. Her throat bobbed after gulping the building tension in her throat.

    "You have no idea how this means to me," she continued, clearing her throat so her voice won''t crack. "Thest time I was here... the scene it left in me haunted me every single night. But now, I... I am thankful to be back."

    Aries focused her eyes on the valuable pieces mounted on the trunk and smiled subtly. "I really am thankful to be back."

    Silence fell on their shoulder as the wind whispered in their ear. She kept her eyes on the trees and her smile never left her face. She wanted to savor this moment and carefully digest that her family''s remains weren''t just thrown away somewhere to rot.

    "Thank you for bringing them back home." She slowly turned on her heel to face him squarely. "This is the most beautiful gift I will forever cherish."

    Aries raised her hand between them, which Abel sped silently. Her eyes softened with affection, appreciation, and adoration.

    "My family... had always wondered what sort of man could handle a piece of work such as myself," she confessed, squeezing his hand mildly as she recalled Princess Aries''s life. "They were always worried that with my personality, marriage would be a problem. Davien even thought I would build a harem once I became the ruler of this beautifulnd."

    "Hah... good thing Rikhill fell."

    Aries chuckled at his insensitive remarks, but she was almost used to it. Abel would always be Abel, and he would say things that crossed his head without a filter. But that was his charms. He might be brutally honest, but at least he never lied just to make him appear good.

    "But I''m proud that I returned in here after years with the love of my life," she continued with a soft tone, staring into those beguiling pair of crimson that reflected her with so much beauty and elegance. Aries had never seen herself as beautiful, and what happened to her in the Maganti Empire crushed her sense of self-value.

    But in his eyes, she... was the only one in them. In those intimidating pairs of deep crimson eyes, she was the most beautiful, the most valuable, and the most loved.

    "I can never imagine a life without you, Abel. And before them, I promised to love you to the best I can." Aries drew a breath as she faced the trees of life where her family rested. "I''m now in good hands, Papa. Davien. ric..."

    "You do not need to worry about me anymore," she continued under her breath, holding Abel''s hand tightly. "I am now happy and content. I... never thought I would be this happy in this life ever again, but I am. Finally."

    "I hope you will now have your peace." Her eyes softened as she smiled at the warm breeze that blew past her ears. Aries remained silent for minutes before she faced Abel. He had been quiet, although he did all that ceremony in paying respect to her family.

    Even when they were facing each other once again, Abel remained silent. He only kept his eyes on her beautiful face, smiling subtly at the stunning luster in her eyes. For minutes, the two of them just stared at each other with smiles on their faces, not saying a word, and allowing their hearts to speak to each other at every beat. Not that they had nothing to say anymore, but their hearts already knew the unspoken sentiments pooling in their eyes.

    They were happy, content, and madly, deeply in love.

    "Wait!!!" the serene atmosphere suddenly broke as Conan''s frantic voice erupted in the silent ridge. Both Aries and Abel turned in Conan''s direction, making her brows furrow.

    "They''re here?" she murmured, only to realize this was what Abel meant when he said they disembarked before them to another ce.

    "Dearest Conan, are you aware you are interrupting our beautiful moment?" asked Abel when Conan reached them. "I was about to kiss her."

    "Your Majesty! Didn''t you say you want to get married?! Are we skipping steps again?"

    "But we didn''t fulfill our marital duties yet."<sub> </sub>

    Conan scrunched his nose up as he looked at Abel from head to toe in dismay. Hadn''t fulfilled their marital duties? Then what did they call all those days and nights they spent locked up in the Rose Pce?!

    "We''re getting married?" Aries queried, raising her brows to catch Conan''s attention. Knowing this man, he would eventually get sidetracked and would end up nagging Abel like he had always done.

    "Yes! His Majesty wanted two weddings!" Conan raised two fingers at her excitedly, as if he didn''tin about it during the preparation. "One is meant for you to rece all the bad things that happened to you in that garbage of an empire, and then another one where the bride''s family is present!"

    "Oh..." Aries looked back at Abel and saw him shrug.

    "Two weddings means two wedding nights."

    She chuckled and then shifted her attention to Conan. "You''ve worked hard, Sir Conan. Thank you."

    "Heh." Conan rubbed his finger under his nose, grinning arrogantly.

    "Then, shall we..." she trailed off when Conan whisked out a gand from his suit and ced it on top of her head. Aries touched it and looked back at him, wide-eyed.

    "The children made it for you," exined Conan, pointing down to refer to the people waiting at the foot of this hill. Her lips curled up once more and faced Abel.

    "What do you think?" she asked with a smile.

    "Lovely." His eyelids drooped, touching the gand on top of her head. Aries giggled and squeezed his hand once again.

    "I do," this time, Aries already uttered her ''I do,'' even before Conan could start the quick ceremony of their second union.

    "I do," Abel replied with a smirk.

    "Wait, wait! I haven''t --" Conan gasped in horror when Abel bent over and cupped her face to im her lips.

    "I love you." Aries grinned against his lips, and he chuckled into her mouth before a deep voice slipped past his mouth, saying, "I love you more."

    "Forever," she added, and he continued with, "and ever."

    When Aries and Abel drew their head back, Conan''s face was aghast. Not only did the two of them kiss right in front of him whilst professing their undying love, but they also ignored his efforts to facilitate a proper wedding!

    "Just proimed them husband and wife, will you?" Dexter''s voice erupted, catching Aries''s attention. He was already marchingzily in their direction with Curtis and Climaco.

    "What?!" Conan harrumphed angrily, only to jump when a figure slinked out behind the king''s tree. "What the бк have you always been there?!"

    Seeing that Isaiah had been hiding behind the tree, Curtis'' face suddenly froze. However, the only person who noticed his expression was Morro and Climaco.

    As Conan''s blood pressure spiked steadily, venting his anger toward Dexter and Isaiah, Aries couldn''t help but chuckle. She decided to ignore him and face Abel, and thetter had already shunned everything aside from her. They looked at each other''s eyes once again with affection and evesting love.

    Conan might be dissatisfied with the second wedding, but for the groom and bride, having them around in this ce where she lost everything, including herself, was enough to celebrate this win, this newfound love, purpose, family, and life. She couldn''t ask for more.

 Chapter 455 [Bonus Chapter] End Of Volume 2

    Apparently, because Conan had tons of money to splurge for the budget on Aries and Abel''s union, he nned to host a banquet of the century. Thanks to Ismael, who had sent a word about his n in taking the Land of Rikhill as an official state of the Maganti empire and it must be treated as one immediately, there were more things to celebrate about.

    Although the soldiers Ismael sent to assist thend of Rikhill hadn''t arrived yet, those officials who had been in charge of thend had already fled. The news of the revolt in the Maganti Empire and the fall of the evil crown prince had spread faster than anyone could catch up.

    All this time, during Aries''s recovery, Ismael had been working nonstop to put things in ce. And as such, everyone had also heard about Curtis, a captive from Rikhill, and his involvement in the revolt. Thus, he was rewarded with the title of the Grand Duke of Rikhill.

    Rikhill had fallen, but there were still who were left alive. For years, it had be a subject of abuse and very, working in the mines without pay. Only a year ago did things change when a mysterious man bribed every man in power and paid every worker in thend. Because of that, the iing Grand Duke wouldn''t have too much burden on the livelihood of thend and only had to maintain or make it greater than it had been.

    With all these thingsid on the table, Rikhill had been in a festive mood to celebrate the freedom of theirnd. Not just them, but all those smaller kingdoms who had fallen in the wicked oppression of the crown prince. Everyone was free and Ismael addressed every single one of them.

    The third prince wasn''t done yet. He still had a long way to go, but surely, everyone was expecting brighter days ahead.

    "Ismael... that man is quite surprising," Aries mumbled while watching the festival in the capital from the ridge with Abel under the beautiful sunset. Everyone left the ridge after Abel and Aries started kissing, so now it was just the two of them.

    "I didn''t think he would act this fast," she continued. Although the houses and lights in the capital of Rikhill looked as tiny as ants, she could feel everyone''s joyful cheers. Conan surely threw arge banquet, which every single one could enjoy.

    "Humanity''s growth had always been fast and amazing, darling." She turned her head to the side where Abel stood, seeing him staring in the same direction she was looking at previously. "The third prince had been through a lot, which he never told anyone. Growth is painful and he can''t grow within hisfort zone."

    Abel fluttered his thick, long eyshes ever so tenderly. "The third prince had been dragging himself out of hisfort zone since you stepped foot in that ce as the crown princess. And thus, he had grown a lot more than when he had ever in the past."

    "That right..." she rocked her head in understanding, watching the beautiful golden rays in the darkening sky. "He''ll be a good ruler."

    "He always had the qualities."

    "Have you always regarded him that high?"

    "Hmm... no. I just know he will eventually seed with or without your help," Abel crooned. "Or maybe not. But his spirit would always remain. Maybe he will fail, but someone who knew him and carried his will бк will seed."

    Aries let out a dry chuckle. "About Curtis..."

    "He will be fine." Aries cast Abel another look and watched him cast her a sidelong nce. "You already know he will be fine without me saying it."

    "Well..." she drew a deep breath and huffed it sharply. "Curtis had always been amazing. Had he turned to a vampire, though?"

    "No."

    Aries nced at him. "Then how did he recover from all that trauma?"<sub> </sub>

    "The people in Rikhill were amusingly unrelenting. Just like you, he held on to his sanity until the end. That crown prince had never won against your dearest friend, nor did he win against you." Abel shrugged without looking at her. "That is why the crown prince resorted to witchcraft to cripple him and turn him into a dog."

    "I see... so it''s all about witchcraft, huh?"

    "Isaiah undid the spell and healed him with my blood," he summarized how Curtis was now back to how he was before.

    "Lord Darkmore?" she gasped, a bit taken aback at this information.

    "Mhm."

    "Now that I think about it, there were many things I still don''t know..." she mumbled, facing Abel squarely. "Was Lord Darkmore a vampire as well?"

    "No," Abel smirked, facing her. "He is a warlock, darling."

    "A war... lock?"

    "Should I tell you how I met him?" his lips curled up as if he was about to say something very interesting, but Aries shook her head after a moment of contemtion. Aries reached for his other hand and smiled at him.

    "We have a very long way to reach Haimirich," she said, guiding his other hand to her cheek. "I''m not in a hurry to get to know everything in a day. For now, I would like to get to know and enjoy my husband, since that is the most important thing for me right now."

    He brushed her cheek with his thumb gently. "No problem." He winked and bent over, iming her lips under the warm sunset, creating a beautiful shadow of two people standing, kissing passionately as the sun bid the world its temporary goodbye.

    Today was thest day Aries had held onto the burdens of the past. Her pastбн that had always dragged her back like a force sucking her to the abyss, would no longer have power over her.

    In this ce where Princess Aries Aime Heathcliffe died, birthed Missus Aries Grimsbanne. Deep down, Aries was aware things wouldn''t be easy with the new realm she was about to step foot in, but that wasn''t her concern anymore. Because just as he said, they would be fine and they would figure things out together.

    Together, they would ovee all life''s challenges.

    That was the vow they would hold on to foreverбн and ever.

    <strong>бк END OF VOLUME 2 бк </strong>

    <strong>Note: </strong>There will be a few extra chapters before the opening of Volume III :) while the author prepares for volume 3 <3

 Chapter 456 Conans Dilemma

    "You don''t want to stay?"

    Aries looked to her left and smiled at Curtis. When the sun went down, she and Abel decided to join the banquet Conan threw. Everyone was already dancing, singing, drinking, andughing when they arrived. Hence, no one noticed them, which was their n. It was better if no one noticed them, but Curtis was sharp and dragged her with him for a stroll.

    "No." Aries looked ahead at the bustling street, walking down the pavement with her hand behind her. "Rikhill was once my home, but now... Abel is. I will follow him wherever he would go even if his destination is hell."

    His brows rose, studying her side profile momentarily. "Are you happy, Aime?"

    "Mhm... very much." Her smile grew gentle as her eyes shone elegantly. "Do you think I am being selfish? For choosing him over thisnd?"

    "Not at all. You''ve fought for thisnd your entire life. I don''t think anyone has the right to consider that is selfishness." Curtis cast her a quick side-eye, smiling encouragingly at her. "I am just worried about you and, if possible, I want to keep you safe in this ce."

    Aries chuckled as she looked ahead, inhaling the chill night breeze blowing past her face. Rikhill had changed since thest time she had seen it. It used to be a flourishing country with a small percentage of poverty. But now, the houses were rundown, and the ground has cracks everywhere. It looked like a poor country, but the festive air contradicted everything.

    Joaquin simply wanted to squeeze every ounce of resource in thisnd, so maintaining it was a waste of time. But that didn''t matter anymore. Aries was looking forward to how Curtis would make this country great again. Although it might not be as its own country, but as part of the Maganti Empire.

    "Time flies so fast, huh?" she whispered after some time. "Back in Maganti, I never imagined I would walk these streets again with a smile and relief in my heart. It feels like a dream."

    "Mhm... it really feels like a dream."

    Silence once again befell their shoulders, listening to the cheers the soft wind carried. This time, they didn''t speak for a long time as they reminisced about the previous years of their lives. Aries and Curtis had known each other since childhood and they watched each other grow; they knew each other''s worries, dreams, and secrets.

    They were present in each other''s life when this country was at its peak and even during its downfall. The past years weren''t easy for the two of them. Being captive prisoners of Joaquin didn''t give them the slightest sliver of hope, and thus, this freedom they were basking in still felt surreal.

    And without telling each other, this freedom slightly gave them these unspoken fears. What if this was all a dream? What if they were still in their cages and hallucinating to escape reality? They wouldn''t take it well if they woke up and realize that was the case.

    "Have you ever pinched yourself?" Curtis broke the prolonged silence between them and set his eyes on her, still strolling on the sidewalk. His question caused her to chuckle.

    Aries lowered her eyes and shook her head. "Many times, yes. Sometimes, I will bite my tongue until it''s bleeding... because it''s better to know if this was all a beautiful nightmare early on." She nced at him and smirk. "How about you? Have you ever pinched yourself?"

    "As many times as you did, I guess." He shrugged as he looked ahead. His lips stretched from ear to ear. "It''s hard to believe it, right? That we can now walk freely, Rikhill being free from his clutches, his downfall, and just... everything. Even though I wouldn''t wake up every time I pinch myself, it''ll take a lot of years before I will fully believe we''re free."<sub> </sub>

    "Mhm... but you''ll be fine Kurt," she crooned. "We''ll be fine for sure."

    "Like always." Curtis smiled subtly as his eyes softened upon hearing her call him how she usually called him in the past. "We''ll be fine."

    "Huh?"

    Both of them stopped upon reaching the square where they could see the familiar Conan with a group of people around a giant bonfire.

    "Bohoo...!" Conan wept with his hand covering his face. "I didn''t get married! How is this possible?!"

    Around Conan were local men who Conan befriended during the banquet. With them were Climaco and Morro, who were forced to watch over Conan as he had been drinking more than he should. Aside from those two, the locals sitting on the crates they took from somewhere were all grinning, allowing the host of this huge feast to vent his woes. And from what they all heard, Conan''s major dilemma was not being married at this age.

    "My lord, you shouldn''t cry so much for not having a wife!" one middle-aged man eximed so his voice could reach Conan''s ears. "Being married is one tough life! My wife always nags me and she has all the powers in our humble abode. She''ll kill me if I ever think of having fun alone."

    "That''s right. Once the honeymoon stage is over, it''s just stress! Pure stress!"

    "I disagree."

    "That''s because your wife is as holy as a nun! My wife will eat me alive!"

    "Your wife will kill you if she hears you right now."

    "Haha! Now that I think about it, I want to brag about my wife. She''s wonderful."

    "Oy! Doesn''t mean my wife scares me, I can''t brag about her, eh!?"

    "But isn''t that life is?" another man argued with booze in his hand. "Marriage is hard, but so is life! Having someone who loves you and has always been there for you through good and bad times is not easy, but at the same time, rewarding! That''s better than growing old alone."

    "That''s right! Wuu!!" Conan harrumphed, shedding actual tears as he agreed on the oldest man in their group. "I want to spend my life with someone beautiful and smart; someone I can kiss every morning and night, take a bath with, and exchange cheesy dialogue!!"

 Chapter 457 Conans Dilemma II

    "I want to spend my life with someone beautiful and smart; someone I can kiss every morning and night, take a bath with, and exchange cheesy dialogue!!"

    The men, including Morro and Climaco, looked at the intoxicated young man with a bit of surprise. Conan truly seemed sincere in getting married, and he sounded a little romantic, too. Some cringed, while others found it silly and cute.

    "Sir Conan, since this is a banquet you hosted yourself, should we hunt for your wife onest time before your doom?" Morro suggested when he couldn''t take this drama anymore.

    "That''s right. We should hook you up before we disembark. Onest try," Climaco added with a nod, ncing at the men around and seeing them nod as well. It seemed they all pitied Conan. Who wouldn''t, though? Conan had been crying a river.

    "What are your preferences, my young Lord? We might know someone," someone urged, eager to help this young man just so he would stop crying already.

    "Well..." Conan huped as he looked up to think about the preferences he was looking for. "I want someone who is beautiful бк I mean, not just beautiful, but absolutely beautiful! She should also be smart. No, I mean, she should be exceptionally intelligent! Her smile should be brighter than the sun and soothing as the moon. She also needs to have beautiful, clean nails!"

    Everyone who was listening to his list of what he was looking for in a woman could not help but let out a sigh as everyone realized one thing. The reason Conan couldn''t find the woman he was looking for was because of his unrealistic standard, and also, he was picky.

    Who would care about a woman''s fingernails?!

    The more they listened to Conan, the more they all realized this wouldn''t be sessful. Yet, they remained silent and listened to him, since that was the least they could do.

    "Also, it''ll be nice if she has green hair and green eyes too," Conan mumbled, causing Climaco''s brows to furrow, but not Morro.

    <strong>TAK!</strong>

    Everyone flinched when a crate suddenlynded in front of Conan. They moved their dted eyes to the person who plopped his butt down on the crate, watching the man rest his elbow on his spread leg, whilst facing Conan.

    "Beautiful, smart, and has clean fingernails." Abel ced his hand under his chin, and then pointed at his temple, before wiggling his fingers in front of him as if to prove something. "I also have green hair, my dearest Conan."

    His lips stretched from ear to ear, watching Conan gasp in horror. "I didn''t know I was your type, darling."

    "Kyah! Nightmare!" Conan squealed as the image of a faceless angel in his head shattered as it was reced with Abel''s devious face. However, even before he could stand and run away from this living nightmare, Abel nted his hand on his shoulder and sat him down.

    "Come on, dear. Tonight is your lucky day since your dream partnernded on yourp willingly." Abel grinned from ear to ear, while Conan cried for help while shaking his head. He then arched a brow and nced at the men, winking at them, which somehow sent a chill down their spine. Not because he looked scary, but they felt seduced!

    While Abel refocused his attention on Conan, telling him to start their romance, Climaco could not help but dart his eyes between the two. Now that he thought about it, everything Conan said about the woman in his dream was not just reckless mumbling. He sounded like he was simply describing one particr woman.

    "Does he... like Lady Aries?" he blurted out under his breath. His voice was low and only Morro heard him, eyes still at the weeping Conan, dissing the living nightmare named Abel.

    "That''s right. He likes Lady Aries," Morro answered, making Climaco look back at him with surprise.

    "What...?" Climaco''s pupils dted as horror crept into his heart. Conan liked Aries and saw her in a different light? Wasn''t he afraid of Abel? The woman he wanted was already the wife of someone who was so powerful, and Aries was madly in love with Abel. There was no chance for Conan.

    "No, it''s not like that," Morro added, seeing the horror stered on Climaco''s face as thetter jumped to a conclusion. "Sir Conan likes Lady Aries, but not that way."<sub> </sub>

    He then set his eyes on Abel, who was puckering his lips to scare Conan to great lengths. "It''s not what you think it is. You can say it''s more like Sir Conan admired Lady Aries so much that he based his standards on her."

    "Ahh..." Climaco rocked his head andughed awkwardly, finding himself silly at the conclusion he jumped to. He then let out a shallow breath, eyes back to Conan. Conan freed himself from Abel and ran away to cleanse his heart, soul, and eyes.

    ''What a group...'' he let out another sigh, watching Abelugh heartily while watching Conan flee. ''How did I end up being in here again...?''

    Climaco was just someone who got dragged by Morro along with Curtis. Curtis had a purpose being here, but Climaco didn''t have such a purpose. But for some reason, no one had ever asked him what he was doing in a ce where he believed he didn''t belong? Even Aries didn''t ask him what he was doing here, although he med it because she was too busy with Abel.

    "Will she..." he lowered his eyes and went silent, drowning in the thoughts that had always been in his head. As he thought more of it, he couldn''t help but raised his eyes at Abel. He flinched when the man nced back at him and smirked.

    "Don''t think too much, young knight." Abel wiggled his brows at him. "You''ll be fine."

    "Huh?"

    Abel winked at him but said nothing anymore. Instead, he shifted his attention to Morro, who was sitting on one crate near Climaco.

    "Morro, pass me a drink," he asked casually, which Morro didn''t mind as he got Abel a mug of booze before the emperor of Haimirich joined the local men to share their experience about marriage. After all, Abel was now a <strong>married man</strong>, and he just found a group whom he could rte with.

    "Excuse me, gentlemen. I heard you talking about your wives. You might not know, but I just got married to the most beautiful woman in the world. However, there might some things I might learn from you and your experience in this journey..."

    Watching this emperor indulge with the local men and actually mingled with them as if his status didn''t matter, Climaco could not help but be in awe. Now he realized why Aries fell for such a man. Abel might be cruel on a daily basis and a tyrant. But he was also someone who saw titles of little value. So long as he liked the person, it didn''t matter if the person was from the pits of hell or from the paradise up above. Abel would treat them the same.

    ''I wonder... if that is the reason the knights in Haimirich chose to be knights despite knowing they would serve a tyrant and not just because of other benefits.''

    <strong>****</strong>

    Meanwhile, in one of the narrow alleys.

    Dexter was leaning his back against the wall with his arms folded under his chest. Unlike the bustling square, silence reigned in his vantage point. His eyes glossed over the square before his gazended on Abel''s back. The emperor of Haimirich was drinking and chatting happily with the locals as if he had known them for a long time.

    "Since whenбн did he startughing with humans again?" he mumbled, fixating his eyes on Abel. "It''s been a very long time since heughed with them like that."

    Watching Abel now brought this memory into Dexter''s head from the days of yore. After some time, he looked up and caught someone sitting on top of the house.

    "Don''t be so bitter if he is happy," he raised his voice at Isaiah, even though he couldn''t see Isaiah''s face. "Forget about the Coven. You should dissolve that filthy gathering."

    Dexter sneered when Isaiah didn''t respond, shaking his head and then setting his eyes back to Abel. His eyes glinted as his eyes sharpened.

    "It wasбн indeed, a vacation," he mumbled, knowing once they returned to Haimirich, things would go back to how their life used to be. "Maybeбн worse than before."

 Chapter 458 Roman And Violet

    Meanwhile...

    "You''ll see her there." Ismael smiled at Roman, who was inside his chancery and just standing in front of the window. He studied the armor the seventh prince was still wearing from the desk where Ismael was leaning.

    Ismael folded his arms under his chest. "It''s funny how you hadn''t asked where I relocated her, nor did you ask about anything in particr. Actually, where were you all this time? You juste and go whenever you want to say something, but I can''t seem to find you anywhere when I need you."

    "You don''t have anything important to tell me. Why look for me?"

    "Tsk. Can you loosen up a bit, Rome?" Ismael snapped his tongue, looking at Roman from head to toe in disbelief. His brother was still just as cold as ever, even though everything quieted down already. "How can you seduce Violet if you''re always so uptight?"

    Roman didn''t speak as expected, keeping his eyes in a particr direction through the visor of his metal helm as if he could see through the thick darkness of the night. He had been wearing full armor for years, even in the imperial pce, so everyone was already used to him wearing it.

    Ismael sighed after a minute of not getting any reaction from him. "Seriously... nevermind." He huffed, giving up on having a casual conversation with him.

    ? "So you''re leaving?" asked Ismael solemnly, eyes still fixed on Roman''s side. "Once I get crowned, I can still give you a title andnd. You can take Violet and her children there instead of staying in anothernd."

    But to no avail. Ismael felt like talking to a wall because Roman wouldn''t budge.

    ''To be honest? He and Violet suit each other,'' Ismael thought upon recalling one of Violet''s words during theirst meeting. ''It''s still a mystery to me how the hell Violet put up with that Carlos. I don''t want to talk about the dead. But... is he seriously leaving Maganti for Haimirich?''

    When the thought crossed Ismael''s head, his eyes slowly dted at the sudden realization. He held his breath as his heart thudded against his ribcage, swallowing down a mouthful of air.

    "Rome, you..."

    "Yes." Roman replied after his long silence. His eyes underneath his visor flickered with bitterness as his jaw tightened. "I am, Your Majesty. I am no longer Roman Imperial, but a no name creature of the night."

    "What...?"

    "I can stay or run away as far away as possible," Roman continued without ever casting Ismael a look. "But that is impossible when my blood yearned to be by his side. How can I? When the only path I would want to take now is to stand on his back and be part of his greatness?"

    Silence befell their shoulders after Roman''s remarks. Ismael''s lips were drawn in a thin line, feeling this desire in Roman''s voice with a tinge of bitterness. Perhaps it was the new blood running through Roman''s veins or something he was still in denial off. Either way, Ismael understood vampires were different from human бк not much, but they were different.

    Roman took a deep breath and faced Ismael. "I still believe you will rule this country well, Your Majesty. I really do."<sub> </sub>

    The two of them stared at each other silently before Roman faced the window once again. Thetter approached it and opened it, making Ismael''s brows to furrow. Without a word or giving the third prince a look, Roman jumped out of it.

    "Oy! Don''t kill yourse бк"

    Ismael immediately sprung up in surprised, sprinting towards the open window. But when he looked over, his brows creased. There was no sign of Roman anywhere.

    "Wowбн" he mumbled, blinking countless times as he scanned the ground from this level. "бн surely, vampires are different. Did hend or what? He could''ve at least given his brother a farewell hug or something. Morro even gave me a hug бк tsk. Why am I being so emotional?"

    Ismaelughed and shook his head, wiping his eyes with the back of his fist. When he managed to stop himself from shedding a tear, Ismael inhaled the night breeze and closed his eyes. A subtle smile dominated his face the second he reopened his eyes ever so tenderly.

    "It was an unpredictable monthsбн" he whispered, looking up at the night sky with a smile. "I had lost a lot during those times and nearly lost my mind, butбн it was worth it."

    At the end of the day, Ismael learned a lot from the visitors that turned this rotten empire upside down. And he would surely carry the things he learned from the past several months to his deathbed.

    "Romeбн you are in good hands. That man might be a little too muchбн but his people were proof your gut feeling is correct," he added under his breath. "I don''t think it''s just the new blood in your veins, but your heart as a knight to serve someone as great as him. May we all have great lives ahead."

    <strong>******</strong>

    Violet was standing on the balcony of the estate Ismael bought for her. At this point, it was almost like she became Ismael''s mistress, but Violet didn''t mind what other people would think about her. For as long as her children and her people were safe, that was all that mattered.

    "So theyбн seeded, huh?" she whispered, smiling while looking up at the moon. She hugged herself under the shawl around her.

    Just an hour ago, she received a letter from Ismael telling her about the general details of the revolt and how it turned out. But what truly relieved her was that Ismael was kind enough to reassure her Roman was safe.

    "I bet they were all busy," she breathed out, inhaling the night breeze with a smile. "And I guess we won''t have to stay here for long."

    Violet looked down and chuckled, knowing they were now free of fear. Joaquin had fallen, so there were no more peopleing after her. She and her children could now start anew, just as nned.

    ''I should start packing,'' she told herself, turning on her heel to return to her room. However, just as she held on the knob, Violet stopped upon hearing this faint thud from behind her. Her eyes fell on her feet and caught a shadow stretching to her.

 Chapter 459 Roman And Violet II

    Violet instantly froze at the presence she felt behind her. She took a deep breath, twisting her neck and it moved like a rusting metal to confirm she was simply seeing things. However, she instantly caught a figure in the corner of her eyes, only to feel relief at getting a full glimpse of the person.

    "Your Highness," she whispered, instantly recognizing the man underneath the full armor. The moonlight glinted on his metal helm, and she heaved a sigh of relief as if reliving a day she fondly recalled in her memory.

    "What are you бк I mean, how...?" her brows rose, looking around the balcony. How did Roman jump in here? Although the balcony wasn''t that high, it was still a challenge.

    While Violet was scanning the railing to find any trace of adder, Roman was studying her behind the visor of his helm affectionately. His lips curled up subtly, seeing that she seemed well all this time while the Maganti Empire was in chaos.

    ''Princess Violet...'' he called in his head, watching her snap her beautiful eyes at him. His heart softened when she smiled warmly at him.

    "It doesn''t matter how you got here," she said, breaking the stillness in the air with her kind voice. "How are you, Your Highness? You must''ve had an arduous journey to reach here when things just ended in the Maganti Empire."

    Violet tilted her head to the side when she received nothing from him. If she didn''t know this was Roman, she would be very rmed. However, even without seeing his face, Violet was certain this was definitely him. Roman just had this distinct aura he gave off to her.

    "Why don''t youe in, Your Highness? The wind is growing colder," she continued, keeping her warm smile despite not getting any response or reaction from him. However, she could feel his gaze behind that visor.

    When another minuted had passed and Roman still didn''t respond to her invitation, Violet drew a deep breath. She was already used to Roman''s silence, so she turned and reached for the doorknob. Roman would surely follow her if she came in.

    However, Violet had just opened the door slightly when she halted at the words she barely heard. Her brows creased, looking back at him while tilting her head to the side.

    "I like you." Her breath hitched when Roman repeated louder. "From back then, I had always liked you. I liked you so much, so I asked for my father''s permission to get married. But s, Carlos... hah. I was a step behind my brother."

    "Your Highness..." Violet called under her breath, in disbelief at what she was hearing. There was no way Roman would spew all this just like that. "Are you alright?"

    Instead of being moved or the sort, she immediately took a step towards him to check his temperature. Much to her dismay, as soon as she took a step, Roman stepped back.

    "Your Highness, why...?" she breathed out, furrowing her brows in confusion at the clear invisible line he was drawing between them.

    "Please stay there, Princess." Bitterness flickered across his eyes, but he adamantly kept his heart still. "Please."

    "Your Highness, I don''t understand why you were suddenly saying all this. If you''re not ill, then are you... drunk? You''re not gravely injured, are you?" Her voice shook as the worry in her eyes continued to increase. "You didn''t... travel in such a state toe in here, did you?"<sub> </sub>

    Roman shook his head mildly. "It''s not like that, Violet."

    "Are you sure?"

    "Yes."

    "Then, why..." she trailed off, swallowing down the tension in her throat. She gazed at him up and down carefully before her eyes settled on the visor that was hiding his face. "Why are you saying all of that if none of what I had mentioned is influencing you?"

    "Because it was the truth." Roman took a minute before confessing what he held back for years. "It was the truth, and I... am grateful that you asked me to stay that night."

    "I had been thinking about that time all this time, wondering what could''ve happened if I be selfish and stayed by your side? Not just that, but I had also been thinking if we would have a different life if I didn''t cower back then and fought for you," he continued solemnly, expressing his heart for the first time as if he wouldn''t be able to express it in the future. "There were times I would paint a better scenario if I had decided differently during those times, but there were also times I would see a way worse conclusion."

    Roman chuckled bitterly. "But we can''t reverse the time just to see how things would y out, can we?"

    Violet pursed her lips into a thin line as she clutched her hand close to her chest. She didn''t say anything; she couldn''t.

    "That''s why I am saying all this now, because I do not want to regret this in the future," he added. "Before the revolt, I had a bit of a setback. I had to pay a huge price for it, and now I am still in debt, which I am willing to pay."

    "I''m truly grateful that you were worried about me, and at the same time, ashamed that I had burdened you. However, I cannot fulfill my promise." Roman lowered his eyes as his face contorted. "Ismael will take care of you and my nephews. You do not have to worry about anything. Just focus on living a better life now, Your Highness. There''s nothing you бк we should fear about now."

    "You''re leaving?" Violet''s lips quivered, getting into the bottom line of this sudden confession. It was obvious. This was his way of bidding her farewell, and it sounded like they would never meet again. Roman only tilted his head down, but that was enough for her to get the answer she sought.

    "Why?" she murmured. "Why are you leaving? Where? No, I mean, what sort of debt do you need to pay?"

    "It is... something to preserve the little honor I still have."

    Violet held her breath until her neck turned taut. "Then why... would you say all that if you''re leaving? Isn''t that a little selfish, Your Highness? After all this time... you kept silent. You didn''t say a word, nor did you get credit for all the help you had given me. Why would you confess, saying you like me, only to announce you are going far away? Why, Your Highness? I can''t understand."

 Chapter 460 [Bonus Chapter]Roman And Violet III

    "Then why... would you say all that if you''re leaving? Isn''t that a little selfish, Your Highness? After all this time... you kept silent. You didn''t say a word, nor did you get credit for all the help you had given me. Why would you confess, saying you like me, only to announce you are going far away? Why, Your Highness? I can''t understand."

    Tears pooled in Violet''s eyes, but thanks to all the crying she had shed for the past month, she was able to hold back her tears. Her eyes gleamed with rity, but Roman chose to stay silent.

    ? "I know you do not owe me an exnation... maybe. But at least, allow me to cook you something nice before you go." Violet forced a smile on her face, holding her hand behind her to hide their tremor. "Please. I insist."

    His throat bobbed, watching her try her best not to pry despite that her clear eyes showed intrigued. He narrowed his eyes, hearing the rush in her blood, which Violet managed to hide with that smile of hers.

    ''She''s always like this,'' he thought. ''Even in the past, she hides everything with her smile.''

    "Your Highness?" she called once more when a minute had passed, but Roman stayed motionless. "Shall we?"

    "I can''t." His voice was firm but gentle. "I just came to bid you farewell, but I did not have any ns to stay longer."

    "Do you have other things to do?"

    "Yes."

    "Is бк is that so?"

    Roman lowered his head before he could see the disappointment in her eyes. "I sincerely wish you a good life, Your Highness. May you live your life to the fullest and full of happiness," he expressed, closing his eyes briefly.

    When he reopened his eyes, Roman already turned on his heel. His expression was solemn and his eyes shone determination. He told himself not to look back, knowing he would falter if he saw her expression. But just as Roman took a step toward the railing, he halted.

    "Don''t go," whispered Violet that barely reached her own ear. She gazed at his back softly, clutching her hand into a tight fist. "Don''t go, Rome."

    Bitterness filled her eyes when he didn''t move a muscle. It had always been like this, she thought. Roman would do anything for her; he would kill anyone if Violet told him to, but there was only one request he never fulfilled and that was for him to stay.

    "You always wish for my happiness, for my peace, and for my future. But why... don''t you wish for yourself some happiness, peace, and freedom, Rome?" she continued, getting a little overwhelmed at the tension in her chest. "If you are so concerned about my well-being, why are you going far away? For a debt you must pay? Then at least, tell me when will youe back."

    "This is so unfair, Rome. I had always thought and epted life is naturally unfair, but the more I think about it... we''re the one who are cruel. You and me... we''re too cruel and hard on ourselves. Why? Was it because we are convinced we do not deserve happiness? Or was it because we see ourselves with a little value that our sacrifices sounded more usible for others'' convenience?" her voice cracked, but her face showed resolution and anger. "I''m not saying we should rekindle the lost love between the young girl and the young prince. We''re too old for that, Rome. But... just like you, I wished for you to have a good life. Will your life be better if you go? Just tell me that, and I won''t ask anything anymore."<sub> </sub>

    "Tell me, Your Highness." Violet advanced in his direction and stopped at arm''s length. "Tell me you will be happier at leaving than staying, and I will respect that."

    As the night breeze whistled in their ears, silence reigned over them. Violet didn''t take her eyes off of his back until Roman slowly faced her. Her eyes nced at the metal helm covering his face, but she knew he was looking back at her solemnly.

    "I... was cursed," he confessed, giving an entirely different answer from her question. "I am not the Roman you once knew, Violet."

    "What... do you mean?"

    Roman bit his inner lower lips. "Literally."

    "I don''t understand, Rome."

    "You do not have to understand." Roman stiffened when she suddenly lurched and grabbed his gauntlet.

    Violet''s eyes lit up with a mix of anger and worry, gripping his metal tightly. "I don''t understand," she repeated, stressing each syble through her gritted teeth. "Make me understand, Rome. Don''t leave me with a question I might not get an answer in the future."

    Roman''s jaw tightened as he looked at her slender hand that was trembling while holding him. Knowing Violet, she wouldn''t let him go until he confess everything. She wasn''t always like this, but Roman had seen her stubbornness in the past, which she rarely showed in the imperial pce.

    "I''m no longer human," he confessed just as she wanted, raising his eyes, only to catch the confusion in her eyes бк just as expected. "Behind this armor... lies a monster. A monster who can suck out the life out of you, drink your blood straight from your veins, and hurt you. I had my neck snapped once by Joaquin, but here I am, standing before you."

    "Believe me or not, but that is the truth," he added. "Staying with you means putting you and your children at harm. I could barely control myself and quench my hunger for blood. Behind this helm, the person looking back at you is a person who wants to kill you for his own pleasure."

    Violet held her breath while processing the confession she forced out of him. Not human? A monster? He died once? It sounded impossible. However, she knew Roman, and there was not the slightest trace of deceit in his words. If anything, what she could detect in his tone was sincere authenticity.

    "If you understand that, then please let me go --"

    "Can I take it off?" she asked, stopping his sentence midway. Roman''s brows creased as he studied the determination in her eyes. "I want to see... the monster you are talking about, Rome."

 Chapter 461 [Bonus Chapter]Thank Abel

    "I want to see... the monster you are talking about, Rome."

    There was a long moment of silence between the two of them. Violet let a minute pass before raising her hands to his metal helm. She carefully studied his reaction, but when Roman didn''t react, she nted her hand on his metal helm. Her throat bobbed, hearing her big gulp in her ear as she slowly took it off from him.

    Violet''s lips parted as her heart thudded, seeing a pair of glowing red eyes looking back at her. His scar across his other eye was gone and all the little scars across his face. Aside from those distinct long fangs and his red eyes that were originally silver, Violet was in disbelief at how Roman seemed to have regained his youthful appearance.

    Roman had always worn his armor all day long, but she had seen him without it multiple times. It was not that Roman was that old, but the stress of taking part in every war put a toll on his appearance, making him look older than his age. But now... he looked the same way he looked several years ago.

    But Violet didn''t dwell on that for a long time as her eyes lingered on his eyes. Without thinking, she reached for his face and caressed the corner of his eye бк the one that he had lost during a duel against Carlos. While she was touching him, Roman was frozen on the spot. He couldn''t take his eyes off of her, trying to find the slightest trace of fear for what was in front of her.

    "You look handsome." His breath hitched when Violet smiled at him. "You''ve always been, Rome. I already told you many times you shouldn''t cover your face since there''s nothing to be ashamed of. The scars on your body were the proof of your victory in every war you took part in and the proof that you fought for something with all your heart."

    "I have... fangs," he breathed out with dted pupils, as if to remind her lest she didn''t see it properly, but to no avail. Violet wasn''t the least intimidated and looked at him the same. Deep in his heart, he sincerely hoped she would get scared if she saw his ''horrendous'' face. That would be easier for the both of them, but... she didn''t.

    "Mhm. They look sharp." She nodded.

    "You knew about vampires?"

    "No." Her smile stretched broader just a little bit while her eyes softened. "But even if you had a horn and a tail, all I see is the Roman I knew."

    Violet caressed his cheek tenderly. "You are such a liar, Rome. I don''t see anyone who wants to murder me, but all I see is someone who wants to protect me." Her expression softened even more, watching how those fiery eyes grew watery.

    "Can you say it again?" she asked soothingly. "Can you repeat what you had said previously while looking into my eyes?"

    Roman lowered his eyes as he held his breath. "Why... are you not scared?"

    "Do I need to?" she whispered bitterly. "How can I get scared of someone who looks even more terrified than I am?"

    Roman swallowed down the tension in his throat, raising his eyes, only to see her warm smile. Violet nodded encouragingly whilst brushing his cheek with her thumb.

    "I loved you even before I met you, and I held on to the warmth your letters brought to my heart, even when the person who stole your identity only brought me pain. I had always hoped that man... that man I had fallen in love with will return to how I had known him," Violet expressed bitterly, remembering how she bottled everything believing Carlos would eventually be the man who wrote all those poems and songs. Even when there was a point in her life she just wanted to hate her husband, she couldn''t because of those letters.

    Although Violet eventually fell in love with Carlos, it still hurt her that her husband deceived her from the beginning. She felt hurt and cheated after realizing the man who captured her heart wasn''t her husband, but someone who had been there for her.

    Their story was a tragic tale and Violet was aware they couldn''t bring back the lost time nor they could change the past.

    "Let''s not continue this tragic story, Rome," she urged under her breath. "We had suffered enough, and wanting to seek happiness isn''t selfish. We did our best to fight to protect those dear to us, but can we focus on ourselves now?"

    Her brows rose as her eyes gleamed with hope and anticipation. "We''re free. I don''t know how this curse works or what this vampire means. But...e with me, Rome. You''ve always told me to follow you whenever the situation in the imperial pce gets awry. Allow me to take you with me."<sub> </sub>

    "What?" his brows creased, surprised at her suggestion. "You''re leaving?"

    "The third prince had given me enough money to start anew and had protected us all this time. I am forever grateful to him, but... I had already told him I wouldn''t stay under his wing for long," Violet confessed the ns she had when she fled the Maganti Empire. "Come with us, Your Highness."

    "Where... are you going?" he inquired once more, noticing the excitement in her eyes.

    "Lady Aries''s brother, Marquess Vandran, had offered us shelter in Haimirich months ago. Haimirich Empire is a ce where women can stand on their own. I promised Lady Aries to see her there. She''ll protect us," Violet exined enthusiastically. "Her brother told us once the Maganti Empire had fallen, we can disembark to Haimirich since he said it would be safer if they were already there instead of us waiting for them to return."

    "..." Roman could only stare at Violet with nk eyes, only to remember how Abel called him a drama queen. How would Roman know Violet''s destination was Haimirich as well?! No one told him. For the obvious reason, Roman felt irked at those vampires for keeping him in the dark and letting him wallow in misery at the thought of not seeing Violet ever again.

    "Your Highness?" she called, snapping him back from his trance. Violet sighed, noticing how he was zoning out. "I trust Lady Aries, and I would like to follow her. She and the Marquess will protect us. So, you do not need to worry about anyoneing after you."

    His mouth opened and closed, wanting to tell her Haimirich was also his destination. But after studying her excited front, a shallow breath slipped past his lips.

    ''I don''t trust those people,'' he confessed in his head while his eyes sparkled with affection until his crimson eyes returned to their original grey color. ''But... I trust Lady Aries... a bit.''

    "Alright." He nodded, watching how her smile stretched broader, which nearly melted his heart to gas.

    "Then that''s settled." Violet heaved a sigh of relief.

    The two of them looked at each other tenderly until something tugged in Roman''s chest, telling him to stop being polite. Following this ''perverted'' instinct бк he believed a part of this new life as a vampire бк he bent over and tilted his head. Seeing how his facee closer, Violet held her breath before closing her eyes.

    ''You...'' Roman''s silver eyes instantly turned red, only to feel this pain in his chest restraining him from hurting her. And because of that pain, Roman, the man who had always held back, imed her lips for the first time after many years of loving her at arm''s length.

    <strong>****</strong>

    <strong>Back in Rikhill...</strong>

    "He should thank me," Abel mumbled, leaning his side against Aries, who was also leaning against a rundown house while they watched the celebration continue.

    "Who?" Aries nced at him with raised brows.

    "That prince."

    "For?"

    He arched a brow, casting her a knowing look. "For giving him some balls."

 Chapter 462 [Bonus Chapter]

    At dawn, the square in Rikhill had quieted down as everyone either went home or just passed out on the street. Conan was so generous for spending every dime of Aries and Abel''s wedding budget to treat everyone. Although the bride and groom themselves barely had drinks, they were satisfied to celebrate this special day with the people close to her heart.

    But despite that, it didn''t stop them from departing before the sun rises. At this time, some knights from the Maganti Ismael sent to assist Curtis and put proper order in the country had arrived using the fastest stallions before an entire unite.

    "Blegh!!!" Conan threw up to the side while Morro assisted him, making Aries, who was waiting for the carriage to arrive at the border they were in, shake her head.

    "I didn''t know vampires can get drunk," she mumbled, face distorting while Conan continued to throw up.

    "Not easily." She turned her attention to Abel standing just beside her. His eyes were also on Conan and Morro. Thetter was rubbing Conan''s back like a good person would do. "But yes, we get drunk and high if we take a lot."

    "Why was he even drinking and crying that much?" she whispered, setting her eyes back to Conan. "Shouldn''t we postpone our departure until he gets better?"

    "He put that upon himself." Suddenly, Dexter''s voice came from behind them, making her look back. He smiled as soon as their eyes met, pointing his thumb to the side. "I prepared a carriage for you."

    Aries gazed in the direction where Dexter pointed and smiled, seeing an approaching carriage with Climaco as the coachman. Next to it was Isaiah riding a horse, which didn''t surprise her anymore, since Isaiah had always ridden a horse wherever he would go as if he was just hiding a few in his pocket.

    "Where did you get such a luxurious carriage?" she inquired in interest.

    "I bought it on my way here, knowing you will make such a request." Dexter stopped at arm''s length from her and Abel. Thetter was still staring at Conan and Morro as if he was already devising a wicked n in his head.

    "You know me very well." She chuckled while facing Dexter squarely. Aries focused her eyes on the approaching carriage until it stopped behind Dexter. As soon as it halted, with thick dust ascending from behind it, Dexter raised a question.

    "Are you sure?" he inquired, making her brows raise.

    "Are you sure you are leaving this ce?" he repeated, jerking his chin at the town behind her.

    Aries looked back and smiled. When she faced Dexter again, she nodded unhesitatingly.

    "I can''t let you all migrate here, after all," she humored. "I will kill Abel if he starts his killing spree in this ce."

    "That is a very unhealthy mindset. I''m worried." Dexter could not help but let out a ''tch'' at her ridiculous reasoning. Did she just ept Abel''s craziness? Just like that?

    "Darling, you are aware I can hear you even when my brain is thinking how to make Conan drunk for fun, right?" Abel cast her a somber look, making her chuckle.

    "But that''s the truth. I''d rather let you massacre your own people than scare my people." She shrugged nonchntly before smiling at Dexter. "Let''s prepare."

    "Won''t you bid him farewell?"

    "Him?" she cocked her head to the side, blinking twice. "Ah. You mean Curtis?"

    "Who else?"

    "Well..." Aries looked back at thend of Rikhill and her smile softened. "No need for that. We already had timest night and... we promised to keep in touch. There''s no need for farewell. That''s not his style... nor mine."

    A proud smile dominated Dexter''s face while staring at her figure. He rocked his head and turned on his heel to check the carriage onest time. Meanwhile, Aries idled on the same spot while engraving the sight of Rikhill. As she did so, she unintentionally ignored Morro, who had carried Conan on his broad shoulders.

    "Onest time, darling." Aries snapped her eyes when Abel''s voice caressed her ears. She looked at him, only to see him staring at Rikhill. "Don''t you want to stay in thisnd? I''ll be good and won''t swat a fly."

    Her smile grew gentler as she set her eyes on the town behind them.

    "No," came out a whisper. "Rikhill will wee a new grand duke to move forward. Thest living member of the royal family will only cause problems in the future. I don''t want to get in the way."<sub> </sub>

    "I see..." Abel rocked his head in understanding.

    The two of them stayed idle for some time before Abel faced her.

    "Shall we?" he suggested, making her smile grow brighter.

    "Yes!"

    Abel chuckled at her enthusiasm, but instead of offering his hand for her to sp, he tipped his head in the carriage direction.

    "I''ll wait for you inside," he said while Aries caught the person why Abel didn''t offer his hand.

    "I won''t be long," she replied, ncing at Abel. Thetter shrugged and smirked confidently.

    "Of course you won''t." He winked before he sauntered off to the carriage, but went straight to Morro standing beside Isaiah''s steed.

    As Abel left her, Aries smiled at Climaco. The man ced his fist across his chest and bowed as a greeting, stopping several feet from her.

    "Your Royal Highness," called Climaco, only to get corrected by her.

    "I don''t have a title." She chuckled.

    Climaco didn''t take her joke seriously as he breathed out. Still, he stuttered when he was trying to ry his sentiments.

    "About this journey... I... IбкI want бк why had you not ask me why I am here?" he blurted out, saying the least important thing he had in his head instead of the original sentiments he wanted to tell her.

    "What do you mean?" Aries tilted her head to the side. "You are my knight, so obviously, you''re here because I''m here. Am I wrong?"

    "Pardon?" he looked up with nk eyes. Seeing his silly expression, Aries could not help but chuckle.

    "Weren''t you nning to ask me if you can serve me even in Haimirich? But you cannot follow right now because of your brothers in Maganti?" she raised her brows, catching his obvious answer on his flustered face. Aries advanced in his direction and stopped in front of him.

    "Don''t worry about them. Gertrude will take care of them; that''s why I told you to take her and your brothers to a safe ce." Her lips stretched broader as she tapped his biceps lightly. "Also, I don''t actually trust the people in Haimirich, so I need my own people lest the emperor wants to snap my neck."

    Aries giggled aloud before she sauntered off, leaving Climaco with gigantic question marks over his head.

    "What did she mean by that...?" he murmured, dragging his feet to follow the master, who turned him into a proper knight.

    Little did they know, as they disembarked to Haimirich, many more people бк friends and foes бк were journeying and had already arrived in the saidnd.

    <strong>*** This is thest extra chapter from volume 2. The next chapter will be the prologue of volume 3 ***</strong>

    <strong>[ Back in Haimirich]</strong>

    In the royal court of Haimirich, ministers from all factions gathered like usual to discuss the important matters of the empire. Everyone bore a solemn front, but their eyes were nk as if they were under a spell.

    "Today''s agenda is the renaming of Haimirich Empire toбн Chocte Empire," the minister that took Conan''s position in the royal court announced. "Now begins."

 Chapter 463 I Smell Bullshit

    Life was not about winning or losing. As long as the person was happy, then that was all that mattered. But, by Abel''s peeved expression, he was definitely losing at the moment... and the people cramped inside the tiny space in the carriage only had one thing in mind: he would throw a tantrum.

    Inside the carriage was Abel with his leg resting over the other and his arms folded under his chest. Across from him was his beloved wife, Aries, smiling awkwardly at him, and then Dexter, who was sitting beside her. Conan, on the other hand, sat beside Abel and was observing thetter from the corner of his eyes.

    The carriage Dexter bought for Aries wasfortable enough for two people to travel in. Having the four of them inside and on a rocky road brought a minor difort, with their shoulders bumping into each other. But that wasn''t the main source of this awkward air inside the carriage.

    "Therefore, she stays in the Vandran residence," Dexter concluded with a triumphant smile, enjoying pressing Abel''s nerve.

    "I see... no wonder you''ve been so tamedtely. I should''ve known you were devising a meticulous and devious n to take my wife away from me." Abel chuckled with his lips closed, making Aries shudder. When he raised his eyes at her, Aries immediately looked away and red daggers at Dexter.

    ''Gosh... I told them to distract him, not to dig our own graves!'' Aries clicked her tongue while Dexter cast her a sidelong nce. ''Tsk. He will get us killed!''

    "But that makes sense." Conan chimed in while rubbing his chin. "Lady Aries married Abel Grimsbanne, and not Eustass or Silvestri. Everyone will be shocked if we suddenly announced you have a wife and there''s already an empress. The Imperial faction will betled if theye to know that His Majesty married the Marquess''s sister, while it will fuel the aristocratic faction''s greed."

    He snapped his eyes and looked up, darting his eyes between Abel, Aries, and then at Dexter. "Everyone already knew Lady Aries as Lady Danie, and I think it is best to keep it that way. In that case, we''ll save ourselves from exining the reason and she can continue the life she had built in Haimirich."

    "The point here is, Lady Aries had to live normally and peacefully. If we reveal she was a fallen princess held captive for years, then... even the aristocratic faction would be displeased. After all, Haimirich is full of hypocrites. It is better if the nobles curry favor to her, although it was annoying than them ostracizing her and making things hard for her," he added in the same knowing tone, agreeing with Dexter''s argument of Aries returning to Haimirich as Danie Circe instead of Abel''s wife. "I agree with the marquess this time, Your Majesty. And I''m talking from your legal advisor''s point of view."

    "Wow..." Aries could not help but p at Conan''s remarks. "The original image I had for you is slowly recovering, Sir Conan."

    "Hehe..." Conan rubbed his finger under his nose.

    During the first several days of their journey, Conan''s respectable image in Aries''s mind was shattered, pulverized by Conan''s own doing. No one could me her, though. Conan was still intoxicated when they started their journey and he had motion sickness. It was the worse day he had ever experienced in his years of existence. So now, he was trying his best to recover his honor since he couldn''t stand Aries and even Climaco looking down on him!

    "She will stay in..." Abel arched a brow as he nced at the window. "Alright."

    "Huh?" Aries blinked twice, tugging her earlobe, wide-eyed. "Did he just agree?"

    She looked at Dexter, only to furrow her brows. Her eyes shifted to Conan and saw him looking in the window with furrowed brows.

    "Uh... is there''s something wrong?" she asked, looking out at the window they were staring at, only to see the glorious Haimirich from afar.

    They had been traveling for almost a month now. Although Aries requested to journey using a carriage because she didn''t want Abel to use his wings, these men still argued they had to return to Haimirich as soon as possible. So, topromise, they would travel by carriage in the morning, and by foot at night, when everyone was fast asleep in their homes.

    Thus, their travel time was shortened by months, since their speed was beyond humanprehension. Even Aries was in disbelief. Abel didn''t need to use his wings because he was fast, even by running. Now, here they were, about to enter the borders of Haimirich.<sub> </sub>

    If they continued traveling by carriage, they would reach the Capital in less than two or three days. But if they travel by foot again, they would arrive at the Imperial Pce tonight.

    "Huh?" Aries furrowed her brows as she sniffed hard. "What is that smell?"

    Aries sniffed hard a couple more times to discern this familiar but faint scent. The answer was already at the tip of her tongue, but she just couldn''t say what it was.

    "Bullshit."

    "What?"

    "That''s what I smell, darling. It smells bullshit." He winked, making her frown.

    "Choctes?" Dexter mumbled to himself, but Aries heard him.

    "Yes!" Aries pped and raised her head at Abel. "It smells like... chocte."

    The side of Abel''s lips curled up into a cunning smirk, keeping his eyes on the window before blinking to Aries. Thetter tilted her head to the side, picking up the slight excitement in his eyes. Abel had never failed to express how disheartened he was to return to Haimirich and have to split his time with the mountain of work waiting for him in his office. This was the first time he looked a little... amused?

    "My instincts were correct," he crooned with a smile. "It seems Haimirich is now growing cacao and had been the main source of ie during my absence."

    Abel then nced at Conan. "Didn''t I tell them to focus on growing potatoes?"

    "Hehe... that''s not my fault." Conan awkwardlyughed while scratching his temple. "I''ll go and check myself. Hey! Stop the carriage, I''m going out!"

    p Conan mmed the wall to catch Climaco''s бк the coachman throughout this journey бк attention. The carriage slowly came to a halt after a minute.</anda>

    "See you in the capital!" Conan waved happily before hitching outside without a lot of ceremonies.

    "I''ll see you in the capital." Dexter tapped Aries''s shoulder to get her attention. "I had already sent a word to Gustav. He will wait for you in the capital. He''ll lead your knight the way home."

    "Oh..." Aries rocked her head, still baffled, while watching Dexter leave the carriage. Thetter offered her a smile as he stood outside before closing the door.

 Chapter 464 Saved Her Ass

    "What is that about?" Aries mumbled to herself, staring at the shut door Dexter closed from the outside.

    Conan and Dexter simply left, just like that. It wouldn''t be suspicious if this was in the past, since Dexter couldn''t stand Abel and Conan, and Conan couldn''t stand Abel and Dexter. And hence, she would mostly spend time with either of them alone. But now, it seemed like they had this non-verbatim agreement and left her in the dark.

    "Abel?" she narrowed her eyes and shot the man across from her a suspicious look. "Care to tell me what is going on?"

    Abel was leaning his back against the seat, arms crossed. "I''m not following, darling."

    "Don''t give me that excuse. I know you. You will not agree with my brother''s suggestion that easily unless I asked for it." Aries raised her chin and crossed her arms. "Don''t lie to me and you know I hate it when I''m kept in the dark."

    Abel pressed his lips into a thin line before letting out a shallow breath. Since when did he be so powerless? Ever since marrying her, Aries had been abusing her power and bossing him around. Not that he didn''t like being bossed around by her; he would like it if she stepped on him or take this attitude on the bed.

    "It''s really nothing, darling. It''s just that it seemed a visitor came while we were away and is ying around," he exined truthfully. "The reason I agreed with the Marquess is partly because Conan made a logical point and is convenient for all of us."

    "The other reason?" she raised her brows, studying his eyes, and knew he wasn''t lying.

    "I don''t know what sort of person waiting for me in my throne hall." He smiled while her brows creased. "You already know what I am and what we''re capable of. Humans might be weak against us, but there were vampires out there capable enough to take down Dexter or Conan."

    "You know very well strength is not the only criteria for winning, darling." Abel tapped his temple lightly. "There were many vampires who were so cunning, and other forces that can harm me."

    "Are you in danger?" she perked up, her heart racing in worry.

    This time, his lips stretched wider. "What a stupid question."

    "Tsk." Aries frowned at the immeasurable confidence reeking from his smile. "I''m still your wife, and even if you''re capable, I''ll always get worried."

    "I am always in danger, darling. You remember how many times they serve me poison and not all those came from the marquess. You are one unfortunatedy for having a husband whom everyone wished to die." Abel set his eyes back on the window. The side of his eyes wrinkled as he smiled. "I used to think the same, but now... I don''t want to die."

    Her brows rose, watching him set his eyes back to him. She looked down at his hand when he extended it to her.

    "Come, sit here, darling." His smile was gentle, waiting for her to sp his hand patiently. Aries let out a shallow breath and carefully reached for his hand, only to her pulled and yanked on hisp. She clutched his shoulder on instinct, raising her shaking eyes at him.

    "Now..." Abel cleared his throat and smirked at her. "... where were we before you invited them in?"

    As soon as thest syble slipped past his lips, Aries froze as her pupils dted. His lips stretched until his eyes were squinting.

    "So, you loved him...?" he asked, continuing the discussion they had before Aries stopped the carriage to pee, only to return with Dexter and Conan squeezing themselves in the carriage. It was obvious she was avoiding this matter, but Aries''sst conversation with Joaquin had bothered Abel.<sub> </sub>

    "Hah... yes," came out an awkwardugh, making his brow arched. Seeing how it upset him, Aries clicked her tongue and pped his chest. "You''re jealous because of that?"

    "Yes. You told me you love me the night before that, and then say that to another man the next day. I''ll kill him and make you watch how I''d do it." His voice was dead t and his expression nk.

    "Abel, do you seriously not understand why I told him that?"

    "I do, but I don''t like it." He nted his finger on her lips. "Those words are only for me. I im the rights for it."

    Her lips curled up as she crawled her arms around his neck, staring at his bewitching, handsome face. Abel, being a bit jealous, wasn''t what she imagined him. She expected way worse, but perhaps it was because he understood Aries''s reasoning.

    Not that Aries believed she fell in love with Joaquin, just as she imed. Although she wasn''t lying about certain things; Joaquin was the nicest guy on some asions. If Joaquin took her rejection well and still tried his best to court her properly, he might move her heart. However, that wasn''t the case, and that wasn''t what happened.

    Joaquin hated rejection the most and had sought validation from others by means or foul. The man hadn''t had long patience to spare and hence, he would rather force things. There was no way Aries would fall for that kind of man, especially if that man murdered her entire family and forced her to watch it.

    That had always been crystal clear.

    "He always says he was doing things because he loves me," she whispered, but now she could somehow talk about it with no positive or negative feelings in her heart. "That''s why I let him have a taste of what it feels to be told they were loved, but the actions say otherwise."

    "Actions hurt, but words hurt like the sharpest knife when they were empty." Aries looked up at him and smiled subtly. At the end of the day, Aries knew that would hurt Joaquin more than any horrible torture. Being told by the woman he love loved him at some point, but also aware she didn''t fully understand what those words meant when she uttered them, had already devastated him before his inevitable downfall.

    That was the punishment she bestowed on him, and he would take that and those conflicting words to the grave.

    "I love you." Aries expressed and smiled subtly. "Same words, but they sounded different when ites from the heart."

    His lips curled up and rocked his head. "Just when I was thinking of experimenting... you just saved your ass, darling."

    "..." Horror instantly dominated her face, watching that devious grin stered across his face. "You were --"

    "Yes. Literally." He nodded, smiling from ear to ear. "That other hole."

    "I... married a nasty pervert, huh?"

    "Wee to my life."

 Chapter 465 Sweet Tooth Devil

    After Dexter closed the carriage door, his expression grew sharp. Not just him, but Conan as well.

    "Morro, fly to the Capital and see what is going on." Conan nced at the coachman''s seat, where Climaco and Morro were sitting. Morro said nothing as he nodded, jumping out of his seat and sauntering off.

    ? Baffled, Climaco had his brows knitted. "What is going on...?"

    "Once you reach the borders of the capital, Gustav, the head butler of my residence, will wee you. I had already sent him a word, so you only need to follow him." Dexter faced Climaco solemnly. "Don''t go anywhere and make sure this carriage with my sister in it arrives at my home safely."

    "Ye бк yes, my Lord." Climaco lowered his head slightly, despite not having any idea what was happening. But his brows rose when Dexter pointed at him.

    "Remember what I said. You will only follow Gustav. Anyone might approach you and im they were Gustav, but unless theye and greet His Majesty, do not stop."

    "Yes, my lord." Climaco bowed slightly once more, watching Conan and Dexter exchange a look. When he blinked, those two disappeared without a trace, as if they simply teleported. If not for the fact a shadow went past him like a wind, Climaco would think they just disappeared instead of running at full speed.

    "What is going on?" mumbled Climaco, shaking his head, before ncing at the empire standing gloriously from the distance. "Haimirich... it seems Lady Aries is right. This ce... is different from the Maganti Empire."

    Climaco took a big gulp before he maneuvered the carriage and resumed their journey. He didn''t need Morro''s instruction anymore since he already knew how to get to their destination. Still, this unsettling feeling after seeing how serious Dexter and Conan have lingered.

    Perhaps it was because he knew Haimirich was a vampire''s breeding ground, he thought. Or it could be because this was Climaco''s first time going to another empire. But then again, Climaco had taken part in Joaquin''s venture in iming other small kingdoms even though he was simply a reserved. The other kingdoms didn''t give him this sort of unsettling feeling бк it brought him a little nervousness, knowing he could die in the war, but this anxiety settling in his heart was different for sure.

    ''I need to get stronger to protect her,'' he told himself, eyes soaking with determination, slowly embracing the fact thisnd was thend of the strongest and deadliest. To protect his master бк even though she had Abel and those people on her back бк Climaco had to do something.

    And with that, Climaco navigated the carriage to the empire with this unbending resolution in his head. If the Maganti Empire had been a dangerous ce to live in and survive this far, then Haimirich was ten times more dangerous to survive in. The term weak for them was considered strong for humans, and Climaco... would be considered weaker than a mosquito they could squash down easily.

    He had to get stronger, even as a human, to protect the master he vowed to protect with his life.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Meanwhile...

    "Holy..." Conan gasped as they stood on top of the tower to get a better view of the imperial pce. His eyes went round at the sight he caught, especially at what they were building in the middle of the pce grounds.

    "That abomination... what is he doing there?" Dexter mumbled. Unlike Conan, who was focusing on the situation of the imperial pce, Dexter''s eyes were fixed on Isaiah''s tiny figure. He narrowed his eyes, focusing on the duke''s surroundings to understand the situation. The Duke was still riding his steed outside the gates of the Imperial Pce.

    "They are not granting him entry?" he muttered as he raised his eyes to the glorious imperial pce. "What is going on?"<sub> </sub>

    "What do you mean?" Conan snapped out of his trance and looked at Dexter, only to see thetter looking at the imperial pce. He then noticed Isaiah talking to the knights outside the gates. Conan was quick enough to grasp the situation.

    "Who...?" he trailed off, holding his breath. "... could possibly challenge His Majesty like this?"

    "It''s either someone of his caliber or... just one of those foolish ones who think it is that easy to wear his shoes." Dexter breathed out, eyes still fixed on the imperial pce. "But from how I feel it, it''s definitely the former."

    Conan let out a sharp scoff, setting his eyes on the thing that caught his attention initially. "A chocte statue... what is this? A sweet tooth devil?"

    "You''re getting your priorities wrong." Dexter snapped his eyes and shot Conan a look. "Can''t you see the Duke is leaving?"

    "Huh?" Conan''s eyes fell to where Isaiah previously was. His eyes popped open when Isaiah pulled the reins and was leaving instead of forcing himself in. "What бк what''s going on? Why is he backing down?"

    "How can a pureblood be so slow?" Dexter clicked his tongue in irritation.

    "Hah!" Conan scoffed, offended by the marquess''s constant dissing. "Because I''m not a hypocrite just like you? You always im how you hate the blood running in your veins, but still use these non-humans abilities when you want to figure out something."

    "I use them because a particr vampire who should be using them isn''t doing his job," Dexter argued through his gritted teeth. What Conan said surely hit a nerve as the vein on the marquess''s temple protruded.

    "Tsk." A glint flickered across Conan''s eyes as he hissed, but before this could prolong, Conan raised a question. "So what is it?"

    "Nothing."

    "What? Are you holding a grudge now and forcing me to scan the situation myself?"

    "I mean, I feel nothing," Dexter stressed, setting aside his annoyance, and shifting his attention back to the imperial pce. "Normally, we can size up a vampire and know whether they are stronger or weaker. But if they were like His Majesty... a normal vampire such as myself will feel nothing. I don''t know about a pureblood like you."

    "Well." Conan cleared his throat as he pondered whether to size things up by borrowing his blood''s ability. But before he could decide, both of them caught Morro flying at full speed in their direction.

    Dexter raised an arm where Morronded, and without further ado, Morro''s frantic voice came through their heads.

    "Too much chocte! His Majesty! He needs to see the situation in the royal court at once!"

 Chapter 466 Reliable, Rich Big Brother

    "I wonder if Violet already arrived?" Aries murmured, still sitting on Abel''sp while ying with the tip of his green hair near his nape. She frowned when her eyes met Abel''s.

    "Don''t look at me like that. Where Violet stayed is closer to where we came from. So, it''ll take us more travel time than her." She clicked her tongue in annoyance. "I think they left бк my brother and Sir Conan. Will you carry me again tonight? Or should we rent an inn to... you know, spend some time with just the two of us?"

    His lips curled up, pulling her waist closer against his body. "Should we?"

    "I can barely count the times we stopped during this entire journey and we''re already in Haimirich." She frowned, a little anxious about getting separated from him. Aries wrapped her arms around his neck and rested her head until her nose touched the side of his neck.

    "How dare he propose for me to stay in his home when I''m already married?" she grumbled, nning to nag Dexter as soon as she stepped foot in the Vandran residence. "I''m not a child."

    "If you are angry, then stay in the Rose Pce." His smile stretched broader while casually caressing her back. "He won''t listen to me and fight me to death, especially since he sees you as his real sister. But if you asked him, he will bend."

    Her eyes lowered as they softened. "No, it''s fine."

    "Darling, I''m trying to sound an understanding husband whilst wishing you fight for your spouse."

    Aries chuckled at his response, but she had seen thating. Abel wasn''t that noble.

    "But I like it," she confessed softly while rubbing the fabric of his clothes in between her thumb and index. "Having a brother... one way or another, we both longed for our siblings. It feels nice to have someone who annoys you to death, but at the same time, cares for you even if it means he''d be in trouble."

    "Ohh..."

    Aries raised her brows as she pushed herself away to look at him. "What''s with that tone and look?"

    "Nothing, darling. I just can''t rte." He shrugged, reminding her he didn''t have that sort of rtionship with his siblings.

    "Right..." she cleared her throat. "Don''t you want to see your sisters, Abel?"

    "Mhm... no."

    "Why? You don''t seem to hate them."

    "I don''t hate them, and I don''t like them."

    "Just what sort of familial rtionship is that?" she mumbled. "It''ll be nice to meet my husband''s family, you know?"

    "Well, my darling potato, it will be if they are normal." He smiled, raising his brows briefly.

    "It''s not like you are that normal."

    "Darling, you are hurting my fragile heart. If you meet my sisters, you''ll see me in a different light! They''re all crazy and you''ll deem me as the most normal one," he intoned with confidence, making her narrow her eyes. "I''m not lying. If you think I am crazy? Then wait until you see one of them."

    "As if you''d take me to one of them." Aries clicked her tongue, only to arch a brow when she noticed the smirk on his lips. "What? You''ll take me to meet them? You said one of your sisters is still back home. Will you take me to where Abel was birthed?"

    "No, darling." Her excited smile was immediately reced with a frown and then furrowed her brows at his next remarks. "I don''t need to take you to them to meet them."<sub> </sub>

    "What do you mean by that?"

    "What I mean is..." Abel trailed off as he nced at the window and smirked. "... I am the reliable and rich big brother. When the family is having a crisis, they would surely turn to the rich big brother for help."

    Aries rocked her head in understanding before her eyes popped open. "They''reing to visit you?"

    "I wish Mathilda will. That girl needs some sunlight. She''s always been so tardy," he remarked while Aries studied the luster in his eyes and her heart warmed up.

    "You sound like a big brother. That''s new." She grinned, watching him set his eyes back to her. "It seems like I had fallen in love again."

    "Hah..." Abel raised his brows at this sudden discovery. "Darling, should I adopt people as my brothers and sisters?"

    "What?"

    "It didn''t cross me until now, but it seemed your preference is a family-oriented man."

    "Tss. Of course. Who would want a man who isn''t grateful to their family? Just how will a man treat me if he can''t even have an ounce of respect for his parents, even if there''s a reason for it?" Aries argued in a matter-of-fact tone, and then hurriedly added when his lips parted. "Of course, this is also a very subjective topic, and it varies in the situation."

    "Are you perhaps reading my mind?" Abel gasped in disbelief as he was about to disagree with her.

    "No, but I already know how what you will say." She shrugged. "I won''t let you twist my words for your own benefit."

    "My... I''m speechless."

    "You should be." Her lips stretched from ear to ear while Abel simply stared at her bright smile.

    The more he stared at her, the more this warmth in his heart seeped deep into his bones. Abel raised a hand and gently tucked a portion of her hair behind her ear.

    "You''re smiling more now, darling," his voice was low with a tinge of relief. "So this is Aries."

    "Hmm?"

    Abel snapped his eyes and locked his eyes with hers. "You''re beautiful."

    "Of course I am." She bit her lip to stop herself from grinning, pinching his chest mildly.

    The two of them shared a moment of silence and then chuckled for no reason. They felt at peace now and content with life. Although in the back of their heads, things could change in a blink of an eye. But it didn''t deter them from enjoying the moment. If a problem rose tomorrow, then they would worry about it tomorrow; they would rather enjoy each other now since they were living in the present.

    After some time, Abel finally spoke.

    "Darling, I don''t think you''d meet my sister бк the one I mentioned just now бк yet. However, if you meet my other sisters... especially with the named Marse, run to me as fast as possible." Aries furrowed her brows while studying the solemnity in his eyes.

 Chapter 467 Glutton

    "Marse?" Aries whispered, automatically engraving that name in her head because the look in Abel''s eyes sent a chill down her spine.

    "Yes. That name. If you see her in the street, don''t walk past her. Turn around and walk away. Do you understand?" he raised his brows, making her nod in understanding despite not fully grasping the reason. "Good."

    "How would I know her, though? What does she look like?"

    "She..." Abel cocked his head to the side and then looked at her with conflict. "Thest time I''ve seen her, she''s an infant. I told you. She eloped with a man."

    "That''s too vague..." she smacked her lips in disappointment. "But why should I be wary of her?"

    "I''m not saying to be wary of her. I''m telling you, avoid her at all costs."

    "But why?"

    "Because..." Abel winced as he looked in the window. "... she will like you."

    "Huh?" Aries scrunched her nose up. "She will like me?"

    "Mhm. You... don''t want to be liked by her. You''d rather wish she won''t take a liking to you." Abel poked the tip of her nose mildly.

    "Why? What would happen if she likes me?"

    "I will kill her."

    "You will what?"

    "If you think you went through hell, that nutcase will prove you had only glimpsed the fiery gates of hell," he exined with certainty, not giving her a chance to question his ims. "She''s that type of crazy. She''s abnormal. If she likes you, she''ll take you to the pits of hell to have somepany there."

    Aries let out a shallow breath and nodded in understanding. She didn''t know whether it was because of his tone or the look in his eyes, but the uneasiness in her heart suddenly grew distinct.

    "Marse," she whispered, not to forget the name of his sister. Aries then raised her head when she heard wings pping. A smile resurfaced on her face, watching a ravennd on the open window of the carriage.

    "Morro!" she called happily, while Abel quirked a brow at her. "I''m so d to see you."

    The raven, Morro, cast her a nce before shifting his attention to Abel. The two of them looked at each other, making Aries furrow her brows.

    "What?" she asked Abel. "Why are you suddenly silent?"

    "Morro, tell them I''d be thereter." Abel smiled at her. "I will take her to the Vandran Residence myself."

    ''But it was urgent, Your Majesty!'' Morro''s frantic voice rang in Abel''s head, but thetter didn''t share the same urgency about the matter.

    "Just make sure Conan doesn''t step foot in my chambers."

    ''But Your Majesty... he and the Marquess had already infiltrated the Imperial Pce.''

    "Hmm?" Aries cocked her head to the side, blinking almost innocently.

    Abel smiled at her before casting the raven a look. "How about Isaiah?"

    ''He retreated.''

    "I see..." he rocked his head in understanding.

    "Are you talking to Morro?" she inquired, darting her eyes between Abel and the raven. "You can talk to animals?"<sub> </sub>

    "Morro is not an animal, darling. He likes to be one, though. Just like me, sometimes I just want to be a cat. No stress or work, all I need to do is to meow," he humored, smiling from ear to ear until his eyes were squinting. Aries clicked her tongue and pped his chest.

    "Seriously. You are good at diverting my attention." Aries rolled her eyes. "Are there some sort of enemy waiting for you in the imperial pce? Is it your sister? Will you be alright?"

    Abel let out a faint exhale and pinched her cheek. "No. It is too early to assume things, darling."

    "But you said Sir Conan..."

    "It''s nothing like that, darling. More like... it was his private matter. I don''t think I have the right to talk about it."

    "Is that so...?"

    "Don''t worry too much, darling." Abel nodded encouragingly while cupping her face. "I''ll visit you at the Vandran estate."

    "You will leave now?" she frowned instantly, making him smile.

    "No. Of course not. I had to make sure you meet Gustav first. It''ll be too dangerous."

    "But I know Gustav."

    "You know his face." Aries''s brows furrowed at his reply. "Darling, you have a long бк a very long way to go to understand vampires had their own abilities. Mimicking a person''s face isn''t impossible for some, and neither falling into a realistic illusion."

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed, leaning his face to brush the tip of his nose against hers. "How cute. You''re like an infant in my world."

    "It sounds... very dangerous," she mumbled, watching him draw his head back.

    "I never said it wasn''t. I told you, didn''t I? We should''ve stayed in thend of Rikhill."

    Aries frowned. "But this is yournd. One way or another, you would always think about it. It''s not like it''s that easy to forget a ce you built from scratch."

    "How cute." Abel grinned, pulling her waist closer to him. "Don''t worry. You won''t be in danger."

    "Anyway, Morro, is that all?" he cocked his head back, eyes falling on the raven.

    ''Aside from not having entry to the inner pce, that''s all. But the choctes... Your Majesty, the imperial pce is being gued by a colony of ants! It was too much for the knights and servants to handle.''

    Abel burst out inughter. "Goodness. How interesting!"

    "What''s interesting?" Aries queried, looking at Morro with narrowed eyes.

    "Choctes, darling," he exined. "The amount of chocte in Haimirich rmed them. I guess my guest is a sweet tooth."

    Abel paused as his eyelids drooped. "Glutton."

    "Huh?"

    "Nothing, darling. I just realized I sort of figured out what my visitor was."

    "Pardon?" her brows rose, looking at Abel''s grin. "Who?"

    Aries and Morro looked at Abel in anticipation, but thetter''s grin simply stretched from ear to ear. Abel didn''t answer the question, but by the looks of it, he wasn''t expecting an enemy. Or maybe Aries was wrong, she thought. After all, Abel would have the same wicked expression if it were a formidable opponent.

 Chapter 468 Not A Pleasant News For Him

    Aries and Abel stayed in the carriage, as per Abel''s request, only to make a stop in a town to rest in an inn. Meanwhile, Morro had already flown away when Abel told him to survey the capital, and if possible, stop Conan from approaching the emperor''s chambers at all costs.

    As instructed, Morro surveyed the movements in the capital as it would take Abel another day to reach the Capital via carriage. Until this point, Morro didn''t understand Abel''sck of urgency when Conan and Dexter were rmed by the force dwelling in the imperial pce. Not just that, but Isaiah had also retreated when he wasn''t granted entry into a ce that would open up even when the grand duke was still far away.

    "Where did they..." Morro trailed off, catching Isaiah dragging Dexter and Conan out of the imperial pce from the west entrance. "My Lord!"

    Without thinking twice, Morro descended at full speed, only tond on Dexter''s shoulder, as Isaiah tossed them away.

    "Are you out of your mind?!" Conan harrumphed, tugging the hem of his clothes to straighten it. "Why did you drag us out?! We need to see the situation!"

    "Why are you still here? Didn''t you walk away when you were refused entry?" Dexter backed up, a little miffed at how Isaiah came from behind them, and restrained the two of them, only to drag them out. It was already a challenge to infiltrate the imperial pce with its tight security.

    "His Majesty willeter," said Isaiah with his usual stoic front. "Don''t put yourself in danger until hees in here."

    "Don''t put myself бк wow! I never felt so insulted before!" Conan scoffed, almost out of words for the things this man had just said.

    "They are talking about renaming the empire." Unlike Conan, who took it personally, Dexter was quick enough to understand this man had his reasons for dragging them out. It wasn''t a pretty thing to remember, but Isaiah wanted nothing to do with them unless Abel said so.

    "That''s right! How the hell did those ministerse up with this ridiculous n of renaming Haimirich to Chocte Empire!? Didn''t you put the entire imperial pce under the spell when we left? Howe this is happening?" Conan nagged through his gritted teeth.

    Back when they left the Haimirich Empire, Isaiah put a spell so everyone who would enter the Imperial Pce would do their job without cking. The reason everyone in the pce бк vampires and humans alike бк would bear nk eyes and their memories for the entire day were hazy. It was the quietest months in the imperial pce with everyone just working to finish their mountains of paperwork and keep the empire running while they were away.

    So how did this all happen?

    "Did your spell expire or what?" Conan continued irritably, huffing.

    "It''s still there." Isaiah looked back at the pce behind him with the same stoic countenance. "It is just that... another spell is put up бк a stronger one."

    "What?" Dexter furrowed his brows.

    "You wouldn''t infiltrate the imperial pce if that person inside didn''t grant you entry," Isaiah continued in a quiet voice, setting his sharp yet dull eyes at the two of them. "Morro, what did His Majesty say?"

    "He will escort Lady Aries to meet Gustav." Morro was quick to answer, throwing Dexter and Conan in a river of confusion. "I think you should leave the imperial pce alone until His Majesty reims it."

    "What?" Conan gasped in disbelief. "Are you seriously going to listen to him? He would burn Haimirich to migrate in Rikhill бк oh! I should pack now if that is the case."<sub> </sub>

    Dexter looked at Conan in dismay as this man suddenly changed his mind with a snap of a finger. He shook his head, casting the raven on his shoulder a look before setting his eyes on Isaiah.

    "Do you know who that person inside is?" he inquired as if he hadn''t figured out the answer.

    ? "No." Isaiah held the marquess''s gaze solemnly. "But I don''t think this is a matter that we should be concerned about."

    Dexter furrowed his brows, detecting the oddity in Isaiah''s unchanging tone. He studied the duke and caught him staring at Conan while Morro flew andnded on Isaiah''s shoulder.

    ''That''s strange...'' Dexter muttered inwardly but chose to bite his tongue to stop himself from prying. "If that is the case, then I''ll go home."

    "What бк wait!" Conan gasped, watching Dexter turn around to leave. Thetter stopped and cocked his head back.

    "If the situation did not rm the emperor''s vassal and the emperor himself, then I don''t see the need to get riled up. I''m going home, and prepare a banquet for my sister''s return after getting caught up with a rebellion." Dexter waved nonchntly as he sauntered off. "The aristocratic faction would surely cause trouble since it was His Majesty''s idea to marry her off. You better prepare yourself for that."

    "What..." Conan scrunched his nose up, watching Dexter''s retreating back. "Tsk. He''s back to being a dick."

    "Sir Conan, you should take this time to have some rest," Morro advised, making Conan look at him with narrow eyes.

    "Since when did you care about my well-being?"

    "I saw the mountain of paperwork in your chancery бк it''s full of them," Morro exined in a knowing tone. "Not to mention the mountain of paperwork in His Majesty''s office. He will pass them to you and you''ll die because of it. I haven''t considered what the marquess said just now."

    Conan froze as he imagined the work he had left and had now piled after months of absence. He covered his gaping mouth with his palm while horror filled his eyes.

    "But if you don''t want to, we can go back and start now --" Morro halted, blinking, only to see Conan''s figure disappear without a trace. "He''s so fast. I guess he still got it."

    While Morro was amazed at how Conan fled in a blink of an eye to enjoy thest day of his vacation, Isaiah walked in the same spot. He raised his head as soon as he faced the imperial pce, letting out a deep exhale.

    "What else did His Majesty say?" he asked when he was certain Dexter and Conan had left without looking back.

    Morro nced at the duke and reported. "He said don''t let Sir Conan set foot in the emperor''s chambers."

    "So he had already known..." Isaiah whispered, narrowing his as he recalled the memory he had seen when he walked into the emperor''s chambers earlier. "... it''s not pleasant news for him."

 Chapter 469 [Bonus Chapter]Quality Time

    Meanwhile...

    "Is it alright for you to stroll in the street?" Aries looked to her right where Abel was walking while holding his hand. "No one will recognize you?"

    "This town is too far from the capital." Abel cocked his head back and wiggled his brows. "Those who had seen me will not be in this ce. Even if they were, they''d rather pretend to be blind."

    "Don''t scare them like that." She chuckled softly while shaking her head.

    "There''s nothing to be scared of me if they don''t have any malicious intent." He shrugged nonchntly, setting his eyes ahead. "Ahh... what a lively town."

    A subtle smile dominated her face, squeezing his hand just to feel him. Aries looked ahead and her smile stretched even wider. Her eyes softened at the sight of the town, and she couldn''t help but agree with him. It was a lively town, even though it was situated in the farthest part of the empire.

    It was already night, but the za was still bustling and people were walking in the streets to either buy something in the food stalls or just enjoy the night breeze, just like the two of them. How nice would it be if they weremoners? But Aries didn''t push herself to dwell on that sudden thought, as she knew it was pointless.

    Abel had built this empire from scratch, and Haimirich had the most advanced technology in every area. Many countries saw this empire as a threat, while some looked at it as if it was a model they should follow. It differed in each sovereign''s perspective since there were always good and bad in everything. After all, Abel was a tyrant who ruled an empire with an iron fist.

    That was a fact one wouldn''t deny.

    "You will leave tonight, will you?" Aries broke the silence between them, raising her eyes at him again. "While I''m fast asleep, you nned to sneak out, am I wrong?"

    "No. You''re right." Abel smiled and walked slower. "I will meet my guestter."

    Aries pursed her lips, stopping in her strides, and facing him squarely. "Will youe back?" she asked.

    "Of course. The moment you open your eyes tomorrow, this face will wee you."

    "Promise?" she squeezed his hand, watching him rock his head.

    "Promise."

    "You''ll be fine, right?"

    "Of course, I will be. No need to be so worried бк I mean, well, that makes sense. We''re married now and a wife''s nagging is quite normal." Abel nodded in understanding, recalling the stories of those locals in Rikhill. His lips stretched until his teeth were showing, embracing the fact that they weren''t just lovers now, but actual husband and wife. They got married twice, and he was already thinking about the location of their next wedding.

    "I''m seriously worried." Aries shook her head as it truly seemed she didn''t need to get worried based on hisck of urgency. "Come on, let''s try some food."

    Aries didn''t wait for him and dragged him to the food stall nearby. Her smile was cemented on her face, a little excited to spend this time with just him. It reminded her of the first time they went out for a stroll in the Capital. Back then, they didn''t fully enjoy it as they were suppressing the budding feeling in their hearts.

    But now, they were strolling again like normal lovers would. This time around, they didn''t need to worry about anything else but how to maximize this time together.<sub> </sub>

    When Aries tapped out from roaming the town and felt full after trying so much food, they returned to the inn to rest. As usual, they bathed together and shared quite a few kisses. But since Aries''s injuries were still healing, they settled in relieving each other with just their hands and mouth.

    "I feel like my hand and jaw will fall off..." she grumbled while lying on the bed listlessly. Abel was lying on his side, propping his temple against his knuckles, grinning from ear to ear.

    "You had a nice grip, darling."

    "Were you purposely holding back to tire me out?"

    "No. I just had a strong pull-out game." He shrugged proudly, his hand reaching for her face. "Go and recover quickly, darling. I don''t think I can keep holding back."

    Aries pouted, narrowing her eyes at him. "The reason I want to relieve my husband is so I don''t suffer from months of pent-up energy."

    "You like it rough, though."

    "Well..." Aries pursed her lips, thinking how different it was if he was inside her. Although she enjoyed his fingers and tongue gliding up and down and in and out, there was still something different when his manhood was pounding against her walls. Aries reached for his blouse while biting her lips.

    "I''ll recover quickly so you don''t break my bones when we do it," she giggled, moving up to im his lips. It was a quick peck before resting her head over his arm and then wrapping her arms around his torso.

    "This feels nice," she mumbled, inhaling the floral scent of soap they both used, which surprisingly suits him. Aries moved closer and found herfortable spot in his embrace, closing her eyes to rest.

    "I feel tired," came out a confession under her breath, feeling her entire body rxing on the mattress they were lying on. "Don''t go just yet, Abel."

    "I won''t." He caressed her back gently, sliding his arm down that was propping his temple. "Not until I''m certain you are fast asleep."

    "You promised you wille back before I open my eyes."

    "Mhm." His eyes softened, staring down at her. "I always keep my promises... no matter what."

    "That sounds reassuring. My husband is the best." Aries giggled, pulling his body closer to her. "The best of the best and the strongest, for sure."

    "You are not wrong, darling."

    She chuckled, keeping her eyes closed. "I love you, Abel."

    "Iбн more than you, darling." Abel leaned down and nted his lips on top of her head. "Goodnight."

 Chapter 470 [Bonus Chapter]Meeting The Empires Distinguish Guest

    Abel continued to caress Aries''s back tenderly and in silence. All that time, his eyes never left her beautiful face, smiling in satisfaction at having her in his arms. Throughout this journey, Abel never left her side day in and out. So, he understood the reason she wanted to see him first thing in the morning because she was already used to it.

    It was silly, considering they barely saw each other in the Maganti Empire, but it was alright. It wasn''t like Aries would stop her world because of him. She wasn''t that type ofdy. The more she knew about his world, the more she would find it interesting since she was like that.

    It might be a bitter pill to swallow, but Aries wouldn''t grow if she stayed at his side all day long. Why? Because Abel would confine her in the bedroom with him; he didn''t mind moving his office to their bedroom, after all. She''d be his snack every break time.

    But obviously, Dexter had foreseen thating. Whether Aries invited them to avoid their discussion at that time or didn''t, Dexter would surely fight for her. That Marquess... might''ve enjoyed pressing Abel''s nerves, but at the same time, he sincerely cared for Aries and would rather offend Abel than lose her in this bloody world they moved in.

    There were still many things Aries needed to learn and know.

    "Until now, he still hadn''t moved on with that woman''s passing," he whispered, observing Aries''s deep breaths. "She seemed truly exhausted. I shouldn''t have held back." бк but Aries wouldn''t sleep immediately if Abel reached orgasm that fast.

    "She needs rest," he told himself when he felt a building tension in his groin just by looking at her face. "She''ll be in big trouble once she fully recovered."

    Abel bit his lips and moved his face closer to her, nting a kiss on her neck, and drawing his head back before his hand could undress her. Another deep sigh escaped his mouth. It was no fun holding back when a very delectable dish was right in front of him. One orgasm wasn''t enough to quench his insatiable lust.

    "I wish I can be inside her forever." He shook his head, disheartened at the building-up sexual frustration in his heart. If this wasn''t Aries and if he didn''t care for her well-being, Aries would''ve been awake by now, and this bed would have been creaking intensely.

    It took him quite some time idling beside her before he carefully slipped away without waking her up. When Abel sat on the edge of the bed, he looked back at her.

    "What a shame," came out a dejected voice before he pushed himself away from the bed. He wordlessly sauntered towards the stand, grabbing the cloak he had been wearing and flinging it around his shoulder. While tying the drawstrings, Abel walked towards the window.

    As soon as he opened the window, a wind carrying the scent of chocte wafted his nose. His lips stretched from ear to ear as his eyes glinted.

    "Interesting," he whispered, nting his hand on the jamb. "I wonder what sort of monster they brought into this world?"

    The second those words slipped past his lips, Abel jumped out of the window, only to ascend before crashing to the ground. Abel flew at full speed, eyes glinting with excitement, heading straight to the imperial pce.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ Haimirich Imperial Pce: Throne Hall ]</strong>

    "All arguments were raised and this royal court had addressed each of them with a careful approach, which now leads to this deliberation," said the man, facilitating another royal court session. His firm voice was echoing across the throne hall with the pin-drop silence from everyone in the room.

    "For the past months, our great empire had massed produce all sorts of sweets containing cocoa as the key ingredient. Tomemorate this sess, the majority of us approved of renaming this great country as a sign of loyalty to all the chocte in the world," the man continued with utter seriousness as if he detected nothing amiss in his statements. "Choctes are the best in this world, and thus, this great empire will own its name as a sign of greatness."

    "All hail chocte!" one minister yelled with a p, only to stop when everyone around him shot him a look.

    "And as part of the renaming of our empire to be approved by our almighty and great ruler, the only shining sun, we had also agreed to create a pce made of chocte," the man continued, and no one argued as this had been addressed from the previous court meetings. Basically, the majority of them had agreed to create an empire of chocte, as per the sovereign''s request.

    As they continued to read tonight''s court meeting before the signing of this verdict, the person sitting on the golden throne was munching a bar of chocte. A pair of bright crimson with a faint tint of green underneath scanned the throne hall. Little feet were swinging back and forth as they didn''t reach the floor.

    When the minister facilitating the court meeting looked back at the person sitting on the throne, his eyes sparkled as if his heart had just melted like a bar of melted chocte. He patted his chest and turned to face the rest of the ministers standing before the throne.

    "Since no one had objected to our dearest sovereign''s wishes, the renaming of the empire will nowmence." The man announced with a firm voice, very different from the expression he showed at the sight of the sovereign sitting on the throne.

    Multiple people approached the throne while carrying a table with the royal seal and a document on top of it. They carefully ced it in front of the throne so the sovereign could sign it, and this empire would be officially renamed. Everyone waited with bated breaths as they watched a little hand reaching for the pen, moving it to the document to sign it.

    However, just before the tip of the quill could touch the document, everyone jumped when someone suddenly barged into the door. Everyone slowly turned their heads at the door, catching a figure standing leisurely, and as if a spell was broken, the life in their eyes returned, which was immediately reced with confusion.

    "I was wondering what sort of guest who came to entertain me, but s... I didn''t expect this." Abel let out an amused scoff as his eyes fell on the person sitting on his golden throne. As soon as he did, thetter''s eyes lit up upon meeting Abel''s eyes. A silver-haired toddler jumped from her seat, running down the steps, making the hazel streak of her hair flow back.

    With a bright, adorable grin, she called. "Grandpa!"

 Chapter 471 A Cockroach?

    Abel had guessed what sort of devil came to the Haimirich Empire, but he didn''t have a clear image of who it could be. All he knew was that he could be a glutton who was obsessed with sweets. He didn''t expect to see a young, chubby girl, who seemed she had just learned how to walk on her own, sitting on his throne.

    "Grandpa!"

    Abel looked down as the little girl hugged his thigh, looking up at Abel with a bright grin. He tilted his head to the side, studying the girl''s adorable face, and then her silver hair with a hazel streak.

    "A cockroach?" he mumbled with genuine wonder in his voice.

    "Your бк Your Majesty? What is бк what is going on? Why are you...?" the minister near Abel stuttered in confusion, trailing off as soon as he met Abel''s nonchnt eyes.

    ? All the ministers in the royal court shared the same puzzlement in their eyes, appalled at the current situation. Their eyes fell on the little girl clinging to the emperor, making them gasp in horror. However, before they could worry about the little girl''s life, everyone noticed the uniforms they were wearing.

    Looking at each other, shame and another wave of confusion struck them. Who wouldn''t? Each and every one of them was wearing shy attires, almost looking like jesters in a circus. Their brains instantly went nk, trying to figure out what got into them to wear such shy and embarrassing clothes but to no avail.

    No one remembered. Their memories were hazy.

    Everyone snapped out of their trance when the little girl''s voice pierced the air. Slowly and carefully, they set their eyes on the little girl hugging the emperor''s thigh. This time, they gasped in horror once more, realizing the little girl was digging her own grave at such a young age!

    Who allowed her in this royal court?!

    "Grandpa!" the little girl called, grinning from ear to ear. "You''re back~!"

    Abel blinked twice, eyes on her chubby cheeks. "Get off me," came out a cool voice, only to feel the little girl''s grip tighten.

    "I will kick you," he added, but the little girl didn''t budge. Her eyes didn''t show the slightest trace of fear, looking directly into his sharp eyes.

    A shallow breath slipped past Abel''s lips as he marched towards his throne. As he did so, everyone couldn''t help but stare at the little girl clinging to the emperor''s leg like a monkey. Abel didn''t sit on his throne, stopping on the first step up, and turning around to face the minister.

    "How dare you all?" he asked, making everyone freeze in fear and confusion.

    ''What did they do?'' they wondered in their heads.

    "How dare you attempt to rename Haimirich to Chocte? If I am going to rename this empire, I''d choose potato," Abel continued, but he didn''t sound as angry as everyone expected. If anything, he sounded... confused himself. It was as if he still hadn''t decided whether to get angry or let it slip.

    Abel nted his hands on his hips, unbothered by the little girl still clinging to his leg like a monkey. "What am I going to do with you all?"

    "Your Majesty! Please have mercy on us! We... we have no idea what is going on ourselves!"<sub> </sub>

    "Yes, Your Majesty. We would investigate what happened in here!"

    "Who is this child''s father!? How dare you take your child with you in this sacred ce?!"

    The little girl frowned as the ministers voiced out their pleas and exnations whilst finding who took her inside. Just before the emperor came, everyone was too kind to her. But now, they had aplete change of heart.

    "The story of little Margaret isn''t like that," came out an adorable voice as the girl pouted. "Her grandpa was happy when he returned with a bunch of chocte in his backyard."

    "Little Margaret grew choctes in the backyard, not turn an entire empire into choctes, little girl." The girl looked up at Abel, whom she was clinging to as he exined the difference.

    "You know the story of little Margaret?" her eyes sparkled in awe, making Abel look away irritably.

    "I would rather wee an old folk... but to think my visitor is a child..." Abel let out a faint huff, raising a finger to silence the minister from singing their disbelief. "What happened here tonight will not leave this royal court. If I hear this being talked about somewhere... I won''t let it slip."

    "Ye бк Yes, Your Majesty!" answered the ministers in unison; they were used to Abel''s antics and warnings. If the emperor told them to shut up, they must hold their breaths as well. Warning them not to let this out of the royal court also meant they would take this scenario to their graves.

    "That''s all. You may now go home to your families." He waved nonchntly, looking down at the little girl who was still staring at him while hugging his thigh. "Get off."

    "No." The little girl hugged his legs tighter. Abel raised his leg and kicked in the air, but to no avail. The girl clung to him like a piece of gum and didn''t budge even when she was up in the air.

    Meanwhile, the ministers who were dismissed looked at Abel in confusion. There was never a time Abel ended the meeting with such strange words. It was usually Abel scoffing and leaving without a word or just a simple wave. However, none of them was able to dwell on such a strange sentence as they watched the emperor attempt to free himself from the girl''s grip.

    "I said..." Abel paused, shifting his pair of glinting eyes at the ministers.

    "Ye бк yes!" everyone shouted in unison, and without thinking twice, they cowered away before the emperor snapped. No one wanted to see him snap that little girl''s neck like a twig and quench his anger at smashing a few skulls near him. Although the ministers were under a powerful spell for months and unaware of the emperor''s absence, their hearts remembered the peacefulness of their work environment.

    Therefore, they all couldn''t shrug off the feeling of returning to those days treading on thin ice. It was as if their hearts were mourning, but their minds were confused.

    "I said, get off," Abel repeated with a dead voice, but the little girl shook her head.

    "You''ll leave."

    "Of course I will." His response only made her grip tighten. Seeing the stubbornness of the little girl, Abel simply clicked his tongue and walked away with a child clinging to his legs like an essory.

 Chapter 472 My Old Friend

    "Isaiah."

    Abel walked away from the throne hall with a child on his leg as an essory. As he marched through the hallway, he called Isaiah, and thetter appeared out of nowhere from behind the emperor.

    "Where''s Conan?" asked Abel without looking back. His steps didn''t falter as he headed straight to the emperor''s pce.

    "He went home to enjoy thest day of his freedom," Isaiah reported, as he had made sure Conan wouldn''t approach the imperial pce. His eyes then fell on the little girl, clinging to Abel''s leg. "This girl...?"

    The little girl looked back at Isaiah and smiled adorably. But her charms didn''t faze the coldhearted duke.

    "She''s the one who attempted to rename Haimirich to Chocte Empire. Make sure to charge her with treason," Abel exined, treating the little girl with utter nonchnce.

    Isaiah wasn''tpassionate enough as he tilted his head down. "Yes, Your Majesty."

    "Grandpa will kill me?" asked the little girl, blinking her doe eyes adorably.

    "No." This time, Isaiah was the person who answered this felon''s inquiry. "You will get tried in the royal court first and then you''ll get executed in the za."

    "Ohh..." The little girl nodded in understanding as if she didn''t understand the gravity of her crimes. "How will you execute me?"

    "Depends on the court result."

    "Can you bring me choctes?"

    "No."

    The little girl frowned as she hugged Abel''s leg tighter. "I don''t want to get tried, then."

    "That''s not for you to decide."

    "Grandpa''s friend is a wicked witch." The little girl mumbled, huffing, as she looked away from Isaiah. "No likey."

    Isaiah, as usual, didn''t react to the little girl''s remarks. Although he was a little surprised, the little girl knew what he was. Not many would understand Isaiah''s disposition at first nce, but then again, this little girl exhibited remarkable talent by putting up a spell Isaiah put up in the imperial pce to protect it. Although it wasn''t the most powerful spell Isaiah could do, a normal witch would still have a hard time undoing it or using a different spell to fight it.

    As Isaiah scrutinized the little girl clinging to the emperor''s leg like a monkey, Abel didn''t care about her anymore. He walked normally, eyes ahead, and his mind could only think of finishing whatever business he needed to settle in this ce so he could return to the inn where he left Aries.

    It didn''t take long when the three of them arrived at the emperor''s pce. Abel didn''t stop until he was standing in front of the emperor''s pce.

    nting his palm on the door, it creaked loudly as he pushed it open.

    "I knew it," he breathed out as soon as his eyesnded on the figure lying on the emperor''s bed. Abel''s expression sharpened, stepping foot inside the chamber and stopping midway. Isaiah followed behind him, while the little girl finally jumped away and run towards the side of the bed.

    "Grandpa~!" the little girl called sweetly, jumping to the side of the bed. Her little arms were over the edge of the mattress, pushing herself up while her scant feet pedaled in the air. Anyone who was watching her climbs the bed would find her adorable, but not these men''s rotten, cold heart.<sub> </sub>

    Abel and Isaiah kept their sharp gaze on the bed as the little girl sat beside the person lying motionless on it. Their expression was solemn, but there was no trace of anger or pleasure in their eyes.

    "What is he doing here?" Abel inquired, watching the little girl look back at them. "Did you bring him here?"

    The little girl nodded, blinking almost innocently.

    "Why did you bring this person here?" he threw the follow-up question almost immediately, but the girl didn''t answer. Abel didn''t force the child to answer his question, since he already had a good grasp of the situation. "Where are your travelpanions?"

    The little girl pointed at the man lying motionless on the bed.

    "Just you two?" this time, Isaiah raised a question with furrowed brows. There was no way this little girl could carry a grown man all on her own. Especially if his theory was correct, which Isaiah was certain was the case, then she must''ve done something.

    "I asked for the uncles'' help and they carried him on our journey to meet grandpa," exined the little girl honestly.

    "Where are those uncles now?" Isaiah pried, and the little girl pointed in a certain direction.

    "Behind the pce."

    "Isaiah," called Abel, and Isaiah immediately respond with, "I will meet them," before he left without another word.

    When Isaiah left, Abel kept his eyes locked on the little girl. He stayed on his spot before marching forward until he was standing on the side of the bed. His eyes didn''t linger on the child but on the middle-aged man sleeping soundlessly on the bed.

    "Hah... this is why I said I don''t want to meet them," he mumbled. "Meeting them would only mean they were bringing trouble."

    His eyelids drooped, staring at the middle-aged man''s face. "Who did this to you...?" Abel whispered, eyes glinting with killing intent. "... Your Majesty?"

    "Some bad guys set his house on fire." Abel shifted his eyes to the little girl''s adorable face. "Grandpa was fighting all on his own, so I took him away with me."

    "I see..." Abel rocked his head in understanding, snapping his eyes ever so tenderly on the person sleeping on the bed. "He is always so foolish... he never changes."

    His expression stiffened as his eyes exuded murderous intent. "You are always so old-fashion, my old friend. This is not the scenario I had in my head for our reunion."

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Meanwhile, at the back of the Imperial Pce...

    Isaiah stood in front of the newly dug soil in the middle of the garden. He didn''t need to look around as there was no person lingering in the area, but he knew there were bodies underneath the ground.

    "How polite," he muttered, staring at the three new graves with some chocte bar as their tomb stone. "At least, she cleaned up their bodies and didn''t let them rot to attract insect."

 Chapter 473 [Bonus Chapter]Can Sunny Take A Bite?

    "Don''t make the same mistake..."

    "Aries..."

    "Don''t make the same mistake as we did..."

    "Aries..."

    Aries''s brows furrowed as she moaned, opening her eyes ever so slowly. From her blurry vision, she caught something silver. She blinked weakly, and the face hovering over her slowly grew clearer.

    "Huh?" The space between her brows creased, staring back at the adorable doll looking at her up close. Mesmerized by the little girl''s charm, she raised a hand and poked the girl''s chubby cheek. To her surprise, she felt something squishy as the girl''s cheek bounced slightly.

    "Darling, I''m here." Aries flinched when she heard Abel''s voice to her side. She turned her head, only to see Abel lying on his side with his temple propping on his knuckles.

    Aries blinked multiple times while staring at Abel, and then her pupils dted as she turned to the little girl on her other side. Her mouth fell open upon realizing she was being sandwiched between a little girl and Abel; both of them looking at her in silence.

    "Grandmama," called the little girl, making Aries''s breath hitch.

    "I told you to call her Gorgeous," came out Abel''s nonchnt voice, casting the little girl a sidelong nce. "Now, off you go. Shoo."

    "What...?" Aries''s lips quivered, confused at the situation she woke up to. What happened while she was sleeping?

    "Are you going to do morning exercise?" the little girl asked to Abel, and thetter nodded.

    "Yes. Unless you want to watch, I don''t mind teaching you a thing or two бк" His mouth fell open when a hand struck his chest, arching a brow at Aries.

    "What, watch?" Aries gasped, propping her elbow to sit up. She looked at the little girl sitting beside her, studying her ash-colored hair with a streak of hazel on its turfs. Her eyes were crimson just like Abel''s, but when Aries stared longer, she noticed the olive tint undertone. Aries then looked at Abel and realized the little girl and Abel didn''t bear any sign they were nning to exin the situation.

    "What did I miss while I''m sleeping?" she asked, only for her face to contort when the little girl answered.

    "Grandmama, you were sleeping for decades and missed my papa."

    "Pardon?" Aries gasped and turned to Abel for help. Thetter shrugged nonchntly.

    "Wee back to the real world, darling." Abel frowned when her handnded on his shoulder once again, but this time, her p was much stronger than thest.

    "Stop messing with me, Abel." Aries ground her teeth and nced at the little girl with conflict. Her heart softened at the adorable charm of the little girl. "So cute..."

    "Darling, if you think I taught her how to bluff, you are gravely wrong." His expression died, watching his wife marvel at the girl''s deadly charms instead of focusing on him. He kept his promise to return even before she woke up, but his wife wasn''t showering him with affection as expected.

    "I didn''t say you taught her, but don''t condone it or go along with it just to push the me on the childter on." Aries kept her eyes on the little girl and smiled warmly. However, before she could grow chummy with the child, her brows creased once again, and set her eyes back to Abel.<sub> </sub>

    "Again, what is going on...?" Aries inquired, but then, her eyes dted in horror. "You didn''t abduct someone else''s child because of that ''family man'' subject we had yesterday, right?"

    "I am gravely hurt by this usation. It seemed my wife truly see me in such a terrible light."

    "But, who бк I mean, how?" She raised her brows, setting her baffled eyes on the little girl. Thetter''s lips stretched broader until her eyes were squinting.

    "She''s my visitor." Aries turned her attention to Abel upon his remarks. "She''s the one who attempted to rename Haimirich to Chocte."

    "What...?" Her brows knitted even more, remembering her discussion with Abel yesterday. Her eyes popped open in panic, only to heave a sigh of relief when Abel added.

    ? "She''s not Marse."

    "Gosh... I thought she was your sister." Aries patted her chest and chuckled, remembering Abel mentioning that his sister ran away from home when she was an infant and then came back as a toddler.

    When she recovered, Aries let out a deep exhale and gazed at the little girl. Her lips curled up warmly.

    "So, what is your name?" she asked politely, raising her brows while waiting patiently for the little girl''s response. However, thetter simply blinked and didn''t answer her question.

    "I''m hungry."

    "Oh." Aries nodded, turning to Abel. Thetter tilted his head to the side, looking all puzzled.

    "She''s hungry!" she whisper-yelled, in disbelief at how could he be so uncaring of this adorable child?

    "Darling, she already had a feast before we came in here," Abel exined, and then shifted his eyes to the girl. "Can''t you see she needs to diet? She''s too heavy."

    "She''s a child..." Aries trailed off when small hands held her wrist. Her brows rose in surprise when the little girl opened her mouth, about to take a bite on her wrist. However, before the little girl could bite her, Abel pressed his index on the girl''s forehead to stop her.

    "Hey, do you want to die?" his voice hit a level of low. His eyes were dull, but they were enough to send a chill down Aries''s spine. The little girl looked back at him and blinked.

    "Wait... what..." Aries chuckled awkwardly, lowering her head, only to freeze on the spot. Unlike most children, who would cry at the situation, the little girl didn''t bear the slightest fear. Not just that, but what actually surprised Aries was those little canines of the little girl.

    The little girl let Aries''s hand go and frowned. She then looked up at Aries, sporting the cutest puppy eyes. Aries held her breath at the level of cuteness right before her, almost getting angry at Abel for saying such harsh words to a child like her.

    "Sorry, I forgot to ask for permission. That''s not very polite," said the little girl. "Can Sunny take a bite?"

    "..."

 Chapter 474 [Bonus Chapter]Its Their Problem, Not Abels.

    "Can Sunny take a bite?"

    Aries looked at the young girl named Sunny in disbelief. Her lips opened and closed, unable to agree or disagree with Sunny''s request.

    "Tsk. Whoever taught you this level of politeness must be the nicest, rudest, most caring nonchnt devil-may-care jackass." Abel clicked his tongue, pushing himself to sit upright. He pointed a finger at Sunny, waiting for her to look back at him before he continued. "My wife is off-limits, little crumb. The second you sink your fangs into her, choctes will cease to exist."

    Sunny frowned, teary eyes as she looked back at Aries. "I''m sorry."

    "Aww... it''s fine." Aries''s heart softened as she rubbed Sunny''s back. However, she couldn''t get angry at Abel, as he was simply concerned about her well-being. "He may sound a little harsh, but he didn''t mean it that way."

    "I meant it."

    "See? He said he didn''t." Aries ignored him, pinching Sunny''s cheek mildly. "So your name is Sunny?"

    "Mhm."

    "Who in their sound mind will name a child Sunny?" Abel wondered, only to get ignored by Aries.

    "I''m Aries." Her smile grew brighter as she motioned her hand in Abel''s direction. "And his name is Abel. He''s my husband. Care to tell me where your parents are?"

    "I don''t know. They left Sunny."

    "What?" Aries gasped in disbelief, assuming Sunny''s parents abandoned her. How could they!?

    "Mother and Father went on a vacation to make another baby... that''s what Tilly said."

    "Tilly?"

    "Short for Mathilda." Aries raised her brows and shot Abel a look when he exined. "That child''s father is Ameria''s son."

    "Ameria... your other sister?"

    "Yes. That''s why she''s my..." Abel paused, setting his eyes on the little girl. "She''s my granddaughter, apparently."

    "Granddaughter..." Aries chuckled awkwardly, biting her inner lower lip.

    If Sunny was Abel''s granddaughter, then, since Aries was Abel''s wife, Sunny was also her granddaughter. Did that mean she now had a nephew who could be older than her, and now a grandmother? Aries wasn''t even sure if this child was just a child, or already a hundred times older than her, since Sunny was obviously a vampire.

    "How бк how old are you?" she blurted out, biting her tongue at the realization. There were many things to focus on, and Aries only realized her question was the least important one.

    Sunny raised three fingers and answered, "three."

    "Three... years old?"

    "Darling, what''s with that cautious tone?" Abel''s eyes fastened with amusement. "Are you perhaps assuming she meant three decades?"

    "Well... I don''t want to be rude." Aries shrugged, casting Sunny''s silver hair a cursory nce.

    "Haha. How cute." He chuckled, snapping his eyes at Sunny. "She''s only three years old, darling."

    "Oh." Aries rocked her head.

    "My brother is nine бк ten, I think."

    "That''s not a bad gap. Your parents surely studied family nning." Abel mused.

    "So where are they? They really left Sunny?" Aries asked after several seconds before they getpletely sidetracked.

    "Mhm."

    "How could they...?"<sub> </sub>

    "It''s not her parents'' fault, darling." Aries frowned when Abel spoke. "They entrust this little child to my sister, but... well, I guess it''s their fault. How can they trust Mathilda to look after a child when she can''t even take care of herself?"

    "Tilly is cool."

    "Literally, she is. She''s dead from the inside." Abel shrugged nonchntly. "But you said you had a brother."

    "Yes." Sunny nodded and was immediately followed by another question from Abel.

    "Where is he?"

    "Tilly took her on an adventure." Sunny blinked innocently. "Tilly said I should stay since it''s too dangerous for me toe."

    "You''re lying." Abel''s eyelids drooped. "Don''t lie to me, especially after taking my precious quality time with my wife."

    Sunny frowned, clutching the sheet over Aries''sp. "Tilly said I should stay and observe the situation on the maind."

    "The Maind?" Aries mumbled. "Thend of the vampires?"

    "It fell." Her brows rose as she refocused her attention on Abel. Thetter was stretching his neck from one side to the other, eyes closed.

    "What fell?"

    "The royal family." Aries moved her gaze back to Sunny as thetter rified. "It fell with a boom."

    "That''s... bad news for us?" she asked awkwardly since Aries already had a hunch, but it was better if it was clear. Sunny nodded.

    "The royal family had always protected the Grimsbanne."

    "So, they were targeting your family now?"

    Sunny tilted her head to the side, causing Aries to furrow her brows as well. The puzzlement in the little girl''s eyes brought this unsettling feeling into Aries''s heart as if she just asked a silly question.

    "The Royal Family had protected our n... or rather, they were the mediator between us and the rest. And that, we owe them a great debt." Aries slowly shifted her shaking eyes to Abel, only to see the smirk on his face. Her worry was easily squashed down, noticing Sunny smile as if Aries was simply overreacting.

    "But without the royal family... I don''t see any reason why I need to hold back if they ever set foot in my territory." His eyes glinted with amusement, making Sunny p with twinkling eyes. "I would like to see them try."

    "In other words, it''s their problem, not grandpa''s! This is why Tilly said I should stay with Grandpa. She said he had many choctes!" Sunny cheered, showing Abel a thumbs up. "And very rich he doesn''t have problems!"

    "So, you''re the weird kid?" Abel lowered his head to look up at Sunny up close. "You remind me of someone."

    "My other grandma?"

    "Yes. That woman."

    Sunny grinned. "Tilly said if I meet that granny, I should run away as far away as possible!"

    "Is she really that dangerous?" Aries mumbled, recalling Abel''s warning yesterday. What Sunny said just now sounded uncannily the same as Abel''s.

    "Mhm! We were all warned about her." Sunny blinked. "That''s why I told Pretty Grandma that everyone is on the maind when I bumped into her."

    "You met Marse?" Abel arched a brow.

    "Mhm. When I arrived here. She was angry and..." Sunny rubbed her chin as she tried to recall something. "... Ma бк Maganti? I think I heard her say she was going there to meet grandpa."

    "What? Abel!" Aries instantly panicked, only to calm down when Abel waved.

    "She won''t be there. We would''ve met her if she didn''t listen to this little glutton." Abel smiled from ear to ear, facing Sunny. "If I were you, run now. She will disintegrate you if she realized you lied."

 Chapter 475 [Bonus Chapter]I Like You Now

    Aries smiled warmly while watching Sunny sitting across from her. She couldn''t help but giggle every time the girls'' chubby cheeks bounce along with the movements of the carriage. Her morning was one of the strangest mornings she woke up to, but nheless, in a good way. Abel might not be the first person she saw, but Sunny was too adorable.

    ''I can''t believe she''s just three,'' she thought, recalling ric wasn''t this mature when she was at this age. Even Aries''s father often told her it took Aries some time to pick things up. ''I guess it has something to do with their kind. I guess vampires have more geniuses.''

    Her eyes squinted in amusement at the thought that crossed her head. Throughout their journey, Aries had seen quite a few things that fascinated her. If she hadn''t seen it herself, she wouldn''t even believe such speed was possible.

    "She''ll melt if you keep looking at her." Aries snapped her eyes when Abel bumped his shoulder against her side to get her attention. "She''s made of choctes."

    She chuckled. "Be a little nicer to her."

    "I am being nice, darling. I could''ve left her in the inn, but she clung to you like gum."

    "Hmm... you''re right. My husband is so nice." She hooked her arm around his, resting her chin on his shoulder. "Super nice. You returned."

    Abel arched a brow, eyes on her. "I keep my word."

    "You do, and I think you''re so handsome because of it."

    "Even if I don''t, my face will be the same."

    "The appeal will be different."

    "Good point."

    While Aries coaxed Abel, Sunny darted her eyes between the two of them. She then slipped her hand into her dress''s secret pocket to take out a bar of unwrapped chocte, munching it in delight.

    "Tsk." Aries drew her head back when Abel lowered his head to im her lips. "There''s a child present."

    "It''s fine. My father always steals my mother from Sunny to kiss her and make our family big," Sunny exined as if she was already numbed with such a scenario unfolding right before her. "Sunny understands Grandpa."

    "I like you now." Abel pointed at the little girl and then cast his wife a knowing look. "If her parents weren''t ashamed of parading their indecency, why should we?"

    "They''re not parading it. Mother and Father are careful but Sunny always follows Tilly."

    "You don''t have to exin, Glutton."

    "Sunny." Aries pinched his leg, correcting him through her gritted teeth. "Sunny has a name, and it''s Sunny, not Glutton."

    "But look at her." Abel looked at the little girl from head to toe, catching some speck of dirt on the chocte she was eating. "She''s insatiable."

    "Children likes sweet, so it''s normal."

    "Grandma is right. Sunny likes sweet and it''s normal. Grandpa likes bitter things, that''s why she likes Grandma."

    "Pardon?" Aries furrowed her brows, unable to discern if that was meant as an insult or a harmless thought of a child.

    "Grandma''s blood isn''t..." Sunny trailed off when she noticed the deadly look in Abel''s eyes.<sub> </sub>

    "Isn''t, what?" Aries cocked her head to the side and then nced at Abel. "Don''t scare her."

    "I''m not scaring her, I''m warning her."

    "That''s the same."

    "Darling, if you think this little devil is a normal child, you''re entirely wrong." Abel cocked his head back and tenderly snapped his eyes to Aries. "She''s, indeed, three years old, but she can snap your neck without batting an eye."

    Horror instantly filled Aries''s eyes, looking back at Sunny, only to see the little girl grin brightly. Up until this point, Aries believed this little girl was just as adorable and innocent as she appeared. She had almost forgotten Sunny was a vampire, and what sort of nature they had.

    "I''m not Grandpa, so Grandma shouldn''t worry," Sunny reassured with a sweet smile, munching the bar of chocte delightfully.

    "I think she''s closer to Mathilda more than her parents," Abel crooned, studying Sunny one more time.

    "Tilly taught us alchemy and spells. I think Grandma should learn how to do spells since it''ll be a waste to let it lie dormant," the little girl casually remarked, causing Aries to furrow her brows.

    "I can...?"

    "Of course you can. I told you, didn''t I? You can know those things."

    Aries stared at Abel''s indifferent countenance, recalling the time she asked Abel about his curse and his reply was a question. Her throat bobbed as the lines between her brow deepened.

    "What do you mean...?"

    "That... inside you." Aries twisted her neck, and her eyes instantly fell on Sunny''s adorable eyes. "Grandpa will add charges to my crime if I say anything further."

    "Abel, what is she saying?" Aries refocused her attention on Abel, but thetter shrugged. Abel adjusted his position until he was facing her squarely.

    "Honestly, I don''t want you learning these kinds of stuff, darling. However, if you want, then you have to remember what''s inside you."

    "How can I do that?"

    "Beats me." Abel shrugged indifferently. "You have to know first before you ask for my help. This isn''t as simple as destroying an empire."

    He leaned back, resting his leg over the other, eyes still on Aries. "I will not destroy you by forcing you to remember the things you yourself force to forget."

    "What...?" Aries whispered, drowning in a river of confusion at his remarks. Looking at him, it seemed Abel was adamant about keeping his mouth shut, just like Sunny.

    ''Something inside me?'' she wondered, lowering her eyes to ponder about it. ''Things I forced myself to forget?''

    For Aries, Abel''s words were akin to a riddle. There were times Aries forced herself to forget certain memories, but s, no matter how hard she tried, it never worked. Was there a time she seeded in those things? If so, what was it? Aries nced at Abel, who was watching Sunny eating in dismay, and then at Sunny, who didn''t care about the look in her grandfather''s eyes.

    Obviously, the two of them already knew the answers to the myriads of questions in her head. But knowing Abel, he must''ve had a deep reason for not rifying it. In that case, Aries had no choice but to listen to his advice.

    ''I had to remember it myself and decide if I will take Sunny''s advice.'' Aries mentally nodded in understanding, keeping her silence throughout the long ride back to the Vandran Residence.

 Chapter 476 [Bonus Chapter]They Make Good Compost

    The carriage Aries, Abel, and Sunny were riding in stopped in the capital when a group stopped it. Climaco furrowed his brows, watching a middle-aged man in a fancy butler suit approach him. He studied the butler''s nched hair that was neatly parted in the middle, his smart thin eyes behind those pince-nez, and the butler''s white mustache and beard.

    ''How elegant for a butler,'' Climaco thought, gaining this sense of awareness of how ragged and dirty he waspared to the butler.

    "Good day, Sir Knight. It is I, Gustav, the head butler in the Marquess''s Vandran''s manor." Gustav raised his arm across his abdomen, tilting his head down slightly. "I was told to wait for you and mydy to assist you on your way to the residence."

    "Uh..." Climaco cleared his throat, ncing back at the carriage.

    "I will see His Majesty." Gustav sported a polite smile.

    "Uh, yes, that''s better." Climaco swallowed down a mouthful of air as he watched the butler approach the carriage door. Dexter warned him, and Abel reassured him to stay until they met Gustav to make sure Aries would safely reach her home. Therefore, Climaco believed it was better if Abel meets the butler himself.

    "Mydy, it is I, Gustav..." Gustav announced politely, after knocking on the door a few times. "... I came after the Marquess'' orders to wee you to the capital."

    The butler stood silently in front of the shut door, keeping his modest demure at the silent response from the inside. When he blinked, the window abruptly slid open.

    "Greetings to Your Majesty." Gustav beckoned a neck bow as soon as he recognized the face, looking at him indifferently. However, Abel shut it closed right after he let out a dryugh. And yet, the butler maintained hisposure, holding his hand behind him.

    Meanwhile, inside the carriage, Aries tilted her head to the side when Abel shut the window closed. Her brows rose, scrutinizing Abel''s unmoved countenance.

    "Isn''t that...?" she trailed off cautiously. "It''s an impostor?"

    "No." Abel closed his eyes, keeping his arms folded under his chest while his leg was resting leisurely over the other.

    "Then, why...?"

    "Let them wait. I need to rest for a bit." He kept his eyes shut, not showing any sign he wanted to get off the carriage.

    Aries pursed her lips and smiled subtly, studying her husband''s calm side profile. It wouldn''t be nice to let the people outside wait, but this was Abel. She could tell him to go now and meet herter, but then again, Abel had beenpromising. So she didn''t dwell on other people''s inconvenience, since Abel''s feelings were more important to her.

    With that thought in mind, Aries moved closed, reducing the tiny distance between them. She wrapped her arms around his body, resting her temple on his shoulder de. As she did so, she didn''t notice Abel''s one eye peeking at her. His lips curled up in satisfaction.

    "You remind me of my Mama and Papa," Sunnymented, watching the two across from her. "My father always needs my mother''s affection, and he''s always the happiest when she does."

    Aries smiled. "They sound like a lovely couple."

    "Mhm." The little girl hummed a short tune, turning her head to the shut window. "Is that the butler in grandma''s house?"

    "His name is Gustav. He''s very efficient and reliable."

    "Ohh... does he teach you how to handle the garden properly as well?" Sunny blinked. Her eyes gleamed with genuine wonder, watching Aries smile subtly.

    "Gustav takes care of the matters of the manor, but my brother teaches me gardening. He had a greenhouse full of nts. You can go there if you like gardens."

    "Sunny doesn''t like gardens, but it reminds me of Mister Fabian."<sub> </sub>

    "Who is Mister Fabian?" asked Aries in a soothing voice, squeezing her body against Abel''s like a clingy wife. But her husband needed more reassurance, and she was doing it in her ''subtle'' way.

    "The head butler in Tilly''s house."

    "Ohh..."

    "He enjoys gardening, but he always gets scolded by Mother."

    Aries chuckled. "Why?"

    "Because he teaches me how."

    "That''s strange." Aries furrowed her brows, a little baffled at Sunny''s story. She looked at the little girl with intrigue. So far, based on her observation, Sunny was not only mature and clever, but she would constantly share short stories that would leave gigantic question marks in her head. They all still sounded like she came from a good, happy family with a peacefully strange environment.

    While Aries was staring at Sunny silently, thetter cocked her head to the side. Her every blink appeared more adorable, paired with her pinkish chubby cheek.

    "Sunny misses Mama and Papa," she mumbled, snapping Aries back from her trance.

    Thetter''s eyes softened, smiling subtly at the little child. Until now, Aries couldn''t fully understand why her parents would leave her. Abel''s guess was that they allowed Tilly to babysit Sunny, but why would Tilly leave her alone and take her brother? Moreover, how did Sunny get into Haimirich?

    There were tons of questions in Aries''s head, but she was in no position to worry about these things. Abel reassured her, and Aries had other things to focus on. For example, those words Abel uttered earlier regarding some sort of forgotten memories or something.

    "Grandpa, will you take me there?" Sunny broke the brief silence, only to frown when she received an immediate and cold refusal from Abel.

    Abel slowly opened his eyes, his gazending immediately on the little girl across from him. "If they want you back, then they will pick you up here. That is... if they want you back, but from what I''ve seen so far, feeding you is akin to feeding ten grown men. That is so much cost, sweetheart."

    "My father has so much money."

    "Good for him." Abel rocked his head and remained silent for a moment, staring at Sunny. "About Ameria..."

    "My father''s dead mother?"

    "So, she''s dead?" he asked, watching Sunny nod as an answer. "Good for her."

    "That''s what Tilly also said. Good for her."

    Aries''s brows twitched as she smiled awkwardly at their conversation. Who in the world would say such words to the dead? But Aries couldn''t judge since her inws seemed to be a bunch of entric people.

    ''But they wouldn''t be that bad, right? I mean, Sunny isn''t that strangeбн'' she told herself, only to trail off when Sunny spoke again.

    "Grandpa, you should learn more about gardening instead of letting the corpse rot in the bin. Mister Fabian told Sunny the dead are excellent fertilizers; they make goodpost."

 Chapter 477 [Bonus Chapter]Back To The Capital

    Abel idled in the carriage for a good hour until Isaiah and a few imperial knights arrived at the borders of the capital with a carriage. The people of the Marquess remained outside without a word ofint, making Climaco''s anxiety spike at the odd silence from inside the carriage and outside.

    Climaco raised his head at the group, approaching their vantage point. His brows furrowed, recognizing the person leading them. For some reason, the anxious knight heaved a sigh of relief at Isaiah''s presence, only to feel his heart thud as soon as Isaiah and the imperial knight halted.

    "Huh?" Climaco blinked, rubbing his eyes to see. He darted his gaze from the imperial knights and the knights from the marquess''s knight brigade. As a knight himself, Climaco instantly sensed the hostile air between the knights, making him gulp a mouthful of his own saliva.

    ''Right... I heard the Marquess, and the Emperor wasn''t really on good terms,'' he recalled, keeping his silence but raising his guard lest a fight broke out.

    Isaiah jumped from his steed, passing the reins to a knight who came with him. He approached Gustav''s side, keeping his chin up. The two didn''t exchange any words as they simply cast each other a brief look before Isaiah faced the carriage.

    "Your Majesty, I brought a carriage for you," announced Isaiah to the people inside the carriage. "The Marquess will be worried if Her Ladyship''s arrival is further dyed."

    Silence was the only response Isaiah got, and just like Gustav, the duke stayed rooted on his spot with his eyes glued on the carriage. Seeing this, Climaco gulped. Would they have to wait for another hour?

    Just as Climaco was wondering whether or not Abel would hitch outside, Isaiah took a step forward and opened the door ever so slowly. For the obvious reason, the knight held his breath lest Abel kicks him for suddenly intruding. To his relief, when Isaiah opened the door, Abel immediately hitched outside.

    "Good to see you again, Gustav," Abel greeted the old butler, making thetter bow slightly. He let out a dryugh and then offered his hand to Aries to assist her down.

    "It''s good to see you again, Gustav," Aries greeted with a smile.

    "I''m d that you were alright, mydy." Gustav smiled, ncing at the little girl still inside the carriage.

    "Darling, I told you you do not have toe down."

    Aries snapped her eyes at Abel and smiled upon seeing his somber front. She turned and offered her hand to Sunny, which the little girl sped before jumping out of the carriage.

    "I want to see my husband off," Aries exined when Sunnynded on the ground safely, looking up to face Abel. "Is there something wrong with that?"

    "But I n to see you off." He smiled, tipping his head at the carriage behind her. "Go in. I''ll go once you do."

    "No, Your Majesty. That is very rude of me. We will leave once you set off."

    "How sweet, but I''ll be fine."

    Aries shook her head mildly. "I know you will be fine, but it is still impolite."<sub> </sub>

    "Then shall I say it''s an order from the emperor himself?" His brows rose, keeping his bright smile. Irritation fastened across her eyes, but she kept her smile intact.

    Meanwhile, the people who were around, listening to them, could only dart their eyes between the two. Gustav handpicked the knights from the marquess''s brigade, and thus, was trained not to pry and simply see the situation as it was since it involved the young mistress of the Vandran. It was the same as those from the imperial pce.

    Those who knew about Aries and Abel''s rtionship barely had any thoughts about this dilemma between lovers. The only person who had more say in it was Climaco, since he couldn''t believe his master was flirting like a young maiden with the emperor.

    Things were still different when they were back in the Maganti Empire and during their journey. Climaco had always known Abel was an emperor, but now that he was seeing the emperor''s insignia on the knight''s uniform and how these knights carried themselves, did he actuallyprehend Abel was, indeed, an emperor and a tyrant.

    "Alright, then." Aries mentally threw her hands in the air, but physically curtsied. "Thank you for your help, Your Majesty."

    "Anything for you, my darling."

    She raised her gaze to him and nodded slightly before ncing at Gustav. The butler smiled, walking to her side to assist her back to the carriage. When Aries sat down inside the carriage, she cast Abel a smile and then waved at Sunny. Her heart warmed up when Sunny held Abel''s pinky and waved back.

    "Mydy," Gustav called, signaling her to give him the go signal before he closed the door.

    Aries bit her inner lip, staring at Abel and then at Sunny. She clutched her skirt as she had a long eye-to-eye contact with Abel. When he smiled reassuringly, Aries nodded.

    "Let''s go, Gustav." She cast Gustav a look, and thetter carefully shut the door.

    Gustav didn''t idle as he signaled the knights to prepare, after bowing at Abel. Everyone moved efficiently, riding their steeds while Gustav entered another small carriage. When the horses'' neigh erupted in the air, Aries''s eyes softened, still looking back at Abel standing outside the carriage.

    <strong>''See you tonight,''</strong> Abel mouthed carefully, making her smile.

    <strong>''I''ll wait for you.''</strong> Aries then waved as the carriage moved slowly, keeping her eyes on him as the distance grew farther. A deep exhale slipped past her lips when she could no longer see Abel''s figure without peeking her head out of the window.

    "I feel sad," she mumbled, touching the spot where Abel had perched previously. "But then again... he''ll surely visit me tonight."

    A subtle smile reced her frown, looking out of the window to see the gorgeous capital of Haimirich. Her lips stretched wider as the luster in her eyes grew clearer.

    "I''m back..." she whispered with a light heart, having this sense of liberty returning to this ce after almost a year of staying in another empire.

 Chapter 478 [Bonus Chapter]Seven Vices

    Abel stayed in the same spot for minutes as his eyes watched Aries''s carriage amble up the dirt road. The corner of his eyes slightly squinted, letting out a faint exhale.

    "Your Majesty." He snapped his eyes when Isaiah called solemnly from his side. "It''s time to return to the pce, Your Majesty."

    "Mhm..." Abel rocked his head, keeping his eyes on Aries''s carriage, which looked tinier every passing second. He stayed silent for a long time, and when his lips parted, an order came out.

    "Isaiah, lower all protection spell across Haimirich." His order caused the lines between Isaiah''s forehead to deepen. "Apparently, that spell in the pcest night wasn''t this child''s doing, but someone else."

    Isaiah nced down at Sunny, only to see thetter grin sweetly. "Someone else?"

    "Marse. She was here." Abel blinked ever so tenderly, setting his eyes on his reliable vassal. "And she will be back. I''d rather let here without a problem."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Isaiah lowered his head without raising any questions. The duke had been following Abel for many years, and even though he didn''t meet any of his family, Isaiah was somehow aware of Abel''s reasoning. There were two reasons Abel would lower the security of the empire: one was if he wanted to have some fun and thrill, and the other was... he didn''t want any expected visitors from causing trouble at the risk of endangering his own people.

    In other words, this person Abel was expecting was someone the emperor would take seriously.

    "And order Morro to make a trip to the Great Heart''s Empire." Isaiah raised his eyes to face Abel as thetter raised a finger at the added order. "I need to hear the situation there."

    Abel then nced down at Sunny. "For Mathilda to leave the maind in this child''s care... there must be an even bigger problem." He sighed, looking a little irritated.

    "Fix it if you can on your own..." he continued, keeping his eyes at Sunny''s adorable doe eyes. "Hey kid, how many existing Grimsbanne are out there? From my count, there are six: you, your brother, your father, my sisters, and me. Was there another one?"

    Sunny blinked and then smiled brightly. "Mother and Father often mentioned my cousin, and Tilly had always been worried about him! Though Sunny has never seen him."

    As soon as Abel heard her response, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Seeing the slight distressing from Abel, Isaiah couldn''t help but knit his brows. The duke had forgotten thest time he had seen Abel react the way he was reacting now. Although the emperor remained calm, one could tell he received a piece of bad news.

    "Seven," Abel whispered, letting out a shallow huff as he raised his eyes at Isaiah. "Isaiah, go and see the situation in that ce yourself. Take Morro with you."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Isaiah bowed, but this time, he added, "will you be alright?"

    Abel arched a brow, eyes glinting. "That question... should be asked to those who are about to cross me. I won''t let them off."

    Sunny grinned happily, now convinced Tilly didn''t lie to her when she said her big brother was reliable. She jumped and clutched Abel''s pinky when her grandfather sauntered off to the carriage Isaiah prepared for him.<sub> </sub>

    As the two walked away, Isaiah looked back at them. His eyes lingered on Abel''s back, and then on the little girl''s skipping figure. Abel raised his pinky, but because Sunny had a tight grip, she left the ground like a balloon and entered the carriage like that. Abel followed without looking back, and soon the carriage proceeded to return to the imperial pce.

    "Morro," Isaiah called under his breath, raising an arm to wee the raven flying down at full speed from nowhere. When Morronded on his arm, his eyes glinted. "His Majesty orders you to survey the Heart''s Empire. Meet me halfway once you''re done."

    He then tossed his arm, making the raven fly away from the empire to execute the emperor''s orders. Isaiah watched it in silence, lips drawn into a thin line.

    ? "Seven..." he whispered, making his eyes sharpen. Isaiah wouldn''t understand Abel''s dilemma until thetter mentioned that number. After all, certain people knew that sort of number and the dark prophecy it carried.

    "The seven seeds... each represent capital sin." Isaiah fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly, looking up at the clear sky with a tint of orange. "I should return before the next coven."

    <strong>******</strong>

    Meanwhile, far away from thend of Rikhill, was an istednd not known to the people outside. Thick smoke and the pungent scent of blood fogged the air, blurring the silhouette of a woman in a thick, ragged cloak red cloak. The woman stood in the middle of the fort motionless, eyes narrowing ahead without a care of the bodies scattered on the damped, red ground.

    When a mild gust of wind blew past her figure, the fog that was around her thinned out, revealing multiple people surrounding her. Her sharp pair of crimson glossed over her surrounding, catching more and more enemies appearing to subdue an intruder like her.

    "That lying piglet..." came out a rasped, dangerous voice. Her red lips curled up into a smirk, licking her lips in amusement. "... she better start running away to the ends of the world now or I''ll mince her alive."

    The womanughed with her lips closed, advancing to the nearest corpse. She carefully wrapped her fingers around the sword impaled on the person''s back, pulling it out easily. Using a part of her cloak, she wiped the de clean while looking around the people looking back at her warily.

    "What a bother," she muttered in exhaustion. "I cannot believe you are pointing your toys at such a beautiful maiden. So rude."

    She then raised the sword she looted, moving it across the audience surrounding her. Despite being surrounded, her crimson eyes never showed the slightest sign of fear. If anything, she looked a little bored.

    "You came here to kill me?" she asked, smirking when she received silence as their answer. "How cute, but there''s no need for such a heartwarming wee party. Killing you all means less problem for them... I''m not that kind."

    She smacked her lips as her eyes lit up. "But then again, don''t kill all of them until I resolve my own issues, alright?" Her lips stretched from ear to ear as she added, "see yah!"

    And without a moment''s notice, the woman suddenly slit her own throat even before the people surrounding her could react. The only time they realized what had happened was when her bodynded with a thud.

 Chapter 479 Welcome Back, My Lady.

    Aries''s separation anxiety slowly faded as she observed the bustling capital of Haimirich. It was the same as thest time she was in this ce: peaceful, lively, and the people had no worries with such a reliable emperor sitting on the throne. During their journey, Aries had always been curious about howe the most important figures of the empire could leave for months.

    Thanks to Conan, Aries was reassured everything was under control. Apparently, Isaiah put a powerful spell on the imperial pce. The spell wasn''t harmful; it was just that it would make the people who would enter the imperial pce do what was necessary. Annoying Abel wasn''t a necessity. Hence, they were safe. When the officials would leave the imperial pce, their memories would be a little hazy, and could only remember the recurring events of just working for the betterment of the empire.

    In other words, no one knew the emperor went on a vacation to ruin another empire along with a few of them. Aries slightly doubted that exnation at first, but now that she had seen the capital city, she had no choice but to believe it. Nothing seemed amiss, and everyone was just as joyful as ever.

    ? Aries arrived at the Vandran residence with a smile, which grew wider as the carriage approach the entrance of Dexter''s mansion.

    "He''s always a show-off," came out a mumble, giggling at the beeline of servants to wee her return. In the middle was Dexter, staring at the carriage with a solemn look stered across his face.

    When the carriage halted in front of the mansion''s portico, Aries had already shut the window. She drew a deep breath, sporting a more miserable look. From what she heard, Abel had only abducted Dexter and left a letter to Gustav about it. Hence, the servants in the Vandran residence were aware of the marquess''s absence.

    Even so, Aries still had to put on a show. After all, no matter how private the marquess was, nosey people were everywhere.

    The moment the door of the carriage was opened from the outside, Aries''s eyes were already watery. Turning to the person who opened it, a tear instantly fell from her eyes.

    "Brother!" she called in relief, almost jumping out of the carriage as she threw herself to Dexter. Thetter was quick enough to catch her, rubbing her trembling back on instinct. However, Aries still heard his deep sigh, as if he didn''t have time for this sort.

    "Have you been well?" he asked, looking down at her. Her face was buried in his chest, clutching his clothes. If he didn''t know better, he would have also thought what she experienced had traumatized her.

    "You''re safe now," Dexter reassured gently. "Wee home, Dani."

    Aries slowly raised her head and smiled subtly. "I''m home."

    The relief that fastened across her eyes wasn''t part of the act. Aries was truly relieved she was back to reim the life Abel and Dexter provided her. The two might have the strangest rtionship, but they were both important to her.

    Dexter smiled back gently, offering his arm for her to cling on. "You had a long journey. Let''s head inside first so you can rest."

    "Mhm." Aries held on his arm, marching with Dexter while the servants bowed and weed the princess of the Vandran estate. But just as they took three steps, she paused and looked back at the carriage coachman''s seat.

    "I already ordered to give your knight a proper lodging and things he might need," Dexter exined, making her sigh in relief.

    "Thank you."

    "Don''t worry about it."<sub> </sub>

    With that being said, the two of them sauntered toward the mansion. Despite knowing Aries made a stop in one of the towns, Dexter still assisted her back to her room to rest first. The servants had also busied themselves unloading the carriage''s luggage and assisting Climaco to settle in the residence.

    No one questioned Aries or Dexter regarding everything and left them alone when the two entered Aries''s chambers.

    "The capital looks lively as ever," said Aries as soon as she plopped her butt down on the soft settee. "Ahh... this feels nice."

    Dexter stood in front of the window, ncing back at her tardy posture as she raised her feet on the coffee table. A subtle smile dominated his face, seeing her stretch and getfortable after almost an entire month on the road.

    "Brother, is everyone in the residence knew about me?" she asked, propping her elbow against the armrest as she reclined to her side. "Was my cover blown now?"

    "No, not really." Aries furrowed her brows as she looked back, watching Dexter saunter to the armchair near the armrest she was leaning on. When he sat down, his brows rose as he added, "they knew about my absence, but Gustav had covered it up using a business trip as an excuse."

    "Oh..."

    "It''s nothing to be surprised about since there were times I would be gone for months whenever I go on an expedition."

    "How about the members of the aristocratic faction? You didn''t leave a word that you''ll leave."

    "I don''t owe them an exnation, nor do I need to inform them of my whereabouts. They will treat it as one of those days since I lost you."

    "You make it sound like I died."

    "But it was the same since His Majesty married off my sister." He shrugged, making Aries rock her head in understanding. "The aristocratic factions are full of hypocrites and greedy men. However, they were aware if they made a move without me, His Majesty will devour them alive. They''re not that foolish."

    Aries squinted her eyes while processing Dexter''s words. "Did Sir Conan abduct you because..." she trailed off when Dexter nodded even before she could finish.

    "Wait. You weren''t nning to destroy Haimirich if they left you behind, right?" she asked cautiously, only to scrunch her nose up when he smiled.

    "Don''t look at me like that. If destroying Haimirich had always been my n, then there were tons of means to do that. However, if they didn''t abduct me, the worst I''d do was create loads of problems to keep them busy for an entire year," he exined with a grin.

    "Goodness..." Aries shook her head slightly. "Now it makes sense why you, of all people, will be in Maganti. Sir Conan''s image in my head is slowly restoring. I can''t deny that the man had thought about it long and hard."

 Chapter 480 Can I Do It?

    Back when Aries took Danie, Dexter''s sister''s identity, Conan had already spread a rumor regarding the imperial faction being threatened by the marquess''s scheme. Everyone, even children, was aware the empire had yet weed an empress. The emperor was a tyrant, and even when the discussion regarding weing an empress would be brought up in the royal court, no one had pressed on about it that hard.

    Who would?

    The emperor was ruthless with a nasty record of debauchery. Even though many maidens in the high society would be mesmerized by the emperor''s beauty, his beguiling nature did not blind them. Or at least, his charms didn''t work on the selected nobledies Aries was able to befriend before she was married off.

    Just like how the news regarding Aries known as Danie recovered from her illness, and how the talks about the imperial faction marrying her off to avoid the marquess gaining more power in the royal court as his sister was the best candidate for an empress, it was the same with her return.

    Although the imperial pce was put under a spell, Conan had already prepared everything. Hence, while the brewing tension in the Maganti Empire was urring, rumors of the rebellion where Aries was had already circted in the Haimirich Empire. Many were worried and angry, especially those who were members of the aristocratic faction. Some didn''t have much reaction from it since they had seen iting.

    The rumors remained as rumors for months, with everyone forgetting their agenda the second they stepped foot in the imperial pce. The aristocratic faction couldn''t get a hold of Dexter as well, so everyone was left with myriads of questions without answers.

    In other words, everyone had expected the news of Aries''s (Danie) death or her return to the empire because Dexter wouldn''t sit still.

    "Wow..." Aries was in awe, staring at Dexter sitting on the head seat of the table in the estate''s grand dining hall. "I shouldmend Sir Conan for that. But how did he know when to start the rumor?"

    "He made an estimation and had ordered his people to spread it. He didn''t need any exact time, since rumors take a bit of time to take off." Dexter paused in slicing his steak, propping his arm against the edge of the table, eyes on Aries. "I hate to admit it, but he''s excellent at spreading rumors. Perhaps it was because he is nosey by nature."

    She chuckled, ncing around the dining hall. There were just the two of them, as per Dexter''s order to have some quality time with his sister.

    "Have you rested wellst night, though?" she asked, changing the subject since it seemed everything was under their control, just as they imed. "You haven''t been working all night, have you?"

    "I take care of myself, Dani. I rewarded myself with a good rest while Gustav reported the current state of affairs and everything I had missed during my absence." He shrugged. "Since I am now here, I will be preupied with the matters of the march and the royal court since the aristocratic faction will start pointing their fingers at the imperial factions."

    "Will that be alright?"

    "For me? Yes. For the Imperial Faction? They better prepare loads of bull to douse the royal court." He smirked, making Aries sigh. "Don''t worry about anything too much. You had a rough time the second you left the empire for another. Focus on recovering first."

    Aries nodded, smacking her lips mildly. "Well, that''s the n. I mean, I can''t do anything at this point but allow things to settle on their own. It''s not like this is the first time the two factions will fight over something."

    "That right." Dexter rocked his head, not a bit worried at the level of stress Conan would throw at his way. He was used to it and had also prepared his revenge for abducting him in the ugliest way. As he was about to resume his meal, his brow rose upon noticing her let out a long-suffering sigh.

    "What''s the matter?" he inquired out of in curiosity. "I told you don''t worry about the matters in the royal court too much. We''ll be fine."

    "No, it''s not that." Aries shook her head mildly. "I was simply wondering about something."<sub> </sub>

    "What, something?"

    Aries pursed her lips, weighing whether or not she would bring it up to Dexter. "About... something in me."

    "Something in you?" His brows knitted, peering at her with intrigue in his eyes.

    "Mhm. Abel mentioned something regarding witchcraft..." she trailed off, noticing the slight surprise in his eyes. "Can I do it?"

    "Did he tell you, you should?" he asked in disbelief, confirming her assumption that Dexter had known a thing or two.

    "So, I''m the only one who is left in the dark?" came out a mumble, lowering her eyes to think about what they knew that she didn''t. Aries could ask him about it, but she was certain Dexter''s answer would be just as vague as Abel''s and Sunny''s response.

    "Dani." Dexter put down his cutlery and waited until she raised her head. "Do you really have to... I mean, I know you trust him, but why... will you want to get a hold of such dangerous knowledge such as witchcraft?"

    "It''s not that, and Abel is unwilling to teach me himself. However, I cannot shrug off the feeling that I had forgotten something important... huh?" Aries trailed off as her brows instantly furrowed, making Dexter narrow his eyes as it seemed she had remembered something vital.

    "Maleficent," she whispered, raising her eyes, only to catch how his pupils dted in surprise. "Brother, now that I think about it, did you catch the fifth prince?"

    "You mean...?"

    "Javier," she rified. "During the revolt, I had in him myself. However, he mentioned some odd things and called me Maleficent. Do you have any idea what or who is she?"

    Dexter held his breath while looking into her curious eyes. "This Javier... knows Maleficent?" he asked, and Aries nodded profusely without a second hesitation.

    "What else does he know?" he inquired almost immediately, making her mull about her encounter with Javier.

    "Well, he said something about... me as his masterpiece or some sort." She shrugged, vaguely recalling herst encounter with the man since she was already bleeding heavily at that time. "I shouldn''t have killed him."

    "Dani." His expression grew solemn, catching her full attention. "I don''t know much about Maleficent, aside from her being a powerful witch. How she died or what power she possesses is still a mystery. However, what I am certain is His Majesty will not give you a hard time figuring it out yourself if he thinks it wasn''t dangerous."

    Dexter held her eyes solemnly as he paused. "Witches and vampires had never been on good terms. Do you know why vampires were wary of witches?" he asked, letting a minute pass in silence before he continued, "because they could subdue us since their curses were the same curse running deep in our bones. But that''s not all. There were many heavier reasons. I would rather agree to turn you into one of us than my sister wielding a dangerous prowess that would require heavy sacrifices."

 Chapter 481 A Well-Deserved Rest

    Throughout the dinner, Dexter willingly informed Aries of the general details of the rtionship between vampires and witches. From the information she had collected, witches and vampires apparently had the same origins. Although witches and warlocks such as Isaiah were biologically human, they weren''t livestock, vampires would want to devour.

    Dexter didn''t rify anything regarding Aries''s gift or curse, but he asserted it was a dangerous power to wield. Unlike vampires бк turned ones, in particr бк who had to sacrifice their means of survival by drinking blood, witches make more sacrifices in each powerful spell they cast.

    Each spell, especially ancient and ck magic, could harm even its own caster.

    Aries understood Dexter''s worry that her interest in witchcraft could lead to her own death. But it wasn''t like Aries had nned to blindly and stubbornly put herself in such aplicated situation. After all, despite all that talk regarding the rtionship between witches and vampires, Dexter didn''t give her direct answers to her questions.

    "Maleficent..." she whispered, hugging her knees while deep in a hot tub. "A powerful witch."

    Aries snapped her eyes and nced at the fading body art on her body. A deep sigh slipped past her lips, resting her forehead on her knees.

    "There are so many questions..." she grumbled in distress, feeling her head throb at the information filling her head. "... and barely have answers."

    Aries grunted before she stretched her limbs, resting her arms over the rims while reclining leisurely. She gazed at the ceiling before shaking her head and sshing water on her face.

    "Doesn''t matter!" she cheered, huffing in determination. "My brother is right. I just returned and shouldn''t bother with things like this for now!"

    Her expression grew firm, allowing her stiff muscles from that long journey to rx. It had been a hectic year for her. Ever since disembarking from the Haimirich to the Maganti empire, Aries barely had rest. After all, Abel didn''t give her a break on her way to the Maganti Empire. Although he barely touched her on their way back, being on the road all day long was still a hassle.

    Not to mention, Aries never stopped scheming during her stay in the Maganti Empire. Everyone in thatnd just never lost energy with their schemes, and she couldn''t rest a day since resting means falling a step behind them. Joaquin was a smart person, and there was never a time for her to rx even for a minute.

    "I should really use this time to replenish my energy..." her lips stretched wider, nodding in understanding. "My head throbs with all this otherworldly information. I thought witches and vampires weren''t real, so I really need to take my time learning these sorts of stuff."

    With that thought in mind, Aries slowly focused on enjoying this leisure of bathing without worrying about what to happen the second she step outside the bathroom. She wasn''t in the Maganti Empire anymore and was back in the safety of the marquess''s estate.

    "I wonder when will Gertrude arrive. I should prepare her a feast as well." Her lips stretched into a grin before she cleaned her body herself since she didn''t feel the need for the servant''s presence.

    Aries took her precious time cleaning even the tip of her nails while humming a tune. When she was done, the servants outside helped her dry her body and have a change of clothes into a morefortable nightdress. As they did so, she couldn''t help but chuckle seeing the worry in the servants'' eyes upon seeing the scars across her body.

    Although Aries had been recuperating for over a month now, the wounds she inflicted during the revolt hadn''tpletely healed. However, they wouldn''t open up again. Still, Abel wanted her in her best shape before touching her, worried her body would break or she would experience fatigued once he unleashed the beast within him.

    "I''m alright. You don''t have to look at me as if I''m dying," she reassured the servants, only to see them look back at her with teary eyes. "Uh... I''m going to sleep."

    Aries chuckled awkwardly as the servants didn''t pry and helped her return to her chambers. They kept their silence, but their eyes were screaming, <strong>''how could they do this to ourdy?'' </strong>бк or at least, that was what Aries had assumed. The servants lit up a few candles enough to make her room dim and cozy.<sub> </sub>

    When they finally left her chambers, another deep exhale slipped past her lips. Sitting on the edge of the mattress, she nced at the tea the servant served her to soothe her mind from whatever trauma she carried from the Maganti.

    "If only they knew I left all my trauma back there..." came out a murmur, but she couldn''t stop herself from smiling subtly. "It feels different."

    In the Maganti Empire, the servants also serviced her with everything they could to please her. However, there wasn''t a time she remembered any of them tearing up in her stead. If anything, they feared her because they should.

    "Ahh..." Aries copsed on her back with a grin on her face. "How nice."

    She fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly, spreading her arms wide on the bed. A giggle slipped past her lips as her eyes squinted with joy.

    "It''s really nice to be back here," she muttered happily. "I might still carry Danie''s name, but that doesn''t matter. I sort of like it."

    Aries giggled once more before her smile slightly faded. "Now that I think about it... I haven''t known Danie. Brother never mentioned her that much, but well, I should pry next time. For now, I will enjoy a good sleep бк ah...! My soft bed~!"

    Aries rolled around the bed, clutching the soft nket and the refreshing scent that wafted her nose. She focused on spending quality time with herself that she has nearly forgotten about her sadness when she parted ways with Abel. Soon enough, Aries eventually fell asleep without covering herself with the quilt, as she was hugging it instead.

    As the night fell deeper, the doors of the balcony opened from the outside. Abel''s shadow immediately stretched towards the bed. His eyes fell on the person on a bed, and a shallow breath slipped past his lips.

    "And here I thought she was crying her heart out for missing her husband," came out a mumbled, stepping into the faint light from the candbra, revealing him in his nightwear. Abel perched on the edge of the mattress. His eyes went from her face, down to her curved body, and exposed knees and feet.

    He reached out for her knees, snapping his eyes up to see if she had woken up. The side of his lips curled up deviously as he crawled over, lying beside her, while his other hand slipped under her skirt and slowly crawled up her thigh. His hand stopped when Aries slowly opened her eyes.

    "Wee back, Abel," her voice was rasped, extending her arms for a hug. "Hug?"

    His expression grew dull as he sighed but still moved closer until her arms wrapped around his neck. "I don''t want to sleep."

    "I''m tired, Abel." She mumbled, returning to her sleep now that she knew he had returned to her arms. "I need to recover quickly."

    "I''ll be quick."

    "Shhбн" Aries sniffed the scent of his neck and smiled. "I don''t want quick." бк meaning, she would rather hold back now like they had done for the past month than settle for a quick night of passion.

    And with a heavy heart, Abel kept grinding his teeth until he eventually fell asleep with Aries in his arms.

 Chapter 482 De Javu

    <strong>The next day...</strong>

    The knights outside the first chancery looked at each other with conflict. They then looked back at the shut door, sighing in disbelief while hearing Conan''s hysterical cries. For the knights, all they remembered was Conan cking for the past several months to rebel against the emperor.

    "Huhuhu...!" Conan buried his face in his palm, surrounded by mountains of stacked-up documents around his office that were almost as taller as him. It was just full of them, barely giving Conan space to approach his desk. Hence, the tears and the dramatic cries.

    Conan spread his fingers to peek, hoping the mountain of work would disappear, but to no avail.

    "Hah..." he let out a dry scoff, dropping his hands to his side listlessly. "I don''t think I will get out of this ce for the next month."

    He had seen thising. The reason Conan enjoyedst night idling like a sloth in his own residence. But despite that mental and emotional preparation all night, his heart still dropped to his stomach the moment he opened the door of his chancery.

    "The renaming... that''s the reason," he mumbled, wiping the tear from the corner of his eyes with his finger. "How dare they try to rename Haimirich to Chocte...? I''ll kill that person, whoever is that."

    Another sharp huff escaped his mouth, dragging his feet to his desk to get started. He didn''t even look for Abel since that man was surely rolling under the sheet with Aries right now. Conan hissed bitterly at the thought, walking carefully through the mountains of papers on either side of him.

    "I should pass a few to his office since he''s so efficient..." Conan trailed off as soon as he reached his desk, catching something silver behind the piled-up papers on his desk. He stretched his neck with furrowed brows to see what it was, and his eyes instantly dted as he met with a child''s adorable face.

    The two of them blinked at each other before he let out a terrified squeal whilst jumping back. Conan missed his footing, causing the mountains of papers behind him to copse with him.

    "Ahh!" Conan winced afternding on his rear, pointing at the desk, only to see the documents on top of it.

    "What?! Did the paper gain life after sitting here for months?!" he gasped, assuming the child that was as white as snow with silver hair was the personification of these neglected documents. But this assumption was easily squashed down when a tiny figure appeared beside the desk.

    "What the -- who...?" his eyes popped open, staring at the little girl''s chubby cheeks and sleepy eyes.

    Sunny blinked twice, staring at the uncle slumped on the scattered documents on the floor. Her lips parted as if she was about to say something, but closed them again and sauntered off.

    "Sunny is hungry..." she hummed while rubbing her tummy, stopping in front of the shut door. She looked up and reached for the knob, but failed even when she stood on her toes. So she looked back at Conan and pointed at it.

    "Handsome Uncle, can you open it for Sunny?"

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Happening at the same time...

    Aries opened her eyes weakly. Her lips slowly stretched into a subtle smile at each blink as Abel''s beautiful, sleeping face weed her. She instinctively raised a hand, shading the side of his face from the morning sunshine peeking through the gaping from the balcony.<sub> </sub>

    This had been her morning sight, which brought this warmth to her heart every single morning. Abel was gorgeous -- awake or asleep.

    ''I fell asleep before he came,'' she told herself, tracing his naturally fleek brows with her fingertips. Her fingers continued to trace his face from the bridge of his nose to the tip. Aries could look at him all day long and wonder how could such a beauty possibly exist in this world. He was her husband at that.

    ''Whenever I look at him, I always tell myself I am lucky to have such a beautiful husband,'' she added in her mind, only for her smile to turn stiff at the thought of Abel in his conscious state. ''Until he opens his mouth... that is.''

    Abel was the proof there was no perfection in this world. He had a beauty that was so divine, but his mind was filled with indecency. Just like the other day, she thought, he was thinking of what he called experiments. Not that Aries would refuse, but more like she couldn''t imagine it, nor did it ever cross to her that was possible.

    A shallow sigh slipped past her lips, raising her brows when his sharp eyes cracked open.

    "Good morning, Your Majesty," she greeted sweetly, watching him blink. Abel shut one eye to protect it from the sunlight, his other eye fixed on her.

    "Did you sleep well?" she inquired, only to feel his arm pull her waist closer to him. Her fistnded on his chest on instinct, blinking twice in puzzlement.

    "Did you recover now?" his voice was rasped and weary as if every word he uttered scratched his throat painfully.

    "I''m not a vampire who recovers minutes after getting my neck snapped."

    Abel closed his eyes and pulled her closer into his embrace. He lowered his head, burying his face on top of her head. As he did so, Aries furrowed her brows when she felt something hard poking at her abdomen. She couldn''t help but bite her lower lip, giggling at this sensual heat of his body transferring to his touches.

    "I think..." her palm traced his back and carefully slipped inside his top until her hand was touching his bare back. "... I can --"

    "Mydy, are you awake now?"

    Aries flinched and jump to sit up, taking him by surprise by her aggressive action. She turned to the door, wide-eyed, listening to the light knocks from the other side.

    Meanwhile, Abel furrowed his brows, blinking as he slowly grew aware of his surroundings. His eyes studied his wife''s panicking expression. But just as his lips parted to reassure her, Aries gasped an "oh, no!" and, without thinking twice, kicked him out of the bed.

    As soon as Abelnded with a thud on the floor -- lying t on his back -- his eyes went huge. Looking at the high ceiling, Abel processed what had just happened.

    ''I... feel like this had already happened,'' he told himself, and then remembered this wasn''t the first time she kicked him out of the bed. ''Is she... cheating on me with me? Oh... poor me.''

    Abel frowned at his love rival, who was apparently himself, while Aries talked to the servant who came to check if she was already awake. Surely, there was no other way to stop this from happening unless they get married under the Haimirichw to carry the name Missus Eustass Silvestri Abel Bloodworth.

 Chapter 483 You Are Right

    "Mydy, I brought you water so you can wash --"

    "No!" Aries raised her hand to stop the maid in panic, making the little servant freeze whilst holding the ceramic basin and ewer.

    "Mydy?" called the servant with genuine wonder in her voice.

    "I mean..." Aries cleared her throat, turning to the bedside table on the other side of the bed opposite where Abel was. Her eyes lit up, pointing a finger at it. "Put it there."

    "But mydy --"

    "Now! Just ced it there." Aries bit her tongue when she raised her voice, reminding herself she wasn''t in the Maganti Empire anymore. "I mean... I don''t really feel good and I would like to rest more."

    Worry resurfaced in the maid''s eyes as she nodded slightly. She said nothing further, following Aries''s instructions, and ced the ewer and basin on the bedside table. When she straightened her back and faced Aries once again, the servant pursed her lips.

    "Mydy, are you in pain anywhere? Should I bring you medicine or tea meant to soothe your worry?" the servant suggested worriedly, assuming Aries''s actions resulted from her experience in the Maganti Empire.

    "Pardon? бк I mean, no, you don''t have to." Aries chuckled, waving weakly. "I just need more rest. The situation in the Maganti Empire was not that bad. I mean, it was, but I needed rest. I''ve been on the road for months."

    "I see..."

    "Don''t worry about me. Tell my brother I''ll join him for lunchter."

    "The Marquess had already left for the fort this morning and said he would return before dinner."

    "Then dinner! Tell Gustav I will have my meals in my room." Aries bit her tongue again, wincing mentally at her unnatural act. She wanted to make the maid leave, but s, she sounded more suspicious with every passing second. A deep exhale escaped her mouth as she looked down. Why was she even doing this?

    "Then I will inform Sir Gustav." Aries looked up at the young servant, who shed her a gentle smile. "Please call for me if you needed anything else, mydy."

    The servant bowed deeply and when she straightened her back, her smile grew even gentler. She looked at Aries in understanding before turning on her heel, sauntering away wordlessly. She looked back at Aries when she was by the door, offering her a kind smile before leaving.

    Aries let out a deep exhale when the faint click of the door caressed her ears. "What was I doing worrying everyone?" she mumbled, running her fingers through her tousled hair. Her brows rose, ncing at the green strands of hair in her hand.

    "Right..." she sighed once more. "Should I dye my hair gold again? Weren''t they suspicious?"

    Aries weighed whether to dye her hair gold to match the Marquess''s hair or leave it like this. She pondered about it for a minute before she perked up, realizing Abel was still in her room. Aries immediately jumped to the other side of the bed, looking over, only to wince seeing Abel had his eyes closed.

    ''Goodness... he must be surprised I kicked him out of panic,'' She stressed, sighing for the umpteenth time. "Da бк darling?" she called cautiously, watching his eyes crack open.<sub> </sub>

    "How many servants does the marquess have in his estate?" his voice was low and almost rasped, holding the eyes hovering over him.

    "Around... a few hundreds...?" she answered in the same cautious tone. "Why are you suddenly asking?"

    "In the Imperial Pce, there were several thousand. A few hundred... that means it will still not matter if one had gone missing, right?"

    Aries''s pupils instantly went huge, and without thinking twice, she jumped out of the bed. Her feetnded on either side of him, sitting on top of Abel with her hands on his chest.

    "What are you saying now? She doesn''t know that my husband is here!" she eximed ghastly. "It''s not her fault that you are now lying here. I mean, even if you''re my husband, they were still shocked at the news of my return. They know I barely survived the revolt, thanks to my brother. They were still worried about whatever trauma I carried and I бк they''d been very considerate."

    Aries let out a sharp breath and bent over until her face was a palm length away from his. "I''m sorry I kicked you out of the bed, hmm? I just acted on instinct and I won''t do it again."

    "You will do it again." He narrowed his eyes. "This isn''t the only time you kicked me out of the bed and told me the same thing."

    "What?" she scrunched her nose up and sported an ugly frown when a memory crossed her head. ''Right... this isn''t the first time.''

    Abel let out a shallow breath, studying her somber countenance. He raised a hand, burying it in her tousled hair, only to still his palm on the back of her head. His action caused her brows to raise, observing his unchanging visage.

    "Uhm..." she cleared her throat, crawling her hand from his chest to his shoulder. Her eyes lit up when an idea crossed her head, leaning down, closing the gap between their faces, and iming his lips with a soft peck. Aries nted five consecutive light pecks before drawing her head back to see if his mood had gotten better.

    Abel''s expression was still the same, but even so, she had been with him to understand the slight difference. She smiled, rxing her body on him, and kept her face at a close distance from his face.

    "Don''t be angry anymore," she crooned, patting her chest reassuringly. "If you still are, you shouldn''t shift the anger to the servant. She''s not the one who kicked you, but me."

    "I see... so I should get angry at you?"

    "Mhm." She nodded profusely. "It''s my fault."

    Abel narrowed his eyes as the side of his lips curled up, making her instantly regret her sentiments just now.

    "I mean, you''re right, darling. With so many servants in the estate, no one will notice if one had gone missing." Ariesughed awkwardly, nting her hand on his chest to push herself away from him. However, just as she did, Abel held her wrist to still her on her spot.

    "My husband, my love, my savior, my sun and moon, my shiniest star in the night sky..." Aries listed down all sorts of ttery in her head, but to no avail. She froze on the spot when Abel moved up his hip, making her flinch when his hard manhood underneath his thin trousers touched her rear.

    "Continue, darling," he mused, propping his elbow until he was sitting up, keeping her on hisp by snaking his arms around her precious body. He cocked his head to the side, clutching the sides of her nightdress, only to raise it to expose her thigh. "Theundrydies will be surprised if they see traces of semen on the sheet."

 Chapter 484 Lecture

    "Theundrydies will be surprised if they see traces of semen on the sheet."

    Aries lowered her eyes, shifting her gaze to the side when Abel tucked a portion of her hair behind her ear. She could feel the head of his groin in between her legs, while her knees touched the floor on either side of him.

    "I told you, I haven''t fully recovered," she murmured, rubbing the fabric hanging on his shoulder with her thumb and index.

    "So, you remembered what you saidst night?" he dawdled, leaning his face to trace her jaw with the apex of his nose. "What were you nning to do before the maid interrupted you, hmm?"

    "Well..." she cleared her throat, tilting her head and raising her shoulder at the ticklish sensation of his faint breaths touching her ear. Aries bit her lower lip when Abel bit her earlobe, licking it slowly and sensually. "... to wake you up."

    ? He chuckled with his closed lips, moving his titled head down to bite the side of her neck. "Now I''m awake."

    "Abel..." Her tone sounded in betweenining and moaning, clutching his shoulder. Her face dyed in red, feeling her pool of moisture soak his trousers. His nightwear was just as thin as her nightdress, and with just a drop of liquid, these fabrics wouldn''t be able to protect their bodies from the naked eye.

    Perhaps it was the quality night''s rest, she thought. That now, she felt like she could take him wholly and match his stamina.

    Aries''s breathing grew heavy each time his lips kissed her neck down to her cors while his palms felt her back. She felt small within the confinement of his muscr arms, but at the same time, the sense of security within them was distinct.

    "Ah..." she breathed out, blinking weakly, feeling a little lightheaded at her increasing body temperature.

    When Aries moved her head to look at him, Abel raised his head. His eyes were clouded with wants and needs, making her lower her head to give him what they both wanted and needed; that was to be one, to fulfill their yet unfulfilled marital duties. This time, a union of not just lovers but as a married couple, right here, in this very room, and on the floor.

    She cupped his lean cheeks, sucking his deep breaths. She slipped her tongue in between his sinful lips to explore and discover what was yet discovered within this sweet yet strong cave. While she took his breath away, Aries moved her hips, grinding her crevice against his growing erection underneath his damped trouser.

    The increasing warmth of her body transferred to his skin, electrifying every fiber of his body all the way to his heart. He nted his palm on her hips, but before he could pull down his trouser, he felt her hand travel from his shoulder in between their bodies without removing her lips from his.

    Abel smiled against her lips, allowing her to take the lead this time around. He was wrong to think he was the only person who was holding back all this time. His wife... had always been gamed in every round of passion, despite having lower stamina than him.

    Aries efficiently freed his dragon by barely pulling the garters down to his testicles. With her knees resting on either side of him, their current position allowed them to feel each other''s precious parts that met instantly.

    ''Ahh... she was soaking wet,'' he thought, sending ripples in his heart. Abel allowed her to grind her soaking folds underneath his length, burning the ropes of his patience faster than usual. Each motion of her hips moist his erection, and more than the pleasure of feeling her soft folds hugging his girth, he felt like he was being punished for not being able to invade her walls.

    His movements were limited as the floor wouldn''t press down, even if he put all his weight down, unlike the soft bed. Sensing his increasing frustration, the side of her lips curled up against his lips. She panted for air, resting her forehead against his forehead, hands still clutching his shoulder des.<sub> </sub>

    He frowned while squeezing her tender thighs. "Stop teasing me, darling."

    "Now you know how frustrating it was?" she returned, moving her hips up only to move them down before reaching the tear on top of his erection.

    "I was wrong, darling," he confessed under his breath, growing even more impatient at the constant movement of her hips. Yet, deep in his mind, he would certainly punish her for this. This was what he had been talking about when he mentioned Aries bossing him around.

    "I''m teaching you patience, my dearest love," Aries lectured seductively. "Unless you beg me and promised to take it easy, you are on your own."

    Abel nearly cursed Isaiah, as he was the first person who came into his head, but he didn''t. Instead, he fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly. She stopped moving her hips, but kept her core pressing against his shaft in between them.

    "Darling, once I give you my word..." he narrowed his eyes, moving them down to her body. "I will fuck you in every corner of this mansion and in the imperial pce whenever I feel like it. No ifs and buts and I don''t care who will see me doing it."

    Abel slipped his hand inside her nightdress, exposing her navel. He crawled his hand up and grabbed her breast, pinching her teat tenderly.

    "Because once I''m inside, I will believe you had fully recovered and you can take it," he added, licking his lips, his crimson eyes glinting dangerously. "I''ll be gentle... I''ll try."

    Aries gulped before her lips parted. However, before she could speak, she heard a knock at the door.

    "Mydy?" came out the same voice that brought her water to wash her face. But this time, Aries kept her eyes on Abel and ignored the servant.

    "Won''t you push me down now?" he cocked his head to the side.

    Aries shook her head. "She won''t enter."

    "I see..." he rocked his head. "So, your answer?"

    "I..." she cleared her throat to get rid of the excess air building up inside. She looked at Abel and her eyes fastened with determination. "Sure, let''s do it --"

    Her eyes went huge when Aries heard the door creak open, pushing Abel down on instinct.

 Chapter 486 [Bonus Chapter]Jingle Bell

    <strong>[Warning: Mature content ahead.]</strong>

    "The next time she interrupts me... I will kill her."

    Aries''s heart thudded, but before she knew it, Abel locked his grip around her waist and stood up. She wrapped her legs around his hips on instinct, clutching his shoulder lightly.

    "What are you doing?" came out a nervous voice, wide-eyed.

    Abel simpered and arched a brow slightly. "Cling to me. I''ll be furious if I pulled out... identally."

    Aries froze on the spot at the dread that went up his spine. She clung to him as instructed, locking her legs around his hips and holding her arm securely around his neck. Abel walked around the bed slowly and carefully. He still held her waist with his arm, but it wasn''t tight enough to stop her from moving down at each step.

    "Ah..." she breathed out heavily through her open mouth, feeling the tip of his erection reach the deepest part of her wall. She would move up, carrying her weight, only to slide down slightly at each step.

    "Abel..." she called out under her breath, resting her chin on his shoulder. "What are you..."

    Aries looked back to see if he was nning to lie her down on the bed. Much to her surprise, Abel just bent over to pick up the bell beside the empty teacup the servant brought in. He held the strings on top of the bell and then smirked at her.

    "Don''t move so much, darling," he mused. "The servant is just right outside, and she will enter once this bell rings."

    Aries nearly choked on her own breathing, frozen on the spot. "Put -- put me down," she stuttered with trembling lips, tipping her head back onto the bed.

    "On the bed, Abel. Let''s just..." her heart dropped to her stomach when he shook his head.

    "Stay still, darling." Abel sped the bell in his hand, pressing the bell inside with his finger so it won''t ring. He arched a brow as he nced down at her, and that was Aries'' cue to secure her grip around him. "Don''t let go, my Aries, or we''ll do it on the bed."

    His eyelids drooped when her eyes lit up, smirking. "Trust me. You don''t like it on the bed."

    Her back stiffened, looking back at him with the same wide eyes. Aries knew Abel so much that she was aware he was speaking nothing but the truth. She might not know the reason why the bed wouldn''t be a good idea, but she knew it wasn''t if he said it wasn''t.

    "Don''t punish me like this..." she whispered, tightening her limbs around him as he sauntered towards the door. "I won''t do it again... I promise."

    "Heh. You just clenched around me, dear." Abel chuckled, eyes glinting when he was a step away from the shut door. He said nothing when he pressed his body against her, sliding his arm away from around her waist and pinning her back against the door.<sub> </sub>

    "Ah..." she gasped, looking up at him with shaking eyes.

    Abel raised the bell in between them, holding the string in between his thumb and index, smirking deviously but charmingly. It was unfair, she thought. How could he look so good, even though he was obviously punishing her?

    "Darling, didn''t the servant say she wille in if this bell rings?" he dawdled, lips stretching even broader and more wicked. "I''ll tell you why the bed is a bad idea."

    Aries raised her brows while her eyes followed where the bell was going. Her jaw dropped when she could no longer see the bell, only to feel the string hanging on her toe.

    "What -- ah...!" Aries clutched his shoulder when he suddenly pounded his hips, thrusting hard and rough, making the ring bell that was hanging on her toe ring.

    "Mydy --"

    Aries felt the door on her back push open, only for it to close, when Abel mmed his palm against it. She panted for air, looking back at Abel. Her mind felt like being torn, knowing just right outside this door, there was a maid who was trying to open it.

    Abel grinned wickedly, holding her wrists over her head and pinning them against the door. His foot advanced, using it as a stopper so the person on the other side wouldn''t open it.

    "Shh..." he leaned to her ears, getting even more excited with the situation. "If she hears you, letting out painful moans, she''ll surely do everything she can to barge in. The moment she did, her head will roll... I promise."

    Her breath hitched, nodding in understanding.

    "Good girl." Abel ced a peck on her cheek, tracing kisses on her jaw up to her ear. He hissed and bit her earlobe, moving his hips slowly and steadily. He didn''t want to threaten her, but... he couldn''t help it.

    He loved the thrill. Of course, he loved making love with her with no interruption and her mind focused on him. But there were times, such as this, for instance, that tugged something within him. Knowing she couldn''t focus and was torn between pleasure and anxiety, and yet... her pool of moisture continued to overflow.

    Aries liked the thrill with the thought of getting found out red-handed or getting away with it deep in her heart. It might not align with her ''principles,'' and she might not admit it, but her canal said otherwise.

    Abel thrust in and out slowly, making the bell ring in a constant beat. He observed her flustered face, eyes falling to her open mouth. She was breathing heavily, keeping her eyes on him, as if silently asking him for more.

    "Happily," he whispered and the rest of his sentence drifted into her mouth as he tilted his head and imed her lips, breaking her walls with every rough pound of his hips.

    The ringing sound of the bell grew louder every time he thrust deeper with force; it would ring quicker every time he would pick up his pace. The knocks and the maid''s worried voice woulde from behind the door, but the sound of the ringing bell muffled it.

 Chapter 487 Someone Else Is Probably Ringing It

    "Mydy?!" The maid right outside Aries''s chambers knocked worriedly. All she had been hearing for minutes was the bell ringing, but no matter how much force she used to push the door open, it wouldn''t budge. Her worry continuously grew even though the ringing sound slowly stopped.

    "Mydy, are you alright?" she asked worriedly, looking from her left to right to ask for help if there were other servants but to no avail. She tried to push the door once again, but just like moments ago, it wouldn''t budge. "Mydy --"

    "I''m alright!" the servant paused upon hearing Aries''s faint voice from the other side of the door. "Just... leave me alone."

    "But mydy!"

    "Leave me alone!" Aries yelled through her gritted teeth, barely forcing her voice out of her throat. When she looked at Abel once more, another deep exhale slipped past her lips. "You''ll drive me crazy."

    "Heh," Abel smirked deviously, arching a brow as she copsed on his chest. "You did a good deed, darling. You saved a life. Be proud."

    "Shut up... ah goodness. This guy will be the death of me."

    She rested the side of her head on his shoulder, feeling her heart race against her ribcage. Although the bell hanging on her toe kept ringing previously, it concealed the reckless moan that would sometimes escape her mouth.

    "Goodness... is she new in the manor?" came out a mumble along with her deep breaths. "I almost had a heart attack."

    "She''s still outside." Aries looked up at Abel, only to see him smiling giddily. He was still inside her, carrying her weight with her back fusing against the door. His foot stayed still against the door.

    Aries let out a sigh before a chuckle slipped past her lips, straightening her back. She tilted her head to the side while holding his sharp gaze. It was hard to deny that despite the nervousness in her heart, the thrill of someone calling her just from outside this door and trying to barge in heightened everything.

    "How can you do this to me?" she fluttered her eyshes coquettishly, tracing his jaw with her fingertips. "My heart is still racing so fast and I can''t seem to catch up to my breathing."

    Abel chuckled dryly, leaning in to im her lips. "You loved it..." he stressed under his breath, biting her lower lips tenderly. "You''ve never been this wet before, and you clench so tight every time that door rattles behind you."

    "Mhm..." she smiled against his lips, licking his teeth yfully. "That''s because we never did it for the longest time."

    "Is it?" His eyes fastened with heightened lust, moving his hips slowly, ignoring the leaking love nectar from both of them.

    "Ah..." her mouth fell open as she felt him squeezing her walls, reaching the depths of her crevice. But before she would lose her mind once again, she nced over her shoulder and spoke louder. "I''m fine! Don''t mind me. I would like to be alone!"

    "But mydy --"

    "Do I look so pathetic even a servant cannot respect my time alone now?!"

    The servant''s breath hitched, looking at the shut door as the bell started ringing once again. Her eyes were filled with worry before she stepped back and lowered her head. That wasn''t what she intended to make Aries feel, but it seemed her intention to help Aries insulted her instead.

    "Then... I''ll tell Sir Gustav you want to be left alone." The servant bowed at the shut door and left wordlessly.

    As the servant went away, she met Gustav in the hallway, heading to Aries''s chambers. The head butler of the Vandran residence raised his brows, seeing the teary-eyed young servant.

    "Is there something wrong?" asked Gustav to the servant, watching thetter raise her head.

    "No, Mister Gustav. It''s just that... I was worried about thedy. It seemed I had angered her."

    "You angered thedy?"<sub> </sub>

    The servant lowered her eyes. "I just want to make sure she doesn''t feel lonely, but it seemed my actions offended her instead. And the door was somehow stuck when I tried to barge in when the bell rang and it kept ringing. I think mydy is ying with it to punish me."

    Gustav listened silently to the servant while staring at her solemnly. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, raising his eyes at the way behind the servant. Many things happened in the empire and Gustav had to dismiss a lot of servants and hired new ones. This little servant here was one of the recruits, and thus, she still didn''t know that Aries couldn''t be disturbed in the morning.

    "It''s alright." He nted his hand on the servant''s shoulder and smiled subtly. "It is my fault that it slipped my mind to brief everyone thedy disliked being interrupted in the morning."

    The servant looked up at the head butler with genuine wonder in her eyes.

    "Thedy had gone through a lot, but I''m certain she won''t take it to the heart." Gustav nodded reassuringly. "For now, summon everyone in the great hall. It seemed I had to brief everyone since thedy was back, so this wouldn''t happen again."

    "Mister Gustav, is there a reason thedy doesn''t want to be disturbed in the morning?"

    Gustav stared at the little maid and then smiled kindly. "She likes her morning alone. It''s a special time for her." бк or rather, the other person inside that chamber liked Aries in the morning and it was a special time for them.

    "Oh... I see." The servant nodded, assuming Aries wasn''t the morning person. "Then I''ll summon everyone in the great hall."

    "Alright."

    With that being said, the servant bowed once more and resumed in her stride. But when she took several steps, she looked back and furrowed her brows upon seeing Gustav walking behind her.

    "Mister Gustav, aren''t you going to see thedy?" asked the servant, treading carefully. This hallway only led to Aries''s chambers, and thus, it was obvious Gustav was on his way to meet Aries for important matters.

    "I don''t think this is the time to interrupt her." Gustav kept his smile. "I can meet herter when the marquess arrives."

    "Ohh... alright." The servant rocked her head and then raised another question. "Does thedy likes to ring the bell?"

    Gustav raised a brow and nced at the maid. "No."

    "Pardon? But even when I left, she was ringing it."

    "Someone else is probably ringing it," Gustav murmured to himself, making the servant look back at him with puzzlement.

    "Pardon, Mister Gustav?"

    Gustav smiled kindly. "Dispose the bell at once when thedy allowed your entry."

    "But, why?"

    <o>,m "To avoid getting things mixed up." He kept his eyes ahead and his expression solemn. "The Marquess would be very displeased if he identally used it."</o>

    Everyone in the Vandran Residence trusted the head butler, for he was considerate, wise, and kind. Therefore, the servant didn''t question, nor did she detect anything amiss, that Gustav, the butler who had always been efficient, would say such a thing.

    Meanwhile, as everyone in the Vandran estate busily worked, and the people in the Imperial Pce were twice as busy with the workload, Aries and Abel were having the time of their life.

 Chapter 488 Handsome Uncle

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the Imperial Pce...</strong>

    "Hey," Conan observed the little girl eating to her heart''s content in the dining hall. After calling him handsome, Conan happily opened the door for her. However, while the little girl was leaving, she called him handsome again and asked him for food.

    It was a shallow reason to fulfill the little girl''s request, but they were harmless requests. So Conan brought her into one of the private dining halls where the servants served breakfast for the little girl and Conan. But he hadn''t touched his food, while the little girl was already on her second.

    Sunny swallowed a big gulp and turned to Conan. She blinked adorably, waiting for Conan to speak about what he wanted to say.

    "How did you get into my office?" Conan inquired cautiously.

    "Grandpa locked me in."

    His brows furrowed. "Your Grandpa lock you there? You''ve been there all night?" he gasped in disbelief when she nodded.

    "What бк wow... your grandfather is crazy, isn''t he? How can he lock a child in that ce all night?" he scoffed, shaking his head. "Surely, this world is a crazy and scary ce."

    "Mhm. Scary." Sunny nodded and then continued eating happily.

    Seeing herck of urgency or fear of getting locked in all night, Conan shook his head. However, he med it on this child''s innocence. In his head, he assumed she didn''t know the real gravity of being left in a room full of documents all night.

    "Your grandfather should be punished. This is child abuse." He let out a deep breath, eyes still on Sunny, who was gulping the stew straight from the bowl as if she was starved for a decade. "You have a monstrous appetite бк I mean, tell me your grandfather''s name. Even if he is an official, I won''t let him get away from doing this to a child. Does he have any idea how dangerous it was to leave a child in such a cold room?"

    Sunny looked back at him once more, but instead of answering his question, she raised an inquiry. "Handsome Uncle, do you hate being a vampire?"

    "No. Why would I?" he shook his head before his eyes dted as he gasped. "What? How did you --"

    "Then why aren''t you using your vampire senses?" she threw a follow-up question before he could even finish his sentence. Sunny looked at Conan with genuine wonder in her eyes, blinking almost innocently.

    "What бк how did..." Conan was lost for words, looking at the little girl in disbelief. A normal vampire would know Conan''s disposition with just his aura alone, but only a few people бк and by a few, he meant Abel, Dexter, Isaiah, Morro, and Gustav бк who knew about his adamant refusal to use his abilities.

    So, how did this little girl know? It wasn''t like it was a secret, but no one talked about it since it was his personal matter.

    "But Handsome Uncle is strong, so it''s fine if he doesn''t use it." Sunny grinned and stacked up the empty te over the already used one, only to grab a new one to eat.

    Conan watched the little girl eat her third te today, but he didn''t dwell on her monstrous appetite. Instead, he remained silent, observing.<sub> </sub>

    "Hey, how did you know?" he asked after a minute of prolonged silence, watching her cast him an innocent look. "How did you know about that?"

    "You won''t ask Sunny if you do." Her answer was vague, making the lines in between his forehead deepen. "Grandpa likes Handsome Uncle because Handsome Uncle is very kind. He is feeding Sunny."

    A deep exhale slipped past Conan''s nostrils. "Hey, kid. Do you eat everything people give you? Have you ever heard of poison? Also, wow... you eat a lot. Are you sure you''re just locked inside the first chanceryst night and not for a year?"

    "Mhm. Grandpa tossed me inside and told me to fix everything so the Handsome Uncle won''t cry so much."

    "Huh?" Conan cocked his head to the side with multiple question marks in his speech bubble. "Who''s your grandfather?"

    Sunny hummed a long tune, looking up as if that would help her recall her grandfather''s name. When she looked back at Conan, her lips stretched from ear to ear until her little teeth were showing and her eyes were squinting.

    "Handsome and tall Grandpa." Conan''s face contorted at her answer. He watched her spread her little arms as she continued, "Grandpa is so tall he''s like a giant!"

    "Morro?" Conan guessed and then shook his head. That was impossible. Morro didn''t have such worldly desire. It was even possible for Morro to turn into a white raven than him indulging in such activity.

    "How can you even forget your grandfather''s name?" he mumbled in disbelief, studying the innocent little girl. "Don''t worry, I''ll look for your grandfather and give him a good scolding."

    Sunny pped as her eyes sparkled. "Handsome Uncle sounds reliable!"

    "Hehe. Of course. If you hadn''t known yet, even the emperor fears me." He gloated, rubbing his finger under his nose. "Your grandfather should tremble in fear бк hey! where are you going?"

    Conan gasped as the little girl suddenly jumped out of her seat while he was bragging. Sunny looked back at him while rubbing her bloated tummy.

    "Sunny is finished." She burped and then blinked. "Sunny is sleepy."

    "What...?" Conan gasped, moving his gaze at the table. His jaw dropped as he looked at his te, and it was also empty! He just looked away for a second, and the food on the table was already gone! If Morro was here, even the tes and cutleries would also disappear without a trace.

    "Wow... is she Morro''s granddaughter? But wait, I never heard him having a child." He turned to where Sunny was and sprung up in a panic when even the child''s shadow disappeared. "What? Where did she go?"

    Conan hurriedly marched to where Sunny left. However, when he was in the hallway, the little girl was nowhere to be found. Even when he searched for her in the area, he didn''t find her. It was as if she disappeared, just like that.

 Chapter 489 [Bonus Chapter] Sunny Is Sad

    Conan looked everywhere for Sunny, but the little girl just disappeared. It was almost impossible, but they were in the imperial pce and all sorts of things happened in this ce. It wasn''t impossible if she was a noble vampire. Hence, after an hour of search, Conan threw his hands and gave up. He then returned to the first chancery to start his day and lessen this mountain of paperwork.

    "Ahh... seriously," he muttered, massaging his shoulder as he stood by the door. He wanted to cry again at the mess in his office, but he could no longer force a tear out of his eyes. All he could do was sigh continuously at the nightmare right in front of him.

    "This... is what I had been dreading," came out another remarked, dragging his feet to the documents scattered on the floor that copsed when he lost his footing. He squatted down and sighed for the umpteenth time. He still hadn''t started, but he already felt drained at just the sight of his room.

    Before they left the empire for the Maganti Empire, Conan specifically told Isaiah to make sure he wouldn''t return to a mountain of paperwork. But s, an unexpected visitor arrived and messed everything up for Conan. One should know a day of doing nothing was already immense work to do the next day. They were running an empire, even a small kingdom wouldn''t have a day of rest because the lives of every citizen were in their hands.

    "I''m going to kill him..." he mumbled grumpily, picking up the documents. But then he paused and wondered. "I received a wordst night that His Majesty undid the spell and I should return in the morning. Does that mean the intruder is in custody?"

    Conan cocked his head to the side. "If that is the case, then the person should be in the oubliette." He rocked his head, adding his visit to that ceter in his schedule to give the person a lesson for messing with the empire.

    Conan continued to pick up the documents, pausing once again as he raised his brows. He carefully raised the paper in his hand, narrowing his eyes at the doodle written on it.

    "What the...?" he muttered, checking the rest of the documents, only to notice that every document had doodles of stick figures. Sometimes, there would be a clumsy drawing of the sun in the signature area where the seal should be stamped.

    ? "Grandpa..." Conan whispered, recalling all the things Sunny told him.

    "Grandpa likes Handsome Uncle because Handsome Uncle is very kind."

    "Mhm. Grandpa tossed me inside and told me to fix everything so the Handsome Uncle won''t cry so much."

    "Handsome and tall Grandpa."

    "Handsome Uncle, do you hate being a vampire? Then why aren''t you using your vampire senses?"

    "You won''t ask Sunny if you do."

    Conan gasped as hisplexion turned pale at the conclusion of his head. There were countless coldhearted officials in the empire, but there was only one person who had the audacity to toss a child into Conan''s office.<sub> </sub>

    "Don''t tell me... she --" he gasped in horror once more, checking the documents in his hand. His heart sank. "Oh mo! She''s the one who did this to me?! And I fed her? That little --"

    "How dare she deceive me?" Conan took a deep breath before a loud scream erupted in the first chancery, startling everyone in the area, and they looked in the source''s direction. Everyone was already so used to Conan''s dramatic nature that they could only shake their head and resume whatever they were doing.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Meanwhile, in the forbidden ce in the imperial pce. Sunny approached the mansion wordlessly. The air was still, and unlike the inner pce, there was no one around. But it did not bother her as she skipped her steps to the entrance of the mansion.

    The main door creaked as she pushed it open. Sunny paused by the door, looking around at the clean and silent lobby. Her big eyes scanned the house interior, being reminded how this house looked exactly the same as Tilly''s home on the maind. Not just from the outside, but also the interior was exactly the same.

    The only difference was that the paintings on the wall were nk canvasses. But everything, even the furnitures was the same replica бк even the frames of the paintings. It looked like home for the little girl.

    "Sunny''s home~!" Her sweet, adorable voice pierced the silent air, skipping her steps in. But instead of taking the stairs, Sunny skipped towards the west wing of the mansion. She peeked her head in one of the bedrooms.

    "Brother?" she called, looking inside the room. A frown dominated her face when she saw no one inside, and then she headed to the garden. "Mister Fabian?"

    Sunny searched the house, calling names she was familiar with, and checking the ce where those people would usually spend their time, but to no avail. The house just looked like Tilly''s mansion on the maind with some differences in the room since her family slightly renovated some rooms to suit their tastes.

    "Sunny is sad..." she sighed after checking thest room, but instead of a workshop just like her father''s, she was met with a normal bedroom. Sunny dragged her feet listlessly until she reached a room on the second floor of the mansion. When she opened it, her big crimson eyes with a green undertone,nded on the person lying motionless on the bed.

    "Grandpa," she called in a somber tone, dragging her feet until she was beside the bed. "The house isn''t the same as Tilly''s house. It''s empty."

    Her frown deepened, resting her little chubby arms on the edge of the bed, eyes on the middle-aged man in a deep slumber. "Sunny misses everyone." She then reached for the man''s arm and tugged it mildly.

    "Grandpa needs to wake up so he will help Sunny meet Mama and Papa. Grandpa... wake up now." Sunny kept tugging the man''s arms while telling him to wake up but to no avail. The man didn''t open his eyes, nor did he answer her request to help her reunite with her family.

 Chapter 490 [Bonus Chapter]Did You Know?

    <strong>Back in the Vandran Residence...</strong>

    Aries slipped her fingers in between Abel''s slender fingers and rested them on top of his firm abdomen. They had a passionate morning and were now resting on the bed with half of her body on his side. Her head was on his bare chest, listening to his unnatural faint heartbeats.

    "What are you thinking?" she broke their silence and looked up at him. The back of his head was on the headboard, but his body was still lying t on the mattress with her. "You suddenly turned silent."

    "That child..." her brows rose at his reply uttered in a rasped voice.

    "Sunny?" she mused and smiled at the thought of that adorable little girl. "Right... where did you leave her? She seems to like you since she keeps holding you."

    Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly. "I left her in Conan''s care."

    "Ohh..." Her lips formed an o-shape as she rocked her head. "They will get along well."

    "I don''t know about that, darling." Abel arched a brow and nced at her while casually ying with her fingers. "That little girl... is the cause of why Conan had to work with a mountain of paperwork."

    "Huh?"

    "You already know the spell Isaiah cast in the imperial pce. There are two main reasons for that. The first reason is to keep the empire running, and the second is for Conan to avoid such a workload. But s, although the empire was alright, the paperwork in Conan''s office was as tall as him."

    "What...?" Aries chuckled awkwardly, imagining the dread stered on Conan''s face at the sight of his office.

    "He will initially think it was that glutton''s fault, just like everyone else. Well, she wasn''t really innocent since she nned to rename the empire, hence, the added work for Conan," Abel exined nonchntly.

    "Sunny will be fine, right? Sir Conan isn''t that coldhearted to punish a child."

    Abel cast her azy look. "Mhm."

    "What do you mean, ''mhm?'' Sir Conan won''t hurt her, right?"

    "Conan had a soft spot for children." He peeled his eyes away from her to look at the high ceiling. "The worst thing he would do to her is to nag her. But the child is smart, so she would eventually coax him if she used the right words."

    Aries heaved a sigh of relief before sheughed briefly. She had known Conan, and the man was the first person she had grown close with. Therefore, she understood that aside from Conan''s nagging; he was actually a nice guy.

    She nced at Abel''s side profile, and her brows rose. "Then why do you still look so worried?" she asked, noticing the inexplicable emotion in his eyes.

    "Because of that child." his answer was the same, but his tone grew even more solemn.

    "What about Sunny?" she asked with intrigue. "You said his parents would surelye to get her."<sub> </sub>

    "Mhm. They would... if they want her back." Abel slowly set his eyes back to her and kept quiet before his lips parted. "Darling, Rikhill is a ce for trades. Therefore, you knew about the existing kingdoms and empires."

    "That''s right. Since our economy heavily relies on trades, we have to study even other ces''nguages and learn their history and traditions." She nodded. "Why did you suddenly bring it up?"

    "So you knew about the Great Heart''s Empire?"

    Aries furrowed her brows slightly, looking at Abel as if she was trying to see if he purposely mistook something. Her lips curled up as she chuckled dryly.

    "What do you mean the Heart''s Empire?" she assisted herself up, resting her arm on his chest to face him. "That ce isn''t an empire, but an isted kingdom that stood strong all on its own. Abel, you had cked so much that you don''t remember the kingdoms and empires? No wonder Sir Conan had always been yapping at you."

    Abel stared at her and reached for her face, tucking her hair gently. Again, he kept silent, making her brows elevate at the odd air around him.

    "What?" she urged in puzzlement. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    "Darling, do you know why Haimirich is called an advanced and a progressive empire?" he inquired, watching her tilt her head to the side. "Because I''m here."

    Sheughed. "I know my husband is amazing." Her grin slightly faded when he shook his head.

    "Not that way. Haimirich is considered advanced because it doesn''t stop nor does it turn back in time," he exined, tossing her into a river of question marks. Abel let out a deep breath, kernelizing the proper words in his head to exin it in a more short but clearer exnation.

    "Since you already knew about the existence of our kind and witches, you know vampires had their abilities. I know one person, darling. One person who can bring your family back to life."

    "What?" her eyes popped open as her heart suddenly thudded while watching him nod.

    "It''s hard, but not impossible." Abel cupped her cheek, caressing it with his thumb. "Will you hate me if I told you could''ve returned to your life where yournd still hadn''t met such a disaster, and your family is still alive if you hadn''t met me?"

    Aries''s eyes shook, and her lips opened and closed, but her tongue kept rolling back. All she could do was stare at him in shock, trying to process what wasing out of his mouth right now.

    "If I didn''t show up in that world summit -- in that garden -- you''d meet another man who could..." he trailed off as he recalled this particr emperor he met in the gatherings of the sovereign where he met Aries. "A man who could possibly stop the tragedy in Rikhill."

    Abel let out another deep breath, staring at her in the eye. "Back in the world summit, the Heart''s Kingdom is no longer a kingdom but an Empire. But since you had forgotten, it only proved my theory."

    "What... what theory?" came out a quiet and shaking voice.

    "The world... once again returned in time," Abel answered. "And only Haimirich, the Maganti Empire, and Rikhill were left untouched because... I was involved in them."

 Chapter 491 Not All Opportunities Should Be Grabbed

    If someone told Aries they were someone who survived by drinking another person''s blood, she wouldugh it off and treat it as a strange joke. But after everything that had happened in the Maganti Empire and the things she could never unsee, she couldn''t even doubt the words that came out of Abel''s mouth.

    "What...?" she breathed out, lips quivering. "Someone... who can reverse the time?"

    Abel studied her face, noticing the redness in the corner of her eyes. "Mhm. I know someone."

    "And that person... I could''ve met him at the world summit?" she asked, and he shook his head.

    "I am talking about two different people, darling." He paused to let her absorb the pieces of information little by little. "The person who reverses the time is someone I know, and the person who could''ve saved Rikhill is another one."

    "What?" she let out a dry and shortugh, confused at what he was saying.

    Abel drew a deep breath and tilted his head to the side. "The other person... the emperor of that empire during the world summit, is a reliable man. If you met him... I don''t even want to think about it."

    Because at the end of the day, Abel was certain of one thing; her beautiful mind, her warm gaze, and her dazzling smile could melt even the coldest man in this world. Not that he regretted a single decision he made in his life, but since Aries was involved, he couldn''t help but think of things that had never crossed him before.

    For instance, Abel couldn''t help butpare himself to other men who were... normal as per this world standard of normal. He couldn''t help but wonder about the what-ifs, such as what if Aries met a righteous man who could love her just as intensely as he could, and also save Rikhill and Aries from going through such a tragedy?

    There were many things that could''ve happened бк different things to her if she hadn''t met Abel.

    And that... had been in his head ever since Abel met Sunny.

    "It bothers me since you... cherished your family." Abel brushed her cheek with the back of his fingers. "However, I don''t regret keeping you in my arms, regardless of how nice your life would be without me. Was it selfish? It must be."

    Aries held her breath and when she exhaled, she blinked countless times as she lowered her eyes. She knew Abel, and she knew deep in her bones what he saying was true. It took her a minute to digest everything before raising her eyes back to him once again.

    "Can you reverse the time?" she blurted out, raising her brows in anticipation.

    "Do you want me to?" he returned, making her breath hitch until her neck turned taut. "I never did it before, darling. However, if you want me to, I will... give you the life that was stolen from you."

    Her mouth opened and closed, but her voice was stuck in her throat. Of course, she wanted her family back, and if there was a way, she would do it. It may sound selfish, but Aries would sacrifice her limb if she must just to bring her family back to life.

    "So?" Aries snapped her eyes once more at Abel, seeing him tilt his head. "Should we do that? And defy thew of nature? I do not mind defying any gods, but do you really want it?"

    Aries swallowed and huffed. "What''s the catch?"<sub> </sub>

    "Nothing."

    "Nothing?" her brows furrowed and repeated, "Nothing?"

    "Nothing."

    "You''re lying," she stressed, shaking her head mildly. There wasn''t any difference in his expression, but it just sounded too good to be true. Defying thew of man was already a risk, let alone defying thew of the world.

    Abel shrugged. "I''m not sure myself."

    "You knew exactly..." Aries trailed off while the lines in between her brows deepened. "You... will die?"

    "No." This time, heughed. "Not physically, at least."

    Silence descended on them while staring into each other''s eyes. From her point of view, the person looking back at her was someone who would do anything for her. But the person mirroring in his eyes looked... desperate for something forbidden.

    <strong>''Ah...'' </strong>Seeing her reflection in his eyes was akin to being sshed with buckets of cold water. Aries shook her head, rposing her muddled thoughts. The sheer idea of being able to embrace her family and see them again overwhelmed her, clouding her judgment and resolution to move forward.

    No one could me her, though. Aries had always wished to embrace her family just for once бк just onest time. Having known there was an opportunity to do that was... an opportunity she wouldn''t want to let go. However, there were certain opportunities she had to let go of, no matter how tempting they were.

    Aries raised her eyes at him and smiled bitterly. "Not at the cost of losing you." She rested her chin on top of the back of her hand that was on his bare, tatted chest.

    "It''s sad, and I won''t deny that." Tears pooled in her eyes, but she kept her gaze locked with his. "I would want them back, I really do. But not at the cost of losing you."

    She breathed out and fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly, allowing a tear to roll down her cheek. "How can I hate you for changing my fate? Even if let''s say... I didn''t meet you that night and met someone else instead. And that man turns out to be a kind man and not a tyrant, and somehow we had fallen in love with each other. And because of that love, it will push him to save me because the time reversed in the middle of our story."

    Aries drew a deep breath as she created a scenario in her head with a faceless man that waspletely opposite to Abel''s nature. She couldn''t help butugh as if sounded like a fairytale of a damsel in distress and a knight in shining armor.

    "It sounds... convenient." She rocked her head and held Abel''s eyes once again. "But Abel, how can I imagine myself in such a story and such a role when I... had married you because I love you just the way you are? Am I crazy for not wanting convenience anymore?"

    "I would love to see my family again, but... they will be displeased to know I had defied the gods and sacrificed my husband just to bring them back. I promised them I would continue to move forward, and I want to keep it that way. Let''s wee the new day бк every single day together." Her meek smile stretched subtly before resting her head on his chest and rxing her body on him.

    "I missed my family, and what you said made me sad, though," she confessed in a low tone, squeezing her body against him as if the nonexistent gap between their und bodies underneath the nket was too wide. "Embrace me as tight as you can until I feel better. Don''t go because I need you. You always make me sad at the most unexpected time, so now, take responsibility for it."

 Chapter 492 Sunnys Company

    Abel gazed down at Aries and let out a shallow breath, adjusting his position so he was lying on his side while hugging her. He caressed her back carefully, feeling her scars with his fingertips.

    "Still sad?" he asked after the prolonged silence and felt her nod under his chin.

    Silence enveloped the two of them once more as Aries kept her eyes shut while Abel zipped his mouth. He knew this would affect her mood or ruin itpletely, but he couldn''t help it. Abel had seen how she cherished her family, and the seed of guilt he never knew was nted in his heart had grown without him noticing it.

    Abel only realized it upon meeting Sunny, since that child was in the Haimirich Empire for a reason. His sister wouldn''t send a child to his care if Tilly wasn''t desperate to save everyone she could.

    ''That''s strange...'' he thought, wondering about his little sister''s nature. ''She isn''t someone who will bother... even if the king бк ah, no. I think she will take action if the king is in danger.''

    While Abel was mulling about certain things that might affect him in the future, and guessing his little sister''s reasoning бк aside from keeping Sunny and herpanion safe бк for sending Sunny and that old man from the maind to the Haimirich Empire, Aries cracked her eyes open.

    "Why did you suddenly bring it up, Abel?" Aries asked, drawing her head away to look up at him. "What''s that man got to do with Sunny?"

    Abel stared into her eyes for a moment. "His name."

    "His name?"

    "Mhm. I remembered his name. His Majesty, the Emperor, Rufus La Crox." Aries knitted her brows at Abel''s casual response.

    "La Crox..." she mumbled, trying to recall where she heard that name. Even though Aries wasn''t originally the crown princess of thend of Rikhill, the royal family of the saidnd had to learn many names,nguages, the general history of other kingdoms, and their custom. This was one of the many reasons the kingdom of Rikhill stood strong for four decades all on its own because of the affiliations they had made throughout its time.

    "Oh." Aries snapped her eyes up and looked at Abel, revealing in her eyes she had remembered where she heard that family name and which royal family it was from.

    "That is the name that child carries."

    "What?" she furrowed her brows. "Sunny?"

    Abel nodded, while Aries''s jaw dropped. Thetter was aware Sunny was no ordinary child, but she didn''t expect Sunny to be royalty in anothernd. Although, technically, Sunny was royalty here because she was Abel''s biological granddaughter. But in the records of the Haimirich Empire, Abel only had a son бк who was apparently Abel himself бк and it was naturally impossible for Abel to have a grandchild at this age. Moreover, Abel was known to be an only child, so the only royalty in this empire was the faceless young crown prince and the emperor.

    "Will there be a problem?" Aries immediately asked as soon as she recovered from her shock. "I mean, Sunny''s father won''t send his people to march in here to start a war, right?"

    Abel chuckled, pulling her waist closer. "No."

    "Good..." she heaved a sigh of relief.

    "But darling, a war between two kingdoms isn''t the problem here. I don''t mind sending that child''s head бк" Abel was abruptly cut short when Aries suddenly pped his chest.

    "Abel, don''t even think about it." She raised her chin, pointing a finger at him. "She''s a child! Even if you don''t mean it, just don''t think about it!"<sub> </sub>

    Abel blinked twice, looking away as he nodded. "Sure."

    "Tsk. Look at me and promise."

    "Sure." Abel slowly set his eyes to meet her and smiled. "I won''t think about it... I''ll just do it."

    Aries''s expression instantly died, making him chuckle. Abel lifted his head until the tip of his nose was brushing against hers, grinning from ear to ear.

    "Even if I think about it, I won''t do it." He brushed the apex of his nose against hers. "How can I harm her when my wife is obviously fond of that little devil?"

    "Abel..." Aries drew her head back and sighed. "I am not trying to change you, but let''s not create more problems, hmm? If Sunny is here... wait. If Sunny is here, how did she get in here? I mean, she should be with someone, right?"

    His lips stretched while his eyes fastened with amusement. "She came in here with an old friend of mine, but the others who helped her were now... in a good ce."

    "What?" the lines between her brows deepen, narrowing her eyes suspiciously. "You... didn''t kill them, did you?"

    "Darling, you are seriously hurting my feelings. Did I treat you unjustly to jump to the worst possible scenario?"

    "Dying... isn''t the worst-case scenario, Abel. That is the simplest and mildest scenario."

    "Oh, right..." he rocked his head, realizing death was mercy in Abel''s dictionary.

    Aries sighed deeply. "Don''t hurt Sunny."

    "I won''t, but darling, let me correct you in one thing; that child... isn''t as innocent as you think she is." Abel smiled, but it didn''t reach his eyes. "That child can kill you without batting an eye or baring her fangs."

    He poked her nose with his finger mildly. "Don''t forget she''s my granddaughter and the blood that runs in her veins was the same as mine. Don''t be deceived by her appearance. Sometimes, it is better to close your eyes to see things better."

    Aries pursed her lips into a thin line, unable to argue or disagree with him. At the end of the day, Aries didn''t know Sunny that well. Although she looked harmless and was very adorable, Sunny was still a vampire and Abel''s kin. It would be odd if she was normal, just as Aries wished the child would be.

    "So, Sunny traveled with someone?" she asked, shifting their attention back to her primary subject before they get sidetracked once more.

    "Yes."

    "And this person is...?"

    "An old friend of mine." Abel smiled, studying the intrigue in her eyes as if she was waiting for more information. "Conan''s father."

 Chapter 493 Abels Original Sword

    There were many factors Aries fell in love with Abel. He terrified her, yes, but aside from the fear of what he could do, everything still boiled down to what he had done for her. Abel might not be the kindest and could y a man without a conscience, but what mattered to Aries was how he treated her.

    One of the many things she liked about Abel was that, aftering clean about what he was, he hadn''t kept Aries in the dark. He would openly say what was in his head if she asked him, even if he knew it might cause a stir in her heart.

    And because of this, Aries came to know about the person Sunny brought into the empire.

    "Sir Conan''s father...?" Aries repeated under her breath. No one had mentioned Conan''s family, nor did she ever ask since the man was always busy nagging her. But now that Abel mentioned it, a myriad of questions hovered over her head. Still, more than the questions, Aries realized one thing; the only things she knew were just a fraction about this empire and the people she treated as her new family.

    "Mhm." Abel nodded. "His father."

    Aries blinked countless times before the side of her lips curled up. "Wasn''t that good news, then?"

    "Hmm... no."

    "What? Why?"

    "Because first, that friend of mine is in a deep slumber. And second, Conan doesn''t want anything to do with his family."

    "What?" she gasped in disbelief, looking back at Abel with shaking eyes. "But... why? I don''t understand бк why?"

    "Darling." Abel let out a deep exhale, moving his face forward to look her eye to eye. "Not because you have a loving family, doesn''t mean it is the same with others."

    Aries pursed her lips, nodding slightly. "I know that..."

    "Conan''s father and I were acquaintances on the maind. However, although he was a great friend, he was a neglectful father and a foolish man," he continued casually. "His standing had hindered him from doing more than he could. As a person in power, he had to choose and make painful sacrifices. Apparently, he chose others more than the role of bing a father."

    "Your father is amazing, darling. He was able to rule and build great rtionships with his children. Unfortunately, Conan''s situation is exactly the opposite," Abel added with a knowing tone.

    "You mean...?" Aries trailed off after absorbing every piece of information like a sponge. Her pupils slowly dted at the conclusion that hovered over her head. "Sir Conan is... a royalty?"

    Abel nodded. "Back on the maind, there''s a person in authority to keep things in order. And Conan''s birth father is the king, and obviously, he was a prince."

    p "Wow..." Her mouth fell open as she didn''t expect that.</anda>

    "Conan might act like a drama queen, but darling, you do not want to anger him," Abel remarked, bringing her back from her trance. "Lest you haven''t known yet, Conan used to be my right hand, my sword. He simply switched roles with Isiah for a change, but he was the cruelest among my vassals."

    Aries held her breath, hearing her head buzz at all these revtions, and to think this was simply the tip of the iceberg. Just how little did she know about the people who had been helping her all this time?

    Abel smirked, enjoying the surprise dominating her face. He arched a brow when her lips quivered open.

    "Ho бк how?" she asked with a shaking voice, barely keeping up with these pieces of information. "I mean, I''ve seen you all move and from my perspective, you бк I mean, he is equally fast and capable, just like my brother and His Grace Darkmore."

    "He is бк from what it looks like." There was a sense of pride in Abel''s voice, with a tinge of confidence. "Not until you know Conan had stopped using his advantages as a vampire."

    "You mean...?"<sub> </sub>

    "It was all innate talent, strength, speed, wits, darling." Abel shrugged, his brows raised. "He hadn''t used his vampire senses for the longest time."

    "Hah..." she let out a sharp exhale, barely blinking. "But... why?"

    "I will tell you if you want me to, but personally, I''d rather let him tell you his reasons himself since it was his personal issue." Abel cocked his head to the side. "Should I tell you?"

    Aries shook her head profusely. "You don''t have to. I don''t think I can process more information in such a short span of time."

    "Haha. How cute." He chuckled with his lips closed. "My point here is because he was adamant about not using his vampire senses, he didn''t know his father was sleeping within the imperial grounds."

    "Pardon?"

    "Don''t tell him about what I told you. It''s our little secret since you''re my wife." He winked, not beating around the bush anymore.

    Aries lowered her eyes as she pondered about it. She had already tons of things to mull about, and now she had to think about this one. Fortunately, Aries was already used to staying away from other people''s affairs as part of her survival instinct.

    "Can I..." she slowly raised her head and held his gaze once more. "May I know why you hadn''t told him about his father?"

    His eyelids drooped, but they failed to conceal theplex glint that shed across them. "Our dearest Conan will end him."

    This time, Aries''s breath hitched. She studied Abel''s expression and was certain he was telling the truth. Conan would end his own father, and Aries couldn''t think of other deeper reasons that justified Abel''s decision to keep Conan in the dark other than that.

    "Of course, although I don''t n on telling Conan until his father wakes up, things can happen," Abel intoned with a light voice.

    "Such as?"

    "That child," he remarked, raising his brows to give her a knowing look. "That glutton might tattle and spill the tea."

    Aries gasped and pped his chest. "Then what are you doing here? Shouldn''t you be supervising Sunny?!"

    "But you said I should stay."

    "No, you go now!"

    Abel frowned, locking his arms around her slender frame securely. He raised his leg, only to wrap it around her.

    "No..." he buried his face on top of her headzily. "My wife is still sad. I should stay and take responsibility."

    "Abel."

    "Don''t be sad. Your husband is here now." His lips stretched from ear to ear, and no matter how she tried to push him away, Abel didn''t budge. In the end, Aries gave up and allowed him to wrap his limbs around her like a snake.

 Chapter 494 Enjoy The Peace

    Abel stayed until lunch before Aries called for Gustav to assist her husband outside the Vandran estate. Aries was told that a small unit of knights came to the Marquess'' residence to fetch the emperor in secret. Hence, she didn''t have to send him off herself, and also they still need to be discreet about their affair until things settled down.

    "Mydy." Aries snapped her eyes when a knock came from outside the door. Sitting leisurely on the settee, she watched Gustav enter. Thetter stopped several steps away from the coffee table, bowing.

    "Did he leave?" she asked, watching the head butler straighten his back.

    "Yes, mydy. He said he will be back in the evening."

    "I see." Aries rocked her head while massaging her temple. She was physically exhausted from all that morning activity with her husband, and her mind wasn''t in a better state. There were too many things to think about; the realization that she only knew a small fraction of the people surrounding her and the Haimirich Empire wasn''t helping.

    "Are you alright, mydy?"

    Aries snapped her eyes and arched her brow, looking up at Gustav. She studied him from head to toe and rocked her head.

    "Gustav," she called, and Gustav raised his brows. "How long have you been working for the marquess?"

    "For a long time, mydy."

    "Like... decades?"

    "Two Centuries." He smiled. "The time he was turned into a vampire."

    "So..." Aries gulped. "You knew the real Danie?"

    This time, Gustav didn''t respond for several seconds before he nodded. "Yes."

    "What is she like?" she asked hurriedly, before shaking her head. "Ah, never mind. That question will put you in a difficult position, will it?"

    "Yes, mydy. I understand you want to know the marquess''s sister, but I am in no position to tell you about her." Gustav kept honest, like usual, but he was still modest and polite. "However, I''m certain his lordship will tell you about her if you asked him."

    Aries sighed. "I know that," she mumbled, frowning. "But should I really have to ask him? Or would I unknowingly open a wound that I am unaware of?"

    Silence once again fell on them as Gustav remained silent, studying Aries. He smiled meekly, in awe at Aries''s ability to read the air and sentience to the people around her.

    "I''m certain the Marquess wouldn''t mind." He broke the prolonged silence with his calm voice. "After all, you are also his sister. You might not share the same blood, but I know the Marquess and he genuinely cherishes you."

    Aries pursed her lips and smiled. "Are you a vampire?"

    "Yes."

    "A turned one?"<sub> </sub>

    "No, mydy."

    "You''re... a vampire from the start?" her brow arched even more when Gustav nodded. "That''s strange."

    "I get that a lot in the past. However, His Majesty respects my decision. Thus, everyone can only respect my vow to stay by the marquess''s side."

    "Abel?"

    This time, Gustav''s answer to her was a smile. Seeing that he had already zipped his mouth, Aries didn''t press on the matter. That was her cue that Gustav was unwilling to share further information.

    "Gosh... everyone just tells me a fraction of everything, only to stop midway." Aries once again let out a sigh, massaging her temple to soothe her throbbing head. "My head..."

    "Mydy, I do not mind sharing my story with you. However, if I did, I would inevitably share the marquess''s story. What I can reassure you is that I''m d to serve the marquess all this time. And I''m also grateful to see him smile more when you came into the estate," Gustav remarked, watching Aries open her eyes and nce at him ever so slowly. "You might think he sees you as Lady Danie, but he doesn''t."

    Aries smiled back at him. "Thank you, Gustav."

    "Very well. I will excuse myself. The food will be served in your room, as you requested." Gustav beckoned a neck bow. When he straightened his back, he added, "the marquess sent a word he will return before dinner. He will be d if you joined him for dinner."

    "Of course, I will. Abel can wait if hees earlier than usual." She nodded, knowing the reason for hisst remarks.

    With that being said, Aries watched Gustav leave her chambers. Like usual, Gustav didn''t even look back as he closed the door carefully, barely making a sound.

    "Of course I know he sees me differently," she murmured, staring at the shut door where Gustav left. "He calls Danie, Dan, but he calls me Dani."

    The corner of her eyes creased as her lips curled up slightly, looking down at the lukewarm tea on the table in front of her. She bent over, picked up the teacup, and chugged it down even if it had already turned cold. Aries winced slightly at the bitter aftertaste of the tea that had a mix of medicine for her fast recovery.

    "I wonder..." she closed her eyes and drew a breath, shaking her head. "No. I can get to thatter. For now, I had to focus on things one at a time. Everyone just kept bombarding me with information because of this stupid mouth."

    Aries pped her mouth lightly. If not for the fact she kept asking questions, her brain wouldn''t overload. She had to let everything sink in first.

    "Stop asking questions for now." She huffed, cing back the teacup on top of the saucer. As Aries tried her best to savor each information in her head, she arched a brow.

    "Right. I wonder if Climaco is faring well." She nced at the bed and then around the room, blinking twice. After a minute, her face contorted.

    "I''m bored without Abel." She pushed herself up and raised her chin. This was what happens when a person was used to doing a lot of things on a daily basis. Doing nothing makes the day longer.

    "I should check the greenhouse." She nodded, marching towards the door to see if there were any maids around to help her get a change of clothes.

 Chapter 495 The Vandran Residence Was Never Been This Busy

    "Whatбн" Aries stood in the middle of the entrance hall of the Vandran residence and was met with surprise at the generous amount of flowers the servants were receiving. She rubbed her eyes lest her vision was simply doubling, but it was still the same.

    "Most noble houses in the capital had sent flowers wishing you a fast recovery." Aries turned to her left when Gustav suddenly turned up with a gentle smile on his face. "The only princess of the empire is loved by all, and many were disheartened when you left the empire after getting married. The public outrage of sending you away had been high since, especially when they heard ?your groom didn''t even show the slightest decency of traveling here to fetch his bride."

    "The imperial pce had been receiving criticism because of it," he added, setting his eyes on the flowers and gifts outside the portico of the mansion. "This was their way of showing their support to you, mydy. And to ry their relief that you had returned safely."

    "To show support and ry their relief?" Aries smacked her lips, peeling her eyes away from Gustav. "Or was this an indirect message to speed up my recovery lest I die and my brother will start a revolt?"

    Gustav chuckled with his lips closed. "Some of them, perhaps." He then motioned his arm ahead, eyes on her.

    "Do you want to take a look, mydy?" he offered, receiving a quick nce from her, and then she nodded. "This way, please."

    Gustav assisted Aries until they stood under the portico. The servants would still walk past them, greeting Aries as they did. She glossed her eyes over the gifts and flowers being unloaded by each carriage from different noble houses. Some looked grand, while others were simple but delicate.

    "What is that?" Aries narrowed her eyes, settling her gaze on the huge wagon containing mountains of flowers.

    "It came from the Imperial Pce."

    Aries nced at Gustav, cked jaw. She then looked at the wagon and scrunched her nose up. Unlike the delicately wrapped presents and the beautiful arrangements of each bouquet, the Emperor just sent a wagon of flowers as if they simply uproot one of the gardens in the imperial pce and threw everything in the cart.

    "When did he get the time?" she gasped, assuming Abel didn''t have time since he had been busy with herst night and even this morning! There were many things he needed to prioritize.

    "His Majesty was an efficient manбн" Gustav chuckled, gaining Aries''s attention as he stared at the wagon. "... and you''ll be surprised at the things he considered his top priorities."

    "You speak as if you knew him very well." Aries pointed out, watching the head butler of the marquess manor look back at her.

    Gustav didn''t answer, but he smiled warmly. She didn''t also pry as they both looked at the situation currently happening in the residence''s driveway. Aries snapped her eyes, stretching her neck to look past the situation before her. Her face contorted, seeing that there was more carriage passing through the gates.

    "Thisбн is a lot," she muttered. "And I can imagine the letters I must readter."

    "You do not need to force yourself, mydy. Your peace and rest are the most important."

    "Thank you, but it honestly relieves me." Aries smiled at Gustav. "Perhaps I was the strange one for feeling excited that I had something else to do other than sleeping and eating. I was bored when Abel left."<sub> </sub>

    Gustav chuckled. "You remind me of the Marquess."

    "My brother?" she arched a brow, seeing Gustav stare at the carriage leaving, only for another to rece it and unload what they brought with them.

    "The Marquess isn''t fond of doing nothing as well. Even during the days he should be resting, he would always stay in the greenhouse or in his study room to work."

    "Well, I bet it will be the same for you."

    "It is not, mydy. If I am resting, I will rest. My body and health are my foundation. Thus, I must take care of it."

    Aries shrugged. "I guess it''s different for everyone, then."

    Aries idled under the portico while staring at the gifts for thedy of the Vandran. She wondered if she could sell a few and gain money since she needed her own, lest she wanted to spend on something she wouldn''t want Dexter to know. Also, Aries had splurged her dowry while in the Maganti Empire.

    "Gustav, send the presents to my room by batch. I would like to open them myself." She turned to Gustav with a mischievous smile on her face. "Anyway, I''ll be heading to the greenhouse. If you need me, I''ll be there."

    "Should I tell the servants to escort youбн" he trailed off when she shook her head mildly.

    "No need for that. I will also head to the training grounds to see how my knight is faring." She smiled wider, watching Gustav nod in understanding.

    With that being said, Aries parted ways with Gustav and headed straight to the greenhouse. The greenhouse was the only ce that servants couldn''t enter without Gustav''s permission. And thus, the closer Aries was in the greenhouse, the lesser the servants.

    It didn''t take long when Aries reached her destination. Standing in the middle of the greenhouse, she breathed in and smiled.

    "How nice," she whispered, looking around the beautiful yet deadly greenhouse filled with poisonous nts. "It seemed Gustav had taken care of this ce while we''re away."

    Aries giggled, walking towards the intricate set of chairs and table where she and Dexter used to spend their day lecturing her about poisons. However, just as Aries reached the table, her eyes shook. Aries grabbed the table on instinct when her body swayed, feeling ?light-headed for a split second.

    She shut her eyes until she was certain she wouldn''t fall. When she slowly reopened her eyes, her mouth fell open. It reminded her of the constant episode she had constantly experienced in the Maganti Empire, and even then, she knew there was something wrong with her.

    "I shouldбн get checked," she whispered, arching a brow when she felt something hot trickling down on her upper lip. Aries touched it with her finger and nced at it, unfazed even when she saw blood on it.

 Chapter 496 He Knew Every Little Detail About Her

    <strong>[ Imperial Pce: Emperor''s chancery ]</strong>

    Abel perched leisurely on the chair behind the desk, his feet on it, eyes shut. When he reopened his eyes ever so slowly, the door suddenly flung open.

    Conan gasped in dismay, looking around at the mountains of papers around the emperor''s office. It wasn''t any better than his office, which he had already expected. But his heart wasn''t ready for it; he would never be ready.

    "Your Majesty!" he shook his head, ignoring the horror around him, and went straight to Abel''s desk. The emperor''s office was much wider than Conan''s, so he was aware Abel was idling and getting no work done.

    Conan nted his hands on his hips, huffing. His eyes fell on Abel, waiting for the emperor to look back at him.

    "Where is she?" Conan asked without beating around the bush, making Abel arch a brow. "That devil who caused all this mess! Where is she?"

    "Sheбн left," came out Abel''szy voice, fluttering his eyshes ever so slowly.

    "What?" Conan gasped in dismay. "How can she leave after doing all these things?!"

    "I know, right?"

    "Your Majesty! How can you let her go?! She hasn''t gone that far yet, and we should bring her back!"

    "She had gone far by nowбн"

    Conan scrunched his nose up in disappointment. "Your Majesty, just because she''s a child, doesn''t mean she shouldn''t be responsible for her actions! Have you checked the records? She had offended quite a few kingdoms!"

    "And since when did we care who we offend and who we ignore?" Abel batted his eyes with genuine wonder in them. "Also, I don''t think we''re on the same page. The one who caused this trouble isn''t that child, but someone else."

    "What?" Conan''s eyes went round.

    "That glutton indeed yed house, but the person who gave her the ammo to do whatever she pleased is someone else." Abel retracted his feet from the desk, pushing himself up from the seat. He then faced the window just right behind his desk, massaging his wrist while moving his hand in a slow, circr motion.

    "Gathered everyone and locked them all in here to help us out finish these documents before the coven." Abel''s expression didn''t change, but his tone sounded oddly low. "I have a bad feeling about it."

    Conan furrowed his brows, recalling there was also an approaching coven a month from now. However, that wasn''t what concerned Conan, but the fact that Abel was bringing it up himself. It was usually the other way around since Abel couldn''t be bothered about it.

    "Your Majesty, what do you think will happen in the uing coven?" asked Conan since it was the easiest to understand Abel''s remarks.

    Abel narrowed his eyes slightly. "I don''t know," he muttered. "But my gut feeling told me something will happenбн and my gut feeling never failed me."

    "The covenбн" Conan let out a deep exhale, pinching the bridge of his nose in distress. "We''re already stumped with all these works, and then there''s a covenбн damn that Darkmore."<sub> </sub>

    Abel chuckled and nced back at Conan. "My dearest vassal, fret not. You can always settle scores with the person responsible for these."

    Conan slowly raised his eyes, furrowing his brows. He cocked his head to the side, seeing the slight smirk stered on the emperor''s face.

    "The person who caused this messбн?" Conan repeated in an intrigued voice. "Who?"

    Abel smacked his lips as he slowly turned, facing the window once again. He held his hand behind him, keeping his chin up, looking in a particr direction.

    "You''ll know when that person stepped foot in the Capital," said Abel with a tinge of wicked thrill in his tone. "You''ll definitely hate that person deep in your bones."

    "Someone I will hateбн?" Conan blinked twice, rubbing his chin. "My family?"

    Conan cocked his head to the side and shook his head. "That''s impossible," he told himself, knowing there was no way his family would leave their home. Those people loved theirnd and titles so much.

    After careful consideration, Conan''s brows elevated. He raised his head and set his eyes on Abel''s back.

    "Which oneбн?" Conan whispered, seeing Abel nce over his shoulder, and catching the smirk on the corner of the emperor''s mouth.

    "Finish things quickly, my dearest vassal." Abel kept his eyes on the window. "There are seven existing Grimsbanne for three years now, including that Glutton I locked in your roomst night. You know what that meansбн do you?"

    "What?" this time, Conan''s pupils dted. Hisplexion slightly paled, holding his breath until his neck turned taut.

    Conan knew the prophecy of the Grimsbanne more than anyone. To make the prophecy simple, it was said that when seven of the devil''s seeds had existed for a certain amount of time, mayhem would ensue.

    "The covenбн" he whispered, only to trail off when Abel spoke.

    "That is why we need to finish these papers before the coven. I don''t think the council hadn''t heard about it. After allбн they had been acting strange from a year ago." A glint flickered across Abel''s eyes, knowing he couldn''t treat the next coven without a thought. "The coven is the only time I am vulnerable and if they killed meбн I would definitely die... just as I used to wish."

    Conan balled his hand into a tight fist until they trembled, grinding his teeth, as his hatred towards Isaiah skyrocketed. However, he was aware this wasn''t the proper time to point fingers.

    "Iбн I''ll be on my way." Conan hung his head low, and without waiting for Abel''s response, he turned on his heel and left.

    Silence instantly fell in the emperor''s chambers when Conan closed the door behind him. Abel kept his gaze in a particr direction before shifting his eyes to the direction where the Vandran residence was at.

    Unlike Conan, who was worried about the uing coven, Abel had a different concern. Not that he waspletely unbothered by it, but he had a different priority than his own life.

    "It seemsбн Marse is lucky," he whispered, eyes drooping until they were partially closed. "When will you tell me about your worsening condition, darling?"

 Chapter 497 [Bonus Chapter]Every Day Is A Miracle She Was Thankful For

    "Wee back, my lord."

    Dexter nced to his right, where Gustav weed him under the portico of the main entrance of the mansion. He just opened his mouth when he heard Aries''s voice from the inside. Dexter snapped his eyes and walked inside, catching her figure as Aries ran down the stairs.

    When Aries stood in front of him, he frowned.

    "Dani, I remember the physician reminding you to rest," he stressed, wiping the sweats on her forehead with the back of his hand. "This isn''t what you call rest."

    "Hehe. I just missed you." Aries skipped a step and hooked her arms around his arm. "You''ve been out all day, after all."

    Dexter arched a brow, cocking his head to the side. His eyes fell on the hand that was clutching his arm, and then slowly raised his gaze to meet her eyes.

    "What are you doing?" he asked, tugging his arm away only for her grip to tighten. "Dani, it doesn''t mean we are in the safety of our home, you do not have to mind your manners."

    "What manners?" she blinked twice, feigning ignorant about etiquette. "I was weing my hardworking brother home. You left just when I returned home. You knew how lonely my whole day was."

    Aries pointed in Gustav''s direction with her chin. "Ask Gustav. He had to indulge in my weeping all day."

    "Gustav, do not spoil her too much." Dexter''s expression died, but Gustav smiled in delight.

    "Thedy was simply concerned that you weren''t having enough rest right after your expedition, my Lord," Gustav remarked, making Aries''s lips stretch wider while Dexter looked back at him with a dull visage.

    "Am I that of a nuisance that you aren''t happy I survived such a tragic experience?" Aries frowned, shamelessly tugging the hearts of the servants present to wee the marquess. "Very wellбн"

    Dexter let out a deep sigh, holding her hand that was on his arm when she loosened her grip. "Have you eaten?" he asked, watching her look up at him with misced innocence in her eyes.

    "Uhбн dinner? No. I was waiting for you."

    "I seeбн then, let''s have dinner. You can''t miss taking your medicine."

    The corner of Aries''s lips stretched from ear to ear and she nodded excitedly, almost skipping her steps while holding Dexter''s arms. The servants, who were watching the two, could not help but smile in relief.

    Everyone was relieved that the marquess''s beloved sister and his only family returned home safely. Although Dexter was away for a long time, everyone knew he had been emotionally unstable because the wicked tyrant of an emperor abused his power and married Aries off to an unstable empire.

    "I''m d thedy is here safely," a servant voiced out in a relief tone, looking at the other servants, who happily agreed with her.

    Gustav was also smiling as he watched Aries and Dexter figure until they were out of sight. He then nced at the servants, silently sharing the same sentiments as everyone.

    The Marquess was definitely overjoyed, although he was concealing it with his cold demure.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>*****</strong>

    "I visited the greenhouse today, and it seemed Gustav had taken good care of it while we''re away." Aries happily chatted, filling Dexter in on what she did all day while they dined. "And I dropped by to the training grounds to check Climaco. I''m d everyone is treating him well. I thought he will have a hard time adjusting, but I was surprised the knights could speak the Magantinguage well бк even the other servants can."

    "Gustav has a high standard in hiring the servants. Some of them receive sses before entering the estate. I do not have long patience to spare dealing with mindless people." Dexter wiped the corner of his lips with a white cloth, setting his eyes back to her. "The royal court was already filled with those, and I do not want one in my home."

    Aries chuckled. "I should''ve seen iting."

    "Dani, is there something wrong?" Dexter ced down the cloth to the side and didn''t beat around the bush, studying Aries''s face carefully. "I''m d you seem excited, but this is you, and you''re not always like this."

    "How did you know I''m not always like this?" she cocked her head to the side, shing him a bright smile. Aries cleared her throat, facing the marques, who was sitting on the head seat while she was on his right, squarely.

    "Back in Rikhill, I told myself that I will keep moving forward. I also promised my family that I will live this life to the best I can without regrets." Aries smiled subtly at him. "That''s what I am doing."

    "You''re forgetting about etiquette. That is what you are doing."

    "So what? I missed my brother, and I want him to know that." She shrugged indifferently. "Every day is a miracle for me and I want to spend it the way I want it to. I don''t want to take life for granted."

    Dexter observed her for a moment and sighed. "Well, if that makes you happy." He shrugged, making her grin happily.

    "Anyway, I sent someone to take a look at your concern," he continued, changing the subject. Dexter looked at Aries and only spoke when he had her undivided attention. "You were bothered about that fifth prince, aren''t you?"

    "Oh!" her eyes lit up. "Did you get anything?"

    "Not yet." Dexter shook his head. "But my intel is fast. I will hear from them in five days at thetest."

    "I see. That''s still good. At least, someone is looking into it lest he somehow got away. After all, I didn''t hear anything about him after the revolt." бк that was because she was busy with Abel and it slipped her mind.

    "Also." Her brows rose when Dexter spoke again, staring at him with intrigue in her eyes. "That princessбн will estimate to arrive in the empire in five days. The seventh prince is traveling with her."

    "Roman?" she intoned, smiling from ear to ear when Dexter nodded.

    "I sent some of my people to meet them halfway to ensure their safety so they can enter the empire without a problem."

    "Brotherбн" Her eyes softened while staring at Dexter with appreciation. "Thank you."

    Dexter rocked his head and shrugged. "You''re wee."

 Chapter 498 [Bonus Chapter]The Blood Hierarchy

    After dining a bountiful meal, Dexter agreed to walk Aries in the garden. He nced at her, smiling subtly. He then nted his hand on top of her hand that was holding his arm, squeezing it gently.

    "You''re trembling." He pointed out, snapping her back from whatever thought that was upying her mind.

    "Uh." Aries snapped her eyes andughed awkwardly. "Am I?"

    "Is there something bothering you?" he asked. "From what I heard, it seemed you had a great day. That is why it is more concerning since there''s nothing that should make you tremble."

    Aries nced at him, smacking her lips. She looked ahead, catching somemps that made the garden look warm in the eyes despite the cool night breeze.

    "I just had a lot of things in mind. It''s amazing how time flies so fast," she shared in a soothing voice, treading carefully. "The day I met Abel is still fresh in my mind, as if it happened just yesterday. Back then, I thought I will never see any sliver of hope ever again. But here I am."

    Aries looked at him and smiled subtly. "Not only did I get a hold of my freedom and was given a chance to live in a ce where hope exists, but I''m also surrounded by good people."

    "Good people, you say?" Dexter let out a dryugh, raising his chin as he looked ahead. "We''re not good people, Dani."

    "You were good to me." She shrugged. "And that''s all that matters for me right now. I''m no longer the woman who aspired to rule a kingdom, but someone who wants to cherish my family and dear friends in my own little way. My life is too short."

    This time, Dexter''s steps faltered until he halted. He turned and faced her squarely, tilting his head to the side.

    "Youбн don''t want to be a vampire?" he asked after a minute of contemtion. Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, humming a long tune as she pondered about it.

    "I don''t know." She shrugged. "Do you want me to be one?"

    Dexter didn''t answer and just stared at her in silence. Did he want to turn her into a vampire? Personally, he didn''t want Aries to be one of them. However, he couldn''t bear the sheer thought of losing another family.

    "Was that a hard question to answer?" she inquired with a slight smile, noticing theplicated emotion swirling in his eyes. "You don''t have to answer me, though. Because even if you agree or don''t, I don''t think it will encourage or discourage me."

    Aries tugged his arm mildly, and the two of them resumed their stroll. There was silence between them for minutes; Dexter kept his eyes on her while Aries looked ahead to enjoy the cozy sight of the garden and the night breeze.

    "Brother, I kept thinkingбн you and Abel banter most of the time, sabotaging each other''s ns, giving each other problems, and yet, you never truly want him dead." She nced at him. "Why do you hate him so much?"

    Dexter nced at her and shrugged. Her remarks sounded ironic, but it was the right assumption. Death for Abelбн was more like a reward; Aries and Dexter knew that very well.

    "You were aware I wasn''t a vampire, to begin with," he uttered in a quiet voice, letting the mild breeze drift his voice away. "Back then, I was but a poor man skilled enough to make a living hunting vampires who had a bounty on their heads."

    Her brows rose, listening attentively to him. She was aware Dexter was originally a human turned into a vampire. However, she never heard of him being a vampire hunter. She didn''t even know there were such things that existed.

    "It was a dangerous job, but aside from getting a handsome reward for bringing a vampire''s head, I sort of like it," he continued solemnly. "I''m not a good person, Dani. I used to kill for a living."<sub> </sub>

    "Is that how you met Abel?"

    Dexter rocked his head mildly. "Danie," he said one name, and Aries''s breath hitched. "Danie was born with a weak immune system. Even when I am earning by taking down pathetic vampires, it wasn''t enough to provide everything she needs."

    "That is whyбн when an S-tier request in the organization I was a part of came in, I volunteered," he breathed out, taking a pause as he recalled the start of the darkest phase of his life. "That request isбн to kill a certain vampire who runs amok whenever he pleases. The risk is high бк about ny-nine percent. But the young Dexter is desperate and arrogant. I had in a lot of vampires, even strong noble vampires."

    "Back then, I told myself, ''<strong>I had killed multiple noble vampires, so a pureblood might be challenging, but I''m confident with my skills.''</strong>" Dexter continued with a bitter and dryugh. "Perhaps it wasn''t just the desperation to provide a better life for Danie, but also my ego as a hunter. I''m a human, and taking down a pureblood sounds like an impressive achievement."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, guessing what had already happened next. However, she still listened in silence, wanting to hear Dexter''s story from the man himself.

    "It wasn''t just me, but we had formed a group and concocted a perfect n. We prepared for it and used every cell of our brain to return as victors." Dexterughed, licking his lips as the bitterness in his eyes shone. "However, no matter how we nned things and no matter how perfect it was, if executed properly, the organization left a single detail behind."

    He cocked his head back while his eyes fell on her. "Do you know what it is?"

    "No." She shook her head, unable to guess what that small detail Dexter and his group weren''t told.

    "They said a pureblooded vampire," Dexter answered, peeling his eyes away from her.

    "Isn''t Abel a pureblooded vampire?" her brows creased in puzzlement.

    "He is." Dexter rocked his head. "But they never said he was a Grimsbanne."

    Aries cocked her head to the side, getting more confused about his exnation. "I don''t understand."

    "Dani, have you heard about the blood hierarchy?" he nced at her and saw her nod.

    "The lowest in thedder was the turned ones who couldn''t retain their consciousness, and the highest in the hierarchy was the purebloods. Am I wrong?"

    "No, you were right." Dexter let out a shallow breath, raising his chin to feel the breeze kiss his face. "The usual blood hierarchy has the purebloods at the highest in the chain. However, what we didn''t know at that time was there were two levels above that."

    "Abnormals, Turned, Half-bloods, lower nobles, nobles, purebloods, the kingбн and then the Grimsbanne n at the top." He paused, casting her a look. "Do you know what else is funny?"

    Aries looked back at him with shaking eyes, catching the ridicule in Dexter''s eyes.

    "The risk isn''t ny-nine percent, but a hundred ten. It was a mission impossible. And the funniest part is that the one who put that request was your husband himself."

 Chapter 499 A Story That Was Told And Now It Unfolds

    ording to Dexter, the mission didn''t evenst for a minute. Everything just happened so fast that neither of the hunters who took the mission with him was able to grasp their deaths.

    Dexter was lucky, was what he said, or the unluckiest one. Because, for some cursed reason, while all his colleagues were dismembered in a blink of an eye and dyed the very ground of the great hall of the imperial pce red, Dexter was the only one who didn''t lose his life.

    No. It wasn''t because he was able to fight back, but because he was spared. After all, their target, the suicidal emperor of Haimirich, only needed one person to talk to, and somehow, he saw Dexter first and deemed him a little intelligent. Thus, Abel chose him with no further, deeper reasonбн or so what Dexter initially thought.

    As for what sort of motive Abel put a hit on his own head was an obvious exnation: to die, however, that wasn''t the reason. Back then, Abel had little to no hope of the sweet death he had desperately sought. He was already persecuted and executed, but he would always wake up.

    The deeper reason Abel requested for that mission was far more twisted than vengeance.

    Apparently, one of the very few "friends" of Abel was killed by one of the best hunters in the organization Dexter was part of. That "precious" friend, or so what Abel called him, had been Abel''s favorite to torment at that time.

    Therefore, losing that precious toy was enough to anger the twisted emperor.

    In other words, Abel lured those hunters, knowing only the best of the best would take such a challenge in taking down a pureblooded vampire. He was correct. The small group of hunters was all considered elites who had slew noble vampires throughout their careers. Leaving one of them aliveбн could be a suitable recement for Abel''s toy.

    Yes.<strong> Recement. </strong>

    That was the entire point of the mission; the one who survived would be Abel''s toy recement. No more, no less.

    And it was apparent who ''won'' the title.

    <strong>Dexter. </strong>

    Aries held her hand that was on herp to stop its trembling. Dexter had told her the summary of how he met Abel before he escorted her back to her room. She had been thinking about it even when she bathed, and until now that she was sitting on the bed with her back against the headboard with a book on herp, her hands on top of it.

    Dexter might''ve moved on from it since he casually talked about it. However, the more Aries thought about it, the more this dread sank deep into her bones. She knew it was in the past and her love for Abel would never change, even if he was the cruelest devil.

    "There''s something more into it," she whispered, squeezing her trembling hand. Aries closed her eyes and drew a deep breath. She told herself to let the reality sink in first, but it seemed hearing bits and pieces of the backstory of these men was inevitable.

    She couldn''t stop all these pieces of information from bombarding her, nor could she ignore them. She had to adjust and prepare herself for what was toe.

    Abel didn''t live a normal life from the very beginning. It was safe to say Aries had to look for the worst. Her husband might be powerful and untouchable, but that also meant his enemies weren''t as simple as she wished they were.

    "I don''t have a good feeling aboutбн" Aries trailed off and shut her eyes when her vision shook once more. "... not this again."<sub> </sub>

    She pinched the bridge of her nose, massaging her brows to soothe her throbbing head. There were many things to considerбн and hers wasn''t her priority.

    <strong>"His Majesty didn''t live decently and made countless enemies throughout the years, Dani. Actually, even if he didn''t do anything, many people would stille at him to kill him because of the cursed blood in his veins."</strong>

    Suddenly, Aries recalled Dexter''s parting remarks, which sounded more like a warning. The marquess didn''t want to pop her bubble, but he had to remind her they could never becent despite the peace now.

    "That''s right." She slowly opened her eyes and breathed out ever so slightly. "I should do something. I can''t be a burden."

    For someone who went through hell, Aries was aware of what people бк vampires and humans alike бк could do. Before, Abel had no weaknesses. He could die for all he cared; death never scared Abel. But now that she was a part of his life, she didn''t want to be used by whoever to be leveraged to make Abel drop his sword.

    Aries didn''t want to be Abel''s Achilles'' heel.

    Her eyes glinted, raising her head, and looked at the balcony. She bit her inner lower lip, squeezing her hand into a tight fist before loosening her grip.

    "Abelбн" she whispered, while her eyes softened with worry. "... what should I do, darling? I think I''m dying."

    <strong>*******</strong>

    Many years agoбн

    With Abel sitting on the step-ups toward the throne, hands sullied with blood dripping from his fingertips, his eyes glowed in a fiery red. He kept his gaze on the person standing in the middle of the great throne hall, ignoring the severed limbs scattered on the marbled floor which had flooded with blood.

    "What do you think, Mister Hunter?" his deep, rasped voice echoed across the silent throne hall. "Shall weбн be friends?"

    The side of Abel''s lips stretched from ear to ear, raising his chin, making his eyelids droop until they were partially closed. Dexter, who was staring back at him, trembled, experiencing fear he never felt in the past.

    "All you need to do is survive whilst doing your best to kill me. I won''t fight back." Abel cocked his head to the side, ncing at the figure standing in the dark corner of the throne hall. His eyes glinted, setting his eyes back to Dexter.

    "If you do not want to, it''ll be an eye for an eye." He tipped his head in the other person''s direction. "After all, the person you killed is his beloved brother."

    Dexter''s heart thudded as his breath hitched, moving his eyes to the figure standing in the dark corner. When thetter slinked out of the shadow, a middle-aged man looked at him with a pair of cold eyes.

    <strong>Gustav.</strong>

 Chapter 500 Who Would Have Thought?

    Dexter stared at the hearth, listening to the crackle of woods with a ss of wine in his hand, sitting leisurely on the armchair. He didn''t n to tell Aries about how he met Abel бк at least it wasn''t in his ns right now. However, his mouth just naturally spoke the things he didn''t talk about for a long time.

    Dexter blinked ever so slowly, turning his head to the person who entered his chambers. Seeing it was Gustav, he peeled his eyes away from him and set them back in the firece.

    "Gustav," he called, while the head butler silently lit up a candle on the stand. "Do you remember the time we first met?"

    Gustav smiled without turning around to face the marquess. "You were young back then, my Lord."

    "Arrogant and naive," Dexter added with a bitterugh. "Who would have thought, right?"

    "That you willst this long? Or that I will end up serving the man I vowed to make his life a living hell?" Gustav slowly turned on his heel, facing Dexter''s vantage point with a smile.

    "Both." Dexter raised the ss of wine to his lips, eyes on the fire. "Also, I didn''t expect to live this longбн and meet her."

    Gustav smiled subtly. "Lady Aries is a wonderfuldy and I''m d you had lived this long, my Lord."

    "Mhmбн I never thought I will ever thank this punishment for this long life. If I died back thenбн back when Danie died, I will not meet Dani." Dexter''s eyes softened at the thought of Aries, and how she was so clingy today. "She melts my heart and whenever I look at her, all I can think of is how to make her happy and how to protect her from all sides."

    "She married that man, after all. Of all the males out thereбн she just had to fall in love with the deadliest and the most twisted of all," he continued bitterly, emptying the winess in one go.

    "But you and I are aware that His Majesty, although cruel to his enemies, is merciful to us who doesn''t deserve it," Gustav reminded the marquess, advancing in Dexter''s direction, and stopped several steps away from the armchair Dexter was sitting on. "Isn''t that the reason?, despite your grudges against him, you cannot leave him behind?"

    Dexter lowered his eyes andughed bitterly. "He always worries me."

    "His Majesty has always been like that. He does whatever he wants without regard for those around him."

    "He should''ve lived a bit decently," Dexter added under his breath. "If only he didбн if only he tried even more or just walked away from those who shunned him as he had always doneбн they wouldn''t treat him the way they did."

    Gustav smiled subtly at Dexter. He knew the marquess more than anyone. Dexter''s hatred against Abel was pure, but at the same time, Dexter looked up at the man with genuine admiration. The marquess never showed it or verbalized his sentiments regarding Abel, but Gustav was aware Dexter was torn between his love and hate towards the emperor of thisnd.

    It was a case that everyone could understand; Abel was someone that one would hate with passion or admire like a god. There was no in-between.

    "I had always believed in karma. That was what makes me go on." Dexter spoke before silence dominate the room. "But nowбн I sincerely hope it doesn''t exist, Gustav."

    "Are you afraid of thedy''s safety?"<sub> </sub>

    "No. I''m terrified." Dexter''s eyes fell on his hand, seeing how the winess tremble under his grip. "His enemies weren''t as simple as those in the Maganti Empire. He had made tons and tons of enemies, and they had always been eyeing to end him. I don''t think it will be a battle that we will all survive, Gustav."

    "I do not mind dying. I had lived long enough, but Daniбн she''s just starting her life again. I''m certain His Majesty shared the same sentiments as I do."

    "Everything will be well, my lord," Gustav reassured, to soothe the marquess''s worries. "Nothing happened yet."

    "Nothing?" Dexter arched a brow and cast Gustav a look. "You''ve been in Haimirich all this time. Do you believe nothing had happened yet? Or nothing will happen anytime soon?"

    This time, Gustav remained silent, lowering his eyes. Meanwhile, Dexter nted his hands on the armrest to push himself up. When Dexter stood proud in his stature, he faced Gustav squarely.

    "You had reced a lot of our servants while we''re away, picking only those who can protect the manor. I don''t think you believe your own ims, Gustav." Dexter pointed out calmly. "When I arrived in the capital, I went straight to the imperial pce. Thus, I know someone cast a spell to fight the duke''s protection spell. If that is not the sign Haimirich isn''t about to wee a catastrophe, I don''t know what is."

    Dexter bent over, cing the empty winess on the table. When he straightened his back, the side of his lips curled up.

    "When worsees to worst, protect Dani with your life, Gustav," he ordered with a soft voice. "Iбн cannot bear to watch my sister die before me. She can''t die before me, Gustav. It''ll kill me."

    "Yes, my Lord."

    Dexter rocked his head, a bit reassured ?Aries had a capable person who would protect her lest something unprecedented happened. With that being said, he picked up his coat that was draped over the other armchair.

    "You''re leaving, my Lord?" Gustav furrowed his brows, seeing that Dexter didn''t seem he had any intention to stay.

    "Mhm. I heard the duke and Morro left the capital." Dexter exined while slipping his hand inside the sleeve. "I assume it was His Majesty''s order бк probably because of what happened in the Imperial Pce. I had to see what was going on in that ce. We cannot afford to get caught off guard since there will be an approaching coven in a month."

    "But my lord бк" Gustav stopped when Dexter shook his head.

    "I won''t be long," thetter remarked with certainty. "In case Dani looks for me, tell her I will be handling some affairs and will return in the evening. Also, she will be weing a friend soon. Prepare everything beforehand."

    "Yes, my lord." Gustav let out a deep exhale, watching Dexter prepare to leave at this hour.

    Little did Dexter know that going to the imperial pce was one of the worst decisions he had ever made in his entire life.

 Chapter 501 Five Days Later...

    Aries''s mood for the past five days continuously went downhill. Her somber mood had even spread across the entire Vandran Estate to the point there seemed to be invisible dark clouds over the mansion''s roof.

    Everyone бк the marshalls included бк had been walking on thin ice, afraid they would do or say something that could worsen Aries''s mood. Thus, the only person who could exchange words with Aries at the moment was Gustav.

    "How dare theyбн" Aries''s voice shook, clutching the table of the vanity mirror tightly. The servants shuddered and flinched, keeping their silence. Their eyes fell on Aries''s hand and thought if thedy could break the table with brute force, she would''ve done it already.

    "... leave me all alone in here?" she breathed out andughed in ridicule, getting angrier every passing day.

    "Mydyбн" the servant who was brushing Aries''s hair to arrange it before meeting her guests, stuttered in fear. "The бк the marquess might return home tonight. Ha haбн"

    <strong>m!</strong>

    Aries''s eyes red, ring at the poor servant in dismay. She knew she shouldn''t me the servants, but she was furious and couldn''t keep acting like she was fine.

    "Call Gustav," she raised her voice, barely keeping her anger to herself. "Summon him now!"

    "Ye бк yes, mydy."

    Aries scoffed, watching the servants inside her chambers hurriedly leave to execute her orders. A deep huff escaped her mouth, clicking her tongue in irritation.

    "Seriouslyбн" her fingers were zeroing on her temple, assisting herself up. Aries dragged her feet towards the futon, plopping her butt down heavily.

    "I can''t believe them," she mumbled, leaning back, waiting for Gustav to arrive.

    It had been six days since she had returned to the estate. However, Abel and Dexter had been missing in action for the past five days. Abel didn''t visit her, and she heard from Gustav Dexter left to do some business that same night they had a stroll in the garden.

    Both of them didn''t appear after that. Aries didn''t even see their shadow. It would be fine if they sent her a letter telling her they were alive. BUT, no, they didn''t.

    This exined the boiling anger and worry filling her chest.

    Aries had been worried about them, and even though Gustav reassured her, that they were probably busy with the state of affairs. She couldn''t understand howe it was hard for them to send a pigeon to the Vandran residence.

    "Hahбн Abel used to send me the most unimportant letters. Why can''t he do that now?" Aries''s blood boiled, knowing she would never gain peace unless she see herself that those two were still alive.

    It didn''t take long when Aries heard a knock from the outside and heard Gustav announce his arrival. She immediately spoke, e in," and watched the door open from the outside.

    "I''m going," Aries announced without beating around the bush the second Gustav came to her sight.<sub> </sub>

    "Mydy?"

    "Prepare me a carriage, Gustav. It''s been five days since Abelst visited, and it had been five days since I''ve seen my brother. I can''t keep waiting." Aries''s eyes lit up with determination, and by the looks of it, Gustav couldn''t persuade her anymore. "I will go to the Imperial Pce. I have to greet the emperor, anyway, and thank him for weing me back into the empire."

    A shallow breath slipped past the butler''s lips, lowering his head. "But your guests will arrive soon, mydy. They''ve been sighted entering the capital this morning."

    "Roman is traveling with Violet. I''m certain he will have to go to the Imperial Pce to report back to the emperor." Aries rocked her head, using every bit of her brain cells to make up an excuse to visit the imperial pce. "I can hitch a ride with him after weing Violet. In that case, no one will know I left the estate. That sounds better."

    "Very well." Gustav bowed and didn''t argue with her anymore. He did his best for the past five days and kept Aries on the estate for as long as he could. But since Dexter didn''t return home, he couldn''t me Aries for wanting to see the situation herself.

    ''They might need her presence as well,'' he thought as he raised his eyes, seeing Aries mulling about visiting the imperial pce.

    With that being said, Gustav left Aries''s chambers while the servants came in to help Aries have a change of clothes. However, as they did, Aries had a sudden request. Instead of dressing herself to look pretty, she asked for a man''s clothing and braided her hair neatly around her head, leaving no strands of hair from falling.

    No one questioned Aries since her mood had been low, and raising questions could annoy her. They simply did what they were instructed to do to make her feel better.

    "Nice." Aries rocked her head in satisfaction, smiling in delight for the first time in five days while staring at herself in the mirror. She patted her thigh, raising her foot to check her movements and then the other.

    "Heh." She looked back at the servants, making the servants smile in relief, seeing that she seemed to have calmed down a bit. "Good job."

    Aries held her hand on her back, raising her chin proudly. Perhaps it was the fact that she felt lighter in men''s clothes that her mood slightly felt better. Or it was just that Gustav wasn''t stopping her from visiting the imperial pce that her anger and worry were quenched.

    "Let''s go. I heard my guests will be here anytime soon." Her lips stretched from ear to ear, walking like a young don out of her chambers to wee Violet''s entourage. The servants followed behind her in silence.

    Gustav greeted Aries when thetter appeared at the entrance of the mansion, ncing at the youngdy from head to toe. He couldn''t help but let out a brief chuckle, as it seemed Aries had nned her visit carefully. The two of them, along with the servants, stood under the portico of the mansion, watching the three carriages enter the wide gates of the estate.

    "Three carriages?" Aries furrowed her brows, casting Gustav a look to get some answer.

    "I received a word from the knight in charge of meeting the Lady Violet halfway that they somehow met Gertrude on their way. Thus, Gertrude traveled with them, together with your knight''s little brothers."

    "Ohhбн" Aries rocked her head in understanding, smiling in relief. "Well, then, if that is the case, it''s better. I missed Gertrude, and Climaco had been worried about his little brother''s safety."

    Gustav smiled subtly, noticing that Aries''s mood hadplete change while they wait for her guests.

 Chapter 502 The Bet Roman Never Knew About

    "Violet, wee!"

    Aries weed Violet with a bright smile as soon as Roman assisted Violet down the carriage. Thetter smiled back just as brightly, before helping her sons get down. When Violet straightened her back, Aries had already jogged her way down the stairs.

    "Greetings, mydy." Violet curtsied. Beside her were her two sons bowing to pay respect to Aries, who stood in front of them.

    "Greetings to you, mydy." Roman also bowed with his arms across his abdomen, standing behind Violet.

    "Please raise your head. No need to be so formal." Aries chuckled happily, pleased to see them in the estate safe and sound. As they raised their heads, she finally noticed Roman. Thetter lowered his eyes, seeing Aries narrow her eyes while looking at him. However, Aries said nothing about it as she shifted her attention to the people who approached behind them.

    "Gertrude!" Aries pped her hands, seeing Gertrude holding two boys with both her hands.

    "Have you been well, mydy?" Gertrude politely bowed, casting the two boys a look. The boys smiled and bowed, applying what they had learned from Gertrude throughout their long journey.

    Aries smiled subtly, staring at the boys Climaco had talked so much about. Before she could open her mouth, she caught someone''s figure from the corner of her eyes. Aries nced at the figure and chuckled, seeing Climaco panting after rushing into the entrance of the mansion to see his little brothers.

    "I''m d that you all safely made it into the empire," Aries remarked sincerely, looking at her guests'' faces with equal attention.

    "It''s all thanks to you and the Marquess, mydy. The knights he sent helped us journey without a problem," Violet returned politely. "We''re sincerely indebted to your help."

    Aries waved. "No need for that. Why don''t we head inside? You had a long journey and a cup of tea might help. You too, Gertrude."

    Violet''s smile stretched wider as she nodded, casting Roman a look and then her children. As Aries turned around and sauntered off; Roman, Violet, and her children followed Aries while the servants on standby offered help to unload their luggage.

    Meanwhile, Climaco had already rushed to Gertrude''s side, only to stop several steps away from them. As soon as his little brothers saw him, their eyes lit up and their smiles grew brighter.

    "Big Brother!" the two boys yelled in unison, letting Gertrude''s hands go, and rushed to Climaco. The knight squatted down, weing his brothers to his embrace.

    "Ah... goodness..." Climaco''s voice shook, tightening his embrace around the two boys. "I''m so d you''re safe."

    Aries smiled subtly, pausing in her steps, eyes on Climaco and his little brothers. Her eyes shone with relief, ncing over her shoulder to see Violet and Roman smiling at those little boys who were finally reunited with their big brother.

    "Mydy." Aries snapped her eyes when Gustav called, seeing him move his arm towards the entrance of the manor.

    "Make sure they were fed and relieve Climaco from his duties for now so he could have time with them," she ordered, receiving a nod from Gustav.

    Aries resumed in her steps with her guests following behind her. Gustav led them to one of the sitting rooms, offering to take Violet''s children to rest and eat in a different room so the adults could talk freely.<sub> </sub>

    "Mydy." Tears immediately shone in Violet''s eyes just one minute after she sat down across from Aries. "I''m genuinely relieved you are well."

    "Violet... did you expect me to die?" Aries humored, ncing at Roman, who was sitting next to Violet''s chair. "How have you been, Your Highness?"

    "I am no longer royalty, mydy." As usual, Roman''s tone was distant, despite that his face doesn''t back up his naturally grumpy mood. "You can just call me Roman."

    Aries raised her brows, shifting her gaze back to Violet. Thetter smiled back awkwardly, making Aries chuckle. She leaned forward, cupping her cheek, darting her eyes between the two of them.

    "So..." Aries tapped her index against the surface of the table mildly. "Did he propose?"

    Her question instantly dyed Violet''s face red while Roman coughed, causing Aries''s lips to stretch from ear to ear. She had always wished for these two to be happy, after knowing Violet''s kind nature and Roman''s hopelessness in confessing his feelings.

    "Mydy..." Violet cleared her throat, trying to conceal her flustered face with a brave front, but to no avail.

    "Haha. I''m kidding. I''m certain Rome will ask me to refrain from asking about his personal affairs," Ariesughed while waving mildly. "However, I''m certain I''m not the only person who will ask about that."

    "Pardon?" Violet''s brows rose in puzzlement while Roman furrowed his brows. They watched Aries''s already bright smile turn into a grin until her eyes were squinting into mere slits.

    "Those goners made a bet, apparently," Aries remarked after several seconds of contemtion. "My brother, Sir Conan, Ismael, Abel, His Grace Darkmore, and even Curtis. They betted on whether or not Roman will propose."

    Roman''s already stoic expression died while Violet tilted her head to the side.

    "The third prince?" Violet inquired.

    "Mhm. The third prince had sent a word to the Haimirich Empire to apologize for what happened. From what I heard, both empires were in the talks of continuing to build a diplomatic rtion," Aries exined in a knowing tone. "And since Curtis is proimed the grand duke of Rikhill, they still have some connections one way or another."

    "And they made a bet?" Roman blurted out under his breath, biting his tongue, in disbelief how could those wicked men bet on his love life.

    "Indeed, and as such, the rtion between the Maganti and Haimirich relies on your answer. If Ismael won, Abel wouldn''t give him a hard time in the negotiations." She chuckled. "So? What is it?"

    Violet pursed her lip into a thin line. When she nced at Roman, thetter also looked back at Violet. As soon as their eyes met, they looked away with the tip of their ears looking as red as a tomato.

    How cute.

 Chapter 503 Do You Hate Yourself?

    "Tsk tsk tsk."

    Roman kept his eyes on the window of the carriage, ignoring Aries''s res across from him. Thetter had been clicking her tongue constantly. Dismay was apparent in her eyes.

    "I can''t believe I will be this disappointed," Aries mumbled, shaking her head in disbelief. "Rome, do you have a missing screw in the head? You hadn''t hanged out with Abel, but I''m sure you will get along with him."

    Roman let out a deep breath and closed his eyes. When he reopened them, his gaze fell on Aries, sitting across from him, seeing her pointing at her temple.

    "I mean, how can you not think of marriage? Violet is pretty, has a big heart, and is just perfect! I can understand if you don''t feel the same way, but you do? What''s stopping you now?" she continued, unable to wrap her head around Roman''s passive action in his rtionship with Violet. "Wait. Are you still thinking that the feeling isn''t mutual?"

    "Why are you so invested in my personal rtionship бк"

    "Because I''m married!" Aries answered without letting him finish.

    "And what is that got to do with my affairs?"

    "Not your affairs, but Violet''s." She huffed faintly, leaning back, shaking her head. "She''s my friend."

    Roman pursed his lips into a thin line, letting out a shallow breath. He nced up at her, only to see the dismay in her eyes.

    "I cannot be selfish." He peeled his eyes away from Aries to the window. "I''m just ted to be able to protect her at a close distance, but we are not in this empire for a vacation. We are here to start anew. I want her to start anew with a normal life. If she is with me, her life might get even moreplicated."

    "Because you now pledged your knight vows to Abel?"

    Roman rocked his head mildly. "The Haimirich Empire is apletely different realm from the Maganti Empire." His eyelids drooped, staring at the buildings and people in the capital.

    "From the outside, it looks normal. This is probably the only simrity between both empires; everything on the outside looks peaceful. However, those who knew what was going on behind the facade knew exactly how terrifying it was." He snapped his eyes back to Aries. "Wasn''t that the reason you hitched a ride with me to the Imperial Pce? Because they hadn''t shown up for five days and you''re worried they might''ve dropped dead by now?"

    "Drop dead бк tch. My husband and my brother are capable men." Aries stopped herself from rolling her eyes, shifting her gaze towards the window. "Even so, they''re my family and I will naturally get worried about them hearing no word from them for days."

    "Don''t worry. If His Majesty died, I would''ve died as well. But here I am, indulging with your... concerns."

    Aries arched a brow and cast him a cursory look. "I know that." She shrugged, letting out a deep breath. She nced at him once more and saw him looking out of the window.<sub> </sub>

    Although Aries didn''t point it out since she deemed it unnecessary, the disappearance of Roman''s deep scars across his face told her everything, even if Abel didn''t inform her about the seventh prince''s morphing. She and Abel had nothing to do but talk for the past month during their journey. Hence, she was slightly aware of how vampire links work.

    Initially, they nned to heal Roman using vampire blood. However, since Joaquin hastened his ns, Dexter had no choice but to take a gamble. That gamble was definitely a loss since Roman''s body couldn''t fight the new blood in his system because of his fatal injuries. In other words, his body and mental state weren''t ready for it.

    If not for Abel, Roman would''ve died then and there. But Abel, for some twisted or charitable reason, made a deal with the dying seventh prince. It was a covenant that required Roman to take care of his precious life because another death meantбн he would be an extension of Abel''s limbs.

    Obviously, that was what happened. Roman died during the revolt, and he had turned into a vampire.

    "How was it?" she asked after the prolonged silence, watching Roman look back at her with genuine wonder in his eyes. "How was it being a vampire?"

    "Are you asking because you might share the same fate?"

    Aries pursed her lips into a thin line. "I don''t know."

    "Wellбн how do I exin it?" Roman drew a breath, setting his eyes back to the window, wondering how to answer her. "It wasбн awful."

    His eyes gleamed with mixed emotions. "There might be good things, such as gaining unbelievable strength and speed I will never attain being human and heightened senses. However, my human prideбн cannot ept the rest."

    "Sometimes, I feel shameful of myself every time my eyes fall on Violet''s neck and wonder how nice would it be to sink my fangs into them. I know it was wrong, but the urge is just too strong; it is exhausting to fight it," he continued in a somber tone, thinking of the changes that happened to him. "You can drink animal''s blood because the sheer thought of drinking another person''s life is killing you; it tugs your conscience. However, it feels like eating rotten food that turned your stomach."

    Romanughed bitterly. "The irony is hrious, in a way. The fact that you are drinking raw blood isn''t the one that turns your stomach, but its taste."

    "Do youбн hate yourself?"

    "Yes." His answer was quick without a second thought. "His Majesty had given me a chance to live normally, butбн I took it for granted and let my guard down, subsequently dying in the hands of the person I had granted mercy. How I turned is my fault, and I''m the one to me."

    Roman lowered his eyes and smiled subtly. "That is why Iбн do not want to involve Violet in such aplicated life. I want to be with her, yes, definitely. However, my desire to protect her peace and keep her away from the mess I might be in is far stronger than iming her as my wife."

    When Roman raised his eyes and held Aries''s gaze, he nodded slightly. Thetter didn''t ask further questions, and the two of them traveled to the imperial pce in silence.

 Chapter 504 Feeling Sorry For Them

    Aries and Roman traveled to the Imperial Pce in silence. To Roman''s surprise, when they reached the gates of the imperial pce, it opened for them without being stopped to check who it was.

    "Do they know?" Roman wondered, keeping his eyes on the knights guarding the gates, who were supposed to keep the security tight.

    "No." Aries shrugged, not a bit surprised by it. "They wee everyone in here."

    His brows creased, looking back at her in disbelief. "You can never know if the ones entering areing with ill intention."

    "I know, right?" she chuckled briefly. "Normally, the ce where the king lives is the most secured ce in the kingdom or in an empire. However, the Haimirich Imperial pce has the most rxed security. The Marquess'' estate had tighter security than the pce."

    "Abel is served poison every single day, assassins here and there, and so much more," Aries continued in a matter-of-factly tone. "So, you shouldn''t be surprised if you see knights pulling a wagon of corpses, since that had been a normal urrence in this ce."

    "..." Roman was rendered speechless for a moment, staring at Aries in a daze. "Theyбн those people are being lured in here?"

    "The emperor was suicidal бк desperate, if I may add. So, why would he try to protect himself from the assassination attempts if death used to be what he wants?" Her eyes glinted as she set them at the window, seeing knights and nobles walking or talking amongst themselves. "But that just makes me angrier. It seemed he wants to get a beating for not changing his ways. How dare he lowers his guard when he now has a wife who will be left behind if he dies? Does he n to make me a widow now? Hah! When will he stop tormenting me like this?"

    Seeing the glint in Aries''s eyes, Roman could not help but swallow a mouthful of air. She truly seemed upset, but it felt weird when she was talking about her ''husband'' when she was in disguise as a young man.

    "Those twoбн" Aries cracked her knuckles, engulfed by an invisible me called anger. "... they better be alive before I kill them myself."

    Roman''s lips parted, but he closed them again. It was better to stay quiet, he thought. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, shaking his head mildly. He didn''t know if Aries was concerned about Dexter or Abel, or she just wanted to personally deliver those two to hell. Either way, that wasn''t Roman''s concern right now.

    ''I should stay out of this,'' he told himself, peeling his eyes away from her. ''This is not my problem.''

    Little did Roman and Aries know that what was awaiting them was something that never crossed their heads. No. Even in their wildest imagination would they ever think that the reason Dexter and Abel didn''t show up for the past days was thatбн they really couldn''t, even if they wanted to.

    "What the hellбн" Aries stopped by the door of the emperor''s chancery. Standing frozen beside her was Roman, bearing this aghast expression he had never sported in his entire life.

    When they entered the imperial grounds, Roman simply had to tell his name, and he was told to head to the emperor''s chancery. It was odd, but the people had expected his arrival. And thus, with Aries''s guidance, they reached the emperor''s chancery without getting lost.

    However, what graced their eyes was pure horror.<sub> </sub>

    Inside the emperor''s chancery were at least six chains Aries had seen in the past as Abel''s pet. They all looked gaunt from exhaustion and gained bags under their eyes. When they noticed her figure standing by the door with Roman, they turned their attention in her direction but were too tired to even wonder who they were. If anything, their eyes screamed that Aries and Roman weren''t there to bring more documents to review and work on.

    No one seemed to have taken a bath for days as well. Anyone бк even the devil himself бк would pity these people inside.

    Aries and Roman shifted their eyes to the corner desk that hadn''t been there in the past. There, buried with more documents, was Dexter''s distraught figure. The usual refined air Dexter exuded was reced with hopelessness, looking back at Aries, and could not even smile at how exhausted he was.

    "Brotherбн" she whispered, furrowing her brows. Aries then moved her attention to the person sitting behind the emperor''s desk.

    Unlike everyone''s distraught figure, Abel was smiling at her with delight. However, Aries''s heart sank at the sight of him. Her gaze lingered on that strange helm around his head. She had seen those types of chairs in the past; it was one of those execution chairs where one would get electrocuted to death. His hands and feet were bound by thick chains.

    An official was standing beside Abel''s desk, and if Aries was correct, the chain was there to force Abel to read the documents. But that person was not in a better state, knowing Abel would surely traumatize him while doing his job.

    "I''mбн sorry," was the first word that came out of her mouth, feeling ?deeply sorry for getting angry before knowing Dexter and Abel were held in here against their will. There was only one person in this empire who was audacious enough to do this.

    <strong>Conan. </strong>

    "Hello, darli бк"

    <strong>BZZZT!</strong>

    Abel winced as the sound of him being electrocuted echoed. The scent of something burnt instantly wafted her nose, but before she could react, she heard another series of ''bzzt'' noises. Aries turned her eyes in Dexter''s direction, and she finally realized Dexter was also being chained in that seat.

    "What isбн" Roman was rendered speechless, cked jaw. This was definitely not the sight he was expecting to see. It wasбн ridiculous on so many levels.

    <o>,m "Oh, you''re here!"</o>

    Suddenly, Aries and Roman heard Conan''s voice from the side. The two of them turned to face Conan, and they could tell he was the only one who looked refreshed.

 Chapter 505 [Bonus Chapter]Teamwork

    Conan stopped at arm''s length from Aries and Roman. His lips were stretched from ear to ear as if he wasn''t executing mass torture in the emperor''s chancery. Aries''s eyes bore disbelief while Roman was looking at Conan in a different light.

    "I heard the seventh prince had arrived in the pce, so I went to check. But it seemed Lady Aries had already shown you the way," exined Conan, which wasn''t the exnation Aries and Roman had sought.

    "Whatбн is this?" Aries trailed off, pointing at the inside of the chancery. Conan''s brows rose, taking a step, and taking a peek inside. His smile brightened even more as he faced her squarely.

    "That is teamwork."

    "..."

    "They left me with no choice and nned to throw all the work for me to finish. Hah! The nerve!" Conan scoffed, eyes glinting with motivated fire. He folded his arms under his chest, proud of the action he had taken.

    "Youбн are torturing the emperor," Roman breathed out, unable to discern which emotion was dominant.

    "He''s torturing me!" Conan yelled angrily. "Do you see the documents inside? We already halved it. If I didn''t do this, do you think they would get anything done?"

    He huffed, nting his palms on his hips, chin raised. "The answer is definitely a no! His Majesty will continue sneaking out and will return only to wait for nighttime."

    "What is my brother got to do with this?" Aries gasped in disbelief, making Dexter rock his head.

    "That''s right, Dani," Dexter mumbled, hearing the conversation outside. He wearily stared at the documents he shouldn''t be working on, but was forced to. "Save your big brother, please. I feel like I''ll die soon if I keep looking at these things."

    Dexter thought he was already considered a workaholic. But the past five days hadpletely changed his views. He was forced to sit on this chair, electrocuting him if he ever nodded off. His movements were limited to an extent he could only write things down and pass them to Abel to read and sign.

    <strong>This was hell. </strong>

    "The Marquess can sort out important and unimportant things quickly!" Conan intoned. "If not for him, we wouldn''t make such progress! No, actually, we wouldn''t make any progress at all!"

    Aries and Roman were rendered speechless once more, staring at Conan nkly. Both of them weren''t sure if Conan deserved an award or be angry at him for resorting to the extreme. However, Aries knew Conan and his action only meant an action taken by a desperate man who wasn''t afraid of death anymore.

    "Give them some rest," she mumbled, walking listlessly in the same spot to face the open chancery. Her gaze firstnded on Dexter''s paleplexion, staring at the papers on the desk lifelessly, and then at Abel, who was signing a document with great difficulty since his arms were bound on the armrest.

    "My poor husbandбн" she whispered, and then nced at Dexter once more. "My brotherбн"

    <o>,m <strong>Bzzt bzzt!</strong></o>

    "Ughбн" Abel ground his teeth, tossed the pen, and red at the minister, who held the document while he signed it. "You better not show your face to me when theseбн"

    <strong>Bzzt bzzt</strong>

    "... If I freed myself from these, I will kill you." Abel breathed out as smoke came out of his gritted teeth after being electrocuted every time he would exert force.

    The minister who had garnered threats more than a person should have received in his lifetime shuddered in fear. He might not be as physically exhausted as everyone, but his mind and heart were definitely beyond depleted.<sub> </sub>

    At this point, it was better to be physically tortured than to stay in the same room with the emperor. It was the same, or maybe a swift release from the mortal realm was better.

    "Ughбн Conanбн" Abel leaned back, calling Conan huskily. "Let''s take a break, shall we? You are literally frying my brain."

    Aries bit her quivering lips, turning her eyes back to Conan. "Stop this madness now."

    "But бк"

    "Sir Conan." Aries balled her hand into a tight fist while grinding her teeth. "This is enough for now. They will all die at this point."

    Conan frowned, thinking to himself that these people wouldn''t pity him if the situation was reversed. But then again, they had finished two months of work in just five days, and giving them a break was earned.

    "Fine." He huffed, clicking his tongue mildly. Conan advanced in Aries''s direction while thetter took a step back, making a way for him.

    "Alright, everyone. Good work!" Conan pped. "Take a two-day rest and thene back here, alright?"

    His lips stretched from ear to ear, but the ministers were too tired to even celebrate this temporary liberty. Conan waved, urging everyone to leave.

    Aries and Roman looked at each other before entering the chancery. The two of them stayed on the side, watching the ministers drag their feet outside.

    "This is too much," she mumbled, pitying these officials for the hell they went through over the past five days.

    "Too much is an understatement," Roman blurted out.

    When thest official left the chancery in a daze, Aries snapped her eyes and rushed to Abel. However, just before she could touch him, Abel snapped his tongue aloud.

    "Don''t touch... me," he warned wearily, perking his chin towards Conan. "It''s still on."

    Aries furrowed her brows before Conan''s voice came from behind her.

    "Excuse me." She instinctively stepped aside, watching Conan wear gloves as he approached Abel. Only then did Aries realize the entire chair was grounded.

    "I can''t believe you could do this to him," Aries huffed, making Conan pause as he looked back.

    "Lady Aries, how can you make me sound so bad? If I didn''t do this, do you think you''ll be able to see me again after all that work? No! I''ll die! And he won''t even lose a wink of sleep if that happened!" Conan barked, having a ringpetition with Aries. "Ugh! I''m just doing this so I survive! It''s not like I am cking all this time; the only reason they look so distraught is that they''re not used to it! I am!"

    Conan went on and on as he worked on the switches to turn off the source. He continuedining about his woes and how unfair this world is to him while unlocking the chains. The second the chainsnded on the floor with an echoing ng, Aries shoved Conan away as she rushed to Abel''s side.

    "Abel!" she bent down, checking him with shaking eyes. Abel wearily opened his eyes and smiled subtly.

    "Ahhбн I missed you so damn much." He reached for her arm, yanking her to hisp. Before she could even process what was going on, Abel wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face in her shoulder.

 Chapter 506 [Bonus Chapter]A Misunderstanding

    "I missed you so damn much."

    When Abel yanked Aries onto hisp, her breath hitched for a second. But when she felt his arms around her, holding her tightly, she instantly knew he meant every word he just said.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips, raising her arms to wrap around him. The scent of burnt flesh wafted her nose, but the pungent scent didn''t bother her. Aries nced at Conan, her eyes almost glinting.

    "Look what you''ve done," she muttered, causing the frown on Conan''s face to deepen.

    "Lady Aries, this is unfairбн" Conan pouted, ncing down at Abel, and then shifted his attention to Dexter. Roman was adept in the device that was keeping Dexter in his seat, and he was able to free the marquess while Aries rushed to Abel.

    "I''ll kill youбн" Dexter warned under his breath, resting his upper body on top of the desk. "Just you wait. I''ll kill you."

    Roman pressed his lips into a thin line, watching Dexter point a finger in Conan''s direction before the marquess passed out. For a vampire to get this exhausted, they must''ve worked nonstop.

    ''Soбн'' Roman raised his eyes and looked around. ''... what now?''

    The seventh prince came in here to report to his new emperor and master. However, it seemed that was impossible right now. The emperor wasn''t in a better shape than Dexter, and he seemed to have also passed out in Aries''s embrace.

    The more Roman looked at Abel, the deeper his frown appeared. His eyes shifted to Conan, and now Conan had two people ring daggers at him.

    "Goodness! This is really unfair!" Conan gasped, darting his eyes between Aries and Roman. "Do you have any idea that бк"

    "The food is here."

    Conan abruptly stopped when a little girl''s voice came in. Aries and Roman slowly turned their attention to the door, and when they didn''t see anyone, their eyes fell lower. There, they caught a trolley tray being pushed by a three-year-old girl.

    Roman''s brows instantly creased, while Aries''s pupils dted. This time, her eyes zed as she red at Conan once again.

    ? "Sir Conan!" she called through her gritted teeth. "Don''t tell me even Sunny бк hah!"

    "Wha бк what? Hey, I''m innocent in this!" Conan took a step back, raising both his hands up. "Lady Aries, believe me! I can''t do this to a child!"

    "After torturing the emperor and the Marquessбн I don''t think you still have the credibility to im innocence, my lord," Roman argued, as he couldn''t take it anymore.

    "That''s right," Aries huffed, shaking her head in disappointment, eyes fixed on Conan. "I can''t believe you."

    Conan gasped before his eyes fell on Sunny, the one who did nothing for the past five days but eat! The second his eyes locked with the little girl, he noticed the slight smirk that appeared on Sunny''s face for a split second.

    <strong>''This little devil бк!''</strong>

    Sunny snapped her eyes and skipped her steps towards Aries. She didn''t even cast Conan a look as she walked past him, standing beside Abel''s chair.

    "Grandmama, Grandpa had been waiting for you. Even Grandmama''s brother had been crying because the Handsome Uncle bully them." Sunny pointed in Conan''s direction. "Grandpa nearly perished from exhaustion and Handsome Uncle deprived him of food."

    "Oy! What do you mean I deprived him of food?! He couldn''t eat properly because you''ve been eating them on the way!" Conan defended himself in a hurry, unable to choose his words correctly, which led to a misunderstanding.

    "And you dare im you didn''t force a child to work?" Aries barked back. Her disappointment towards Conan spiked, unable to believe how cruel Conan could be.

    "What бк" Conan gasped, looking down at Sunny in dismay. "You бк"

    "Grandma, Handsome Uncle will hit me." Sunny moved closer to Aries, clutching the hem of Aries''s suit.<sub> </sub>

    "Sir Conanбн" Aries ground her teeth before she huffed. "Although I will never condone your cruel methods, I understand your reasoning why you had resorted to such actions. However, you had gone too far."

    She shook her head. "I know you want to finish these workloads as fast as you can, but hurting my brother and my husband, not to mention you also practiced your power as to employ a childбн I thought you''re better than this."

    "Lady Ariesбн"

    "Please leave." Aries looked away, biting her inner lip so she wouldn''t get swayed by Conan. "Roman, take my brother to one of the rooms so he could rest properly."

    Roman nodded, casting Conan a quick look before assisting Dexter. Thetter was too tired that he didn''t even wake up when Roman carried him on his shoulder. As instructed, Roman left the chancery without a word.

    "This is unfair. You didn''t even hear my reasons," Conan mumbled, letting out a sharp breath. He gazed at Aries''s side profile, clicking his tongue, before turning on his heel to walk away.

    Sunny watched Conan close the door behind him, obviously upset by Aries''s harsh remarks. She pursed her lips into a thin line, looking up at Aries. Even though thetter was visibly upset, she looked hurt, just like Conan.

    "Grandmama, do you like Handsome Uncle?" asked Sunny without beating around the bush, making Aries raise her brows.

    "Mhm." Aries nodded. "He''s like a brother to me, butбн he had gone too far this time. I can''t believe he can do this to Abel and to my brother, and even force a child to work."

    "But Sunny isn''t serious." Aries furrowed her brows and gazed at Sunny''s chubby, round face upon the little girl''s response. "I told thedy that I will take the food here so I can eat it on the way."

    "What??"

    "And Grandpa wouldn''t be tied in the chair if he only listened to Handsome Uncle." The lines between Aries''s brows deepened as Sunny exined what had happened here. "Also, Grandmama''s brother had been causing trouble, so he was forced to help instead. They were working because Sunny tried to change the empire''s name and offended many kingdoms, and Handsome Uncle is trying to avoid further diplomatic dispute because Grandpa had a lot on his te already. And they won''t be able to help Sunny go home if they can''t finish their task as fast as possible."

    "Sunnyбн why бк"

    "Because Grandmama looks so sad when Handsome Uncle left," Sunny answered even before Aries could finish her sentence, smiling subtly. Her eyes then shifted to Abel, whose face was buried in Aries''s arms. "Also, Grandpa doesn''t me Handsome Uncle."

    "Is that soбн?" Aries pursed her lips into a thin line, looking back at the shut door. "I think I misunderstood him and was harsh."

    She sighed and then gazed down at Sunny. "Thank you for telling me the truth. I will apologize to himter."

    Sunny nodded and blinked twice. "Grandmama, are youбн" she trailed off and studied Aries''s eyes. "... dying?"

    "What?" Aries''s breath hitched and her initial reaction was to look at Abel in a panic.

    "Grandpa is sleeping deeply," Sunny reassured, watching Aries look back at her, wide-eyed. "Are you going to leave Grandpa?"

    "What? No." Ariesughed awkwardly. "Of course not."

    Sunny blinked twice before she nodded in understanding. "You are hurting Grandpa," and then she skipped her steps away, saying nothing anymore, leaving Aries speechless.

    Aries pursed her lips and gazed down at Abel. Her eyes softened with bitterness, embracing him, and pulling his body closer to her body.

    "Of course..." she whispered, resting her cheek on top of his head. "You already know, don''t you?"

    Abel slowly cracked his eyes slightly open but said nothing.

 Chapter 507 A Personal Dilemma She Had Run Away From

    It was fascinating for Aries that she was certain she knew herself more than anyone, but at the same time, there were moments she felt like the person reflecting in the mirror was a stranger. But those times never scared her because one thing was for sure; Abel knew her more than anyone; whoever or whatever she was, good times or bad.

    Aries stayed on hisp while Abel rested against her body for about an hour. He hadn''t rested enough, but Abel was annoyed with the scent of burnt flesh that he was exuding. Hence, she offered to help him bathe, which the servants efficiently prepared for the emperor, as per Conan''s request, on his way out.

    Dipped in the tub, Abel leaned his back against its curved with his arms spread on the rims. Meanwhile, Aries stayed outside the tub, sitting on the low stool beside it. Her arms were resting over the rims with her chin on top of them, eyes on Abel.

    "You couldn''t break those chains?" she asked after the long silence they shared while cleaning his body before dipping into the tub.

    Abel snapped his eyes open, moving his gaze from the ceiling to Aries. She had already taken off her wig, but her clean braid paraded her alluring face.

    "I can." His voice was rasped, probably because of theck of moisture in his throat.

    "Then why didn''t you break free?"

    "It''ll fry my brain." Abel looked at her dead in the eye, watching her press her lips until a dimple appeared on her cheek. Her eyes shone with rity, revealing the sentiments she was keeping to herself.

    "I will die, of course," he continued, crawling his hands to hers. "And return to life after several minutes or an hour. However, darling, if I took this life for granted just because I am immortal, I''m afraid I''ll go back to that habit of regarding life with no value at all."

    His eyelids drooped, but were unable to conceal the emotions in his eyes. "Even if I can open my eyes after dying, you''ll still be a window for a span of time. Under the Haimirich Law, once your spouse dies, you''re legally single. There''s no way I''d allow that."

    Aries opened and closed her mouth, but her voice was lost within her. All she could do was stare back at him in silence, thinking to herself thest time she had seen him this exhausted was when he left the empire before her wedding with Joaquin.

    "What should I do, Abel?" she asked under her breath, holding his hand and guiding it to her cheek. She kept her eyes on him without concealing the fear and uncertainty pooling in them. "I don''t know what to do."

    "Don''t ask me because you know exactly my ns, darling." He caressed her cheek with his thumb while holding her gaze. "If you dieбн I''ll bring you back, no matter what. You can''t die before me, Aries. I can''t let you do that to me. I''ll be angry."

    Aries gulped a mouthful of air and remained silent. All she could do was stay silent because, at one point, she knew Abel wouldn''t hesitate to kill her just to turn her into a vampire. The only reason he hadn''t done that was because Abel loved her more than anything and anyone in this world. He wouldn''t force that on her.<sub> </sub>

    "You don''t what to?" she snapped her eyes when his husky voice pierced the building silence between them. "You don''t want to be one of us?"

    Abel retracted his back from the tab, leaning closer to where she was. "Why?" he continued with genuine wonder in his eyes.

    "No, Abel, it''s not that I don''t want to be a vampire. It''s just thatбн I''m not ready to give up my humanity," she returned after a minute of full silence. "I wantбн my humanity for as long as I can. And I want to get cured if there''s a way."

    "And what if there isn''t a way?"

    Her breath hitched until her neck turned taut. "Iбн I''ll use my spare time preparing myself. They said I can die during the process."

    "You won''t. I''ll make sure you won''t."

    "But what if?" she looked back at him with fear and worry in her eyes. "I used to wish to die, Abel. I wished to die because I know everythingбн will stop. No more pain, suffering, tears. But if I die and then wake upбн I don''t know how I wille to terms with life and death anymore."

    Her lips quivered as the corner of her eyes slowly turned red. "Iбн think I''m not ready for this discussion. I am barely keeping up with all the information I had gathered." Aries held his hand that was on her cheek, squeezing it mildly.

    "Please, Abel. Give me some time. I do not want to hurt you, butбн I don''t want to hurt myself either." Aries breathed out deeply. "Can we spend this day without worrying? I''m not saying I want to run away from the truth, but I do not want to give out my word, only to regret itter."

    "It''s too soon for us to talk about this, indeed." Abel rocked his head in understanding, leaning back. He cocked his head back, setting his eyes on the intricate ceiling with aplex expression.

    "Lest you don''t know, I''ll turn you before it''s toote, darling," he announced under his breath, keeping his gaze heavenward. "I won''t tell you or your brother, nor will I ever ask for anyone''s permission. Because youбн require more than just a sip of my blood and my fangs into your veins."

    "Alright," came out a tiny voice, biting her lips. Aries stared at Abel, watching him close his eyes ever so slowly to rest. Another deep exhale escaped her nostrils, knowing he was upset and simply didn''t want to voice it out.

    However, Aries didn''t prolong the conversation because, just as he said, it was too soon for them to talk about this matter. Hence, she did her best to shun the guilt creeping into her heart while wiping his body to clean him.

 Chapter 508 Death Never Made Him Feel Anything, But This Sadness Was Satisfactory

    Once Aries finished helping bathe Abel, they headed to the emperor''s chambers just right next to the bathing room. Abel remained silent all throughout because he was tired and a bit upset after that short discussion with her. Yet, he still dragged her onto the bed and confined her in his arms.

    Ariesid on her side while Abel was lying on his tummy with his arm locked around her waist. The side of his head was resting motionless on the pillow, facing her direction, eyes shut.

    She wanted to ask him a few questions, knowing he would answer even if he was deep asleep. But she already told herself multiple times to stop asking questions unless she wanted her brain to overheat.

    ''Since whenбн did you know?'' she wondered.

    Aries had always known there was something wrong with her back in the Maganti Empire. However, she shunned it and continued to proceed with her n. Ignoring it didn''t help because the headaches and dizziness slowly grew frequent, and now she was experiencing nosebleeds.

    ''Is bing a vampire the only way?'' she asked herself, letting out another sigh. Fortunately, Abel wasn''t in her head at the moment. Or else he would be very upset.

    Of course, she wanted to live for as long as she could and enjoy every second with her husband. However, the thought of foreverбн there was never such a thing to her. Just a few months ago, Aries had believed people only live and die once.

    Therefore, it was impossible for someone to immediately ept reality when this reality was far too obscure and different from what she had believed all her life. Even if she had seen it herself, Aries needed time to get a good grasp of this reality.

    ''Deathбн is something I shouldn''t celebrate about,'' she thought.

    One of the reasons she was conflicted about her health condition. If she simply epted, they could easily solve her problem with a small sacrifice, thenбн she shouldn''t be sad anymore, right? But that didn''t sit right with her because she was a human and sadness, problems that seemed impossible to fix, and all types of emotions were normal to experience and feel.

    That was the proof a person was alive.

    Aries didn''t want to make light of life and death anymore; not now that she had pledged to cherish this life in front of her family and in front of God.

    "You said humans had always fascinated you," she whispered, ying with the tip of his hair with her fingertips. "Aren''t weplicated beings?"

    The side of her lips curled up subtly as her eyes softened. "I had always wondered what it is for you?"

    Silence answered her, but her slight smile remained. She stared at Abel lovingly, wondering about his outlook on life. Although she already knew about it, she was wondering about the things she wasn''t aware of.<sub> </sub>

    "You must''ve been dumbfounded at human nature." She chuckled weakly, thinking Abel always had a different take on any situation. Aries moved closer to him, embracing him back with her forehead touching his.

    She inhaled his deep breaths, closing her eyes to rest them for a bit. However, instead of sleeping, she started humming a soothing tune. Her hand caressed his back, hoping that would help him sleep deeply and peacefully.

    Aries didn''t n to sleep as she didn''t feel sleepy at all. But for some reason, while she was humming to lull him to sleep, she slowly fell asleep. When her humming stopped, Abel opened his eyes ever so tenderly.

    His eyes moved up, seeing her shut eyes. "I wasбн indeed, very dumbfounded at first," came out a rasped voice. "Until now, I still am."

    Not that Abel didn''t understand her unwillingness to be turned into a vampire. Aries had never known about the other races who walked on the same surface as her. epting him for what he was and epting to be one of them were two different cases. However, if she refused, that was probably the only time Abel would not honor her will. She could hate him for that, but he would rather have Aries hate him than lose her in this world, knowing there were ways to keep her alive.

    "What a piece of work," he whispered, moving his face to nt a soft kiss on her lips. "Youбн make me sad."

    For some reason, his lips curled up against her lips despite hisst remarks. He didn''t know why he was suddenly smiling or why he felt amused. Abel never felt such mncholy at the thought of death. Actually, he never felt the slightest sadness or anything at all.

    But nowбн even when he knew there were ways, this distinct sadness he never felt in his entire life was reigning in his heart. Yet, he didn''t know why that somehow made him feel relieved. Because at the end of the day, he shouldn''t be this affected, since death had zero value in his eyes.

    Death never made him feel anything, but this sadness was satisfactory. Maybe he was indeed crazy.

    As Abel pulled her body closer to him, a sudden chill went up his spine. Abel shuddered, which he never experienced in the past, propping his elbow against the bed to look at the balcony behind Aries.

    "Hahбн did someone just curse me with such passion?" he muttered, shaking his head and lying downfortably. His eyes fell on her and smiled subtly, patting her back gently.

    "Five daysбн" he whispered, calcting the hour and second he didn''t get to see her. "You''ll stay here for ten days and protect me from Conan."

    The initial sadness and frustration he bore previously slowly disappeared the longer he felt his warmth transferring to him. There was no point in dwelling in it, anyway. Aries had decided and Abel too. Their decisions might be different from each other, but even when they didn''t specifically voice it out бк or rather, Aries didn''t бк they were aware of how the gears in their heads turned.

    It was just a matter if Aries could find ways to cure herself to keep living as a human or die for Abel to turn her so they could be together forever.

 Chapter 509 The Forbidden Mansion

    When Aries opened her eyes, it was almost eventide, and her position was already facing the open balcony. Her first instinct was to check Abel, and to her surprise, the side of the bed where he slept was empty.

    "Abel?" she called, propping her elbow against the mattress as she rose from the bed. Aries looked around the grandiose emperor''s chambers and frowned.

    "Where did he go?" her brows creased, letting out a shallow breath. She flung her legs out of the bed, assuming Abel went somewhere for some important matter.

    Aries strutted towards the balcony that was slightly opened. The second she stepped her foot outside, the soft breeze kissed her cheeks, bringing a subtle smile to her face. Her eyes fell on the railing and, for some odd reason, she pictured Abel sitting on the railing all alone.

    "I heard he rarely spends his time in the emperor''s chambers," she whispered before approaching the railing where she rested her arms to enjoy the sunset. Her eyes gleamed with satisfaction as the emperor''s balcony had a good view of the sunset.

    "It''s far better than the Rose Pce," she continued, recalling her time in the Rose Pce as Abel''s pet. "How strangeбн"

    Her eyes softened as she drew a breath. Ever since returning from the Maganti Empire, this was Aries''s first time stepping foot on the Haimirich Imperial Pce grounds. She was too stupefied in the afternoon at the horror she witnessed in the emperor''s chancery, that she didn''t have the leisure to reminisce about her time in this ce.

    With a smile, Aries recalled the first time she arrived in this ce. She moved her gaze in a direction and chuckled.

    "If he stands on the railing, he had a good view of my room in the Rose Pce," she mumbled, imagining Abel standing on the railing while staring in the Rose Pce''s direction. Although Aries could see the Emperor''s Pce from the ce of her dwelling in the past, she couldn''t see the emperor''s room; she didn''t know which way the emperor''s room was, anyway.

    "Who would have thought I''ll feel slightly strange?" she smiled, peeling her eyes away from the direction of the Rose Pce. "Beforeing in here, I was expecting another hell. Staying in this ce longer, I felt at home. But then, I chose to stay in the Marquess'' estate, even though this ce has a special ce in my heart."

    "Surely, I am soplicated," Aries added with a slight chuckle while talking to herself. "I don''t know if I truly missed this ce orбн just the memories of that Aries."

    Her lips stretched even wider when she felt a presence behind her. ncing over her shoulder, her eyes gleamed with satisfaction upon seeing Abel''s figure.

    "What do you think, Abel?" she asked, setting her eyes ahead when she saw him advance in her direction.

    "What do I think?" he repeated and hummed, standing behind her, and nting his hands on the railing on either side of her. "I think you just missed me."

    "No doubt about that." She humored back, enjoying the breeze that was blowing past her. "Ever since returning, it was strange I kept telling myself, ''who would have thought?''"

    "Many things happened, darling."

    "Many things happened, indeed, and until now, everything still felt surreal." She rocked her head in agreement. "Maganti''s downfall, the reinstatement of Rikhill as an officialnd of Maganti, Curtis, my brother the Marquess, you and me, and us."

    "Who would have thought Roman would end up following you back in here? Even Violet cannot believe she will settle in and that she only used to hear about. Who would have thought an ambitious knight like Climaco will also pledge his knight''s vow to me?" She lowered her eyes as her smile slightly faded. "It was a hectic year for everyone, wasn''t it?"<sub> </sub>

    "It was." Abel lowered his head until his chin was resting on her shoulder. "But not for everyone."

    "Except you?" Aries nced at him and caught him side-eyeing her.

    "Mhm. My everyday life with Conan is hectic," he humored, peeling his eyes away from her in a particr direction. "A day doing nothing or nothing happening will kill me."

    "Because you can''t stand boredom?"

    "I can''t stand the thought that another day will pass and I was still alive."

    Aries bit her lower lip as she retracted her eyes away from him. "But now?" she asked.

    "I prefer idling whenever you are around." His answer was quick, but his voice had a tinge ofziness. "I don''t know if your effect on me is good, for I feel satisfied with you around, or was it called a negative effect for wanting to do nothing except to focus on you?"

    "You tter me." She chuckled, resting the side of her head against him. "Should I start selling ssified information now to earn? I don''t think there''s any upation that could sustain your luxurious lifestyle."

    "Mhmбн I''ll send a list of people who will be interested in the business."

    "I''m joking." Aries bumped her head against him mildly. "Even for a good reason, I don''t want to betray this empire."

    "You just do not want to work and be the breadwinner of the family."

    "Well, my brother gives me a handsome allowance." She giggled, looking ahead once again. "I don''t see any reason working so hard when he spoils me silly."

    Silence enveloped them with such warmth and serenity. As they watched the sunset, Aries furrowed her brows. Her eyes veered in a direction and noticed that from here, they could see the forbidden mansion that she was warned not to approach in the past.

    "Now that I think about it, that ceбн" Aries snapped her eyes and pointed in the forbidden mansion''s direction. "Why is it called a forbidden mansion?"

    His brows rose, shifting his eyes to where she was pointing at. When his eyes fell on the gloomy mansion from the distance, he smacked his lips. But instead of exining or answering her question, Abel looked back at her.

    "Do you want to go there?"

 Chapter 510 A Place He Had Always Yearned That Never Existed

    In the past, Aries approached the forbidden mansion that no one could enter within the pce grounds out of in curiosity. Her rtionship with Abel at that time was still unstable. But from what she knew, or what she was told, it was the crown prince''s dwelling.

    But now she learned Abel''s child, the crown prince was nothing but a part of the history for Abel to take the throne as a bastard child of his bastard tyrant of a father. The father and the child were Abel. Still, she was curious. For some reason, she felt like that ce held more value and sentiments aside from the fact it was this nonexistent crown prince''s dwelling.

    And this assumption simply grew solid when Abel invited her to that ce. She couldn''t point it out exactly, but that was what she felt. Hence, she agreed.

    Abel carried her in his arms, but he didn''t let his wings out to fly to the forbidden mansion. Instead, Abel simply skipped from roof to roof until they reached the off-limits area. The mansion was the same from the outside when she first snuck in here -- even worse, to be honest.

    It still looked haunted with vines crawling on the walls, withered leaves cracking under their feet at every step, and untrimmed grasses that were almost at tall as her. Yet, the pathway was clear, making it smooth for them to reach the mansion''s entrance.

    Abel opened the door, and its echoing creak pierced the silent air mildly. Aries cautiously followed him inside, and much to her surprise, unlike the haunted appearance it had from the outside, the inside of the mansion was immactely clean.

    She looked around, treading carefully inside. Her mouth fell open at the antique furniture that still looked brand new as if they were preserved to keep its value. The interior looked a bit simple, yet sophisticated, making her think whoever lived here was no doubt an aristocrat.

    However, before she could dwell in the mansion''s elegance, she caught some paintings hanging on the wall. They were nk canvasses framed delicately, making her brows creased in puzzlement.

    "What are those?" she blurted out under her breath, shifting her eyes at Abel, who stood motionless near the shut entrance of the mansion. Thetter snapped his eyes at the framed nk canvass hung on the wall.

    "A nk canvass." His tone was in, giving her a knowing look.

    "I mean, why are they mounded on the wall if they were nk?"

    "I know, right?" he shrugged, setting his eyes at the painting on the side. "Why even disy something that isn''t seen by others?"

    Aries cocked her head to the side, fixing her eyes on Abel''s side profile. When he took steps towards the nearest nk painting, Aries instinctively followed. Standing beside him, Aries raised her brows while he was staring at it intently.

    "Right..." he whispered. "Because no one ever visits this ce. Hence, why bother putting up decorations that those who live here won''t enjoy?"

    "I... don''t understand..." she muttered awkwardly.

    Abel pressed his lips into a thin line and cast her a cursory look. "Darling, have you ever gone far away from home to breathe and forget?" he asked, making her brows furrowed.

    "Had you ever wandered far from home because you can''t stand living in it? But as you go farther, you keep thinking<strong> ''I want to go home,'' </strong>and then, you go home, nothing changes." He set his eyes back on the nk painting in front of them. "The emptiness was still there, and the yearning for a ce that doesn''t seem to exist continuously grows."<sub> </sub>

    "This ce... I can''t go back to that mansion. That''s why I recreated it here, thinking I can somehow delude myself I''m home. But s, I was neverpletely home... anywhere, never," he added, and that... Aries felt that.

    She felt his longing, his emptiness, and his heart. Aries pursed her lips as her eyes softened, watching him stare at the nk canvass with mixed emotions in his eyes. Without thinking, she reached her hand out and caressed his cheek with her fingertips.

    When Abel turned his head and met her eyes, his lips curled. "Until you came." He walked to the same spot, facing her squarely.

    Abel cupped her face and smiled subtly. His eyes scanned her beautiful face, gently brushing her cheek with his thumb. He was never home until Aries came into his life.

    "Who would have thought?" he continued, using her previous words. "That my assumption that the ce I thought doesn''t exist is wrong? And I had been asking myself the wrong questions all this time? It wasn''t what ce, but who?"

    Aries pursed her lips and smiled, holding his hand that was cupping her face. When he lowered his hand, she slipped her fingers in between the gaps of his fingers. They looked at each other and smiled before facing the nk canvass once more.

    "So you keep nk canvasses back there?" she inquired, squeezing his hand mildly.

    "These are nks, but back home, they weren''t. At least, they weren''t nk in the eyes of those who carried our blood," he exined, making her tilt her head to the side.

    "So it''s like some sort of illusion?"

    "Not an illusion, but more like... well, I don''t exactly know why that father of mine does that." He shrugged, and this time, Aries looked at him squarely. Seeing that her eyes were filled with intrigue but she was holding back to ask more, Abel chuckled.

    "I told you, darling. I came from a family of artists... or rather, a family of weirdos," he continued in a lighter tone. "My father paints, but his works can only be appreciated by those who carried this cursed blood. I never asked him and he never said anything regarding it. He just painted to his heart''s content and hung them everywhere, but we''re too indifferent to even bother."

    The side of his lips curled up slightly. "However, although I could replicate almost everything in this ce, I don''t think anyone could copy his works. He was the best painter I knew in my life."

    Aries could not help but smile as she observed him talking about his father. Abel rarely mentioned his family, and whenever they do, it was mostly about his sisters. But now that he was talking about his father, Aries could detect the slight respect in his voice.

    ''Why does he always say he doesn''t like his family when he looks happy whenever he talks about them?'' she wondered, keeping her thoughts to herself. ''Even when he talked about Marse, he sounded solemn with a tinge of excitement.''

    Aries took a deep breath, listening to Abel''s voice. ''He makes me question his opinions about his sisters. I don''t think they were that bad.''

 Chapter 511 The House Wasnt The Same As When He Left Home

    Abel toured Aries around the forbidden mansion, although there wasn''t anything to see. But she was interested in the ce for the obvious reason, especially when they reached his room.

    Aries walked around Abel''s room in the forbidden mansion, which barely had anything other than a bed and a few stands. There weren''t chairs to sit on like what anyone had for their chambers.

    "Do you stay in here?" she asked, standing in front of an empty stand and wiping the top of its surface with her fingertip. She checked her finger to check if she got any dust, but not a speck of dust clung to it.

    "Rarely." Abel plopped down on the edge of the bed, hands on either side of him, eyes on Aries. "Darling,e and let''s make love."

    Aries chuckled and looked back. "You ask as if you''re simply asking for a candy."

    "What''s the difference?" he cocked his head to the side. "I suck and lick you."

    "Oh, Abel." Aries turned on her heel, leaning her back against the stand while folding her arms under her chest. "What time did you wake up? Shouldn''t you use this time resting?"

    "And what makes you think I am not resting right now?" he returned in a knowing tone, narrowing his eyes to size her up from head to toe. "I''m sitting, looking at the most gorgeousdy my eyes hadid upon, and doing nothing to her. This is resting"

    She pursed her lips, suppressing theughter that was tempting to escape her throat. She arched a brow, watching him pat the side of the bed, wiggling his brows with a grin stered on his face.

    "Well." Aries shrugged, unlinking her arms and marching towards him. When she stood in front of him, Abel looked up. He instantly raised his arms around her waist, feeling her rear with his palm.

    "Why am I so aroused by the sheer thought of fucking you in this room as if it waspletely unexpected?" he crooned, grinning from ear to ear. It felt like they were teens locked in this very room for the most innocent reason, only to feel this indescribable lust with the sheer thought of having just the two of them.

    "Ahhбн let''s do it on the stairs." His brows rose excitedly while Aries pped his shoulder.

    "Won''t you be happy if I pin you down here?" she teased, nting her hand on his chest. Aries pushed him down ever so slowly, raising her foot on the edge of the bed. However, just when she bent over with a yful grin, the door creaked ever so slowly but loudly.

    "Grandpa?" Aries instantly froze as soon as Sunny''s voice caressed her ears. She jumped away on instinct, leaving Abel hanging as he spread his fingers.

    "Oh, Sunny?" Aries turned her head towards the door. Her eyes fell on Sunny, holding the door open, looking back at them innocently.

    Sunny blinked twice, darting her eyes between Abel, lying on the bed with his feet over it and still touching the floor, then at Aries, who already stood beside the mattress. Thetter looked a bit nervous, smiling awkwardly as if she was caught red-handed.

    "Are you going to make my uncle?" she asked, and obviously, Abel shamelessly replied, "was about to, little girl, until you came in and ruined the mood."

    Aries red at him before sporting a bright smile at Sunny, advancing in the little girl''s spot. She squatted down to look at the little girl at eye level.

    "Sunny, what are you doing here?" she asked, diverting the little girl''s attention from the subject a child shouldn''t even know about. "Were you lost?"

    "Sunny stays in Tilly''s house."<sub> </sub>

    "Tilly''s house?"

    "This is Tilly''s house."

    "For your information, this isn''t Mathilda''s house. It''s mine." Abel rolled his eyes, still lying t on the bed, sporting an ugly frown. "It just looks like it''s that house."

    Aries and Sunny cast him a cursory look before the former faced Sunny. "Have you eaten?"

    "Darling, that is the funniest question I heard all day." He intoned in disbelief, but Aries ignored him.

    "Mhm. Grandpa fed Sunny before he returned to where Grandmama sleeps."

    "Ohбн" Aries bit her inner lip and nced back at Abel. ''So that''s what he did when I didn''t see him when I woke up, huh?''

    "Thenбн" Aries trailed off as she set her eyes back to Sunny, wondering what she should tell her. Obviously, she and Abel were in the middle of flirting and were about to take it to the next level, but it would be in her conscience to send Sunny away to continue. Thetter might not be a normal child, but she was still a child in Aries''s heart and mind.

    "Grandmama, Sunny will show you around Tilly''s house." Sunny offered adorably, clutching Aries''s arm with her chubby small hand.

    Studying the little girl''s round face and doe eyes, Aries''s heart melted. Hence, before she could even think about other things or people бк Abel, to be exact бк Aries already nodded.

    "Sure," she said, reaching for Sunny''s hand before straightening her back. Aries then shifted her eyes to Abel, seeing him arched a brow. "Sunny will tour me around. I''ll see youter."

    Aries winked and grinned at Abel, and without waiting for his reply, she looked down at Sunny. "Shall we?"

    "Mhm!" Sunny smiled, almost giving Aries a heart attack at the level of cuteness this girl wields.

    With that being said, Sunny guided Aries out of the room to tour her around the house for the second time. Even so, Aries found it interesting. Abel toured her just minutes ago, but each room from Sunny''s perspective was different from the original information from Abel.

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> Abel stayed in the same spot in his room for minutes. His frown slowly faded, listening to the footsteps faintly echoing within the mansion. He might have stayed in the room, but he was listening to Sunny''s and Aries''s voices in silence.

    "I seeбн" he mused under his breath, chuckling dryly. "That houseбн sounds less boring with more tenants in it. No wonder Mathilda had bothered sending that glutton here."

    The side of his lips curled up before he arched a brow. Abel propped his elbow against the mattress, pushing his body up. He then turned his head towards the balcony, and his lips stretched from ear to ear.

    "Another guest," he whispered, sauntering away from the bed and onto the balcony. "They seemed to have decided that Haimirich will be the meeting ce... things are looking more interesting."

 Chapter 512 The Reason Sunny Was Here

    "This is my father''s workshop!"

    Aries smiled and looked around while Sunny spread her arms wide open. She looked around the room almost exactly the same as the other rooms. Sunny had named each room differently than Abel''s, and it sounded like it was an even fun home.

    "But it''s not like Father''s workshop because it was clean." Sunny frowned and sighed. She then dragged her feet towards the wall, touching it, and let out another sigh. "Sunny''s drawing is not here too."

    "Sunnyбн" Aries sauntered towards Sunny and squatted beside her. "Do you miss your mama and papa?"

    Sunny looked back at her and nodded. "But Tilly said Sunny can''t go or Sunny will die."

    "What?"

    "Sunny used to join Papa whenever he paints and yed with his materials." Sunny ignored Aries as if she didn''t just drop a bomb, staring at the wall she was touching. "Mama, Sunny, my big brother, and Papa painted on this wall, so Papa will not feel sad if hecks inspiration."

    "But Tilly''s house is empty now," she added with another sigh.

    "Wait, Sunny." Aries held Sunny''s arm and carefully guided the little girl to face her. "Did you say Tilly told you to go here because you''ll die?"

    "Mhm."

    "How?"

    "Because Sunny is a demon born in the future." Sunny blinked. "Sunny doesn''t exist now."

    "What?"

    Sunny tilted her head to the side when Aries cocked her head. She blinked and blinked, keeping her mouth shut while Aries just looked back at the little girl with myriads of unspoken inquiry.

    "Grandmama, do you want to meet Tilly''s friend?" Sunny offered after a minute of silence.

    "Ohбн" Aries cleared her throat, wanting to ask many more questions, but she felt like Sunny would only leave her with more questions than answers. "Tilly''s friend? You meanбн the king on the maind?"

    Sunny nodded and reached for Aries''s hand. "He would like to see you."

    "Would like to see meбн?" Aries furrowed her brows, but before she could think anything further, Sunny tugged her hand. She smiled and followed Sunny''s guidance, holding the little girl''s warm hands to a particr room on the second floor.

    When they stood in front of a shut door, Sunny stopped and looked back at Aries. She pointed at the door.

    ? "He''s inside," said Sunny, making Aries''s brows raise before thetter gazed back at the door.

    Aries took a deep breath and took a step forward, still holding Sunny''s hand. She knocked on the door thrice, but silence was what she heard from the inside. She looked down at Sunny once more and then nodded slightly.

    Aries announced her arrival politely before pushing the door carefully. When she took a step inside, her eyes fell on the man lying on the bed. Aries''s steps grew cautious the closer she approached the bed, and the lines on her forehead deepened as she stood on the side of the bed.

    The man lying motionless on the bed was a middle-aged man. His hair was copper with a streak of ash бк almost like Sunny''s hair, but Sunny''s hazel streak was much lighter inparison. Even when the man had his eyes shut, Aries could tell he was charming despite the visible wrinkles under his eyes, forehead, and the side of his lips.

    "This is the king?" Aries breathed out and gazed down to her side, where Sunny stood. Thetter nodded.<sub> </sub>

    "He''s Tilly''s friend."

    Aries looked back at the king of thend of vampires with conflict in her eyes. "He''s Sir Conan''s father?"

    "They look alike." Sunny blinked back to the king, who was in a deep slumber. "Grandpa told me not to tell Handsome Uncle about the sleeping grandpa. But sleeping grandpa is kind even when he was awake."

    "Sunny, is heбн?" Aries trailed off, biting her tongue to stop herself from asking. But Sunny willingly continued it for her.

    "Dead?" Sunny shook her head. "Grandpa is just sleeping because he was fighting everyone in his house, even if it was already on fire. Sunny came to his rescue and brought him here because Tilly will be sad if he died."

    "Ahhбн will he wake up?"

    "He is in a slumber." Sunny looked up at Aries with her clear doe eyes.

    "Slumber?"

    "But not in an eternal slumber. He won''t wake up if he was forced to enter an eternal slumber," she rified, which apparently rified nothing for Aries. "A vampire enters a slumber when he goes beyond his limit or forced himself to enter a slumber. When he will wake up is unknown, perhaps, if he recovers."

    "I seeбн" Aries rocked her head in understanding, trying to put everything in proper order so they would make sense. She fixed her eyes on the man lying on the bed and could tell he truly resembled Conan, even though he had his eyes closed.

    ''I don''t think he''s an evil man,'' she thought and let out a faint sigh. ''I wonderбн what did he exactly do for Sir Conan to hate this man?''

    Aries was curious, but she had already decided to let thingse her way instead of seeking the answers herself. She had a personal dilemma to resolve. For as long as Abel and Sunny don''t mention this man''s presence in this ce, there wouldn''t be a problem, right?

    "Rightбн Sunny, Abel will be upset if we don''t return." Aries faced Sunny once more after minutes of idling in the room. "Shall we go back and ask him to treat us to a grand dinner?"

    "But Grandpa left."

    "What?"

    "He left long ago."

    Aries furrowed her brows, looking at Sunny with genuine wonder in her eyes. "How did you know that?"

    "He told me," exined Sunny, without much change in her expression. "And I felt him leave Tilly''s house earlier."

    "Is that soбн?" Aries could only trust Sunny''s words, knowing it was already strange Abel didn''t show up until now or followed them. "Then, let''s return and have some snacks, alright?"

    "Sunny is hungry."

    Aries''s smile stretched wider as she nodded. "Shall we?" she squeezed Sunny''s hand, and with that being said, the two of them left the chambers where the king of the maind was sleeping.

    Little did they know, as soon as Aries closed the door behind her, the eyes underneath the King''s lids flickered.

 Chapter 513 What A Strange Place

    When Aries and Sunny left the forbidden mansion, the two of them stopped in the middle of the hallway. Aries''s eyes widened, watching Conan stop several steps away from them. Conan furrowed his brows, narrowing his eyes suspiciously.

    "What are you twoбн" Conan raised a hand, pointing at the way where the two of them came from. "Did youe from the forbidden pce?"

    "It''s Tilly''s house," said Sunny in a knowing tone.

    "Sir Conan, Abel toured me around the forbidden mansion, but he suddenly left because he was... a little bit upset. Yes, upset," Aries exined hurriedly, marching towards Conan and stopping in front of him. "What about you? Where are you nning to go?"

    "Ughбн obviously to the only ce where I can be at peace without people being cruel to me." Conan scrunched his nose up, ring at Aries to remind her of how harsh she was to him. "I''m done for the day. Hmph!"

    Just as Conan walked past Aries, thetter clumsily held his arm in panic. He arched a brow, ncing at her hand on his arm, and then up to meet her eyes.

    "What?" he asked with an ugly frown.

    "Handsome Uncle, you can''t go there because бк" The rest of Sunny''s words were shoved back her throat when Aries suddenly covered her mouth.

    "I can''t go there because?" Conan''s frown deepened, darting his eyes between Aries and Sunny. Aries had already let him go when he covered Sunny''s mouth, standing behind the little girl while she smiled unnaturally. "Lady Aries, what were you hiding?"

    "What am I hiding?" Aries feigned innocence, tilting her head to the side.

    Conan narrowed his eyes once again, but then smacked his lips. "You look even more suspicious now, but never mind," he said, shrugging. "As if you listen to me."

    Conan shook his head mildly, still disappointed and upset that Aries didn''t even give him a chance to hear his side of the story. He knew she would still get angry either way, but she should''ve at least given him the chance.

    Seeing that Conan turned on his heel to walk away, Aries''s rm bells rang in her head.

    "Wait!" she called without thinking twice, stopping him just when he took a step forward. Thetter looked back at her, frowning, getting even more peeved now. "We''re going to have dinner. You should join us."

    "No, thanks." Conan snorted. "I''d rather sleep than get bullied again."

    "I didn''t!" Aries breathed out in distress, but her desire to stop him from going to where his father was sleeping reigned in her heart. "I didn''t bully you."

    "What?"

    "You went too far." Aries held Sunny behind her, raising her chin, standing toe to toe with him. "You''re the one who bullied my husband and brother, and you''re lucky you only got a piece of me."

    "Hah!" Conan scoffed, facing her squarely. For a moment, he was rendered speechless and could only let out a dryugh.

    "Even if, let''s say, Abel and my brother aren''t entirely correct, you shouldn''t have chained them where they get electrocuted," she continued with a huff, eyes glinting with anger. "They don''t do that to you."

    "Wowбн they don''t do that to me? How did you know they didn''t?"

    "I just know."

    "No, you don''t." Conan let out a low snarl. "You won''t get angry if they were the ones who did that to me! Rightбн you were never my ally."

    "Hah!" This time, Aries was in disbelief at his audacity to even speak about the alliance. "Sir Conan, let me remind you ?I stick around with you even when you shoved me inside the lion''s cage multiple times in the past!"<sub> </sub>

    "What? Are we talking about the past now? Lady Aries, allow me to also remind you I stopped His Majesty from slitting your throat multiple times in the past! If not for me, you would''ve died a long time ago!"

    "Youбн!" Aries ground her teeth. Her face shed in red, just like his face. Both their eyes glinted in anger, and before she could think rationally, Aries raised a hand and grabbed a portion of his hair.

    "What did you say??" she barked, and Conan snorted. Just like her, Conan didn''t hesitate to grab a portion of her hair, raising his chin to taunt her.

    "What? You''re the first to dig the archive. Why are you angry now?" He snorted, grinding his teeth angrily.

    Sunny clutched her hand closer to her chest, taking a step back as the two barked at each other like cats and dogs. She darted her eyes between Aries and Conan, drawing her lips into a tight sh.

    Aries and Conan were acting like children, arguing while holding each other''s hair. They were just waiting for who would pull whose hair first before they actually fight.

    ''They look like Sunny and Sunny''s big brother,'' Sunny thought before frowning, hearing her stomach grumble. She rubbed her tummy and looked at the hallway. ''Sunny is hungryбн''

    Sunny had been roaming the imperial pce sinceing to this ce. Hence, she didn''t hesitate to saunter off, following the mouthwatering aromaing from the kitchen far away from the forbidden pce.

    Aries was so busy arguing with Conan that both of them didn''t notice Sunny already left to eat.

    ******

    When Sunny reached the inner pce, she bumped into Roman. Thetter stopped and gazed at the little girl, tilting his head to the side.

    "Strong Uncle, are you looking for grandmama?" Sunny asked, blinking innocently.

    "No, but the Marquess was." Roman furrowed his brows when Sunny pointed in a direction.

    "Grandmama is there with Handsome Uncle. They were fighting," said Sunny, watching Roman nce in the hallway she pointed at. "Strong Uncle, I think both Handsome Uncle and Grandmama are in danger."

    Roman''s already knitted brows creased even more, but when he gazed down at Sunny once again, the little girl already walked past him. He pressed his lips into a thin line, wondering if he should help this little girl to where she was going or check Aries and Conan. In the end, Roman followed his instincts.

    Sunny was a capable young girl; Roman knew that since the blood in him could tell, the little girl could snap his neck if she so pleased. Hence, he followed the direction where Sunny said Aries and Conan were.

    Much to his dismay, upon reaching a certain quiet hallway, he heard angry voices echoing. When he turned into the hallway, he caught two figures fighting while holding each other''s hair. Roman narrowed his eyes, recognizing Aries and then the person she was fighting, Conan.

    "Whatбн" Roman trailed off, watching Aries and Conan fight like children. "It doesn''tбн look life-threatening, though."

    He watched the two and listened to their shouts before he decided to turn on his heel and saunter off. Roman pretended he wasn''t here and saw nothing; it wasn''t his problem.

    As Roman walked away, a shallow breath slipped past his lips. He had imagined what sort of hell the imperial pce of the Haimirich Empire was. He had even considered the worst, telling himself beforehand to tread on thin ice and be ten times more careful than when he was back in the Maganti Empire.

    However, what he had seen so far wereбн just too many ridiculous things. The emperor and the Marquess are chained so they work their asses off, everyone avoiding the emperor''s chancery, and then now, Conan and Aries having a cat fight.

    ''What a strange ce,'' he thought, shaking his head, wondering if he arrived in the correct Haimirich Empire because this ce wasn''t what he expected in his head.

 Chapter 514 Fights Like Cats And Dogs, Love Like Siblings.

    "I hate you!" Conan grumbled, hugging his knees with his back against the wall of the hallway where he fought Aries. Beside him was Aries. Just like his disheveled hair, Aries was just as bedraggled as him with dirt on their faces and clothes. The lines between their brows deepened, ring daggers at the wall across from them, almost digging a hole in it with just their gazes.

    "I hate you just as passionately," she huffed, her arms resting over her knees.

    Silence descended on the hallway, with neither of them talking for the longest time. The anger in her eyes slowly faded, clicking her tongue in annoyance.

    "You shouldn''t have done that," she mustered the courage to speak after the prolonged silence. "Not because Abel cannot die, you can always resort to the extreme."

    Aries lowered her eyes and rested her chin on top of her arms. "I understand aА?Abel had longed for death, but that was in the past. Don''t kill him."

    Hearing her voice that cracked in the end, Conan frowned. He also lowered his eyes, unable to argue with her just like moments ago.

    "Life and death might have little value for you or for Abel. I am not the one to talk whenpare to you, I had only been here for over two decades. Two decades... I barely lived through that, so I can''t imagine living a century or two," she continued in a quiet and somber tone. "Even so, don''t take life and death lightly anymore. You, my brother, and Abel... always get riled up when I inflict a minor scratch. What makes you think I don''t feel the same when you get hurt?"

    Aries then turned her head to him, resting her cheek on top of her arms. "And it hurts when you hurt each other or yourself. Don''t do that to them or to yourself. It was this world and other people''s job to hurt you, not yourself. That''s what I learned this past year."

    "I''m sorry if I reacted that way. I didn''t mean to hurt your feelings," she added under her breath, but sincerity filled her voice and eyes. "There were more actions I could''ve taken, but I can''t reverse the time. I can only own up to my actions."

    Conan stared at her soft eyes and let out a shallow breath. He bit his inner lower lip, peeling his eyes away from her. He cocked his head back until it was touching the wall behind him.

    "It''s not your fault, it''s me," he whispered, making her lips curl up a bit. "It was my fault, and I''m sorry."

    "It''s fine. I felt better after beating you," she humored, causing his brow to arch.

    "You didn''t, I did. Look at yourself." Conan snorted, looking at her in disbelief. Silence fell on them once more as they stared at each other.

    "Pfft --" Aries burst out inughter at the same time Conan did. "You look hideous."

    "Haha! Do you think you look pretty right now? You look like a witch!" he intoned, chuckling as they insulted how they looked like a mess right now.

    Their waves ofughter echoed across the empty and barely lit hallway. Roman, who was leaning against the end of the hallway, staying on standby lest their fight would be bloody so he could intervene, smiled. His arms were folded under his chest, listening to them in silence.

    ''Haimirich... is truly different,'' he told himself, retracting his back from the wall to walk away as silently as possible. ''I can''t say it is way better or worse, but it''s definitely a home for some of them.''<sub> </sub>

    Aries and Conan keptughing, not knowing about Roman''s presence all along. When their waves ofughter subsided, they drew a deep breath and let it out sharply.

    "We''re silly," she mused, shaking her head mildly. "How can we fight like children? Thest time I fought someone like that was Davien."

    "The former crown prince?"

    Aries looked back at Conan and nodded. "Mhm. He is smart and a respectable man. But no one knew that behind that public image lies a ridiculous man who used to grab his sister''s hair when our banter gets heated. It would be scandalous."

    "I''ll give you the benefit of the doubt," said Conan and shrugged, peeling his eyes away from her to the wall across from them. "I read his records and achievements. It''s hard to believe he can be like that."

    "He''s a man full of surprises. He was many things, but among those things, he''s overall cruel," she answered, setting her eyes at the light in front of them. "Maybe that is the reason I was drawn to you at first."

    Her eyes squinted for a bit when she smiled. "Do you remember the first time we met at the world summit?"

    "Mhm. You don''t know how stressed I was back in that ce."

    "Abel scared me out of my wits," she continued while carrying the same subtle smile. "And then you appeared, nagging him as if you aren''t afraid of getting your neck snapped. But what amused or baffled me is that you didn''t even console me with words. Back then, I thought your words were the cruelest, not the murder I had witnessed or the fact that I escaped Joaquin''s clutches only to fall deeper in hell."

    Conan smiled bitterly. "What is the point of reassuring you just to give you false hope?"

    "Exactly." Aries nodded. "They were the cruelest, but also the best constion I received. It might sound strange, but I thank you for that time. People always lie, but you... you didn''t. At least, for the first time in years, someone was honest with me and was kind enough to hurt me with a painful truth than coax me with a lie."

    "Perhaps... that is also the reason I stuck around even when you kept betraying me," she added.

    "I didn''t betray you."

    "Mhm, maybe you didn''t." Aries drew a deep breath and looked up. "Maybe you did since you kept shoving me in Abel''s side... but even so, I was thankful. If not for those times, I don''t think I will get to see the beauty that lies behind the terrifying mask of a man branded as a tyrant."

    She then cast him a side-eye. "You were just as important to me. You were my best friend, and even when we fight just like earlier, I don''t really hate you. I still want and will always cherish you... till the day I die."

 Chapter 515 Things Conan Never Said

    "I want to cherish youбн till the day I die."

    Conan looked at Aries, watching her peel her eyes away from him. But he kept his eyes on her side profile, staring at the curl of her lips in silence. When he looked away, a deep exhale escaped his nostrils.

    "His Majestyбн is the only family I have," he whispered, causing her brows to raise. "That is why I want him to be happy more than you. Don''t thank me, because no matter which angle we look at it, I betrayed you one way or another."

    "It''s in the past now, and many things had already happened."

    "I envy you. You have a loving family who will die just to protect you," he continued, ignoring her understanding remark. "The more I get to know Rikhill, the more I tell myself, what''s so bad if she experienced hell in the hands of that man? You lived a good life, so two years of pain should be nothing."

    Aries frowned but didn''t interrupt him. All she could do was stare at him while listening to his confession.

    "His Majesty will also kill you, so maybe that''s the reward she would be thankful forбн was what I thought back then. I don''t know you and you don''t know me; we''re strangers connected because of one man," he continued and chuckled bitterly. "But the more I get to know you, the more I forget that youбн were once a stranger. Before I know it, I like you. And that terrifies me."

    Conan lowered his eyes to hide the bitterness in them. "You were a human and a dumb one at that. I don''t know how to break what we are to you; it scared me witless."

    "Thing is, it''s not about that you might change. What scared us the most is how you will look at us," he added. "You were a smartdy and you think of the words you say or do before saying or taking action. But your eyesбн your blood, your heartbeat, they never lie."

    "After all, you shamelessly invaded space in our hearts and imed it as yours. Living for centuries, you can say life had depleted our hearts to almost nothing. A space that is as tiny as a dot is already a huge part of our heartsбн and you took at least two dots or five." Conanughed dryly. "That is whyбн I was thankful that you epted us and sees us the same, and for handling our hearts with care. Not many have such courage and I want to give back."

    This time, he mustered the courage to face her. Conan peered at her eyes gently, and like usual, her eyes shone rity.

    "After all, you are a human, and your life is fleeting. There were still many things you will have to learn in this world we dragged you into, and cking for a minute can cost you your life," he confessed sincerely. "His Majesty is strong and confident with his capabilities, but I cannot becent. Not because I don''t trust him or my capabilities. It''s just that people always find ways to hone their wickedness. Anything can happen, and I don''t want to lose either of you."

    Aries''s lips were drawn into a thin line, unable to look away from the sincerity in his eyes. Her heart knew he meant every word he said, but he unknowingly tugged the strings of her heart and guilt.

    "Iбн" her lips quivered as her eyes shook. "... think I''m dying."

    "What?"

    "Abel wants to turn me, but I want to find a more natural resolution first. My brother doesn''t know yet, but I think I''m sick." After her confession, the following words naturally came out of her mouth and she couldn''t stop. "Just yesterday, I nearly fainted after a nosebleed. Sometimes, I will wake up and all my joints were in pain. At first, I thought it was because we had been on the road, but I realized I had been feeling this way even back in the Maganti Empire."

    Aries felt like a thorn was plucked out of her throat after breaking the news to him. She smacked her throat as she leaned back; her back fusing against the wall.<sub> </sub>

    "I don''t know what to feel about it, honestly." She let out a dryugh, patting her knees to keep them from shaking. "Of course, you might think it''s not that of a big problem, since there is another way to keep me in this world. However, Iбн can''t understand why I feel so reluctant about the idea."

    "It''s not like bing a vampire is all that bad. Aside from changing my way of living, I can live for as long as I can. I will be with Abel, with my brother, with everyone. The more I think about it, the more it sounds perfect and convenient. But why do I feel like bing oneбн is a decision I will regret?" A shortugh escaped her lips as she looked back at him. "And it terrifies me."

    "What do you think?" she asked. "Am I being dramatic?"

    Conan pressed his lips while his jaw clenched. "I don''t know. I never understood humans and their nature to oveplicate things."

    "Why?" she inquired once more. "What does being a vampire feel like?"

    "Hahбн I don''t know." He shrugged, peeling his eyes away from her.

    "Aren''t you one? How can you not know?"

    Conan went silent for a moment, mulling about a satisfactory answer he could give her. His throat bobbed, taking a deep breath, cocking his head back as he released it through his mouth.

    "That child asked me if I hate being a vampire," he spoke under his breath, recalling Sunny''s remarks when they first met. "She asked me because I don''t use any abilities I had inherited from this blood. But it''s not like I hate being a vampire, but I abhor the blood that is running in my veins. I cursed the blood that sustains my life. I don''t think being a vampire and a human had that much of a difference. For me, it''s the same and only differed from their way of living."

    He cocked his head, and his eyes fell on her. "I don''t know why you are reluctant to be turned, but I am on His Majesty''s side on this one. However, if you truly want to keep living as a human, then I''d help you find a way to cure you." The side of his lips stretched, nodding encouragingly.

    "After all, I don''t think my promise to help you find a suitable pet ever seeded."

    Aries chuckled while he grinned. "Well, I still need to get checked."

    "You won''t ask me anything why I don''t like the blood running in me?" he asked out of nowhere, knowing she had this habit of being stuck in a particr subject.

    "You''ll tell me yourself when you want to," Aries looked back at him and winked. "I''ll wait for that day."

    His lips stretched broader while the luster in her eyes shone beautifully. Both of them chuckled after a minute, setting their eyes back to the wall across from them, and idled in their spot for some time.

 Chapter 516 Leon La Crox

    Abel was sitting on a crate in the dark corner of the fort of the capital. Wearing a cloak with his hood almost covering the upper part of his face, he kept an unlit cigar in between his teeth. He stretched his legs straight, his back leaning against the stacked crates behind him.

    "I am honored to be weed by you." A man''s voice caressed his ear, making Abel snap his eyes ever so slowly.

    Abel slowly peeled his eyes away from the night sky, setting them on the person standing several feet away from him. Unlike the quiet night sky, which allowed thick clouds to dominate it, the fort was bustling. People were unloading a bunch of crates. Some were consumers hoping to get a better deal to sell in the market and the sort.

    Abel ignored the usual scene around him, narrowing his eyes, sizing up the man from head to toe. The side of his lips curled up slightly, eyes glinting in amusement.

    The man standing several feet away from him was wearing a thick cloak, covering half of his upper face. But the cloak he was wearing did not conceal his long stature and lean physique. Nor did it hide the aura the man was exuding and the scent of blood coursing through his veins.

    "Quick question." Abel slowly rose to his feet, raising his chin, making his eyelids droop. "I hope you give me a satisfactory answer."

    The man''s crimson eyes, under the shade of his hood, glinted. He remained silent, staring at this man, Abel, whom he had never seen for a very long time. His throat bobbed the more he stared at Abel, almost in awe at how this man''s aura never change.

    "Are youбн" Abel paused, removing the unlit cigar from his lips. "Are you the man she married? You know who I am talking about."

    "No," answered the man to Abel without a second hesitation. "You are asking the wrong La Crox."

    "Is that so?" Abel rocked his head in understanding. "Then why are you here? You should''ve brought that man here as a gift. I heard a lot of things... apparently, not so pleasant things."

    The man drew his lips into a thin line, breathing out carefully. "That manбн is dead."

    <o>,m "Huh?? Why?" Abel frowned, visibly upset by the news this man brought. "Who dare kill that good-for-nothing before I do?"</o>

    "Your nephew."

    This time, Abel''s brows rose. "Ameria''s son?"

    "I''m even more surprised how you seem to care about your sister''s husband, but haven''t known he''s been dead."

    "Well, my sister hates it when other people meddle with her business. However, it sounds like they are about to meddle with mine. Therefore, I would love to mess with them first lest I don''t get the chance once they arrive here, carrying their problem they want me, the reliable and wealthy big brother, to solve." Abel shrugged indifferently. When he smacked his lips and studied the man''s demure once more, he tilted his head to the side.

    "So?" he added. "What is a La Crox doing in my territory all alone?"

    The man went quiet for a moment before he lowered his head. "Lady Mathilda asked me to seek her siblings."

    "And for what reason?"

    "Her words were seek your help. She didn''t borate which type of help she needed, but I assume you already had an idea what sort of help she needed." The man slowly raised his head, meeting Abel''s eyes once again. "Hence, I am here."

    "Siblings'' help, huh?" Abel rocked his head in understanding. "By siblings, you meanбн"

    "Abel and Marse."

    "And you came here first?"

    "No." The man''s reply was quick and firm. "I tried to seek Lady Marse first."

    "However?"

    "However, I wasn''t granted entry to where she was and it was impossible to meet her right now. That is why I came in here not to waste time."

    Abelughed, scratching his temple with his index. "Timeбн I guess time isn''t on your side."

    "It is not."<sub> </sub>

    "Very well." Abel shrugged. He turned on his heel without rifying anyway, making the man furrow his brows. But just as he took a step, Abel stopped and nced over his shoulder.

    "Mathildaбн how was she?" he asked out of in curiosity since he hadn''t seen his sister for many, many years. Not that he missed her, but he wanted to make sure she was alright.

    "No harmбн or rather, no grave harm has done yet."

    "Is that so?" Abel snapped his eyes ever so tenderly, sauntering away leisurely, waving. "Find the way to the Imperial Pce and seek for lodging. You came at the right time. I needed extra manpower or my dearest vassal will fry my brain again."

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ Imperial Pce ]</strong>

    "Damnбн" Conan could only watch Sunny across from him eat, cked jaw. Thetter had been eating nonstop, and even after Aries and Conan finished their meal, the little girl was still enjoying her dessert.

    "Hey, where are you all putting that food?" he asked out of in curiosity, gazing at the little girl''s tiny figure. Sunny''s head had barely crossed the table, but her appetite was surely monstrous.

    "Tummy." Sunny blinked, facing Aries as thetter wiped the corner of Sunny''s lips with a white cloth.

    "Don''t mind him. He''s just jealous you can eat so much." Aries smiled at the little girl, before clicking her tongue as soon as she set her eyes back to Conan.

    Conan scrunched his nose up in dismay. "Jealous? I feel like throwing up because I felt so full just watching her gobble up all the food within her reach."

    "This is why you haven''t had a wife yet." Aries snapped her tongue once more, causing Conan to gasp in dismay.

    With his hand across his chest, Conan harrumphed. "That is so rude! Whose fault is it I haven''t gotten a wife, eh? It''s your husband''s fault, hogging all thedies'' attention."

    "What?" Aries scoffed, but bit her tongue when she realized Sunny was still there. She covered Sunny''s ears mildly, ring daggers at Conan. "Don''t me Abel for being sinfully beautiful."

    "Lady Aries, do you have a loose screw in the head? I mean, your husband is a notorious бк"

    Creakбн

    "Is a notorious, what, Conan?"

    Conan froze in an instant as soon as he heard Abel''s voice echo in the private dining hall. Seeing how hisplexion paled, Aries scoffed.

    "What? Why are you suddenly silent?" she snorted, and before she could turn her head in Abel''s direction, Sunny jumped and called happily.

    "Uncle~!"

    Aries furrowed her brows and her gaze followed Sunny''s figure to the entrance. She tilted her head, seeing an unfamiliar figure behind Abel. When Sunny reached the two, she run past Abel and hugged the other man. Meanwhile, Abel sauntered towards her, nting a kiss on her cheek before sitting down beside her.

    "Whoбн?" she trailed off, setting her eyes back to Abel, and then noticed Conan from the corner of her eyes. Aries cast Conan a look, and to her surprise, Conan was frowning.

    "What a bothersome guest," was what Conan spat out, and then walked away without a word.

    "What''s going onбн?" she wondered, watching Conan''s retreating figure.

    "Just some ghost in our past." Aries looked back at Abel upon hearing his answer, seeing him wink slightly. "Or rather, a ghost in his past. Don''t worry. He will keep Conan busy for me."

    Aries pressed her lips, studying Abel''s face. She then shifted her eyes past Abel and onto the entrance, seeing the man under a cloak hold Sunny''s hand. When the man straightened his back, he cast Aries a look and bowed, and then guided Sunny away.

    "Will there be an inner dispute?" she murmured, only to hear Abel say, "maybe, maybe not? Depends on Conan."

 Chapter 517 Check Up

    There were many things that Aries wanted to ask regarding the person Abel returned with. However, she knew she didn''t have the leisure to worry about others now. The men she was surrounded with were capable men, whom she hoped would use their brains first before violence. She had to trust them.

    That night, Aries thought Dexter would drag her back to the Vandran Residence with him. Much to her surprise, Dexter didn''t. But instead, he proposed to stay in the Imperial Pce for the next three days.

    For what reason?

    To find out what exactly Aries''s health problem was.

    Which led her to this situation.

    "So?" Abel arched a brow, lying leisurely on his side with his temple propped against his knuckles. Sitting on the chair beside the futon Abel was lying on was the chief royal physician, checking the emperor''s pulse, while the five more royal physicians behind the chief were on standby.

    Nervousness was apparent in the chief''s eyes and sweats formed on his forehead. In the room with them was the Marquess, Dexter, standing on the other side across from them. Beside the Marquess was an armchair where Aries perched. Conan was also present, standing near the physicians.

    "What is your diagnosis?" Abel asked, batting his eyes ever so tenderly.

    "Your Majestyбн" the chief physician''s voice was shaky, clearing his throat as he mustered the courage to speak. "Your pulse is normal and I don''t see бк"

    "My heart just stopped beating." Abel tapped his chest with his index. "How did I know? I stopped it myself. How did you not catch that?"

    "But your Majesty, there бк"

    "Next." Abel snapped his eyes to the other physician on standby. Once he locked eyes with the first physician, he tapped his temple. "My vassal fried my brain. Check and see if there''s a problem."

    "How can he ask someone if there''s a problem in his head when it''s already obvious?" Dexter murmured, warranting a pinch on his leg from Aries. Thetter red at him while he shrugged, mouthing, <strong>''but it''s true.''</strong>

    Aries shook her head and huffed faintly, ignoring Dexter''s sidements. But her gaze lingered on his solemn side profile for a moment and then sighed. She didn''t have to tell Dexter about her condition because he had already known about it.

    Dexter had been watching Aries in the Maganti Empire from a distance. Therefore, he already knew something was wrong even before she could tell him.

    Aries then shifted her attention back to the next physician, who took the chief''s seat to ask Abel questions as an exercise for Abel''s ''<strong>brain damage.</strong>'' These poor physicians knew that the Marquess and the Emperor had a deal. The details were unclear, but what they knew was that they had to keep this confidential since the patient was the Marques''s sister and not Abel.

    Still, why were they checking Abel''s condition? The answer was rather simple.

    Dexter didn''t trust just anyone who would look after Aries''s condition. He wanted the best, but the problem was that Abel was convinced he was the best. Being vampires wasn''t helping since they were all clueless about how to deal with a sickly human. Hence, they were filtering out people and creating a small team of experts to detect Aries''s exact disease.

    So far, it was still unknown, apparently.

    "Your Majesty, it seemed you didn''t inflict brain damage. Aside from that, do you feel nauseous at timesбн"

    "He''s out." Dexter intervened even before the physician could finish his sentence. "Wrong diagnosis. I''m certain His Majesty had more problems in the head."

    Aries''s face contorted, staring at the physician''s aghast expression. Adding to her dismay was Conan''s reaction.

    "I agree with the Marquess this time." Conan rocked his head in agreement.

    The physician nearly wept as his lips quivered. "My lords, I''m certain your concerns were psychological and not бк"<sub> </sub>

    "Are you saying I''m crazy?" Abel cocked his head to the side, not blinking even once, instilling horror in the physician''s fragile heart. "Go out before I show you how to check someone''s brain with you as myb rat. Next."

    Aries pinched the space between her brows in distress. She remained silent and agreed to this just so these three men would stop fussing. But it had been three days since they were here and there was no progress.

    "Stop," she spoke under her breath, raising her chin, and setting her eyes on the physician who forced his trembling knees to straighten. "Stay with the rest. I''ll have a talk with them."

    The physician bowed slightly, joining the other doctors instead of walking out of the guest chambers. Once the physicians were lined up on the side, Aries glossed her eyes over at them and then at Dexter, Conan, and Abel.

    "Your Majesty, I understand you want to make up with us for sending me to the Maganti Empire, which was on a verge of a revolt. However, my brother and I had been held in here for days and there''s still no progress." Aries raised her chin fearlessly. "I do not mean to offend, but you and my brother are deterring these experts from doing their job. Thus, there is no progress at all for the past three days."

    The physicians'' eyes shone with tears, barely keeping it together, cheering for Aries deep in their hearts and soul. Yet, there was this lingering fear in their hearts that Aries might anger Abel, and instead of getting better, she would hasten her death!

    "Please, I''m begging you." Aries pressed her lips as she drew a deep breath, ncing at Dexter and then at Conan, before settling her eyes on the emperor across from her. "Allow these people to do their jobs."

    "They are not the best if they cannot work under pressure," Abel argued calmly, making Conan nod in agreement.

    "That is right. His Majesty had promised the Marquess to give the best medical attention to you, Lady Aries," Conan backed up the emperor solemnly. "Please do not misunderstand. This isn''t just about you, but also, keeping the peace between the imperial and aristocratic faction."

    "If peace is the matter you needed to keep, you shouldn''t have sent me to anothernd in the first ce," Aries retorted unhesitatingly, making the physician cringe.

    "I cannot disagree with her." Dexter sided with her since it was only natural for him to do so.

    "Conanбн" Abel slowly pushed himself from his reclining posture, sitting up to face the Vandrans. Seeing this, the physicians held their breaths, wondering what would Abel do to them. However, Aries and Dexter kept their chin up and fearlessly looked back at the emperor.

    Others might think the four of them were putting on a show. However, they weren''t. They were simply choosing their words and arguments correctly. The Imperial Pce was open, and the security was almost zero. In other words, they were keeping things in order and rying their concerns whilst making it appear this had something to do with politics.

    "I think I had an ear defect. I didn''t seem to catch what these two are saying." Abel arched a brow and gazed at Aries from head to toe coldly. The side of his lips curled up, eyes glinting with mischief.

    He nted his palms on the coffee table before him, leaning forward over it. "I sincerely wish you will recover, mydy. I really do," he expressed in a quiet voice, nodding reassuringly.

    "Conan, summon more capable physicians in here and let the Vandrans choose just as they pleased." Abel pushed himself away and stood up. He then faced Conan and smirked. "The order is still the same."

    As Abel sauntered off with a nonchnt wave, Aries also stood and curtsied. But just as Abel stood beside her, he cocked his head back. His eyes fell on her and smirked.

    "I always had a soft spot for feistydies." He winked and then resumed his strides. Conan followed behind him to send the emperor off.

    When the door closed behind them, Aries let out a deep exhale. She then nced at the physicians, who looked back at her with worry, and then at Dexter. The marquess was staring at the shut door solemnly, evidently displeased at what Abel had said.

    p ''He''s concocting another scheme again. I can tell,'' Dexter thought, narrowing his eyes suspiciously.</anda>

    Another shallow breath slipped past Aries''s lips. "So, shall we all continue?" she pped, smiling at the physicians, who looked back at her with worry.

    "I am in your care. Therefore, please take care of me."

    "Ye бк yes, mydy."

 Chapter 518 Pregnant?

    "You''re trembling." Aries pointed out while the chief physician checked her pulse.

    "Uh, my apologies, mydy." The head royal physician, who was already an old man with nched hair and mustache, lowered his head.

    "You don''t have to apologize. It should be me who should apologize for putting you all in a difficult position." She kept a gentle demeanor, soothing the physician and the rest''s nervousness. After Abel and Conan left, she also requested Dexter to leave, since his presence and his piercing gaze were enough to intimidate the physicians.

    "No бк not at all, mydy!" the doctor intoned in panic, making her chuckle.

    "That is right, mydy. How dare we ask for your apology?"

    "You''re already in a tight spot yourself and we should''ve done our tasks properly."

    Aries smiled at the physicians'' enthusiasm as they voiced their thoughts.

    "I am d that you will be the one checking my conditions," she expressed. "Those men are gone now. Therefore, you can rest assured and take your time. I really want to get better."

    The physician nodded, their eyes filled with determination. "Do not worry, mydy. We''ll do our best to cure you."

    "That sounds very reassuring." Her lips stretched wider, pleased at their willingness to help.

    With that being said, the physician checked her vitals and asked her a few questions. They also drew blood. As the chief did, his brows furrowed.

    "What is it?" asked Aries, watching the chief raise his head.

    "Mydy, your blood is darker than usual."

    "And what does that mean?"

    "There were several meanings to that, such as low oxygen. However, I cannot tell for sure. Are there any other symptoms you feel?"

    Aries hummed and pondered. "Aside from the asional nauseousness that I feel like fainting, blurring vision, and then a nosebleed. There''s none."

    Her brows creased when the physicians looked at each other before looking back at her.

    "Should we check, mydy?" asked the chief. "In case this isn''t a disease, butбн pregnancy."

    There was a moment of silence in the room as they looked at Aries solemnly, while she looked back at them nkly. In their eyes, her surprise was because she was now widowed, and having a child with a traitor of anothernd would bring shame to the Marquess'' name.

    Little did they know, Aries''s shock was far from their assumptions. The sheer thought of pregnancyбн she never fathomed she would hear it again.

    "No." She shook her head mildly. "That''s impossible."

    "But mydy." The chief physician looked her solemnly in the eye. "We cannot rule out pregnancy. You were a married woman бк"<sub> </sub>

    "That''s impossible," Aries stressed, this time with a firmer voice. "That man and Iбн never shared the bed."

    "What?"

    "Throughout my stay in the Maganti Empire, we never consummate our marriage," she confessed, which was the truth. Aries and Joaquin never did the deed. Even though she was constantly sleeping with Abel, Aries was certain she wasn''t pregnant. Not because she believed she was infertile, but because Abel would know if there was another life growing inside her.

    "I know it is hard to believe it, but it is one of the greatest insults that ce had given me." She raised her chin up, braveness stered across her face. "Please, look further into my condition. I understand why you were considering pregnancy, but I would appreciate it if you widen the range of the disease that can kill me."

    "Ye бк yes, mydy."

    With that being said, everyone worked with Aries as they asked more and more questions. It was almost endless and frustrating. But she was patient, being honest with them as much as she could. Still, at the back of the royal physician''s head, he couldn''t help but hold on to the diagnosis of pregnancy.

    Maybe she wasn''t being honest? And she was simply covering up a scandalous affair? Many theories hovered over the chief''s head until Aries dropped a bomb.

    "Poison." Everyone halted, looking back at her with wide eyes. "I used to consume a paltry amount of poison every day to gain resistance, lest someone poison me."

    "Whatбн"

    "I didn''t think about it until now, but I think that might help you break this case." Aries kept her strong front, glossing her eyes over their faces. "Perhaps instead of gaining immunity, the effect was theplete opposite. I''m not sure, but I hope this information helps."

    "Mydy, this information simply changed everything." The chief nodded. "We''ll continue looking into it more. For now, we will prescribe you medicines for your symptoms."

    "Alright." A smile turned up on her face, watching the physician stand up from his seat.

    Everyone stood in front of her and bowed deeply. "We will monitor your condition from time to time. Please summon us if you feel unwell."

    "I will be staying in the Marquess'' estate for a while now."

    "What?" the chief furrowed his brows as he raised his head, only to see her enchanting smile.

    "My brother and I will leave the Imperial Pce today to avoid rumors from spreading. They will brief you about our arrangements, but for now, you may focus on figuring out my problem to create proper medicine for it."

    "Ye бк yes, mydy."

    Aries nodded in satisfaction. They reminded her of many things to do and not to do, including her diet. Once they nagged her enough, they left her all alone to rest. When she heard the faint click of the door as it closed, a deep sigh slipped past her lips.

    "Pregnancyбн" she whispered, letting out a short, dry chuckle. She looked away, staring at the window behind the futon where Abel perched earlier.

    "How odd," Aries added under her breath, nting her hand on her stomach. "That word. I wonder how Abel would react if he heard that."

    Silence fell on her shoulder before sheughed once more. "He''d probably think it was sillyбн or maybe not. I don''t know. Abel''s childбн I don''t even know whether to feel happy or sad about the thought."

 Chapter 519 You Are Cursed

    Abel didn''t make a fuss when Aries and Dexter requested an audience to announce their departure from the imperial pce. It was almost strange for Aries, but she didn''t dwell on it much.

    "Do you think he wille to the estateter?" asked Aries, staring through the window as the carriage crossed the pce gates.

    "I don''t care." Dexter shrugged, making her look back at him. "I am already being lenient. Do not forget. Right now, you are a Vandran, who came back after that mayhem in thatnd. His Majesty was showing generosity topensate the marquess."

    "Other than that, there''s nothing more or less. People will still talk about you. You know what types of people are there in the high society," he added solemnly.

    Aries arched a brow, gazing at the marquess from across her. "What is the rumor circting in the high society now?" she asked, narrowing her eye suspiciously. "You won''t be like this if there''s nothing that''s bothering you."

    "It''s nothing huge. Focus on getting better."

    "It doesn''t look like it''s nothing huge." She argued calmly. "I don''t think I can rest enough while thinking about what is bothering you."

    Dexter''s jaw tightened before a shallow breath slipped past his lips. "Just silly rumors those who cannot reach you will gossip about."

    "Like?"

    "You are cursed."

    "Cursed?" Ariesughed. "It''s, indeed, silly."

    "I will sort this out."

    "Why?" she arched a brow. "You rarely get riled up with rumors. You know rumors barely have value. People have so much free time in their hands, and gossip is the only thing they can do since the empire is at peace."

    Aries fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly. "Are you bothered that they were dragging you into it? Do the rumors say the marquess''s sister had been sickly all her life, and when she recovered, just a series of misfortune happened?"

    "First, because of her, the tension between the imperial and aristocratic factions augmented. When the emperor abused his power and married her off to anothernd, mayhem befell thend. Now, she''s back here," she continued, setting her eyes back to the window. "Rumors are always so predictable."

    "I hate ?they were talking about you with their filthy mouths."

    "Why?" Aries cast him a look. "You don''t hate it when they gossip about you."

    "Because I don''t care."

    "And so do I." Her answer was quick while her eyes grew sharp. "I don''t care what they say about me, nor does their opinion affect me in the slightest. As you said, they were rumors from those people who will never reach my level. Therefore, we won''t see eye to eye."

    Dexter breathed out sharply, ruffling his hair in frustration. "It''s upsetting."

    "Brother, I''m d you are getting angry in my stead. However, they''re not worth your slightest energy." Aries smiled, moved that Dexter cared about her well-being. "You''ve been tired the past days, helping Sir Conan and Abel, and also making sure that those who approached me won''t be able to harm me."

    She straightened her back and held her chin up. "I''m not crippled. They can say anything about me, I don''t care. After all, we cannot deny facts; I brought mayhem to the empire I was married to. Intentionally."<sub> </sub>

    "So, you want me to drop this matter just like that?"

    "No." The side of her lips stretched from ear to ear until her eyes were squinting. "I''m saying you don''t need to deal with it. I have nothing else to do. So leave it to me."

    Dexter furrowed his brows. "Leave it to you?"

    "Why? Don''t you trust me?" Aries arched a brow and cocked her head to the side.

    "Talk about not caring about other people''s opinions."

    "I don''t, and that will never change. But I care about my brother and the House Vandran''s reputation." Her eyes glinted as they sharpened. "You had built it for years. I won''t allow anyone to use me to sully the pride of the Vandran."

    Dexter opened and closed his mouth, but his voice was lost within him. All he could do was stare at her sly smirk as she looked at the window.

    "What are you nning? Do not forget that you need rest," he reminded when he recovered, watching how the corner of her eyes creased.

    "Don''t worry about it." Aries shed him the brightest smile. "I already foresee thising before we returned. Since we cannot let the public know about my condition and had to keep the facade for the time being, I just thought of an idea to change all that."

    "And what is that?" he arched a brow, leaning back, ears wide open.

    "Diversion." Aries proposed with the brightest smile she could do. "Rumorse and go, brother. Spreading misinformation wasn''t your forte, but it''s not like we''ll spread misinformation."

    "What exactly are you nning whilst hovering between life and death?"

    "To regain my spot in the high society."

    "You never lost it."

    "The second I married Joaquin, I don''t have a ce in thisnd anymore." Aries''s smile lines slowly faded. "I don''t like gatherings or socializing that much, but I find it helpful one way or another. And as such, I would need your help."

    "Dani." Dexter breathed out, but before he could say more, Aries spoke.

    "Not because I have an unknown illness doesn''t mean my world needs to stop. I had to do something else. I feel like my condition will only grow worse if I stay in the room doing nothing." She stressed every word she said to let him know she meant every word she uttered. "I will not allow Joaquin Imperialбн to be a stain in the name I carry."

    Dexter remained silent, staring at those fires in her eyes. After a minute of nothing but silence, he huffed and raised his hand in surrender.

    "You win." He jerked his chin at her. "How can I help?"

    Her lips slowly turned up, raising a brow at him to give him a knowing look. "Lend me some powers... and money."

 Chapter 520 Ariess Ambition

    Aries had a thought when she stepped foot in the House Vandran after the controversy she was involved in the Maganti Empire. She had been in an environment of aristocrats since the day she was born.

    She was no stranger to rumors. Hence, she had expected a worse oue once she returned to the Haimirich Empire.

    The least of her concern was the opinions in the royal court. Dexter and Abel could handle that, and with Conan''s involvement, he would eventually find a way to settle things as he had always done.

    However, although those three usually settled the matters in the royal court, they gave little to no attention to the rumors in the high society. Not that Aries purely cared about the nobles'' opinion, but she had to do something about it.

    That was why she nned to be the richestdy in the empire.

    "My lord, it is I, Gustav," Gustav announced, after knocking on the marquess''s study. "Lady Danie is here after your summon."

    "Bring her in."

    Aries nced at Gustav, the head butler of the House Vandran, and smiled. Thetter offered a polite smile, opening the door for her.

    "Greetings, brother." Aries curtsied as soon as she stepped in. When she straightened her back, Dexter already pushed himself up from behind the desk.

    "Take a seat," said Dexter as he picked up a few documents.

    "I''ll prepare you some tea, mydy." Gustav motioned his arm towards the set of chairs in front of the marquess''s desk.

    "Thank you, Gustav." Aries watched Gustav leave them alone, before marching towards the futon. "You asked for me?"

    "Mhm." Dexter raised a few documents and plopped down on the armchair. He then handed it to her casually. "Your request."

    Her brow rose as she reached for the papers slowly. "That quick? It''s only been four days since I told you about it."

    "It''s been four days." He arched a brow, spreading his arms over the armrest whilst resting his leg over the other. "It took longer than usual because everyone was rather busy."

    "Hahaбн don''t gloatбн much." She rolled her eyes, reading the documents Dexter handed over. The corner of her lips stretched from ear to ear, seeing that everything was legally approved by the emperor.

    It had been four days since they returned to the House Vandran from the imperial pce. For the past four days, the royal physicians had secretly visited her once a day. Dexter had been busy handling the march''s affairs, and Abel hadn''t visited. Or at least, not when she was awake, leaving just traces of flowers and letters on her bedside.

    Their lives had slowly returned to normal if she put it, and everyone had slowly adjusted to their setups.

    "Didn''t you say you want to make history and be the richestdy in the empire?" Dexter broke the silence that was descending in the room. "Why are you being discreet about running a business?"

    Aries eyed him in dismay. "How can you be so clueless about this, hmm?"

    "What do you mean?" he cocked his head to the side.

    "Brother, I hope you are joking." Ariesughed, only to realize Dexter was clueless. She leaned forward, resting her arm over the armrest. "You''re serious?"

    "Do you think I''m jesting?"

    "I mean, you should know since you are running many sessful businesses!"<sub> </sub>

    "Exactly my point, Dani. I''m running many sessful businesses that helped the empire''s economy. It is what sat me as the leader of the aristocratic faction," Dexter reminded her, as a matter of fact. "If you''re going to open up a shop and use my connections, your dresses will be sold out in a single day."

    Ariesughed dryly, shaking her head and looking at him in disbelief. "Brother, how did you start the business?"

    "I just did. I started small, selling anything in the market. I know how to save and invest, and learned how to expand it without hurting the capital chain along the way." He shrugged.

    "Wowбн" Aries pped slowly, amazed at how Dexter made it sound so easy.

    "So, I don''t understand why you are unwilling to use your brother''s influence. You are privileged enough. Use it."

    Aries smacked her lips and leaned back. "Then that''s not making history, is it?"

    "No. It''s called making thingsplicated."

    "A widow, a cursed beauty, a canary in an aviary." Aries drew a breath as she raised her brows at him. "Those were the only few titles they call me."

    "Dani."

    "Who do you think will buy from someone who people think is cursed?" Aries arched a brow, stopping him before he could say more. "If I use you, I won''t have a problem. However, that will also mean my consumer will only procure what I can offer because I''m your sister. I do not want that."

    Dexter chuckled with his lips closed. "You don''t want to live in my shadow? Is that what you mean?"

    "Will you get angry if I say I want those people to think I am just as capable as my brother?"

    "No. Not at all." He shook his head, lips stretching from ear to ear. "I already guessed that''s the reason, knowing howpetitive you are. But I still want to hear it from you."

    "Tsk." Aries looked at him before their waves ofughter broke.

    "But Dani." Dexter cleared his throat once he recovered fromughing. "Running a business isn''t as easy as others think. I don''t think you underestimate that, but we had a deal. You need to focus on your health."

    "I know." Aries shed him a bright smile, making Dexter tilt his head to the side.

    "What?" he asked when she kept her mouth shut for over ten seconds. "Stop with the suspense now. Or are you stalling to think of another way to make me agree you can manage it all alone? If that is the case, I will revoke these permits at once."

    "Mhm." Her lips stretched even broader while shaking her head. "I already have someone who will manage it."

    "Someone?"

    "Mhm. Someone I can trust deeply." Aries''s eyes shone with excitement, watching Dexter narrow his eyes in intrigue. It didn''t take long when his mouth fell open as he rocked his head.

    "You meanбн?"

    "Yes. Violet."

 Chapter 521 [Bonus Chapter]Not Good Models

    Aries stood in front of an establishment situated in the heart of the shopping center of the capital. Her lips were stretched from ear to ear, arms folded under her chest. The workers had finished renovating the ce and were now busy moving in things for her boutique.

    "Lady Ari бк" Violet, who was standing beside Aries, cleared her throat. "Mister Ariel."

    Aries''s lips stretched wider, twisting her upper body to face Violet. "Yes, mydy?"

    "Uhmбн" Violet smiled awkwardly, gazing at Aries from head to toe. Thetter was in men''s clothes with a wig to cover her green hair. If she didn''t know better, Violet would mistake him for a charismatic young Lord with that bright smile Aries was wearing.

    "This isбн?"

    "The shop you''ll be managing," Aries smirked, setting her eyes back to the establishment. "I got a loan from my brother to start a small business."

    "Small?" Violet nearly cringed as she gazed around.

    This street was definitely one of the best ces to shop in the Imperial capital. It was a great location from her point of view. When Violet set her eyes on the establishment before them, she caught a few pieces of furniture the workers were carrying inside.

    Violet was royalty all her life. Although the princess was humble in nature, she had a good eye for pieces that had value. The shop Aries wanted to run wasn''t a simple boutique, and that was for sure.

    "Mhm. A small shop." Aries rocked her head, arching a brow as she cast Violet a side-eye. "Violet, how can you agree to my request to manage my business without knowing every little detail? Aren''t you afraid it''s an illegal one?"

    "Lady Ari бк I mean, Mister Ariel, I trust you." Violet smiled warmly, almost making Aries shake her head in disbelief.

    How could this woman be this trustful? No wonder Roman sees Violet as precious as a diamond. Violet was precious, almost like a saintess.

    "Goodnessбн I feel so manly beside you," Aries blurted out in a joking manner, making Violet blush in embarrassment. Seeing that Violet was a little flustered, Aries bumped her shoulder against her.

    "Haha. Don''t be surprised. I know I don''t stand a chance against Rome," she teased, causing Violet''s face to redden even more. "Will you look at that? You''re so fun to tease."

    "Mydyбн" Violet pouted. "This is unfair."

    "How is that unfair? I mean, you fancy that man, even though he doesn''t have enough courage to marry you. Ahбн I''m getting frustrated whenever I think about it. Abel and I did our best to help him, but that бк tsk. Never mind." Aries huffed, stopping herself from ranting about Roman''s politeness towards Violet it was bing rude.

    "The seventh prince had his reasons." Violet defended him, tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear. "He is stubborn, but it''s not like we''re in a rush. I also want to take things slow with us since there were children involved."

    A subtle smile dominated Violet''s face as her eyes beamed with affection. "Although my sons were fond of him, it is best to build the foundation of our rtionship before marriage."

    "Myбн" Aries observed Violet and smiled subtly. "Good for you then. Forgive us if we''re being nosy."<sub> </sub>

    "Not at all." Violet raised her head and shed Aries an even bigger smile. "I learned a lot from you and His Majesty. If not for you бк"

    "Violet." Aries walked in the same spot and faced Violet. She held thetter''s arms, looking at her dead in the eye. "Don''t see me and Abel as your models. Trust me. Roman will kill us if he figured we corrupted you."

    Violetughed. "Mydy, your rtionship with His Majesty isn''t as bad as you think it was."

    "I''m not saying it is bad." Aries shook her head. "What I''m saying is, Abel scares the hell out of me."

    "Pardon?"

    "I always tread on thin ice and burn every brain cell when I''m with him," Aries confessed under her breath as if she was in deep distress. "I had to stay on my toes at all times or else I''ll fall for his tricks. We''re not good models. Trust me on this one."

    "Mydy, are you alright?"

    "I amбн fortunately." Aries carefully released Violet''s shoulder as she dramatically faced the establishment.

    "Thanks to my survival instinct, my arse is still safe," she mumbled, only for her ears to hear.

    Meanwhile, Violet observed Aries worriedly. At first, she thought what Aries said was some sort of sign of being maltreated. But the more she observed Aries''s demeanor, Violet was certain she misunderstood Aries''s ims.

    ''That isn''t the face of someone who is afraid of her spouse.'' Violet smiled. ''Well, I heard His Majesty was quite an unpredictable man.''

    Violet didn''t dwell on Aries''s warning anymore as she gazed at the establishment before them. Her lips stretched broader, forgetting what Aries said regarding not taking her rtionship with Abel as a good model. But for Violet, she wanted to focus on the good thing between Aries and Abel.

    It was Aries who misunderstood Violet. Because what Violet meant was that Aries and Abel loved each other, and had a deeper understanding and respect for each other. Abel was there in the Maganti Empire, even when Aries was married to another man. If Abel was just as selfish as Violet had heard, he wouldn''t even agree to send Aries to settle scores for those who tormented her.

    ''I''m d Lady Aries found a man who epted her for who she was regardless of the past.'' Violet''s lips curled up, relieved that Aries got the life she truly deserved. It may not be the same as when she was the princess in thend of Rikhill, but her new family wasn''t so bad.

    The guilt of Carlos'' involvement in Aries''s cruel past was still engraved deep in Violet''s heart. That was why Violet wished for Aries''s happiness just as intensely as her desire to give her children a peaceful life.

    "Right!" Violet was snapped out of her thoughts when Aries pped. "Let''s head inside. I''ll tell you the details there."

    "Yes, Mister Ariel." Violet nodded, following Aries inside the boutique to get down to business.

 Chapter 522 [Bonus Chapter]Girl Power

    "A luxury boutiqueбн?" Violet looked at Aries, wide-eyed.

    Everyone was cing the furniture and packages inside while Aries and Violet were standing in the middle, talking about Aries''s ns. Violet wanted to help Aries in everything she could, so she agreed to Aries''s request even though she didn''t know the details.

    "Yes." Aries rocked her head and crossed her arms. She looked around at the fancy interior, which was renovated thanks to Dexter''s help. "There were already tons of boutiques that were established for years. Some decades. That''s why I need to be different."

    "But Lady Aries, shouldn''t you lower the price for starters?"

    Aries shook her head and cast Violet a knowing look. "Violet, nobles hate cheap things. You know that already."

    "Every noble in every kingdom was the same. They hate discounts and they liked to show off their wealth at every banquet and tea party," she continued in a knowing tone. "And that is what I am aiming for."

    Violet raised her brows and tilted her head to the side. Although she was royalty, Violet wasn''t truly the person who enjoyed splurging money on dresses and essories. She just had to since she was a part of the royal family because, for her, it was better to use the money to help the poor.

    "My goal will only be sessful with your help, though." Aries faced the baffled Violet. "Since my brother won''t allow me to exhaust myself, I need someone whom I can trust to run the business."

    "Lady Aries, I will do everything to help you," Violet replied enthusiastically. "I don''t have experience in handling a business, but I will do my best to make it."

    "I really appreciate it, Violet." Aries smiled at her. "I will help with the designs and the paperwork. What I need from you the most is something else."

    "Something else?" Violet mumbled, watching Aries look away as thetter smirked. "What is it, mydy?"

    ? "Your eyes."

    The lines between Violet''s forehead deepened. "My eyes?"

    "Yes. Your eyes." Aries rocked her head. "It is true that my n is to sell everything at the highest price that will filter out lower nobles. However, we need something more to make this boutique special."

    "Wealth will not matter. All designs that will be sold here will only have one or three pieces at max. Abel had been very picky in picking the dresses I wear; he could just say he likes it better when I wear none," she continued, mumbling thest part of her sentence to herself because Abel was the reason Aries learned the skill of designing dresses.

    Aries spent a lot of time with the seamstress and picked up a thing or two from them. Hence, she would sometimes design dresses whenever she was bored. She used a few copied designs in Maganti from the seamstress, but some of the pieces Aries made were designed by her.

    In other words, Aries had already gotten feedback from the dresses she designed herself. Hence, she was confident thedies would die to get a piece. Taking advantage of the nobles'' egos by limiting the supply despite the huge demand would make her brand one of the badges of wealth ady would carry.

    Violet''s mouth fell open as she listened to Aries''s exnation about her ns for her business.

    "You mean to sayбн?" she trailed off, raising her brows in intrigue.<sub> </sub>

    Aries looked back at her and smirked. "You will be the judge who deserves to wear my babies. People will think it''s a ripoff, but those who had ss and a good eye will see its value. Their egos to get something no one else can will force them to buy one."

    "However, I do not want any rotten piece of garbage wearing our pieces that might stain our brand," Aries added. "You need to have a good eye on people."

    Violet looked at Aries in awe. But when she heard having a good eye, her smile lines faded.

    "Lady Aries," Violet called worriedly. "Iбн don''t think I have a good eye to discern if they were good or bad."

    "Violet, I''m not saying they should be good or bad." Aries chuckled. "I''m just saying you need to have a good eye on those who will surely not sully my name."

    "How do I know that?"

    "Trust your heart." Aries tapped Violet''s chest with her finger. "If you don''t trust your eyes, trust your heart. After all, this is also your business."

    "Pardon?"

    "You''ll get a percentage of our sales. I might be the owner and the designer, but you will be on the field and the face of this boutique." Aries cocked her head, a bit surprised Violet seemed to have not thought of that too. "Did you think I''ll just pay you a normal sry?"

    "Mydy." Violet breathed out, wide-eyed. "How can I бк I mean, I am already content that I will have a job бк"

    "You have children to raise, Violet." Aries cut her off, knowing what Violet would say. "I know you want nothing but to give them a peaceful life. However, we have to admit money is a big factor in life. Having a peaceful life isn''t badбн but it won''t be peaceful if you struggle financially."

    "Moreover, the Haimirich Empire is a great ce for equality. Although the difference in status was still inevitable, the opportunities for everyone are the same." Aries nted her hand over Violet''s shoulder. "Don''t just give them a peaceful life, but allow them to live in a home where they can dream big."

    "I''m not saying you can''t do that, but money is still essential in many things, Violet. Trust me," she added, nodding at Violet reassuringly.

    "Mydyбн" Violet bit her trembling lips, once again indebted to Aries. "I don''t know how to repay your help бк"

    "I''m not helping you, Violet." Aries smiled. "I am investing."

    Aries drew a breath as she retrieved her hand from Violet''s shoulder. "Investing isn''t just to goods, but also to people." Her lips stretched from ear to ear. "I need to take care of my people just the way they take care of me."

    "Mydyбн" Violet''s eyes softened before she beckoned a deep bow. "I will do my best!"

    "You should. This is ours." Aries chuckled as she looked around once more, pleased and excited at this new chapter in her and Violet''s life.

 Chapter 523 [Bonus Chapter]Gut Feeling

    "This way, please."

    Aries smiled, watching Violet help the workers ce the furniture. She looked around, shoving her hand inside her suit. Taking out the pocket watch, the side of her lips curled up.

    "Mydy, I''ll step out for a while," Aries called to get Violet''s attention. Seeing that thetter hurriedly dropped the cloth she was holding, Aries raised a hand. "You don''t have to send me off."

    <o>,m "But myd бк my lord."</o>

    "It''s fine. Climaco is outside and will escort you back to the estate." Aries smiled, waving. "I''ll see you around."

    Violet perked up, but Aries already sauntered off without looking back. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, but recalling how Aries looked like a young man, she felt slightly at ease. This world was safer for men, after all.

    "Lady Aries is truly charming in her outfit," she mumbled, smiling. "And very charismatic too. I never thought she could pull off such a disguise wlessly."

    "Mydy, where shall we ce this painting?"

    Violet snapped her eyes and turned in the worker''s direction as they held a painting. "Please, ced it here," she instructed, approaching them and slowly putting the things regarding Aries''s disguise at the back of her head.

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> Aries stepped out of the establishment with a huge smile on her face. She looked back, chuckling.

    "She can be a worrywart sometimes," she mumbled, recalling Violet''s worried face as if she was a child about to get abandoned. "I''ll just roam the capital, that''s all."

    Aries drew a breath and exhaled it sharply, looking from her left to right. "It''s a nice weather to shop."

    Her lips stretched from ear to ear, sping her pocket watch, and walked away from the establishment. Since Dexter permitted Aries to check the shop after pestering him, Aries had to squeeze everything in a day.

    It had been a while since she went out all on her own. Hence, her mood consistently rose. Aries roamed the capital, trying out street foods, watching people y arcades, and just a seemingly natural stroll.

    "Ahбн" Aries clicked her tongue, holding a chicken skewer while walking down the street. "It''s pleasant weather and a good day. Ever since I started nning this boutique, I haven''t been feeling unwell, and the physicians said I''m slightly improving."

    She stopped in the middle of the street, closing her eyes as she breathed out. Aries then looked back, catching a figure hiding at the end of the street she came from.

    "If they''re going to spy on meбн can''t they do it in a more discreet way?" she grumbled through her gritted teeth, suspecting the people who had been following her since stepping out of the establishment were either Dexter''s people or Abel''s.

    "Goodness. They''re ruining my mood." Aries snapped her tongue in irritation once more, shaking her head. "Never mind. I''ll just pretend I didn''t notice."

    Aries huffed, facing ahead. She shook her head once more, biting the meat on the stick.

    "Ahhбн they''re so annoying," she muttered, but instead of confronting them or purposely losing them, she simply ignored them.<sub> </sub>

    She couldn''t be selfish; this was for whoever sent these people''s peace of mind. Also, although it was annoying, it was also reassuring to know that if any mishap happened, someone woulde to her rescue.

    "It''s not like I only went out to enjoy strolling. That''s just the bonus." Aries stopped, facing another boutique''s disy. "Ohбн this looks very nice. But why was the style of all boutique disy has almost the exact design? Aren''t they tired of this?"

    Aries peered at the dress up and down. "This dress looks oddly familiar, though. I wonder where I had seen it?"

    Aries studied the piece for another minute before walking away to the boutique just two blocks away. By now, whoever was following her would know that Aries wasn''t simply strolling with all the destinations she went to.

    Aries was surveying the current market. Although her ns were perfect, she still had to study the market not just by the books, but also in the field. So far, Aries was disappointed at the trend.

    "I had ordered a few dresses that were on the current trend, but I didn''t think all other shops were selling almost exactly the same designs," Aries mumbled to herself, rubbing her chin, treading carefully on the pavement. "It''s not that they were impressive."

    If anything, what she learned was that the dress was a bit easier to copy.

    "If this had been going on in the industry, thenбн" Aries halted, eyes glinting sharply. "... I need to make sure people wouldn''t dare copy mine."

    The side of her lips curled up wickedly. "Should I ask Abelбн ah, no, no. That''s an abuse of power. Forget it." Aries shook her head, pping her lips mildly for speaking a terrible suggestion.

    "But still." She then pivoted on her heel to face a boutique, disying almost the same design as the rest. Staring at the dress intensely, Aries narrowed her eyes. The dress was only in a different color, but anyone could tell they were almost uniform with a few tweaks here and there.

    "Wait a minute." Aries arched a brow, folding her arms. Not long after, a smirk appeared on her face. "Any skilled seamstress can copy any dress if they want to. It''s not about stopping them from copying my dresses, but giving it the authority to bring shame or power to someone."

    As Aries''s idea slowly concluded in her pretty brain of hers, her lips stretched wider until her eyes were squinting.

    "I bet Abel would want to open my skull just to see how brilliant his wife''s brain was." Aries chuckled happily, walking away in high spirit as if that concluded that her ns for today were fruitful. But just as Aries made a turn, her steps halted.

    She raised her gaze, seeing quite a few people walking. Her eyes, however, lingered on the men walking in her direction.

    <strong>[ If you ever meet her in the street, run as fast as you can. ]</strong>

    Her brows furrowed, a bit confused why Abel''s warning suddenly rang in her head. She kept her eyes on the three men walking and talking happily.

    "Well." Aries shrugged, resuming her strides. However, just as she walked past the three men chatting loudly, her heart thudded as there was a woman walking behind the three men.

    She looked back. The three men had already turned into the street where she came from.

    "Marбн se?"

 Chapter 524 [Bonus Chapter] Fortune Telling

    "Marse?"

    Aries knitted her brows, and without thinking twice, she walked back to the end of the street. As soon as she turned her head, a shallow breath slipped past her lips.

    "Was it just my imagination?" she wondered, staring at the retreating three men''s back. Aries clutched her chest, keeping her eyes on the three men''s back.

    Aries wanted to tell herself it was just because it was her first time strolling alone. Hence, she was overthinking. After all, she never knew what Abel''s sister looked like. Although her gut feeling told her something, she couldn''t point out what it was exactly.

    "Nevermind," she murmured, turning on her heel to turn around. However, just as Aries did, she jumped back on instinct to avoid bumping into the figure standing behind her.

    Her eyes shook, gazing up at the person in front of her. She looked at the person from head to toe. Thetter was wearing a worn-out cloak with a hood that was covering her upper face. Despite that, based on the person''s jaw and lips, Aries was certain she was a woman.

    But that wasn''t what caught Aries''s attention, but the stranger''s stature. Under the cloak, the stranger might look lean, but she was rather tall -- an inch taller than Aries despite Aries''s wearing insoles.

    "What...?" Aries trailed off, taking a step back on instinct. She couldn''t see the stranger''s eyes, but she was certain thetter was sizing her up.

    "You... are so handsome." The stranger''s voice was warm and inviting, making Aries''s throat bob.

    "Pa aАб░ pardon?"

    The side of the stranger''s natural red lips curled up. She bent over, causing Aries to slightly bend backward.

    "You smell good too," the stranger praised with her natural seductive voice. "I like you."

    "What?" Aries took two steps back in difort. "Ma''am, what are you spewing?"

    "Literally. No double meaning."

    Aries furrowed her brows, gazing at the stranger in disbelief. Her heart was slightly racing, but it was not like her gut feeling told her to run away. Yet, this uneasiness in her heart felt distinct.

    "If that is all you want to say, I''m --" Aries abruptly stopped when the stranger took a step. She took a step back, but when the stranger took another step to shorten the gap between them, Aries somehow fought from taking another step back. She raised her chin when the stranger bent over.

    The hood still covered half of the stranger''s face, but Aries noticed her bob her face to examine her. The space between Aries''s brows deepened, frowning, showing no sign of fear as a defense mechanism.

    Was she being harassed because she was a pretty man?

    "Born under a blue star... a wretched fate for a man so young and beautiful." The stranger smirked. "You''re lucky I like handsome men regardless of the omen they carried, and I''m in the mood to read your divine providence."

    "What?" Aries furrowed her brows.

    "In exactly two weeks from this day," the stranger continued under her breath. "Someone dear to you will die."

    Aries''s breath hitched as her eyes shook, staring at the stranger''s curled lips. Her heart thudded when thetter''s smirk stretched wickedly.

    "You better keep an eye on your loved ones... or they''ll disappear like... poof... magic."

    "Miss." Aries frowned, trying to keep her cool despite the ominous remark from the stranger. "I don''t know what you are talking about, but if you don''t need anything from me, don''t bother me."<sub> </sub>

    Aries scoffed and shook her head, side-stepping to walk past the stranger. As soon as she bumped her shoulder against the stranger, she stopped.

    "No one asked you to read my fortune. I don''t believe in such things; you are not the God to know what the future holds." Aries balled her hands into a tight fist, her expression solemn. "I''ll pretend this encounter didn''t happen at all."

    With that being said, Aries sauntered off without looking back. Meanwhile, the stranger slowly looked back in Aries''s direction. The side of the stranger''s lips curled up in amusement.

    "They say... those who are born pretty will have a tragic fate. No wonder I am inconsble." A short chuckle slipped past the stranger''s lips, marching away in the direction opposite Aries''s.

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ Imperial Pce ]</strong>

    The ministers departed the royal court after its morning session. As soon as Dexter stepped out, a knight approached him and whispered in his ears. Just like the Marquess, a knight approached Conan, whispering reports in Conan''s ears.

    Abel, who was supposed to have left using his personal entrance, had stepped out of the main entrance. He darted his eyes between Conan and Dexter, watching them listen to the reports of their knights.

    "Make sure shees home safe and sound," said Dexter under his breath, casting the knight a solemn look.

    "Good work. Report back to me when something unusual happened." Conan tapped the knight''s shoulder after hearing the short report from him.

    Abel folded his arms under his chest. "You nted shadows to follow my darling potato?"

    Conan flinched when Abel''s voice came from behind them. Meanwhile, Dexter ignored him as he gave out his order to the knight in charge of Aries''s safety. Thetter then looked back at Abel, snorting upon seeing the misced innocence in Abel''s eyes.

    "I''m simply making sure of her safety," Dexter exined, keeping it short and simple.

    "Your Majesty, you didn''t put anyone to follow Lady Aries." Conan pouted, pushing the me on Abel since the emperor was rather rxed on everything. "So I have no choice. I don''t trust the marquess''s knighthood brigade."

    "Why would I do that?" Abel cocked his head to the side. "To inflict her wrath? No, thanks. I trust her enough to give her some space."

    Conan and Dexter scrunched their nose up in disdain, looking back at Abel from head to toe.

    "Trust her enough... don''t make meugh. You simply know we''ll do this, hence, taking advantage of that to save yourself lest she figured she was being followed." Dexter snorted.<strong> ''What a hypocrite.''</strong>

    Abel''s lips stretched from ear to ear until his eyes were squinting. But instead of pressing Dexter''s nerve by acting dumb, Abel faced Conan.

    "Withdraw all the knights that were following her and send someone else instead." Conan''s brows elevated upon Abel''s orders. "And then deploy all the knights for a search."

    Hearing this, Dexter lowered his head. "I''ll be on my way, Your Majesty," he excused himself, knowing he shouldn''t be hearing this. But s, just as Dexter turned to leave, he halted at Abel''s next words.

    "Find the person who entered the imperial capital before the next coven. I might die if you don''t."

    Dexter looked back, wide-eyed, just like Conan''s. They observed Abel''s solemn expression, and that second, they figured the emperor wasn''t joking.

 Chapter 525 [Bonus Chapter]Another Knight For Protection

    "How''s the boutiqueing to?"

    Aries paused in slicing the meat on the te and raised her eyes at Dexter. The marquess sat at the end of the table while Aries was on his right.

    "The preparations are almostplete. It can start its operation in a few days," said Aries with confidence. "Violet had been hands on. Hence, things are running smoothly."

    Dexter rocked his head in understanding. "Are you sure you don''t need any of my help anymore?"

    "You already let me borrow money to start a business and helped me with the proper documents." Aries smiled. "I''m on the high road to sess. Or don''t you trust me?"

    "This is not about trust, because obviously, the moment I shelled out money already meant I trust you." Dexter rested his arms against the edge of the table. "I''m simply worried because of the fiercepetition, but if you say you can do it, I believe you can."

    Her lips stretched broader. "Don''t worry. Thanks to you, I was able to stroll the capital."

    "Anything interesting?"

    "Aside from the fact everyone just follows the trend. Nothing special."

    "Everydy usually wears the same design, and it usually varies in how they adorn them," Dexter agreed as he had attended a few banquets, and based on his observation, mostdies were wearing almost the same design. "It was odd, though."

    "I know, right?" Aries chuckled. "Usually, thosedies in the high society disliked it when they were wearing the same clothes as others. However, for some odd reasons, they do not mind now. Most boutiques had the same disy, and the only difference was the color."

    "Meaning, the demand is high, and no one cared whoever could supply it."

    "I wonder whyбн" Aries propped her elbow against the table while holding the fork, resting her chin on her knuckles. "The trend isn''t that remarkable. It looked a bit shy, but somehow, thedies are going crazy for it."

    Dexter arched a brow and studied Aries''s puzzled expression. "Everything in this empire is usually unpredictable."

    "For no reason?" she arched a brow.

    "There should be a reason," he answered. "Should I look it up for you?"

    Aries chuckled with her lips closed while shaking her head. "No need. I''m simply curious, but it doesn''t really matter."

    "Is that so?"

    "Mhm. After all, I already have a n in mind." Her lips stretched from ear to ear. "Do you want me to tell you?"

    "No need. It looks like you''re about to tell me a deep secret. I don''t want to be one of the suspects if this information was leaked."

    "Pfft бк" Aries burst out inughter. "You''re too much. Even if it was leaked, I will never suspect you."

    Dexter let out a shallowugh and shook his head, resuming in his meal. For a moment, Aries and Dexter enjoyed their breakfast before his voice pierced the air once again.

    "By the way." Dexter wiped the side of his lips with a cloth. "About the fifth princeбн"

    Aries slowly paused, raising her head back at him. "What about him?"

    "I received a report that he died." Dexter looked at her straight in the eye. "I had confirmed this with the new emperor, although it was a bit strange."

    "What do you mean?"

    "From Ismael''s letter, it sounded like he wasn''t sure himself. He said the corpse was burned, and he was barely recognizable. The only thing that confirmed it was the fifth prince was because of the ring on his finger."<sub> </sub>

    "I seeбн" Aries rocked her head in understanding, pressing her lips into a thin line.

    "Don''t worry. I sent people to look more into it," he reassured with a slight smile. "He won''t be able to approach you."

    "Well, I hope."

    "Dani." Dexter stretched his arm over the table to hold her hand. "I won''t let him harm you anymore."

    "It''s not that." Aries breathed out. "It''s justбн" she raised her gaze at Dexter and sighed. "Perhaps I am merely overthinking."

    "He''s crazy. Don''t mind whatever he told you back then."

    "Should I just ignore it?" she frowned. "He knew about Maleficent and the existence of vampires."

    "Even if he knew about it, what can he do? He would die the second he stepped foot in the empire."

    Aries pursed her lips before nodding. "Well, I guess you''re right. There''s no need to dwell on such a person. It''s not like he had any resources to pull off any scheme."

    "He can''t do anything without his brother''s help." Dexter squeezed Aries''s hand mildly before letting her go. "The security in this residence is tighter than the imperial pce. However, you shouldn''t underestimate thex security of the imperial pce. It''s easy to enter that ce, but people can''t easily leave it... alive."

    "That sounds very reassuring." Aries forced a subtle smile. "I trust you."

    "Good." He smiled back. "Speaking of which, His Majesty had sent a person to spy on you."

    "What?"

    "He said for your protection."

    "I already have Climaco. Also, didn''t you and Abel already nt people in my shadows?"

    "It wasn''t His Majesty, but Sir Conan," Dexter argued, despite knowing he shouldn''t care even if Aries misunderstood. "His Majesty didn''t send anyone to follow you, knowing I would already do that for safety precaution."

    "Really?" Her brows rose as her expression brightened. "Brother, that''s a surprise. I didn''t know you will rify this, knowing how you loathed my husband."

    Dexter resisted rolling his eyes. "I only agreed because I acknowledge the knight''s strength and clever mind."

    "What about Climaco?"

    "Your personal knight still has a long way to go. He can learn a lot from this person. I trust your knight''s loyalty. He might have admirable swordsmanship, but when you are against a vampire, that level isn''t enough."

    Her forehead creased, grasping what he meant by all that. "So, who is this person?"

    <strong>Knock knockбн</strong>

    "My lord, it is I, Gustav. The knight the imperial pce sent for Lady Danie had arrived." Aries gazed at the door with interest, hearing Dexter reply, "bring him in."

    Aries held her breath, watching the door creak open. As soon as it did, her eyes caught Gustav''s figureing in. When her gaze fell on the person following Gustav, she cocked her head to the side.

    "Roman?" she called, a little taken aback to see Roman.

 Chapter 526 [Bonus Chapter]Preparation

    Aries smiled awkwardly at the person across the table. After her meal with Dexter, introducing her to Roman for formality, Aries had to meet Violet in the garden of the House Vandran for the final preparation before they open their business. However, Violet seemed a little ufortable and curious, seeing that Roman was standing just right outside the perg.

    "I didn''t know until this morning." Aries broke the silence with a sigh. "Apparently, His Majesty had sent someone he could trust instead of multiple people following me."

    "Ahhбн" Violetughed awkwardly.

    "Do you feel ufortable?"

    "What? No, not at all, mydy." Violet shook her head profusely while waving both her hands. "I''m just a littleбн surprised. I didn''t see iting."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. "I understand. Many things had urred, and the results of them can be quite surprising since no one expected it would turn out this way."

    "Yes, mydy." Violet''s smile grew gentler. "It still feels surreal how I am now here. All my life, I never thought I would ever live somewhere else. Actually, back then, I believed the only way for me to leave that ce was if Carlos died. Although it was still the cause that opened the opportunity for me and my children to flee, I already expected the worst."

    Her eyes grew soft as she smiled at Aries. "I am forever indebted to you, mydy."

    "Please, Violet. You are not indebted to me. I simply repaid your kindness, but if you truly want to repay me, take care of your children. Protect them at all costs, even if you must sully your hands." Aries peeled her eyes away from Violet to the flowerbeds nearby.

    Hearing the encouraging words from Aries, Violet observed her side profile. Aries had this look in her eyes, which the maternal part of Violet could understand. However, Violet said nothing, keeping her thoughts to herself. After all, it wasn''t a surprise if Aries got pregnant back in the Maganti Empire, only to meet a tragic fate.

    Violet didn''t want to open that wound because she was also a mother. Losing a childбн Violet couldn''t even imagine the pain of losing a child. Hence, her respect and admiration for Aries tripled.

    "Mydy. The boutique can operate at your behest. Shouldn''t you hold a banquet or a tea party, invitingdies from the high society to promote your business?" asked Violet to divert their attention. "If you do that, then it would give us a good start."

    Aries slowly set her eyes back at Violet and smirked. "No need. I want to keep my involvement with it a secret for now."

    "Pardon?"

    "You''ve been helping out to finish the final touches in the shop. So, I bet you had heard a thing or two while eating out." Aries chuckled, seeing Violet bit her lips as she lowered her eyes. "It''s alright, Violet."

    "Is the nder that is circting in the high society the reason you want to keep your involvement a secret?" Violet inquired worriedly. She had heard a few of the rumors unintentionally while eating in the restaurants. There were always those big mouths everywhere thus, anyone would get a wind of Aries''s current sullied reputation.

    "Allow them to talk to their heart''s content." Aries picked up the teacup in front of her. "People have always something to say whatever we do. Their opinions about me don''t matter. Actually, it is best to filter out buffoons who can wear my pieces."

    "But mydy. Without connections, the shop will struggle to gain clients, especially with the condition of your business." Violet pointed out. "I''m also worried that if we met with difficult clients, they might nder the business. Once the word got out, the business mightбн faced with a crisis."

    Aries smiled subtly, seeing the sincere worry in Violet''s eyes.

    "I am not trying to jinx your business, mydy. I''m just considering the worst-case scenario," Violet added. She had pledged to fulfill her duties. Therefore, her worries kept increasing since Aries still keep a few details of her ns to give Violet some time to process them.<sub> </sub>

    "As expected, you never disappoint Violet." Aries ced down the cup of tea, smiling. "Do you know the reason I hadn''t given you the entire detail of my ns?"

    Violet furrowed her brows in confusion.

    "It''s not that I don''t trust you, I do. However, I need to see how you will run it. After all, being on the field is one tough job. I need someone who cares enough to worry about it and make decisions at a critical moment," Aries exined, keeping it short and simple. "As for your concerns, I already made a move."

    Violet''s already furrowed brows creased even more. "Mydy, whatбн do you mean by that?"

    "I sent a few pieces to some nobledies I knew in the past under the brand''s name as a gift," exined Aries with a triumphant smirk.

    "A gift?" Violet gasped. "But mydy, if you sent a few pieces for free, is the added cost necessary? After all, each piece is worth a fortune."

    "Necessary?" Aries chuckled with her lips closed, a bit amused at how Violet could be a little naive in this area. She couldn''t me Violet, though. The princess had always used her heart to help others, not to exploit.

    "It''s an investment, Violet," Aries exined patiently, to impart some business wisdom to Violet. "Before I was sent to the Maganti Empire, I had met a few influential noblewomen. Using their preferences, I designed each piece to their liking."

    "But even so, what if they throw it away? Or ignore it, since they had other more dresses to spare."

    "They won''t dare do that. Trust me." A glint flickered across Aries''s eyes as the side of her lips stretched into a sly smirk. "After all, others might copy our goods. However, only our clients know something others won''t."

    "What do you mean by that, mydy?"

    Aries crooked a finger as she leaned forward, making Violet bend over. Thetter''s pupils slowly widened as Aries shared a secret with her.

    "It''ll be chaos." Aries winked as she drew back. "And it will force others to either buy the pieces we sell at all costs orбн forget about it."

    "Mydyбн" Violet looked at Aries, frightened at how Aries could be terrifyingly cunning. "бн you frighten me."

    Aries grinned. "Don''t be. I don''t bite."

    "You don''t bite, but you ruin people."

    "Haha! I trust you will choose those you deem useful before handing out that sort of power and influence." Aries winked.

    Seeing how Aries looked excited, Violet could only sigh faintly. Her respect and admiration for Aries just kept on taking leaps, and Violet was honored to work with her. She had always known Aries was wise and her doing business was as easy as eating peanuts because thend of Rikhill was a center of trade. However, for Violet, Aries might''ve not noticed it yet, but it was almost like this was preparation.

    ''A preparation to take full control of the high society and establish powerбн'' Violet thought, smiling subtly. ''In that case, she wouldn''t have a problem once she had taken the throne as the empress.''

 Chapter 527 Strange

    Days had gone by in a blur. Aries''s daily routine centered on her health condition and the boutique. It had been over a week since the opening of the shop. So far, there were already a few clients as Aries sent out a few invitations beforehand.

    "Strangeбн" she mumbled, enjoying the night breeze on the balcony of her room. Aries was sitting on the railing, holding a ss of wine while the bottle and snacks were beside her.

    "I had been very busy for the past weeks," she whispered, looking into the thick darkness ahead. "But my condition seems to get better and better."

    Was it because of the pills she was taking? She wondered. Or was it because she was getting enough rest? Aries was absolute it wasn''t thetter. Although she was trying to get as much rest as she wanted, she knew she had been busier than ever. Yet, she wasn''t experiencing fatigue.

    Aries squeezed her biceps mildly. "Was it a false rm?" her brows furrowed. "The physicians didn''t know what sort of disease I have. But after getting checked, I don''t feel that terrible anymore."

    Her mind slowly drifted away, finding it strange that after getting herself checked, Aries felt better. She could just take it as the pills being effective, but what made it strange was that the pain was gone with a snap of a finger. Aries didn''t feel any sort of dizziness and headaches, nor did she experience nosebleeds.

    ''When did it really start?'' she wondered, narrowing her eyes while unconsciously twirling the wine in her hand. "Sinceбн that time I started nning about the boutiqueбн?"

    Aries tilted her head to the side, not knowing if she should dwell on this. Not that she wasn''t happy about it; she would be d if it was simply a false rm. However, Abel knew about her deteriorating health. He could''ve just told her it was fatigue, but he took it seriously.

    "Speaking of," she murmured, frowning as she raised her eyes in the Imperial Pce''s direction. From her room, she could see the towering towers of the glorious pce. "He had been equally busy and I can only count the times he woke me up in my sleep. I wonder what could make him so busy?"

    Aries snapped her tongue, raising the winess to her lips. She winced slightly, licking her lips as she swallowed the wine down her throat.

    The night breeze blew past her, making Aries clutch the shawl over her thin nightdress. Her foot dangling inside the balcony swung back and forth. Aries hummed, enjoying the peace the night gives leisurely.

    "I want to wait for him tonight," she whispered, drawing a deep breath, allowing the wind to blow her hair back. "I wonder what time does hee? It''s a littlete."

    Since Abel and Aries had been very busy with their lives, there were only a few times Aries could remember he woke her up in her sleep. She would be very sad if not for the roses and letters Abel would leave every morning to uplift her mood.

    ''Still, isn''t it a bit strange?'' Aries arched a brow, eyes fixed in the imperial pce''s direction. ''Abel isn''t the type to be satisfied with just purely sleeping beside me. It''s been a while since hest touched me. What''s going on?''

    Aries didn''t think about this much in the past because she was preupied with establishing her business. But now that she had free time, she couldn''t help but narrow her eyes suspiciously.

    "What is heбн hiding from me now?" she wondered. "Is that the reason he wasn''t seeing me while I''m awake? Because he knew he can''t lie to me?"

    Aries let out a dryugh, casting a look of disdain in the imperial pce''s direction. "Abelбн you bettere here now. I won''t sleep a wink."

    <strong>*****</strong><sub> </sub>

    <strong>[ Imperial Pce ]</strong>

    Abel was lying t on the grass in the garden of the Rose Pce. His eyes were fixed on the night sky, barely blinking. He had been silent for an entire hour now, while Conan, who was standing several feet from him, frowned.

    When Conan''s lips parted, his brows elevated. He gazed up, catching ck feathers fall and then a raven flying down. The raven, Morro,nded straight beside Abel''s figure.

    "Morro?" Conan muttered, furrowing his brows.

    "Your Majesty, I had returned afterpleting your orders," Morro announced, lowering his head. "I had surveyed thend you are interested in, and your suspicion was right. It seemed there was another regression."

    "Had you met my sister?"

    "No. However, Duke Darkmore told me she had been there."

    "Mathilda?"

    "Both."

    Abel furrowed his brows, narrowing his eyes. "Anything else that you found interesting?"

    "The duke will return to the empire after surveying the Heart''s Kingdom," Morro reported, staring at Abel silently. He then nced to the side, seeing Conan standing still while darting his eyes between him and Abel.

    "Isaiah seemed to be in a hurry," Abel crooned.

    "He wants to return before the coven. Your Majesty, I think the attendees of the uing coven had concocted a n to end you."

    Abel simpered. "Isn''t that the reason the coven exists?" he cast Morro a knowing look.

    "The coven is the only time I am vulnerable. However, since it was a gathering sealed by me and Isaiah, it cannot be changed easily." Abel slowly set his eyes on the night sky. "Morro, there was a mouse that had been lurking in the street of the capital. She''s been evasive, managing to get away from the search team Conan formed."

    "What?" Morro furrowed his brows and nced at Conan, a bit surprised about this. Conan wasn''t the type to fail in hunting down someone, but Abel said he failed?

    "If you find her, lock her up somewhere. But if you can''t, make sure Aries will not approach the imperial pce until the coven ends." A glint flickered across Abel''s eyes as his jaw tightened. "The marquess will surely stop her, but just to make sure. She''ll be devastated to know that a bloody coven exists."

 Chapter 528 Certain Things He Cannot Undo

    As the night fell deeper, Abel, like usual, went to the marquess''s estate via carriage. He wasn''t in a rush to see her, even though that was the only thing he wanted.

    Dexter was generous and considerate for creating a way Abel could use without going through the hassle of avoiding any watchful eyes. Hence, he didn''t have to be discreet, walking through the secret passage from the back of the Marquess''s estate, directly leading to the hallway where Aries''s chambers were located.

    The door creaked oddly loud, piercing the quiet air on the entire floor. Her room was dimly lit by several candbras and the firece.

    His eyes fell on the bed. It was empty. He moved his gaze to the left, to where the set of chairs was arranged. There, on the futon, was Aries chugging down the ss of wine elegantly.

    The side of his lips curled up as his eyes glinted, peering at the silk nightdress she was wearing and the shawl that had slid over her shoulder. He strutted towards her, plopping his butt down right beside her. He spread his arm over the backrest and then across from her.

    ? "Why are you still awake?" he asked, nting a kiss on her shoulder de. "Waiting for me?"

    Aries cast him a quick side-eye, bending over to put back the ss of wine on the table in front of her.

    "My husbandeste in the night." She straightened her back. "I find it strange. I can''t help but assume he doesn''t want to deal with me."

    Her eyes glinted, twisting her upper body until she was facing him squarely. "You''re not tired of me now, are you?"

    "I find your question quite offensive, darling." He shed her a short smile. "However, I heard arguments are normal between married couples. They saidбн it was healthy. Thus, let''s argue."

    "So?" Aries tilted her head to the side. "Should I raise my voice to see how healthy our rtionship is?"

    "Darling, you should raise your voice. Your calm tone right now sounds more intimidating. I''m frightened."

    Aries brushed his shoulder with the back of her hand mildly. "Abel, youбн are not keeping a secret from me, are you?"

    This time, he didn''t respond. Aries fluttered her long eyshes ever so slowly, staring at his sinful beauty quietly. He didn''t have to say anything to answer her question; his silence was enough for Aries to understand there was a deeper reason Abel wasingte in the night to see her.

    Abel knew Aries was quick to catch on to things.

    "There were daysбн I wished you were dumb," he confessed, chuckling with his lips closed. Abel tucked a portion of her hair behind her ear gently. "Yes, darling. I nned to visit you when you were already fast asleep for the next couple of days, before abducting you to stay with me for the next several months."

    "And for what reason?" she arched a brow, watching his eyes hold her gaze. "What will happen in the next couple of days?"

    "Can I lie?"

    "You can''t tell me?"

    "I can. I just don''t want to." He shrugged.

    Aries took a deep breath while staring into his eyes. She knew Abel, and if she pressed on the matter a bit more, he would definitely tell her what he had been up to.

    "Then, just don''t tell me." Aries let out a deep sigh. "You, of all people, shouldn''t lie to me."

    "I thought so." Abel smiled, caressing her jaw with the back of his fingers. "I won''t be able to visit you for the time being."

    "Are you going to leave?"

    "No."

    "You''ll stay in the imperial pce? But you can''t visit me?"

    "Mhm." He rocked his head. "It has something to do with someбн vampiric issues."<sub> </sub>

    Aries opened her mouth to ask more, but her voice was stuck in her throat. All she could do for a moment was stare at him. His expression didn''t give her the slightest hint of anything in particr, but her gut feeling told her it was somethingбн dreadful.

    She bit her lips before she rocked her head. "My gut feeling told me to ask further questions, but I don''t want to force you. I respect you enough to hold myself back."

    "You look sexy."

    "Don''t change the subject." Aries leaned towards the table to pour herself a ss, and then the other empty winess Gertrude prepared for Abel. "I am barely holding myself back from prying, but it doesn''t mean I''m not harrowed by it. It''s not alright and I want to know what is it that can force my obsessive husband to stop himself from seeing his beloved wife."

    When Aries faced him once more, she offered the ss of wine, which Abel epted.

    "I want you to give me your word that whatever this was won''t harm you," she continued airily. "But a part of me knows you''ll break this promiseбн somehow."

    "No one can harm me."

    "Because no matter how many times you die, you will still wake up?"

    "Darling, I promised you I won''t make you a widow."

    "You better." She huffed, looking away from him. "I''ll kill you myself if you die."

    Abel pressed his lips and then smiled. He studied her side profile as she sipped the wine elegantly. His heart was a little moved, although she was angry about something she wasn''t sure yet.

    Surely, his wife was sharper than a newly sharpened dagger. Even before she could confirm something, she already knew something was about to go down.

    "I heard you had been preupied with your shop," he said, shifting their discussion to something else since it had been a while since they chatted.

    Aries shot him a side-eye. "You heard?"

    "I had topromise since Ie to you while you''re already asleep."

    "I want to get angry. I want to tell you everything in detail myself, but my husband purposelyeste." Aries leaned back, folding her arms under her chest. "Pretend you heard nothing. Once you settled whatever you are trying to settle, I''ll let you know everything that I''ve been doing. Until then, I''ll store my enthusiasm regarding it."

    "Shall I do that?"

    "You should." She huffed, rolling her eyes at him. "Don''t take that role away from me."

    Abel smiled, leaning his head until his temple was resting on her shoulder. His arm snaked around her lean waist, pulling her closer.

    "I''m sorry," he expressed under his breath. "There were many things I had done before you came into my life. I told you I regret nothing, I still don''t. However, there were certain things I can''t undo easily."

    Aries pursed her lips, lowering her eyes. "You don''t have to apologize," she whispered back. "I''m simply upset for a reason I cannot understand, but I''m not angry. I''m always on your side no matter what бк even if you were in the wrong."

    His eyes softened, smiling subtly. Abel pulled her closer, his tense muscles rxing with the warmth of her body. Even when he had embraced her every night while she was asleep, there was still something different when she was conscious.

    "I missed you," he whispered. "You have no ideaбн how much I miss you, Aries."

    ''No. I definitely understand,'' was what she wanted to say, but kept her silence instead.

    Deep in Aries''s heart, she knew something was about to happen. She didn''t know what it was exactly, but this uneasiness in her heart would bloom faster than she had fathomed.

 Chapter 529 Looks Like Father And Daughter

    Conan stared at Abel and Sunny sitting side by side around the table in the inner pce from the farthest shelf near the entrance. Abel had his arms against the edge of the round table. His attention was on Sunny. The little girl, on the other hand, was doodling something.

    It was almost like a picture of a father and his daughter while he tutors her. Conan never thought he would behold such a sight. Abel just wasn''t the type, but somehow he looked closer to Sunny these days.

    "I wonder what Lady Aries would say if she sees this," he mumbled to himself, considering how normal Abel looked right this second while talking to Sunny.

    "She''ll probably wonder what it will be like if she and His Majesty have a child."

    Conan nearly jumped when Dexter''s voice came from behind him. He looked to his left in disdain while Dexter stood beside him. The marquess fixated his eyes on Abel and Sunny.

    "What a strange sight to behold,"mented Dexter, questioning his eyes if he needed them to get checked. He darted his eyes between Abel and Sunny before shifting his attention to the man beside him.

    "Why did you call for me that is so important?" Dexter asked without beating around the bush.

    "I''m not the one who did. It was an order from His Majesty." Conan jerked his chin in Abel''s direction. "I''ll go check the preparations for the coven."

    Dexter blinked ever so slowly, watching Conan saunter off without saying another word. It was unlike Conan, but since the Coven would happen tomorrow night, he knew the reason Conan was acting detached.

    ''Even after all these yearsбн he still hadn''t gotten used to it,'' Dexter thought, peeling his eyes away from Conan''s back to Abel and Sunny. ''Well, I''m not the one to talk. It''s all that Isaiah''s fault.''

    Dexter marched towards the table where Sunny and Abel were idling at. As he got closer, his steps slowed down, listening to what Abel was spewing.

    "A death penalty," said Abel, knocking on Sunny''s paper. He waited for the little girl to look up at him before he continued. "You''re trial is still pending since there were other important things to do. But I''ve been thinking of what punishment to give you for your offenses."

    "What do you think?" he added. "Should we chop your head?"

    Sunny blinked twice. "Sounds good."

    "They will roast you in hell lest you haven''t figured that out."

    "Like a pig?"

    "Like a pig, indeed."

    Sunny peered at him silently, unbothered by his remarks. She watched him tilt his head to the side.

    "Don''t die, Grandpa," she remarked, receiving no reaction from him. "Sunny will be sad."

    "And who told you I will going to die?"

    "You." Sunny set her eyes at the piece of art she had been doodling that were nothing but stick figures. "Sunny heard about the coven when Grandpa is at its weakest. They will kill Grandma."

    Abel pressed his lips, watching the little girl continue with her doodle. "I won''t die."

    "Mister Fabian always tells Sunny when you pray for something, the creator gives theplete opposite of your wish." She muttered innocently. "Grandpa used to seek death, but he was denied repeatedly. Now, he doesn''t wish to dieбн but he might."<sub> </sub>

    Sunny slowly cast her eyes back to Abel once again. "Tilly will be sad if you died."

    "No." Abel smiled shortly. "She''ll tell me, ''good for you.''"

    "Tilly will only say that if that is what you want. Otherwise, she will be sad." Sunny smacked her thin lips and pouted.

    "What does a child know?" he mumbled, cupping his jaw with the bottom of his palm.

    "Sunny doesn''t know many things aside from what she observes."

    "Then what do you think about Aries''s condition?"

    Sunny paused and snapped her eyes at Dexter''s figure. Thetter had stopped several steps away from them, looking back at Sunny with intrigue and disbelief.

    "You were all lying to Grandma," she remarked without a second hesitation, casting her doe eyes back to Abel. "My mother will be furious with my father if he does this to her."

    "Mister Fabian told Sunny that secrets are the most virulent that ruins rtionships. That is why Mister Fabian doesn''t keep secrets."

    "We''re not keeping things a secret."

    "You were holding back information." Sunny frowned at Abel. "Grandpa, Sunny is scolding you. Sunny likes Grandma, and I don''t want her to die if Grandpa dies."

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed, nting a hand on top of her little head. "I am offended, Glutton. Don''t underestimate me."

    "I never underestimated Grandpa. Tilly said Grandpa is strong, but right now, Grandpa isn''t." Sunny looked at him straight in the eye, sizing him up in silence for a moment. "Grandpa makes Sunny sad."

    The side of his lips curled up into a subtle smile, staring back at Sunny''s adorable face. Amusement fastened across his eyes the longer he stared at Sunny. The way this child spoke, no one would think she was a three-year-old little vampire.

    However, this wasn''t new to Abel. After all, his youngest sister was just an infant when she ran away from home.

    "I willбн not die," he stressed under his breath, waiting for Sunny to look back at him. "This will be thest coven. I''ll be breaking the chain. Otherwise, she''ll get hurt once shees to know about the coven''s existence."

    Sunny''s lips parted, but she closed them again, leaving it to Abel''s imagination for whatever she didn''t say.

    "Until then, stay in the Marquess'' care," Abel continued solemnly, allowing Dexter to listen to his remarks. "I''m expecting more guests in tomorrow''s coven. They will kill you if they figured out you carry this cursed blood. The only person who will execute you is me."

    Sunny frowned but bit her tongue from speaking further.

    "Will that be alright with you, my brother-inw?" Abel snapped his eyes at Dexter. And unlike usual, the marquess didn''t act rashly at what the emperor addressed him. "Will you look after this child for the time being? I''ll fetch her and my wife myself once the coven is over."

    Dexter held his breath until his neck turned taut, lowering his head. "As you wish, Your Majesty."

 Chapter 530 The Rule Of Grimsbanne

    Abel crossed his arms, a coat was draped over his shoulders. Standing in front of the window in the hallway, his eyes fell on the carriage moving away through the driveway. The side of his lips curled up, knowing the carriage passengers were none other than Sunny and Dexter.

    "Dexterбн" he whispered, chuckling weakly. "... you should just continue loathing me. Do not falter or show the slightest concern. It''s more reassuring that way."

    His eyelids drooped and, at the same time, a glint flickered across his eyes. They were softer than usual, but no one could tell what exactly was in his mind.

    Abel kept his eyes on the carriage slowly approaching the wide gates of the imperial pce. "That childбн" he trailed off, recalling everything Sunny had spewed carelessly. "... somehow makes me sorrowful."

    And yet, what followed his remarks was a shortugh. He was aware Sunny was being sincere, and everything she had said was nothing but facts. Abel wasn''t sure what to expect in the coven tomorrow.

    Abel had never thought of the coven that much in the past, knowing it was nothing but a failure. However, his gut feeling told him tomorrow''s feast would be different. He could feel it; not just by his gut feeling, but the atmosphere across the empire.

    Many powerful vampires and witches had arrived in the Haimirich Empire to take part in Abel''s execution. He wasn''t pleased about it, but he had no power to stop it; Abel had surrendered any authority of each coven away.

    This was just another consequence of his conquest to meet death. He couldn''t drag Aries into it, especially if his ns were to eradicate this coven entirely.

    "I will fetch her after the coven," he mumbled to remind himself he had to survive tomorrow. "She better reward me with loads of kisses and affection, and a wild night of passion."

    "Your Majesty."

    Suddenly, Conan''s voice came from behind Abel. He kept his distance from Abel, staring at the emperor''s broad back. But instead of showing sadness, Conan''s eyes glinted as a fire zed within them.

    When Abel turned on his heel to face Conan, he arched a brow. He gazed at Conan from head to toe in amusement. Thetter was still in his formal suit, but he was holding a sheath that sheltered a sword that had a golden handle.

    "You picked up your sword again," Abel mused, but Conan''s expression remained solemn.

    "I will massacre them all," Conan remarked without batting an eye. "And end this coven once and for all."

    "How cute."

    "Your Majesty, allow me to kill Isaiah."

    Abel chuckled and shook his head sideways. "Isaiah simply fulfilled my request. There is no need for my people to shed blood." Abel turned on his heel, sauntering off ever so leisurely.

    "The coven was my responsibility. Therefore, I''ll end it myself." Abel''s eyes glinted dangerously, showing only the ruthlessness he had always carried. "Summon the nigh council to my chanceryбн and close the imperial pce."

    "Haimirichбн will no longer protect just anyone, especially with my wife living in his verynd," he added, and Conan bowed.

    "As you wish, Your Majesty."

    <strong>********</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong><sub> </sub>

    Dexter would constantly cast Sunny, who was sitting across from him in the carriage, a look. The little girl had a bowl of grapes on herp, a bribe she got from Abel so she would follow Dexter.

    "You know about the coven?" he blurted out, biting his tongue a secondte upon realizing he allowed his curiosity to get the better of him.

    Sunny looked back at him, still chewing. She didn''t reply immediately, savoring the sweetness with a tinge of sourness of the grape.

    "Sunny had heard about it," she answered right after swallowing the grape.

    "I seeбн" Dexter rocked his head in understanding, before furrowing his brows when she spoke once again.

    "Uncle, do you like my grandpa?" she asked innocently, warranting a snort from him.

    "My hatred towards him runs deep. He doesn''t deserve to die. That is too easy for him."

    "But Uncle, your eyes and actions told Sunny otherwise," she pointed out bluntly, picking up another piece of grape with her tiny fingers. "You don''t want grandpa to die because you like grandpa, right?"

    "No."

    "Why? Because he killed your sister?"

    "What?" His breath hitched, eyes dted in shock. "How did you know that?"

    "Sunny was reading the royal records while grandpa was away," she exined, keeping it short and simple. "But grandpa killed Danie because she was scheming with the witches and vampires to end my grandpa. She used you."

    "Shut up.." His voice shook, finger trembling as he pointed it at her. "You know nothing."

    "I think Sunny knows enough." She blinked once again. "To save her from an incurable disease, my grandpa turned her into a vampire. However, your sister was very different when she was sick and when she got cured. Her greed is insatiable, willing to take down the person who saved her and use you as a scapegoat to manipte the purity of her blood?"

    "Didn''t she put a wedge between you and my grandpa, making you lose your trust in the man you pledge your loyalty to?" Sunny continued, tilting her head as the grape hovered before her lips. "Even so, grandpa sullied his hands just so you don''t live with the guilt of taking your sister''s life."

    The innocence in her eyes was still there, however, the hair-raising glint across her eyes vanquished the innocence in them.

    "If something bad happened to my grandpa, Sunny will take my grandmama with me," she added. This time, her adorable voice sounded firmer with full of conviction. "And this empire will melt just like chocte."

    The side of her lips stretched from ear to ear until her eyes were squinting. Meanwhile, Dexter held his breath, seeing Sunny in a different light. He had seen this child multiple times when he visited the imperial pce. But only now did Dexter confirm his suspicion.

    This child was simply a menace. Not that he believed she was purely innocent, knowing the blood running deep in her veins.

    "Nothing bad will happen to him." He breathed out. "I trust him."

    "Sunny didn''t say Uncle doesn''t trust Grandpa." She turned her attention to the window. "What Sunny doesn''t trust are the people that fill the night council. They bullied the sleeping grandpa, and now, they will bully my handsome grandpa. Sunny will not forgive anyone who torments her family. That is the rule of our family."

 Chapter 531 The Night Council

    In the morning, Haimirich was just like any other empire. There were officials going in and out of the imperial pce. However, not many knew that there was more to know in the empire, especially when night fell.

    The officials attending in the morning are mostly filled with humans; there were only a few morning officials, who were vampires, blending perfectly with them. Most of the officials knew a lot of things, but one.

    The existence of the night council.

    The night councilprised ten noble vampire n leaders and two high priestesses (Wan Leaders) in Haimirich. Their sole duty was to keep the vampires and witches living in the empire at bay. Everything regarding the vampires, witches, and everything that was non-human was under the night council''s jurisdiction.

    Unlike the morning royal court that would happen daily, the night council only held gatherings at least once a month. But only before and during the coven would the night council bepleted, since its members didn''t have that great rtionship.

    Sitting in the head seat, Abel gazed at the people sitting respectively on their seats around the oval-shaped table. The room was brightly lit, almost orange, sharing the same thick silence. Some of them bore confidence and distant expression, others looked a bit more nonchnt.

    Conan studied everyone in silence, standing behind Abel''s seat. His hands were behind him, keeping his chin up. Meanwhile, Abel remained silent like usual.

    "I will not beat around the bush." Abel''s calm voice pierced the thick air, reigning in the secret chancery within the inner pce. "Whatever you are nning, you better give your best. I n to end this coven."

    No one reacted, very unlike the chaotic morning royal court, where everyone was quick to react. But although they remained silent, they slowly turned their eyes to the emperor of thisnd, and also the only person who bridges everyone.

    "And with that being said, you may have an option to either stay low orбн continue to challenge my authority." Abel leaned forward, treating this meeting with more seriousness.

    A middle-aged man with a dark mustache contrasting his nched hair that was cleanly parted in the middle snorted. Conan''s eyes instantly glinted with malice, catching the man''s almost unnoticeable reaction.

    "Your Majesty, the covenбн is the only reason we, the council, had followed all your conditions," said the man under his breath, looking back at Abel in ridicule. "Now, you are telling us you want to end the coven Your Excellency created himself?"

    "Exactly. I was the one who established the coven, and thus, I will be the one to eradicate it." Abel smirked, unbothered by the scornful look of the man. "I''m not stopping you from attending this coven, since I know you lot are all hungry for my blood. I am simply warning everyone of what to expect in tomorrow''s coven. Your beloved emperor doesn''t want to sit idly tomorrow."

    His lips stretched, fixing his attention on the middle-aged man. "To be fair, I am actually looking forward to your attendance, Viscardi."

    "In other words, Your Majesty ns to massacre everyone who attends the coven?" a woman sitting two chairs from the man named Firion Viscardi spoke. Elegance was the perfect word for her. Despite her wrinkly face and white hair, she had aged elegantly.

    "Aren''t you bold, Your Majesty?" she looked at Abel with a smirk, not hiding the amusement in her eyes. "You never cared about the coven and had treated it with little regard бк"

    "And yet, no one had yet seeded in inheriting the prize for many years." Another man in a neat ck suit chimed in, smirking at the olddy. "Isn''t that right, Your Holiness?"<sub> </sub>

    "Balthier, are you insinuating no one will fulfill His Majesty''s one and only wish?" asked the old refineddy to the other man sitting two chairs away across from her.

    "What I am pointing out is that it is bold of you to talk to His Majesty with such confidence. Slow-witted as I am, I am curious. Where is the source of your confidence, Marcia?" the man, Dante Balthier, arched a brow yfully. "Have you found a spell that could take down His Majesty?"

    "Why don''t you attend tomorrow''s coven and see for yourself, Balthier?" Marcia Graves, a member of the night council, and also the High Priestess of the first Wan Coven, smirked wickedly. "Or are you too terrified that you are considering skipping tomorrow''s banquet?"

    "I won''t deny I am." Dante Balthier shrugged, smiling back at Abel. "His Majesty never gave importance to the coven, and no one has yet to seed. I can''t help but tremble, assuming he is now nning to take it seriously. It''ll be a massacreбн just like thest one. I won''t be surprised if this time around, no one will leave the banquet hall alive. Isn''t that right, Your Majesty?"

    "Don''t speak as if you truly meant that, Balthier." Firion Viscardi, the middle-aged man, chuckled in ridicule. "If anything, I wouldn''t be surprised if your sneaky mind had already set its attention on Vandran''s sister."

    Shing!

    Firion Viscardi raised his chin as the screeching sound of metal pierced the air. A de instantly pressed on the side of his neck. He moved his eyes to the side, catching Conan standing within his reach while pressing the tip of the de against his neck slightly deeper.

    "One more nonsense, and I won''t hesitate to cut off your tongue. I don''t think you need one to attend the coven, Firion Viscardi," Conan warned coldly, making Firion Viscardi raise both his hands in surrender.

    "I yed too much, Lord Hakebourne." Firion sighed calmly. "My apologies."

    The side of his lips then curled up into a smirk. "It seemed you had been on the edge, my Lord бк ah!"

    Conan withdrew the sword from Firion Viscardi''s neck, only to swing it down, stabbing thetter''s thigh without batting an eye. Some people around the table flinched, taken aback at the cruel actions Conan chose in a split second. Others snickered, pleased at how things unfolded.

    Meanwhile, Firion Viscardi, who had been acting cocky for quite a while now, grabbed the edge of the table. Breathing in and out heavily through his gritted teeth, he shot Conan a ring dagger.

    "You бк ugh!"

    "Hah. I am indeed on the edge these days, Viscardi." Conan lowered his head until he was staring at Firion eye to eye. "Don''t test me. I don''t know where this sword willnd next if you do."

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed, shaking his head. He didn''t dwell on Conan and Firion as he faced everyone.

    "I won''t repeat myself, nor will I ever hear your pleas once you ask for my mercy." Abel pushed himself up, hands on the surface of the table. "As I''ve said, I won''t sit idly. May you all decide wisely."

 Chapter 532 The Night Before The Coven

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the Vandran Residenceбн</strong>

    Aries let out a deep breath, watching Sunny hold a bowl of grapes on herp. The little girl had an impressive appetite, knowing Gustav simply refilled the bowl she carried from the imperial pce to the house vandran.

    "So, Sunny will stay in the estate for the meantime?" Aries looked away from Sunny, who was sitting beside her on the settee, to Dexter on the armchair.

    "Yes."

    "Why?"

    Dexter snapped his eyes at Aries ever so tenderly. "Don''t you want her to?"

    "Sunny wants to stay with Grandmama," Sunny chimed in as soon as Dexter''s remarks left his lips, watching Aries look back at her with furrowed brows. "I was sad staying in Grandpa''s house. I missed Grandma."

    Aries bit her inner lower lip, observing the little girl''s innocent and adorable face. She sighed, and then the side of her lips curled up subtly, patting Sunny''s head before facing Dexter.

    "I don''t know what''s going on, but I''m getting worried," she expressed honestly. "I don''t mind looking after Sunny, butбн I don''t like this uneasiness in my heart."

    "Don''t worry, Dani. His Majesty will tell you what is going on after he resolved some things." Dexter breathed out, looking at her in the eyes solemnly. "Give himбн give us some time."

    Aries remained silent, clutching her skirt tightly. "I hope I won''t regret this," she whispered. "I won''t be able to forgive myself if this trust I am willing to give you all will cost me to lose those who are dear to me."

    "You won''t."

    "I hope so. Anyway, I''m tired for the day." Aries nted her hand on her thigh and pushed herself up. "I''ll resign to bed early."

    Aries curtsied slightly before turning on her heel to leave. She didn''t look back once, leaving Sunny and Dexter inside. Little did she know, the little girl jumped from the settee when she stood up, following Aries with the bowl of grapes in her arms.

    "Seriouslyбн" Aries looked back at the door once she crossed the threshold, only to flinch upon seeing Sunny behind her. "Sunny?"

    Sunny blinked, looking up at her. "Can I go with Grandmama? Or are you also angry at Sunny?" she queried.

    ? Aries wanted to refuse, knowing she wasn''t in the mood to deal with a child. However, she didn''t have the heart to turn down Sunny''s request. A deep exhale escaped Aries''s nostrils, squatting down in front of Sunny.

    "Sorry, Sunny," she expressed with a bitter smile. "I''m not angry at you; you did nothing wrong."

    "Can I sleep with Grandmama?" Sunny threw a follow-up question, watching Aries''s eyes soften.

    "Why?" Aries asked. "Are you scared?"

    "No, but Sunny wants to sleep with Grandma."

    Aries''s lips stretched a bit wider, patting the little girl''s head. "You remind me of my little sister. Her name was ric. She used to sneak into my room and sleep with me." She then pinched Sunny''s chubby cheek mildly.<sub> </sub>

    "Shall we bathe together?" she proposed, and Sunny''s lips stretched from ear to ear.

    "Yes!"

    Aries chuckled, offering her hand for Sunny to sp. "Then, shall we?"

    When Sunny sped Aries''s hand, thetter took the bowl of grapes from Sunny to carry it. Holding each other''s hand, they sauntered through the hallway to Aries''s chambers.

    Gertrude was already waiting for Aries in her chambers when thetter came with a little girl. Gertrude had already prepared a warm bath for Aries, so Aries and Sunny went to bathe together.

    Dipped in the warm tub together, Aries scrubbed Sunny''s back mildly. They were silent sinceing to the bath, worrying Gertrude, who was inside the bathing room, lest Aries would need some assistance.

    "Your skin is as white and soft as milk." Aries''s voice pierced the silent air after a long silence, an attempt to kill the awkwardness she was feeling. Her lips curled up. Sunny looked pampered, and Aries could tell because it was showing on the girl''s skin.

    "Mother likes to bathe with Sunny," Sunny replied in her adorably innocent voice.

    Aries smiled subtly. "You must''ve missed her."

    "Sunny misses everyone." Sunny pressed her lips into a thin line, but she didn''t show the slightest sign of sadness. "But Sunny needs to stay here for now."

    ''I always want to ask the real reason she''s in the empire,'' Aries thought, biting her tongue to stop herself from raising questions to a little girl. ''Her previous answers were too vague, after all.''

    Silence befell their shoulders once again as neither of them talked. Sunny''s back was still facing Aries, and when thetter told her to turn around so she could scrub the little girl''s arms, Sunny saw theplex look in Aries''s eyes.

    "Grandma, are you worried about Grandpa?" asked Sunny out of in curiosity.

    Aries paused, snapping her eyes ever so slowly at the little girl. The corner of her lips curled up slightly.

    "Yes," she answered under her breath. "Your Grandpa is strong and capable, but I can''t shrug off this unrest in my heart. It was almost likeбн I might not see him again."

    Aries''s hand trembled as she held the cloth to scrub Sunny''s cor. She breathed out heavily, lowering her eyes to hide the deep worry in them.

    "Abel isn''t the person who keeps things from me unlessбн it is something that can harm me or our rtionship," she continued mncholy. "For him to keep his mouth shut, I know, deep in my heart, there is something grave that will happen. I''m not sure myself what it was, but what I am certain is this uneasiness in my heart will not disappear anytime soon."

    "I''m scared," Aries added, forgetting she was talking to a three-year-old girl. She was practically a toddler, although she spoke like an adult.

    Sunny pressed her lips into a thin line while staring at Aries''s somber front. She was almost in awe at how sharp Aries''s instincts were.

    "Don''t worry, Grandma." She shed Aries the brightest smile, clutching thetter''s hand. "You probably miss Grandpa. Sunny is also anxious about my mama and papa, but they''re strong. I trust them!"

    Aries smiled warmly at the little girl, sighing in relief that she was here. "You are the sweetest, Sunny. Your parents are lucky to have such a wonderful daughter."

 Chapter 533 The Night Before The Coven II

    After Aries and Sunny bathed together, Aries insisted on taking care of the little girl instead of asking Gertrude for some help. She dried Sunny''s body, changed her clothes, and evenbed the girl''s short silver hair with hazel turfs after dying it.

    p When Aries was done, she was about to escort Sunny to the guest room where she would stay. However, Sunny tugged her hand and asked in the most adorable voice, "can I sleep in Grandmama''s room?"</anda>

    Aries didn''t have the heart to refuse her. Abel wouldn''t visit her for the time being. Therefore, she agreed to the little girl''s request. The main reason Aries was now lying on her side, facing Sunny. Thetter was also lying on her side, facing Aries.

    ''She''s so cute,'' Aries mused inwardly, smiling, bewitched by Sunny''s adorable charms. She could look at her all day and she wouldn''tin about it.

    "You should sleep," Aries whispered, seeing that Sunny was just staring at her with her innocent doe eyes.

    "Sunny isn''t sleepy," came out an adorable voice that could melt even an iceberg.

    "Should I tell you a story?" Aries asked, and Sunny nodded. So Aries hummed a long tune, pondering which story Sunny might want to hear.

    There were no children''s books in the House of Vandran. It wasn''t surprising, though. Not many were invited to enter the estate. Ever since Aries came into the marquess''s residence, there was never a single child that stepped foot inside this mansion.

    Aries''s lips curled up as she thought about an overused children''s story. "Have you heard about the story between the whiny boy and the potato?"

    Sunny shook her head mildly. Her eyes gleamed, however, eager to hear about this seemingly interesting story she never heard before.

    "Well, this story is about that." Aries cleared her throat, propping her temple against her knuckles. "There was this one boy who always whines about boredom. As he took a walk in the garden, a potato suddenly popped out of nowhere.

    Apparently, the potato had been buried for a long time and no one was helping her get out. So when she found a chance, she crawled her way out of the dirt and met the whiny boy. The whiny boy took her home, washed the dirt stuck on her, and took care of her.

    However, he still whines because he had always been bored. So the potato said the world out there is fun. If only he stepped out, he''d know how fun it was.

    Little did the potato know, there was a deeper reason the boy didn''t want to go out. Apparently, the whiny boy was bullied by his friends because he was... different. Therefore, he kept himself within his safe zones.

    When the potato heard about it, her heart broke. She felt bad for him and wanted to apany him to the end. As they enjoy each other''spany, the whiny boy starts seeing how colorful the world was while the potato found beauty in his deep scars.

    They promised each other бк"

    <strong>Zzz</strong>

    Aries halted from continuing her story when Sunny started snoring. She chuckled, biting her tongue.<sub> </sub>

    "I guess I changed the story too much. It didn''t sound like a children''s book." Aries removed her knuckles from her temple andid down.

    Her eyes softened the longer she stared at Sunny''s round face. The little girl''s cheek was squishing against the pillow, holding her hand in front of her as if she was praying. Aries couldn''t help but brush the stray hairs away from Sunny''s face with her fingertips.

    "She reminds me of the days ric and I had," she whispered, smiling gently. "She also likes to sleep with me."

    Aside from Abel, Aries would usually sleep on her own. The nightmares that kept haunting her in the past had disappeared. But she was slowly growing used to having someone sleep with her.

    "She''s really cute." Aries chuckled, moving closer to Sunny as she embraced her mildly. Although the room temperature was warm enough, there was just something that urged her to embrace Sunny.

    Aries then closed her eyes, stroking Sunny''s little back. She started humming, and her pats on Sunny''s back grew weaker and slower. Before Aries knew it, she too, had fallen into a deep slumber.

    As the night fell deeper and the crackling sound of the wood from the firece resonated in the chambers, Sunny''s eyes slowly cracked open. Her gaze instantly fell on Aries''s face, ncing down only to feel Aries''s arms wrapped around her little hip under the sheet.

    Sunny didn''t struggle, though. Instead, she stared at Aries''s face silently, showing no sign of drowsiness in her eyes. She slipped her hand over the nket, poking the tip of Aries''s nose to check if she would wake up.

    Aries didn''t.

    Hence, Sunny carefully slipped away from Aries''s embrace. Thetter was deep asleep and didn''t wake up; although she moved slightly and moaned when Sunny was already sitting on her side.

    Sunny gazed down at Aries, cing her hand together in front of her, eyes shut. She remained silent, but when she reopened her eyes, a dark glint flickered across her slightly sharp doe eyes.

    Her hands remained touching each other''s palms, eyes falling on Aries once more. Her gaze observed Aries''s face, and then it moved down. Sunny scanned Aries from head to toe until her eyes settled on Aries''s throat.

    Sunny gulped down, recalling her promise to Abel. She ignored her grumbling stomach, reaching for Aries''s throat. When her fingertips were touching Aries''s throat, she pressed it a bit until Aries furrowed her brows.

    "Sunny promised Grandpa not to do anything," Sunny muttered, retracting her hand from Aries''s throat. "But Sunny and Grandma will be sad if Grandpa gets hurt."

    Sunny pursed her lips into a thin line, keeping her gaze on Aries''s face. A deep sigh slipped past her lips, turning her attention to the window. The moonlight filtered through the ss window, adding more light to the dim room.

    She frowned when her stomach grumbled once again. "Sunny is hungryбн"

 Chapter 534 Surprise Visit

    When morning came, Aries was happier with Sunny beside her. Unlike Abel, Aries was able to share her morning rituals with Sunny; they washed their faces together, changed to inner clothing, and shared breakfast together with Dexter.

    Aries''s schedule for today was rather packed than usual. For the past several days, she had been busy with the boutique and drawing designs for their first collections. However, although she kept requesting Dexter to allow her to visit the shop, he kept dying it.

    In other words, all the dyed work somehow umted on this very day. Dexter allowed her to go to the capital with Sunny, and knowing she might not get more chances, Aries squeezed everything she could do for today.

    "I''m so tiredбн" Ariesined under her breath, cupping her cheek with one hand. Her eyes were on Sunny, eating a parfait as a reward for behaving well while Aries helped in the shop. She was still in disguise.

    ''I don''t even have an appetite,'' she told herself, feeling a bit sick while Sunny was gobbling arge portion of the dessert. Not because Sunny was making a mess, but she was feeling sick with the thought of eating food.

    ''But Sunny really enjoys eating. I brought her sandwiches lest she gets hungry on the way, but it was gone minutester.'' Aries pondered about how Sunny was eating snacks without a pause the entire day. ''She looks so cute, though.''

    The corner of Aries''s mouth stretched from ear to ear, pleased watching Sunny enjoy the food. The fatigue of helping in the shop, observing the urrence there as a bystander, and visiting different seamstresses to hire, was slowly seeping deep into her bones. But it was slowly being washed away just by watching the little girl.

    "Do you need more?" asked Aries when Sunny finished the parfait. Thetter''s doe eyes immediately lit up, making Aries chuckle in amusement.

    "I''ll get you another one, then," Aries called for the server, and then pointed at a few desserts on the menu for Sunny. She might not have the appetite, but just watching Sunny eat already made her full.

    "I feel like you''re eating for the two of us," mumbled Aries when their orders were served after minutes of waiting.

    "Because Sunny is eating for Grandma," Sunny happily replied as her eyes sparkled, staring at the generous amount of sweets before her. "These are all for Sunny?"

    "Yes."

    "Grandmama is the best!"

    Aries chuckled while Sunny started filling her stomach excitedly. While thetter was busy gobbling up the food as if she starved for years, Aries set her eyes on the window right next to them. The restaurant''s location was in the heart of the capital, giving her a good view of the za and the glorious exterior of the towering Imperial Pce.

    ''I wonder what he is doing right now,'' she wondered, thinking of her husband. ''I miss him. It''ll be nice to go on an outing with himбн''

    Aries then snuck a look at Sunny. ''Maybe with Sunny, too. The three of us. After all, Sunny might''ve missed her parents.''

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips, peeling her eyes from Sunny ever so slowly. Aries looked up, catching the tangerine tint stretching across the sky.

    ''The day went by just like that,'' she told herself, wondering if what she did for the entire day was considered productive. Assuming she finished things and gained a few contacts who could work with her, a smile dominated her face.

    It was a productive day.

    How she wished to share this with Abel, but the man had been busy with something Aries didn''t have any idea about. Still, she believed, deep in her heart, that she could catch up with him once Abel was less busy.

    "Grandma, are we going back to your ce after here?" Sunny raised a question, snapping Aries back to the currentpse. Aries looked back at the little girl and nodded.

    "We don''t have any ce to drop by," Aries exined. "Why? Do you want to drop by somewhere?"<sub> </sub>

    "Sunny forgot something from the pce."

    "You want to go there?" Aries furrowed her brows while Sunny nodded. "What is it? We can ask my brother to get it since his visits to the imperial pce had been frequent."

    "But it was important. Mister Moon will be sad." Sunny frowned.

    "Mister Moon?"

    "Mhm. Mister Moon is Sunny''s friend. He''s a bunny."

    "A bunny?" Aries cocked her head to the side. "A real one?"

    "Mister Moon is real even when he is a stuffed bunny."

    "Ohбн"

    "Should we buy you a new one, then?"

    Sunny shook her head sideways. "Mister Moon is irreceable."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, observing the expectant eyes looking back at her. She didn''t want to drop by the imperial pce, but it wasn''t that anyone told her not to go.

    "Let''s also surprise Grandpa!" Sunny suggested happily, spreading her chubby little arms wide open. "He had been exhausted when I left yesterday. Grandpa will be happy if he sees Grandma~!"

    "Sunny," Aries called awkwardly, hesitant to agree. But when the little girl frowned with her shoulders rxing, a helpless sigh slipped past Aries''s nostrils.

    "Fine." Sunny''s eyes instantly lit up when Aries agreed. "I also want to see him so badly."

    Sunny''s lips stretched from ear to ear.

    "Finish your food and then we''ll head to the imperial pce, alright?" Aries smiled mischievously, leaning her arms against the edge of the table. "We''ll be sneaking inside to surprise him."

    "Sunny will eat faster!"

    "It''s alright." Aries grinned, linking her hands together, only to rest her chin on top of them. "No need to rush yourself. Take your time. I didn''t have curfew today since my brother kept dying everything. He''ll understand if I told him it''s because I met some inconveniences."

    Sunny''s smile stretched brighter, letting out a joyful, "mhm!" in response to Aries.

    Little did Aries know, she was about to find out the reason Dexter purposely kept her busy today and the horror that lies behind the glorious and seemingly untouchable imperial pce that was supposed to keep the emperor safe.

 Chapter 535 The Start Of The Coven

    While Aries and Sunny were happily traveling via carriage to surprise Abel, the man wished tonight would go by without a problem. Sitting on a settee inside the emperor''s private sitting room, Abel was silent.

    His arms were resting on his spread leg, wearing nothing but a humbling pair of a white linen shirt with a bateau neckline and long braies reaching below the knees. His hair was let down and its turfs reached past his brows.

    Abel blinked ever so tenderly, staring at the heavy chains around both his wrists and ankle. He tugged the one on his right wrist. The nging noises caressed his ears. Yet it didn''te off. He tried on his left, but it was the same.

    <strong>Knock knockбн</strong>

    ? Abel didn''t raise his head upon the faint knock outside the door. He didn''t even take his eyes off of the chains even when he heard the creak of the door as it opened.

    "Your Majesty," came Conan''s solemn voice, standing several feet away from the settee Abel was sitting on. He was wearing a casual pourpoint with a sword clung to the side of his hip; a not so usual clothes he would wear since he had been splurging his wealth on expensive raiments of a gentleman.

    Conan''s eyes softened.

    From Conan''s point of view, Abel was simply sitting with his arms on his legs. There were no chains on sight, but the way Abel''s hands were falling low and how pale they look as if the blood cirction in the emperor''s hands had stopped, Conan was aware Abel was restrained.

    This wasn''t a new sight to behold. It had been going on for years and years, and each time, Conan''s hatred towards Isaiah had increased significantly. He drew a deep breath, releasing his hands from a tight grip.

    "Everyone is already in the hall," Conan announced under his breath. "They all attended."

    Abel smirked, spreading his slender yet pale fingers while staring at it. He didn''t respond to Conan and simply flexed his fingers before curling them. He opened and closed his hands, each time his grip getting weaker.

    "Aries," Abel whispered.

    "The Marquess reassured us she''ll be busy today. That child seemed to have kept her promise to keep her mouth shut," Conan reassured, clenching his teeth right after. "She''ll be safeбн just like the previous covens."

    Abel slowly raised his head, revealing the paleness of his face. His lips were almost dry, and the bags under his eyes were dark. Abel looked like he was on hisst breath, but the glint of his crimson eyes shone the brightest.

    "My gut feeling told me she''ll eventually show up," he remarked under his breath. "Make sure that won''t happen."

    Conan lowered his head, not having the energy to argue that Abel was simply overthinking. "I won''t allow her to see you in such a state."<sub> </sub>

    "Very wellбн" Abel slowly stood up, and the sound of chains clicking against each other resonated in his ears. No one could hear it aside from him. And yet, he didn''t pay attention to it anymore.

    Abel dragged his feet towards Conan; each step was twinned with the metals scratching the floor. He said nothing further as he walked past Conan while thetter stepped aside to make way.

    Conan followed Abel at a safe distance, staring at Abel''s back as they walked through the dimly lit hallway. It had been a while since Conan escorted Abel to the grand hall. It had been Isaiah''s duty, but the man hadn''t arrived in the empire just yet.

    Thest time Conan escorted Abel during the coven was the first coven. He didn''t want to do it again right after. Now, he had to do it himself and despite their ns for putting an end to this abomination, the tightness in his chest grew tighter.

    ''If this turns my stomachбн'' Conan blinked every so tenderly, raising his eyes on Abel''s back. ''... it''ll devastate her, for sure. After all, right now, His Majesty didn''t look like an emperor at all. He looked like someone, walking to the gallows like a prisoner.''

    Conan bit his inner lower lip until the tang of iron filled his mouth. They walked in silence, and despite Abel''s snail''s pace, they eventually reached the huge two doors. Abel stopped right in front of it, gazing up without any reaction. Conan stayed two meters away.

    When Abel fluttered his long and thick eyshes, the door creaked open. The creak sounded overly loud in his ears, lowering his eyes as he watched the gap widen slowly.

    As soon as it opened, Abel caught the lit candbras everywhere, giving the great hall this tangerine tint. There were candles on the floor, which had a symmetrical gap between them. Abel''s eyes followed where the candles were leading him until his eyes fell on the circle surrounded by candles on the outer part and a magic circle within.

    The people inside stood still, eyes at the man standing by the door. Everyone was wearing a cloak, almost like a Franciscan habit the monks wear. The hood over their heads covered the different emotions in their eyes, but it could not conceal the smirk on some of them.

    After observing the great hall surrounded by the night council, Abel let out a shallow breath. He looked tired because he was exhausted. His energy kept slipping from his grip, but despite that and the paralyzing heaviness around his wrists and ankles, Abel dragged his feet forth.

    His steps were heavy and slow, but he didn''t show the slightest difficulty. It took Abel a while to reach the circle, though. He turned on his heel, facing the door where he had entered. His brow arched, cocking his head back a little, sporting a disinterested look.

    "Isaiah will not make it." Abel''s voice was rasped, spreading his arms wide, hearing the invisible chains grazing each other. "Let''s begin."

    As soon as those words fell from his lips, the night council present, excluding Conan, began chanting under their breath until their chanting echoed across the hall. While they started the ceremony, Abel''s white clothes began to turn red from the blood slipping out of his pores, and the red liquid pooled underneath his feet, stretching across the magic circle.

    And yet, Abel remained silent as he watched his blood get absorbed by the lines of the drawing he was standing on.

 Chapter 536 How Did They End Up In This State?

    <strong>Meanwhile...</strong>

    Aries made a stop at the back of the Imperial Pce. Since their n was to surprise Abel, she thought of a way so they could sneak inside. The marshalls at the entrance would surely notify someone about their entry, and it would surely reach Abel''s ears.

    Fortunately, Aries remembered a secret entrance Conan told her about. Hence, Aries and Sunny went and checked it out. Conan wasn''t lying. Behind the bush outside the pce, there was a hole that she could fit through if she squatted down. Sunny was small, so she was able to squeeze herself in.

    The two of them nned to be discreet, but their discretion slowly faded as they infiltrated the inner pce. Looking from left to right with Aries''s head sticking out of the door of the kitchen, her brows furrowed.

    The hallway was empty.

    "Sunny," called Aries in a whisper yell, holding Sunny''s hand as they left the kitchen.

    As the two of them sauntered through the hallway, the question marks hovering over Aries''s head continued to umte. She stopped when they reached another hallway, after taking the stairs to the floor where the emperor''s chancery was located.

    "That''s strange," she mumbled, walking closer to the railing. Aries released Sunny''s hand and nted them on the railing, looking over to see the floor below. "Where''s everyone?"

    Her brows furrowed, thinking that she hadn''t seen any servant or a knight ever since they entered the imperial pce. It was as if everyone simply disappeared. Although it was nighttime, there should be a few servants and knights on duty.

    Aries looked back at Sunny. "I''ve never seen the Imperial Pce this empty." And her heart suddenly thudded for reasons unknown yet ominous.

    "So, where is your Mister Moon?" Aries asked, trying to shun the sudden anxiousness creeping into her heart.

    Sunny didn''t answer but simply pointed in the direction they were originally going. Aries forced a smile, nodding in understanding.

    "Then, let''s fetch Mister Moon first." Aries offered her hand, which Sunny sped tightly. That being said, Sunny led Aries to a sitting room on the same floor as the emperor''s chancery.

    "Mister Moon!" Sunny yelled happily the second Aries opened the door. She let go of Aries''s hand, rushing inside. Meanwhile, Aries''s eyes fell on the settee, catching the stuffed bunny sitting on it.

    Sunny excitedly picked up the stuffed bunny and hugged it in a tight embrace, bringing a slight smile to Aries''s face. Thetter remained standing by the door, pleased to see Sunny in high spirits. But somehow, no matter how she tried to shrug off the anxiousness in her heart, she couldn''t.

    Aries took a step back until she was standing outside the door, looking from her left and then to her right.

    "Something isn''t right," she told herself, acknowledging this fact instead of tossing it in the back of her head. When she decided to check the emperor''s chancery, Aries looked back inside the sitting room.

    "Sunny, I''ll check the emperor''s chancery and see if your grandpa is there." She smiled, concealing the worry in her eyes. "I''ll be back."

    Just as Aries turned and took a step away, she halted as Sunny spoke.

    "He''s not there." Aries slowly looked to her left, her gaze instantly fell on Sunny. The little girl was hugging her stuffed bunny, but her smile had disappeared while looking back at Aries.

    "What did you say?" Aries inquired under her breath, furrowing her brows lest she heard Sunny incorrectly.

    "Grandpa is not in his chancery," Sunny repeated. She then advanced towards the door, still hugging her stuffed bunny. Standing three steps away from Aries, she slowly raised her head.

    "He is in the coven."

    "Coven?" The deep lines in between Aries''s forehead deepened. "What is that?"<sub> </sub>

    "A gathering of vampires and witches."

    "What...?" Aries opened and closed her mouth, rocking her head in understanding. It was no surprise if there was such a gathering since the Haimirich Empire had sheltered non-human beings. She didn''t want to put malice in it, and that exined why the Imperial Pce seemed to be empty at the moment.

    "So, that''s the reason he said he can''t meet me." She heaved a sigh of relief, smiling back at Sunny. "I guess we can''t surprise him if he''s doing something important. Let''s go home --"

    "Grandma, is dying considered important?" asked Sunny, cutting Aries off.

    "Pardon?"

    "Grandma said Grandpa is doing something important. But right now, grandpa is in agony." Sunny tapped her ear mildly. "I can hear his screams and I can smell his blood oozing out of his body."

    Sunny then took a step. "Is that important? Grandma?"

    "What are you..." Aries''s breath hitched as her voice shook. Her pupils had also dted, gulping, witnessing how the innocence in Sunny''s eyes slowly faded out. "Did you... ask me toe in here not because of Mister Moon?"

    "Grandma, you''re like my mama." Sunny blinked. "This is why Tilly and Mister Fabian told Sunny that having a love interest is appalling. You trust their words blindly."

    "Grandpa might die tonight. Permanently. The night council had gotten their hands on a divine weapon that can y a demon like him. A pureblooded Grimsbanne." She then raised her hand and pointed to her left. "If Grandpa dies, Sunny will as well. If you want to save him, he''s there... in the opposite great hall. That''s where I hear his screams."

    Aries''s lips trembled as they parted, but her voice was stuck in her throat. Looking at Sunny''s solemn, round face, she took a step back. There was no way Sunny led her here just to joke around. Moreover, her heart seemed to have known something like this would happen.

    "Abel," was the first that came out of her lips, and without a second hesitation, she sprinted away in the direction Sunny pointed and told her about. She didn''t even think about Sunny as she left; all she could think about was Abel.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>In the opposite great hall of the imperial pce...</strong>

    A thud resonated across the hall as Abelnded on his knees. His hands were still tied by a chain, but this time, those chains stretched to the walls, causing his arms to spread wide open. When he blinked, another drop of blood from the apex of his nosended on the bloody floor.

    Meanwhile, Conan, who was now on the floor, stretched his bloody hands, trying to reach the man kneeling in the middle of the hall. Based on the blood dripping from his head down to this temple and eye, Conan had fought but lost... miserably.

    "You''re Majesty..." he called under his breath as his vision blurred. All he could see was the moonlight shining down on Abel, making Conan see the glint of the chains restraining the already wounded Abel.

    <strong>How did they end up in this state?</strong>

    <strong></strong>A/N: ANNOUNCEMENT!

    <strong>The Tyrant''s Pet has been ted for aic adaptation.</strong> :) I was so overwhelmed by the news that I forgot to write. For everyone who had been supporting The Tyrant''s Pet from the start until now, THANK YOU! I wouldn''t get this opportunity if not for your continuous support.

    I''ll be updating you about theic adaptation once everything went well. :D I''m so excited and overwhelmed and beyond happy. I''m crying.

    THANK YOU, EVERYONE! And cheeersss~!!!

 Chapter 537 Trust Him

    Haimirich''s Imperial main pce had this strangeyout. It was almost like a split. The design of the front part and the back part were nearly identical. Like two identical pces, facing back to back.

    Aries never thought of this before, but now, it somehow made sense.

    The Empire, in a sense, had two faces; two different worlds. The day where the humanse in and out, working throughout. And then once the night fell where all the creatures of the night prowl and gather.

    "Abelбн" Aries whispered in her ragged breathing, sprinting through the hallway, heading to the great hall that was rarely used. She didn''t care if anyone would see her, even though she, fortunately, hadn''t bumped into anyone.

    Good thing she was wearing male clothing. Hence, her mobility wasn''t restrained by those heavy dresses. Aries grabbed her wig while running, taking it off, and letting her braids fall.

    ''Please, please, please,'' she prayed inwardly, grinding her teeth. ''Please let this be just my imagination. Don''t let any harm befall him.''

    Aries picked up her pace, running as fast as possible. The adrenaline pumping through every fiber of her body pushed her to go beyond her limits. The lights depleted in numbers, but the gradual decrease helped her eyes adjust until the only light that was showing her the path was the moonlight from each window.

    Soon, she could see the entrance of the great hall.

    If theyout of this ce in her head was correct, the door she set her eyes to was the private entrance of the great hall. It was the way that important officials, Abel in particr, use if there was a banquet.

    As she got even closer, the hallways got even darker. But her steps didn''t falter. There was this slight relief in her heart for the reason she wasn''t hearing any screams or shouts. Deep in her heart, she prayed things weren''t as bad as she had imagined them to be.

    ''Everything will be fine,'' she told herself, reaching for the door handle and pushing it open without a second hesitation. But just as she got a glimpsed of the well-lit great hall, a hand suddenly grabbed her wrist and pulled her back.

    Aries wasn''t able to react quickly as another hand covered her mouth. The next thing she knew, a person was restraining her from the back, covering her mouth as the person''s back was against the wall.

    "Mhmm!!" she screamed but came out muffled. Her eyes dted, wiggling her body to freedom, but the person''s grip around her was secured.

    "Shhh." A rasped voice came from behind her ear. "You''ll die if you get found out."

    Aries''s breath hitched until her neck turned taut. Moving her eyes to the side, she saw someone from inside the great hall peek his head out. The person had looked to the right, and then to the left, where Aries and the person restraining her were standing on.

    Aries instantly froze at the person''s gaze. They were just right there, beside the door, leaning against the wall. It was impossible that the person checking wouldn''t see them despite this darkness. But the person simply shrugged as if he didn''t see them, and closed the door once more.

    "He didn''t see us because I put up an illusion wall. Hence, all he saw was an empty hallway," exined the man behind her, still covering her mouth. His voice was unfamiliar, so Aries couldn''t guess who could this person be. "I''ll let you go if you promised to calm down. I didn''t expect Sunny to send you here all alone, however, she is desperate. I will exin everything to youбн that is, if you are willing."

    Aries let out a muffled, "yes," while nodding her head profusely.

    "If you are tricking me, then I will have no choice but to knock you out," the man warned under his breath. "I don''t like people who make things even moreplicated."

    Her face contorted, closing her eyes, and a tear rolled down her cheek. She nodded, keeping herself together, reminding herself to not lose her sense of rationality.<sub> </sub>

    The man kept her in his restraint for a full minute and only released her when he was certain Aries wouldn''t do anything rash. As he slowly released her, Aries took a step forward, away from the man, but not too far as she was still within his reach.

    "Whoбн who are you?" her voice was shaky, looking up at the man she had never seen before. She couldn''t see his face properly in this darkness, but she could see his pair of bright red eyes looking back at her.

    "Leon La Crox," said the man monotonously. "Sunny''s uncle."

    Aries''s mouth fell open, recalling that time Abel came into the dining hall with a man. This was that person. The man, Leon La Crox, nced at the door Aries had opened previously.

    "They were holding a coven beyond that door," he exined, setting his sharp eyes back on her. "Did Sunny tell you what the coven is about?"

    Her mouth opened and closed, but her voice was lost within her. So she nodded as an answer.

    "I''m not sure why she sent you here, but you can''t be here."

    "But Abelбн!" Aries trailed off, realizing she raised her voice a bit. She breathed out heavily and continued quietly. "Is he in danger?"

    "The coven''s sole purpose is to end him."

    Her heart clenched as she ground her teeth. "Then there''s more reason for me to go inside."

    "What will you do?" asked Leon, rendering her speechless at his question. "What can a human like you do to help His Majesty?"

    Aries balled her hand into a fist, getting angrier by the second. However, she couldn''t answer him, nor could she argue with him.

    What would she do if she go inside?

    Nothing.

    She lowered her eyes, assuming she was incapable of doing anything to help Abel if he needed one. Just like the man said, she was only human. What could she do? Cry? Beg for mercy?

    "If begging is the only wayбн"

    "You do not understand," Leon remarked coldly, raising his chin, eyes down on her. "Those insides had only one desire, and that is to end him. Even if you cry blood, you can never sway them."

    "Then what can I do?" Aries ground her teeth as her eyes heat up. "I don''t know what they were doing inside. My husband is there. I need to do something; I can''t lose him."

    "Trust him."

 Chapter 538 Grit Her Teeth And Not Make A Sound

    "Trust him."

    Aries raised her brows in disbelief at Leon''s response.

    "If you promised to trust him and not do anything stupid. I''ll grant your request to go inside without being noticed." Leon observed her expression, and even without speaking, it had already devastated her. "If you trust him, you''ll listen to me. Whatever you see inside, don''t shout, don''t make a sound, or do anything stupid. Grit your teeth and trust him. Give me your word."

    Aries clutched her chest, but she was unable to look away from him. "What do I have to expect?"

    "The worst."

    "And you want me to grit my teeth?"

    He nodded once. "Only then will I give you the opportunity of how youбн made his lifeplicated."

    "Me?" Aries let out a dry scoff, but she didn''t have the energy to argue with him. She nced at the door for a minute, pursing her lips into a thin line. When she looked back at the man, Aries nodded in agreement.

    "You have my word," she breathed out heavily. "I won''t do anything stupidбн and will trust him. Unless I know for sure he needs help."

    The two of them looked at each other for another minute. After that, Leon slipped his hand inside his coat. He took out a handkerchief, which she epted in puzzlement.

    "Hold on to that. As long as you hold it, they won''t notice your presence. You can say you''ll be invisible," he exined, making her look up at him. "And stay close to me. It''ll be more effective if you''re within my reach."

    Aries sped the handkerchief tightly and nodded. "Understood."

    "I can only deceive a person''s eyes, not their ears. But since their focus was on His Majesty, they might not notice your footsteps. Still, don''t make the slightest noise if possible."

    "Understood."

    Leon observed her before he turned on his heel. Standing in front of the door, he opened it as silently as possible, instantly hearing a person''s preaches. He walked in casually while Aries took arge gulp before following him.

    The second Aries stepped her foot inside, she ignored everything and everyone around and searched for Abel. It didn''t take that long before her eyes fell on the person chained, kneeling in the middle of the great hall.

    Blood pooled underneath Abel''s body, surrounded by candles. Her heart instantly sank as she held her breath, looking around at the people in the great hall, wearing robes with hoods over their heads.

    Aries covered her mouth as tears instantly pooled in her eyes. Just seeing Abel''s side profile with his hands bound by a chain attached to either side of the wall was enough to break her heart.

    ''Thisбн is far crueler than an execution.'' Aries raised her other hand over the one that was covering her mouth to muffle any noises she would make. ''Whatбн is this coven, Abel?''

    Aries couldn''t move from her spot, eyes fixed on Abel''s figure. He was bleeding from head to toe, almost like he had dipped in a tub full of blood. She had never seen him so weak and defeated. The Abel she knew was untouchable, unpredictably dangerous, and just someone no one would ever imagine ending up in such a state.<sub> </sub>

    This wasn''t Abel, was that she wanted to tell herself. However, her heart, mind, body, and soul knew it was him.

    Hence, she couldn''t help but wonder, howe Abel was chained and was on his knees whilst bleeding heavily? How did thingse down to this situation? What was this coven? And who were these people?

    There were so many questions that came into her head, but she didn''t have a single answer. She couldn''t use her mind to put the pieces all together. She didn''t have the time or leisure. Stopping herself from rushing to him already took all of her energy.

    Aries felt her knees wobble, slowly losing their strength until she was on the floor. She was still covering her mouth, crying as silently as possible.

    ''Trust him, trust him. He must''ve got a n.'' She told herself repeatedly, doing what she thought she would never ever do again. To grit her teeth and not make a sound.

    Meanwhile, Abel kept his head hanging low. His eyes were barely open, staring at the little ripples on the pool of blood underneath him from the droplet of blood dripping from the turfs of his hair.

    The great hall was quiet. It was so quiet he could hear someone''s muffled cries.

    "That little pigбн" he muttered to himself. "... amusing."

    <strong>SPLASH!</strong>

    Abel ground his teeth when blood suddenly squirted from his back as if a sword shed him. But no. No one had approached him, but there was one, among the night councils, who smirked at the fresh wound that appeared on Abel''s back.

    His mouth fell open, breathing through it. Abel blinked weakly, holding onto the chains. When he raised his hand slightly, Abel caught Conan crawling onto the floor. A person was stepping on Conan''s back, keeping thetter still.

    Conan was beaten. A sight Abel hadn''t seen for a long time.

    "Your Majesty."

    Suddenly, a solid voice erupted in the great hall. One of the night councils, Firion Viscardi, stood in front of Abel, blocking thetter''s view of Conan.

    "We had finally found something that could fulfill Your Majesty''s lifelong wish," Firion sneered, causing the curl of his mustache to raise. He then spread his hands open to the side, and another night council, wearing a simr robe, handed him a sword. "We, the night council, had mutually agreed that tonight''s coven is thest covenбн with you as the Emperor."

    Firion wrapped his fingers around the sword''s handle, only to immediately point it at Abel.

    "May you find the rest you had sought, Your Majesty. We had been grateful for the blood that sustained and nurtured us. This is our gift." The side of his lips curled up wickedly as ridicule flickered in his eyes. However, his smirk faded away just as fast as it appeared, narrowing his eyes, noticing the tremble on Abel''s back.

    "Pfft --" Abelughed under his breath, which soon grew into much louder waves of sinisterughter, sending a chill down everyone''s spine.

 Chapter 539 [Bonus Chapter]It Was A Secret

    When Abel recovered fromughing, he cocked his head back, licking the blood around his lips.

    "Since whenбн did you call the shots?" Abel''s canines slowly grew longer into fangs, taking Firion off guard as thetter jumped back, wide-eyed. "I''m pleased you came, Viscardi."

    When everyone noticed Abel''s fangs growing, some of them took a step back. Others held their breaths. During the coven, Abelбн could never use any vampire abilities. That being said, baring his fangs was impossible.

    Abel held on to his chains, and with one slight pull, the chains came off the walls.

    Firion, who was the closest to Abel, took another step back. His eyes went wide, his sword trembling.

    "Howбн is this possible?" Firion''s voice shook, taking another careful step back with his hand raised at Abel. However, before his heel could touch the floor, a hand soaked with nothing but blood grabbed his face.

    The man instantly froze while the heart of those around him sank to their stomach. Aries, who had been crying silently, nearly choked. Her pupil dted, staring at Abel''s back. Unlike moments ago, Abel stood firm, unbothered by the blood dripping from his soaked clothes.

    Her hand that was covering her lips slowly fell, revealing her gaping mouth. She wondered, "what happened?" and she wasn''t the only one who had that question in their head. Every single one of them had the same question.

    <strong>What happened?</strong>

    The side of Abel''s lips curled up into a smirk until his eyes were slightly squinting. Firion grabbed Abel''s arms, his sharp nails digging deep into Abel''s skin. But the deeper his nails sink, the tighter Abel''s grip around Firion''s face.

    "I warned you," Abel dawdled, casting everyone a look. "I started this coven and thus, I will end it myself."

    "Hmm!" Firion wiggled his body and then his feet as it left the ground. His feet swung back and forth, letting out muffled protest. Much to his dismay but not to everyone''s surprise, a pureblooded vampire like Firion Viscardi would never escape Abel''s clutches.

    Seeing their faces change from confidence to fear brought a satisfied smile to Abel''s face. He moved Firion to his right, tilting his head, and gazing at Conan. Thetter was just as equally shocked as everyone.

    "Your Majestyбн" Conan whispered, disbelief filling his wide eyes. "... whatбн is going on?"

    Abel''s smirk stretched even broader. Seeing Conan''s disbelief gaze, Abel''s mind drifted days before the coven.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Days before the covenбн</strong>

    Abel was cupping his cheek, watching Sunny on his right eat. He hadn''t touched his food yet, and the little girl was already on her second. This had been a part of his routine ever since he met this little devil.

    "What an insatiable appetite," he muttered without a change of reaction. Unlike everyone who was beguiled by this little girl''s charms, all he could see was a pig in a body of a three-year-old girl. "This makes me wonder what sort of job your father has to be able to sustain this hunger?"

    "My papa is a painter."

    Abel smiled. "Is he?"

    "Mhm. He was the one who painted the portrait of the king!" her eyes sparkled with pride, looking back at Abel enthusiastically. "And many want his works on their wall! He''s very famous."

    "He definitely got that from his mother," he quipped. "And your mother?"

    "My mama''s job is to love my papa!"

    "What a marvelous job!"

    "And she takes care of Sunny and Sunny''s brother."

    "She seems like a lovelydy."

    "My mama is the prettiest!"

    "No." Abel shook his head. "My wife is."<sub> </sub>

    Sunny frowned but didn''t argue with him. Her eyes still showed irritation, though.

    "You''re a Grimsbanne." Abel changed the subject, batting his eyes ever sozily. "Youбн already know that, do you?"

    Sunny nodded as she chewed, answering after she swallowed down the food. "Tilly told me."

    "What else did she tell you?" he asked, watching Sunny stuff her mouth until her cheeks puffed. He watched her chew it, covering her lips so the food won''t spill out of her mouth. "Have I starved you?"

    Sunny chewed and chewed, making her pinkish cheeks bounce every time. Surprisingly enough, no food was spilled, and she swallowed everything down without choking.

    "Grandpa keeps asking Sunny questions. My mouth misses the food," she exined, unaware of the crumbs around her mouth.

    "So? What else Tilly told you?" he arched a brow, not interested in Sunny''s reasoning why she was stuffing so much food inside her mouth.

    "Many things! Tilly taught us alchemy!"

    "You mean witchcraft?"

    "Mhm!"

    Abel chuckled with his lips closed. "I can''t imagine that girl teaching children witchcraft."

    "Tilly mostly stops midway because she''s toozy to talk," Sunny added in a knowing tone. "So, we usually figure things out on our own."

    "Were you sessful?"

    "Hehe." Sunny grinned until her adorable eyes squinted. "Papa always praises Sunny. He calls Sunny a genius and I call my brother a dumb dumb."

    "Let me guess. Your brother has morals and you don''t?"

    "My brother wants to be the hero. Sunny just wants food, and I don''t want to share. If Sunny is a hero, she has to share." She raised her hand protectively over her te, narrowing her eyes at Abel suspiciously. But thetter simply fluttered his eyshes ever so slowly.

    "Youбн" Abel trailed off before his lips stretched proudly. "... are raised right. Keep it up."

    "Hehe." Sunny giggled. "Tilly always tells Sunny I was being raised right."

    She removed her chubby arms over her te and was about to pick up the cutleries, but she paused. Sunny looked back at Abel, tilting her head to the side.

    "Why are you asking Sunny?" she asked out of in curiosity, finally getting the hint of his genuine interest.

    "I was wonderingбн" Abel removed his chin from his palm, leaning his arms against the edge of the table. "... what sort of abilities do you have?"

    "Eating. Sunny can eat a lot."

    "Can you eat me?" Abel inquired, watching her blink twice. Silence befell their shoulders, staring at each other in silence. His smile remained while Sunny''s innocent front dominated her face.

    Sunny grinned. "Alright." She nodded. "I heard the council got a hold of a divine weapon. I don''t want my grandpa to die. Sunny will be sad!"

    "You should be sad, Glutton. No one should know."

    "Even the Handsome Uncle?"

    "Even Conan." Abel winked, cing a finger in front of his lips. "It''s a secret between the two of us."

 Chapter 540 [Bonus Chapter]A Devil

    The condition of the coven restricted Abel from unleashing his powers. The chains tied around him to immobilize his movements were just added heaviness. For a normal person, those chains couldpletely stop someone''s movements.

    In other words, despite the restraints and the conditions of the coven, Abel was still stronger than an average pureblooded vampire to be able to move around. Still, he had always trusted his gut instincts that tonight''s coven would be different.

    The coven wouldn''t just kill him or attempt to force him into an eternal slumber. The night council had gotten a hold of a divine weapon; a weapon that could highly kill him. Hence, Abel had to find a way to survive since he couldn''t die бк not now that he found someone whom he wanted to cherish for as long as he could.

    That was when Abel found a loophole while watching Sunny eat.

    Abel couldn''t unleash any of his powers, but there was nowhere it says he couldn''t receive any from the outside. Hence, he allowed Sunny to absorb his powers and sent her to the Vandran Residence. That exined his sudden weakness.

    Even though that little girl was even more cunning than she looked, Abel could let her sneakiness pass, since his ns worked anyway. Even so, Abel wasn''t generous enough to share this information for Sunny''s safety, leaving everyone present in the great hall puzzled.

    Abel kept his eye contact with Conan. Thetter was restrained, a condition of the coven since Conan tried to help him. But this great hall had restrained all powerful vampires; Conan was one of them. The more powerful a vampire unleashed their powers, the stronger the spell was.

    "I want to feel badбн" Abel crooned, his eyelids drooping, gaze fixed on Conan. "... however, I can''t, my dearest Conan."

    "Mhm!!!!" Abel snapped his brows. His gaze veered to Firion, who was still within his grip. He nearly forgot about this person.

    "Viscardi, I had always admired your tenacity." He tilted his head to the side, fluttering his eyshes ever so tenderly. The side of his lips curled up, smirking diabolically.

    "Ughh!!"

    "However, I do not appreciate how you bullied my dearest vassal," Abel continued, ignoring the shriek from Firion as Abel''s grip tightened. His expression turned somber, watching blood ooze from the gaps in his fingers while crushing Firion''s head with his bare hand. "The only person who can bully my peopleбн is me."

    Abel''s jaw tightened, listening to the cracking sound of bones as he crushed Firion''s skull slowly and leisurely.

    <strong>CRUSHED!</strong>

    The man''s agonysted for at least a minute before his eyes popped out of their sockets. His broken skull slowly pierced through his scalp. His head was akin to a tomato being squeezed until all of his juices leaked out.

    The only time Firion escaped Abel''s grip was when thetter locked his hand, a few bones and flesh left in his grip. Firion''s bodynded on the floor with a loud thump. The thud of Firion''s body echoed like thunder in everyone''s ears. Their eyes were on the man, watching more blood leak from his severed neck.

    Abel gazed at the body near his feet, showing zero traces of remorse or satisfaction.

    "How many decades had you live?" he muttered with genuine wonder in his voice. "And how long had you been serving me, Abel Grimsbanne, the man who sustained your life? Probably over threeбн five centuries."<sub> </sub>

    He then slowly raised his eyes, scanning the faces of the night council present. "It was baffling that no matter how long it had been, you never learned." Abel opened his hand, letting the flesh that was left in his grip join its owner on the floor.

    "I don''t remember going back on my wordбн ever." His lips curled up in amusement. "There are only two people who can change my mind and persuade me to take back my orders."

    Abel''s eyes fell on Conan. "One is him, and you all know the other person. And your biggest mistake is getting your hands on them."

    "Your Majesty!" Suddenly, a man (a member of the night council), yelled. Abel''s brows rose, moving his gaze to where the source of the voice came from.

    There, on his left, was a man on his knees. But Abel''szy expression remained the same.

    "We are simply following the coven''s tradition!" exined the man in panic. "The night council had only one wish, and that was to fulfill your lifelong wish! Firion had overstepped, but it was all his ns."

    "Are you saying you had no involvement in it?"

    "Apparently, we had no other choice!" said the man in a hurry. "Viscardi had gotten a hold of a divine weapon, and he threatened us to y all of us if we stopped him. We also thought since the coven''s purpose wasбн"

    The man trailed off, clutching his fist against the floor. "I don''t think we are at fault here."

    "I thought you wouldn''t stop your rumblings," Abel smirked, letting out a low chuckle. "Of course. The coven is the night everyone will get pardoned for attempting to kill me. I had let you all do whatever you pleased for years."

    His smirk then disappeared, reced with nothing but coldness. "But thisбн will end tonight." Abel raised his hand, which was soaked with his own blood. He kept his mouth in a tight sh as the red mist slowly ascended and enveloped the great hall.

    The red mist then slowly formed like sharp needles floating in the air. Everyone in the great hall, including Aries''s held their breaths. Her mouth had fallen open, noticing somethinging out of Abel''s head.

    Her breath then hitched as horns emerged from his head. But what she had noticed was that his other horn was cut, the other one was perfectly fine with a very sharp tip.

    A devil. A real one.

    A voice whispered in her head, clutching her chest tightly. She couldn''t look away from him, and when he cocked his head back, gazing to his side, Aries caught the horrifying bright red pupils with inked ck sclera. Abel''s fangs were longer while the veins underneath his face turned dark.

    For a moment, she was scared for her own life. She had seen his wings and allowed his fangs to sink deep into her veins. But right now, she couldn''t see Abel. The man out there was a monsterбн about to massacre everyone, and she believed that includes her.

 Chapter 541 The Holder Of The Abyss

    Confusion and fear crawled under Aries''s skin and made their way into her heart. Her knees trembled, and she knew she wouldn''t be able to stand up from the floor she was slumped on. She was too terrified, witnessing another side of Abel unfold right in front of her.

    The chains were still tied around his wrist, nging on the floor and against each other at his every movement. She could see the red mist formed like needles, hovering in the air.

    ''Abelбн'' she whispered, eyes fixed on Abel''s figure. ''бн don''t do this.''

    For reasons Aries couldn''t understand, the dread dominating her heart was forcing her to stop Abel. But before she could even ponder about anything, a hand suddenly grabbed her biceps.

    "We have to go," urged Leon, tugging Aries''s arm.

    Aries shook her head, unable to look away from Abel. "No," she whispered. "He can''t do this."

    "You''ve seen it. He''ll be fine."

    "No." She shook her head once more. "It''s not thatбн" бк it was definitely not that, was what she wanted to shout. She didn''t know exactly for sure why she was speaking such things, but deep in her heart, even though Abel seemed to get the upper hand, there was something inside her telling her to stop Abel from doing this massacre.

    "He can''tбн do this. He''ll regret it."

    Leon frowned, gripping her shoulder even tighter, but not tight enough to hurt her. "I don''t know what you are talking about but бк"

    <strong>"Hell''s Gate." </strong>

    Leon froze as he gazed up, noticing how the red mist thickened. His heart thudded, looking down at the floor and it dyed red.

    "This is bad," he mumbled, pulling Aries by force this time until she was back on her feet. "Let''s go before we get caught up in this."

    "No, no, he can''t do this. This is what they want from him." But no matter how Aries stubbornly argued something she didn''t understand herself, Leon dragged her by the arm. Aries could only clutch his wrist, shaking her head desperately, eyes seeking help.

    "You have to help him," she whispered and yelled, tugging Leon''s arms. The mist continued to thicken, blurring her vision at the person dragging her away. "Abel cannot do this."

    But s, Leon didn''t listen to her. He dragged her away from the private exit where the two of them came from. Just as he reached for the door handle, Leon''s eyes glinted as he stopped. Aries, who was in panic mode, slowly veered her eyes to the person standing behind Leon.

    Despite the thick mist fogging the great hall, Aries caught the bright glint of metal against the side of Leon''s neck. Her breath hitched, clutching Leon''s arms tightly.<sub> </sub>

    "Where do you think you will take her?" came out a voice of a woman. Her voice was low but clear.

    Leon''s eyes sharpened, keeping his eyes at the shut door. He didn''t know how this witch managed to see them, but when his eyes fell on Aries''s clutch, he understood the reason. She dropped the handkerchief.

    "The coven is just starting andбн we''ve been waiting for her." The hood of her cloak still covered the woman''s upper face, but Aries knew she was looking at her. "Youбн Vampire, from the maind, had nothing to do with us. Therefore, I''ll let you go if you want to leave this ce. However, I cannot allow you to take her with you."

    "She has nothing to do with you as well," Leon breathed out, tightening his grip around Aries''s arm.

    "She had everything to do with usбн witches."

    Leon slowly set his eyes on Aries, seeing thetter''s eyes shake as she darted her eyes between him and the person behind them. He secretly tugged Aries''s hand to snap her to the currentpse, so she was prepared if he shoved her outside of here.

    "Let her go," said the woman. "Let the holder of the abyss go."

    The lines between Aries''s forehead deepened, confused and scared at the same time. She had already too many questions in mind and this just added to the mystery she had yet uncovered.

    "Don''t underestimate the vampires from the maind," Leon breathed out, closing his eyes. When he reopened them, a murderous glint flickered across his eyes. "I had met more powerful witches you might never meet in your lifetimeбн" his eyes then settled on Aries. "I will not allow you allбн to take advantage of her just to take down a Grimsbanne."

    As soon as those remarks slipped past his lips, Leon grabbed the door and shoved Aries outside with all his might. Aries winced as shended against the wall outside, but before the real pain set in, the door shut closed with a bang.

    "No," she whispered, her adrenaline giving her enough energy to crawl back to her feet. "Hey!"

    Aries pushed the door open, but to no avail. Her heart thudded, adding more power to force it open. She mmed and kicked the door, not knowing Leon had chanted under his breath before retrieving his hand from it. His other hand dripped with blood as he was grabbing the de to stop it from slicing his neck.

    "Open the door!" Aries mmed the door hurriedly, screaming her lungs out. "Leon! Open the door!"

    Aries tried to push the handle once more, but it only rattled as if someone was blocking it from the other side. Her eyes heat up and her breathing was suspended. She didn''t know the reason she wanted to stop Abel and everyone from killing each other. It was definitely not because she didn''t want blood from shedding; bloodshed was something she was already used to.

    But somehow, she knew she would regret this from happening if she didn''t stop them.

    "Stopбн! Abelбн! You mustn''t бк" Aries ground her teeth as her voice pitched, helplessness dominating her heart. Despite that, she kept pounding on the door until her fist bled. "Pleaseбн stop this now. We can''tбн do this."

 Chapter 542 Cheat Day

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    "Hell''s Gate."

    Abel licked the side of his fangs as the red mist thickened. Despite the fog inside the great hall, he could see very clearly. The corner of his lips stretched even broader, eyes glinting with murderous intent. Everyone around him showed fear. However, they had stopped taking a step back, ready to fight for their life.

    That was the spirit. It would be a shame if they all died without putting up a fight.

    "Your Majesty!" someone from the night council bellowed. "Are you truly nning to end us, the night council, who served you for years?!"

    "What a dumb question." Abelughed with his lips closed, looking around in satisfaction. "The coven was created for one reason, and you all failed to finish the job. Each year, the coven loses its effectiveness and you keep disappointing me."

    His eyes drooped until they were partially closed, hiding his eyes, which were glowing in bright red with inked ck sclera. His veins under his skin had already turned ck as his horn stretched. Hebed his hair with his fingers, brushing it back until he could feel his rough horn in between his fingers.

    "The coven wasn''t supposed to grant me any power, but now that it was brokenбн I have more reasons to stop it." He dropped his hand, looking from his left and then to his right. The night council had brought forth their weapons or their hands were already flexed to cast a spell to stop him.

    From another person''s perspective, if one didn''t know, they would mistake it as a group of people trying to subdue the devil. Technically, that was the truth.

    It was either them or Abel. There was no in-between; there wasn''t a mediator.

    Only one party would walk out of this great hall, and that would definitely be Abel.

    "Open."

    "Ahh!" Just as Abel whispered, "open," someone charged toward him with his sword. And in a blink of an eye, the sword went through the side of Abel''s abdomen through his back. However, Abel simply tilted his head and gazed down at the sword in his body.

    His lips stretched, holding onto the de, raising his eyes up at the person before him. Thetter tried to pull the sword back, but because Abel was holding onto the de, it didn''t budge.

    "Youбн" the person''s voice shook as a sense of dread went up his spine. All he saw was therge grin stered on Abel''s face before Abel grabbed his face, just like how he grabbed Firion before smashing thetter''s skull.

    But instead of smashing the person''s skull, Abel pulled the man closer. Without a second hesitation, Abel sank his fang into the man''s neck, sping the person''s hair to the side while thetter squealed in pain.

    Crackбн

    The man''s spine broke loudly while Abel sucked all his life forces out of him. When he pulled his fangs away, a few of the person''s flesh was taken out. Like a withered fruit, the mannded on Abel''s feet.<sub> </sub>

    Abel spat out the skin and flesh, licking his bloody mouth like a monster.

    "Ohбн how nice," was all he said, drunk with the taste of blood lingering in his cavity. His eyes drooped as it clouded, casting everyone a look like a hungry monster looking at his prey. "It had been a whileбн since I had a feast to maintain my figure. Should I call it a cheat day?"

    Abelughed at his own joke while the rest were harrowed by it. They narrowed their eyes at him, swallowing down the tension building up in their throat.

    This was Abel. The real Abel Grimsbanne. The one everyone had seen and feared.

    Abel breathed out, pulling the sword out of his stomach. He then tossed it to the side, letting the nk of metals echo in everyone''s ears like thunder.

    "Who is next?" he asked, his eyes fastened with excitement and amusement.

    The witches present looked at each other, getting the approval of the high priestess. They all nodded at each other before setting their focus on Abel, chanting the same ancient words to restrain Abel. Meanwhile, the vampires present took a step forward to fight the emperor head-on.

    There was no point in asking for mercy. Abel had warned them and they didn''t listen, confident they would seed in tonight''s coven. They still have to seed, even though Firion and another member of the night council had perished right before their eyes.

    Only if Abel was forced into a forced slumber would they all get real freedom.

    "How enthusiastic бк" Abel arched a brow as he raised a hand, but the chains around his wrist tugged it back. His lips, however, curled up despite the added heaviness the witches had cast upon the chains. "Is that all you can do?"

    Abel ground his teeth and pulled his hand, waving them as if the added heaviness didn''t affect him in the slightest. Yet, the witches didn''t stop chanting solemnly and in unison. The situation, somehow, reminded them of the previous coven, where everyone nearly died. But Abel, at that time, simply walked away midway as he changed his mind, telling them he was in a rush to make love with his lover.

    "How disappointing." His smile faded and in a blink of an eye, he disappeared from his vantage point, standing in front of a night council. The member of the night council''s breath instantly hitched, and he wasn''t even able to grasp the situation or react when Abel pped him using the back of his hand.

    <strong>Squash!</strong>

    The person''s head was squashed like a bug, dispersing in the air, only for his blood to add thickness to the red mist. When his bodynded, blood leaked out of his severed neck, which the floor simply absorbed.

    Seeing this, Conan, who was able to get back to his knees, had his mouth agape. His heart sank to his stomach, watching this side of Abel, he hadn''t seen for a very long time.

    <strong>Berserk.</strong>

    "This is bad," Conan whispered as his hand trembled, holding his sword in panic. "I should stop him."

 Chapter 543 [Bonus Chapter]Welcome To The Coven

    Berserk, or what Conan called it when Abel was entering a state of being conscious but at the same time, not. It was a state where Abel''s cursed blood take charge, killing anyone on sight. Conan didn''t know how Abel broke the chains that bound him to the coven, but even when he knew Abel wanted to put a stop to this coven once and for all, he had to stop Abel.

    Letting Abel do what he pleased was even worse than the coven.

    "Your Majesty!" Conan shouted through his gritted teeth. His eyes were bloodshot, watching Abel cock his head back. Abel was licking the blood on his fingers, eyes falling on Conan from the distance. The side of his lips stretched wickedly.

    "Conanбн" Conan''s breath hitched, a bit taken aback by how Abel recognized him. When he blinked, his heart stopped for a second. His eyes shook, gazing up at the devil standing before him.

    Abel.

    Abel tilted his head from one side to the other. His dark sclera grew darker as the ck veins augmented, covering half of Abel''s face. His eyes were shining bright like fire, scrutinizing Conan in front of him.

    "Conan, have I ever told youбн your blood had always been so enticing?" came out a rasped voice, raising both his hands. His bloody hands were palm-length away from Conan''s cheeks, staring at Conan''s pale face. "Didn''t you adore me, my dearest vassal?"

    Conan''s body shuddered, not in fear, but in panic. He kept his gaze on Abel''s eyes, witnessing how those demonic eyes clouded with nothing but bloodlust. This wasn''t his emperor anymore.

    "Whyбн don''t you live within me? In that case, we''ll be togetherбн forever." Abel''s eyelids drooped dangerously, mouth falling open.

    In a snap of a finger, Abel stretched his hand to grab Conan''s neck.

    <strong>ng!</strong>

    Abel''s brows rose, cocking his head to the side. His eyes bore genuine wonder, gazing at the sheath Conan raised to block his hand. He blinked twice, raising his eyes back to Conan.

    "Your Majesty," called Conan through his gritted teeth. "Lady Aries will be very disappointed if you don''t get a grip."

    "Ariesбн" Abel whispered, tilting his head to the other side. "Rightбн you gave me your word she wouldn''te here. And yet, she was just here."

    Conan''s eyes went huge. "What?"

    "She had seen everything." Abel frowned, wrapping his fingers around the sheath. "I saw the look in her eyes, dearest. Want me to tell you what I saw?"

    He batted his eyes ever so slowly while the sheath cracked in his grip. "A devil. That''s what I sawбн in her eyes."

    <strong>CRACK!</strong>

    Abel opened his fist and allowed the pieces of the scabbard to fall. Meanwhile, Conan was quick to jump back to a safe distance, holding his sword to the side. Conan''s eyes heat up, grinding his teeth. He didn''t have the leisure to negotiate or argue with Abel right now.

    The witches along with the two high priestesses continued to chant, retraining Abel as much as possible. The other members of the night council looked at each other cautiously before setting their eyes on Conan. Conan was one of Abel''s loyal followers, but also, this man, despite opposing the night council and the coven, valued Abel''s life more than anything.

    If this continued, the peace Abel had tried to secure for a long time would go straight to the gutter. Conan wouldn''t allow that, because a massacre was the easiest part. What would happen right after if they allowed Abel to wreak havoc was far more horrifying than anyone could imagine.

    Conan drew a deep breath, releasing it through his mouth. He fixed his posture, back straight, holding his sword forward.<sub> </sub>

    "You promisedбн" he muttered, keeping his eyes on the demon standing before him. "бн you wouldn''t force me to use this cursed blood sustaining my life."

    Abel smiled. "I am not forcing you."

    "You weren''tбн if I just submit. However, Iбн" Conan''s eyes softened, swallowing the frustrating tension building up in his throat. "бн I cannot do that, Your Majesty. I cannot punish you with my death."

    When thest syble slipped out of Conan''s lips, he cast the night council a look. "Tonight''s covenбн will resume." He then looked back at Abel, noticing the blood on Abel''s hands turn ck, producing a dark shroud that was akin to smoke.

    "His Majestyбн will die." Conan''s heart clenched while his grip around his sword trembled. "Protect the witches. I''ll force him back to the magic circle."

    Conan''s eyes glinted with determination. Although he instructed everyone in a quiet voice, they heard him loud and clear. With that being said, vampires walk forth as shields to protect the witches. After all, Conan was the most capable vampire in the empire, aside from Abel.

    If there was one person who could at least stop Abel''s blows without dying, that would be Conan; Abel''s original sword and right-hand man.

    Abelughed in amusement, sensing everyone''s enthusiasm. He spread his arms wide open, the chains around his wrist echoing.

    "Wee to the coven, Conan," he intoned happily, sensing the growing aura Conan had to conceal for centuries. "I never had fun for the longest time!"

    "Me tooбн your бк no, Abel." Conan''s eyes shone brightly as his fangs grew longer, inhaling the pungent scent of blood and death. His emotions slowly heightened, hearing things he didn''t want to hear: Abel''s silent scream.

    "It''s been a while."

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Outside the great hallбн</strong>

    "Open the door!" Aries kept pounding her fist against the door, but even when her knuckles bled, it wouldn''t budge. "Pleaseбн someoneбн"

    Aries bit her bottom lip until the tang of iron filled her mouth. She slowly slid down against the door, but still pounded her fist weakly. Tears had flooded her face, scratching the door when she was left with no choice. She should''ve felt relieved, knowing Abel would be fine without those chains.

    However, she couldn''t even breathe, let alone heave a sigh of relief.

    "Open up," she whispered, raising her eyes at the door that looked like just a thick wall that was impossible to break. "Pleaseбн help me. They''re all going to die."

    Aries ground her teeth, still hadn''t realized where this fear in her heart wasing from. As she tried to pound on the door again, she suddenly heard the faint sound of the flute. She gazed at the window, her lips trembling. The music sounded louder and louder in her ear, making her heart race.

    "No," she whispered, looking back at the door. "Someone is waiting for you to kill each other."

    Aries then mustered every bit of her energy to pound the door open. "Abel!!"

 Chapter 544 [Bonus Chapter]Zodiac

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the forbidden mansion within the inner pceбн</strong>

    "You wouldn''t want to make an enemy against Wrath."

    Sunny was sitting on the armchair near the bed, flinging her legs back and forth. She was hugging her stuffed bunny, rubbing her little fingers against its drooping ears. There wasn''t a single candbra that was lit in the room, but the moonlight filtering through the window was enough for her to see.

    "Sunny is not making an enemy against my grandpa," she exined with an oddbination of an innocent yet decisive voice. She snapped her doe eyes ever so tenderly, setting them on the man on the bed.

    There, a middle-aged man was leaning against the headboard. His arm was resting over his bent knee, his hair falling past his shoulders.

    The man looked at the window. "Stillбн he is being consumed with anger."

    "It''s not Sunny''s fault." Sunny kept her eyes on the window.

    "Didn''t you like her?" the man set his eyes on the little girl. From the outside, Sunny appeared to be a normal toddler who couldn''t swat a fly. But he knew beneath this adorable shell lies a vicious young soul, who would only act for her personal interest.

    "Mhm. I like Grandma."

    "Why did you send her all alone there?" the man inquired immediately. "If Abel is consumed by his own devil, he would kill her. Maleficentбн the holder of the abyss can help the Grimsbanne in many ways. Just like your mother, she is gifted."

    Sunny kept her mouth shut, still swinging her feet back and forth. She slowly looked at the middle-aged man, blinking ever so slowly.

    "She doesn''t know how to use her gift, anyway," came out an answer without a tinge of remorse, not suited for a three-year-old girl to speak. "Sunny doesn''t see any reason for her to live."

    "Youбн are evil."

    "Sunny never said she''s a good girl." She shrugged, leaning back. "Although Sunny thinks she won''t dieбн somehow."

    The man shook his head weakly, peeling his eyes away from the little girl. "You are way too young, and yetбн I cannot read what''s in your head."

    "Sunny''s mind is simple." She shed him the most innocent smile. "It''s either people are worthy or not."

    "Too young to be vicious."

    "That''s why Your Majesty needs to recover quickly, so Sunny doesn''t need to be vicious!"

    The man gazed at his palms. Bitterness pooled in his eyes, repeating the remarks the little girl had spewed insensitively in his head.<sub> </sub>

    "I had always looked after the Grimsbanneбн our family had always looked after them," he breathed out. "You are our family''s curse. I lost my family trying to keep yours intact."

    "You just have to continue doing that," Sunny mumbled, blinking adorably. Meanwhile, the manughed dryly, looking back at the innocent face of the devil.

    This little girl sounded innocent and looked adorable from every angle. However, what wasing out of her mouth was enough to make anyone''s hair raise. There was no doubt Sunny wasn''t just speaking because she was young. She was speaking about the things she understood very well.

    And she wasn''t sorry about anything.

    "What can I expect from a Grimsbanne?" he muttered bitterly. "Ameriaбн your grandmother was like the sunshine of your n. I''m certain if she was still here, this wouldn''t happen."

    "Because if she''s still here, my papa wouldn''t meet my mama." Sunny''s smile slowly faded. "You are making Sunny upset."

    "I shouldn''t have let any of the Grimsbanne leave the maind," the man continued, ignoring Sunny''s remarks. "Even if I had to give up my lifeбн I shouldn''t have allowed it. I had already sacrificed my role as the father to my children, and they despised me. I should''ve kept my promised and fulfilled my duty as the mediator between the vampires and your n."

    Sunny kept her eyes on the middle-aged man with a poker face. "Your Majesty, even if you regret it now, everything already happened. You and Iбн are alone in my grandpa''s territory because you couldn''t keep those Bathorys'' at bay. Youбн failed."

    She then jumped out of the chair, hugging the stuffed bunny. Sunny stood beside the bed, eyes at the man on the bed.

    "You''re lucky you''re the king and Sunny promised Tilly to help her friend," she continued in a solemn tone. "Sunny forgives His Majesty, even if he tried to harm Sunny."

    Her lips stretched, but it didn''t reach her eyes. "Do you know why I sent my grandmama all alone?"

    The man''s brows rose, staring at the little girl''s smile. Her smile alone was enough to send a chill down his spine, knowing that smile wasn''t as innocent as it appeared to be.

    "Because Sunny doesn''t like someone who is weak," she exined in a knowing tone. "It''s either she dies with Grandpa''s hand, or she stops my grandpa. If she managed to do thetter, only then Sunny will ept her as part of the family."

    The little girl giggled, stopping when she heard the faint sound of the flute. She gazed at the window, keeping her subtle smile.

    "Oh, no! Guests from the maind are here!" she announced, smiling from ear to ear until her eyes were squinting. "Sunny thinks it''s too early for them toe. I promised my pretty grandma not to cause trouble until shees."

    Sunny happily turned on her heel, skipping her steps towards the gaping door. Her steps stopped after five steps, looking back at the bed. However, unlike earlier, where the man was sitting against the headboard, he was lying down like how he had been for the past several months.

    "There''s also one condition." Her white teeth glinted. "If she survives the night out of pure luck, Sunny will reconsider. Sunny believes in the divine Zodiac. My Grandma might turn out even more interesting than holding the key of the abyss!"

    With that being said, Sunny resumed, skipping her steps away. As she crossed the threshold, the finger of the man lying on the bed flinched.

 Chapter 545 Not The Right Time To Complain

    Conan gnashed his teeth, picking up his speed, and swinging his sword towards Abel. Thetter was using a whish made of blood. All Abel had been doing was flicking his fingers to block Conan''s attack whilstughing excitedly.

    Along with Abel''s echoingughter, as if he was having the time of his life, were the piercing noises of the red whish and the des of Conan''s sword. Everyone, although capable, could hardly follow Conan and Abel''s movements.

    It was as though the two of them were skipping time and spaces, disappearing from an area only to reappear at the other end of the great hall. The only indicator that there was a fight was the shing of auras and the red sparks shing before their eyes.

    The witches kept chanting under their breath while the vampires, who would sometimes block lost attacks or shock waves, couldn''t drop their guard. Despite keeping their guards up, they couldn''t help but be amazed at the art of the duel unfolding right before their eyes.

    Abel was amazing as he was. Everyone already knew that. Right now, the witches would sometimes help Conan, targeting Abel''s chains, since putting a curse on an already cursed being such as Abel was ineffective. And yet, Abel had forced the witches to wonder if they were even helping.

    Abel was unbothered at all!

    Aside from the emperor, what truly amazed everyone was Conan. Most of them had heard about the vicious right-hand man of the emperor. The man, who had turned away from his royalty duties to be someone else''s follower.

    But not many of them had witnessed Conan ever holding his sword. In fact, not a single one of them had felt Conan ever pulling an aura. So this was new for everyone. They heard rumors, and Isaiah, who was most in contact with the night council, had always warned them about Conan.

    They gave it the benefit of the doubt, but now that they were witnessing how Conan matched Abel, they could only watch, cked jaw.

    Stillбн one fact remained.

    Abel was still ying. The sound of his sinister waves ofughter echoing across the great hall was the proof.

    "What a monster," a member of the night council mumbled, only to hold his breath when Abel suddenly appeared right before his eyes. His eyes dted, seeing a pair of bright red and ck eyes sizing him up without blinking.

    "You бк your Ma бк"

    Boogsh!

    Abel jumped back when Conan flew down with his sword''s sharp tip aiming down. Conan''s sword pierced through the floor,nding in between Abel and the member of the night council.

    "Get a grip!" yelled Conan through his gritted teeth, snapping the member of the night council back to the currentpse.

    "Uhбн"

    "Tch! Useless!" Conan bellowed in irritation, pulling up his sword, and standing straight. His back was facing the night council, facing Abel squarely. "The next time you lowered your guards, I''m not saving your head."

    "Ye бк yes. Apologies."

    Conan clicked his tongue once again, eyes glinting at Abel. Thetter had stood in the middle of the great hall, grinning from ear to ear until his bloody teeth were visible. There was still fresh blood stuck in between Abel''s teeth; a sight that would turn anyone''s stomach.

    "Conan, Conan, Conan." Abel pped yfully, gazing at Conan, and then those standing behind him. "Why are you siding with them, my dearest? Aren''t we friends?"

    Conan''s jaw tightened before he yelled. "Damn you, Isaiah! I will kill you once you step foot inside this ce!"

    "Haha! Oh, dear!" Abelughed.<sub> </sub>

    "It''s his fault," Conan growled, gnashing his teeth. He gripped his sword, eyes bloodshot. "If he''s here, I wouldn''t have to do all this! Why do you hate me so much I can''t even get a day''s rest?!"

    Conanined at the top of his lungs. "I already do the paperwork! And now, I even have to fight! I hate you!"

    "How sweet." Abel burst out inughter, bringing a ton of question marks into everyone''s speech bubble.

    Was Conan sure toin right now?

    "Damn it!" Conan ground his teeth, ring daggers at Abel. He didn''t know what time it was or how long they still have before the coven ends. But what he knew was that Abel wasn''t getting any better.

    "Good lord!" he huffed, rposing himself by shaking his head once. "I will surely ask Lady Aries to punish you бк"

    "Will she, though?" Conan''s breath hitched because, in a blink of an eye, Abel just appeared right in front of him. More than the fright of dying, Conan was horrified at the scary sight of his emperor.

    ng!

    Despite being caught off guard, Conan was able to block Abel''s attack бк thanks to his fast reflexes. His sword rattled against Abel''s sharp nails.

    "I will tell Lady Aries you bullied me," Conan grumbled through his gritted teeth, sounding like childish banter. But Conan had to keep reminding Abel about Aries until the former could get a grip. "I hope she leaves you."

    Abel''s smile faded, cocking his head to the side. "Did you justбн curse me?"

    "I simply wished her happiness. Obviously, she wouldn''t attain that with you."

    "Hahбн" Abel let out a dryugh, staring at Conan in silence. To everyone''s surprise, he let Conan''s sword go, while Conan held it still between them.

    "Your Majesty, I know you want to end the coven once and for all. However, you didn''t tell me your only way to do that is to allow your demon to take charge," Conan continued under his breath, but his voice, although quiet, it was firm. "I am disappointed in you."

    Abel blinked ever so slowly, taking a step back, eyes on Conan. Without a word, he turned on his heel, walking away. Some of them looked at each other, while others continued on chanting indistinctnguage much faster.

    "Was he conceding?" someone whispered behind Conan, but Conan''s expression was far away from relief.

    "Distance yourself," Conan instructed solemnly, keeping his eyes on Abel. "He is not conceding. He was angry."

    His eyes glinted, and they soon understood what Conan meant. Abel stopped right next to Firion''s body, picking up the dead''s sword.

    <o>,m "This is a divine weapon?" Abel twisted his wrist while checking the sword. He could feel the scorching heat under his palm, rocking his head, before facing Conan once more. "This diving weaponбн can y demons, am I correct?"</o>

    The side of his lips curled up into an amused smirk, fixing his eyes at Conan. "My dearest vassal, youбн had been an excellentpany until now. I guess it''s time for you to restбн forever."

    As soon as those words slipped past Abel''s lips, he disappeared from his vantage point. The next thing everyone heard was the heavy sh of metals erupting in the air.

 Chapter 546 A Misunderstanding Or Not?

    While Abel and Conan were engaged in an intense duel, showcasing how the coven was supposed to be, another duel was happening in the same great hall. But unlike the two, Leon and the witch, who wasing for Aries, had been at each other''s throats.

    The witch had her sword against the side of Leon''s neck, while thetter''s sharp nails were an inch away from the woman''s chest. One wrong move and someone''s head might roll over or someone''s heart would be ripped out.

    The two of them looked at each other, both of them concealing their presence. Hence, despite meeting a stalemate, no one had noticed them.

    "Leave her alone," Leon warned, eyes ring. "His Majesty and His Highness were already putting justice into your beloved coven. Leave the woman alone."

    "She isn''t just a woman," argued the witch firmly. "This coven shouldn''t end with her knowing nothing. We, the witches, wouldn''t allow that demon to nurture her, only to take advantage of her."

    Leon''s mouth was kept into a tight sh, unable to rebut the woman''s argument. He had only arrived in the empire a few days ago. Hence, he barely had the general details of what was going on and the true nature of Aries and Abel''s rtionship.

    For him, Abel wasn''t the type who could genuinely care about someone else. Unless he would benefit from it. That was the Abel he had heard about from the maind. Actually, that was the nature of the Grimsbanne n.

    "Bring this up once the coven ends," was all he could tell her, but the witchughed sarcastically.

    "Do you think we, the night council, hadn''t raised our concerns regarding her?" the woman''s eyes glinted. "She''s the holder of Maleficent. Therefore, she deserves a seat in the night council. Why do you think she hadn''t known about it until now?"

    The witch smirked. "Yes. He doesn''t want her to know more than she had already known." Ridicule filled the woman''s eyes before her expression turned solemn.

    "I''ll ask you onest time," she continued. "Get out of my way and let her in. Sheбн my sister deserves to know how rotten the man she married was."

    Leon''s expression turned stiff as well, blinking ever so tenderly. "Iбн" he trailed off as he breathed out heavily. When he raised his eyes at her once again, determination flickered across his eyes.

    "... can''t."

    The woman gnashed her teeth, mustering all the energy she could muster to swing the sword against Leon''s neck. Thetter had also stretched his hand forth until the tip of his sharp nails pierced the fabric of her cloak, sinking his nails skin deep.

    However, just as blood oozed from the side of his neck with the shallow wound, and from her chest, where her heart was located, both of them stopped. Leon looked back at the door where he shoved Aries away; the witch also gazed at the shut door.

    The two of them hadn''t discovered from the chilling aura from the other side of the door when a loud BAM erupted in the air. They naturally set their eyes to the center of the great hall, seeing thick smoke ascend. All they could see was a silhouette of a person standing up in the middle of it.

    "What happened?" Leon muttered in disbelief. Even though all they could see was a silhouette, the aura of the person was enough for them to recognize who it was.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>Conan.</strong>

    Everyone stared at the thick smoke thin out with bated breaths. Even Leon and the witch had set aside their private dispute, staring in the same direction, wide-eyed. When everyone could finally see through the smoke, most of them gasped.

    Conan stood still, holding a sword down. Under his foot was Abel, stepping on thetter''s back. Conan was hanging his head low, making it difficult to see what sort of expression he was sporting. Only when he raised his head did everyone see his somber front.

    "Drag him back to the magic circle," was all that Conan said, taking his foot out of Abel. Yet, no one reacted immediately, looking at him in awe.

    "Impossible," Leon whispered, holding his breath in disbelief. He didn''t see what exactly happened, but he was certain it was impossible for Conan to take down Abel so easily. His eyes fell on Abel, and thetter''s face was facing the cracked ground.

    Everyone was just as baffled as Leon. Even if they were watching, everyone was certain Abel had the upper hand. Up until a second ago, Abel was simply toying with Conan and Conan could barely keep up.

    But then, in a blink of an eye, both of them (Conan and Abel) crashed on the floor. No one knew what exactly happened, but for them, they concluded it was Conan simply waiting for the perfect time to strike.

    They weren''t wrong, though, but also not entirely correct. What happened? Only Conan knew, but he didn''t have the spare energy to detail everything.

    "Should I drag him myself?" Conan''s voice pitched, snapping everyone to the currentpse. He kicked the divine weapon away, ring daggers at everyone. "Drag him back to the magic circle and contain him. However, if any of you tried to inflict more harm on His Majesty, Iбн will kill you all myself."

    Conan''s voice shook, warning everyone lest they still proceed in forcing Abel to a forced slumber. Right now, Abel could no longer protect himself or retaliate.

    The vampires around looked at each other and nodded, jogging toward Conan''s direction. When they stood a few steps away from Abel''s body, they cast Conan a hesitant look.

    "He''s still conscious," Conan breathed out. "But he wouldn''t be able to lift a finger. Don''t let him rest and drag him inside the magic circle."

    "Ye бк yes."

    With that being said, two members of the night council hesitatingly lifted Abel by the shoulder. Abel didn''t retaliate, getting dragged like a withered leaf, hanging his head low.

    Little did everyone know, Aries had managed to enter and saw them dragging Abel. His knees were grazing the floor, head hanging low. In her eyes, Abel looked pretty much dead. When she gazed in the direction they were dragging Abel, her heart dropped to her stomach.

    "Let him go," she whispered, balling her hand into a fist, misunderstanding everything from that very secondбн or maybe not.

 Chapter 547 Let Him Go

    <strong>Moments before the present timeбн</strong>

    "Open the doorбн" Aries scratched her bleeding fingertips against the door after pounding her fist against it repeatedly. "Abelбн"

    Tears had been blurring her vision, helplessness dominating her heart. Her face contorted as she suppressed the cry tempting to escape her mouth.

    Aries had always known the Haimirich Empire and Abel were different. She had always known her life would be different, but she was naive to think it would be easy if she just opened her heart. Obviously, it was easier said than done.

    What could a human like her do? Before those vampires and other creatures, what could she do to protect Abel? She could only cry and beg pathetically but to no avail.

    "Pleaseбн" she hung her head low, bumping her forehead against the door mildly. "Don''t hurt him anymore. He did nothing wrong." бк or rather, Abel had lived a sinful life, but he was now correcting it now. That may not be enough, but they shouldn''t take that chance away from him.

    Aries begged and cried, trying to push the door open. As she did so, something suddenly crossed her head.

    Maleficent.

    Everything regarding that name, Maleficent, surged in her head. And by everything, all the little details she collected from those who knew one or two things about her.

    <strong>"It''ll be a shame if you let it lie dormant,"</strong> were the words that made an impression on her, that Sunny hadmented weeks ago.

    "Can Iбн" Aries huped, wiping her tears with the back of her hands. She rposed herself, facing the shut door, still on her knees. She held her head, recalling everything she could remember.

    If what they told her was correct, and the power of this powerful witch was inside her, she could do something, right? But how?

    "I don''t know how," came out a shaking voice full of fear, confusion, and urgency.

    Just then, Aries recalled the body paint on her body for a very long time. Back in the Maganti Empire, Aries had also a fair amount of time to retouch the body paint on her body whenever they were fading.

    She remembered them.

    "I can tryбн right?" her lips trembled, gazing at the door in this darkness. Her eyes already adjusted to theck of light, raising her bleeding fingers.

    Aries used her blood, marking the door with the ''arts'' she remembered. Good thing they weren''tplicated to draw. But as she did so, Aries had to scratch her fingertips whenever she would run out of ink (blood.)

    She bit the tip of her index, peeling just a bit of her skin. The slight affliction didn''t hinder her from continuing in the drawing. Little did she know, what she was creating was a moreplex magic circle, and it wasn''t as easy as drawing something and making a wish.

    Untilбн her memories started to blur, adding things she wasn''t supposed to add.

    "Please let this work," she prayed deep in her heart, not knowing what she was doing didn''t need the help of any god. It was an act of sphemy, deserving divine punishment.

    "Open!" Aries opened the door, only for it to rattle. She clenched her teeth, ring daggers at it. "Come on, please open the door!"

    Aries held onto the handle, trying to push it open. Her other hand бк the one that was bleeding heavily бк was pounding against the door. Blood smeared against the magic circle she had created, glowing faintly that she didn''t even notice.

    "Please open the бк"<sub> </sub>

    "Hahaha!"

    Her breath hitched as she froze, looking around in this hallway to see if someone was there. Her heart thudded, breaking out in a cold sweat. Just now, she heard a woman''s waves of diabolicalughter just right behind herбн or maybe in her head.

    Theughter was distinct and loud; it wasn''t something she would mistake foring from a distance. But when Aries shook her head, paying no attention to it, she pushed the door handle.

    Much to her surprise, her brows rose as the door creaked. She gazed at the ajar door, still holding the door handle.

    Aries didn''t know how it suddenly opened, but that didn''t matter at the moment. When she realized she could enter, she pushed it open and ran inside. The second she went in, all she saw were people dragging Abel by the shoulders. His knees were still on the floor, head hanging low.

    Her heart instantly sank as her mouth fell open. Right then and there, even when she saw a devil in Abel minutes ago, her heart ached at the sight of him. Abel was the love of her life, her husband, her partner, and everything.

    She was his world, and he was her lifeline.

    Aries had promised Abel she would protect herself so he would have a safe ce to rest. He had protected his world, and his world had to do the same for him.

    "Let him go," she whispered. Her voice was quiet and low, but it was enough to get the attention of those around her.

    Leon and the witch instantly turned their attention to Aries. Their nk and wide eyes went huge once again. Both of them instinctively nced at the door, and much to their surprise, it was disintegrated into a pile of ashes.

    "Youбн" Leon called under his breath, watching Aries ball her hands, her eyes fixed on Abel.

    Meanwhile, Conan held his breath as he gazed at Aries. He didn''t know if she had noticed him already since her eyes were on Abel, and those holding His Majesty.

    "What are youбн" he trailed off, sensing this dark shrouding out of her back. "Lady Ariesбн youбн"

    "I said, let him go!!" Aries''s voice pitched, making others cover their ears in pain. Aries took a step forward, grinding her teeth while saying, "Let him go!"

    Without thinking twice, Leon and the other witch jumped to stop Aries from approaching after noticing Conan''s eyes glow in bright red. For Leon, he only understood the murderous intent in Conan''s aura. But for the witch, she had only sensed such a repulsive reaction from Conan whenever he was with Isaiah.

    Holding Aries by both her arms, Aries gazed at her right and left. "What are you doing?" she ground her teeth, wiggling her arms to freedom, but the two held onto her tightly.

    "Let me go!" she harrumphed and then looked in Abel''s direction. "Let him go!"

    "Drag him to the magic circle," Conan ordered firmly, eyes fixed on Aries. "Now!"

    Those who were holding Abel nced at Conan before executing the order.

    "I said!!! Let him go!" Her voice echoed across the great hall. As her voice continued to echo, a tiny sh appeared across Conan''s cheek.

    Blood instantly dripped from Conan''s cheek before he heard a faint thud. When he moved his eyes to where it came from, all he saw was the severed finger of the member of the council бк the one who was holding Abel бк on the floor. The one who had lost a finger was just as shocked as everyone, only to snap back to the currentpse when his arms bled heavily when they heard another, "let him go," from Aries, followed by a loud cough.

 Chapter 548 Allow Me To Introduce Myself

    "Let him бк cough!" Aries coughed, feeling her throat get scratched after screaming her lungs out. However, she didn''t realize how serious the pain in her throat was until blood came out of her lips. Yet, she was stubborn, taking their surprise to her advantage.

    Aries pulled her arms from Leon and the other person''s grip with all her might. She didn''t waste a second as she stomped her feet towards Abel.

    "Stop," she muttered with a shaking voice, wiping the blood from her lips with the back of her hand. "Enough ying and let him go бк cough!"

    Aries stopped for a moment to cough, covering her mouth with her hand. But her eyes were fixed on the person holding Abel, ignoring the blood dripping from them.

    "He''s not a bad person. Give him some ck," she continued, dragging her feet forward. However, just when she was several feet away from them, her knees suddenly wobbled. They turned soft as tofu, causing her to fall to her knees.

    "Ah!" she yelled, shocked herself, as he lowered her eyes to her feet. She tried moving them but to no avail. Her body wasn''t listening to her.

    This time, Conan finally snapped back from his trance. His wide eyes were shaking, and with a trembling voice, he hissed. "Drag him to the magic circle."

    "Ughбн" the member of the night council, who finally came to his senses, groaned in pain. The shes across his arms caused him to bleed heavily, gazing at Conan. When his eyes caught the seriousness in Conan''s countenance, he didn''t have the time toin.

    They must bring Abel to the magic circle, no matter what. That was what Conan''s eyes were telling them.

    Seeing that the people dragging Abel resumed, Aries''s breath hitched.

    "Stop!" she screamed once more, shunning the deep pain in her throat. Blood once again overflowed her mouth, but she didn''t care. She clutched her hands against the floor, punching her legs, but they seemed to be paralyzed. It was as though a boulder was ced over her feet, immobilizing her.

    "Lady Aries!" Conan shouted from his chest, forcing her to look in his direction. "Stop it this instance!"

    "Sir Conan! What do you think you''re doing to my husband?" Aries barked back, eyes zing angrily. "Let him go, right now!"

    Another shallow sh appeared on Conan''s shoulder, but he ignored it. "Youбн do you have any notion of what you are doing?!"

    "I don''t care! Get your hands off of him!" Aries screamed, not hearing anything anymore. She kept screaming despite destroying her vocal cords, shaking her head, eyes shut.

    "Youбн!" Conan''s breath hitched, grinding his teeth, clutching his sword until it trembled. If this was someone else, he would''ve silenced her already. But Ariesбн was his sister from another mother. He couldn''t hurt her, let alone kill her.

    Still, Aries was unknowingly putting herself and everyone in danger.

    "Conan." Suddenly, Conan froze and those dragging Abel as the emperor''s exhausted voice caressed their ears. Despite the echoing screams from Aries, his voice sounded clear.<sub> </sub>

    "Don''t hurt her." Abel was still hanging his head low, barely keeping his eyes open. Even though he couldn''t see her, he could feel Aries''s pain and desperation. But s, he had no energy to stand. If these people weren''t holding him, he would copse.

    "Drag her out of here," he continued under his breath. "She''ll kill herself if she speaks another word."

    Conan ground his teeth as his eyes darkened. However, just as he decided to knock Aries unconscious even if this would hurt her a bit, his breath hitched at the figure he caught behind Aries.

    "Let him бк" the rest of Aries''s words were muffled when a hand suddenly covered her mouth. Her pupils instantly went wide, gazing at the person squatting beside her.

    "One more word, and you''ll lose your tongue," came out a voice of a woman, uncovering the hood over her head. tinum gold glints under the candbras when she took off her hood, matched with the glint of her pair of crimson eyes. Her facial features were sharp бк almost like Abel''s.

    "If you speak one more time, then you''ll destroy your throat. If you don''t stop using that damn mouth of yours, it will disintegrate everything inside that neck, severing it from the inside," the woman continued, ignoring everyone''s attention, keeping her sharp,zy eyes on Aries. "Trust me. I had slit my throat at least twenty times, stabbed myself five times, and hung myself ten times. You won''t get numbed by the pain, it just keeps getting worse."

    Aries held her breath, looking back at this new face without blinking. For some reason, this woman looked familiar. No, her voice sounded familiar. But right now, Aries didn''t have the leisure to wonder where she met this person.

    The woman''s lips curled up into a smirk. "I think I saw you somewhereбн ah, did I perhaps read your fortune?"

    And that rang a bell in Aries''s head, but it seemed the woman couldn''t recall that time. That only proved this woman had done more fortune-telling before appearing here.

    "You bought me enough time, though. I like you." The woman smiled at Aries, cing a finger in front of her lips. "Shut up now, alright?"

    Aries whimpered, staring at the woman''s bright smile. Should she listen to her? Aries didn''t even know if this woman was a friend or a foe. Actually, everyone in this ce was like enemies. Even Conan. After all, how could Conan hurt Abel if he was truly a friend? Everyone was a traitor and she could trust no one in here.

    "Mhmбн you don''t trust me. But well, that''s understandable." The woman unhesitatingly removed her hand from Aries''s mouth. "I''m not asking you a favor. I''m ordering you to shut up."

    Aries''s mouth parted, but much to her surprise, her voice wouldn''te out. She felt her throat, only for her heart to sink, catching the woman''s smirk.

    "Don''t worry. I just took your voice until you calmed down." The woman chuckled, cing her hand on her legs, and pushing herself up. When she looked ahead, her eyes fell on Abel and those holding his shoulders, and then on Conan, before looking around.

    She pped. "What a heartwarming weing party!" she intoned happily, ying with her hand as she curtsied.

    p "Allow me to introduce myself." She smiled, straightening her back, chin raised. "Though I fear you''ve heard my name."</anda>

    She spread her arms wide open and spoke louder. "Have you heard about the monster tale of Marse?"

 Chapter 549 [Bonus Chapter]Was Aries Actually Dumb?

    "Have you heard about the monster tale of Marse?"

    Conan didn''t think twice and raised his sword, only to hear a piercing pang as the tip of his sword''s de made contact on the floor while a foot stepped on it. His pupils dted, raising his eyes up at the woman before him.

    "How dare you attempt to raise your sword at a delicatedy such as myself?" his heart thudded, and the next thing he saw was a hand approaching him. Conan couldn''t react quickly as he stood stiff, shocking everyone since he was able to catch up to all Abel''s movements, but stood frozen in front of this woman.

    However, the woman''s hand stopped inches from Conan''s face. He and the woman moved their gaze at the overweight girl clinging to the woman''s wrist. Her little body swinging mildly; her back facing Conan, her eyes on the woman named Marse.

    Seeing this, Leon, who was standing near Aries, yelled, "Sunny!" he didn''t know how and when Sunny came in here. Not just him, but everyone didn''t even sense the little girl''s presence until she jumped into the scene and clung to Marse''s wrist.

    "Sunny likes Handsome Uncle. Pretty Grandma shouldn''t harm him!" came out an adorable voice, unbothered by the blood tainting the floor and the bodies lying without their heads around.

    The woman, Marse, raised her brows. She gazed at Sunny, tilting her head, before amusement fastened in her eyes.

    "You lying pigбн" Marse''s lips stretched from ear to ear, making everyone hair''s raise. "I finally found you."

    "Pretty Grandma, you look ugly now."

    "You said they were on the maind."

    "Everyone was on the maind." Sunny frowned. "Sunny didn''t lie."

    Marseughed, eyes fixed on Sunny. It was already baffling how Sunny came into the scene unnoticed, but it was even more puzzling how Marse could keep her arm raised despite having a three-year-old fatty clinging onto her wrist.

    "I had to slit my throat and restart my hell of life because of you. But well, I had lost my virginity, so it wasn''t that bad of an experience." Marse shrugged, swinging her arms from left to right, causing Sunny''s body to swing like a bell.

    "Get off," Marse ordered, only for Sunny to shake her head.

    "This is fun," said Sunny, enjoying how her body swing in the air while holding on to Marse''s wrist.

    "You do understand you''re ruining my grand entrance, right?"

    "Sunny is saving the nightбн"

    "How dare you take the spotlight from me?"

    Sunny blinked while staring at Marse, not speaking a word as they stared at each other. While they were having a momentary silence, everyone, including Aries and Conan, could only stare at the woman with Sunny clinging to her arm like a monkey.

    ''Marseбн'' Aries thought, keeping her eyes at the woman''s back. ''She''s Abel''s sister?''<sub> </sub>

    Conan had the same thought while watching the woman move her arm to shake off Sunny. But the little girl''s grip was no joke, recalling how Abel walked around with a little girl hugging his leg.

    Sunny''s tight grip wasn''t Conan''s focus, though. It was on this woman right before him.

    Conan was well-aware of the Grimsbanne family tree. He knew Abel had three sisters; the oldest daughter of the Grimsbanne had left the maind with a few of her friends, and then the youngest, who was only an infant at that time, also fled from home.

    Conan never saw her, but he heard about that infant, Marse. The person Conan had been looking for before the coven as per Abel''s orders. They never found her, despite searching every nook and cranny, only for her to show up voluntarily.

    "Whatбн are you doing here?" Conan blurted out after an entire minute of full silence, stopping Marse from shaking her arm. Marse snapped her eyes ever so slowly, keeping her foot on top of Conan''s sword.

    "Me?" Marse pointed at herself with a misced innocence in her naturally sharp eyes. "I need to kill someoneбн and there''s only one person who can help me, hopefully."

    Her eyes then fell on Abel, smirking. "Poor you. He would''ve died if not for me. How can you repay my kindness, brother?"

    Abel closed his eyes and breathed out heavily, almost grinding his teeth while sensing Marse''s gaze on his nape.

    Meanwhile, Sunny gazed at Abel and then let go of Marse''s arm,nding safely on the floor. She walked towards Abel, squatting down in front of him.

    "Grandpa, Grandma delivered your powersбн but why didn''t you receive it?" asked Sunny with genuine wonder in her voice. "Sunny chose the perfect way for you to receive it."

    Abel snapped his eyes up weakly, raising his eyes to meet Sunny''s doe eyes. "If I were youбн run. Once I recover from here, I will deliver your head to your parents."

    Sunny frowned as her eyes grew watery. She jumped from her spot and ran away while crying.

    "Grandma~! Grandpa is being mean to Sunny!" she slumped in front of Aries, bawling her eyes out while rubbing one of her eyes.

    Aries, who had yet grasped what was going on, followed her instinct and embraced the little girl. She couldn''t speak right now, stroking Sunny''s back to soothe her, looking up to where Abel, Marse, and Conan were.

    Those three, and even the puzzled night council around, couldn''t help but look back at Aries in dismay. The little girl was obviously pulling out a victim card, and Aries was buying it.

    Was Aries actually dumb? How could she not realize Sunny was a force enough to make anyone''s hair raise?

    "Fortunately, I had witnessed the dumbest thing in the world that this barely makes me cringe." Marse shook her head in disbelief. She then nonchntly removed her foot from Conan''s sword and took a step back. When she raised her chin, her eyes glinted.

    "This covenбн is over. Anyone who wants to continue, then you will have to face me." Her smile disappeared, moving her eyes around to everyone. "I''m warning you, I am not as kind as him. I am not bound in this coven and killing you allбн is a piece of cake. Anyone who had an objection,e forth."

 Chapter 550 [Bonus Chapter]

    "I''m warning you, I am not as kind as him. I am not bound in this coven and killing you all... is a piece of cake. Anyone who had an objection,e forth."

    Silence followed Marse''s remarks as the night council looked at each other. Having to deal with Abel was already troublesome, but having two more Grimsbanne to deal with plus Aries, getting to leave this ce in one piece was already a miracle.

    "Good." Marse nodded in satisfaction, turning on her heel, and facing Abel. She snapped her eyes, darting her eyes between the two night councils who were holding Abel still.

    Marse raised a hand, moving her fingers as if she was controlling something on her fingertips. In a blink of an eye, the chains binding Abel disappeared without a trace, and then everyone felt the spell of the coven slowly disappear.

    Everyone except Aries, who didn''t know or feel the spirit of the coven, held their breaths.

    "No more pathetic spells like this," Marse remarked with azy voice, marching towards Abel, and squatting down in front of him. She rested her arms over her knees. "I stopped the coven just as you pleased, brother. Now, how will you repay this kindness?"

    Abel slowly raised his eyes, revealing his weak countenance. He looked at her straight in the eye, narrowing his eyes the longer he stared.

    "Who are you?" he asked, puzzlement apparent in his voice.

    "My brother, you are hurting your baby sister''s feelings."

    The side of Abel''s lips stretched in amusement. "Not that face, but the eyes that were mirroring me," he rified. "Who are you?"

    Marse went silent, running her tongue across her inner cheek. Her lips then stretched, simpering.

    "It seemed you had understood my dilemma, brother," she dawdled. "Now, did I waste my time helping you? Or did Ie to the right person?"

    "I can''t help you."

    "Why? Don''t tell me it''s a familial thing."

    "I don''t like you, Marse." Abel breathed out, flexing his fingers to check if he had enough strength to stand on his own. He was still too weak, barely closing his fist. "As I''ve said, if I see you, I''ll kill you before you do. But it seemed things turned out to be interesting on your end."

    His brows rose,zily fluttering his eyshes. "It''s not that I don''t want to help you, but as you can see, I had lived aplicated life. You can take this coven, for instance."

    "You can help me if you''re willing." Marse arched a brow, tipping her head in Aries''s direction. "That woman who was crying tears of blood for you."

    "She''s not in the negotiation."

    "Are you sure?" she cocked her head to the side. "I don''t think you can stop her from getting herself involved after tonight."

    Marse then poked the tip of his nose yfully. "A word of advice, brother, don''t decide for others. You are doing more damage than you can imagine." She smirked and added, "trust me. I''ve been there, and I''ve done that."

    She then nted her hand on her thigh, pushing herself up. Her eyes fell on Abel, but thetter didn''t raise his head, as he didn''t want to look up at her.<sub> </sub>

    "That advice is a probono." Marse drew a breath and looked around before setting her gaze on Conan. "Won''t you all leave?"

    "The coven is not yet over."

    "When I said it''s over, it''s over."

    "No one leaves this ce until the crack of dawn."

    She arched a brow and then rocked her head in understanding. "Very well, I''ll leave first. I hope you do not mind if I upy one room."

    Marse flipped her golden hairs, sauntering off. She walked in Aries and Sunny''s direction, stopping in front of them. Aries was still embracing Sunny, and thetter snuck a peek at her.

    "Come on, Fatty. Enough with your drama," she said, resuming in her steps after sizing up Aries''s face. "Show me around. I might forgive you if your services are nice."

    Sunny frowned, hesitatingly drawing her body from Aries. Thetter looked back at Sunny with wide eyes, only to see Sunny sh a smile.

    "Grandma, you''re lucky. Sunny likes you even more now," remarked the little girl as she stood up in front of Aries. "Pretty Grandma~ Sunny will share choctes so don''t chop chop Sunny, alright?!"

    As Sunny skipped her steps to follow Marse, she stopped and gazed at Leon. Her lips stretched from ear to ear before continuing on her steps.

    Leon let out a deep exhale. "I knew it she''s nning something," whispered the man, marching away to follow Sunny.

    Those who weren''t bound by the coven could leave the great hall, and they did, leaving everyone inside baffled and confused. Aries''s eyes were nk, staring in the direction where Marse, Sunny, and Leon left. When she returned to her senses, she mustered every bit of her energy to stand.

    This time, to her surprise, she was able to stand up as if the invisible boulder on her feet was gone. She still couldn''t speak, though. But that didn''t matter as she hurriedly ran towards Abel, slumping down in front of him, eyes bloodshot.

    ''Abel...'' she called, her hands unable to decide where she would touch him. Abel slowly raised his head, smiling subtly, seeing the worry in her eyes.

    "I''m sorry..." was all he said before his eyes slowly closed. His arms that were being held by two of the night council slid as their grip loosened. Fortunately, Aries was quick to react as she caught him, embracing him with his head resting on her shoulder.

    ''You...'' she whimpered, clutching his back and feeling the thickness of the blood on his clothes.

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> everyone, including Conan, kept their eyes on the entrance where Marse left. Conan then looked around, unable to sense the heavy atmosphere the coven would always bring with them. When he gazed back at Aries, who was now hugging Abel, a deep exhale slipped past his lips.

    "It seems the coven had truly ended," Conan muttered, before facing the living night council. "I will summon everyone in a few days. For now, clean this up. Let''s end things here for now."

    He then snapped his eyes on the divine weapon near his vantage point. "I''ll confiscate this cursed thing. I will get to the very bottom of this... and punish those who connived with Viscardi."

    With that being said, everyone looked at each other with a somber front. Tonight''s coven ended early and unexpectedly, but with Marse and Sunny walking in this verynd, the night council had understood it was the start of their nightmare and their fear of having more Grimsbanne gathered in one ce outside of the maind.

 Chapter 551 What An Ominous Pair

    Aries''s sniffs had been echoing along with the crackle of the fire, wiping her tears with the bottom of her palms. She was sitting right next to the bed where Abel was lying unconscious. When they carried Abel to the emperor''s chambers, Aries solely tended and cleaned his body.

    She had never seen him hovering between life and death, and in such a terrible state. Or so what his body appeared to be. It was no different from a person in a critical stage, despite knowing he would wake up as if nothing happened.

    "I hate you," came out a quiet voice, biting her quivering lips, eyes on his face. However, her heart could only feel pain instead of anger. No matter how much she wanted to feel angry, she couldn''t.

    How could she?

    Could she me Abel for creating a gathering solely to kill him? He had always sought death and all those decisions he made in the pastбн were still haunting him to this day. This was the price he was paying for his past mistakes.

    Aries crawled her trembling hand to hold his hand, brushing his knuckles with her thumb.

    "Did Iplicate things for you?" she queried in a quiet voice, squeezing his hand mildly. "Was the coven better in the past, darling?"

    Another tear rolled down her cheek, holding his hand with both her hands. She guided it to her forehead, closing her eyes, sniffing sharply.

    Tonight was a rollercoaster of emotions for her. She felt all sorts of emotions she had always felt. The only difference was that they were heightened emotions to the point she felt out of breath. Things were ten times more dreadful, appalling, and ominous.

    "Godбн" came out a shaking voice, huping. Aries reopened her eyes and her gaze instantly fell on his side profile, still holding his hand between her palms. "... we promised to live normally, peacefully, and correctly. Please help us."

    Aries stretched her hand over to caress his leaned cheeks. Her eyes softened as tears pooled her eyes, forcing her to swallow the building tension in her throat.

    "Youбн always makes me cry, darling," she whispered, brushing his cheek with her thumb. "Why do you always make me sad?"

    Right then, Aries recalled Dexter''s warning to her the previous weeks. ording to Dexter, despite the peace now, they couldn''t becent. Aries thought she applied that warning, but she thought wrong.

    Due to the peacefulness in her life, she didn''t put much regard into those warnings. Now she understood why her brother had told her those words. Abel''s pastбн would always haunt him unless he put a stop to it.

    Tonight was the coven, and Aries didn''t know what else Abel did in the past to kill himself. And that sheer thought terrified her to a height she never knew existed.

    "When you wake upбн" she leaned her cheek with the back of his hand, eyes fixed on his side profile. "... I will scold you so bad."

    Aries hupped. "Don''t keep secrets from me anymore, Abel. I can take it, but what I can''t is if you just died."

    Her sniffs and hups soon dominated the silence in the emperor''s chambers. She stayed on the chair right beside the bed, holding his hand without talking anymore lest she started coughing blood again.

    <strong>*****</strong><sub> </sub>

    <strong>Meanwhile, outside the emperor''s chanceryбн</strong>

    Dexter was staring at the shut door of the emperor''s chambers with worry filling his eyes. Conan was leaning against the wall right beside the window, arms crossed under his chest.

    "You said she would be busy today." Conan''s quiet voice broke the silence in the hallway, shifting his eyes to Dexter''s back. "Howe she''s in this ce?"

    Dexter remained silent, lowering his eyes. He didn''t have the right to argue with Conan right now. Whatever he would say would only sound like an excuse. It was his fault, trusting Aries would return to the residence after her stroll in the Capital, forgetting Sunny could do something.

    Conan pressed his lips into a thin line, not pressing on the matter anymore. Dexter''s silence was enough for Conan to understand; Dexter agreed he gotcent. Now, all they could do was listen to Aries''s silent cries while watching Abel in his sleep.

    "Did the coven end?" asked Dexter after three minutes of silence, keeping his eyes on the shut door before him.

    "It didбн" Conan trailed off, recalling the turn of events during the coven. "His Majesty''s sister arrived, apparently. I''m not sure if her arrival is a good thing since she dispelled the coven when His Majesty couldn''t even do that."

    "His sisterбн?"

    "Mhm. Marse." Conan let out a shallow breath, ncing at the window beside him. "She also stopped Lady Aries from ruining her throat by forcing out spells without her knowledge."

    Conan paused, recalling the feeling he felt when Aries was shouting, "let him go!"

    "Did you say she''s the holder of Maleficent?" he asked. "If so, then we had no choice but to get her involved in everything."

    "Is that the only way?" this time, Dexter turned his head and set his eyes on Conan, only to see thetter staring at the window.

    "She already touched the curse living within her," Conan exined. "I''m speaking as someone who had lived a life of knowing things back on the maind. She might''ve not noticed it yet, but she had already awakened. Without proper guidance, Lady Aries will only be in danger, just like what happened tonight."

    "Witchesбн wereplicated beings, wielding powers that might require their own lives if needed. She might die without her knowledge," he continued in a quiet tone. "She might live a moreplicated life with everyone after her, but I''d rather choose that than standing doing nothing despite knowing she''s a ticking time bomb, unaware she might explode any moment."

    Dexter''s jaw tightened, peeling his eyes away from Conan to the shut door. Bitterness was stered across his face, balling his hand into a tight fist. But before he could me himself, Conan spoke.

    "This was bound to happen. Don''t me yourself." Dexter lowered his eyes upon Conan''s remarks. Thetter was still staring outside the window. "His Majesty only wished to keep her from all this, but this was already to be expected. After all, she married a Grimsbanne, a n who was said to be the direct descendant of the devil."

    "And not just any Grimsbanne, but the heir of the child of evil," Conan added, his voice lowering. "What an ominous pair. Maleficent and then the child of evil. I don''t think anyone who had heard about the prophecy would stand idly by if they heard about this."

 Chapter 552 If Youre Truly Sorry...

    Abel opened his eyes, blinking weakly until the ceiling of the emperor''s bed grew clearer. He moved his hand on instinct and arched a brow when he felt a weight over it. Abel turned to his left, and his eyes instantly fell on Aries.

    She was sitting on the armchair right beside the bed. Her body was bent over to the edge of the mattress, arms underneath her cheek. Her eyes were closed, sleeping, but still holding his hand.

    His eyes softened at the sight of her, noticing her suspending breathing, indicating she cried herself to sleep. Abel carefully slid his slender fingers in between the gaps of her fingers and then peeled his eyes away from her to the ceiling.

    Abel kept his lips into a tight and thin sh, breathing carefully. Despite the current state of his body with wounds not healing as fast бк a condition of the coven бк he couldn''t feel the physical pain. However, he could clearly feel the pang in his heart, remembering Aries''s desperate criesst night in the great hall.

    ''Whyбн did you keep shoutingбн?'' he wondered inwardly, recalling the painful expression she worest night. Aries kept shouting her lungs out and never once did she stop, even though her words seemed so meaningless and she was already coughing out blood.

    But Abel didn''t dwell on that further. He already knew the answer before he wondered and asked himself. That was the only thing Aries could do, and despite how painful it was for her to have no power in stopping the night council, she had to do something.

    "How pathetic." His voice was rasped and dry, narrowing his eyes. "You are pathetic, Abel."

    Perhaps this feeling prickling his heart like a thousand needles was called guilt. While Aries had done everything to save him, Abel had the gall to lose against his demon and let it control him for a moment. It was not like he was cornered, but somehow, he lost control of himself and nearly harmed those important to him.

    For example, Conan.

    If not for Conan''s capabilities to be able to keep Abel at bay, the night council would''ve disappeared from the face of the world. Not just them, but Conan and everyone in the empireбн that includes Aries.

    That was just how destructive Abel was.

    Abel slowly turned his head in Aries''s direction. His throat bobbed, propping his other arm against the mattress to assist himself to sit upright. His other hand was still sandwiched between her hands.

    Abel bent over to move her onto the bed and sleep beside him. But just as he moved closer to her, Aries moaned and adjusted. He paused as her eyes cracked open, blinking weakly.

    Aries furrowed her brows, pushing herself from the edge of the bed. When the gears in her head started to turn, she blinked twice, staring at Abel.

    "You''re awake?" was the first words that came out of her lips, ncing at the curtained shut window. The room was dark, but because of the light from the gap in the curtain, she knew it was already morning.

    "How are you feeling, hmm?" she asked as she set her worried eyes back on him. Her eyes went up and down, checking if there was any blood on his nightwear to know if his wounds reopened. When she raised her eyes up, locking eyes with him, her expression rxed.

    "Are you hurt anywhere?" she asked once again, waiting for his reply patiently.

    Abel, who was sitting up, watching everything unfold right before his eyes, remained silent. He studied her face. Herplexion looked pale, and the slight discoloration under her eyes indicated she barely had any sleep. Her eyes were still swelling, her lips chapped, and her voice was coarse.<sub> </sub>

    Aries didn''t look well herself, but here she was, asking him if he was hurt anywhere.

    Abel patted the mattress beside him. "Come here."

    Her brows rose in confusion, but she still followed as instructed. She pushed herself up, wincing as her legs numbed from sleeping in an ufortable position. She then sat on the edge of the mattress, her feet over it.

    "What?" she asked in a soft voice, facing him squarely. "Is there somethingбн wrong?"

    Aries trailed off when Abel leaned closer in the middle of her sentence, wrapping his arms around her. He rested his chin on her shoulder, tightening his grip around her, but not tight enough to suffocate her.

    "Better now," he breathed out; the vibration of his palm on her back indicated many things. "Are youбн hurt anywhere, darling?"

    The second his quiet voice caressed her ears, her face slightly contorted. She clutched his back, throat bobbing at the tension in it. Her eyes heated as tears formed in their corners.

    "I hate you," she whispered, lips quivering. "I thought I will die of worry."

    His lips curled into a subtle smile. "I''m shameless for smiling," he quipped in a quiet voice.

    "You are." Aries pped his back mildly, only to freeze when she felt the bandages underneath the thin fabric.

    "It didn''t hurt," he reassured, sensing the slight panic when her body stiffened. Abel then pulled her closer to feel the warmth of her body. "I''m sorry."

    Aries lowered her eyes, telling herself to stop crying like a little girl. However, her eyes betrayed her when a tear leaked out and stained her cheek.

    "You should be," she huffed weakly.

    "What should I do to appease you?" he asked with a slight smile.

    "Don''t do it again." Her reply, although weak, it was quick. "If you''re truly sorry, then don''t do it again. Don''t put me in a situation you know it''ll hurt me. But if there''s no choice, then I''d rather be in pain while knowing the truth than stay at peace because of a lie."

    Aries clutched his back, huping. "Don''t die, don''t keep secrets from me, and don''t ever decide for me. Thisбн is my life and if you want me, then stop hurting me. It''s so unfair, Abel. Iбн am hurt."

 Chapter 553 They Won

    "Don''t die, don''t keep secrets from me, and never decide for me. Thisбн is my life and if you want me, then stop hurting me. It''s so unfair, Abel. Iбн am hurt."

    Abel breathed out heavily, closing his eyes. When he reopened them, he slowly pulled his body away from her. He then cupped her face, wiping her tears with his thumb.

    "I''m wrong here, aren''t I?" he asked, and she nodded while biting her bottom lip. "It won''t happen again. What I mean by that is, things like the coven might happen again, but you''d know about it instead of getting surprised when it happens."

    Aries pursed her lips, studying his face to detect any deception on it. He looked like he was telling the truth.

    "Promise?" she asked in a tiny voice, watching him nod.

    "I promise," he reassured. "Will you forgive me now?"

    Aries averted her eyes with her lips closed. "Not yet."

    Abel cocked his head to the side, watching her keep her eyes to the side. He was still cupping her cheek, leaning closer to nt a soft kiss on her lips.

    "How about now?" he asked when he drew away, watching her look back at him.

    "Not yet."

    And so, Abel nted three more kisses on her lips before drawing his head back. "Now?"

    "Wellбн" Aries cleared her throat. "I''m not as angry."

    He chuckled with his lips closed, pulling her into his embrace. "Then should I cuddle you until you forgive me?"

    "I''m warning you. It won''t be that easy."

    "I can stay in this bed for a week with you." He squeezed her body, tightening his grip. "A year if I must, just so you forgive me. Actually, that''s like a treat for me at that point."

    Abel buried his face on top of her head, kissing it gently. "Why are you so precious?" he stroked her back gently, finding sce in the warmth of her body.

    Usually, the person who always felt reassured was the one being embraced. However, he felt secure with her confined in his embrace. There were no words that could describe or justify the sentiments in his heart.

    Aries was his worldбн no, she was his entire universe. God knows бк even the devil knows how precious she was to him. At this point, the words, ''I love you,'' would sound meaningless.

    But God, he loves her.

    "You should rest more." Her voice shattered the prolonged silence between them, patting his back gently. "Sir Conan said your wounds in the coven don''t heal that fast because of some sort of condition."

    "Mhm. The coven is to give me a time of weakness." Abel reluctantly let her go, facing her squarely. "Pain and weakness are the proof that I am still alive. It keeps me sane. Isn''t that insane?"

    Aries frowned, but she guessed that much while watching himst night. "It''s twisted, but I can''t really me you. Four thousand yearsбн is not a joke to be taken lightly."

    "I''m d you understand." He smiled, tipping his head on the bed. "Come. Let''s rest."

    Aries nodded, raising her legs on the bed while Abel moved to the side of the bed. But just as they were about to lie down, Aries flinched when the door suddenly flew open. She slowly set her eyes towards the door, heart racing, anxious if this was another bad news. Meanwhile, Abel arched a brow as he nced at the door.

    There, a woman with long, golden locks stepped inside. She folded her arms under her chest, standing still, eyes on them. The woman said nothing as she stared at them, chewing something.<sub> </sub>

    When an entire minute had passed in silence, Abel stretched his neck from one side to the other, eyes shut. Reopening his eyes, his lips parted.

    "If you have nothing to say, get out of my room," he warned coldly.

    Marse, his little sister, arched a brow. Keeping her arms locked under her chest, she took a step back, just enough for her to stand outside the door that was kept wide open. There, she stood wordlessly, eyes on them, her expression nk.

    Seeing this, Aries pursed her lips into a thin line. She nced at Abel, whose expression was also nk. She then gazed back at Marse, seeing some sort of resemnce to Abel. The two might not look alike, but their sharp features oddly look simr. It was strange.

    Was it the hair color? Aries wondered.

    Abel naturally had jet ck hair while Marse obviously had a lighter shade of gold. Their eye color might look simr, but Aries had known vampires could change their eye color to red.

    After another minute, Marse scoffed. She then wordlessly turned on her heel and sauntered off, just like that. She left the door wide open, making Abel frown in irritation.

    "What is wrong with her?" he mumbled while Aries looked back at him, only to see him scratch his temple. "This is why I hate having a sibling. They can press a nerve without even saying a word."

    Aries smiled subtly. "She probably came to check your well-being."

    "She definitely came to press a nerve." He shook his head, snapping his eyes at the door. A knight from outside was already closing it, keeping his head low to avoid seeing what was inside the emperor''s chambers. "I''ll teach her a lesson next time."

    "Abel, I don''t think Marse is that bad," Aries coaxed, cradling his hand. "She intervened in the coven and somehow saved us. Therefore, she deserved some recognition."

    Abel stared at her for a moment. "She did that because she needs our help."

    "Our help?"

    "Yes. You and I."

    Aries cocked her head to the side, blinking twice, waiting for further details.

    "Hmmбн" Abel pondered how to exin it to her, as it was a lot moreplicated and confusing. "Let''s just sayбн my sister met her match."

    "Are you going to keep me in the dark again?" she frowned. This wasn''t enough information for her.

    "No." He shook his head. "I just don''t know her real dilemma, but she might need you for it."

    "How can I help her?"

    Abel arched a brow. "Maleficent," he said, "she''s a powerful witch and you holding her curse is something that Marse thinks wille in handy. Let''s keep those detailster for now, hmm? You need sleep."

    Aries pursed her lips into a thin line and then nodded. With that being said, Aries and Abelid down with him slipping his arm under her neck, embracing her since her warmth was helping him recover quicklyбн ording to him.

    The matters of the coven and the night council might''ve appeared to have settled down, but Abel was aware it was far from over. There would be changes in that night council for sure.

    He gazed down at Aries, who was smiling with her eyes closed. ''They won... and got you a seat in the council.''

 Chapter 554 Made The Right Call

    "Abel?" Aries called after minutes of silence, lying on her side in Abel''s embrace. She raised her head to look at him.

    "Mhm?"

    "Are we going to be alright?" she asked worriedly. "Are there more covens I should know about? Days that you are the weakest and can be the time your enemies will target you?"

    Abel pressed his lips as he hummed, pondering for an answer. "Iбн forgot. The coven is the only event I had known for now. I think Conan had dispelled the rest since he''s the one managing my schedule."

    "How can you forget such an important thing?" she wondered in a quiet voice, only for Abel to pull her closer to his embrace. "You''re stressing me out."

    "If I forgot about it, then that means it wasn''t an important thing to remember," he purred. "Sleep now."

    "What about you?"

    "I will rest too. I promised I will embrace you until you''ve forgiven me, right?" he reminded her in a knowing tone. "Or have you forgiven me already?"

    "I''m still livid."

    He chuckled with his lips closed, casually stroking her back. "Don''t think of anything for now."

    "I can''t sleep," she confessed quietly. "Iбн don''t think I can."

    "Should I help you?"

    Aries shook her head mildly. "No need."

    "Have you eaten anything for the day?" he asked after a moment, patting her back mildly.

    "I don''t have the appetite."

    "What should we do, then?" he queried almost immediately. "You don''t want to sleep, you don''t have the appetite to eatбн I''m a bad husband for putting my wife in such a state."

    "You are." she pped his back mildly. "A terrible one from the get-go."

    "And yet you married him."

    Her eyes lowered as she breathed out. "Because I love himбн even though he was terrible in many things. He has pride that is higher than the heavens, but he was willing to lower that and apologize when he knew he was in the wrong." Aries smiled bitterly, rubbing her thumb and index against the fabric between them.

    "He''s also very dangerous when he was hurt. He could destroy anything and everything around him, but when I came into his life, he learned to keep it in. Instead of destroying anything he could see, he destroys himself," she continued quietly, biting her inner lower lip. "He''s unfair, you see."

    Abel frowned but remained silent.

    "Last night, when I saw those horns emerging from his skull, I wasбн terrified. But more than the fear, I couldn''t help but wonder what happened to the other one?" she added. "Why is the one not full? It looks like someone broke it clumsily."

    "I thought you saw me repulsive," Abel confessed as he saw her expressionst night when he nced at her.<sub> </sub>

    "I was searching for the Abel I knew." Aries pushed him away slightly so she could look at him. "I was thinking whether you would kill me along with everyone in a conscious state."

    "If I was in a conscious state?"

    Aries nodded. "Because if you weren''t in a conscious state, I know you''d regret it once you came back to your senses." The side of her lips stretched into a subtle smile. "I want to make sure that''s what you truly want."

    "You''ll be fine with it?" the lines between his brows deepened.

    "Why not?" she chuckled weakly, raising her hand to cup his face. "Abel, if there will be a time that you might need to kill me, just do it. I was nothing before I met you. My life was already in shambles бк even worse. But not only did you grant me freedom, but you valued, loved, and showed me there''s more in life."

    Aries brushed his cheek with her thumb gently, looking at him lovingly. "It might be short, but the memories we had together were enough for me. Therefore, if I can help you by dying, then, by all means, take my life."

    "Of course, this might sound selfish and uncalled for. But just in case you will need to choose in the future, I want to let you know about my heart," she added reassuringly. "You had lived a long life, but the sheer thought of living without you pains me to a degree I can never measure."

    "Youбн make me sad."

    "That''s what you get for making me cry. Although I''m not purposely saying this now as an act of petty revenge." Aries smiled, moving up whilst cupping his face. She rested her forehead against his forehead, closing her eyes to rest. "I will get stronger, so when you have a day that you are weak, I can protect you. Don''t just shoulder that role all alone, Abel. Give me a chance to protect the holder of my heart as well."

    Abel slowly closed his eyes, breathing in her deep breaths. "Your fearбн that you might failбн I think I was the one who did."

    "But you said we''ll be fine. We''ll figure it out somehow," she reminded him of the words he told her during the time they were in her subconscious. "We''re a married couple, Abel. I might''ve married Abel Grimsbanne and not the emperor of this empire, but you''re still the same man in my heart."

    "We''ll be fine," she whispered. "Just trust me."

    "Mhm." Abel held the back of her hand that was cupping his cheek, eyes still shut. "It won''t be easy."

    "I had always known it won''t be, but I''m still here. Don''t underestimate my tenacity."

    "I never did."

    "Then don''t pretend I''m as fragile as ss. I might crack, but I will keep it together."

    <o>,m "Mhm." Abel hummed before silence followed.</o>

    The two of them kept their eyes shut, breathing in each other''s breath as if that was the only way to make sure the other was still alive. As the silence dominated the room, both of them slowly fell into a peaceful nap to recharge fromst night''s events.

    Little did they know, just right outside the emperor''s chambers were Sunny and Marse. They were leaning against the wall, eavesdropping on the conversation inside.

    "Sunny feels bad," the little girl mumbled, pouting. She fumbled with her fingers as guilt prickled her devious heart.

    Meanwhile, the woman, who was leaning against the wall beside Sunny, had her arms crossed. She nced down at the little girl, but showed no sign of amusement or mockery. She raised her chin and gazed at the window.

    "I guess I made the right call to visit him," she whispered in her naturally intimidating voice. "And you also did the right call, piggy. Not because we are fond of other people doesn''t mean we have to ept them in this family immediately. Especially if being affiliated with us guarantees death."

 Chapter 555 Kill Me

    Time stopped for no one. Despite the coven, days had passed like any other. Aries had stayed beside Abel for the past three days, barely leaving the emperor''s chambers. Meanwhile, others had continued with everyone''s lives since they had an empire to take care of.

    On the fourth day, Abel finally decided to do his dutiesбн but first, he had scheduled a proper dinner with his wife, Aries, his brother-inw Dexter, his sister Marse, and his granddaughter Sunny.

    Sitting on the head seat, Abel looked to his right. Aries was sitting on his right, and beside her was Dexter. Across from Aries were Marse and then Sunny.

    Silence had dominated the air of the grand dining hall, with them not touching their food except Sunny. No one could stop the little girl from gobbling up the food served right in front of her.

    "What a shameless little girl," Abelmented, staring at Sunny with disdain. Thetter, who felt everyone''s gaze on her, paused.

    Sunny gulped, reluctantly putting down her cutlery. The frown on her adorable round face was apparent. Her frown grew deeper when Marseughed in mockery.

    "I had already told you the reason I arranged this dinner," Abel spoke after several seconds of silence, keeping his eyes on Sunny and Marse. Meanwhile, Dexter knitted his brows, knowing he simply came in here since Aries couldn''t meet Abel''s family all alone.

    "Sorry," came out a tiny voice from Sunny, frowning, eyes on Aries and then on Dexter. "Sunny won''t trick Grandmama again."

    Abel nodded in satisfaction before shifting his eyes to Marse. Thetter''s brows rose, tilting her head to the side.

    "What?" asked Marse with genuine wonder in her voice. "I did nothing wrong!"

    Silence followed Marse''s remarks, with everyone, including Sunny, looking at her wordlessly. She frowned, leaning back, crossing her arms.

    "I''m not apologizing," she asserted strongly. "I did nothing wrong to her, and even if I did, why would I apologize? If I did something, even if it was wrong, that means I did it for a reason. Whether that reason is as simple as it made me happy doesn''t matter. My point is I don''t regret it, nor do I feel remorseful about it."

    "We''re not asking you to apologize," Abel chimed in a dead tone. "We''re waiting for you to state your problems and how we can help you. What a disgrace."

    "Ohбн" Marse''s lips formed an o-shape while rocking her head in understanding. "You should''ve rified earlier."

    "Pretty Grandma, you''re a bad person, are you?" Sunny inquired with intrigued in her voice. "How can you not feel remorseful about doing an evil deed?"

    "Piggy, there''s a reason people call it evil." Marse rebutted in a knowing tone.

    Meanwhile, Dexter and Aries darted their eyes on the two across from them. Their lips were drawn into a tight, thin sh. In their eyes, they were like hearing and seeing two versions of Abel: a woman version of him and a child version. And this was just a casual talk; Marse and Sunny had done nothing grand yet.

    Abelzily propped his jaw against his knuckles, watching Marse and Sunny banter. It wasn''t like they were arguing, but it showed how twisted these two were.

    "You went to the maind?" his voice put a stop to Marse and Sunny''s ''casual'' exchange to a twisted view of life. They were embarrassing to listen to. If only Abel had always heard himself talk, he might have a different opinion.<sub> </sub>

    Marse raised her brows and shifted her attention to Abel. "Uh-huh." Pointing at the little girl beside her, she scoffed. "Because of this lying pig, I was ambushed the second I stepped foot on the maind. They prepared a grand wee party for the beautiful me."

    "Anything interest?"

    "Yes, me." Marse snorted. "It was my first time in that ce. How would I know if there''s anything interesting aside from myself? Ah, was a burning forest interesting enough?"

    "The forbidden forest is on fire?" Sunny frowned, making Marse turn to her. "Did Tilly''s mansion fall into ruin?"

    "I don''t know and I don''t care, alright? Maybe it did, maybe it didn''t. Iбн honestly and absolutely don''t care." Marse stressed with absolute certainty. "All I want is to fix my problem since I have a duchy to take care of."

    "You''re a duchess?" Dexter blurted out, biting his tongue when he realized his curiosity overtook him for a moment.

    Marse arched a brow. "No," she shook her head. "I was an empress."

    "Nice career," Abelmented, and the Sunny chimed in with admiration.

    "Pretty Grandma is amazing! You''re like grandpa! Rich and pretty!"

    Marseughed, obviously pleased by the praises. She shrugged and flipped her hair.

    "Then, why did you say duchy?" this time, Aries couldn''t help but wonder cautiously. She pressed her lips into a thin line when Marse''s sharp eyes fell on her. For reasons unknown, Aries held her hand under the table under her sister-inw''s gaze.

    "That''s right. Why did you say duchy when you''re the empress?" Sunny inquired with her finger on her chin, pondering for a clue.

    "To make the long story short, I was someone who crawled my way up to power. Eventually iming the crown of the empressбн only to die in my throne and by the hands of a stupid maniac whom I chose as my emperor." Marse''s tone grew colder as a murderous glint flickered across her sharp, crimson eyes. "By some dumb luckбн or should I say a curse, here I am, gracing you all with my divine presenceбн as someone who is bound to marry a grand duke whom these hands will kill."

    <o>,m Marse leaned forward, eyes on Aries. Her arms propped against the table.</o>

    "That''s the answer to your previous inquiry. That is my dilemma," she stressed. "Can you help me? You should, though, or I''ll kill you."

    "What a way to ask someone for a favor," Abelmented, but Aries could only furrow her brows. "Very diligent."

    "I don''t understand," Aries confessed under her breath.

    "Of course, you don''t. But you don''t need to understand everything to stop my curse." Marse shook her head, eyes narrowed slightly. "Kill me."

 Chapter 556 Its Not A Decease, It Was A Curse.

    ording to Marse, spells weren''t asplicated as others thought they were. Usually, when a person casts a spell, the caster could undo it. However, there were spells бк especially ancient forbidden curses бк that even the caster couldn''t undo. That didn''t mean there was nothing to be done. It only needs a powerful бк much more powerful than the caster and a capable witch to undo a spell.

    <strong>Maleficent. </strong>

    A witch that was said to be the most powerful witch to have ever existed could cast and dispel any curse. Since the Grimsbanne were originally vampires, there were certain things they couldn''t do. They weren''t born witches and only learned witchcraft in hopes they could deal with their own cursed blood.

    In other words, Marse and Sunny''s best bet was Aries, and that power lies within her. After all, those two were almost in the same dilemma. The only difference was that Sunny didn''t wish to die.

    "I only heard about witches and vampires recently," Aries confessed after Marse''s exnation regarding curses and spells. "To put it simply, I know nothing about witchcraft."

    "That is not a problem." Marse shrugged. "I can teach you. I''m a witch myself, so we''re like sisters."

    "But you weren''t born as a witchбн"

    "I was born a witch," Marse corrected in a knowing tone. "Marse is the one who isn''t born a witch."

    "бн" Aries pursed her lips, eyes fixed on Marse. She wanted to ask for rification, as Marse wasn''t making any sense right now. However, considering she was her sister-inw, Aries didn''t want to offend her lest she say something that could offend Marse.

    "Grandmama, what she means is she''s not Marse." Sensing the confusion in Aries''s eyes, Sunny happily exined with a finger raised. "Marse is the one you''re looking at бк the face, the body, the voice, and anything you see. But inside is not the real Marse!"

    "What?" Aries and Dexter blurted out in unison.

    "To put it simply, there are two people inside this woman," Abel continued, raising a hand in Marse''s direction. "The one you''re talking to right now is someone else while my sister бк the real one бк is sleeping soundlessly inside that wicked shellбн or not."

    "There are two souls inside you?" Aries''s mouth fell open, trying to convince herself this was normal in their world. But for someone who barely epted that there were other beings who weren''t humans walking on the surface of the world just like her, her brain short-circuited.

    "What a funny expression," Marsemented with a dryugh. "She''s not sleeping. She''s screaming."

    She then tapped her temple and gazed at Abel. "She wants to see you so terribly bad and y you from head to toe, brother. Oh, and she hates it when I call you brother. I wonder what she''ll do if I sleep with you to spite her."

    "Not gonna happen." Abel smiled. "I am very satisfied with my wife and I don''t think I''ll get hard even if you stood bare before me."

    "Are you sure?" Marse propped her jaw, simpering.

    "You are seducing him in front of his wife," Dexter remarked, displeased by this ufortable exchange of words between siblings.

    Marse arched a brow and nced at Aries. Thetter''s expression was nk, but the coldness within them was apparent.

    "I do not want to leave a terrible impression on my sister-inw, but don''t forget you need my help. Even if I know nothing about witchcraft, I''d rather not learn anything just to spite you," Aries warned coldly, making Abel smile from ear to ear. "Moreover, there''s a child in here. Even if you tell me she''s mature enough, my morals still consider her as a child."<sub> </sub>

    Abel cupped his cheek, eyes squinting, fixing his eyes at Aries. "She never gets jealous, so I never knew how hot she is when she is being territorial," he happilymented.

    "Grandmama is the best! Have you forgiven Sunny for tricking you?"

    "Oops." Marse chuckled, raising her hands in surrender. "Don''t worry. Abel isn''t my type. Just the sight of him turns my stomach. I''d rather sleep with a beggar than with him."

    "Male ego not hurt." Abel chuckled, keeping his attention on Aries. "The only desire I need is from my wife."

    "Does she desire you, though?" Dexter arched a brow and smirked, causing the ear-to-ear smile on Abel to fade slowly.

    "Of course бк"

    "Let''s stick to the topic," Aries remarked with a deep breath, casting Abel a look and then back to Marse. "I will agree, but you have to help me as well."

    "I already told you I will teach you." Marse raised a brow, tilting her head to the side.

    "Not that." Aries shook her head and exined. "Right now, I am not well myself and I might die. Help me find a cure for my problem. Lest you do not know, we hadn''t figured out what sort of diseases had struck me."

    The side of Marse''s lips curled up. "What makes you think it''s a disease?"

    "You know about her health problem?" Dexter perked up while Abel arched a brow, eyes on Marse. Aries, on the other hand, knitted her brows.

    "You haven''t figured it out?" Marse cast Abel a look, only to chortle upon seeing the sincere puzzlement in his eyes. "You''re only a strong vampire with a bit of knowledge in witchcraft."

    She then peeled her eyes away from Abel to Aries. "It was a curse."

    "A curse?"

    "Mhm." Marse''s eyes sized up Aries, narrowing them as she kept silent for a moment. She then linked her hands together, resting her chin atop them. "I can''t me your husband for not figuring it out. After all, he wasn''t born a witch. It''s a curse you put it upon yourself?"

    "What?" they all asked in unison,pletely confused now.

    "No, not you. But that Maleficent. The witches might not have figured it out yet since they''re far below my level, but I''m sure of it." She nodded, speaking with absolute certainty. "What sort of curse? I don''t know. But what I do know is that whether or not you want it, if you want to live, you have to ept it and use it. Because if you don''t unleash the power within you, it will only devour your soul bit by bit until Maleficent takes over your body, life, and everything."

    "You should know by now that those in power can be very twisted," she added, ncing at Abel. "They do tons of twisted things for their own personal reason. Stealing another person''s life doesn''t sound so bad if that means you can live again. Am I right?"

 Chapter 557 [Bonus Chapter]Trust

    Dinner ended on a conflicting note, but they all understood one thing. Aries must know how to wield this gift, which they called a curse. Or else it might kill her, just as Marse said.

    There was also another agreement that night, and that was for Marse to stay in the Vandran residence. Aries wanted to stay in the imperial pce with Abel, but because of the matters regarding the night council, she had to stay in the House Vandran for the time being.

    For the sake of not meeting scandalous news about Aries being the emperor''s mistress and for the empire''s historical purposes, they had to follow their original ns. Aries was a little puzzled that Abel agreed to it so easily, but he told her he would invite her back to the imperial pce legally.

    Which led Aries to this situation four dayster.

    "What a great greenhouse!" Marse cheered as she walked around the greenhouse full of poisonous nts.

    Aries and Dexter looked at each other and sighed. Marse had arrived today as a guest of Aries. Everyone except Gustav knew Marse was a nobledy outside the capital. She was, apparently, Aries''s <strong>''good''</strong> friend back when Aries was living out of the capital to recover from her sickness.

    That was the only reasonable story they coulde up with for them to have an excuse to amodate Marse without too many questions raised by the public.

    Marse stopped by a flowerbed, gazing down at the nts with interest. "My, my. What do we have here?" she turned and cast the two a look.

    "Just in case you don''t know, I''m quite fond of this nt. After all, this is what my former husband бк" her face contorted in dismay at her own remarks. "I feel like throwing up to even consider him as someone I married, but anyway, I''m fond of this since this is the reason I died and here with the two of you."

    Dexter let out a deep exhale. "This greenhouse is a safe ce for you to teach her witchcraft."

    "Alchemy," Marse corrected, almost making him roll his eyes.

    "Sure. Alchemy." Dexter cleared his throat. "Just don''t destroy this ce."

    "Oh, ho!" Marseughed, hiding her lips behind a folded hand fan. "You shouldn''t be telling those warnings to me, but to your sister. After all, I am only going to teach her while she will be the one who will execute it."

    "No promises." Aries shed Dexter an awkward smile.

    Dexter gazed at Aries and then nced at Marse. Ever since he agreed to take Aries in, Abel had beening in and out of the House Vandran. But now, even Abel''s sister, who was practically a stranger to every single one of them, would have to live in this ce for who knows how long. Yet, it was better for Aries to stay here instead of the Imperial Pce since the night council had been very aggressive in their petition for Aries to take a proper seat in the council.

    "Anyway, take care." Dexter nted a hand on Aries''s shoulder, locking his gaze with her. "Gustav will be alerted if any harm befell you."

    Aries smiled subtly. "Do not worry. I will be fine. Trust me."

    "It''s not that I don''t." He shifted his eyes to thedy standing just several steps away from them. "It''s her that I don''t trust."<sub> </sub>

    "My, myбн how sweet. Shall I visit youter tonight so we can build our trust?" Marse proposed, which Dexter and Aries automatically ignored.

    "I''ll leave you two alone for now, but I''ll stay in the residence. So if anything happened, I''ll be here."

    "That''s reassuring to hear." Aries smiled, nodding in understanding. The two of them stared at each other for a moment before Dexter cast Marse another look. Without saying a word, the marquess left after looking at Aries onest time.

    Aries stood in the same spot, watching Dexter''s retreating back until he was out of her sight. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, holding her hand, smiling faintly. Dexter had been extra attentive ever since the coven ended, and he had bantered with Abel less than usual.

    "You two had a great rtionship." Aries snapped her eyes when Marse''s voice sounded distant behind her. When she turned her neck, Marse was already standing beside her, looking at the door. "It''s a ton better than what a real sibling had."

    "You knew?"

    Marse smirked as she looked back at her as if she just heard a joke. "What a stupid question to ask. Of course. You two smell different. Have you ever heard people saying, <strong>''it''s in the blood?''</strong>"

    "Rightбн" Aries breathed out, realizing her question was in stupid. "So, what are you going to teach me?"

    Aries face Marse squarely, eagerness filling her eyes. Thetter, however, just chuckled.

    "I''m not teaching you anything today," Marse remarked with a smirk. "That isn''t in my ns."

    "Pardon?"

    "We need to build trust first." Marse waved, turning on her heel, marching towards the intricate set of chairs and table nearby. Sensing that Aries wasn''t following her tracks, she halted and looked back.

    "We had to build mutual trust first, or else I might teach you something destructive without your knowledge for personal entertainment. If you haven''t considered that, then you''re ten times more naive than I originally thought."Marse chortled as she resumed her steps.

    Meanwhile, Aries could only look at the woman''s back until Marse dragged a chair where she plopped her butt down. To be honest, Aries didn''t consider what Marse just said, knowing she would eventually figure it out if Marse was teaching her something silly.

    However, since Marse had mentioned it, her view towards the woman slightly turned positive. After all, Marse wouldn''t say that if she truly intend to teach Aries something ''terrible.'' And with that being said, Aries had a bit of trust in Abel''s sister who was also her sister-inw.

    ''Selfish as she may sound, but I don''t think he''s that terrible. He''s just like Abel,'' Aries told herself before joining Marse at the table to build the foundation of their rtionship, which was trust.

 Chapter 558 [Bonus Chapter]Vera

    "Ahбн silenceбн so golden." Marse''s rxed voice caressed the silent air with a cup of tea in her hand. Her finger flicked, sipping from the cup, breathing out in satisfaction.

    "I know my beauty isparable to a goddess, but if you''re going to ask me a question, ask," she muttered nonchntly, while elegantly cing the teacup on the saucer. Marse fluttered her long eyshes, eyesnding on Aries, who sat across from her on this round, marbled table.

    "So?" she tilted her head to the side. "What is it you need to know? We can stay silent throughout the day and call it building a rapport. I do not mind if that is the route we''re going to take."

    "You''re very blunt." Aries smiled subtly, only to see Marse shrug.

    "Time is the only thing I possess, but that is not the case for you," Marse quipped. "You are running out of time, Ram."

    "Ram?"

    "Aries. Isn''t that your name? Aries, Ram. Same."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, blinking twice. "How did you know that?" she asked. "Back in Rikhill, thend where I came from, there was this legend regarding the golden ram. That is why my father named me Aries. However, I didn''t think others knew that legend since I had met foreign nobles outside Rikhill and they didn''t know about that lore."

    "I am a curious one." Marse kept her answer short and simple. "I''ll call you Ram since you''ll be our golden ram to save the Grimsbannes from their impending doom."

    "If that is what you want. Be my guest." Aries shrugged, knowing even if she refused, she would call her the same. There was no point since Aries had already used a lot of names. Adding another one wouldn''t make a difference.

    Marse propped her elbow against the surface of the table, resting her jaw on her knuckles. "I see why Abel is head over heels for you. You''re quite smart."

    "In what way?" Aries tilted her head to the side.

    "In a way you let things slide if it only bothers you the slightest." Marse pointed out. "Or are you just used to people doing whatever they want to you it just became a norm for you?"

    "I just do not see the point of dwelling on things I shouldn''t waste energy on." The side of Aries''s lips curled up into a subtle smile. "Unlike you who have time, I realized how little time I have. I have no spare leisure to focus on the most menial things."

    Marse rocked her head in amusement, eyes still on Aries''s clear eyes. "I like you."

    "Abel told me being liked by you is a scary thing, but I think otherwise."

    "He hadn''t even met me and he''s already spewing nder." Marse rolled her eyes. "I''ll settle the score with himter."

    Aries chuckled, rxing in Marse''spany. The more they exchanged words, the more she feltfortable. The initial fright she had for this woman slowly faded, but still lingered in her heart, knowing Marse could snap at any second.

    "You and Abel are like strangersбн"

    "We are strangers to each other." Marse corrected, making Aries nod.

    "Despite being blood-rted, you two still seemed like siblings. I would''ve mistaken that you grew up together just by listening to your conversations. You remind me of my rtionship with brother бк the other one in Rikhill," Ariesmented, starting their conversation on a much more casual topic to build their foundation.<sub> </sub>

    "While you and that marquess remind me of my brothers." Marse leaned back and crossed her arms under her chest. "But in a much more twisted way."

    "You had other brothers?" Aries furrowed her brows, waiting for further details. Marse kept quiet, looking back at her as if she was wondering if she would say more or just up. In the end, Marse''s lips parted.

    "And a sister. Actually, I had a whole different family on another continent. A mother, a father, big brothers, a little brother, and a sister." The side of her lips curled up as a glint flickered across her eyes. "They only had one wish, and that was for Marse to die."

    "What?"

    "Not me, but this person." Marse pointed at her face. "As I''ve said, I''m merely borrowing her face, body, and everything. I am not Marse because if I was, your husband wouldn''t even get out of that coven alive."

    Aries''s smile lines faded, recalling their talk a few days ago over dinner. "What was Marse like?"

    "Crazy." Marse''s answer was quick with a toneced with utter disdain. "If God had descended into this world and gave me one wish he would fulfill, I''ll ask him to kill this bitch."

    "So Abel wasn''t lyingбн"

    "He wasn''tбн maybe. Marse is his sister, so he knows what she is capable of. He''s lucky I''m the one who came and not his little sister. Or else thisnd is already a bloodbath and you? You''re probably dead."

    Aries bit her lower lips as she watched her breathing, eyes still on Marse. Right now, they were talking about Marse бк that woman across from her бк but it was strange to make it sound like they were talking about a different person. Technically, they were talking about a different person, because the person Aries was talking to was not actually Marse.

    Yes. Another soul and not just a different persona.

    "She''s watching you." Aries nearly flinched when Marse continued, seeing thetter point in her own eyes. "From these eyes,ughing evilly, interested in getting her hands on you. After all, she''s envious of many things. Heard about an inferiorityplex?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. "Can you hear her?"

    "Yes, she''s very loud." Marse chuckled as if she was enjoying something Aries couldn''t see or hear. "You have to learn quickly because if she overtakes this body even for a moment, she will kill you."

    "Why would she kill me?"

    "Don''t be so ludicrous, Ram. You know the answer to that question." Marse leaned forward and dawdled. "She will kill you before you kill her. We''re in a race. Didn''t I tell you time is the only thing I possess, but that isn''t the same with you?"

    "Rightбн" Aries clutched her skirt as she calmed down her racing heart. "Anyway, since we''re at it, what should I call you? If you''re not Marse, may I know your name?"

    The side of Marse''s lips curled up into a smirk. Ever since she stepped foot in this ce, everyone just called her Marse. Even when she told them she wasn''t Marse, no one bothered to ask her name.

    "Vera," Marse stressed. "That is the name of your mentor, Ram. Don''t forget to ask my name when the timees and you don''t trust me anymore. It''lle in handy."

 Chapter 559 Voodoo

    <strong>Three daysterбн</strong>

    "Is this really working?" Aries raised her head at Marse, holding a straw doll and a needle that she used to prick the straw doll. A single hair was attached to the doll. On the table were lit candles with waxes melted around its bottom and a small magic circle Aries had drawn herself.

    The day after Marse''s arrival, she started teaching Aries how witchcraft work. But s, until now, Aries was not sure if she had any progress at all. How could she? She might''ve learned how to draw a magic circle, but that was all.

    She had been prickling this straw doll, but she didn''t even know what it was for. All she knew was that if she did, it would tickle the owner of the hair that was attached to it.

    Marse rested her jaw against her knuckles, her expressionzy. She batted her eyes slowly at Aries, sitting across from thetter on this round table in the greenhouse.

    "Spells work if you believe in them," she uttered. "It won''t if you yourself don''t believe it or are unwilling to ept its existence."

    "I believe in myself."

    "I didn''t say you didn''t, but you have to believe in what you are doing as well." A tinge of disappointmentced Marse''s voice. "Drill in your head that your powers and your soul are one. Move and think as one, look and feel as one; there is no dominant part, just bnce."

    A deep exhale slipped past Aries''s nose. "This is soplicated."

    "I never said it wasn''t, but once you get a hang of it, it''ll be easier. Everything you do on a daily basis will be easier бк whatever it was." Marse shrugged. "Now continue."

    "But how would I know if it''s working?" asked Aries onest time, curiosity filling her eyes. "And whose hair was this again?"

    "Your husband."

    Aries froze, wide-eyed. "Pardon?"

    "It''s your husband''s hair. If it''s working, he would writhe in pain right now. But it''s still not working, Ram. I''m not hearing his screams."

    "..."

    Aries looked at Marse nkly, rendered speechless by the revtion. Her mouth opened and closed and only after forcing herself, did her voice break out of the cage in her throat.

    "You said it will tickle someoneбн" she stressed under her breath. "You didn''t tell me it''ll hurt anyone."

    "Oh, I didn''t? You didn''t mishear me? I thought I said prickle, not tickle." Marse feigned ignorant, scratching her nape, averting her eyes from Aries.

    "I can''t believe you." Aries huffed, almost ring daggers at Marse.

    Marse let out a shallow breath, leaning back. She folded her arms under her chest, scrutinizing Aries''s face, which showed apparent irritation and disbelief.

    "You are naive, dearest ram. Witchcraft in itself is an act of sphemy. Never heard of someone being used of being a witch and getting stoned to death?" she arched a brow, cocking her head to the side. "It''s ck magic for a reason. It''s never meant to be a good deed."

    This time, Aries''s lips parted, but her voice was stuck in her throat. She wanted to argue with Marse, but what Marse said were facts.

    "Of course, since Abel is our guinea pig, this sort of practice would only tickle him. If it''s another one, it would surely hurt him," Marse continued in a knowing tone. "This is the most basic voodoo and themest. Do it properly and stopining."

    "I''m notining, I''m calling you out," Aries mumbles, stabbing the needle into the straw doll. "Tickle, tickle, tickle,"

    Marse scoffed as Aries was tweeting like a bird while stabbing the needle into the straw doll. But she didn''t stop her until minutester when she realized it wasn''t working.

    "Stop." She unlinked her arms and tapped the table in irritation. "Chirping like that wouldn''t magically make things work, alright?"<sub> </sub>

    Aries stopped and looked back at her with a poker face. Her expression brought this level of irritation to Marse, but thetter ignored it.

    "I told you, feel your intention. I can say I will kill you but think I simply want to scoop your eyes out. If the mind and heart aren''t in sync, it won''t work even if you shed tears of blood," Marse lectured and huffed. Teaching someone and learning it on her own was easier, she thought.

    "I don''t want to hurt Abel. Even if I convince myself that it would only tickle him at most, I can''t bring myself to do it!" Aries intoned in distress. "Can you just give me a strand of your hair? It might work if it''s you!"

    "..." Marse''s expression died. "How dare you?"

    Aries clicked her tongue and looked away, resuming stabbing the straw doll halfheartedly. She didn''t look back at Marse, sensing thetter''s intimidating gaze fixed on her. Aries had always wondered what her rtionship would look like with her inws.

    Initially, she was overwhelmed with the sheer thought. However, she didn''t imagine it would be thisplicated. Her husband''s sister was teaching her witchcraft, and just after three days of being together, Aries was unsure herself if this rtionship was heading toward a great rapport or heading to a disastrous one.

    Marse, or rather, the person inhabiting Marse''s body, was just too unpredictable. Aries would''ve doubted her ims since she was like Abel. They were both a headache to deal with.

    "Forget it." Marse pped the table, making Aries flinch. "We''re wasting our time."

    Aries pursed her lips and ced the needle and straw doll on the table. "I agree."

    Marse remained silent while staring at Aries. Thetter''s brows rose when a minute had passed and she didn''t speak a word.

    "What?" Aries frowned, breaking the prolonged silence between them. "Are you going to scold me?"

    "Have you killed someone?" asked Marse out of nowhere.

    "Pardon?"

    "Have you ever sullied your hands?" Marse repeated without batting an eye. She observed Aries''s reaction, and even before Aries nodded, she already figured it out. "What did it feel for you?"

    "What did killing feel like?" Aries repeated in a questioning tone, and Marse nodded. "Wellбн I can''t describe it with words."

    "Excited?"

    "No!"

    "Guilt?"

    "No," this time, Aries''s tone lowered, looking down at the melted wax on the bottom part of the lit candle. "I took part in the war. It didn''t give me the time to even think of my feelings about my first kill. Soбн"

    "So you didn''t kill someone after that?"

    "I did." Aries slowly raised her head, locking eyes with Marse. "Anger was my driving force. I killed people in my head every day with every method I could think of. But even when I put it into practice, I was never happy about it. I was justбн"

    "Relieved?" Aries''s breath hitched when Marse guessed the word that perfectly defined what she felt back then. "You weren''t joyful just as you imagined yourself to be, but rather, relieved because you know for sure they won''t be able to hurt you again."

    Aries held her breath, biting her inner lower lip. "Yes," she breathed out. "I was relieved they wouldn''t have the means to hurt me anymore."

    "Remember that feeling." Aries''s brows rose as Marse leaned forward. Thetter cupped her cheek, fixating her eyes on Aries. "That driving force that pushed you to survive. Hold on to it like it was your dear life. Wake up with that feeling, breathe, and live carrying that me."

    "For nowбн" Marse pointed at the poisonous nt nearby, before moving the magic circle in front of Aries. "Try burning that nt through this magic circle while remembering that feeling. Who knows? The basic ones might be too easy for you."

 Chapter 560 I Guess I Was Wrong

    Aries stared at Marse solemnly before her eyes fell on the magic circle. In silence, she nced at the poisonous nt that Marse pointed at, etching how it appeared in her head. When she memorized how it looked, she gazed at the magic circle.

    Aries drew a deep breath. She stared at the magic circle intensely, narrowing her eyes. Unknowingly, Aries had also been holding her breath. Only when she was out of breath and her face had turned red did she realize she was forgetting to breathe.

    "Ughбн" Aries breathed out heavily, clutching the edge of the marbled table. "My head hurts."

    "Who told you to hold your breath? Calm down and breathe calmly," Marse instructed tonelessly, arching a brow when Aries looked up at her. Thetter didn''t retort, though.

    "I''ll try harder," announced Aries weakly, keeping aser focus on the magic circle. She shunned all unnecessary thoughts in her mind until it was nothing but nk, imagining setting the poisonous nt on fire. However, as she thought so, lines between her brows appeared.

    ''Setting them on fire would cause harm since the smoke it will produce will be toxic, right?'' Aries wondered, letting out a long-suffering sigh.

    "I can''t." Aries shook her head, raising her eyes at Marse. "I''m getting distracted."

    "About?"

    "The toxic smoke it will produce," Aries exined. "If I set them on fire, the smoke will be lethal. What if the fire spread? Then this entire greenhouse will be on fire. Once it did, it will also put the people in the manor to harm. I can''t risk that even though there''s only a slight chance I''ll seed."

    Marse''s expression remained nk, arms crossed. "We have a long, long way to go," shemented tonelessly as if she hadn''t decided whether to get disappointed or get angry.

    "That''s all for today," Marse added. "You had a visitor. Keep practicing moving small objects throughout the day. Treat it as an exercise."

    Before Aries could even ask what Marse was talking about, she caught a figure approaching from the side. When she turned her head, Gustav was already bowing several steps from their vantage point.

    "Mydy, the Marquess is summoning you back to the manor," Gustav stated as he stood straight to his height. "A royal carriage had arrived in the residence. Your presence is needed to receive a royal decree."

    Aries furrowed her brows. "What does Abel want now?" she mumbled, looking back at Marse.

    "Who knows? And I don''t care. I will stay here for a while. After all, I do not have business with His Majestyбн for now." Marse waved, dismissing her. "I also needed some time alone to reconsider my ns for how to trick you."

    "That''s not hrious." Aries nted her hands on the table as she pushed herself up. When she was standing beside the table, she performed a short curtsy. "I will be on my way. Thank you for your time today."

    Aries shed Marse a subtle smile before facing Gustav. She nodded, and with that, Gustav escorted Aries outside the greenhouse to the main building.<sub> </sub>

    As they leave, Marse kept her eyes on Aries''s back. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, shaking her head mildly when the two crossed the threshold. Marse kept her arms folded under her chest, eyes on the empty chair across from her.

    After some time, her eyes fell on the magic circle. The mes from the candle burned still until they danced despite not having any wind blowing.

    "She''s determined, but at the same time, too stubborn. I never liked and disliked someone at the same time," came out a mumble, raising a brow when the mes on the candles suddenly died.

    Thin smoke ascended in the still air, drawing a line going up. Her brows knitted as her gaze fell on the magic circle once more. Marse narrowed her eyes when the tip of the parchment where the magic circle was drawn started to burn without fire.

    "Mhmбн?" Marse watched the burnt part of the paper stretch, engulfing it bit by bit until the whole thing turned into ash. She bent over, touching the ash. She checked her fingertip, rubbing her thumb against her index to feel its texture.

    "Interesting," she mumbled before the side of her lips curled up into an amused smirk. "I guess I was wrong to think we have a long way to go. We have progress, after all."

    Marse nted her hands on the table, pushing herself up. She stared at the table that had candles, ashes, a straw doll, and a bunch of needles of different sizes. The smirk on her face remained, peeling her sharp eyes away from it to the flower bed nearly.

    Marse marched towards it. Standing before the poisonous nts, she kept quiet. Her smirk stretched even wider, watching the nts wither right before her eyes.

    "Will you look at that?" she mused, recalling Aries''s reasoning previously before leaving. "It was the same as that night of the coven."

    Aries hadn''t realized it yet, but she had already awakened her powers in her subconscious. She was able to do it. It was just that her subconscious was far more dominant. It was an instinct, and Aries hadn''t realized she had been living relying on her subconscious.

    This nt was the proof that crystallized Marse''s theory.

    Knowing setting the nts on fire could harm others, Aries subconsciously killed them in another way. Hence, they had withered, sucked the life out of that nt.

    Marse squatted down, reaching for the withered leaves. She had simply touched it when the leave was disintegrated into powder.

    "How scary," shemented, chuckling in amusement. "No wonder Marse is itching to kill her. Oh, Marse. Your brother found an interestingdy to take home. How exciting."

    The side of her eyes squinted as her lips stretched from ear to ear. A glint flickered across her eyes, anticipating things in the distant future.

    "She''s giving me a sliver of hope," Marse whispered happily, watching the rest of the nts that were on the same flowerbed wither. "I don''t want to repeat and go back from the start again. I hope this is thest one."

 Chapter 561 The Royal Decree

    <strong>Meanwhile, in thevish entrance hall of the House Vandranбн</strong>

    "What did you just say?"

    Aries''s mouth fell open as soon as the royal messenger read the royal decree out loud. She turned to Dexter, who was kneeling beside her as they received the royal decree. By the way his eyes dted and how his jaw dropped, she instantly knew Dexter knew nothing about it.

    Dexter raised his head in disbelief. "What did you say?" he repeated the same question to the royal messenger Abel sent.

    "It''s a royal order sealed by the emperor." The messenger showed them the document, holding it on the top. "Lady Danie was a candidate to be the emperor''s empress. And thus, she must hasten and move to the Imperial Pce in two weeks'' time."

    The royal messenger then closed the document in his hand. He stood straight, eyes on Aries and Dexter, who were kneeling on the floor as they received the royal decree; a custom they must abide by in the presence of a royal decree signed by the emperor.

    "Acknowledge the emperor''s benevolence!"

    Dexter frowned, his jaw tightening. "Long live the Emperor. We acknowledge His Majesty''s generosity. My sister shall leave in two weeks to the imperial pce."

    "It is our house''s honor to receive His Majesty''s generosity," Aries continued humbly, making the royal messenger nod in satisfaction.

    The royal messenger nced at Gustav, the head butler of the House Vandran. He then handed the document, which Gustav received with a bow.

    "A royal carriage will fetch thedy two weeks from now. That will be all." He tilted his head, turned on his heel, and walked away with the small unit of royal knights traveling with him.

    Aries raised her head, staring at the group of royal knights escorting the royal messenger to leave the manor. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, turning her attention to Dexter. The marquess remained in his position.

    "Brother," she called softly, snapping Dexter back from his trance. "Are you alright?"

    "Of course I am." Dexter cleared his throat, assisting himself up. He then offered his hand for Aries to sp, pulling her up to her feet. The servants of the House Vandran were still bowing, standing, and forming a beeline on either side of the carpet where the marquess and his sister stood.

    "It''s a little surprising, but I had seen iting. Although not this soon," he exined, forcing a smile on his face while staring at her squarely. Dexter then nted a hand on top of her head, patting it gently.

    "Were you d to hear the news?"

    "Not really," Aries murmured. "Because that means I''ll see you less."

    His eyes softened, retracting his hand from her. "This will be good for our house. You might meet more candidates who were chosen by the royal court, but do not forget you have the aristocratic faction as your solid supporter. I got your back."

    ''You and I know ?the candidates were solely for formality,'' Aries answered inwardly, pursing her lips into a thin line.<sub> </sub>

    "It''s good news. Cheer up." Dexter pinched her cheek mildly and then looked around at the servants. His lips stretched ear to ear. "We''ll prepare a simple celebration. My sister might be the next empress of this empire."

    He paused, sensing the raising silent energy from the servants. Compared to him, the servants were thrilled about the news. It was obvious from the twinkle in their eyes.

    "Our house will be busy for the following days. Stay on your toes."

    "Yes, my lord!" the servants answered in unison; their voices echoing across the entire manor. Their lips stretched from ear to ear, hoping Aries would be the next empress, as she was the perfect candidate for the position.

    With that being said, everyone dispersed to execute the orders. None of them wanted to waste a second. Some escorted Aries back to her room. Others, on the other hand, went to prepare for the dinner banquet tonight.

    As they all went away, Dexter stayed in his spot. After a minute, Gustav approached him from the side. The head butler handed the royal decree politely, which Dexter picked up and read himself.

    Dexter only needed to skim through the document. The royal messenger wasn''t lying. Aries was chosen as a candidate to be the next empress.

    "So this is how they found a way to keep her close, huh?" he mumbled, thinking Abel and Conan probably had a long discussion about this.

    After all, if Aries simply lived in the imperial pce, she would be nothing but a mistress in the eyes of the public. Even if they didn''t care much about the public opinion with Abel''s already tarnished reputation, the game was different if Aries was involved.

    These men, Abel, Conan, and Dexter didn''t have that long of patience to ignore any nder regarding Aries. By going this route, the public wouldn''t have anything to say much, since this would be akin to a game fordies.

    Who would capture the emperor''s heart? And who would be the next empress?

    There was already a winner even before they thought about this idea. Even so, Dexter felt conflicted about it.

    "Are you alright, my lord?" asked Gustav after a minute of nothing but silence, staring at Dexter who was reading the document silently.

    Dexter folded the document and faced Gustav. "Of course," he smiled, which didn''t reach his eyes. "Why wouldn''t I? I willingly sent her to the Maganti. This is nothing"

    Gustav kept his mouth shut, lowering his head when Dexter waved. Thetter walked away, saying nothing anymore, while Gustav raised his head. The heat butler stared at Dexter''s back with worry in his eyes.

    ''You send her to thatnd, but willingly followed her,'' was what Gustav wanted to tell Dexter, but kept it to himself.

    Little did Dexter know it wasn''t just Gustav who was staring at his retreating figure. Leaning against the pir on the corner of the entrance hall, Marse scoffed with her arms crossed.

    "What an interesting rtionship we have here."

 Chapter 562 Love Was Not A Feeling, It Was A Choice.

    The news that the emperor was looking for a wife spread across the entire continent faster than anyone could imagine. Houses that received the royal invitations celebrated having the chance to be the empress of this wealthy empire and power just second to the emperor.

    Regardless of the emperor''s reputation, it was crystal clear his title as a tyrant didn''t matter. Princesses from other countries took the long journey, carrying their own agenda. Nobledies in the empire spent day and night preparing for their trip to the imperial pce.

    It was a golden opportunity no one would want to miss. After all, the royal court had been pressuring the emperor to take in an empress. Now that Abel agreed after so long, they had invited candidates for a fairpetition.

    Choosing one on the get-go would be gued by ridiculous rumors, which would be an inauspicious start for the empress. No one would oppose the idea of thedy in the Vandran bing the empress if not for the fact it would be her second marriage. Still, to appease the marquess, the royal court still invited Aries to be one of the candidates.

    With that being said, while everydy was busy dolling up and preparing their best dresses, the only candidate who wasn''t bothered by it was none other than Aries. Although the servants in the House Vandran had been restless, Aries would spend most of her time in the greenhouse with Marse.

    "Disappearбн" Aries narrowed her eyes, almost drilling a hole in the nt in front of her, but to no avail. "Come on. Disappearбн!"

    Marse was wearing a poker face while staring at Aries across from her. Her under-eye twitched. Witnessing something stupid, she was speechless.

    "Abracadabra? Hocus pocus?"

    "That''s it." Marse mmed her hand against the round, marbled table. Aries flinched in surprise, snapping out of her focus, eyes shaking at Marse. "Abracadabra? Hocus Pocus? Did you think you''re a magician? If so, why are we even here and not in a circus?"

    Aries pursed her lips into a thin line. "It''s so hard to make it disappear."

    "I didn''t ask you to erase it. What I said is you have to make it disappear from here to its original ce." Marse rolled her eyes.

    "I''m doing my best, alright?"

    "Look." Marse let out another long-suffering sigh. She plucked out a leaf from the pot, cing it on top of the magic circle. Her lips moved, but Aries didn''t hear her voice.

    Aries''s pupil dted when the leaf floated up in the air ever so slowly. The higher the leaf goes, the more wide Aries''s mouth opened. When Aries was looking up, a me appeared on the leaf out of nowhere. She watched it burn into ashes, watching the ash fall elegantly.

    "Beautiful," she murmured in awe, raising her hand over the table. She opened her palm, catching the residue of the leaf. "It really burnedбн"

    "It didn''t." Marse watched Aries look back at her with wide eyes, puckering her lips towards the pot. "I just returned it to its original ce."

    Aries moved her gaze towards the nt pot. To her surprise, the stem where Marse pluck the leaf returned to how it originally was. Now, her mouth fell open once more, eyes twinkling in amusement.

    "Amazing." Her eyes sparkled as she looked back at Marse. "Master, teach me how you did that."

    Marse ground her teeth, stopping herself from smacking Aries in the head. "I was teaching you already, but you kept spewing abracadabra, remember?"

    "Rightбн" Ariesughed awkwardly, recalling she was here to learn and Marse was simply showing her an example.

    "What a hopeless student." Marse shook her head. "And here I thought we already had progressed on the first day."

    "Are you sure they withered because of me? I think those nts wither easily with the slightest change in atmosphere."

    "Don''t start with me, Ram."

    "Yes, ma''am. My apologies."<sub> </sub>

    "Do it again."

    "Yes."

    Marse clicked her tongue, watching Aries let out a sharp breath. Thetter closed her eyes and drew another deep breath. When Aries breathed out, she set her focus on the nt pot once again until her eyes narrowed.

    At this point, Marse could not help but wonder why Aries was narrowing her eyes. After all, she didn''t need to do that at all by doing a simple spell.

    Marse crossed her arms and leaned back, keeping quiet to give Aries the peace she needed. She had already proposed to be Aries''sdy-in-waiting since an empress candidate needed one once they enter the imperial pce. Aries and Dexter agreed since there was nothing they could do anyway. Moreover, Aries didn''t have anyone in mind to take as herdy-in-waiting.

    After some time, Marse''s patience was wearing thin until she could no longer take it.

    "That''s it for today." Her voice snapped Aries back from her focus. "You worked hard."

    Aries frowned. "But I''m not done yet, and it''s too early."

    "You had a banquet to attend, apparently, your own banquet, before you journey to the imperial pce." Marse reminded her in a knowing tone. "Everyone had been eager to please your husband, and here you are. You didn''t even put the slightest powder on your face and those bags under your eyes were growing apparent."

    Aries touched the bags under her eyes with her fingertips. She had been stayingte at night, trying to do a simple spell.

    "Are you this rxed, knowing you''re already married to him?" Marse inquired out of pure curiosity, watching Aries''s brows raise. She smirked. "I''m not sure if you''re naive or simply confident. However, men are fickle. One day, they love you, and then the next second, they''re shoving their sword into another woman''s cave. Don''t becent, sister."

    "So what?" Aries blinked, this time causing Marse''s brows to furrow. The corner of her lips curled up into a subtle smile. "I don''t trust men бк actually, I don''t trust people so easily. However, I trust the people I trust for a reason."

    She paused, setting her eyes on the poisonous nt on top of the table. "If Abel gets tempted, there''s no amount of preparation that could stop him. If he wants to, he would, and that would be his decision." Aries snapped her eyes up and smiled.

    "It might sound banal, but I love him enough to trust him. It''s up to him to break that trust. Moreover, I''m pretty," she humored. "Love is not a feeling, sister. It''s a choice and I choose to trust him, regardless. If he betrays me, whether out of lust or he fell for another, thenбн I''ll walk away silently."

    "Is that so?"

    "Mhm. My priority is to be useful in some ways, so what happened in the coven won''t happen again."

    Marse stared at Aries''s subtle smile and the luster in thetter''s eyes silently. She smiled andughed with her lips closed, shaking her head mildly.

    "Well, I''m on your team." She winked. "I''ll keep an eye on him."

    "You don''t have to." Aries chuckled until her lips were from ear to ear, revealing her pearly white teeth. "Should we continue?"

    "Sure. Just don''t me me if you gette for your own party."

    "I won''t." Aries giggled. "I promise."

    With that being said, Aries and Marse stayed inside the greenhouse until the sun was about to set. And as expected, Aries waste in her own farewell banquet before her journey to the imperial pce the next day as one of the candidates for the empress.

 Chapter 563 You Will Be, For Sure.

    The House Vandran had thrown arge banquet, inviting high-ranking nobles and influential families across the empire. It had been a while since the Marquess of the said house threw a banquet, and hence, many had epted it to congratte Dexter and Aries.

    It was amazing, at least, for Aries, things were amusing. Just several days ago before the news about the emperor''s search for a wife, Aries''s name was involved in a controversy about being cursed.

    But now, after everyone heard about Aries''s disposition, everyone was sending her felicities. Even when she waste for her own banquet, joyful smiles, the great atmosphere, and the carefully selected words to get on her good side surrounded her.

    In turn, Aries also kept her enchanting demure. Her lips, although slight, were cemented into a subtle smile. She had been exchanging tteries with the guests while the orchestra was ying a lovely tune in the background.

    Everyone and everything from guests to the chandelier of the House Vandran''s great hall was elegant. Ladies donned the most beautiful dresses, illuminating the warm sparkle of the chandelier. Men were in their exquisite suits.

    It was almost like it was a celebration before Aries''s coronation. She hadn''t even <strong>''won''</strong> yet, but everyone seemed to assume she already did. No one could me the nobles, though. Although some of them were simply affiliated with the Vandrans due to mutual understanding in politics, it was undeniable Dexter''s connections made him worthy to get in his good graces.

    Just one banquet and many of them could build connections in the upper echelon, they could never in their lifetime. Not to mention, every single individual was useful in different fields. This was simply the Marquess''s way to show off not just his wealth, but also his silent invitation to every guest to support his sister''s journey towards the crown.

    <strong>Or soбн what they all assumed.</strong>

    It was simply Dexter''s way of protecting his sister since this game the emperor had thought of was vicious. Every candidate would fight for the emperor''s affection, and if he favored one бк Aries, to be particr бк that one candidate would be the target of many things.

    Marse rested her arms against the railings from the second floor of the banquet hall. Holding a ss of wine, she looked over the joyous asion. Her eyes instantly caught Aries on the side, surrounded by enthusiastic nobledies.

    "She''s not bad in these things," shemented, smirking. Aries was wearing a blonde wig for tonight, and Marse should admit it quite suit her. "Oh, noblesбн"

    Her brow arched as her gaze veered towards Dexter in the other corner. Noblemen surrounded the marquess, and just like Aries, he was very eloquent in amodating his guests.

    "He looks like he''s about to cry," she muttered with a shortugh. "What an amusing pair."

    Marse sipped from the winess, enjoying the music dominating the air. She stayed on the second floor since she didn''t n on joining the festivity. It wasn''t like they didn''t know the oue. The name of the empress was already carved and everything from the start was simply formalities.

    "What a waste of everyone''s time," she hissed, gulping the liquor down her throat. "But well, I must admit, his fixity of purpose is admirable. He does consider the history of thisnd with mindfulness бк oh? Where is she going?"

    Marse raised her brows, following Aries''s figure as she walked across the hall. She looked around and noticed Dexter had disappeared from the banquet hall.

    "Am I the only one who wished for some forbidden love affair here?" she chortled, her smirk appeared twisted. "But well, that fantasy is only fun when you''re the one watching and not the person involved in such a twisted affair."<sub> </sub>

    <strong>**********</strong>

    Aries left the banquet hall when she noticed Dexter was nowhere in sight. Hence, she excused herself, waltzing through the hallway, only to reach the private sitting room where she saw him enter.

    Standing in front of the shut door, Aries drew a deep breath. She raised a hand and knocked mildly.

    "It''s me, brother," she announced softly, and waited for several seconds before adding, "I''ll enter now."

    Aries waited for more seconds before reaching for the doorknob and pushing it open. As soon as she did, she caught Dexter standing in front of the window. His one hand was behind him, and the other was on the front, holding a winess.

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips, closing the door carefully behind her.

    "The night is still young. You can''t stay here for long." Her voice pierced the still air, stopping in the middle of the sitting room. "Is there something wrong, brother?"

    Dexter turned on his heel and faced her squarely with a subtle smile dominating his face.

    "Nothing''s wrong. I simply want a moment of time alone since I am not fond of banquets," he exined, twirling the ss in his hand. "What about you? Did you leave the banquet because you''re worried about me?"

    Aries frowned, marching towards the divan. "I also need to breathe a little since the hypocrisy of the nobles is suffocating," she intoned while plopping her butt down the divan.

    "You won''t mind if I seek refuge here, will you?" she arched a brow, making him chuckle.

    "Of course not." Dexter sauntered towards the armchair across from her, sitting leisurely with a hiss. "But you should make a good impression on them. Although everything is simply for formality, it''s still good to have them on your back. The other candidates came from distinguished families across the continent. Therefore, we cannot know for sure what they were capable of."

    "Well, even if I am the Marquess''s sister, everyone will not easily forget that this would be my second marriage. No matter how well-connected I am, people will oppose it, obviously." She smiled, raising her foot to rest over the other. "In other words, I''m the underdog and not a threat. The only reason I was invited was that the imperialist needed to appease my brother."

    Dexter bent over, resting his arms on his spread thighs, the ss in the middle. "It''s the imperial pce, Dani."

    "I know." Aries kept her smile. "It''s the ce where my husband lives. I will be fine."

    "I know you will be," he breathed out, lowering his eyes. "You will be, for sure."

 Chapter 564 A Brothers Sentiments

    Aries remained silent, observing Dexter''s demure. Ever since the royal messenger announced Aries''s candidacy, Dexter had been acting oddly. It wasn''t like he changed, but the air he exuded felt different.

    Dexter didn''t oppose the royal decree and even threw arge banquet. Still, Aries had always felt unsettled, as if he was distancing himself from her.

    "Don''t you want me to go?" she blurted out under her breath, watching him raise his head.

    "No." He shook his head the moment he locked eyes with her. "Of course not."

    "Then, what''s the problem?" she inquired without beating around the bush. "Ever since that day, you start distancing yourself from me. Itбн hurts watching you go farther and farther."

    Silence descended in the private sitting room as they looked at each other. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, lowering his eyes until he was staring at the ss in his hand.

    "I had always known you will eventually leave the stronghold and return to the imperial pce." He broke the silence with his low baritone voice. "Believe me or not, I am d that you will stay by his side. I know you truly cherished him, and he, too, values you more than anything in this world. I''ve been by his side for years and I know he is sincere."

    "However, the sheer thought that I wouldn''t see you just as much as before bereaved me. This ce had always been so dull before you stepped foot in here," he continued bitterly. "Selfish as it may sound, but that''s the truth. It was a mere personal dilemma, which I should''ve prepared for since I had always known this would happen sooner orter."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. Her eyes softened as she kept her gaze on him. However, she couldn''t say anything that was enough to console him. She didn''t n to oppose this proposition since she had always wanted to stay with Abel.

    "Do you know why I stayed here instead of heading straight to the Rose Pce?" she spoke after minutes of silence, smiling subtly. "Because a part of me wants to stay beside you just for a little longer. I didn''t know at that time, but now, I am certain."

    Her lips stretched slightly, watching him raise his head. "I want you to be happy for me. I know you are already, but I don''t want you to be sad. When we first met as an instructor and a student, I had always thought highly of you. But after everything that had happened that led us to this familial rtionship, I''m d you agreed with Sir Conan''s proposition."

    "Because if you didn''t, I don''t think I would ever get the chance to feel this way again. I don''t think I will ever feel disheartened to the point I had to hold my tears back, because I am leaving home," she continued softly. "This ceбн youбн even though the time I was here was fleeting, I had always felt this was the ce I grew up to."

    "Thank you for loving me as if I am your real sister." She bowed, and then slowly raised her head, shing him a bright smile. "Even if I enter the imperial pce, I will always visit you. I''m good at sneaking in and out, remember? So, don''t be so sad because, at the end of the day, you''ll always be my brother."

    Dexter''s eyes softened as he smiled subtly at her. "At this point, I feel like a father who will send my daughter to another man''s home."

    "You do act and speak like a father," she quipped, sniffing hard despite that her eyes kept her tears at bay. "But we never had this moment, right? It feels differentбн uniquely saddening and reassuring at the same time."

    "Indeed." He rocked his head, chuckling dryly. "Be careful when you''re there, Dani. I will visit the Imperial Pce when I can, so you do not have to sneak out."

    "Make sure you visit me, else I will." She narrowed her eyes, pouting. "Don''t ever act like I am a stranger, or I will surely punish you."<sub> </sub>

    "How will you punish me?" heughed, and hisughter grew louder when she frowned, unable to think of any punishments.

    "You''ll get a piece of me," she threatened, raising her chin up. "Just because I have a soft spot for my brother doesn''t mean you can disregard my warnings. I''m telling you, take care of yourself. Stop overworking yourself just because you are capable, handsome, and wealthy. Who would look after me if you get sick?"

    Dexter chuckled, staring at her while she rambled on and on. His heart softened as she listed down his bad habits, smiling subtly. Moments like this were enough proof that time was fleeting.

    He couldn''t help but recall the day she stepped foot in the manor. It felt like it had just happened yesterday. Who would have thought? That his rtionship with her, which was fake, to begin with, turned into a real sibling connection?

    ''If only you knowбн how I wished Danie was like you,'' he thought bitterly. ''She doesn''t even know my favorite food or anything. And yet, youбн couldn''t stop saying the things I yearned to hear from my own sister. Surely, blood doesn''t mean family. And youбн?''

    Aries suddenly halted, scrunching her nose up. "Are you listening to me?" she pped, snapping him back to the currentpse.

    "You are my only family, Dani," he remarked, causing lines on her forehead. "Whatever happens, if you need anything, just call me and I''ll be there for you. Always be mindful in the imperial pce. That ce was never a safe ce for anyone, even for the emperor."

    Aries pursed her lips. "I know that."

    "Don''t forget," he stressed solemnly. "Youбн are my sister. I won''t let anyone trample my only family. So, always keep your chin up high and be proud. Go crazy if you must. I''ll clean things up for you."

    "Even if it''s murder?"

    "Even if it''s murder," Dexter repeated while rocking his head.

    "Bad influenceбн" Aries narrowed her eyes suspiciously while heughed. "You are such a bad influence on someone like me."

    "I never said I wasn''t." He shrugged, patting his thigh before standing up. Dexter offered his hand, smiling charmingly. "Shall we go back to the banquet hall?"

    Aries blinked twice, staring at his charming smile. For some reason, Dexter''s demeanor changed to how it usually was. She studied him for several more seconds and nodded.

    ''Well, it seems he alreadye into terms with his dilemma,'' she thought, sping his hand with a bright smile. With that being said, the two of them returned to the banquet hall to enjoy the rest of the night.

 Chapter 565 [Bonus Chapter]Took You Awhile

    "I thought there''s only one party in the manor. I didn''t know there''s also a bonfire!"

    Marse approached the head butler, who was standing in front of a furnace. She went out of the banquet hall to get some fresh air, only to see Gustav in the back of the kitchen, burning things in an open tin barrel.

    "Mydy." Gustav turned and bowed at Marse. Thetter stopped beside him, holding a winess while crossing her arms.

    "What is this?" she asked out of in curiosity, eyes on the mes inside the furnace. "Shoes?"

    "They''re Lady Danie''s possession," exined Gustav as he faced the furnace.

    "Ram''s?" Marse arched a brow, casting Gustav a quick look. The butler''s expression didn''t change, keeping his silence and eyes on the mes. But despite his unchanging demeanor, she got the answer she needed.

    "The real one, huh?" she muttered, rocking her head in understanding. "Will it be a waste of energy to ask why you are burning the memories of the dead? Instead of the Marquess doing so?"

    Gustav kept quiet for the next minute, eyes still on the mes. He didn''t know this woman that much, but he didn''t find her repulsive despite her prying questions.

    "Thanks to Lady Aries, the Marquess doesn''t have to hold on to the bitter memories of the past," said Gustav after another minute of nothing but silence. "Therefore, I am burning anything that might remind him of what he considers as his failure."

    "You won''t get in trouble for acting without his permission, will you?"

    "They were in my possession for a reason." His answer was quick, but his tone was calm. "The organization the marquess was involved with in the past had killed my brother. In return, I had always thought of killing his sister."

    "An eye for an eye. Sounds rational."

    "I didn''t realize his sister was suffering from a sickness. Yet, she never treated her brother correctly. She med everything on his brother, even though the Marquess had always put his life in danger just to provide for her," Gustav continued, recalling the time when Dexter didn''t have a mansion or wasn''t swimming in luxury.

    Back then, Dexter, a capable hunter, couldn''t even buy a pair of shoes. He remitted every dime he earned from the hunting organization to Danie. But that woman, who had been sick all her life, just wanted one thing: that was for Dexter to suffer just as much as her.

    "I had always thought of killing him or his sister, but killing them was mercy. So I stood on the side, watching him suffer as his sister torments him. When her health continued to deteriorate and was on the brink of death, I turned her," he added.

    Marse chuckled. "You turned her so she will continue to torment him? Aren''t you a little twisted? I like you."

    "She was a selfish woman."

    "What did she do when she wasn''t sick anymore?"

    Gustav remained silent for a moment. "She desired the throne."

    "Oh? Ambitious."

    "Despite that, the Marquess never despised her. She''s his only family and had devoted his life to her." Gustav''s eyes had softened. "But now, he finally had a family who cherished him the way he deserved. Therefore, there''s no need for these things to exist."

    Marse smacked her lips with her brows raised. "That took you a while."

    "Indeed, mydy." Gustav slowly set his eyes on her. "What about you, mydy? Why are you here?"<sub> </sub>

    Marse shrugged. "A breath of fresh air."

    "In the empire."

    "Well, since you are so honest, I''ll tell you," Marse smirked as she set her eyes back on the furnace, tossing her winess in it, causing the mes to dance wildly. "It''s myst option. If I failed hereбн I will bury myself alive."

    "Please look after thedy once she''s within the imperial pce."

    She nced at him with an arched brow. "Don''t you trust my brother?"

    "It is not His Majesty that I do not trust, but the type of people he invited into the empire."

    "Well, you''re lucky I need your beloved mistress." Marse nonchntly shrugged again, staring at the mes solemnly. "Thest thing I want is others dying our lectures."

    Gustav smiled."That sounds reassuring."

    "She''s loved and needed. Isn''t she a little lucky? How ironic."

    "For a witch?"

    "Lucky for a witch." Her eyes sharpened, listening to the crackle of the furnace. "In some ces, once a woman is branded as a witch, no amount of good deed was enough to change people''s minds. They might put a smile on their face, only to stab you once you lower your guards."

    "That isбн human nature."

    Marse snorted. "Human natureбн humans are far more cruel than the monsters they called."

    "They are already pitiful enough." Gustav smiled subtly. "You just need to extend your patience and understanding."

    "Not going to happen," Marse smirked, cocking her head to the side as she set her eyes on Gustav. She sniffed and grinned. "You are an interesting butler. It baffles me how a high-ranking pureblood is ying a butler role."

    "It was a long story, mydy."

    "Well, time is the only thing I possess." She shrugged, wiggling her brows. "The banquet was a dull ce to be in. I''d rather listen to your story than listen to their gossip. They drag my intelligence, elegance, and peace down."

    Gustav chuckled, raising his head as he noticed a dark raven flying down in their direction. He raised an arm, and in a second, Morronded on his arm.

    "My, my. What do we have here?" Her eyes glinted with intrigued, smirking at the raven on Gustav''s arm.

    Morro looked at Gustav, only to see thetter smile. When he returned his eyes back to Marse, he spread his wings to fly away. However, just as his feet left Gustav''s arm, Marse grabbed his foot.

    "Not so fast, Raven." Her smirk stretched wider while Morro looked down. A diabolical chuckle came out of her lips when Morro fluttered his wings but to no avail. "Don''t worry. I''m not nning on roasting you. I''m just curious. What sort of demon are you?"

 Chapter 566 [Bonus Chapter]Digging His Own Grave

    <strong>The next dayбн</strong>

    Luxurious carriages could be seen everywhere in the capital of the Haimirich Empire. Carrying the insignia of their noble houses, most of them headed to one ce: the Imperial Pce. Everyone had already heard the news, and thus, many onlookers could not help but ogle at the parades of beauty heading to the imperial pce.

    Meanwhile, within the Imperial Pce, while most servants were busy unloading the luggage of the nobledies who were invited to the imperial pce, they gathered the candidates in the royal great hall.

    Ladies were lined proportionately, making at least ten rows on each side. In each row stood five nobledies, donning their beautiful dresses to leave a great impression on the emperor.

    The ambiance of the great throne hall was the right mixture of different emotions. Excitement dominated the pretty faces of somedies, while others showed reluctance. There weredies who seemed to have other motives, such as trying to connect with the strongest candidates. There were also other candidates who remained silent, either from nervousness or simply distracted, like Aries.

    ''Abracadabra.'' Aries held her breath as she stared at the skirt of thedy standing in front of her. She was in thest row on the right, near the corner. Thedies had nearly fought over who gets to stand in the first row, but Aries happily took thest where the emperor could barely see her.

    Well, Aries only came because it was a royal decree.

    A deep exhale slipped past her lips when the dangling jewelry of thedy before her didn''t move at all. She had been trying to keep her mind focused as per Marse бк Aries'' mentor бк orders. She didn''t want this entire fiasco to distract her since her motive was to be useful to her husband and not marry him the third time.

    "His Majesty, the Emperor has arrived! Pay respect to the only sun of the empire!"

    Ladies stood with poise when a knight announced the emperor''s arrival. They curtsied in unison, carrying themselves with grace. After a second, several footsteps were heard as Abel entered the great throne hall. Behind him were a few knights, who scattered around and took their posts.

    The emperor''s legal advisor halted on the first step of the step-up while Abel sat down on his throne. Thetter raised his foot, resting his ankle on top of his leg. Abel reclined, bearing a dull expression, propping his jaw against his knuckles.

    "Raise your head," said Conan with a raised voice, which the candidates did. His eyes glossed over thedies'' faces, and he could tell they carried their most beautiful smiles.

    "As you all know, you were chosen candidates to be the empress of this great nation!" Conan stated firmly. "The royal court had put a lot of effort into categorizing those who were fitting to wear the crown and lead this empire alongside our beloved emperorбн!"

    Conan went on and on for the next ten minutes regarding the setup of this petition.'' Everyone listened, even Aries kept her ears open. However, while most of thedies'' eyes were on Conan, Aries kept her eyes on Abel.

    ''He seemed to be in a terrible mood,'' she thought, tilting her head to the side. ''He shouldn''t just be looking in my direction so openly. If thesedies think I''m seducing him, they''ll give me a hard time.''

    Aries lowered her head to hide from Abel''s gaze. She looked around cautiously lest someone had already noticed it. Only when she realize everyone''s attention was on Conan''s did Aries heave a sigh of relief.

    ''This is quite nerve-racking.'' She patted her chest, letting out a sharp breath.

    Meanwhile, Abel frowned when Aries lowered her head. It wasn''t enough for her to stand on the farthest line, but now she was purposely hiding. Her presence and the sight of her were the only good thing that happened today, and yet, she was hiding.<sub> </sub>

    "And as such, we will бк" Conan abruptly halted when Abel spoke.

    Thedies, who kept their focus on Conan for the reason they were eager to win or too scared to look at the emperor, instinctively set their eyes on the man sittingnguidly on the throne. Somedies, who had never seen the emperor, had their mouths agape. Others, who were brave enough to sneak a look at him, could not help but admire him.

    The emperorбн was indeed sinful. He was sinfully beautiful. His beauty alone could capture any maiden''s heart with just one look.

    "This sideбн" Abel pointed at the column ofdies opposite Aries. "... tell them to go home."

    "What?" Conan scrunched his nose up, looking at Abel in dismay.

    "Those who were in the first row are all ugly. Thus, those behind them are the same," exined Abelzily, not bothering to even make up a reasonable lie.

    "But Your Majesty бк"

    "How can I have an empress who will stand beside me when I can''t even look at her face?" Abel arched a brow, cocking his head to the side.

    The ridiculous insult thedies received mortified everyone. They gasped, rendered speechless at His Majesty''s remark. But Abel was not in the mood to y.

    "The next time I repeat myself, it will cost a limb." Abel waved, smirking deviously at thedies, who unluckily didn''t stand on the same side as that particr someone.

    ''Goodness, gracious!'' Conan let out a long-suffering sigh before he casts the knights a look. "Escort thedies outside the premises. If any of themined or caused trouble, cut off their tongues."

    "What?" Aries''s breath hitched as her pupils dted in horror. She gazed at thedies standing on the other side, and obviously, every single one of them looked at Conan nkly. But it was effective since they all voluntarily exited the throne hall without making a side.

    As thestdy left, the atmosphere in the throne hallpletely changed. Some were pleased that there was lesspetition since they were immediately reduced in half in their first ten minutes in this great throne hall, while it mortified others.

    Conan let out a sharp breath and studied thedies who were left behind. Dismissing half of the candidates today wasn''t in their ns, but it didn''t really affect them.

    ? "Those on thest row, fill the empty spots on this side," Conan raised his voice upon catching Aries hiding in thest row. <strong>''He should''ve just told me he wanted to see her instead of dismissing everyone!''</strong>

    Conan harrumphed internally, ncing at Abel, who was now smiling from ear to ear as Aries was forced to stand in the front, where he could see her clearly. Meanwhile, Aries frowned, almost ring daggers at Abel.

    ''Will you look at him?'' Conan snorted inwardly. ''I told him multiple times not to show favoritism, so Lady Aries wouldn''t have a hard time. Tch! Nevermind! He''s digging his own grave.''

 Chapter 567 Introductions Of Princesses

    When half of the candidates who remained in the great throne hall took up the space on the left side of the ce, Conan continued to brief everyone. Apparently, the candidates would be eliminated throughout this journey since there was only one spot for the empress.

    Each candidate was selected based on their birthright, the noble family they came from, their reputation, upbringing, and their achievements; every candidate couldn''t be underestimated. They were all women with not just grace and elegance, but with minds capable of leading an empire.

    Their performance and the results of their work would be the basis if they were worthy of the crown.

    As Aries listened to Conan''s exnation, she couldn''t help but nce at thedies around. She didn''t know whether to admire thesedies or feel ashamed of herself. To break down Conan''s remarks, what they were looking for was someone who could help the emperor in maintaining the peace and prosperity of the Haimirich Empire.

    Never did Conan indirectly or directly say they should love the emperor or capture his heart. Not that she wanted someone to fight for Abel''s affection, but the remaining candidates seemed to have no intention of iming the emperor''s heart бк most of them, perhaps.

    "That being said, you will receive a district that will be under your care temporarily in the following daysбн" Conan continued while Aries shifted her attention to the man sitting on the throne.

    Abel was still sitting in azy posture with his jaw propped against his knuckles, ankle on top of his leg, eyes on her. From this distance, he looked like he was simply zoning out and not staring at a particr candidate, but Aries knew he hadn''t taken his eyes off of her.

    ''I wonder what is he nning now?'' she wondered, lowering her eyes.

    "You are scheduled to join the emperor for luncheon. The servants will escort you to the Hyacinth Pce to rest," Conan instructed. "You will stay in the Hyacinth Pce throughout your stay on the imperial pce groundsбн"

    "Something wrong?" Conan trailed off when Abel''szy voice came through. He looked back at the emperor, only to see thetter staring in a direction.

    The candidates slowly followed where Abel was staring andnded in the first row on the left. s, they were unsure who was the recipient of that question. Aries and the rest, who were standing in the first row, looked at each other in puzzlement. After several seconds, all of them looked back in the emperor''s direction.

    "Your Majesty, who are you asking to?" Conan asked nervously, watching Abel point a finger in Aries''s direction.

    "Her." Aries''s breath hitched, only to heave a sigh of relief when Abel added, "the one on the back. She looked like she''s about to pass out."

    "Ahhбн" Conan stretched his neck up, catching a woman behind Aries, who was sweating profusely with a paleplexion.

    "Summon a physician and get her checked. You had only arrived in the imperial pce and I understand you were exhausted from a long journey." Abel peeled his foot from his leg and straightened his back. His expression was solemn, and from everyone''s perspective, he was untouchable, distant, and intimidating. "Escort them all to their lodging. Move the luncheon from the inner pce to the Hyacinth Pce."

    As soon as thest syble slipped out of Abel''s lips, he nted his hands on the throne''s armrest and pushed himself up. Without a word, he turned on his heel and sauntered off wordlessly.

    Conan let out a deep exhale and faced the candidates. ''I guess he already had the daily dose of his wife.''

    "You heard the emperor and his consideration," Conan spoke louder, his voice echoing. "Take care of your health. The empire needs a strong and healthy empress."<sub> </sub>

    He didn''t ramble on and on as he ordered the knights to escort the candidates to the Hyacinth Pce, where they would dwell throughout their stay. No one cared about thedy who passed out on their way to the Hyacinth Pce. Aries didn''t bother since there were knights with them who took the poordy to the infirmary.

    The candidates were led to the spacious sitting room to rest. They were split into four groups бк fivedies each бк so it wouldn''t be too crowded.

    In the sitting room Aries was in, she sat around the oak table with three other nobledies. Since one of thedies passed out, there were only four of them in the room.

    Aries sipped her tea silently, ncing at thedies around her. They had been in here for five minutes now, but none of them ever spoke a word.

    ''I feel like I''m in a harem,'' she thought, cing the teacup back on the saucer. ''Wellбн I never n to befriend everyone. I am here for another reason.''

    "I didn''t have the courage to speak with you earlier, but I had heard a lot about you, Lady Vandran."

    Suddenly, thedy sitting right beside Aries broke the prolonged silence in the room. Aries turned to her left, her eyesnding on thedy''s beautiful smile. Thetter had curly ginger hair, freckles all over her face, a small nose, thick eyshes, and deep brown eyes. She looked like a sweetheart, bubbly and easy to get along with.

    "Allow me to introduce myself." Thedy giggled, seeing the puzzlement in Aries''s eyes. "I am Suzanne Crook, the 16th daughter of the King of Topia."

    Aries stared at Suzzanne''s bright grin. "It was a pleasure to be your acquaintance, Your Highness."

    "The 16th daughter of the king of Topiaбн" ady from across from them snorted. "... I heard a lot about you too, Your Highness."

    Aries and Suzanne looked at thedy across from them. There, ady with long jet-ck hair looked at Suzanne with apparent ridicule in her eyes. Her eyes were thin and sharp. She had a small and almost pore-less face.

    "How rude of me to jump into your conversation without an introduction. The name is Veronika Barkridge, fourth daughter of the Chivisea Dynasty and also the overseer of Phicia District under the orders of the crown prince," Veronika introduced herself proudly, keeping her eyes directly at Suzanne. "It''s nice to meet you, Your Highness."

    She then shifted her eyes to Aries, smiling amicably at her. "It''s an honor to sit at the same table as you, mydy."

    "I''mбн I''mбн Sybil Denholm from the smallnd, Nuirus." Aries, Suzanne, and Veronika turned on the otherdy around the table, only to see Sybil smile awkwardly at them. Her voice was meek and shy. "I thought we''re doing introductionsбн I''m pleased to meet everyone."

    "..."

    Aries opened and closed her mouth, casting the three princesses a quick look. From her perspective, each of them was unique, but there''s only onemon in all of them. They were all princesses from small kingdoms.

 Chapter 568 Introductions Of Princesses II

    Aries had a good memory. She remembered all thends thesedies came from. Back when she was Abel''s pet, she was forced to follow him everywhere he goes and listen to every discussion he would have. Thosends: Topia, Chivisea, and Nurius were mentioned in the past.

    Thosends were small kingdoms just like Rikhill. Topia and Chivisea had always taunted each other and the tension in recent years kept increasing. The only reason those two kingdoms hadn''t waged a war with each other was because of the Haimirich Empire.

    It might sound like the Haimirich Empire was acting as the mediator between two kingdoms. The story differed greatly from what it looked like.

    Abel had always eyed those kingdoms because of their natural resources. Knowing the Haimirich Empire and the tyrant emperor, both kings had to rule out the idea of a war, afraid Abel would take advantage of the tension. Abel had no morals, after all.

    For Chivisea and Topia to send a princess into the empire meant the rtionship between Haimirich, Chivisea, and Topia had progressed into a friendly diplomatic rtionship. Aries wasn''t updated anymore since she got busy dealing with the Maganti Empire and was now preupied with a personal thing called witchcraft.

    Meanwhile, thend of Nurius was and Aries was so familiar with. Nurius and Rikhill had a tight rtionship. Nurius sent reinforcement for Rikhill during their war against the Maganti Empire. It was one of the very few countries that supported thend of Rikhill when everyone else turned their backs on them.

    As far as Aries knew, thend of Nurius was implicated and struggled because of the king''s decision to help Rikhill. But seeing they sent a princess in here, it seemed they managed to get out of the crisis with the Haimirich Empire''s help. Aries was unsure if it was a coincidence or if Abel knew about it.

    Aries kept her eyes on Princess Sybil. Thetter had lowered her head after sensing she made the air a little awkward. She had met a prince бк Sybil''s brother, back when she was a princess in Rikhill. She remembered a conversation with him where he mentioned his little sister, who was very timid and shy. He mentioned her because Aries was the opposite of her.

    ''I guess she''s the one he was talking about,'' Aries thought, smiling subtly.

    "It''s nice to meet you, Your Highness." Aries watched Sybil cautiously raise her head and shed her a kind smile. Sybil''s cheek immediately turned pinkish, smiling awkwardly.

    Suzanne cleared her throat. "Since we''re in the same circle and I think this will be our permanent group. I hope we all work hard and kick those otherdies out." Her lips stretched and her lively tone brought life to the still air.

    "Hahбн at the end of the day, we''re still in apetition," Veronika pointed out. "Work together? With you? Fat chance."

    "I don''t want topeteбн" Sybilmented in a tiny voice, flinching when Veronika cast her a sharp look.

    "I don''t like the types of you," Veronika expressed bluntly. "I had met a lot ofdies who seemed they wouldn''t even swat a fly, only to turn out to be a snake who is only waiting when they will bite."

    Sybil frowned, her eyes immediately turned watery. However, Aries and Suzanne didn''t defend her since they couldn''t trust each other just yet. This could be Sybil''s tactic. Who knows? But that wasn''t the reason Aries didn''t step in.<sub> </sub>

    For Aries, she might be grateful to thend of Nurius, but this was the imperial pce. As long as Sybil wasn''t harmed, she would only look after her but not throw her fist immediately. As selfish as it may sound, Aries''s peace was even more important. She didn''t want to implicate herself and make an enemy to anyone immediately.

    "We still have a few hours before our scheduled lunch with the Emperor. I don''t know what to doбн" Suzanne shifted the discussion with a deep exhale. "Lady Vandran, should we take a stroll together? It is my first time in the empire and in the Imperial Pce. It''s so luxurious and it lived up to its name."

    "I heard Lady Vandran had been sick all her life and is cherished by her brother, the marquess." Veronika chimed in. "Even though her journey was shorter, aren''t you a little inconsiderate to ask her to take a stroll when she could use this time to rest?"

    Suzanne frowned, ring back at Veronika. "Aren''t you taught proper etiquette, Fourth Princess? Or was the rumor that Chivisea was and of barbarians true? Hence, you have no notion of etiquette?"

    "Thend of barbariansбн that is not a rumor, Your Highness," Veronika smirked, unfazed by the insult thrown by Suzanne. "We are barbarians and we do not hesitate to cut a tongue of those who speak ill of ournd."

    "Hahбн" Suzanne scoffed, eyes full of ridicule.

    Aries darted her eyes between Veronika and Suzanne silently. It was obvious the two disliked each other from the get-go; it wasn''t a surprise, though, since the kingdom they came from would sh at every turn. Hence, their opinions of each other were something already etched deep in their bones.

    "I appreciate Your Highness Barkridge''s consideration for my health," Aries spoke with a subtle smile, watching Veronika look back at her before shifting her attention to Suzanne. "I am a little exhausted, and I know each of us was equally exhausted. Still, I would love to take a stroll some other time once we settled in and adjusted to the life in the imperial pce."

    "Then I''ll take that as a promise, mydy." Suzanne smiled warmly at Aries, only to slightly roll her eyes at Veronika. Thetter smirked and shrugged, leaning backfortably.

    "Although we''re in apetition to be the empress, I hope we get along well," Aries continued soothingly. "The Emperor is an unpredictable man, but I''m d I am included in this group. Let''s look after each other for now."

    "Lady Vandran, even if I don''t be the empress, I will be happy if you be one," Sybil chimed once again. "I''m not a strong candidate, so I''ll just curry favor with those who had a higher chance of being the empress!"

    "I''m certain you shouldn''t be saying that aloud." Veronika chuckled in amusement, staring at Sybil, who covered her lips with eyes popped open.

    Aries chuckled as she shook her head. "No. I was merely selected because my brother was upset when the emperor sent me to an unstable empire. I''m lucky to have survived such an unfortunate event, but my first marriage was the proof I lost all the rights to marry the emperor."

    Aries might''ve sounded pretentious since she was married to Abel. However, what she said was nothing but facts. If they were going to follow the empire''s tradition, then Aries was bound to fail thispetition.

 Chapter 569 Potato Now, You Later.

    Hourster, all the candidates headed to the grand dining hall of the Hyacinth Pce. The table was long, with a chandelier sparkling on the top. There were a few small chandeliers to add more elegance to the ce, and windows opened for venttion, filling the air with a mild breeze and the scent of flowers from the garden.

    Since there were no proper arrangements of the seats, those who came first sat nearest the head seat where the emperor would surely sit. Aries and her group camest. Hence, they sat on the farthest seat away from the emperor.

    Silence dominated the dining hall as everyone sat down, waiting for the emperor. Aries could not help but study thedies sitting around the same table.

    ''We haven''t talked yet, but I''m already tired.'' Aries moved her shoulders in a circr motion, which no one noticed. ''Seriously. Can''t he have any other methods? Why is he making our lives moreplicated than it already has?''

    Aries let out a shallow breath, only to arch a brow when she heard ady snicker. She turned her attention to her left, eyesnding on thedy sitting beside the otherdy who sat closest to Abel''s seat.

    "Those poordies were bawling their eyes out. It''s a good thing they hadn''t even unloaded their luggage. At the very least, they save time and can travel back to their homes." Thedyughed heartily and then smirked at the rest of thedies. "We should thank Lady Ivory."

    "And why must we feel grateful towards her?" anotherdy sitting across from Lady Ivory and herckey inquired with an arched brow.

    Theckey, Lady Julienne Storme, a daughter of a Duke in anothernd, eyed the otherdy with mockery. "Of course. Have you forgotten the reason His Majesty sent thosedies away?" She leaned forward and stressed her next words. "They look unpleasant in the eyes. Ugly was the term used."

    "Lady Ivory stood in the front. Hence, she saved us all with just her beauty alone," she added in a knowing tone.

    "Lady Storme, you speak as though Lady Norwood is the only person who stood in the front," the other person, Fatima Wendell, spat back with a smirk. She then cast the rest of thedies a look. "There were four otherdies who stood in the front, including Princess Agnes. Shouldn''t we thank them as well?"

    Princess Agnes, who sat beside Lady Fatima, joined in the conversation solemnly. "From what I see it, what saved us was luck. We simply stood on the side that is far from the emperor''s pointing finger."

    As their conversation continued, Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. She sat on the farthest, but she could already feel the tension building up in the air. She looked to her left where Suzanne was sitting, and then at Sybil, across from her.

    ''This was what a harem will look like,'' shemented inwardly, keeping her silent since she didn''t want to get involved with the nobledies'' elegant banter. Aries just wanted to finish her meal and rest for the rest of the day.

    Minutes had passed and after what seemed to be an eternity, a man outside announced the emperor''s arrival. The chattering in the dining hall instantly subsided withdies sitting with poise. When the door opened, every single one of them stood from their chairs and curtsied towards the entrance.

    As the doors were opened from the outside, Abel halted by the door. His eyes glossed over thedies, who were curtsying right beside their chairs.<sub> </sub>

    He frowned, noticing that Aries sat far from his seat. He remained silent, seeing the vacant seats on Aries''s right. When he snapped his eyes ever so tenderly, he sauntered towards the head seat opposite of where she should be sitting.

    Once he plopped his butt down, he arched a brow at thedies. "Sit down."

    ''Pfft бк!'' Aries cast Suzanne a look as thetter pressed her lips to stop herself fromughing out loud. Thedies had hurried here to sit on the spot closest to where the emperor would sit, but the emperor sat on the opposite head seat.

    Now, the dining table was Abel on the head seat, then several vacant seats on both sides before Aries and Sybil.

    Thedies, who were bantering just moments ago, looked appalled and embarrassed at the same time. However, those who opposed the proud Lady Ivory and Julienne smirked in satisfaction. No one argued or raised anyints as they sat down on the seats gracefully. When they did, the servants came inside the dining hall to serve the bountiful dishes the empire prepared for everyone.

    "The empire is preparing for the drought and, as respect those on the hem of the empire, I proposed we share a humble meal," Abel exined as thedies stared at the different dishes of potatoes. "An empress shan''t only live in luxury, but also bepassionate enough to share the nation''s good and bad days."

    The side of his lips curled up into a friendly smile, eyes lingering on Aries''s side profile. Aries was staring at her te nkly.

    "Please, dig in." Abel raised a hand, encouraging them to eat. "Potatoes might be a humbling staple, but they can sustain a man. Even so, the empire had prepared them into dishes that might suit your expensive tastes."

    Thedies forced a smile on their faces and thanked the emperor for hispassion and consideration. But most of them had to secretly grit their teeth to eat the food served to them. Only a few, such as Aries, Sybil, and Veronika, didn''t have a problem eating the food on their tes.

    Noticing that Suzanne was struggling, Aries felt sorry for her. Thetter was chewing carefully, almost cringing when Suzanne took a small bite as if she was eating something disgusting.

    ''She''s not a bad person, but I can see she was raised pampered,'' Ariesmented inwardly, only to catch Veronika sneer at Suzanne. ''I don''t think our group will be that peaceful with these two pressing each other''s nerves at every opportunity.''

    Another shallow breath slipped past Aries''s mouth and then nced in Abel''s direction when she felt his gaze. Aries held her breath in horror when he raised a baby potato to his lips, eating it with his eyes fixed on her.

    ''Potato now, youterбн'' was what his eyes were telling her.

 Chapter 570 Good Karma

    The lunch with the emperor went well. At least, it ended peacefully with no one speaking a word. The candidates didn''t speak since Abel was speaking; it would be rude to speak without being asked in the presence of the emperor.

    "That is so satisfying."

    Aries turned to Veronika when thetter snickered. They were walking through the hallway, on their way back to the Hyacinth Pce.

    Veronika smirked at Aries. "Don''t you think, Lady Vandran?"

    "Your Highness бк"

    "Veronika." She corrected. "You can just call me Veronika, mydy. After all, I am simply a princess in thend I came from, but in this empire, it is nothing but an empty title."

    "A title is only empty when its holder considers it as empty," Aries argued with a subtle smile, treading carefully. "I''m certain Your Highness is proud carrying that title and the soil she came from everywhere she goes."

    "I am." Veronika chuckled, peeling her eyes away from Aries ahead. "Despite the inner turmoil, I am proud of my soil."

    "I figured."

    "It''s surprising, mydy."

    Aries raised her brows. "What is, Your Highness?"

    "You." Veronika cast Aries a look as her lips stretched even wider. "It is no secret that thedy of the House Vandran is the noblestdy on the continent. The news when you returned to the Capital and your recovery had reached Chivisea."

    "Did it?" Aries nearly gasped in surprise, almost stopping in her steps.

    "It did." Veronika rocked her head, chuckling when she noticed the genuine surprise in Aries''s eyes. "His Majesty had no empress, nor did he have a sister. Therefore, everyone knows that thedy in the House Vandran, the Marquess''s sister, was born to be the noblestdy on the continent."

    "I seeбн"

    "Everyone thought the next news we''d hear was your wedding with the emperor," she continued with a light tone, lowering her eyes. "But sбн the news we heard was not your wedding to the emperor, but to anothernd."

    Veronika pressed her lips into a thin line and gazed at Aries. When she did, Aries was already looking ahead with a smile that hadn''t reached her eyes.

    "We were enraged about it," she confessed, causing lines in between Aries''s brows to appear. Thetter looked back at her, puzzlement was apparent in her eyes. "The Maganti Empire had exploited ournds and pressured us for years бк particrly, that crown prince. Ournd is far from their jurisdiction, but they just came there and imed parts of ournd."<sub> </sub>

    Aries''s mouth fell open, but she couldn''t say anything. She heard nothing about this, but it didn''t surprise her. That was how everything was. Powerful empires such as the Maganti Empire and the Haimirich Empire could go to anynd and im it as theirs.

    Small kingdoms such as Chivisea and Rikhill had only two options: one was to negotiate, which also meant giving up a part of theirnd, and the second, was to wage a full-scale war even though it was more like a suicide mission.

    "I don''t know what happened during your stay in the Maganti Empire, but I''m d you returned in one piece. Thatnd shelters the most twisted people I had known," Veronika added, smiling in relief.

    Aries''s eyes softened as she could feel the sincerity of the princess. Veronika''s facial structures and demeanor made her appear unapproachable, and her constant banter with Suzanne made her appear slightly viinous. However, Veronika wasn''t as bad as she presented herself. She could be very warm.

    Somehowбн Veronika reminded her of Princess Aries Aime Heathcliffe. They would get along well.

    "The crown prince was, indeed, a terrible man." Aries looked ahead, keeping her chin up. "He is the type that if he couldn''t have it, he would get it no matter what. Manynds and people, both inside and outside the Maganti, had suffered greatly because of him."

    "However, during my time in there, I realized the Maganti Empire was simply ruled by terrible men in power," she continued, stopping in her tracks, facing Veronika squarely. "The people were innocent, Your Highness. Everyone is simply trying to survive, and it is not their sin to be born and raised in and ruled by a heartless tyrant."

    Aries looked at Veronika straight in the eye, imparting her realization she had in the Maganti Empire. "Burning an entire kingdom just because its ruler was cruel was just as cruel. If the sovereign was terrible, then change it. There were many ways, Your Highness. I wished the new sovereign of the Maganti wasn''t pressuring you any longer."

    Veronika stared at Aries in silence and smiled weakly. "They were the reason I am here," she confessed. "The Maganti Empire and Chivisea were discussing the damages that they had caused us, and so far, it was doing great. Because of that, they were the ones who rmended me to be a candidate to strengthen our affiliation with the Haimirich Empire."

    "I''m pleased to hear that everything went well for yournd." Aries smiled in satisfaction as her heart warmed up with this news. After the session of the rebellion, she didn''t bother with anything. She trusted Ismael to keep his words ''to realign everything and make things right.''

    Ismael kept his promise, and that alone made her happy. The Rikhill Kingdom and Aries''s family might''ve not been revived, but hearing that other countries didn''t have to experience the same hell thend of Rikhill went through was good enough for Aries.

    Aries resumed in her steps while Veronika stood still. Thetter stared at Aries''s back in silence, and when there was already five steps'' distance between them, Veronika spoke.

    "Thank you for saving Violet, mydy." Aries slowly halted at Veronika''s remarks, looking back at her, wide-eyed. "The new sovereign of the Maganti had told us you''re the one who saved Violet from thatnd. Violet is like a sister to me. Therefore, you have my and the entire Chivisea''s gratitude, mydy."

    Veronika lowered her head, and when she straightened her back, she nted her fist across from her chest like a knight. "I don''t n on bing the empress of the Haimirich Empire, but aside from strengthening our rtionship with the Haimirich Empire, I came here for a reason."

    "His Majesty Ismael asked me for a favor to look after you when he heard about the news," she added solemnly. "I may be a princess, but I am also a trained knight. Use me at your own disposal, mydy."

    Aries''s mouth fell open, rendered speechless by Veronika''s confession. People said what goes aroundes around, and it all applies to good and bad deeds. Sometimes, it would return double or tenfolds.

 Chapter 571 This Is Lame

    Veronika, being a trained knight, wasn''t a surprise. Aries had already noticed Veronika''s light steps. The said princess barely made a sound whenever she walked. But what surprised Aries the most was that Veronika entered the empire under Ismael''s orders.

    It was reckless of Veronika to tell Aries her reasons for entering the empire since she could be considered a spy бк even though that wasn''t Veronika''s intention. Still, a part of Aries was d at Ismael''s gesture.

    After Aries and Veronika chatted, the former told thetter to not let others know about it for the princess''s safety. Veronika already knew that. Hence, they parted on a good note.

    With a bright smile stered on her face, Aries returned to her designated room situated in the farthest wing that all the candidates deemed a terrible area. The Hyacinth Pce wasn''t heavily guarded inside hence, there weren''t many people inside the said ce.

    Aries pushed the door open of the chambers, only to freeze right after. She closed it again, looking from left to right cautiously.

    "Good thing I came here before everyone else," she mumbled, knowing there were a couple more rooms in the hallway for the other candidates. A deep exhale slipped past Aries''s lips, opening the door cautiously.

    When she peeked inside, her face contorted. There, inside, were Marse and Abel, grabbing each other''s neck. The two of them were still strangling each other, but their eyes were on the door where she was.

    ''I was really in a good mood,'' Aries told herself as she stepped foot inside, closing the door behind her. Marching towards the two, she darted her eyes between Marse and Abel.

    "Hello, darling." Abel shed her a coquettish smile while gripping Marse''s neck. "I''ll break her neck real quick and join you for a tea."

    Marse chuckled. "Oh, Ram. Don''t worry. I''ll end him so we can have tea together."

    "..."

    Aries''s face contorted, witnessing the two of them look at each other. Her encounter with Veronika put her in a good mood, only for her to return to her room and witness a murder! Between Abel and Marse, she didn''t know who was the psycho and the victim; they were both psychos.

    <o>,m "Wait." Aries cleared her throat, stretching her hands to Abel''s hand on Marse''s neck. Abel and Marse arched a brow as Aries peeled his fingers around his sister''s neck, only to transfer it to the side of Marse''s head to sp her hair. Aries then wordlessly did the same to Marse, moving thetter''s grip to Abel''s hair.</o>

    "???" Both Marse and Abel tilted their heads to the side, puzzlement apparent in their eyes as they looked at Aries.

    "Don''t kill each other, hmm?" Aries smiled, pleased that instead of strangling each other, they were now grabbing each other''s hair. "Just have a cat fight and then have some tea once you released your frustrations."

    Another deep breath slipped past Aries before she waved, sauntering off to the set of divans in the middle of the chamber. As she did, she smiled at Conan, who was also inside the room, standing near the window.

    "Lady Aries, I don''t know if I shouldmend you for it." Conan walked towards the divan where Aries sat down. "I was actually pretending I am alone here. How was your day so far?"

    Aries smiled, staring at Conan, who perched on the armrest. "Sir Conan, did you have a reason you grouped me with the princesses? I had a brief talk with Princess Veronika, and she said Ismael sent her. Did you hear anything about this?"

    "Well, His Majesty Ismael, did mention in his letter of rmendationбн" Conan rubbed his chin, recalling thest letter he received from Ismael. "... although he didn''t say it directly, but it is no surprise if that is the case. I don''t think he nned to hurt you бк probably, he didn''t want to be forgotten."<sub> </sub>

    While Conan and Aries were engaged in a conversation, Abel frowned. He looked back at Marse, watching her brows elevate.

    "This isme," he muttered, releasing his sister''s hair and thetter also let go of his hair. "I should''ve killed you before she came."

    "That should be my dialogue," Marse snorted, but Abel waved nonchntly to join Aries on the divan. She crossed her arms under her chest, watching Abel sit beside Aries, pulling thetter by the waist to get her attention.

    "Marse was trying to hurt me, darling. How can you ignore me? Your husband, your friend, your partner-in-crime, and now you''re fiance?" Abelined, resting his chin on Aries''s shoulder. "You break my heart."

    Both Conan and Marse scrunched their nose up in dismay, watching Abel gaslight his wife. Aries, on the other hand, let it slip while staring back at his face.

    "My mentor is not that unreasonable," Aries argued softly, making Marse nod in satisfaction. "Even so, I know if you truly want to kill each other, blood had already painted the floor and the walls would''ve already crumbled."

    Aries blinked twice, staring at the frown stered on his face. Knowing Abel, he was purposely fluttering his eyes ever so tenderly in an attempt to look cute. She noticed Marse marching toward the armchair from the corner of her eye while Conan stood from the armrest.

    "Mhmбн" Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, adjusting her seat to face Abel squarely. "I made a friend."

    "A friend?"

    "Mhm! The princess from Chivisea. She was a good friend of Violet and Ismaelбн" she trailed off when Abel patted hisp, making her brows raise in confusion.

    "Tell me about it." He grinned, wiggling his brows yfully. "You''re too far."

    Conan scrunched his nose up while Marse rolled her eyes. Thetter pushed herself from the seat, casting them a dead look.

    "The next time youe in here unannounced, I''ll set you on fire while you are in your sleep," she warned at Abel before she walked away. "Let''s go dearest Conan. Unless you are a masochist who wants to see what they will doter."

    Conan let out a deep exhale, darting his eyes between the mischievous Abel and then the baffled Aries. "See youter, Lady Aries."

    With that being said, Conan and Marse sauntered off. However, they didn''t walk toward the door. Aries furrowed her brows, watching the two approach the shelf. Conan tipped a book, and to Aries''s surprise, the shelf moved, revealing a secret passage.

    "What isбн" she trailed off when Abel spoke.

    "My entrance." Aries looked back at Abel, only to see his triumphant grin. "So I can go in and out of here without worrying my wife that someone will see me."

    "..."

 Chapter 572 Dont Keep Me Waiting

    It did not surprise Aries that Marse was inside her chambers in the Hyacinth Pce. Marse was herdy-in-waiting бк every candidate needed one. However, although she ignored Abel at first, in the back of her head, she was wondering how Abel and Conan were inside her chambers.

    Did anyone notice theming into her room? Those types of questions lingered in her head. But now, she was slightly reassured that Abel had his way to meet Aries secretly.

    Aries perched on Abel''sp as instructed. She rested her arms over his shoulders, staring at his sinful beauty in silence.

    "So?" he cocked his head to the side. "Tell me about this new friend of yours."

    "You already knew about it, didn''t you?" she narrowed her eyes, pouting. "You heard me. Princess Veronika was Violet and Ismael''s friend. She came here to support me and have my back, knowing this game you came up with can be dangerous in the long run."

    Abel frowned and pulled Aries''s waist. "Is that why you are ignoring me?"

    "Abel, I am currently focusing on Marse''s lessons. Not to mention, Violet and I are running a business. I''m already grateful that Violet was doing a great job in managing the store. The least I want right now is to deal with a jealous woman," she reasoned sincerely. "You might think I''m beingcent, but I trust you."

    "Even if you don''t n onpeting, knowing my heart that only yearned for you, you shouldn''t purposely hide from me," he argued with a slight frown. "Just stay close. That''s all I ask."

    "Am I not close enough?" her brows furrowed, locking her arms around his neck.

    "Still too far."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, adjusting her position. She pushed his shoulder until his backnded on the backrest, straddling him. His expression remained the same, but his eyes fastened with anticipation.

    Much to his dismay, Aries copsed her body against his firm muscles.

    "I missed you, Abel," she confessed, resting her head over his shoulder until the tip of her nose was touching theteral side of his neck. "Even though I was preupied with my lessons with Marse and the shop, you never left my mind."

    "Not even once?"

    "Not even a second."

    Abel snaked his arms around her body, lowering his head to nt a kiss on top of her head. He sniffed mildly, only for the floral scent of her hair to waft into his nostrils. He closed his eyes, feeling her body rx on him as her weight pressed against him.

    "It was upsetting." he breathed out while casually stroking her back, twirling his fingers around the drawstrings of her bodice. "Conan''s methods are way too ridiculous."

    Aries furrowed her brows, pushing herself away from him. "It was his idea alone?"

    "Mhm. He needs a wife." He nodded, causing the lines on her forehead to deepen. "And I need a reason to invite you here and make you my wife. So, I won''t need to hide my affection for my wife and you won''t kick me out of bed anymore. I hate it."

    "Waitбн you mean Sir Conan will бк"<sub> </sub>

    "I simply agreed since he had been nagging me for the same reason he had been single since the beginning." He shrugged nonchntly. "Inviting females from across the continent isn''t a bad notion for him to meetdies. After all, he wasn''t traveling outside the capital."

    "Ohбн" Aries blinked, staring at him almost innocently. "But they fancy you."

    "And?"

    "Therefore, it''s a little impossible for them to even consider the emperor''s aide in a romantic lightбн" Aries trailed off as she looked down, feeling his palm on her thigh. When she raised her eyes up at him again, Abel smirked, tilting his head to the side.

    "That''s not my problem, darling," came out a rasped and seductive voice, slipping his fingertips inside her stockings. "Whether other people fancy me or someone else, why would I waste a single brain cell about it? The only opinion that matters to me is yours."

    "Aren''t you jealous?" he asked after a moment of silence, staring into her clear eyes. "That we have a lot of chaperons in our meals and dates."

    "Why would I?" she smiled, bending over. Her hair fell to her side, making him tuck it behind her ear. "I trust you, Abel. Even though it feels like I am part of the harem, your presence is enough."

    The side of his lips curled up, lifting his head to wee her lips. His eyes slowly closed, but notpletely. He kept it partially opened, observing how her eyes shut closed ever so slowly. Abel smirked against her lips, his hand cupping her cheek while the other was on her back.

    Their lips moved in sync, tongues dancing along with the rhythm of their hearts. As their kiss deepened, Abel carefully pulled the drawstrings off her bodice. He didn''t need to look to undress her as he knew how with his eyes closed.

    "Mhm," came out a moan into his mouth as her straps fell off her shoulders. Aries reluctantly parted her lips from him, resting her forehead against his. She breathed heavily, catching up to her breathing.

    "What?" he asked in his coarse voice, inhaling her deep breaths, running his hands up her spine.

    "Don''t leave a mark." Aries drew her head back, revealing her flustered face.

    Abel cocked his head to the side. "Are you afraid someone will notice a hickey?"

    "No. Not that." She blinked, almost innocently. "But the hole you''ll leave here."

    Aries tapped theteral side of her neck with her index. "Marse told me you can drink here without leaving a mark. She said a bite mark heals faster, but if you grazed me, it''ll take some time. It sounds a littleplicated, but if we are carefulбн I don''t see any problem."

    "In other words, you want me to sink my fangs into your veins?" he summarized, a little stunned when she nodded profusely. He pointed to his canine. "These fangs?"

    A sharp breath escaped her nostrils before brushing her hair to the other shoulder. Aries stretched her neck, eyes fixed on him.

    "Those fangs into my neck," she stressed seductively, yet the sincerity in her eyes was what left his mouth open. "Don''t keep me waiting."

 Chapter 573 [Bonus Chapter] There Was A Reason It Was Called Bloodlust

    <strong>[ WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. ]</strong>

    "Those fangs into my neck. Don''t keep me waiting?"

    Abel''s mouth fell open, staring at Aries. The luster in her eyes shone, illuminating her weing nature. The tip of her hand was resting on her bare shoulder de, the dress strap dangling off her shoulder. Her dress was only covering her breast, showing a bit of her upper bosom and then her alluring cors.

    Her hair was brushed over her other shoulder, and she was offering her neck to him. Not only did his blood boil with desire, the sight of her amplified the building tension in his groin. Her looks had a perfect mix of modest and sexual allure.

    Just when he thought she couldn''t even get sexier than she already was.

    Before Abel could even think, he stretched his arms forward. Pulling her body closed, he tilted his head to the side. Without a word, Abel sank his fangs into her veins, clutching the skin of her back.

    Aries squeezed his shoulder on instinct, listening to the loud gulp caressing her ears. Her face had this light shade of red, biting her lower lip. She felt small in his embrace, feeling his fingertips pressed across her back. Good thing his nails were trimmed, so it felt like he was simply massaging her instead of scratching her.

    Aries gulped, holding her breath, letting him take a part of her. Marse mentioned the importance of blood in passing. Her sister-inw told her that vampires needed proper nutrition. Drinking animals'' blood could sustain a vampire, but drinking human blood would maintain their strength.

    They were the same as humans. A vampire also needed proper nutrition. It just so happened that human blood was theplete package meal.

    ''You will not get out of here, Missus Grimsbanne.''

    Aries stiffened when she heard Abel''s voice in her head. It had been a while since she was able to hear his voice in her head.

    Abel slowly peeled his fangs away from her, avoiding grazing her skin with his fangs. He licked his lips and then licked the two tiny holes on her neck. When he drew his head back, his eyes glinted dangerously.

    "Are you angry?" she asked, wiping the slight blood on the corner of his lips with her thumb. Out of curiosity, she licked the blood on her thumb while staring at him.

    "I''m not the one who is angry." Abel tilted his head down slightly. "That one down there is."

    He reached for her wrist, taking the thumb she licked to his mouth. Abel bit his lips until he bled, using her thumb to wipe it. His eyelids drooped, guiding her thumb back to her lips.

    Aries gulped before she slowly parted her mouth to suck her thumb, which had his blood. As her tongue circled around her thumb, Aries kept her eyes on him. Blood dripped from the side of his mouth, propelling her to cup his face and lean forward to im his lips.

    His blood tasted iron, just like the taste of her blood. However, seeing that his eyes darkened when she licked his blood, there was a force within her that pushed her to initiate a kiss.<sub> </sub>

    Abel hissed against her lips, securing his grip around her waist. In one swift movement, Abel flung his arms across the coffee table andid her down there. Her eyes popped open in surprise, watching him hover over her with his knee in between her legs.

    "Stay stillбн" came out a dangerously seductive voice, unbuttoning his shirt. "... or I might hurt you more than necessary."

    Her breath hitched, clutching his chest as he bent over to im her lips once more. The taste of iron filled her cavity, but the vibration of his chest indicated his excitement for what was there toe.

    Abel had always been excited in their passionate moments. However, his excitement this time around sends a chill down her spine. Her instinct told her he would hurt her; not just in the usual way, but he would hurt her if she ever interrupted him.

    "Mhmбн" a protesting moan slipped past her lips, only to get bitten by him. Her grip on his shoulder tightened as she felt her lips bleed.

    ''Abelбн'' she called in her head, hoping she would get through to him. Fortunately, it seemed her voice was able to reach him as his aggressive kisses grew gentler. ''Slowlyбн please.''

    ''How?'' he replied telepathically, holding her thigh up.

    "I just want you right now," he breathed out, resting his forehead on her forehead.

    Aries chuckled, cupping his face. She lifted her head, nting a soft kiss on his lips.

    "I''m not stopping you. I''m simply asking you; don''t break my bones," she quipped, nting another soft kiss on his lips while spreading her legs. "After all, the feeling is mutual."

    Abel swiftly unzipped his trousers with one hand whilst kissing her lips. Unlike usual, he didn''t go through so much ceremony as he lowered his hip. Much to his surprise, when he glided his girth on her folds, she was already soaking wet. His entrance felt a little smoother.

    Her mouth fell open as her back arched, feeling how he slowly sank deep into her until his tip reached the end of her wall. Meanwhile, a hiss came out through his gritted teeth as her soft and tight walls wrapped around his massive girth. Her insides were soft, hot, and wet.

    His erection throbbed inside, biting her shoulder until he left his teeth marks. Surely, he would never let her go out of this ce the whole night, nor did he n to pull out.

    "Ahhбн" she moaned the second his hips moved, pulling back ever so slowly, only to shove it forward swiftly. Abel kept repeating the pattern, pulling back slowly only to thrust his hips violently until the tip of his erection reach her end wall.

    Her moans and his grunts resonated across her chambers, and to muffle the noise, Abel pressed his mouth against her lips. He grabbed her wrist over her head, ignoring the creak of the table as it scraped the floor with his every thrust.

 Chapter 574 [Bonus Chapter]Silent Disagreement

    "Abel."

    "Mhm?"

    "Do you love me?"

    "Very much."

    Aries smiled as she gazed down, feeling his hands scrub her back as they were dipped in the tub.

    "Do you love me?" Abel asked after a minute of silence, spreading the bubbles on the scar of her back.

    "I do," she whispered, eyes full of affection. "Very much."

    His eyes softened, tracing a raised scar on her back with his thumb. After their passionate moment, both of them took a bath as a break for the next round of passion.

    "One of the empress''s requirements is to not have the slightest scarбн" he spoke under his breath, feeling all the scars that were on her back. "... you''ll fail in that category, darling."

    Aries chortled weakly. "I am bound to fail, you know that."

    "No." Abel bent over to nt a kiss on a scar on her back. "You are my empress."

    "Abelбн" she whispered, turning around ever so slowly to face him. Her eyes softened the second he held his gaze. "We are following the empire''s tradition, are we not?"

    "We are."

    "And it''s in thew that the empress was supposed to be blemished free. I amбн my body, my heart, my soulбн aren''t pure."

    "I know." He rocked his head, caressing her shoulder with his knuckles. "But what are these empires'' traditions and religion?"

    Abel snapped his eyes up, batting his eyes slowly. "I am the empire''sw, tradition, and religion."

    "Are we wasting everyone''s time then?" she asked out of in curiosity, watching him arch a brow and tilt his head to the side.

    "Do you want me to take in a different empress?" he returned the question. His tone was calm, but a mix of confusion and dissatisfaction swirled in his pair of deep rubies. "Are you suggesting that I make another woman my wife and keep you as my mistress? Did that sound more exciting than ying house?"

    "Am I not your mistress?" she queried with genuine wonder in her voice. "With youбн I am Aries. The candidate for the emperor was Danie Circe Vandran, not Aries."

    "And the emperor is Eustass Silvestri Abel Bloodworth, not Abel Grimsbanne." He shrugged.

    "Trueбн" Aries nodded in agreement. "So, the answer to my question is yes?"

    "No."

    Her brows knitted. "No?"

    "Yes, no."

    "Can you please exin?"

    "Unless you rify the reason for these questions, then I would." His smile didn''t reach his eyes, almost taking her aback.

    Aries stared at him in silence, blinking. She had seen Abel upset, but not this type of upset where there was no murderous intent. Strange, she thought, that the normal type of upset from him felt alien.

    "I was curious," she answered honestly, keeping her eye contact with him. "Although you said Sir Conan might fancy any of the candidates, that is still most unlikely to happen. The candidates weredies with great virtues and noble upbringing. Some were graceful and smart, others were reserved and gentle. However, they weredies who were amazing in this man''s world. Bing the empressбн might be one of their dreams. It would break their hearts if they knew thispetition had been decided even before it was brought up to the royal court."

    "Are you saying I should value their dreams and ambitions, instead of focusing on my own?"<sub> </sub>

    Aries shook her head. "Do not misunderstand. I do not want to share my husband with anyone. However, Iбн like some of them and it''s a pity to toy with them, especially if they were working hard and doing their best." She lowered her eyes and smiled subtly.

    "If doing your best is enough, I wouldn''t be in this tub with you, wondering if I can tie you upter. Instead, those hard workers would''ve seeded in giving me retribution." Aries looked up at Abel at his remarks, only to see his nonchnt countenance. "Darling, this world is unfair and I am neither noble nor virtuous to put myself out there and be everyone''s hero."

    Aries frowned, cing her hands on top of her knees. She then lowered her head until her chin was resting on her knuckles, eyes still fixed on this sinful beauty.

    "I do what I do. If wasting everyone''s time and putting all of them in danger can give me a reason to make you stay in my pce, then I do not mind wasting their entire lives." Abel moved closer, keeping her in between his legs. "Will you hate me for that?"

    Aries pressed her lips and sighed. "Will you promise not to hurt them?"

    "No." His answer was quick as if he didn''t need a second to think about it, causing her frown to deepen. "I won''t hurt any of themбн unless they hurt you."

    "I can protect myself."

    "I know."

    A deep breath slipped past Aries''s lips once again. "When''s our wedding?"

    "Iбн don''t know? I can arrange the ceremony tomorrow if you want." He smiled, but it didn''t reach his eyes. "In that case, we won''t be wasting everyone''s time. What do you think about that?"

    "I am so conflicted." Aries let out another long-suffering sigh, rxing her shoulders. She heard him chuckle before he snaked his arms around her body.

    "There''s another reason," he muttered, squeezing his face on her hands that were resting on her knees.

    "Another reason?"

    "Mhm."

    "What is it?"

    Abel smacked his lips, staring at her adorable and curious eyes. "Distraction."

    "Distraction? For what?"

    "For you."

    "Pardon?"

    "The night council will most likely invite you to our gathering on the next full moon," he exinedzily. "I suspect that there were more moles in the night council who are conniving with the vampires on the maind. My enemies."

    Her brows furrowed, staring at him worriedly. "So you invited thesediesбн to hide me? Won''t they know who I was?"

    "They already knew who you were and what you are to me."

    "So why?"

    The side of his lips curled up into a smirk as a glint flickered across his eyes. Seeing his wicked expression, Aries could not help but straighten her back to look at him properly.

    "All the candidates were capable and special in their own little way," said Abel in a knowing tone. "Just think of it this way. If we are in a crowded ce, it''ll be hard to find each other if we get separated. However, if it''s just the two of us, we don''t need to hold hands since we''d instantly find each other."

    "To put it simply, having moredies within the imperial pce is enough to buy me some time to get to you if you needed me." Abel poked the tip of her nose mildly. "I nned to reward them and their country if they fulfilled their purpose. Just hope they won''t be greedy and cause you harm, for I don''t tolerate that sort of impudence."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, having this mixed emotions in her heart. However, she still forced a smile to hide her disagreement.

    "We''ll catch a cold if we stay here for long," she remarked, changing the subject with a smile. "Stop ying. Turn around so I can scrub your back."

 Chapter 575 Communication Isnt Always The Key, Comprehension Was.

    "You don''t agree with me?"

    Aries stopped when Abel spoke behind her. Wrapped in a robe after bathing with him, Aries closed the robe to hide her chest.

    "You pretended you didn''t notice until now," she replied, looking back at him calmly. "Why point it out now?"

    "I wasn''t pretending. I was waiting for your argument." Abel advanced in her direction, having a towel wrapped around his waist. Unlike her, who had already dried up her body with his help, his hair was still dripping little drops of water on his body and back.

    "I just changed clothes," Ariesined weakly as he pulled her waist against his body. "Let me help you dry your hair."

    Aries pushed him mildly, but he didn''t budge. Her brows rose, blinking almost innocently at him.

    "I''m not angry, Abel. If I was, I wouldn''t be here with you," she exined lest he misunderstood her, feeling his firm chest with her palms. "I''m onlyбн I mean, how can I me you? You''re already doing your best to conform to what people бк I, included, think is right and moral."

    Her smile lines slightly faded as conflict flickered across her emerald eyes. "I should me myself that I worry you and everyone, forcing you to go beyond and above to protect me."

    "I will work hard, Abel," she promised, forcing a smile to reassure him. "I will be strong enough and prove I can protect myself against your types of enemies. That I don''t need others to shield me."

    "It''s not that I don''t trust you." His eyelids drooped, staring at her eyes that were akin to emeralds on top of the mountain thrust into the sky that never revealed its depth. "It was the opposite."

    Aries pressed her lips with its corners curled up into a smile. She wrapped her arms around his neck while his arms were stilling her waist. Her eyes swirled with greatplexity.

    "Is it because... perhaps you trust me so much you''re worried it''ll be neglect?" she tilted her head to the side, staring into his dark, crimson eyes. "Using other peopleбн I''m not saying I hadn''t done that in the past. I''m not a saint and I don''t know what types of people might be targeting me at this moment. But I''m certain they were people who can never touch you but can easily snap my neck like a twig."

    "You won''t be able to revive me if I died, right? Because I''m a witch?" she smiled subtly, observing his unchanging expression. "That''s why you''re worriedбн I''ll die."

    "Terrified," he corrected under his breath, caressing her jaw with the back of his fingers. "I''m not worried, I''m terrified. The sheer thought of it is enough for me to stay up for days, nning on how to prevent that from happening."

    Abel brushed her shoulder, running the back of his fingers down to her arm and then hand. He clipped the tip of her hand, guiding it to the side as if they were in for a dance. Slowly, he took a step and swayed her, dancing in the silence of the night.

    He released her waist, raising their hands to turn her around slowly. When she faced him again, he caught her waist and pulled her against his firm chest. Abel rested his chin on her shoulder, both of them swaying in the soundless music in their ears.

    "How I wish you are simply wicked," he confessed, guiding her hand to his nape. "It''ll be easier to act so shamelessly."

    Aries smiled, resting the side of her head on his chest. "I am wicked, but I want to do things right, Abel. I won''t stop you from protecting me if that will make you feel so reassured, but let''s stop using people who have nothing to do with us as pawns."

    "I will reward them... not with death, unfortunately."

    "Mhmбн"

    "Still upset?"

    "I told you, I wasn''t." Aries carefully drew her head back and looked up at him in the eye. "I justбн haven''t figured out what I''d feel. Especially when I had taken a liking to the otherdies."

    Her eyes gleamed as she recalled her discussion with Veronika this afternoon. "Kindnessбн isn''t so bad, you see?" She snapped her eyes ever so tenderly as if she had some enlightenment.<sub> </sub>

    "It might''ve been unintentional, but I would like to do things for people, not because of who they are or what they can give me in return," she added with a satisfied smile. "I want to do it because of who I am. It makes me feel good and satisfied."

    The side of her lips stretched until her teeth were showing. "Abel, when will you let me hear you y the piano?" she asked, raising her brows. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation; a great way to change the subject.

    "Let''s not get sad anymore or argue, hmm? We''re together now, so we should focus on the good things and the promises we made which we hadn''t done yet," Aries added. "We should sneak outбн using that secret passage."

    Abel remained silent, observing her beautiful smile. After a moment, a shallow breath slipped past his lips. He smiled subtly, arching a brow as he nced at the shelf.

    "I''ll change first," he said when he set his eyes back to her. "Want to give me a hand?"

    "Of course." Aries grinned, nodding in enthusiasm.

    With that being said, Aries held his hand and guided him to the stool in front of the vanity mirror. Getting a towel prepared by Gertrude to dry his hair, Aries noticed it had always been Abel who would help her change dress and dry her hair. He would asionallyb her hair as well. But this was her first time doing it.

    "This isбн" Aries trailed off from sharing her realization, checking the small cloth she was using to dry his hair. Her brows furrowed, seeing a tint of green on the cloth. However, that wasn''t what surprised her, since Abel had dyed his hair green.

    "Abel? Is there something wrong?" she asked, looking back at him through the mirror. "Your dye ising off, but your hairбн it was white-ish silver?"

    Abel arched his brow, blinking. "No, there''s nothing wrong."

    "Are you sure?" she frowned. "Shouldn''t it be ck?"

    "Why would it be?"

    "What do you mean?"

    The two of them looked at each other in the mirror, blinking, both confused. Abel tilted his head to the side.

    "ck isn''t my original hair color," he dered, rendering her speechless.

    "It wasn''t?"

    "Who said it was?"

    "..."

    And it suddenly hit Aries. Sunny had silver hair while Marse had tinum gold strands. Sunny said her mother had hazel hair color, and thus, the hazel streak. So for Abel to have jet-ck hairбн was odd since two of his family had lighter hair colors, which Aries never realized, as she had always assumed that was his original hair color.

    "Darling," she whispered in disbelief. "I think I will learn a lot about you throughout this selection."

    Abelughed. "I bet you will discover tons."

 Chapter 576 Its Not Flattery When Its A Fact

    Aries and Abel idled in her chambers, cuddling, talking about anything random, and spending it like how lovers would enjoy the night with each other''spany. But tonight, neither of them was willing to stay in the bed and rest. Instead, they enjoyed a ss of wine as they sat on the divan.

    Aries had her feet up, resting her side against the backrest. Holding a half-empty wine on top of the cushion on herp, the side of her eyes wrinkled along with the curl of her lips.

    "And?" she asked in great interest, staring at the beautiful man before her.

    In front of her was Abel, sitting at arm''s length. His arm was spread over the backrest while his hand would casually massage her head. He held the winess on the other with his leg up on the divan, the other on the floor.

    The side of his lips curled up, raising the winess to his lips. "He died right in front of me."

    "Should I say sorry to hear that?" she wondered with genuine wonder in her voice. Right now, Abel was telling her a story about when he had a hamster as his pet years back. Apparently, that adorable creature suddenly disappeared because Abel was confident he tamed it enough. Everyone in the imperial pce searched every nook and cranny to find his hamster, but to no avail.

    Weekster, the hamster suddenly turned up in the emperor''s office when Conan lifted a bunch of documents. All along, the poor hamster was just inside his chancery, hiding behind the unfinished documents.

    "Until now, I haven''t decided which emotion to feel. After all, I searched for it high and low and when we found it, he looked me in the eye and died right then and there." Abel let out a long sigh, shaking his head mildly. "His death gave me a mixed feeling of anger and confusion."

    Aries chuckled. "I''m sorry."

    "Forgiven. Just this once."

    She covered her lips with the back of her hand, trying to suppress the waves ofughter that were tempting to break free from her mouth. She found it silly.

    "You execute people without batting an eyeбн" Aries pointed out when she recovered. Her cheeks were painted red from all theughing and the winebined. "... yet you felt conflicted over a hamster''s death? No offense."

    "People who usually say, ''no offense,'' tend to say something offensive right after," he mused in a matter-of-factly tone. "And it''s not just any hamster, darling. It''s my hamster. What does a cruel woman like you know? Have you ever had a pet?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, humming a long tune. "I had always wanted one," she confessed, grinning until her teeth were showing.

    "But s, I can''t even take care of myself. How can I possibly take care of another life?" she added, leaning her head against the backrest. "Back in Rikhill, they always tell me I have heavy hands."

    "Heavy hands?" Abel leaned back, looking back at her over the rim of the winess as he took another sip.

    "Mhm." She nodded, lowering her eyes to the winess in her hand. "There was a time I tried nting flowers. All of them withered or got drowned even before they could bloom. I did it a couple of times, but the result is the same. That''s why I was told I shouldn''t have any pets, else I might kill it too."

    Abel licked his lips as he lowered his winess. "Did that make you sad?"<sub> </sub>

    "No." Aries chuckled as she raised her head at him, revealing the sparkle in her emerald eyes. "Deep in my heart, I knew they were correct. But that is not because I have heavy hands, but because my hands were always full."

    "The flowers wither because I won''t water them for days or they get drowned because I was always distracted whenever I do," she continued in a light tone. "I had no time for amitment back then nor did I have the spare energy for it. "

    His eyelids drooped as he observed her fading smile. Abel raised his hand and cupped her face, brushing her cheek with his thumb affectionately.

    "But you liked it." His voice was low yet gentle. "Gardening."

    "I do." Aries moved her face closer to his palm. "The greenhouse in the House Vandran fulfilled that part of me."

    She fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly as she held his gaze. "Weбн I had so many things to do, but the day is shorter and my body can barely keep up. It''s either my ambition to lead my people or my hobby. I sacrificed thetterбн if onlyбн"

    ? Aries trailed off as she bit her tongue to stop herself from dwelling on the regrets of the past. She promised to move forward since Joaquin''s downfall. Hence, there was no point in wallowing in the things that had already happened and resolved.

    "Sacrifices were made. It''s not always good things, since life always had its own n. I had few regrets, though. But it''s never toote for me to do what I had always wanted to do." Aries smacked her lips and smiled at him. "What about you, my love? What do you like to do that you had to put off because of duties?"

    Abel pressed his lips into a thin line as he pondered about it. But instead of answering, he withdrew his hand from her face and bent over. He ced the winess back on the coffee table before straightening his back.

    Her brows rose when he offered his hand to her.

    "You said you want to hear me y," he said, smiling coquettishly at her. "Allow me to serenade you."

    Aries''s eyes softened, reaching for his hand and sped it gently. She then moved the cushion from herp to the side until she was standing with his assistance.

    "I don''t call it a sacrifice," Abel dawdled, taking the winess in her hand, only to ce it back on the table. When he faced her again, his lips stretch from ear to ear. "But I had always thought of serenading the most sublime creature my eyes hadid upon but had to put it aside because of... people."

    "You always have a way with your words." She chuckled, watching him shrug nonchntly. "You tter me too much."

    "It''s not ttery when it''s a fact." He arched a brow and tipped his head in a direction. "Shall we?"

    "Please, lead the way." Aries chuckled, following his lead towards the secret passage through the shelf while holding his hand.

 Chapter 577 The Voice Of Life

    The beautiful mellow sound resonated across the empty hall, which only sheltered a piano in the middle. With the crescent moon shining like a silver w filtering through the window and onto the piano, Abel, who was running his hands across the keys, looked mesmerizing.

    Aries was leaning against the side, watching him, listening to the mellow music which had a perfect mix of sweet, dark, and rich that resonated in her heart. Her lips curled up, cupping her jaw.

    The music was beautiful, and so was Abel.

    Oh, how his music sounded so fluent, giving voice to his soul, articting his message that predates words. She could understand him through the range of harmonics; the ttery of each key and how his eyes would flutter ever so tenderly at her.

    If Aries had seen him y the piano at first, she would definitely fall in love with him at first sight. She wouldn''t even assume he was a tyrant because right now, all she could see was a man who was enjoying the music he was creating. Nothing grand, but definitely beautiful in a rich and resonating way.

    Aries pushed herself away from the piano, caressing it with her fingertips as she walked closer to him. As she stood to his side, Abel looked up and smirked. Yet, his fingers continued to y with the keys.

    "It''s beautiful, love," shemented, standing behind him to massage his shoulder. "I think I had fallen in love once more. My heart feels like it will burst."

    Abel chuckled, pressing the keys to make the sound turn soft. "I have to make you fall for meбн until you wouldn''t mind rotting next to me."

    "I never thought I will ever mind if you rot next to me." She chortled, wrapping her arms around his neck, still standing behind him. "If ric met you, she will love you."

    "I didn''t know you like threesome, darling."

    "I hope you are joking." A briefugh escaped her lips. "She had always dreamed of bing a known pianist. Quite strange, since she was a princess."

    His fingers slowed down until they stopped, allowing thest note to echo. He held her hand, guiding her to sit beside him. Abel raised his brows as he looked at her beautiful face, tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear.

    "In case your sister went straight down in hell and not in heaven, as you assumed, we''ll have a st on my first day there." He smiled with a tinge of arrogance and mischief. "It was a shame I didn''t meet her, but I''m certain she is just as wonderful as her big sister."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she smiled subtly. "She is truly wonderful and talented." She then adjusted her position, so she was facing the piano.

    "There''s just something in the musical instrumentsбн the piano, especially, that could make her eyes sparkle like the morning teardrops." She caressed the keys with the tip of her finger, pressing one mildly. "Any sound she would hear, she was able to connect it to music. And at a time like this, even when I tell myself not to dwell in the past, I couldn''t help it."

    "Since ric, my dearest little sister corrtes everything to music, it makes me wonder how the sound of war echo in her heart." Her eyelids drooped to hide the bitterness that shone in them. "It must have been dreadful."

    At a time like this, when she felt sentimental, Aries couldn''t stop herself or thest images of her sister and everyone as they stood on the guillotine. No amount of time, sess, or motivation would erase that memory from her. It was something Aries would forever carry and y in her head every once in a while.<sub> </sub>

    No one could me her. They were her family, and despite Joaquin''s downfall, it wasn''t enough to erase that painful memory. Which proved that revenge could only cover the anger, not the longing.

    Abel stared at her side profile as she pressed a key. Sensing her declining mood, he let out a shallow breath.

    "Do you y?" he asked, watching her look back at him with raised brows.

    "A little."

    "Thisбн" Abel pressed a few keys, showing her the proper order. "Can you do it?"

    "I can try." Aries shrugged, gazing down at the keys. Just like how she remembered it, Aries yed the keys, which produced the same sound as he did.

    "Now try this."

    Abel repeated the sequence of the first keys he yed and then added a new one. She followed his instructions. However, the more keys he yed, the more she would make a mistake every once in a while. Even so, he was extra patient and focused, not even trying to seduce her, even though there were tons of chances.

    Aries smiled as she yed the first part after an hour or two of learning. Good thing she already had a good baseline because ric had taught her. Hence, ying the piece Abel had been ying earlier felt rather easy. It also uplifted her mood, distracting her longing for her family.

    "I never heard this piece before," she giggled in excitement after finishing the first part, gazing at him. "Is this an original piece?"

    "It is." Abel cast her a quick look before cing his fingers on the keyboard. "But I didn''tpose it."

    "Mhm?" Aries raised her brows as her eyes fell on his fingers as he flexed them, waiting for him to teach her the next part. However, what he said next stunned her.

    "Remember that music piece on that ridge in Rikhill? The one on your sister''s grave?" Abel yed some soft keys, seeing her slowly look back at him. "This is what those notes will sound like."

    Her breath hitched, staring at his side profile wide-eyed while he started ying the piece he had been ying. Aries bit her lower lip as her eyes softened, smiling subtly at him. Tears shone in her eyes, but the amount wasn''t enough to make her cry. If anything, she was moved by his unexpected gesture once again.

    "I fell in love with the same man the third time tonight." Aries slowly peeled her eyes away from him, raising her hand to y the piano with him. "I can imagine them smiling down on us as these mellow notes resonate to where they were. Hopefully."

    Abel smiled subtly, looking back at her. The two of them chuckled as they yed the piano, ying ric''s original piece titled "the voice of life."

 Chapter 578 Its Your Loss

    As the beautiful melody echoed across the inner pce, the breeze seemed to have also warmed up. Marse drew a deep breath while sitting on the railings of the balcony, tucking her hair as the soft breeze blew past her.

    "What are you doing here?" Dexter''s voice came from behind her after the mild creak. A frown dominated his face, apparently displeased at the presence of this intruder.

    ? The moment Dexter resigned to bed, he instantly knew there was another person in his room. He wasn''t wrong because the second he opened the balcony, Marse was there in her nightdress as if this was her room.

    "The amount of disy of affection in the pce is too much for a vulnerable maiden such as myself." Marse looked back at him and smirked. "That is why I fled to save myself from such histrionic sentiments that are knocking into my fragile heart."

    "So, you intruded into my room?"

    "Is there something wrong with that?"

    "It is wrong in many ways," he replied through his gritted teeth.

    "Oh,e on, Marquess. It''s not like I n to sleep with you. Unless you want me to," Marse mused, peeling her eyes away from him. "I simply found this room up to my taste."

    "Therefore, you''re iming ownership?"

    She smirked, ncing back at him. "Why don''t you humor me for a little while? I can be an excellentpany. Gustav can vouch for me."

    "Did Gustav let you in all on his own?" he asked in disbelief, marching towards the railings. "I can''t believe him."

    "He''s doing a good deed by helping a damsel in distress." She arched a brow, offering the bottle of wine she had been enjoying. "I do not have a spare ss, but I had enough wine."

    Dexter darted his eyes from her eyes to the bottle before epting it. With his arms against the railing, a deep exhale slipped past his lips before chugging down a mouthful of the beverage.

    As he hissed, Marse was staring at him silently. Noticing her prolonged gaze, he arched a brow.

    "What?" he asked, only to see her shrug.

    "Nothing." Marse grinned, looking away from him toward the towering imperial pce. "Can you hear them, Marquess?"

    Dexter furrowed his brows, his eyes following her gaze. He narrowed them and subconsciously raised his sense of hearing. At that moment, he heard the faint sound of music. It was soothing, a tone different from what Abel would usually y whenever he had the time.

    "I guess she''s happy," he whispered, smiling subtly at the thought of how warm the music was that affected the night. He gazed up at the crescent moon shining up above. "No wonder tonight felt a little less cold."

    Marse smacked her lips. "Now that you are in the good mood, can I have your room?"

    "No." His smile instantly died, looking back at her dead in the eye. "Did you think you can trick me by telling me my sister is happy?"<sub> </sub>

    "She''s not your real sister."

    "Does blood matter?" he arched a brow. "Dani and I might not share the same blood, but we care for each other more than a real sibling. Take your rtionship with your brother, for instanceбн ah, right. You''re not the real Marse."

    "I am not and I will never be."

    "But that shell, that face, and body, are hers. So, technically, you''re still blood-rted to him." Dexter shrugged nonchntly. "My point here is, your argument isn''t valid. Therefore, get out of here. I won''t give you my room."

    Marse frowned, studying his handsome face. "Mhmбн you don''t look bad."

    "Don''t even think seducing me will work."

    "Really?" Marse bent over until her face was a palm length away from his face. "I haven''t been paying attention to people''s faces. I didn''t know you were quite charming."

    Dexter narrowed his eyes, etching her facial structure in his head. To be honest, Marse looked like the face of seduction. He resembled Abel upon closer look, or rather, her sharp eyes looked like the emperors''.

    "Sayбн" she traced his sharp jaw with her fingertips, batting her eyes coquettishly. "How about we share the bedroom, Marquess? I do not mind spending the night with you and have some fun. After all, it was quite unfair that people are having fun while youбн and I are supposed to spend this night all alone."

    "Make senseбн" Dexter nodded slightly before his eyelids drooped, watching her lean her face closer. However, as their faces were inches away, the corner of their lips curled up viciously. Marse was a secondte as Dexter pushed her off the balcony without a second hesitation.

    Her eyes went huge while she was free falling, seeing Dexter look over the balcony with a smirk.

    ''That jerkбн!''

    "I would rather sleep on my bed all alone than spend it with someone who reeks of bloodlust." He chuckled, watching her fall without a trace of remorse. It didn''t surprise him that Marsended on the ground safely soon after. "The residence had a lot of rooms to offer. Gustav will give you a proper one. However, don''t sneak inside my room again or I will draw my sword."

    "It''s your loss, dearest," Marse yelled in irritation and added louder, "if I were you, don''t even think of sleeping. You will not wake upбн or you might, but the first sight you will behold is my beauty."

    Dexter chuckled at her confidence. Surely, she was Abel''s sister. They both had the habit of sneaking into ces and iming things just because they caught their eyes.

    ''I never slept since you stepped foot in this ce,'' he thought, pushing himself away from the railings. As he did, his brows rose as his eyes fell on the bottle of wine that he was still holding.

    "This is His Majesty''s favorite," he snickered, chugging the wine as he walked back inside his chambers. ''He likes stealing my things. I guess it''s not bad to drink this wine, which he had been preserving for centuries.''

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> Marse snapped her tongue as she stared at the balcony. Dexter already left. How rude.

    "Ughбн" She ran her hands through her tousled hair, grinding her teeth. "Good thing he pushed me off, though. Marse nearly came out."

 Chapter 579 The Crown Prince Of The Haimirich Empire

    Two weeks had passed since the selection had started. The candidates were given royal etiquette sses and constantly took part in many things such as tea parties, banquets for the nobles and high society, and charity events.

    Since they were candidates to be the empress, there were also certain topics they had to deal with, such as proposing ideas on how to resolve some state of affairs. In other words, it had been a hectic two weeks for everyone.

    They couldn''t even rest since the rivalries had also ensued; too busy taking sides or leaving notable impressions. Some tantly showed support for the strongest candidates, while others kept neutral to gravitate on which side to support. So far, Aries wasn''t a threat. Therefore, she had a peaceful two weeks.

    On top of the schedule, Aries must conform as a candidate, she also had to attend Marse''s secret lectures. That was why Aries was grateful that Abel deliberatelyplimented some dies to divert their attention from her.

    But after two weeks of fiercepetition, the candidates had finally gotten a day of rest. The only schedule they had for today was a luncheon with the crown prince. <strong>Yes.</strong> The crown prince. The emperor''s bastard child. After that, everyone was free.

    Still, Aries thought this rest day granted to them had little value for the other candidates. The atmosphere in this dining table set in the garden in the inner pce was the proof.

    Aries gulped, discreetly studying everyone. The setting of the luncheon was a small table for the crown prince on the end of the short rectangr tables, catering four candidates for each table. The surrounding was mellow and calming with all the green and variety of flowers around.

    However, it was silent, suffocatingly so.

    ''I wonder what they were all up to now,'' she thought, assuming at least one or twodies would say or do something to gain some point from the crown prince.

    <strong>The crown prince. </strong>

    Aries carefully gazed at the small table to her left, letting out a deep sigh. There, a small child with a round body and face was eating heartily. However, unlike her original silver and hazel hair color, Sunny was wearing a ck wig and wearing a man''s clothes.

    ''She looks so cute even though he dressed up as a boy.'' Another deep exhale slipped past her lips, focusing on her te. Aries hadn''t seen Sunny since the start of the selection. She asked Abel about her, and he only told her Sunny was busy eating and would show up soon.

    Who would have thought? That Sunny would show up as Sonny, the emperor''s bastard.

    ''He''s gone crazy,'' she mentally shook her head, ncing at the rest of thedies. ''I wonderбн if they also find it suspicious?''

    The existence of the crown prince was no secret to everyone in the empire. Abel was someone who didn''t need to hide anything from his subject. Because of that confidence and arrogance, everyone knew that this crown prince who lived in the forbidden pce was around eight years old.

    The problem was, that Sunny was too small to be mistaken for an eight-year-old boy. She was a toddler!

    "Huh?" Sunny suddenly paused in her eating, gazing up. Somedies staring at her flinched, blushing at the level of cuteness each time Sunny''s doe eyes blinked.

    Her eyes glossed over thedies and it lingered on Aries, sitting on the farthest just to stay safe. Thetter was sighing while staring at her te.

    "Hmmбн" Sunny hummed, shifting her eyes to the butler standing on the side. "They''re wasting food."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Highness?" the butler bowed slightly upon hearing herment.

    "Can we have a time limit?" Sunny inquired, peeling her eyes away from the butler to thedies. "Please, eat your meal in a heartbeat. I, the crown prince, think you are too modest. Your health is much more precious than your image."

    "Your highnessбн" Lady Julienne, who was obviously sitting beside Lady Ivory бк one of thedies who had shown exceptional achievement бк called awkwardly.

    "Mhm?" Sunny''s brows rose, blinking innocently at thedy. "What is it, mydy?"

    "We are candidates for the empress and thus, we must conform to the pce rules. Eating modestly and gracefully is one of the qualities the empress must uphold. Apologies for speaking my mind, for I am simply speaking for everyone," Lady Julienne exined politely, ncing at Lady Ivory, who didn''t react.

    Sunny stared at Lady Julienne in silence for a moment. "You haven''t been crowned, and you dare lecture me? The crown prince?"

    "Your highness, it''s not what you бк"

    "Was it because I''m a bastard?" Sunny cut her off, tilting her head to the side. Her question obviously sent a sense of dread down Lady Julienne''s spine.

    Just like how it wasn''t a secret that the emperor had a bastard from his promiscuous lifestyle, everyone also knew His Majesty didn''t favor his son. Why would he? He had him out of wedlock, and the mother of the crown prince died of childbirth.

    This crown prince titleбн was simply an empty title right now. Once the empress was selected and was able to produce an heir, this crown prince would be set aside. And his title? It would be taken away from him.

    The main reason Lady Julienne had the audacity to voice her thoughts aloud. Sadly, she didn''t know the crown prince had a sharp tongue and... couldn''t be underestimated.

    "Your Highness, how dare I think of such unspeakable insolence?" Lady Julienne nervously humbled herself. "I simply want Your Highness to understand we had certain rules to follow. And thus, you do not need to worry --"

    "And what are those?"

    "Yes?" she raised her eyes back at Sunny, confusion swirling in them.

    "Is abiding and supporting the monarch not written in the guidelines for the candidate?" Sunny inquired, giving Lady Julienne undivided attention. Hearing Sunny''s reply, Lady Julienne bit her tongue to stop herself from speaking more.

    Sunny let out a shallow breath as she shook her head. "You''re in the way," shemented, casting a knight on standby a look.

    "Hang her somewhere I won''t see," she ordered, and everyone, including Aries, looked back at Sunny, wide-eyed. "I want her out of my sight... permanently."

    What did she just say?

 Chapter 580 The Crown Prince Of The Haimirich Empire II

    "Hang her somewhere I won''t see. I want her out of my sight... permanently."

    There was a long moment of silence after Sunny''s orders. All they could do was watch the ''crown prince'' pick up her cutleries to resume eating, only for her to pause and raise her little head.

    "Did you not hear me?" she asked, batting her eyes at the royal knights. "Or should I need to do it myself?"

    "Your Highness!" Lady Julienne mmed her hands on the table as she stood up. Her wide eyes shook at Sunny, in disbelief at the obvious disy of power abuse. "Pardon my insolence, however, I believed we have a misunderstanding!"

    "Misunderstandingбн?" Sunny blinked twice, tilting her head to the side. "Did I misunderstand that you had disrespected the emperor right in front of me and in his territory you are standing on now?"

    "Whatбн?" thedy''s breath hitched, feeling her heart race under the icy gaze of the little child.

    "I believe it wasn''t me who misunderstood, mydy, but you. My intentions were pure, but you took that as an opportunity to lecture me," exined Sunny in the same adorable yet eerily cold tone. "Your actions not only offended me but also, indirectly delineate the emperor didn''t raise me well. Shall we bring this to the royal court? If His Majesty heard about this, he will not only hang you but will order you to crush your own head until you remember your ce."

    "Etiquetteбн you said you must conform to the pce rules. I wonder why would you make such an elementary mistake, mydy?" she added almost innocently it was unsettling to listen to. "In this ce, the crown prince is only the second to the emperor in power. How dare you, a lowly daughter of a duke on a brink of bankruptcy, speak when you''re not told to speak?"

    Aries''s mouth fell as she listened to Sunny''s sudden tantrum. Her heart pounded against her chest, even though she wasn''t the one who was currently inflicting the little girl''s anger. She darted her eyes between Sunny and Lady Julienne, speechless.

    "Do not make me repeat myself." A glint flickered across Sunny''s eyes as she nced at the knights. "Drag her out of here. Those are my orders."

    "Your Highness!" Lady Julienne gasped, seeing that the knights bowed with their fists across their chests as they epted the order. Her pupils went wide, setting them at Lady Ivory. Thetter had a nk expression stered on her face, unable to even look at Lady Julienne and Sunny.

    "Lady Ivory! Your Highness! Kya бк let me go! Your Highness, this is unfair! I did nothing wrong!" Lady Julienne screamed as the knights dragged her by her arms. "Your Highness бк please forgive me! I was wrong and stepped out of my bounds! Please!"

    "How loud," Sunny mumbled nonchntly, casting everyone on their respective tables and seats with equal attention. "For you all, this was nothing but a selection to be the most powerful woman on the continent. However, for the Emperor, this was a time he would have to choose his life partner. As for me, this is a matter of who would be my mother."

    "Just because I am a bastard child doesn''t mean I merely carry an empty title. Before any of you get crowned, do not forget I am above you," she continued, almost sounding like Abel at herck of hesitation in her confident remarks. "His Majesty had entrusted me with monitoring the candidates. Therefore, do not harm each other. We wished for thispetition to be bloodless."

    "I hope that is clear to everyone," Sunny added.

    The candidates remained silent, listening to Sunny''s remarks and memorizing them lest this information would be helpful in the future. Dread still dominated their eyes, but because of years of practice, they were able to force a smile.<sub> </sub>

    <o>,m "Yes, Your Royal Highness," they answered in unison, resuming their meal as if nothing happened.</o>

    Meanwhile, as everyone started eating, Aries caught Lady Ivory slowly raising her eyes at Sunny. Thetter was already staring back at the candidate; her eyes were cold as if they bore a warning Sunny didn''t have to voice it out for Lady Ivory to understand.

    ''What did she do?'' Aries wondered, furrowing her brows. She cast Veronika, who was sitting beside her, a look. The Princess of Chivisea shrugged, unable to answer the inquiry that was clearly written in Aries''s eyes. Suzanne and Sybil didn''t seem to know as well as they continued eating with Suzanne carrying a somber mood while Sybil was obviously frightened.

    Just moments ago, Lady Julienne was actively gloating like usual, praising Lady Ivory to the heavens. But now, a servant was quietly taking out the vacant chair, as if Sunny didn''t order something so cruel.

    ''What have I been missing?'' Aries sighed mentally as she didn''t pay attention that much to everyone. She might have fulfilled all the tasks given to them in these past two weeks. Aries didn''t pay attention to the little things since she had been distracted by the realization of her every lesson with Marse.

    If only Aries paid more attentionбн she would realize some of thesedies had considered her a threat. And thus, like any rational being, Aries would be the target of some of thesedies. However, that wasn''t the real reason Sunny resorted to such an extreme way.

    As the sound of silence enveloped the garden while everyone was eating, Sunny nced at Lady Ivory. Thetter''s hand was shaking while slicing her steak weakly. Watching this woman, Sunny''s mind drifted to a memory from days ago.

    <strong>****</strong>

    <strong>Days agoбн</strong>

    "Ivory Norwood."

    Sunny looked over the book she was reading when Abel suddenly squatted down in front of her. She was currently in the farthest corner of the library, reading books that she stack up on the side after finishing them.

    "Glutton, I needed a son. Will you y the role of my son?" Abel didn''t beat around the bush. His lips curled up into a taunting smirk. "And cripple this particr candidate and fill her with nothing but dread."

    "Mhmбн" Sunny hummed and pondered about. "Alright."

    Sunny didn''t ask for a reason before epting, but herck of interest in the reason brought a wicked smile to Abel''s face. For him to ask Sunny to scare someoneбн she didn''t need further details, as that request was enough for an answer.

    This Ivory Norwood got into Abel''s nasty side.

 Chapter 581 Do Not Make The Same Mistake

    Today was the first time the candidates had ever met the infamous ''neglected'' crown prince. It was known to everyone the crown prince rarely бк never made a public appearance. But their first encounter with the crown prince left an unforgettable memory for the candidates.

    "Poordy." Princess Suzanne shook her head and sighed deeply, putting back the teacup on the saucer.

    After their luncheon with the crown prince, thedies went on their separate ways while the crown prince left without another word. Aries, Suzanne, Veronika, and Sybil decided to share a cup of tea in the pavilion in the Hyacinth Pce.

    "Did you think Lady Julienne was hanged?" asked Sybil nervously, darting her eyes between thedies around this marbled table.

    "The crown prince ordered it." Veronika slowly ced her teacup back on the table as she answered. "I doubt anyone will intervene unless the emperor heard about it or anyone in power who can change the crown prince''s decision."

    Sybil''s frown deepened, clutching her trembling hands under the table. "That''s cruel."

    "This is the Haimirich Empire, and we''re on the imperial pce grounds." Veronika cast Sybil a knowing look, unfazed by what had happened just an hour ago. "You should''ve known that the moment we stepped foot on the pce''s ground, we had entrusted our lives to the people in power."

    "Princess Veronika is right. We might''ve disagreed on most things, but she''s right." Suzanne backed up, setting her eyes on Sybil''s nervous countenance. "Ignorance is bliss, Sybil. But also, it is dangerous. For some of us, this is simply an opportunity to be the empress or be in His Majesty''s good graces. However, for others, it was more like a punishment."

    Suzanne slowly shifted her attention to Aries. "More like being imprisoned or being held captive. Am I right, Lady Danie?"

    "Do not make it sound like I am being held hostage, Suzanne." Aries shed Suzanne a subtle smile before blinking and then gazing at Sybil. "However, both of them are correct. The Imperial Pce isn''t all the grandeur there is. One can lose their lives if they''re not careful."

    Princess Sybil pursed her lips into a thin line, studying the threedies'' expressions. She sighed, lowering her eyes to hide the fear and bitterness swirling in them. Unlike the three who were intelligent, graceful, and skillful, Princess Sybil wasбн average, to say the least.

    "Then, why are you here?" she blurted out, biting her tongue awkwardly upon her realization.

    "Because we do not have a choice." Veronika gave her the simplest answer, while Suzanne nodded in agreement.

    "If we refused, we could imagine losing sleep, wondering when will the soldiers of the Haimirich will appear at the borders of ournd," Suzanne continued. "Creating mistakes in this ce can also result in war, but that''s better. You only need to avoid making a mistake. It''s Lady Julienne''s fault for crossing the crown prince, and she got what she deserved."

    "I disagree." This time, Aries chimed in. "I do not think Lady Julienne got what she deserved. Being hanged just because she voice out her thoughts isn''t what she deserved."<sub> </sub>

    "Perhaps you are right, mydy." Suzanne nodded. "However, that doesn''t conform to the imperial pce''s rules. As the crown prince mentioned, his power and authority are only second to the emperor. Lady Julienne might''ve not said it herself, but we are all aware she acted thinking the crown prince was simply a powerless child, unable to do anything."

    Aries stared at Suzanne, and she couldn''t argue with her regarding this. Suzanne might be naturally sweet and friendly, but she was also a princess who always think rationally. She could also be cruel and epting, even for the most inhumane things.

    "All I am saying is, being executed just because you voiced out your thoughts isn''t something a person deserved. It''s too cruel for a punishment." Aries breathed out faintly. "I didn''t say it wasn''t justified especially since the party involve is royalty."

    "I know what you mean, mydy." Suzanne''s firm countenance softened while staring at Aries and then at Sybil. "I''m simply worried any of us willmit the same mistake."

    Aries smiled subtly, understanding Suzanne''s heart. During the past two weeks, the four of them had established a special type of friendship. Even though they were technically rivals for the spot of the empress, they would help each other with the best they had and the best they could.

    Suzanne was simply worried because Sybil was mostly ignorant of most things while Aries was stubborn. She didn''t need to get worried about Veronika, for they were the same; both were practical.

    "I''m scaredбн" Sybil confessed with a tiny voice, clutching her skirt tightly. "I thought the crown prince was adorable, but he scares me."

    "The crown prince is young, and although he looked smaller than his age, keep in mind he''s the crown prince. He is the only son of the emperor and an empress, who could give the emperor a legitimate heir, I''m certain he wouldn''t stay quiet." Veronika concluded solemnly. "If I were in his position, I would also do the same. After all, his life was on the line."

    "Exactly my point." Suzanne nodded, reaching for her teacup elegantly.

    "I cannot disagree." Aries also nodded in agreement, letting out a shallow breath, eyes on Sybil. She then held the princess''s hand, shing her a warm smile when thetter looked back at her. "Do not worry, Your Highness. We will be fine."

    Sybil pursed her lips into a thin line, sping Aries''s hand. She didn''t say anything, but her eyes that held Aries''s gaze for a prolonged period of time were enough for Aries to understand the princess''s heart.

    "Anyway, since they granted us a day of rest, why don''t we stroll in the capital?" Suzanne pped after a moment of silence, grinning at thedies around the round table. "We are allowed to leave the imperial pce today as a chance for us to escape. The Imperial Pce had been suffocating, and I think going out for a day will help us reset our minds."

    The three of them cast Suzanne a look before they looked at each other, only to set their attention back to the excited pair of eyes of the princess of Topia.

 Chapter 582 Thats The Fourth Time

    <strong>In the inner library of the Imperial Pceбн</strong>

    "That is cruel, Piggy." Marse was ying with the me in the candle on top of the table when Sunny sat down across from her. Her finger crossed the me back and forth, making the me dance, but not to the point it would die.

    Marse slowly snapped her eyes at the little ''boy'' across from her, seeing Sunny bring out the snacks from the pockets of her clothes. "Are you seriously nning to hang her? She is a daughter of a duke, and this will definitely cause a gigantic problem."

    "Grandpa can deal with it." Sunny blinked innocently. "He told Sunny to cripple someone, and Sunny is simply doing that."

    "Abel did?" Marse narrowed her eyes, retrieving her finger from the me to cup her jaw. "That''s interesting. Tell me, what else did Abel tell you?"

    "That''s all."

    "He didn''t tell you the details?" she inquired, and Sunny shook her head sideways. "You didn''t ask for the reason?"

    "Do I need to?" Sunny stopped opening the candy she had been wanting to melt in her mouth, looking back at the pair of crimson eyes, which were full of intrigue. "Grandpa told me to cripple ady''s limbs, which means he disliked her. The reason didn''t matter since Grandpa can be petty. Sunny does not want to disappoint herself if the reason turned out to be petty."

    Marse chuckled until the corner of her eyes creased. "Your parents must be so proud of you."

    "Please don''t tell them anything that happened here if they came." Sunny''s expression was nk, but her tone gave out a feeling of candor. Marse burst out inughter, grasping the little girl''s situation.

    "You remind me of Marse." Thetter shook her head after she recovered from herughter. "The only difference was that you are waiting for your parents while sheбн is in twisted."

    "Pretty Grandma, why are you here?" asked Sunny after a minute, changing the subject to fill her curiosity this time.

    "Because thatdy lived."

    "The annoying one?"

    "Yes, the one you ordered to be hanged."

    "How?" Sunny frowned, apparently not pleased by the news.

    "Lady Ivory Norwood intervened. She requested an audience with the emperor before the execution."

    "And Grandpa agreed?"

    "He did."

    "Why?"

    Marse shrugged. "Who knows? Probably, he wants to taste thedy for a change."

    "That is strange, and Sunny is unhappy about it." Sunny smacked her lips before putting the candy inside her mouth. Her chubby cheeks bounced as she chewed and sucked the candy inside her mouth. "I should tell Grandpa on Grandma. He is cheating."

    "Should we?"

    Sunny narrowed her eyes at Marse. "Pretty Grandma, don''t you like my grandmama? Why do you want to put a wedge between them?"

    "This is not a matter of whether I like or dislike Ram."

    "You''re envious." Sunny concluded. "I''m sure Grandpa has his reason. He won''t cheat on my grandmama."

    Marse chuckled as she watched the little girl trying hard to look like a boy enjoying the candy. She leaned back slightly, turning her head towards the window.

    "I guess I am envious," she whispered, crossing her arms under her chest. "However, my curiosity isn''t sated."<sub> </sub>

    "Asking Grandpa will sate your curiosity."

    "But where''s the fun in that?" the side of Marse''s lips stretched into a smirk. "So far, this ce had been veryбн peaceful. After the coven, things had been silent."

    "It is odd, isn''t it, Pretty Grandma?"

    "Definitely." Marse rocked her head, keeping her smirk. "Have you heard about the saying, the calm before the storm?"

    Sunny suddenly paused and gazed at Marse''s figure. "Our lives were calm before a storm hit us like a tornado."

    "Same with me, piggy." Marse''s eyelids drooped as aplex glint flickered across her eyes. "My lifeбн was peaceful, so serene I thought I was in heavenбн only for it to spiral around with a series of misfortune and death."

    "Pretty Grandma, Sunny is curious about your story." Sunny perked up. "Can you tell Sunny the reason ?you are here?"

    Marse snapped her eyes ever so tenderly at the little girl, arching a brow at the enthusiasm swirling in thetter''s eyes.

    "Nothing special." She shrugged. "To make the long story short, I''m stuck."

    "Ohhбн"

    "Anyway, my gut feeling tells me an omen ising." Marse''s eyes narrowed, gazing at the window. "And my gut feeling never failed me."

    "Sunny likes omen." Sunny grinned, and unlike Marse, she seemed excited about what was toe. "By the way, Pretty Grandma, can you teach me alchemy? I want to do aplex spell."

    Marse studied Sunny and replied with disinterest. "You are a terrible liar, Piggy. No, I don''t want to be your sacrificialmb."

    <strong>*******</strong>

    <strong>[ Emperor''s Chancery ]</strong>

    "Your Majesty, why did you agree with her?" asked Conan while sitting on his desk, ced in the corner. The emperor''s office was rearranged weeks ago, and Conan had to move his desk inside.

    In front of the emperor''s desk was a long table where nobles in power would gather while Conan''s was on the side. A set of chairs and a coffee table for the guests filled the other side of the office. This was a better arrangement since Abel was too busy moving from hall to hall, and they didn''t have such leisure since the selection.

    Abel, who was standing in front of the window behind this desk, cocked his head back. His eyes fell on Conan''s intrigued countenance.

    "Becauseбн why not?" he answered, smirking.

    "Your Majesty, the crown prince ordered the execution. Interfering with his orders will put him in a tight spot." Conan frowned, resting his arm against the edge of the desk. "Also, why have you been focusing on Lady Norwood? Although she is remarkably smart and careful, I don''t see any reason for us to take measures around her."

    "I''m not putting measures, Conan." Abel pressed his lips into a thin line. "She intrigues me."

    "Pardon?"

    "Lady Norwoodбн isn''t a little terrible. She''s beautiful and smart, fitting for an empress."

    Conan''s frown grew uglier, sizing up the emperor''s side profile from head to toe. However, he didn''t speak anymore as he nced down at his desk. Unlike the frown on his face, a dangerous glint flickered across his eyes.

    Meanwhile, Abel kept his smile as he stared at the window. His eyes slowly focused on his faint reflection, and then on the faint shadow standing in the corner.

    ''That''s the fourth timeбн'' he counted in his head. ''... I wonder how many more eyes and ears had they nted in my shadows?''

 Chapter 583 Not You Too

    Usually, whenever a kingdom or an empire was having a selection for the crown princess or a queen, the chosen candidates weren''t allowed to leave the pce grounds. But the Haimirich Empire was different.

    After the hectic first two weeks of the candidates, they granted them freedom. It was up to the candidates how they would spend it. Some candidates chose to rest in the Hyacinth Pce, while others, like Aries, Suzanne, Veronika, and Sybil, went out to the capital and took the risk. If anything happened to them while they were outside, it wasn''t the empire''s responsibility. Hence, it was called a risk.

    "This is delicious!" Sybil''s eyes brightened up as the pudding melted in her mouth. Seeing how the princess''s face brightened up, Aries chuckled.

    "I agree. It, indeed, tastes good. A very different staple from what we usually eat in the imperial pce." Veronika wiped the side of her lips with a cloth. Hearing Veronika''s remarks, Suzanne could not help but let out a long-suffering sigh.

    "All we''ve been eating were different dishes of potatoes." Suzanne''s eyes swirled with bitterness at the thought of eating nothing but potatoes for the past two weeks. "How can the emperor love potatoes so much? I feel like I will throw up just the sheer thought of it."

    Ariesughed awkwardly. ''It was actually a joke,'' was what she wanted to contribute to the conversation, but bit her tongue.

    "Just as he said, potatoes can sustain a man in times of crisis. The Empire had been in three wars for the past five years and they won all that," said Veronika in a matter-of-fact tone. "In a war, the knights don''t have the leisure to find a proper meal to eat. It''s the same with those people who were victims of wars."

    "You do not have to exin that, Your Highness. It is not like we cannot understand."

    "Then why not stop whining about the food served to you in the imperial pce?"

    A vein instantly protruded on Suzanne''s temple as her smile didn''t reach her eyes. Meanwhile, Veronika arched a brow.

    "Princess Veronika, voicing out my thoughts isn''tining. Not because I am a woman, I will always smile and keep my mouth shut. I do not lower my volume."

    As Suzanne made her point clear, adding her sarcasm here and there, Aries and Sybil looked at each other. They sighed in unison, shaking their heads, telling themselves, ''here they go again.''

    Although the four of them have a peaceful rtionship, Veronika and Suzanne would still argue. It was as if their day wouldn''t bepleted if they didn''t press each other''s buttons. Well, Sybil and Aries were already used to this now that they let the two banter until they finished their meal.

    After eating to their heart''s content, the four of them went to the shopping center in the capital. Even though they brought almost an entire closet to the imperial pce, thedies would still want new dresses. Their appearance was an important part of the selection and thus, they couldn''t becent with all they got.

    "This is strange, isn''t it?" Veronika mumbled as the three of them, Aries, Veronika, and Sybil sat down on the divan while Suzanne went on to try some dresses to her liking. "Most of the boutiques offer the same design. I understand the trend, but at this rate, it will be a uniform."

    She then cast Aries a look. "Mydy, do you, perhaps, know the reason for this? I had noticed it in the banquets the pce had hosted for the past two weeks."

    "Unfortunately, I have no idea. Before the selection, I went out shopping. However, I realized the trend this day took an unusual turn."

    "Uhmбн" Veronika and Aries snapped their eyes at Sybil when thetter made a quick sound. Thetter cleared her throat as she darted her eyes between Aries and Veronika. "I heard this strange rumor on my way to the imperial pce weeks ago."<sub> </sub>

    Aries and Veronika knitted their brows, looking at each other before setting their eyes back on Sybil. Sybil pursed her lips into a thin line, recalling the strange rumor she heard on her way to the imperial pce weeks ago.

    "I found it strange, so I eavesdropped on a conversation between thedies. They said there was this particrdy that caught the emperor''s and another nobleman''s interest," Sybil shared what she heard.

    "Hah?" Veronika let out a dryugh. "The emperor? And another noble man?"

    Sybil nodded. "They said there wasn''t any particr special in thisdy, but they said the emperor and this noble man fought over her."

    "Sybil, are you certain you heard them correctly?" Aries inquired, which was also Veronika''s question. Aries couldn''t remember anything like that happening in the imperial pce.

    There were many things that happened in that ce; an execution would happen on a daily basis, but Abel and a nobleman fighting over a woman? That was something unheard of. It would be more believable if Abel fought a nobleman and skinned him for everyone to see.

    "Yes, Lady Danie. That is why it was surprising. Also, there was this powder that was now hot in the market. Thedy said she used this special powder that caught the emperor''s attention." Sybil continued with certainty in her voice. "I even bought one, but haven''t used it because I''m scared of the emperor."

    "Hah. So the reason the dresses in most boutiques was because they cannot believe this particrdy caught the attention of the emperor?" Veronika repeated in a questioning manner to rify it, watching Sybil nod. "Hence, they think it was probably the dress or the powder or whatever ornament? How silly."

    "Indeed." Aries was rendered speechless, and she didn''t know how to react.

    Whether or not Sybil heard the rumor correctly, it was highly possible. This was the Haimirich Empire, and things could turn in the most ridiculous route. Still, the rumor was questionable and Aries could only think this rumor evolved into an entirely different story, far different from the original story.

    "I wonderбн" Aries trailed off as the three of them raised their eyes. Her face, Veronika''s, and Sybil''s faces contorted the second their gazended on Suzanne. "... good lord. Not her too."

    "What do you think? They said the design can capture even the emperor''s eyes." Suzanne grinned, wearing the design the three were just talking about just now. But unlike the dullness in the design, the ornaments on her hair and on her dress were too much. One could imagine its paralyzing weight.

    "The way you look at me embarrassed me. You three are too mean." Suzanne frowned as her cheeks dyed red. "Was it bad?"

    "It was terrible," Veronika remarked without a second hesitation. "Ridiculous is even an understatement."

    "Your Highness, apologies." Sybil''sment sounded random, but her eyes swirled with nothing but pity.

    Meanwhile, Aries only let out a deep exhale. ''Whoever started this rumor... surely is yed with thedies'' mind and heart.''

 Chapter 584 Aries Hasnt Been Mentally Present

    Suzanne was someone who usually followed the trend. Even back in her home, before a dress would be out to the market, she would already have a piece. However, she too couldn''t deny that the current trend in the Haimirich Empire was far too inбн or too dramatic.

    To put it simply, it was bad.

    p Seeing the reaction of the three: Aries, Veronika, and even Sybil, Suzanne wasn''t being too picky. The dress was ugly, and it didn''t suit her at all. With a huffed, Suzanne clutched her skirt and stomped away.</anda>

    There was no point in carrying all that weight when she didn''t need to hear anyone''sment to know what they think. Good thing she took the girls, or else the clerks would justpliment her to heaven.

    In the end, Suzanne only bought a couple of dresses that weren''t in the trend but suit her. After that, the three of them left the boutique, strolling the safe street of the capital. That was the n anyway, to enjoy the day strolling as individuals and not as candidatespeting for a title.

    "Anne, I didn''t know you heard that rumor." Aries cast Suzanne a look as they walked side by side. Behind them were Sybil and Veronika, with thetter scolding Sybil for being clumsy.

    Suzanne nced at Aries and sighed. "I just heard it in passing as thedies in the Hyacinth Pce were talking about it among themselves."

    "So everyone had heard about it? It seemed Veronika and I were too slow to pick up such rumors."

    "That Princess probably heard about it but didn''t care. All she can think about is polishing her swords. Hence, it probably didn''t register in her thick head." Suzanne huffed, treading carefully, eyes on Aries''s side profile. "Also, you are also too busy, mydy."

    "I am?" Aries''s brows knitted while Suzanne nodded.

    "After our sses and activities as the candidates, you usually lock yourself in your chambers. I hadn''t seen you wander the Hyacinth Pce and whenever you spend time with us, you''re always the first person to leave." Suzanne pointed out which was nothing but the truth.

    Aries had been particrly someone who didn''t seem to take the selection seriously. And by that, what Suzanne meant was that even though Aries was doing great and fulfilling her duties as a candidate, she seemed to not exert an effort to mingle with the otherdies.

    To put it simply, Aries''s actions were like she was simply going to work, and don''t bring any work once she clocked out.

    "This is why Lady Ivory''s group thinks you are simply arrogant." This time, Aries''s brows rose at Suzanne''sst remarks, confusion apparent in her emerald eyes. Seeing Aries''s reaction, Suzanne let out a deep exhale.

    "Mydy, I''m starting to worry about you," Suzanne confessed under a breath. "How can you not notice their obvious hostility towards you in particr?"

    "I don''t think it''s obvious."

    Suzanne scoffed, stopping in her steps to face Aries squarely. Thetter flinched when Suzanne grabbed her shoulders.

    "Danie, since we''re now friends and call each other by the first name, I hope you do not find my action and words rude. However, are you dense?"

    "Pardon?" Aries blinked twice, casting Veronika and Sybil a look, only to see the two tilt their heads to the side. Before Veronika could speak her displeasure at Suzanne''s ''rudeness'', Suzanne clicked her tongue and faced the other two.<sub> </sub>

    "Don''t you think Danie is a little nonchnt?" she asked, warranting a "huh?" from the other two. "It was obvious Lady Ivory disliked her and that Lady Julienne would always pick on her. However, she''s saying she didn''t know anything about it."

    Sybil blinked innocently. "Lady Danie, howe you haven''t noticed that?"

    "You mean to say you simply do not know that and aren''t purposely ignoring them?" Veronika frowned.

    Aries scanned their expressions and gulped. She looked up, recalling what had happened in the past two weeks since the selection had started.

    The first week was rather peaceful, and Aries was happy since Abel had been with her most of the time. He would be even present during her lessons with Marse, and she had to watch and listen to Marse and Abel''s usual argument. That was the reason Aries would always lock herself inside her chambers.

    In the second week of thepetition, Aries cocked her head to the side. A gigantic question mark appeared in her speech bubble. Seeing the cluelessness dominating her face, the three realized Aries wasn''t simply ignoring the mild bullying in the Hyacinth Pce.

    Who would call it bullying if the victim wasn''t even aware of it?

    "Danie, remember our third session in the etiquette ss?" Suzanne let out a deep exhale. "Lady Julienne purposely dropped her book, so you picked it up for her?"

    "Ohбн" Aries''s lips formed an o-shape, barely remembering such a scenario happening, probably because Abel didn''t let her sleep the entire night.

    "How about the time she was verbally picking on you during our tea lessons?" Sybil perked up in intrigued. "Lady Julienne purposely scolded you for making a sound."

    "She did?" Aries cocked her head to the side. That she remembered, but she thought Lady Julienne was simply reminding her. Also, Aries med Abel for that, since they were chatting in her head. Talk about owning not just her heart but also her mind. Abel had kept her busy and had taken advantage of their telepathic link.

    The three of them listed down the time Lady Ivory''s group, particrly Lady Julienne, picked on Aries, but to no avail. Aries didn''t know all that. She didn''t purposely ignore it for any reason, but it was because she wasn''t mentally there.

    "That''s why we thought what happened to Lady Julienne is karma." Suzanne let out a deep exhale, shaking her head, almost giving up on Aries. "I am unsure whether tough or cry with this revtion."

    "Apologies, if my thoughtlessness worried you." Aries shed them a subtle smile. Although she didn''t care about what they said, she was touched that these three were looking out for her. No wonder the three of them were also wary of Lady Ivory''s group.

    As Aries''s lips parted once more to add something to her remarks, she caught a carriage from the corner of her eyes. She turned and saw a carriage moving at the fastest speed, but her pupils dted when she saw a child running across the street.

    "Wait!" Aries didn''t think and simply yelled, lurching forward to pull the child or push her. Aries wasn''t sure and followed her instinct, tipping the child''s shoulder to push her away from the middle of the street. However, as soon as she did, the loud neigh of the horses rang from her side.

    When she turned, all she saw were the horses'' hooves over her. Her eyes dted, and her heart stopped for a second.

 Chapter 585 The People In Her Shadows

    "Apologies, if my thoughtlessness worried youбн wait!"

    Suzanne, Veronika, and Sybil''s brains went nk when Aries suddenly shoved Suzanne to the side as she ran towards the street. They slowly looked back, only for their pupils to dte upon realizing there was an iing carriage while a child was running across the street.

    <strong>''No,''</strong> was the first thing that came into their minds as they saw Aries push the child''s shoulder with her fingertips, but they were too stunned to react quickly.

    <strong>NEIGH!</strong>

    Aries''s breath hitched when the sound of horses rang on her side. Her heart dropped into her stomach when she turned and saw horses'' hooves hovering over her.

    "Oh," she whispered, letting the adrenaline pump into her nerves'' ends. Without thinking twice, Aries jumped back to save herself, but immediately realized it was toote. She might''ve created distance, but it wasn''t enough.

    The horses would crush her.

    "Abel." Another whisper escaped her lips as her body froze, watching the horses'' hooves stomp her, wide-eyed.

    "Kyaaah!"

    Aries shut her eyes in the face of her impending doom, hearing Sybil''s screams, Veronika''s call, and the echoing sound of neighs. She raised her arms to protect her head, an action her body voluntarily made as she anticipated the striking pain.

    But it didn''te.

    The pain that Aries expected didn''te; instead, she heard loud noises she couldn''t identify precisely. All she recognized was the screeching sound of metals and then something heavy бк as if a log cabin had copsed. Dust also wafted into her nostrils, and Aries detected the scent of woodsбн and blood along with it.

    Slowly, Aries opened one eye to peek. The first thing she saw was a man''s back and his auburn hair shining under the res of the afternoon sun.

    "Rome?" she called in a tiny voice. Her eyes then fell down, and much to her surprise, blood dripped from the end of his sword while two horses'' heads rolled across the street. She covered her gaping mouth, only to realize there were more people around.

    When Aries perked up and looked around, her wide eyes doubled. The street that previously had people casually passing by was now crowded, filled with men wearing cloaks over their casual uniforms, carrying swords, which they pointed at the child and at the carriage.

    Despite the confusion, Aries caught a spear thrust into the carriage wheel that went through the other, which stopped the carriage on time. But at the same it, it resulted in the carriage tipping over to the side.<sub> </sub>

    "Mydy, are you alright?" Aries was snapped back from her trance when a familiar voice caressed her ears. When she turned, her brows furrowed.

    "Climaco, what''s going on?" she blurted out, watching Climaco snap his eyes at the men, who came out of nowhere and now congested the peaceful street.

    Climaco cleared his throat as he set his eyes back to Aries. "Are you alright, mydy?" he repeated worriedly instead of answering Aries. "Are you hurt anywhere?"

    "Noбн but бк" Aries halted as she noticed more men in uniform behind Climaco. When she turned and looked around once more, she finally understood the situation.

    These menбн weren''t just from the Marquess knight brigade. The men in cloaks wore the same in uniforms inside; there was no insignia that could be seen. Meanwhile, Climaco was in their casual uniforms, and then the rest, wearing in clothing бк even civilian clothes.

    As Aries registered the situation, more and more people approached the area to sate their curiosity. Some knights immediately made a line to stop everyone from going further. Meanwhile, the three princesses, Veronika, Sybil, and Suzanne, had their mouths agape at the people who came to stop the carriage.

    Unlike Aries, who had her eyes closed, the three of them couldn''t even blink! Hence, they saw multiple shadows suddenly hovering over them ?that they thought a thick cloud simply covered the sun. Some of them sprinted past them. Actually, they came from all directions; even the guy sitting outside the tea shop while reading the newspaper jumped and brought forth a dagger which he threw at the horse''s leg to stop it.

    Everything happened so fast and in that few seconds'' time frame, a lot had transpired.

    "Whatбн is going on?" Sybil muttered in disbelief before her knees gave way to the shock, relief, and confusion she experienced within a minute time frame.

    "Drag him!" Roman''s loud voice erupted in the air and then followed by the pleas of the coachman while a knight dragged him in the front. When the knight forced the coachman to kneel in front of Roman бк the captain of this squad бк he raised his bloody sword and pointed it at the coachman''s throat.

    "Please, don''t kill me! I did nothing wrong бк I бк please; not бк" The coachman pleaded and pleaded in fear until no one could even understand what he was saying. All they could hear was his shaking voice as he wept, frozen on the spot at the de right in front of his throat.

    "Bring out the passengers." Roman ignored the coachman as he nced at the knights under his orders. "Dead or alive, drag them out. I will make sure they were all dead alongside this coachman."

    "Please, my lord!" The coachman rubbed his palm as the dread he felt from the orders he heard was akin to being sshed by a bucket of cold water.

    As the knights checked the inside of the carriage, a child''s cry erupted in the air and then followed by a woman''s panicking voice. Aries, who just returned to her senses, snapped her eyes and moved her gaze to the source of this sound.

    Her eyes instantly widened, seeing that the child she saved was now surrounded by knights with their swords pointing at the child. Meanwhile, a woman was being blocked from approaching the child. She was crying, "please not my child! She''s just a child бк don''t kill her!" and then followed by more pleas, chorusing with the coachman''s pleading and the murmurings of the bystanders.

 Chapter 586 Mercy

    "Please, not my child! She''s just a child -- don''t kill her!"

    "Please, forgive me! I didn''t -- ugh... the horses just suddenly went wild and galloped! I''ve been a coachman for years and I knew running into the street of the capital was forbidden! Please, sir! Please don''t kill me!"

    "Why is he even galloping in this street? Now, he''s about to get executed and dragged the child with him."

    "Didn''t you hear him? Something spooked the horse. I don''t think he meant it."

    "Even so, it''s his horse and his responsibility."

    "Poor old man. Of all people, he nearly ran over. It seemed he nearly harmed a preciousdy from a powerful house."

    "How unlucky. He must''ve been living his life immorally to be stricken by such a misfortune."

    Aries balled her hand into a tight fist as the crying of the child, the pleading of the coachman and the mother of the child, and the murmurings of the bystanders filled the air. Her lips curved down, gazing at the knight that was pointing a sword at the innocent child.

    "Mydy --" Climaco halted when Aries sauntered off, approaching the child she saved.

    "Withdraw your sword now." Her eyes glinted as she red at the knight. "I saved this child and put my life at risk. How dare you point your sword at this child?"

    The knight kept his lips in a tight line, withdrawing his sword back. He took a step to the side, lowering his head.

    "Apologies, mydy. I''m simply executing the orders."

    "And what is this order?"

    "To not let anyone who attempted to harm or harmed herdyship go -- intentional or not," the knight exined.

    "Even if it''s a child?"

    "Even if it''s a newborn or an elderly, mydy."

    Aries balled her hand into a fist, looking back at Climaco. Climaco lowered his eyes immediately, making her shift her eyes to Roman. Thetter also lowered his eyes and bowed.

    While looking at every knight around, she raised a question. "And if you failed to execute this order?"

    "We must pay for the price, mydy," answered the knight, causing the vein under Aries'' temple to protrude.

    ''Abel, you...'' Aries secretly ground her teeth before she huffed. ''... I want to get angry at him for cornering me, but if not for him, I would''ve been dead.''

    Aries thought that Dexter and Abel withdrew the people from following her like shadows. After all, Aries had been in the Imperial Pce and she had only taken Climaco, as he was her personal knight. She didn''t know that it wasn''t that those two ordered these people to stop following Aries.<sub> </sub>

    It was just that Aries had been busy she didn''t notice their presence. It could also be that they were just good at hiding. Either way, the point here was that Abel wasn''t giving her a chance to intervene. If he ordered these knights to execute anyone who attempted or harmed her -- intentional or not -- these knights wouldn''t bat an eye on drawing their swords.

    Failing to execute the order meant death for these knights.

    To put it simply, Aries couldn''t just blindly take sides. Choosing the knights meant they could do anything to this coachman and this child. If she took this child and this coachman and the passengers, that means these knights would most likely slit their own throats.

    A deep exhale slipped past her lips, pinching the bridge of her nose.

    ''I''ll coax himter,'' she thought. ''I think he said he wants to flirt publicly in passing, as he felt like he''s been a secret lover since the beginning.''

    Aries snapped her eyes open and set them at the knight. "You did a good job, Mister Knight. However, I cannot allow you to harm this child. It was not this child''s fault, but it was mine." She waved, squatting down in front of the child.

    "Apologies for scaring you," she expressed with a soft tone, nting a hand on top of the child''s head. "Were you hurt anywhere?"

    Aries raised her brows, observing the child while holding her hand. Her eyes softened with sympathy, seeing the graze on the child''s palm. She raised her soft eyes at the pair of teary eyes of the child, taking out a handkerchief to wrap the child''s hand.

    "Climaco, take this child to the nearest clinic. I don''t think she inflicted major injuries, but I want to make sure she is left unharmed." Aries shed the child a kind smile and wiped her tears with her thumb. "Do not worry, my child. Just be mindful next time."

    She then assisted herself up, facing the direction of the woman, which she assumed was the child''s mother. Thetter was looking back at Aries wide-eyed; there were still lingering tears in the corner of her eyes and her lips were still quivering, unable to pass through because of the knights blocking her.

    "Let her pass," Aries ordered at the knights blocking the woman. The knights looked at each other for a second before stepping aside, giving way to the woman.

    "Mydy!" the woman rushed towards the child and immediately knelt in front of Aries. "Please forgive my child for her carelessness. Just punish me for being a bad mother. It''s not her fault!"

    Aries sighed faintly. "Do not worry. Keep your eye on her next time. A knight will assist you and your child to get her checked."

    The woman raised her head at Aries, and tears immediately pooled in her eyes. "Thank you for your mercy and benevolence, mydy!" she yelled, bowing until her forehead was touching the ground. She repeated on thanking Aries, causing thetter to squat down to stop her.

    "It''s fine." Aries held the woman''s shoulder, helping her sit upright. "We are lucky that these gentlemen were here to our rescue. Be careful next time and always protect your child."

    "Yes... mydy."

    Aries smiled, patting the woman''s dirty and rough hands gently as thetter''s tears flooded her face. "Now, follow the knight to make sure there was no internal damage."

    "You have my gratitude, mydy. May the heavens bless you!"

    Aries nodded as she assisted the woman to stand on her feet. Thetter then immediately went to carry her child and followed the knight to the hospital. Right after Aries dealt with the child and her mother, she turned on her heel to face Roman and the coachman.

 Chapter 587 Its Irritating

    Aries''s eyes fell on the coachman, still pleading for his life. She caught the coachman''s bleeding leg and noticed his twisted ankle. And yet, the coachman just pleaded for his life without regard to his other injuries.

    When Aries raised her eyes, Roman was already facing her solemnly. But instead of speaking, Aries marched towards Roman and stood on his side. She sized him up from head to toe, and then the other knights around. As she did so, Aries caught some knights dragging an injureddy and a man from inside the carriage. Both were injured; the youngdy was unconscious while the man was grunting in pain.

    "They already met an unfortunate ident," said Aries, setting her eyes towards Roman. "Do you n on executing them? Right here? In front of me? And everyone?"

    "Yes." Roman''s answer was quick and unwavering, looking back at her solemnly. "They didn''t meet an unfortunate ident, mydy. They invited it. If only they weren''t driving carelessly. They could''ve harmed more people because of their carelessness."

    "Even so, that worst-case scenario didn''t happen."

    "The worst-case scenario is you, mydy, getting heavily injured. They were fortunate we were here."

    Aries balled her hand into a tight fist at the absurd response she got from Roman. Did he mean her life was worth more than a hundred civilians?

    "Pleaseбн mydyбн I truly didn''t mean it. I was trying to stop and control the horsesбн"

    Aries gazed at the coachman as he wept for mercy. His voice had already sounded rasped from all the pleading he did. But s, Roman was unfazed.

    "Will you be in trouble if I intervened?" she asked, casting Roman a sharp look.

    "Yes."

    "Do you trust me, though?"

    "Yes."

    "Will you listen to my orders?"

    Roman paused. "Depends."

    Aries rocked her head in understanding, knowing Roman wasn''t her knight, but a knight under Abel''s order. Unlike Climaco and the knights from the Marquess, Roman would prioritize Abel''s orders over hers. Hence, she understood Roman''s disposition.

    "This coachman and the passengers of this carriage are injured. Send them to the closest infirmary to get them treated. Once you are sure they were already out of harm''s way, conduct a thorough investigation and get them tried. If he was found guilty and proven driving recklessly, punish him ordingly." She faced the coachman as she spoke firmly. "However, if he was found innocent, let them go."

    Roman remained silent as he nced at Aries''s side profile. His eyes then fell on the coachman and caught the sliver of hope in his eyes.

    "As you wished, mydy." Roman bowed, finding no fault in Aries''s orders. He wouldn''t allow it even if he had to die to let these people go, knowing Abel would execute them with his own hands. After all, the Emperor specifically repeated over and over to protect Aries or Roman could only think of the worst that Abel could do.

    "Coachman, you are seriously lucky to have been saved by the Lady of the House Vandran," Roman said louder as if he wanted everyone to know who thisdy was.

    "Mydy, thank you for your mercy!" The coachman went on and on, thanking Aries, bowing until his forehead was hitting the concrete ground.

    "Take them to the nearest infirmaryбн" Roman raised a hand, ordering the knights under his unit, which they all executed efficiently. Meanwhile, Climaco and the knights of the Marquess brigade dispersed the thick crowd.

    As everyone started getting moving with a knight assisting the coachman, Aries faced Roman once more.

    "Don''t go anywhere, Rome. I want to talk to you," she muttered, ncing in the three princesses'' direction, only to see the confusion and shock in their eyes. "But for now, prepare a carriage for the esteemed guests of the empire. They must have been confused and terrified of what happened."

    "But mydy, are you sure you''re alright?"<sub> </sub>

    Aries looked back at him. "Of course бк" she halted when Roman reached for her wrist, flipping it to see her palm.

    "He will not be pleased to see another wound on you."

    "It''s just a graze." Aries closed her first and snatched her hand away from him. "I''ll treat itter so he wouldn''t notice it."

    Roman blinked twice, watching her look away. His eyes fell on her grazed hand once more. It wasn''t bleeding, but he highly doubt Abel wouldn''t notice.

    "Very well." Still, he didn''t press on it anymore as he bowed before he supervised everyone to clear the street. Meanwhile, Aries walked towards Veronika, Sybil, and Suzanne''s vantage point to soothe them.

    <strong>******</strong>

    <strong>[ INNER PALACE: EMPEROR''S CHANCERY ]</strong>

    The sound of wounds cracking along with bones crushing caressed everyone''s ears. Every passing second felt dreadful, watching the emperor pin a servant''s head against the table while the few nobles stood in the corner of the room.

    Just moments ago, this servant came in to serve them tea, only for the emperor to stop them and swiftly pinned this servant''s head against the table.

    Thanks to Conan, these noblemen got to know that the tea served to them was poisoned. Despite that, seeing Abel not speak a word with his one hand on the side of the servant''s head, pinning it against the surface of the table, was even more terrifying than the fact they all nearly got poisoned!

    The nobles looked at each other with shaking eyes before setting their eyes back to Abel. The emperor was still in the same position, but somehow, he looked like his mind was drifting elsewhere.

    "Your Majesty, allow the knights to take this servant to the dungeon." Conan approached Abel, standing a meter away from the emperor. Seeing that thetter wasn''t reacting, Conan cleared his throat. "Your Majesty, this is your chancery and it''ll be troublesome if their filthy blood taints this sacred ce and your precious clothes."

    Abel slowly snapped his eyes ever so tenderly at Conan. "Conan. it seems fifty knights are not enough. Add another fifty бк two hundred in her shadow."

    "Your Majesty, due to the recent wars the empire had taken part in, the number of knights the empire had lost and was injured hurt the royal knighthood. The only knights we can gather are the new recruits." Conan frowned, immediately grasping Abel''s remarks.

    "Then how about hiring more mercenary groups?"

    Conan mulled about it for a moment. "I will contact all thepetent mercenary groups in the empire."

    "Good, good." Abel rocked his head in satisfaction while the nobles had their mouths agape as the two still have the leisure of engaging in a casual conversation as if Abel wasn''t pinning someone''s head.

    "Your Majesty, the servant." Conan pointed out.

    <strong>CRACK!</strong>

    "Ah, rightбн I forgot." Abel snapped his eyes and raised his hand, gazing down at the servant, whose eyes already popped out of their sockets as he ended up crushing his head. "Feed him to the dogs. Such bad timing means he brings bad luck."

    The knights on standby immediately rushed to the emperor and dragged the lifeless body of the servant. Meanwhile, Abel took out a ck handkerchief to wipe his hand and faced the nobles.

    "Humor me." The side of his lips stretched until his eyes were squinting. "Which part of, ''not even a graze,'' could she not understand? It''s irritating. She better not tell me, ''it''s just a graze,'' but s, lest she does, any suggestion, what I should do with her?"

    "???"

 Chapter 588 Romans Punishment

    Veronika, Sybil, and Suzanne were utterly shocked and puzzled at the sudden turn of events. They nned this day to enjoy, only for Aries to put herself in danger to help a child she didn''t even know. But what was even more surprising was that the number of knights бк which they assumed they were бк appeared to save Aries.

    Since the urrence was still fresh and Sybil nearly fainted, Aries sent them off first with the carriage Roman prepared for thedies. Climaco had escorted the carriage of thedies under Aries''s orders.

    Meanwhile, Aries stayed behind and rode a carriage with Roman. He could''ve ridden his steed, but he couldn''t refuse Aries''s invitation.

    "Will you exin to me what is going on, Rome?" Aries inquired, staring at Roman sitting across from her inside the carriage.

    "Mydy, I don''t think you do not understand what happened. You jumped in the middle of the road to save a child. Therefore, we had no choice but to take action."

    "That''s not what I mean, Rome. You don''t have to feign ignorance." Her expression grew colder.

    "I''m not feigning ignorant. What I had told you was all there is. We''re following His Majesty''s orders." Roman looked at her straight in the eye, showing no vestige of deception in his expression and tone. "A month ago, His Majesty withdrew all the people he nted in your shadows, saying you''ll feel ufortable. However, what happened on the night of the coven changed his perspective."

    He then hung his head low. "It was my fault, mydy. Apologies."

    "Why is that your fault?" she arched a brow, folding her arms under her chest.

    "I failed His Majesty and, because of my negligence, you and his Majesty were put in danger."

    "The coven is already an event that puts Abel in danger," she argued firmly. "But that raised more questions to me, Rome. If Abel withdrew all the people in my shadows and only let you follow me, howe you didn''t stop me that day? You must''ve noticed where we are heading and would''ve stopped us."

    Aries narrowed her eyes as she recalled that day of the coven. "Moreover, if it was, indeed, due to negligence, Abel would''ve executed you. After all, he''s a man who doesn''t keep ipetent people around him."

    There was a momentary silence that descended upon them. Aries waited patiently, staring back at Roman while thetter kept quiet. When his lips parted, Aries arched a brow.

    "Pardon?" she tilted her head to the side. "What did you say?"

    "That young miss, His Majesty''s granddaughter, had incapacitated me," exined Roman solemnly. "Not just me, but also the knights'' in the Marquess'' brigade."

    "What?" Aries frowned. "But I was with Sunny the whole time."

    "She might be a child, but in the blood hierarchy, she''s far superior to us. She didn''t need to leave your side to incapacitate us. Although we weren''t sure how she did it, what we''re certain of was that she stopped us from following you the moment you left that bistro," Roman exined his side of the story not to get sympathy or understanding from her, but to give Aries the idea of the people surrounding her. Aries might not need this reminder, but it wouldn''t hurt to do so.

    "I seeбн" Aries rocked her head in understanding. "... but Abel didn''t punish you for it, did he?"

    "He did."

    "What did he do?"

    "He told Violet about it."<sub> </sub>

    "???" Aries blinked twice as she processed the answer he had given her.

    "He told Violet about it?" she repeated to rify in case she misheard him, only for her face to contort when Roman nodded. This time, he showed a different emotion in his eyes as he frowned.

    "Violet was disappointed in me, which I understand since my duty was to protect you and I failed." A deep exhale slipped past Roman''s lips as if what Abel did was far worse than being tortured. "That is why I will not make the same mistake again."

    Aries gazed at him apologetically. "I can''t believe I will say this, but how I wished you were just tortured."

    "The feeling was mutual, mydy." Roman frowned, lowering his eyes. "Violet wouldn''t even talk to me."

    Another sigh slipped past their lips. Aries shook her head, feeling sorry for Roman. She could imagine Violet ignoring him, and Roman in distress about it. It was amazing how Violet never brought it up to Aries even though they were business partners, but Violet probably didn''t want to sound like she was being nosey.

    ''Still, I feel sorry for him.'' Aries studied Roman''s dejected mood, and somehow, she couldn''t see the admiring wolf who would fight in the front line ande back in one piece. In her eyes, instead of a vicious wolf, he looked like a neglected puppy.

    How cute.

    ''He truly cherishes Violet.'' A subtle smile appeared on her face, setting her eyes at the window. ''I''ve been so focused on learning witchcraft that I didn''t know these things happening around me. I should help Roman next time if Violet still hadn''t forgiven him. Oh, these twoбн they should just get married.''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhile, in the forbidden pce within the Imperial Pce groundsбн</strong>

    Marse was sitting on the intricate garden chair with her leg resting over the other. Her arms were folded under her chest, letting the tea on the table go cold as she watched Sunny work on the nt pot.

    "Piggy, you are truly fond of doing such things, huh?" Her voice erupted in the air. "However, didn''t you invite me to have tea so I can think about what to do with that man sleeping inside the mansion?"

    "Yes, but I will finish weeding."

    "What is so special about that, anyway? It''s surprising you have such patience."

    "I find it therapeutic," Sunny replied as she carefully pulled out the nt, taking out the root with it. When she held it up slightly, she raised her head and looked back at Marse. "You seeбн it''s like pulling someone''s head off with the spine intact."

    A misced innocent smile dominated Sunny''s face while Marse''s brows rose, staring at the little girl holding the nt while its root dangled down.

    "Hahбн you''re right." Marse unfolded her arms and sauntered towards her. "That sounds better than drinking poisoned tea."

    "It''ll take your stress away." Sunny giggled as Marse squatted beside her. "But careful on this part. The finger I nted hadn''t grown yet."

    Marse gazed at the child in awe. "Good lord, can I call you master? Abel shamelessly ims he''s a connoisseur of murder, but I guess you''re the connoisseur of torture. He''s dullpared to you."

 Chapter 589 Slander

    The next dayбн

    Aries wanted to apologize to Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika right after they reached the Imperial Pce. However, she postponed it for the following day to give thedies, especially give Sybil more time, as she was very terrified about it.

    The candidates were only granted a day''s rest, but for emergency reasons, they postponed their lessons for today. They heard it had something to do with the current state of affairs and the emperor''s mood. For Aries, it sounded too suspicious of a coincidence, but she didn''t have the leisure to dwell on that. It worked to her advantage, anyway.

    "Thank you for epting my invitation for tea." Aries smiled at thedies sitting around the round table. She had prepared all night for this afternoon tea and even asked permission to use the pavilion, lest another candidate pick on them.

    Her eyes glossed over their faces and sighed. Suzanne seemed to be fine with a slight trace ofck of sleep. Meanwhile, Veronika was overall fine, but her eyes swirled with intrigue. Sybil, on the other hand, was paler than usual and the dark bags under her eyes were enough for everyone to know she didn''t get a wink of sleepst night.

    "Allow me to start this off with an apology." Aries raised her chin and looked back at them apologetically. "Please forgive my rudeness. I know we had our ns and getting involved in an ident wasn''t on the list. However, Iбн"

    "Lady Danie, you do not have to apologize for your valorous deed." Veronika cut Aries off with a deep exhale. "We are surprised and confused, and I wouldn''t deny that. However, how can we me you when all you did was help a powerless child? I cannot call myself human if I saw it myself and did nothing."

    "I agree with her." Suzanne nodded in agreement.

    Sybil bit her inner lip. "I was scared, Lady Danie. I thought you were going to die and there was so much blood. But I''m not angry about what you did. I think it was a sort of admiring," came out a tiny voice; although her countenance seemed to contradict her ims.

    "I appreciate your understanding." Aries smiled subtly at them. "I truly mean it."

    "Since that is already resolved, we''re curious, Lady Danie." Veronika voiced out after a moment while Suzanne nodded, and Sybil perked up. "Who are those people yesterday?"

    Aries didn''t answer immediately as she gazed at their faces. Curiosity dominated in their eyes, which was understandable and something Aries had expected.

    ? ''I didn''t want to lie to themбн'' she thought, shing a polite smile. ''But it''s not like I will liepletely. I''ll just leave some detail out.''

    "They''re from my brother''s knighthood brigade," Aries answered, watching them nod as if they had guessed it right. "As you know, our House and the Emperor weren''t particrly in a close rtionship. Although we conform to the empire''sw, we don''t fully support the emperor and his tyranny."

    Aries let out a deep exhale as she kept sinking in this ''web of lies'' they had already made up for the empire''s sake.<sub> </sub>

    "It''s no secret that before my betrothal with the crown prince of the Maganti Empire was a plot devised by the Imperialist." Aries squashed down her guilt for lying in their faces after all the goodness they had shown her. "The Maganti Empire was on a brink of rebellion when I stepped foot in theirnd. In other words, the emperor sent me to my grave just so the Marquess, my brother, who was also the leader of the aristocratic faction, wouldn''t gain more power since the royal court had been pressuring the emperor to take an empress."

    "The emperor was afraid that if the royal court schemed and seeded, I''d get crowned the Empress. Meaning, our House Vandran will be just as influential and powerful as the Emperor," she continued. "I was lucky that my brother treasured me as his only family, and came to my rescue when the uprising broke out."

    "But even after all that and I returned to the empire, my brother was seeking justice for all the trauma I went through. But we didn''t expect the emperor woulde up with a selection and invite me as one of the candidates," Aries added, pinching her leg to keep going with this lie. "My brother had been restless since the news was made public. I didn''t know he nted people to look after me, and only found out about it yesterday. I cannot me him, though. His sister was now living inside the imperial pce and knowing the emperor, he was afraid of what could happen while I was here."

    Aries paused and took a deep breath, gulping to soothe the dryness in her throat. "I''m really sorry that they surprised you, but I know they didn''t mean harm."

    "I seeбн" Veronika rocked her head as Aries''s exnation wasбн faultless. She was acquainted with Ismael and had heard snippets of the story, and Aries''s help in this uprising. But now that Aries was back in the Haimirich Empire, no one could me her and the Marquess. After all, Ismael had the same worry.

    "Lady Danieбн" Suzanne raised her hand and reached for Aries''s hand. "Do not say sorry. We should be the ones who should sympathize with you. You''ve been through a lot, and even after all that, you still have to experience this just because you are born in a powerhouse."

    "We cannot me the Marquess for taking extreme measures." Sybil let out a deep exhale. "He reminds me of my brother. My brother is also overprotective and had made a fuss when our kingdom received the invitation from the empire."

    Sybil forced an understanding smile as if she? was relieved after hearing Aries''s exnation. "But I have to go since I don''t want to put our kingdom in a tight situation."

    "Lady Danie, do not worry. We understand you very well, and we will always have your back." Veronika also shed Aries a smile, making thetter almost die in guilt.

    "Thank you for understanding me and my dilemma." Aries''s eyes softened, biting her tongue as punishment. "Shall we take a stroll in the inner pce after this?"

    The three looked at each other and smiled. When they faced Aries, they nodded in unison.

    "I don''t think there''ll be an ident here!" Sybil cheered.

    Little did they know, the imperial pce had more "idents" daily than outside.

 Chapter 590 TheyтАЩre Mannequins*

    "Now that I think about it, Lady Danie, you seem to be very familiar with the Inner Pce!"

    Aries nced to her side and smiled at Suzanne as they followed her around.

    "I would visit my brother asionally. So I had wandered around in the past," she exined and Suzanne, Veronika, and Sybil responded with a nod.

    After sharing an afternoon tea, they decided to stroll. Ridiculous as it may sound, but since the selection, no one бк even the candidates'' instructors бк toured them around. Or rather, they toured the candidates in the Hyacinth Pce. Most of the time, the servants would simply lead the way whenever they needed to go to another ce.

    "The Imperial Pce is huge," Veronikamented while she looked around the very long hallway. "I thought our Royal Pce was already luxurious. But now that I''m seeing the empire pce, I''m humbled."

    "No wonder anyone wants to live in here," Sybil chimed in, holding Aries''s arms sweetly andpletely forgetting about the pce rules.

    It was just them, so none of the three scolded Sybil for forgetting the pce etiquette. Moreover, they realized that the people in the inner pce didn''t have the luxury of menial things, as everyone''s hands were full.

    Suzanne cleared her throat, hastening her steps until she was walking beside Aries.

    "Lady Danie," she called cautiously, making Aries raise her brows at this sudden discretion. "You said you''ve wandered the imperial pce in the past, correct?"

    Sybil and Veronika, who were hearing Suzanne''s cautious voice, furrowed their brows. Meanwhile, Aries walked slower.

    "Yes."

    "Was it true this ce is haunted?"

    "Pardon?"

    "I heard from the otherdies and even some rumors before going to the empire." Suzanne sighed, looking at Aries with intrigue as if thetter was the only person who could give her enlightenment. "They said because the emperor was a tyrant, peoplee in here but not everyone leaves this ce alive. Is that true?"

    "Ahh..." Aries let out a shortugh as she nced at the three, only to see the deep curiosity in their eyes.

    ''Yes. That''s definitely not a rumor,'' was what Aries wanted to say almost immediately but had to bite her tongue so as not to scare thedies. Death was a normal urrence on the imperial pce grounds and Aries''s theory for why they didn''t tour thedies in the pce was because of the horrors embedded in this seemingly glorious ce. But she knew the parts she had shown them were still within the safe zones.

    "I''m not sure," she replied, sporting an awkward smile. "I''ve been here multiple times with my brother, but so far, I haven''t witnessed such an unsettling..."

    *shoot*

    Aries trailed off, freezing on the spot with her smile intact when an arrow suddenly came from the open window, crossing inches from her to the wall. She slowly turned her head towards the wall to confirm an arrow nearly struck her temple if she was a step ahead.

    Meanwhile, Suzanne and Sybil, who were sandwiching Aries, bore an ashen countenance. They also turned to look at the wall, only for their pupils to double seeing an arrow embedded in it.

    Did... someone shoot an arrow at them? Or was it a lost one?

    "That..." Veronika''s puzzled voice snapped Aries back to her senses.<sub> </sub>

    "Haha... it seems there were some changes in this area and it was now a ce for a training ground." Ariesughed awkwardly, tugging Suzanne and Sybil''s arms to bring them back to their senses. "Let''s go back."

    Aries didn''t give out a detailed exnation as she dragged Sybil and Suzanne, taking advantage of the fact the two were still in shock. She shed Veronika an awkward smile, and thetter said nothing as she followed.

    Their steps were quick, but not to the point they were running. More like they were in a hurry to distance themselves from that area because Aries said, ''it became a training ground.''

    However, just as they were about to make a turn, they froze when the door at the end of the hallway opened from the inside. With wide eyes, they watched as two knights walked out of the room, carrying lifeless bodies on their shoulders.

    Noticing the four figures several steps from them, the knights also froze the second they met thedies'' mortified gaze. Thedies and the knights stared at each other in silence for only three seconds, before thetter bowed and walked away.

    "..."

    "La бк Lady Danieбн? Are you sure you haven''t witnessed anything out of the ordinary during your visits to the imperial pceбн?" Suzanne muttered, staring nkly at the hands of the man on the knight''s shoulder swaying sideways before they made a turn.

    Meanwhile, Sybil''s expression just totally went nk while Veronika''s eyes swirled withplexity. The three, although aware what they just saw wasn''t a figment of imagination, hadn''t processed it well to reality.

    "Ha haбн are those mannequins..?" Sybilughed nervously, denying facts just so she could sleepter.

    Aries''s face contorted. "Well, I guessбн they''re preparing for the uing festival that honors the deadбн?"

    "Such aбн festival exists?" Suzanne looked at Aries with brows raised, hoping for a ''yes'' answer.

    "I think I heard about such a festival," Veronika quickly backed up.

    "Oh, so they''re mannequins!" Sybil also turned to Aries, carrying deep hope that Aries would confirm their guess.

    Darting her eyes between Suzanne and Sybil, Aries wept internally. Wasn''t this area considered a safe zone?! These two, Suzanne and Sybil, weren''t easy to fool but at this moment, it was obvious they would rather have Aries lie and live in the bliss of ignorance than live every second in fear.

    "Ye бк yes," Aries answered through her gritted teeth. "They''re justбн decorations. Mannequins that were made out of soft materials." бк like real flesh and bones!

    "That gave me a scareбн haha!" Sybil patted her chest while Suzanne heaved a sigh of relief. "So it''s really for the festival. What a relief!"

    "Hahaбн let''s return to the Hyacinth Pce. It seems there''s a bit of change in here." Aries urged, tugging their arms.

    With that being said, the four of them walked back to the route they came from. However, just as they reached the inner pce, they stopped when they heard someone call Aries from a distance.

    "Lady Danie!" The four of them slowly turned to their left. There, they saw Conan, the emperor''s aide, jog his way toward them.

    ''Sir Conan?'' Aries furrowed her brows as she watched Conan, taking a step back on instinct. ''Uhбн for some reason, I don''t feel good about this.''

 Chapter 591 Are You Out Of Your Mind?

    "Greetings, Your Grace."

    The candidates curtsied gracefully as Conan, the emperor''s trusted and loyal aide, approached them. When they straightened their backs to face him, they brought forth their delicate smiles, but their eyes failed to disguise their curiosity.

    "Greetings Princesses, and mydy." Conan smiled, setting his eyes at Aries. Thetter raised her brows, blinking cluelessly, refraining from casually asking him a question.

    The four of them waited for Conan to state his reason, only to raise their brows when Conan just kept his eyes on Aries. Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika cast each other a quick look, but when they set their eyes back to Conan, all they saw was his figure walking past them.

    As the wind blew past their hair, the three stood frozen. Looking to their side, their brows knitted. Meanwhile, Aries held her breath, looking back at Conan, wide-eyed.

    "Lady Danie, where is it?" Conan inquired desperately, holding Aries''s hand as if the candidates weren''t there. "I heard what happened andбн do you hate me so much?"

    "Ah?"

    "How can you be in an ident just hours after you stroll in the capital? Seriously, do you have a ma for trouble!?" he harrumphed. "I told you multiple times! Take care of yourself! Am I a joke to you that my reminders had no value?"

    Ariesughed awkwardly, ncing at Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika, only to see their mouths falling open. Just their eyes alone were enough to know what was in the princesses'' minds; they were puzzled why Conan was acting all chummy with her.

    "Ha haбн Your Graceбн" Aries awkwardly peeled Conan''s fingers from her whilst gritting her teeth. "It seemed the news quickly reached your ears бк"

    "Not just quick, but we get it in real time!"

    "Ahhбн" her face contorted, taking a step back to create distance from him. "Did my brother trouble you? I haven''t seen him, but it seemed he had been watching me closely."

    "The Marquess?" Conan cocked his head to the side. "Lady Danie, do you think I''d react like this if it''s just the Marquess Vandran? Do you know what His Ma бк"

    A vein protruded on her forehead as Aries quickly lurched and kicked his shin with discretion. Her ruthless action stopped him from speaking further, gasping, trying to process the striking pain in his shin.

    "Oh, no! Sir Conan, are you alright?" Aries gasped dramatically while Conan hunched in, raising her eyes at the three princesses. "It seemed the duke needs to have a word with me. Please give us a moment while I assist him."

    Aries didn''t wait for their response as she grabbed Conan''s shoulder and dragged him to a distance. She looked back to see if the distance from the three was safe enough to argue, shing them an awkward smile, before ring daggers at him.

    "Are you out of your mind?" she whispered yell, grinding her teeth, hiding her face from the three princesses. "What do you think you''re doing?"

    Conan raised his fiery eyes at her, grinding his teeth as well. "Lady Aries, I should be the one saying that! Are you out of your mind? What do you think you''re doing jumping in the middle of the street just to save a child, knowing there''s an iing carriage?"

    "Of course, I''d do what a normal person would do!" she hissed. "How the hell did you expect me to do nothing when I know I could''ve helped?"

    "And if His Majesty and the Marquess didn''t nt their people in your shadows? Do you think you won''t get crushed like a bug?" Conan gasped in distress, stopping himself from grabbing her hair to fight her again. Aries was too stubborn and definitely not good for his mental health бк both Aries and Abel! "Girlбн if something happened to you, do you think His Majesty will stay still? He''ll crush that child with his bare hands, her family, her rtives, and continue to torment them for ten generations!"

    "But nothing like that happened to me. Am I correct?"

    "Wowбн" Conan scrunched his nose up, looking at her up and down. "Look at that palm and tell me nothing happened."<sub> </sub>

    "It''s just a grazeбн! It''s nothing serious." Aries pinched the bridge of her nose in distress. "Aren''t you going overboard?"

    His expression turned uglier. "Did you know? I nearly lost my tongue thest time I said that nonsense you just spewed just now?"

    "Oh,e onбн!"

    "Ughhбн!" Conan took a step back and raised his hands, flexing his fingers before closing his fist.

    "Whatever!" he huffed, clicking his tongue in irritation, and then pointed a finger at her. "Don''t go to me seeking my help, then. Hmph!"

    "Tssбн as if!" Aries grumbled, lifting her skirt as she turned to leave. As soon as she faced the princesses and saw them looking at her with intrigued, Aries realized they were watching. Her lips automatically turned into a polite smile, twisting her body smoothly to look back at Conan.

    "Thank you for your reminders, Your Grace," she said louder, trying her best to sound polite so Suzanne, Veronika, and Sybil would hear it.

    Conan snorted and spoke under his breath. "What a hypocrite."

    "One more nonsense, and I''ll y you from head to toe." She widened her eyes and mumbled, warning him to get along.

    "Tsk!"

    Aries then smiled again. "We''ll be on our way. Have a great day, my lord."

    "It''s already ruined, thanks to you." Conan huffed as he stomped his way in the other direction, leaving Aries gritting her teeth.

    ''That guyбн! He better not sleep in his chambers here or I''ll visit him tonight to teach him a lesson.'' Aries''s eyes zed, watching Conan''s retreating back. She stared at him for several seconds and then smiled warmly upon looking back at the three.

    Aries kept her friendly demeanor as she returned to thedies. "Apologies for that."

    "Lady Danie, we didn''t know you have a friendly rapport with Duke Hakebourne," said Suzanne, looking back in the direction where Conan left. The other two looked at Aries with intrigue, waiting for her to give them enlightenment.

    "Hahaбн it''s not what it looks like." Aries denied with a smile. "It was just that since my brother is the marquess, we usually coordinate with His Majesty''s secretary. Hence, I had interacted with him a few times."

    "Ohhбн is that so?" Suzanne rocked her head, but her eyes shone a little doubt in Aries''s exnation.

    p "Yes. It seemed that my brother made a fuss about what happened yesterday, but it''s alright." Aries chuckled, motioning her hand ahead. "Why don''t we resume our stroll? I''ll fill you in on our way to the west garden."</anda>

    Suzanne pursed her lips, ncing at Sybil and Veronika. When the two nodded in agreement, Suzanne also nodded and looked back at Aries.

    "Alright, Lady Danie."

 Chapter 592 This Is Just A Coincidence... Right?

    Since the selection had started and Aries made acquaintance with Suzanne, Veronika, and Sybil, she only then felt stuck in a cobweb of lies. She was no saint, and lying for her own good was never a problem. Even when she deceived not just the entire Haimirich Empire for iming to be Danie Circe Vandran, Aries never had a problem with it.

    It was the same when she returned to the Maganti Empire as Danie Circe Vandran, betrothed to the crown prince, Joaquin Imperial. Aries was one of those who weaved all these webs of lies to be told in the history for the next generation to know.

    But nowбн these lies had been prickling under her skin. The princesses were good to her; they might not be perfect and they might have different opinions on different matters, but Aries considered them her friends.

    Therefore, the guilt weighing her heart down whenever she would have to lie right in front of their faces was paralyzing. But she didn''t have a choice.

    "For a second, I thought Lady Danie and Duke Hakebourne were friends," Sybil remarked with a chuckle, walking beside Aries. "Even so, the duke is too considerate to remind us where to go because he''s worried about the changes in the pce."

    Aries chuckled weakly. "The emperor''s aide is known to be considerate, even though our house always shes with the emperor." She secretly bit her tongue, although she wasn''t entirely lying because Conan was considerate to her.

    "But isn''t that strange?" Suzanne rubbed her chin, walking slowly beside Aries. "He sounds really close to Lady Danie."

    "That''s right." Veronika, who was walking beside Sybil, tilted her head forward to look at Aries over Sybil. "He said something like, he told you multiple times to take care."

    "Oh, right!" Sybil intoned, looking back at Aries.

    "Ahhбн that is because Sir Conan reminded me multiple times on the first day of the selection for the empire''s sake." Aries lied again, secretly fidgeting with her fingers. "As I''ve said, my brother was worried about my participation in the selection. Anything can happen within the pce grounds, so to prevent any internal conflict from arising, he told me to take care."

    "Ohhбн that makes sense." Suzanne and Veronika nodded in understanding, knowing Aries was that precious to the Marquess Vandran. After all, Dexter was very influential in the empire and was also famous in othernds. Telling Aries to take care of herself and stay alert at all times was better since she was Dexter''s bottom line.

    "Heheбн apologies, mydy. I thought you have some sort of special rtionship with Duke Hakebourne." Sybil giggled yfully, hooking an arm around Aries. "He is charming. It wouldn''t be a surprise if he ends up sending your house a marriage proposal."

    ''Oh, my lord! Please have mercy on me!'' Aries secretly looked around nervously, knowing what Sybil said just now could lead to Conan''s execution! If Conan got in trouble because of this harmless teasing, he would surely forget his friendship with Aries and drag her down with him.

    Suzanne''s eyes lit up, gazing back at Aries as if an idea suddenly crossed her head. "That''s not bad. I heard the emperor''s aide hadn''t gotten married. I know Danie is a candidate for the empress, but it was obvious the duke was ratherfortable with you."

    "I don''t want to tease you, but my first impression of him was that he was a very intimidating man," Veronika chimed in while Sybil and Suzanne nodded in agreement. "Even earlier, he carried an air of a royal, but in front of Lady Danie, he was like an infatuated man."

    "..." Aries walked slowly, lowering her eyes, horrified at where this discussion was leading. Wherever this would go, she felt like having a glimpse of the guillotine.<sub> </sub>

    [ Little did they know, the man, and also the subject of this discussion, kept sneezing. Conan kept shivering, telling himself someone was badmouthing him, only to me the innocent Isaiah for it. ]

    "Looking at the two of you from a distance, I can see the chemistry," Suzanne chuckled, interested to see more of Aries and Conan''s interaction. "I won''t be surprised if Duke Hakebourne sends a marriage proposal for Lady Danie, lest she wasn''t chosen to be the empress."

    "From a political point of view, a marriage between the House Hakebourne and the House Vandran isn''t so bad. After all, the House Hakebourne had always supported the royal family for generations while the House Vandran was leading the aristocrats. Tying both families in a marriage will surely cease His Majesty''s worries," Veronika concluded solemnly, nodding, convinced at this route.

    ''Oh, godбн'' Aries''s mouth fell open, looking back at them in horror. ''Please don''t make it sound like Sir Conan and I are in love with each other! We both want to live!''

    "Danie, don''t get us wrong. It''s not like we''re saying this because we don''t want you to be an empress. However, we are so fond of you ?that we wish for you to live a good life with the man you love. After all, you went through a lot during your betrothal with that mad tyrant in the Maganti Empire," exined Suzanne lest Aries would misinterpret their intention.

    "That is right." Veronika nodded, although her opinion about this was quite different.

    Veronika had heard a lot of stories regarding the emperor of the Haimirich Empire. People said the tyrant in this empire was sick in the head, and whoever his empress would surely live a lonely life. The reason Veronika wasn''t aiming to catch the emperor''s eyes or heart but to get in his good graces to swear allegiance with the Chivisea Dynasty.

    "Lady Danie," Sybil called, holding Aries''s'' hand gently. She stopped and faced Aries squarely, smiling subtly at her. "We heard the Emperor of the Haimirich Empire could be very extreme. We all have our reasons to be in here, but youбн we are aware you were forced to take part in this selection. If you need us, remember we''re always here to support you. I really like Lady Danie, and I don''t want her to live a lonely life with the emperor."

    "..."

    ''You... are all getting this wrong.'' Aries was about to weep internally when she caught a figure approaching them from ahead. She snapped her eyes and looked ahead, only for her face to contort, seeing Roman, in his royal knight suit, along with two other knights, walking in their direction.

    "Huh?" Suzanne furrowed her brows, narrowing her brows. "Isn''t that the knight who helped us yesterday?"

    "Ohбн" Veronika rocked her head, sizing up Roman from head to toe. "But wasn''t he a knight in the Marquess'' knighthood brigade?"

    "That''s strangeбн why is he wearing a royal knight suit?" Sybil wondered, and then the three of them gazed at Aries, only to see thetter look ahead nkly.

    ''Thisбн'' Aries whispered in her head. ''... is just a coincidence, right?''

 Chapter 593 Failing To Notice The Signs

    "Greetings Your Highnesses, my Lady." Roman greeted along with the two other knights.

    Suzanne, Sybil, Veronika, and Aries smiled at the knights, nodding as a gesture in receiving their greetings. Seeing the candidate''s reaction, Roman and the knights stood on the side to make way for them.

    "We should goбн" Aries proposed and took a step to lead them, but s, stopped when Roman suddenly spoke.

    "Are you alright now, mydy?" he asked, ignoring the eyes of the other three candidates, and fixing his eyes on Aries. Thetter looked back at him a littleter, her neck twisting like rusting metal.

    ''That is out of characterбн'' Aries thought, forcing a smile on her face. ''I truly nned on helping him make up with Violet, but now that is out of my list of priorities.''

    p "I''m fine now, Sir Knight. Thank you for your help yesterday." Aries stayed meek, keeping her smile. "My family will surely reward you for it."</anda>

    "I''m simply following the orders." Roman tilted his head down.

    "Very wellбн" Aries let out a deep exhale and faced thedies. "Shall we?"

    "Yes," answered Sybil, following Aries''s lead while Suzanne didn''t answer and simply followed. Meanwhile, Veronika stayed quiet and idled in front of Roman.

    ''Auburn hair and eyes that had the color of ashбн'' Veronika studied Roman, furrowing her brows as this knight''s features resembled those royalties in the Maganti Empire.

    Yesterday, Veronika didn''t have the leisure to study the people as she was too surprised at the situation. But now that she was meeting Roman for the second time, she couldn''t help but remember the royals in the Maganti Empire.

    ''That''s strangeбн'' Veronika thought, watching Roman look back at her with intrigue in his eyes. ''... there weren''t many royalties who were left alive after the uprising. And one of the key figures in the revolt''s sess was the leader of the Valiente group, Roman Imperial.''

    Veronika never met this infamous prince who connived with the rebels because he couldn''t stomach his family''s cruel methods. However, only the seventh prince, Roman Imperial, retired after the downfall of the crown prince.

    ''But I heard that the seventh prince had a huge scar across his face. That''s why he always wears full-body armor.''

    "Is there something you need, Your Highness?" asked Roman after the prolonged silence, snapping Veronika back from her trance.

    "Uhбн" Veronika smiled. "No, there''s none. It was just that your features remind me of this particr n that I heard about. They also had auburn hair and eyes that had the same color as the moonlight. It''s a beautifulbination."

    Roman lowered his eyes and tilted his head down. "Then, if you do not have anything you need, I''ll be on my way."

    "Mhm. The imperial knights are always busy, so I do not want to waste your time." Veronika nodded, turning on her heel to follow the three, only to see them stop and look back at her. The side of her lips stretched even broader, sauntering away from the knights.

    Meanwhile, Roman nced at Veronika''s back and a glint flickered across his eyes. He didn''t look at her for long, signaling the other knights to leave.

    "Let''s go," ordered Roman, leading the knights as they walked in the direction the candidates came from. "Our task waspleted. We had shown our faces in front of them."

    <strong>*****</strong>

    Aries was in distress for almost the first hour after meeting Conan and Roman. After all, questions from Sybil and Suzanne and even from Veronika were inevitable. They recognized Roman because the man in question took a lot of attention during the incident yesterday.

    Fortunately, Aries was able toe up with a convincing lie.<sub> </sub>

    Since the three were already aware of Aries being familiar with Conan, Aries used Conan''s name to patch this hole in her lies. By saying Roman was acting under Conan''s orders and not Abel, the princesses were able to make a conclusion in their heads.

    After all, Conan was the emperor''s trusted aide. Mobilizing the royal knights who should only receive direct orders from the emperor wasn''t impossible.

    With that, thedies didn''t probe anymore and got on with their day, enjoying a cup of tea in the west garden. They still strolled afterward, but this time, they weren''t any other people who approached them aside from the servants and there were no flying arrows.

    "The Imperial Pce is not only a ce for luxury, but a day isn''t enough to explore it," said Sybil sluggishly as they entered the Hyacinth Pce''s premises. "My feet hurtбн a little."

    Aries gazed at Sybil and smiled. "Then shall I help you get into your room?"

    "Lady Danie, our chambers are in the same area."

    "Then that''s better, isn''t it?" Aries''s smile stretched, showing Sybil didn''t have to worry about Aries''s well-being.

    "Wellбн" Sybil nced at Suzanne. "Your Highness, are you also going to stay in my chambers?"

    "What?" Aries furrowed her brows, only to hear Veronika exin.

    "Lady Danie, you''ve been very busy since the selection. So we hadn''t gotten a chance to invite you to our gatherings every night."

    "Gathering?"

    "It''s basically consoling ourselves since we cannot sleep in a foreign ce," Suzanne exined in a knowing tone.

    "It''s not that I can''t, but you two always drag me or crash into my room." Veronika chimed.

    "What are you talking about?" asked Aries, despite having this particr conclusion in her head.

    "We take turns in where to sleep." This time, Sybil was the one who answered. "One night, we sleep in my room. And then, there were other nights we slept in Princess Suzanne''s chamber or in Princess Veronika''s room."

    "Now that I think about it, we haven''t seen yours, Lady Danie," she added innocently, treading carefully as they waltzed through the hallway. "Should we stay in your chambers for tea, Lady Danie?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Sybil, be mindful of your actions and words," Suzanne reminded, but then looked at Aries with anticipation. Not just her, but also Veronika''s and Sybil''s eyes twinkled, waiting for Aries''s answer.

    "Ahhбн" Aries smiled awkwardly, checking what time it was, and realized it was too early. For the past two weeks, Abel woulde into her room around the same time. Hence, after gravitating about it thoroughly, Aries smiled at them.

    "If you do not mind, I would like to invite you for tea and offer my chambers to rest before we resign to bed."

    "Well, yes, of course! We''d be delighted and honored," Suzanne replied, acting as the spokesperson of the other two. "I''m curious what your chambers look like."

 Chapter 594 The Unexpected Plus One

    Thedies were excited, knowing their chambers were prepared ording to thedies'' preferences. It was surprising, but this gesture the Haimirich Empire showed the candidates were nice. The reason they were curious about what sort of preferences Aries had; her chambers would give hints to them by the color, the furniture, and the overall interior and ambiance.

    Aries stopped in front of her chambers, looking back at them. She was nervous but told herself not to since Abel would be very busy in his chancery.

    "I hadn''t had guests for quite some time now, so I''ll apologize in advance if I make a mistake," she expressed, hand on the doorknob.

    "Lady Danie, we already call each other without honorifics. Why would you think we will mind if you rxed?" Suzanne chortled, ncing at Sybil.

    "That''s right. We''re already honored to be invited to your chambers for tea," said Sybil sweetly. "We should be the ones who should apologize in advance if we ever make a mistake."

    "We are onlying for a tea, mydy. Please, put your heart at ease," Veronika added, shing Aries an understanding smile.

    ''I hadn''t treated them anything. Moreover, time with friends isn''t a bad idea, right?'' Aries mentally nodded, convincing herself nothing would go wrong.

    The three princesses had told her they had a slumber party at least six times in the past two weeks, and thus, it was only natural that it was now Aries''s turn to invite them to her chambers. It was not like they would sleep here.

    Aries pushed the door ever so slowly, and somehow, it creaked louder than usual. She held her breath for some reason, her heart thudding against her chest. She peeked inside discreetly, heaving a sigh of relief upon seeing no sign of anyone inside.

    ''That''s right. He won''t be here.'' Aries smiled back at thedies as she opened the door wide. "Please,e in."

    Thedies looked at each other with bright smiles on their faces before setting their gazes back at Aries.

    "After you," said Aries, motioning her hand.

    "Thank you, Lady Danie," expressed the three politely, stepping foot inside Aries''s chambers.

    As they did, Aries stared at their backs and sighed once more. A subtle smile turned up on her lips, checking outside to see if someone was there.

    ''Marse is probably with Sunny again,'' she thought, thinking that Marse, Aries''sdy-in-waiting, wasn''t really doing her job as ady-in-waiting. Although she would stille to teach Aries witchcraft.

    Aries slowly closed the door and faced thedies. They were already standing in the middle, looking around. Her brows furrowed, seeing that the three were staring in the same direction.

    "Please, have a seat." Aries''s voice pierced the thickening silence as she marched towards them. Her steps faltered, catching the horror in the corner of Veronika''s eyes. Aries followed where they were staring, only for her pupils to slowly dte and her breathing to suspend.

    There, standing in front of the bookshelf, was Abel. He was holding an open book with one hand, staring back at them with a nk expression.

    ''Whyбн is he here?'' Aries''s heart sank, mouth falling open.

    When Abel closed the book, the heavy sound it made snapped thedies back to their senses.<sub> </sub>

    "Gre бк Greetings to the only shining sun of the empire," they curtsied clumsily, almost stuttering from the shock.

    Abel simply nced at them with disinterest before fixing his gaze on Aries. The second their eyes met, Aries flinched and hurriedly curtsied.

    "Greetings to the only shining sun of the empire," Aries greeted nervously. "I didn''t know His Majesty was in this humble ce."

    "Of courseбн how would you? It''s not the usual time," came out a low baritone voice, putting back the book on the shelf ever so slowly. "Stand properly."

    Still curtsying, Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika looked at each other, taking it as an order for the four of them. Despite the deep confusion and fear in their eyes, they straightened their backs. As soon as they did, all they saw was the emperor marching toward them.

    The three gulped, which sounded unnaturally loud in their ears. Their heart and breath hitched when Abel stood in front of them бк no, in front of Aries. Meanwhile, thetter flinched under his dark and fiery gaze.

    "Your Majestyбн?" she called awkwardly, raising her brows, noticing the odd gaze from thedies. "May I know why you are in here so I know how to assist Your Majesty?"

    "This ceбн this empire and everything in it is mine. Do I need a reason to go to ces?" he cocked his head to the side, eyes drooping dangerously.

    "Well, of course, you do not haveбн"

    "But since you asked, I do think I might need your help." Abel smiled, but it didn''t reach his eyes. He raised his hand, causing her to shrink.

    He paused. "Are you scared of me?"

    "His Majesty is wise and untouchable, leading this empire to greater heights. Even so, I would be lying to say your noble presence does not intimidate this humble subject." Aries lowered her eyes. She wasn''t putting up a show. He truly intimidated her, sensing the sensitive state he was in.

    "Very well saidбн" Abel moved his hand and caressed her jaw, lifting her chin up to see her eyes. "Will you help me?"

    Aries gulped. "Yesбн if it was within my capacity, I would like to help Your Majesty with anything."

    Veronika, Suzanne, and Sybil looked at Aries nervously, scared for her. They didn''t know how and why the emperor was in Aries''s chambers, but based on their exchange of words, it seemed Abel intruded here unannounced. Whatever his reasons were, the three could only think it had something to do with theplicated rtionship between the emperor and the House of Vandran.

    Just what would happen to Aries if she returned to her chambers all alone?! The three could only imagine the worst!

    "Invite me for a tea," Abel proposed, retrieving his hand to hold behind him. "If you do not mind, I''d like to join you."

    Aries forced a smile and secretly nced at them, only to see the helplessness and worry in their eyes.

    "It''ll be my honor, Your Majesty." Aries looked back at him with a smile, knowing she couldn''t refuse him.

 Chapter 595 Mini Tea Party

    Since Abel asked to be invited to join them for tea, they had no choice but to endure his presence. Sitting around the tea table, Veronika darted her eyes between the two people sitting across from her. Just like Veronika, Suzanne pursed her lips into a thin line. Meanwhile, Sybil cast the other princesses a quick look.

    The three had upied solo chairs while the host of this mini tea party was sitting on the same divan that the emperor was sitting on. Although there was an arm''s length distance between Aries and Abel, it still felt a little strange how the emperor chose to sit with her.

    "Does my presence bother you, princesses?" his cool voice broke the prolonging and thickening silence in the room.

    "Of course not, Your Majesty?" Aries shed him a meek smile. "We are honored to be graced by your presence."

    "Then why are you letting the tea run cold?"

    "We are waiting for His Majesty to drink his." She motioned her hand towards the coffee table in front of them, eyes fixed on him, her subtle smile cemented on her face. "Please, Your Majesty. If you do not mind, this humble subject would like to offer you a cup of tea."

    "Ohбн" Abel rocked his head, wondering if this was a custom in the nobility. He didn''t actually conform to etiquette since he rarely had tea with anyone because the teas that were usually served to him were meant to kill him.

    "I see. So, that''s why," he humored, bending over to pick up the teacup.

    When Abel leaned back, he sniffed the aroma, lingering in the steam that was ascending softly from the teacup. His brow arched at his first sniff and his eyes fell on Aries.

    Aries offered a subtle smile, gesturing for him to have a drink. Since she was the host of this mini tea party, Aries also exhibited her talent for brewing tea, which she served to them.

    "I wonderбн" his eyelids drooped as he guided the mouth of the teacup to his lips, eyes fixed on her. "... what''s in your mind?"

    Abel sipped the tea and its sweet yet minty taste filled his mouth. He felt a slight line travel down his throat, but his lips curled up in satisfaction.

    "What a refreshing tea," he mused, casting Aries a satisfied look as he ced the teacup back on the table. "I never had such a strong vor in my life."

    "I''ll take that as apliment." Aries let out a weak chuckle and then faced thedies. "Please, Your Highnesses. I hope you would love the tea I had brewed for everyone."

    Suzanne and Sybil looked at each other and then shed Aries a polite smile. "We are honored, Lady Danie." And then picked up their teacups to their lips.

    "If His Majesty gave out such great feedback, I''d expect it to be phenomenal." Veronika humored as she slowly picked up the teacup and then guided it to her lips.

    Their eyes lit up, almost making a sound at the vor that burst into their mouths. The tea was refreshing with a bit of this oddly strong vor, but also had a touch of sweetness that blended well with the taste. The satisfied smile was enough for Aries to know it was to their liking.<sub> </sub>

    "This is the first time Lady Danie brewed us tea. Hence, I was unaware thedy was great at making teas," Veronika praised, acting ording to etiquette in the presence of the emperor. If Abel wasn''t here, this mini tea party would be less stiff and have a more carefree atmosphere full of giggles and teasing.

    "I never had such a great tea, even back in Topia," Suzanne chimed in with a smile as she ced the teacup back on the table.

    "Lady Danie, I would''ve rmended you to open sses for making tea." Sybil humored, trying her best to ignore Abel''s intimidating presence so the air wouldn''t be so awkward. "I would personally line up to get a spot in your ss."

    Aries chuckled, covering her lips with the back of her hand. "Your Highnesses are so generous with their words. I am ttered."

    "We are simply speaking the truth, Lady Aries," said Suzanne, making Sybil nod.

    "That''s right. It was a praise well deservedбн" Veronika trailed off as her vision suddenly shook. She narrowed her eyes, holding on to the armrest to stop her body from swaying.

    "Princess Veronika, are you alright?" asked Aries the moment she noticed Veronika''s paleplexion.

    "Ahбн of courбн se." Veronika mustered every bit of her strength to raise her eyes at Aries, but her vision was already blurred. She felt her strength slip away from her grip, leaning back ever so slowly.

    "Your highness," Aries called once again, snapping her eyes at Suzanne and Sybil, only to see them slowly close their eyes until they were unconscious.

    The worry in Aries''s eyes gradually faded, darting her gaze between the three, who were now sleeping in their seats. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, picking up a cup of tea to enjoy in the momentary silence.

    "I hope that made you happy," she remarked calmly after the faint click of the bottom of the teacup upon contact with the saucer caressed her ears.

    "Was that supposed to make me happy? Well, I do not know, but it sure surprised me," Abel smirked, leaning his back against the armrest with his body facing her. "It is amazing how you never failed to surprise me, darling. But what is even more amusing is that I''m perplexed. Did you do this just to keep me a secret?"

    "You''re angry." Aries didn''t beat around the bush.

    "I was when I came here." He nodded as he folded his arms under his chest. "But then, when I saw you, my anger disappeared. However, your answer to my previous inquiry might bring that anger back."

    "Did you knock thesedies out for the sole reason you do not want your friends to know we are married?" Abel narrowed his eyes as he raised his chin.

    Aries kept her sharp countenance as she replied with an honest, "yes."

 Chapter 596 The Scent Of Your Blood Rips Through My Soul

    "I see." Abel''s smile didn''t reach his eyes. "Will you not enlighten me, darling? I do not wish to argue due to misunderstandings. I thought they were your friends. At this point, you must''ve known they do not wish to marry me, the emperor. So, why would you poison them when knowing our rtionship wouldn''t be a problem for them? Don''t you have any conscience lying to your friends anymore, darling? Or had your mind changed about us?"

    "Hah. How insulting." Aries let out a dryugh. "I am fond of them and they are wonderfuldies, fitting to be candidates to be an empress of this empire. I feel bad бк terrible each time I feed them lies. However, liking them doesn''t necessarily mean I fully trust them, Abel. They were still candidates and we''re still rivals. Anything can happen in the imperial pce and I''m not so strong that I can be just as rxed as you."

    "Oh?" his lips curled into a satisfied smirk.

    Aries fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly. "Now, did that quench your anger?"

    "It sure did."

    "Will you quench mine?" she returned, causing him to arch a brow.

    "You''re angry?"

    "More like disappointed," she rified, letting out a faint breath before she continued, "was it wrong to save a helpless child?"

    "No."

    "No?"

    "No."

    "Then why did you purposely give me trouble, sending your people in my way, forcing me to lie over and over to thesedies?" her eyes sharpened as thest trace of positivity on her face disappeared. "Are you telling me manipting my situation was done out of fun? And not because I saved that poor child from getting run over by that carriage?"

    "Saving a helpless and neglected child was not wrong, darling. What is wrong is you risk your life to do it," he argued calmly, finding zero faults in his argument.

    Ariesughed. "It is not the action, but who did it?"

    "Exactly."

    "Hahбн I am lost for words."

    "Aries Grimsbanne." His eyes glinted menacingly as his countenance turned cold. "I do not care if you poison everyone in this ce and kill them, nor do I care if you want to be a saintess who never sinned. You can do whatever you want and be whoever you want to be. I''ll support it with all my heart."

    "However, not at the cost of your life, darling." Abel bent over, hands on the space between them. "You could''ve saved that child and exchanged it with yours if not for the people in your shadow. Do you have any idea how insulting it is on my part that I do my best to protect you whilst giving you the liberty to still have control over your life, only for you to jump in the middle of the street and risk losing your life to save a child you didn''t know?"

    "Do I have to know someone before I risk my life?"

    "No. Even if you know them, even if it''s me, do not risk your life and lose it."

    Aries frowned as the fire in her eyes zed, getting angrier the more he spew his arguments. Of course, she could understand his words. However, she couldn''tprehend them.<sub> </sub>

    "Even if it''s you?" A dryugh slipped past her lips, drawing away. Her eyes sheltered disbelief and miff. "Am I that unreliable, Abel? Or was everything I had been doing meant nothing to you? Did you treat them as my hobbies to keep myself busy?"

    "I don''t mean it that way, darling."

    "No." She shook her head. "One way or another, that is what you meant. That''s how I see it."

    Abel pushed himself away while keeping his eyes on her, only to move closer. He took her hand and flipped it to see her palm. His jaw tightened at the sight of her untreated wound. She didn''t even bandage it to not catch anyone''s attention; even if she didn''t say it herself, it was obvious.

    "The scent of your bloodбн and even just the faint scent of your fleshбн" He raised his head to meet her eyes, gripping her wrist with control. "... rips through my soul, Aries. I can''t even imagine if you die before me."

    "I am a human, Abel. Death, for me, is inevitable."

    "And that drives me crazy." His eyes shone as his canines revealed themselves. "There is no honor in death, my love. How many times do I have to repeat it?"

    "I''d rather live my life helping the people I want to help and ignoring the problems I do not want to be a part of." Anger and displeasure pooled in her eyes. "Why not just lock me in, Abel? In that case, all I can do is spread my legs whenever youe."

    "Ariesбн" His grip around her wrist tightened. "You are fully aware no one can anger me just as much as you do and no one can drive me insane, just like you. And yet, you will purposely speak absurdity, touching the twisted part of my brain no one ever dared. Do not test me. I might mistake that as a wish, darling. There''s a reason ?people say be careful what you wish for."

    "I mean it if I say I didn''t mean to be mean, but I can be a prick if you tempt me," he continued, eyes fiery. "Call me an asshole, be my guest."

    "Asshole," she breathed out, clicking her tongue in irritation.

    Silence descended on their shoulders, but they kept their piercing gaze on each other. Aries ground her teeth and snatched her wrist from him, snorting as she massaged her wrist while moving it in a circr motion.

    "You should leave," she remarked. "Let''s discuss this again once you and I are calm."

    Another minute had passed after her remarks, but Abel didn''t move a muscle. Aries let out a sharp breath and snapped her eyes. At the same time, the door opened on its own.

    "Should I walk you out?" she inquired, making Abel arch a brow as he nced at the open door.

    Abel set his eyes back to her and smirked. "I''m angry, but I can''t even think of breaking your pinky." He slowly rose to his feet and gazed down at her.

    "But you are correct. I shouldn''t just careбн it''s always been easier that way."

    With that being said, Abel sauntered off. He stopped when he was by the door and looked back as a habit, only to see her looking away. It was an unusual sight to behold since Abel would usually look back, and each time, Aries would still keep staring at his back with a warm smile on her face.

    "How upsetting," he whispered before he resumed his steps.

 Chapter 597 Communication Wasnt Always The Answer

    When Abel left, a small unit of knights came into Aries''s room to carry the princesses back to their rooms. Even after the knights worked on it and the servants cleaned up the coffee table, Aries remained seated on the settee.

    "Mydy?" Gertrude called to snap Aries back to the currentpse. "It''s already time for dinner."

    "I''m not hungry."

    Gertrude pursed her lips into a thin line, looking at Aries worriedly. Aries had been on that same spot for hours now and the sun was about to set already.

    "Should I run you a bath, mydy?" she asked, not forcing Aries to eat, knowing she couldn''t force her.

    "No, Gertrude." Aries fluttered her eyshes, staring at the empty spot of the divan where Abel sat on previously. "I''ll call for you when I want to. I just want to rest for now."

    "Alright."

    Gertrude didn''t probe like usual and walked towards the stand to light up a candle. However, just as she held the match, she stopped.

    "Mydy?" she looked back at Aries with furrowed brows.

    "Leave it," Aries muttered. "Just leave."

    "But mydyбн"

    "I want to be alone, Gertrude." Aries snapped her eyes in Gertrude''s direction. "Just leave it."

    Gertrude frowned and sighed. "Then I''ll, at least, prepare the firece."

    "No."

    "Mydy, the night can be chilly."

    "It''s fine, Gertrude." A subtle smile turned up on Aries''s face. "Don''t worry about it. Don''t worry about me. I''m simply upset, but I''ll be fine by tomorrow."

    "Mydyбн" Gertrude bit her tongue and sighed once more. She held her hand in her front, bowing deeply. "If you ever need me, I''ll be on standby."

    When Gertrude straightened her back, her eyes softened in worry seeing that Aries had looked away. Every candidate could only bring one servant and a knight that wouldn''t need to go through the pce''s approval. Hence, Gertrude and Climaco had been assisting Aries ever since she stepped foot in the imperial pce.

    Therefore, she knew that the only reason Aries was this upset was because of the emperor. No one could upset Aries бк not the candidates or any disparaging rumors about her бк aside from the emperor. Gertrude couldn''t me them, though.

    "Mydy, I apologize if I may have stepped out of my bounds by saying this," Gertrude remarked before she leave. "Marriage isn''t all about rainbows and butterflies. There were times you won''t see eye to eye, but if youmunicate, I''m certain everything will be fine."<sub> </sub>

    Aries nced at Gertrude and smiled subtly. "No, Gertrude." She then slowly peeled her eyes away from her to the window.

    "Communication is not the key to a longsting rtionship," she continued, letting out a faint sigh. "Comprehension is. We canmunicate all we want but won''t understand each other, and right now, that''s the problem."

    Gertrude lowered her eyes. "Even so, everything will be fine if both parties are willing. I''ll be on my way, mydy."

    With that being said, Gertrude walked away as silently as possible. When the door clicked as it closed, Aries breathed out deeply.

    "We''re always willing, Gertrudeбн" Aries whispered, keeping her eyes outside as the room grew darker and silent. "... but not now when the emotions are high and cloud our judgments."

    Perhaps it was her heart or just the way she wanted to live right now that she didn''t understand Abel. Of course, she knew he was afraid of losing her. Abel was older than her ancestor and someone who wouldn''t die.

    Death had given him an exception on his list. Thus, he was afraid to be left alone. At least, losing her wasn''t in his ns right now or in the next several decades.

    "Time is the only thing he hasбн" her quiet voice in this dark room sounded louder than usual. "... I do not have that much."

    In other words, Abel could be selfish and only think of his own because he had time. He had many days to correct his mistakes and use mercy. But Aries only had one and because she was a witch, turning her into a vampire wasn''t an option.

    If the process of turning wasn''tplicated for a witch, he would''ve convinced her long ago. If that happened, they didn''t have such an argument. But the situation was different.

    Turning her right now could lead to her quick death. A death of no return. They couldn''t risk that from happening. The reason Abel was extra careful, knowing turning Aries into a vampire, was a risk he wasn''t confident to take right now.

    It was not like they were in a hurry.

    Even so, Aries was conflicted. She had mentioned she understood Abel, and that wasn''t a lie. But should she stop caring just because life was full of twists and turns and uncertainties? Should she feel sorry for not feeling sorry because she didn''t regret helping a child at the risk of her life?

    Amid the long silence in the room, the faint creak from a direction caressed Aries''s ears. Even without seeing in this darkness, Aries knew that sound came from the direction of the shelf where the secret passage was.

    "Should Iбн live in fear just because I can die?" Aries inquired at the person who came in, keeping her eyes on the window where the only light source wasing from. "Was it called living when every step, you have to be cautious of your surrounding?"

    "When I discovered Abel was immortal, I was always worried at the back of my head. Back then, I didn''t know about the Turned vampires, but there''s this thought that immediately came into my head." Aries slowly shifted her eyes towards the other end of the dark room. Despite the darkness reigning in the room, she knew exactly what was in that part of the room.

    She blinked, and the mes in the firece appeared out of nowhere. The orange me with a tint of red danced, engulfing the woods and bringing enough light into the room for her to see.

    "Do you know what that thought was, Master?" Aries shifted her eyes to the figure sitting across from her. Marse was sittingfortably with her leg resting over the other and her arms over the armrest.

 Chapter 598 No One To Grow Old With

    ? "Do you know what that thought was, Master?"

    "Beats me." Marse shrugged.

    "Back then, I thoughtбн is it right to love him, knowing one day I will have to leave this world and leave him?" Aries smiled weakly, lowering her eyes until her gazended on the table between them. "Or should I cut ties with him while our rtionship isn''t that deep just yet?"

    "I guessed you realized your heart and feelings aren''t as shallow as you thought they were since you''re here," Marse guessed in amusement. "You will not learn witchcraft if you don''t love him."

    "But he doesn''t see it that way, apparently." Ariesughed dryly. "For him, I am someone he needs to protect, and not someone he should rely on."

    Aries then raised her gaze at Marse once again. "It seems no matter what I''d do, he will never trust me. Strength and intellect will not matter to him. He''ll keep me in a cage if that is what it takes to stop me. Am I wrong?"

    Marse sized Aries up silently, propping her jaw against her knuckles.

    "You said it yourself. Loveбн is not a feeling, but a choice," she repeated the words Aries spewed in the past that left an impression on Marse. "I wonder if you''re starting to question that choice."

    "I''m upset, sister, but that doesn''t mean I had a changed of heart."

    "I can''t say Ipletely understand your heart, dearest sister." Marse pushed herself up, sauntering towards the firece, and stopped in front of it. "To tell you the truth, I don''t. I think you are being stubborn."

    Aries stared at Marse''s back from the divan. "That is because you are not in my shoes."

    "Indeed." Marse rocked her head in agreement. "I was not in your shoes and I never walked around wearing them. But I can understand your husband."

    Her eyes dropped, watching the mes dance in the hearth. "Just like you said, he is immortal. He can''t die. Your husband and I have a different predicament, but at the same time, that predicament is almost the same. Love is simple, and ours definitely falls on thetter in the two options I mentioned бк it is extreme."

    "I would''ve said being alone and going wild every once in a while when things get boring is better. How I wish I can say that with conviction, but I can''t. Why? Because Loveбн even if it can be extremely painful, is worth every blood and tear," she continued solemnly, ignoring the figure standing beside her. "It might sound that I am defending him and representing him; I don''t sympathize with him. What I''m saying is a personal opinion."

    "It is not that he doesn''t trust your capabilities or your determination, Ram. He''s scared бк terrified. But this fright isn''t from theck of confidence but from the obvious reasons," Marse shot Aries a sidelong nce. "Abel knows how much you love him and his importance in your life; he knows, he sees, and he feels it, but all he can do is watch you embrace the witch in you."<sub> </sub>

    "He knows you''d risk your life for him if you must. He knows you''d sacrifice a limb for him and use your body to shield him. That incident yesterday had just reminded him of what you can do and how far you''d go for him," she added, shrugging slightly.

    "What''s so wrong with that?" Aries inquired under her breath, still unable to grasp her point. "Abel would do everything for me. Why is it fine if he does it, but it''s not if it''s me?"

    "Because what is so good about him you''d exchange your life with his?" Marse''s response was quick, causing Aries''s breath to hitch. Marse nodded slightly, peeling her eyes from her back to the mes. "In his sinful eyes, sphemous heart, and the depths of his wretched soul, you are the best thing that had happened to him. What do you think he would feel if you died under his watch?"

    "Abel is the most powerful Grimsbanne there is. At this point, he is untouchable. You could imagine all the evilness he had done and how far his power could stretch. Yet, he only cares for one thing бк for one person, which is you." Marse paused as her jaw tightened, almost as if she was speaking what Abel couldn''t say. She faced Aries squarely this time, waiting for thetter to look back at her before she continued.

    "Ram, have you ever wondered what it feels like to stand on the peak, yet, unable to do anything to prevent death from taking you away from him?" she inquired, tilting her head slightly to the side. "And yet, you woulde knocking on death''s door for what? For honor? To make you feel good?"

    Ariesughed weakly as she corrected. "For him."

    "Huhбн?" Marse pressed her lips and rocked her head, trying to make sense of what Aries meant by that.

    "Who said I care for honor and I''m trying to make myself feel good by helping others?" Aries whispered bitterly, allowing the crackle of woods fills the momentary silence. "There''s no guarantee that he can turn me into a vampire, and even if I can prolong my life as a witch, I''d still die, eventually."

    Her eyes softened as she clenched her hand. "That''s why I''m worried and scared, not because I''m afraid of death. But because I was afraid how he woulde to terms with grief or if he would evere to terms with it."

    "He won''t. I couldn''t, so he definitely can''t."

    "I figured." Aries nodded, smiling bitterly. "That''s whyбн instead of wallowing in fear and worry, I want to spread the little kindness and love that is left in me to others. In that case, once it''s my time to bid this world farewell, others will return my kindness and love to him."

    "Abel had been ostracized and persecuted because he was different. It might sound foolish, but if I influenced even just a few people, they might understand my heart and ept him just the way he was, and be there for him once I''m gone sinceбн" Aries''s voice broke, gulping to clear the tension in her throat. "... he might not grow old with me."

    Marse''s eyes softened before looking away from Aries. "Foolish, indeed, however, admirable. Humansбн and their foolish hearts are what kill us from the inside."

 Chapter 599 Im In Tears

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    "Am I that unreliable, Abel? Or was everything I had been doing meant nothing to you? Did you treat them as my hobbies to keep myself busy?"

    "I am a human, Abel. Death, for me, is inevitable."

    "I''d rather live my life helping the people I want to help and ignoring the problems I do not want to be a part of."

    "You should leave."

    Abel hissed through his gritted teeth as he closed his eyes in frustration, remembering the look in Aries''s eyes while arguing with him. They had argued a couple of times before, but this was the first time they were this upset.

    "How in the worldбн did things turn around?" he wondered, opening his eyes, only to see a dirty concrete wall. "I was the one who was angry, but she got angrier and now I feel like I should apologize. Why would I apologize?"

    "Grandpa, I''m too young to give you proper advice."

    Abel turned to his left and his eyes fell on Sunny, squatting beside him, looking at him with a poker face.

    Sunny blinked. "Also, why did you drag me into this dungeon? Didn''t you say I won''t get tried anymore for attempting to rename the empire because I helped you?"

    "Ahбн because I need a second opinion lest this guy gives me a terrible one." Abel slowly set his eyes on his right, and Sunny followed his gaze.

    There, on the other side of the cell they were currently locked in, was a man. His wrists were bound by a special kind of chain attached to the wall. He had slightly long and disheveled hair, but its deep auburn color stood out. When the man weakly raised his head, Sunny caught a pair of bright silver eyes through the strands of hair falling in front of his face.

    "Who is this?" Sunny asked Abel.

    "He was a good friend of mine who helps me clear my head when I need it." Abel smiled, staring at the man in satisfaction. "It''s been a while, Joaquin. And good evening."

    Joaquin snorted, darting his eyes between Abel, who was slumped on the floor with his back against the wall. And then at the child squatting near Abel, facing Joaquin, looking at him curiously.

    "You see, when you cannot understand your wife, who would you turn to for help?" Abel snapped his eyes back at Sunny. Thetter pondered about it with a finger on her chin.

    "To the priest!"

    "No. To your wife''s ex-husband."

    "Ohhhбн" Sunny''s lips formed an o-shape, eyes on Joaquin. "This lowly vampire is my grandma''s former husband?"

    "Ye бк no." Abel frowned as if something urred to him. "He was herбн ymate. They used to y house before. I am the husband бк the one and only."

    Sunny bit her tongue to stop herself from speaking the unnecessary. Abel was obviously in denial.

    "Grandpa, you should''ve just asked my pretty Grandma Marse. She gives wonderful advice," she said.<sub> </sub>

    Abel forced a shortugh. "Like what? I should kill myself to sleep?"

    "But that''s better than asking grandmama''s former husband. They wouldn''t separate if he understood her."

    There was a moment of silence between Sunny and Abel as they looked at each other. The idea didn''t ur to Abel until Sunny mentioned it, making him realize they were simply wasting time in Joaquin''s sweet cell.

    "She''ll leave you."

    Abel quirked a brow when Joaquin''s voice pierced through the prolonged silence, shifting his eyes at him. Sunny also set her attention to Joaquin, raising her brows, blinking adorably.

    "Ariesбн is a woman full of greed. Do you think you are enough now? Hahбн she''ll keep asking for more until you have nothing left." Joaquin sneered, eyes swirling with mockery. "Nothing can satisfy that woman."

    "Did she eat everything in the food storage?" asked Sunny, curiosity apparent in her eyes, only for Joaquin to ignore her.

    "Our rtionship might be troubled from the beginning, but there were times we were good partners. I gave her everythingбн but she just went to another big fish."

    Abel blinked. "I would also go to the bigger fish to get satisfied. Why would I have to stay with the smaller fish when there''s this big fish who is not just better but the best?" the side of his lips curled up as his mind drifted to a different kind of ''fish.''

    "You are right, boy. We''vee to the wrong person." Abel cocked his head at Sunny. "This small fish will not understand the best. He''s way below my league."

    "Sometimes I enjoy talking to people and see how long it will take before their tongues fall off," Sunny remarked as she stood up while Abel dusted off his clothes.

    "Glutton, I can tell you it''s not that longбн people are just too fragile."

    "That''s right. Sometimes, their heads just fall off even when they''re doing nothing," agreed Sunny, grasping Abel''s hand as they leave the cell.

    Holding the cell open, Abel stopped and looked back at Joaquin. His lips curled up into a triumphant smirk.

    "You say she was never satisfied with youбн well, I heard the people in the Maganti had a very poor size and terrible performance. I can imagine the pain of all those girls faking it just to avoid bruising your egos." Abel winked and tugged Sunny''s hand mildly, leaving the cell wide open.

    "Let him rest for a moment," ordered Abel to the two knights outside the cell, holding leashes for the dogs they would unleash inside Joaquin''s cell.

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    "You are so cuteбн" Sunny petted the huge ck dog happily as they walked past them. She frowned as Abel dragged her with him, looking up at his back. "Grandpa, can I take them for a walk next time?"

    Abel nced down at her, treading slower. "Sure, boy."

    "Are you still sad?" she asked, changing the subject lest he changed his mind. Abel was the type who changes his mind the more they talk about it.

    "Sad?" Abelughed dryly. "I''m in tears."

 Chapter 600 Isaiahs Disappearance

    Conan was standing outside the castle, deep in thought, when he caught Abel and Sunny walking out of the castle. He immediately jogged his way to meet them, standing beside Abel while Sunny was on his right.

    "What is it now, Conan? Can''t you see I''m having a moment after arguing with my wife?" Abel resisted rolling his eyes. Thest thing he wanted right now was Conan nagging him with the most unnecessary things.

    "Handsome Uncle, my grandpa said I can take the dogs out for a walk tomorrow." Sunny grinned, eyes sparkling excitedly.

    Conan simply cast the sparkling little girl a cursory look and let out a long-suffering sigh.

    "Your Majesty, the squad returned with Morro. Apparently, they didn''t meet with the Grand Duke of Fleure."

    Abel stopped and quirked a brow, turning his head at Conan. "They didn''t meet with Isaiah?"

    Conan lowered his head, and another sigh slipped past his nose. Morro told them Isaiah was on his way back to the empire after the mission Abel gave him. That was several weeks ago; Isaiah should''ve arrived in the empire even before the selection began.

    "Hahбн I wonder if he was ambushed and died." Abel''s eyes fell on Sunny, knowing the ce Isaiah went was the kingdom where this little girl''s father was supposed to be. "What do you think, boy?"

    "I thinkбн he got tired of Handsome Uncle''s shenanigans and went soul searching."

    After hearing Sunny''s answer, Abel returned his attention to Conan. "You heard her."

    "Your Majesty." Conan frowned.

    Abel resumed his steps, still holding Sunny''s hand. He pondered about it for a moment and it didn''t take long for him to realize Sunny''s guess was impossible. Isaiah was never the type to disappear; he was actually the opposite. Even if Conan cry a river in front of Isaiah just so the man would leave them alone, he would feign deaf and blind.

    "That''s strange, indeed." He rocked his head, quirking a brow when Sunny tugged his hand.

    "My feet are starting to hurt, grandpa."

    A faint breath escaped his nostrils, squatting down to carry the little ''boy'' in his arms. He looked at Sunny and grinned.

    "You need a diet, boy. Your feet can''t carry all this weight anymore." Abel then turned to Conan. "Send a letter to Marquess Vandran. Tell him Isaiah is missing and I can''t send just anyone to look for my precious vassal."

    "How about Roman? He''ll be a great assistance to the marquess."

    "He''s in charge of my wife''s safety бк even though she doesn''t need it, she says."

    "Then, I''ll send Morro with him."

    "Sure. Whatever you think will be helpful for the search, Conan. If you are worried, you can go as well. Although I don''t think you''ll be able to stand it if Isaiah teased you about it." Abel waved dismissively as he sauntered back to the pce while Conan stopped following him.<sub> </sub>

    Conan lowered his head and then straightened his back, staring at Abel''s back. Sunny looked back at Conan and smiled, waving at him.

    "One after anotherбн the carriage incident isn''t concluded yet, but Roman confirmed it was a strange one." He let out a deep exhale, turning on his heel to look at a particr pce from afar. "How can I go and search for that guy when this pce is full of snakes lurking in the shadows?"

    That evening, Conan sent a letter to the House Vandran via Morro, which Dexter epted without a second hesitation. The Marquess might''ve been on the opposing party, but he would always be one of Abel''s people.

    Isaiah''s disappearance would be a problem since he was the one putting those night councils under control. Without him, the night council might stay a little tamed, but not for long. Not to mention, he still had legal duties as the Grand Duke of Fleure.

    Abel wouldn''t send this request to Dexter if this matter wasn''t important.

    <strong>[ THE VANDRAN RESIDENCE ]</strong>

    "My lord, should I assist you on your expedition?" Gustav stood on the side of the desk while Dexter was folding a paper. Thetter nced at the manor''s head butler and shook his head.

    "No need, Gustav." Dexter pushed himself up, holding the folded paper in between his fingers as he sauntered towards the open window. Sitting on the windowsill was Morro in his human form, looking down at the letter Dexter was handing him.

    "I want Sir Conan''s approval in the morning," said Dexter while Morro epted the letter quietly. "Also, I will need the details of Duke Darkmore''s route."

    "Alright," was all Morro said before jumping from the windowsill, only to disappear into the thick darkness.

    "There had been forces in the imperial pce that the emperor hadn''t been identified." Dexter slowly turned around to face Gustav. "I don''t think Sir Conan can handle everything all by himself. That''s why I requested you will enter the pce as Sunny''s butler. Look after Dani."

    "But his Majesty''s people already surrounded thedy, my lord."

    "I cannot becent." Dexter shook his head. "His Majesty, his sister and granddaughter, the knights, Sir Conan, and everyone on their side might be capable. However, it''s presumptuous to think whoever his enemies decide to show up isn''t as capable and cunning."

    Dexter leaned his side against the window, folding his arms under his chest. "I know His Majesty will prioritize her safety, but I want another pair of eyes that will solely focus on her."

    "My lord, you said you cannot becent. However, isn''t going alone to a ce where the grand duke disappeared all alone, calledcency?"

    "I''m with Morro, and if things are beyond my control, I can always retreat." Dexter unfolded his arms and walked towards Gustav, nting a hand on thetter''s shoulder. "I can fight freely if I know my sister is safe. For as long as she is safe, I wille back to her no matter what."

    Gustav frowned slightly, lowering his head to hide his displeasure. There was something in this mission that made his heart restless, but since Dexter''s mind wouldn''t change, Gustav didn''t argue.

    "Understood, my lord."

    "Good." Dexter tapped Gustav''s shoulder in satisfaction. "Help me with my preparation. I will depart after my visit with Dani tomorrow. You''ll be moving there tomorrow as well."

 Chapter 601 He Deserves All The Bad Days

    "The Grand Duke isбн missing?" Aries repeated the news she just heard and also the point of Dexter''s visit.

    He nodded. "And I''ll lead the investigation since everyone''s hands were full at the moment."

    "Why?"

    "I just told you."

    "Yes, but why you, of all people?" Aries frowned, staring at Dexter across the small round table inside one of the sitting rooms in the Hyacinth Pce. She was d to hear Dexter requested an audience with her this morning since she truly needed to talk to him. However, the news he brought with him wasn''t what she had expected to hear nor a topic she wished to hear.

    "Because I''m still His Majesty''s people and regardless of our conflicting affiliation, I have a duty," exined Dexter, shrugging.

    "Butбн" she bit her inner lower lip and sighed. "Will it be dangerous? Are you sure the Grand Duke went missing, and he wasn''t held up because of a situation?"

    "If that is the case, then that''s better. But I still need to confirm."

    "I seeбн"

    Dexter studied her demeanor and tilted his head slightly. "Are you worried?"

    "That is a question with the most obvious answer." Aries snapped at him crankily. "Of course, I am worried. The Grand Duke was a capable man and if he truly went missing after a mission, then that means wherever you are heading could be dangerous."

    "I will be fine, Dani." He smiled, nodding at her reassuringly. His conversation with her sounded like a repeat of his exchange with Gustavst night.

    Aries wasn''t appeased, but she didn''t push it further, knowing it would be pointless. "When will you return?"

    "As soon as possible." His brows rose, noticing the disapproval in her eyes. Dexter let out a faint breath, bending over, and stretching his arm over the table. "Dani, I wille back in one piece."

    He wiggled his fingers until Aries reluctantly sped them. He squeezed her hand reassuringly, keeping his eyes on her.

    "I will retreat if something goes terribly wrong," he added, making Aries shake her head.

    "You retreat before everything goes terribly wrong."

    "Yes, I will retreat and save my own skin like a coward before anything happens." He nodded, but her frown deepened.

    "It''s not funny!" she snapped, gripping his hand tightly. "I''m serious."

    As he looked her in the eye, heughed and said, "I am too! I will be fine and return to you in one piece. I wille and find you first once I returned, so you better be safe while I''m away."

    "I am always safe."

    "You are, but somehow, you always find a way to get in trouble." Dexter deadpanned. It was obvious he was referring to the carriage incident days ago.

    Hearing this being broached again, Aries could not help but roll her eyes. However, she didn''t entertain it, as she didn''t want to discuss that again.

    Dexter let out another brief chuckle, releasing her hand as he drew away.

    "So, when will you set off?" she asked.<sub> </sub>

    "After my visit here, I''ll depart with a small unit of knights."

    "I seeбн so it''s really sudden."

    "Not quite, since Isaiah should''ve returned to the empire weeks ago. His Majesty simply gave a grace period before finally giving out his order."

    "So that''s how it wasбн"

    Dexter knitted his brows, seeing her rock her head before picking up the teacup in front of her. As she sipped tea, he narrowed his eyes.

    "Is something troubling you?" he inquired, making her brows raise.

    "No, nothing. Why did you ask?" she returned while putting the teacup back on the table.

    Dexter cocked his head to the side and blinked, waiting for a more honest answer from her. Seeing his reaction, Aries let out a dramatic sigh.

    "I just had a quarrel with Abel regarding the carriage incident, but I''ll be fine. Treat it as a normal banter between a married couple." Aries scratched her temple, sighing once more as it reminded her how bad things ended between the two of them yesterday.

    "We''ll be fine and figure things outбн eventually," she added, smacking her lips before forcing a smile at him. "Thank you for noticing."

    "You don''t have to thank me." Dexter winked, picking up the teacup to his lips. "I can stay for a little while longer. So, if you need ears to take things out of your mind and off your chest, I can lend you mine."

    Aries caught him wiggling his brows over the rim of the teacup before he took a sip. The corner of her lips curled slightly, moved by his offer.

    "You''ll judge me," she pointed out. "You and everyone are on the same side here."

    "The only thing that His Majesty and I can agree on is your safety. But even so, I never judge you."

    "But you won''t understand where I aming from. No one is on my side."

    "Dani, we are all on your side." Dexter nted his palms on the armrest and pushed himself up, walking over the table until he was standing behind her seat. He then ced his hands on her shoulder, massaging them gently.

    "I never said there was anything wrong with what you had done. Matter of fact, I wasn''t even surprised, knowing your nature." Aries looked up at him as he remarked kindly. "I nted all those knights to protect you not because harm is always following you, but for instances like that. I''m certain your husband had thought the same but allowed his shortsightedness reign over him."

    Aries let out a weak chuckle. "I thought you''d finally put in a good word about him."

    "I don''t know how things went down between the two of you, but seeing my sister is in a terrible mood, I assume it was pretty bad." He grinned yfully, squeezing her shoulder mildly. "I''d be a hypocrite to deny that it didn''t make me slightly happy."

    "I''m still upset about it."

    "I know, but he''s probably feeling a hundred times worse. I always think he deserves any bad day every time."

    "Brother, he''s still my husband, and it somewhat hurts my feelings when you''re speaking so cruelly about him."

    "He should learn how to stop upsetting my sister, then. Probably, I''d be a little considerate." Dexter shrugged, patting her shoulders before taking a step back.

    He stayed with her for a while, touching upon a variety of topics, but mostly avoided heavy ones before Dexter bid her farewell with a tight embrace. He told her he would have an audience with the emperor before his departure, only to find Abel, Sunny, and Marse busy nting flowers and nts in the vicinity of the forbidden mansion.

 Chapter 602 Its His Fault

    Dexter''s face contorted, watching the three Grimsbanne working on the garden busily. He went to the emperor''s chancery to have an audience with the emperor before his departure for the search, only to be redirected to the forbidden mansion within the imperial pce grounds. There were many things that went through the marquess'' head about what could Abel was doing, assuming the Emperor was preparing countermeasures for whatever the oue of this investigation was.

    Seeing him dig up the soil and till the garden with his sister and granddaughter, Dexter figured he thought too highly of Abel.

    "Is his quarrel with my sister ended as horribly as I heard?" Dexter turned to Conan, who was standing at a safe distance from the garden while watching the Grimsbannes.

    Conan nodded with his lips drawn into a thin line. "He''s been like that since yesterday. Even locked himself in that Joaquin''s cell to get a piece of advice."

    ? "So, his head isn''t very clear." Dexter set his eyes back on the three, sighing faintly. "Should I interrupt him? I guess I''ll leave without having an audience with him."

    "Uncle!" Dexter and Conan snapped their eyes when Sunny suddenly waved to get their attention. "Come,e!"

    Abel and Marse paused in what they were doing to look in their direction. Marse just snorted and shook her head, resuming watering the pots. Meanwhile, Abel ced his hands on his hips and stretched his body, groaning.

    "I don''t see the reason I need to see this," mumbled Dexter, but still dragged his feet towards them. He stood two meters from the three. His eyes fell on the grass and nt pots, eyes twitching upon a closer look as the flowerpots around tripled in number now that he stood closer.

    "Greetings, Your Majesty," he greeted for formality, only for Abel to wave dismissively.

    "You can drop the pretense, Marquess." Abel kept his hands on his hips, sporting a dull expression on him. "This is all your fault."

    Deep lines resurfaced on the Marquess''s forehead as he straightened his back. "As slow-witted as I am, I believed I had nothing to do with your quarrel with my sister. If she offended Your Majesty, I''ll happily withdraw her participation in the selection."

    "See what I am talking about, Marse?" Abel faced Marse while pointing at Dexter. "It''s his fault. He had spoiled my wife so much and now she wasshing out at me just because I have differing views."

    "I would highly appreciate it if you give me a moment of peace, Abel." Marse''s expression died. She had been listening to Abel and his woes regarding his ''crumbling'' marriage; she was tired of it.

    Abel frowned, narrowing his eyes at her. "Did you badmouth me in front of her?"

    "Hahбн it''s not badmouthing if it''s facts." She shrugged, casting Dexter a knowing look. "Right?"

    "Handsome Grandpa, who is the best in this world, won''t you bother to give the marquess your blessing and send him off with a good word?" Sunny chimed in. "He clearly came here to bid you farewell."

    "I do not need to send him off with a kind wordбн he didn''t even put a good word about me to his sister."

    "You are so dramatic it is so painful to watch you." Marse shook her head. "If you are dying, just rush to the Hyacinth Pce and apologize even if you don''t know what you''re apologizing for."

    "My papa does that, but then my mother will ask what he was apologizing for. Mama will get even furious whenever he answers ''for everything.''"<sub> </sub>

    Marseughed. "I guess I''ll go back to my initial advice --" and then looked at Abel. "Kill yourself, brother. This marriage is over."

    Abel let out a dramatic sigh, shaking his head because these two weren''t helping him. They were simply making his anxiety soar.

    "Dani had calmed down. If you want to talk to her, then now is the time." Dexter cleared his throat, almost forgetting he was there to tell Abel he would depart to search for Isaiah. They didn''t even show the slightest worry when the man had gone missing and no one knew where the hell he was.

    "I don''t believe you." Abel waved dismissively. "If you found Isaiah, tell him toe back immediately. Conan needs to shift his target from me."

    Dexter lowered his head. "Very well. I''ll be on my way."

    "Take care, Uncle~!" Sunny waved and offered Dexter a sweet smile. "If you see my papa or mama, please tell them I miss them."

    "If you see her parents, tell them to pick her up as soon as possible," Marse chimed. "This child is getting worse with Abel''s guidance."

    "My grandpa is handsome and cool and smart!"

    "She uplifts my mood." Abel smiled at the little girl''s obvious brown-nosing and then quirked a brow at Dexter. "Return in one piece, Marquess. Your sister will kill me if you died on a mission I personally sent you."

    "Understood, Your Majesty."

    With that being said, Dexter bowed slightly once again and scanned the three. He didn''t say anything anymore as he turned around, walking in Conan''s direction.

    "Morro will take you out if things get dangerous," said Conan, only for Dexter to chuckle.

    "I don''t need your encouragement." Dexter paused in his steps and cast Conan a look. "You should worry about them, especially him. I don''t think he had more patience to spare and continue this selection until the date of the coronation. He''ll rush it if he doesn''t reconcile with her tonight."

    Conan''s brows rose, offering Dexter a side-eye. "Don''t becent, Marquess. The unknown forces walking within the imperial grounds are sly. I wouldn''t be surprised if the people Darkmore met on his way back are troublesomeds to deal with."

    "Sure." Dexter waved weakly, sauntering off, not willing to have an extended conversation with Conan. As he walked to a distance, Dexter suddenly stopped and looked back. Conan was still standing on the same spot while watching the Grimsbanne kill time in the garden.

    Dexter then raised his eyes at the mansion behind the three, furrowing his brows as he fixed his eyes on a particr window.

    "I felt like someone was staring at me from there," he mumbled, shaking his head to ignore the brief feeling of being watched just now before he resumed his steps.

 Chapter 603 Should I Put My Bet On You?

    "Brother!"

    Dexter looked back and saw Aries running in his direction. She was clutching her skirt as she dashed to him, making his brows knit in puzzlement. When Aries stood in front of him, she was already catching up to her breathing, an obvious sign she ran all the way there.

    "Dani." He signaled the knights to wait, facing her squarely. "What are you бк why are you here? Don''t you have arrangements during this time? Why did you rush here? Is there something wrong?"

    Aries cleared her throat, straightening her back. "I forgot to give you this." The side of her lips stretched into a subtle smile, offering her hand to him.

    "Huh?" Dexter gazed down, watching her open her hand, and revealed a ck trinket. He picked it up despite his puzzlement, raising it to examine it.

    "Hahбн this trinket is for?" he asked, setting his eyes back to her.

    "A protection charm." Aries smiled. "I had been learning fromбн" she looked around cautiously before leaning forward to whisper, "... this spell from Marse. I forgot to give it to you earlier, so I rushed here."

    "A lucky charm, huh?" Dexter rocked his head, smiling. He sped the trinket, snapping his eyes back to her.

    "It''s not just a lucky charm, but in case something happens, it will protect you."

    "And how will this protect me?"

    Aries shrugged. "I don''t know yet, but I have good faith in my abilities." She extended her hand and held his hand that was holding the trinket. "Always keep this with you, hmm? Only if you promised will I let you ride your steed."

    "I never believed in charms, but I will." His smile stretched broader, nodding at her reassuringly. "I don''t like Darkmore''s magic, but I believe in yours. This charmбн feels reassuring for sure."

    Aries smiled in relief, releasing his hand carefully. She took a step back to give way to him, watching him put the trinket inside his coat.

    "May you have a safe journey, brother. I''ll wait for your return," she expressed, watching him hold the reins while standing on the side of the steed. Dexter looked back at her and smiled, nodding, and then climbed up the horse.

    His eyes scanned the small group of knights around and then his gaze fell on her once again. He shed her another smile before he yelled for them to depart. Her smile remained on her face, watching her brother and the knights amble up the dirt away.

    Only when they were already in a distance did the smile on her face fade as worry shone in her eyes.

    "Why do I feel so restless about this?" she wondered to herself, clutching her hand close to her chest. "He''ll be alright, Aries. The protection charm will keep him from harm."

    Aries repeated those words like a chant until the restlessness in her heart subsided. Perhaps it was just that she wasn''t used to Dexter going to a faraway ce with a mission. Even though she lived in the pce right now, knowing Dexter was just around put her heart at ease.

    "That''s right." She nodded, forcing a smile to her face.

    Aries then turned, walking back to the Hyacinth Pce. Unlike how she sprinted from the Hyacinth Pce to the inner pce, Aries took her time on her way back to the candidate''s dwelling. When she reached the Hyacinth Pce''s premises, her steps slowed down until she halted.<sub> </sub>

    Looking at the woman ahead, Aries lowered her head as a greeting to the woman standing at the other end of the hallway. She then resumed her steps, walking ahead with her chin up.

    "I see you were in a rush this morning, Lady Danie."

    Aries stopped when she walked past the candidate, Princess Agnes. She looked back and smiled subtly.

    "It seemed you had seen me in such an embarrassing predicament," she humored, keeping it civil with her.

    "Do not worry, mydy. I won''t tell anyone."

    "I appreciate that." Aries tilted her head down. "Very well. I''ll be on my way, princess."

    With that being said, Aries didn''t idle as she took a step away from the princess. At this point, Aries was already familiar with the candidates. Aside from Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika, there were actually other candidates who had left an impression on Aries, and one of them was the sophisticated Princess Agnes.

    "Should I put my bet on you, mydy?" Aries stopped once again when Agnes spoke. Thetter slowly turned, facing Aries''s figure.

    "Should you put your bet on me?" Aries repeated, turning around to face her the second time. "I am not following, Your Highness."

    Agnes smiled, but it didn''t reach her eyes. "This selection. Should I bet on you?"

    "I heard you, but I don''t understand why would Your Highness support me."

    "Let''s drop the pretense, Lady Danie. Supporting another candidate isn''t a surprise. The princess from Chivisea, Topia, and Nuirus is supporting you. It''s the same with the rest of the candidates who didn''t have high hopes of clinching the title of the Empress," Agnes said, arching a brow knowingly.

    "Indeed," agreed Aries with a nod. "But isn''t that the same with you? There is Lady Wendell and otherdies supporting you, Princess. In my opinion, you are the strongest candidate there is right now, and Lady Ivoryes in second."

    Agnesughed modestly. "Am I?"

    "You do not have to support me, Your Highness."

    "And why shouldn''t I? Don''t you want to be an Empress?"

    <o>,m Aries smiled, shrugging weakly. "Who doesn''t?" she said, holding the princess''s gaze in momentary silence. "I just don''t want to owe more people in the future. I think my answer is clear enough, so I''ll be on my way. May you enjoy your stroll, Your Highness. Although it''ll be better if you stroll with apany."</o>

    With that being said, Aries turned around to return to her chambers or find her friends to have some tea. She wanted to check on those three princesses since she knocked them out yesterday to quarrel with Abel.

    "Aries Aime Heathcliffe."

 Chapter 604 Did Someone Call Me?

    "Aries Aime Heathcliffe."

    Aries suddenly froze from her spot after three steps when Agnes spoke to get her attention. Her eyes dted, holding on to her breathing, wondering how Agnes knew about her.

    "Have you heard about her, Lady Danie?" Aries slowly turned around, knitting her brows, only to secretly sigh in relief upon seeing the cluelessness in the princess'' eyes. "She was a fallen princess from the fallennd of Rikhill. I heard His Majesty took her in after her captivity in the Maganti Empire over a year ago."

    Agnes sauntered towards Aries and stopped in front of her.

    "I will give you all the support you need and all I want in return is to help me locate her." Her eyes shone solemnly. "Or uncover the truth of what happened to her."

    Aries furrowed her brows. At this point, she was convinced Agnes didn''t know the appearance of the woman she was looking for. She also didn''t have any recollection of knowing Princess Agnes or any connection with her in the past.

    "A fallen princess from thend of Rikhillбн?" Aries quirked a brow, choosing her words carefully. "I heard about her. She was a ve of the former crown prince of the Maganti Empire."

    Agnes''s eyes shone, taking a step forward. "Did you see her?"

    "No." Aries narrowed her eyes, taking a step back to create distance between them. "I said I heard about her because the crown prince was obsessed with her. Hence, I''d hear stories here and there."

    "Is that so?"

    "Why, Your Highness?" she asked,pletely intrigued by the princess''s reason. "Why are you looking for that... ve?"

    "I would appreciate it if you refrain from calling her a ve, mydy."

    "But I am speaking the truth." Aries blinked. "This fallen princess was disgraced to ruin. No one helped her from the hands of the cruel crown prince but herself. So, I''m curious why a distinguished person such as yourself is suddenly looking for the poor woman. She escaped the clutches of hell. If she was alive, shouldn''t you let her be?"

    "If she''s alive and living a peaceful life, I''ll let her be. But if she isn''t and had lived worse, I would want to get the truth of her death and the person responsible for it." Agnes raised her chin. "My offer will always be valid. I hope you reconsider."

    She then took a step back, bowing slightly at Aries. She held thetter''s eyes for a moment before she turned around, sauntering off silently. Meanwhile, Aries remained on her spot while staring at the princess''s back.

    "That''s strangeбн" she whispered, turning on her heel, walking away in the opposite direction.

    Aries nned to meet Veronika, Sybil, and Suzanne to check on them. But when she saw the three in the garden with the otherdies, obviously fighting with them through words, Aries quietly returned to her chambers.

    In her chambers, Gertrude served Aries a calming tea while Aries spent the rest of the day locked in her room. Sitting on the chair near the window, Aries was leaning back, eyes on the book on the table in front of her, but her mind was obviously drifting away.

    "Princess Agnesбн" came out a whisper, narrowing her eyes, reviewing her encounter with the princess. "I don''t know you, but why are you looking for me?"

    It didn''t make sense to Aries and no matter how she racked her brain, she couldn''t get a memory that she could connect to Princess Agnes. Veronika was a different story since she was affiliated with Ismael Imperial, but Agnesбн Aries met her for the first time at the start of the selection.<sub> </sub>

    "But I can''t deny the sincerity in her eyes." Aries tilted her head to the side, frowning upon meeting a dead end. "Should I reveal I am the woman she was looking for? But what if it was a strategy?"

    Aries shook her head to get that idea out of her mind. There were many underlying reasons Aries didn''t reveal her identity to Agnes, and one of them was she couldn''t trust anyone so easily. She might not fully know what Agnes''s real motives were, but Aries already told herself to be careful around the candidates.

    Being in this selection for almost a month now, Aries never truly paid attention because she had been busy getting used to her powers. However, now that she was slowly knowing how to control a certain amount of magic, she realized it was about time to observe the candidates.

    They were full of surprises, and thest thing she wanted was to get caught up in aplicated predicament.

    As Aries was mulling about her ns for the following days, she quirked a brow. Her eyes veered towards the shelf where the secret door was hiding.

    "Rightбн" A shallow breath slipped past her lips, recalling she had yet made up with Abel. "... I''ve always been so curious about where this passage leads."

    Aries nted her hand on the armrest, pushing herself up. She strolled towards the shelf, pushing it to the side until the shut door behind it was right before her. Aries felt the door as if it didn''t have a knob, recoiling when it creaked open after pushing it slightly.

    "God, that surprised me." She patted her chest, approaching it carefully. She peeked her head in and then stepped inside. Her eyes fell on the stairs, which she didn''t expect, but somehow made sense to her.

    "So it''s an underground tunnelбн" came out a whisper, walking back to the room to get a candbra before going back to the secret door. Standing at the entrance of the stairs while holding the candbra, a me suddenly appeared on it to give light to her path.

    "Marse and Abel usually use this path whenever they pleasedбн" she murmured, extending her arm to see further ahead while walking down the stairs carefully. "... there shouldn''t be anything bad in here, right?"

    Aries talked to herself even more actively when she reached thest step. The tunnel was dark, steep, and eerily silent. She stretched her arm even further, but the light could only reach a little further ahead.

    "Should I go back?" she looked back, realizing the stairs were steep and long. "No, I''m already here, so I might as well continue."

    Aries looked ahead, and her grip on the candbra trembled, making the light dance on her face. She huffed, nodding encouragingly before she took a step forward. Her steps were careful and light, but the further she delved into the darkness, the louder her footsteps sounded in her ears.

    She could feel her stomach turning in fear, humming a tune when the silence began to sound piercingly loud. How the hell could those two go in and out of her room through this underground tunnel with how eerie their steps sounded in here?

    The tunnel felt endless, and Aries thought it was an infinite walk until she saw the stairs going up. Her eyes instantly lit up, hastening her steps, only to push the door open. As soon as Aries jumped out of the underground tunnel, she blinked and looked around.

    "It leads here?" she furrowed her brows, recognizing the walls of this corridor. It was the forbidden mansion.

    "Wellбн" Aries fixed her poise and cleared her throat. "... that is anti-climaticбн huh?"

    Aries gazed at the hallway on her left. "Did someone call me?" she wondered, dragging her feet as she headed to a particr room and only realized it when she was standing by the door of the chamber where Conan''s father was sleeping.

 Chapter 605 You Win

    Aries didn''t know why or how she got into this chamber where Conan''s father was sleeping. Everything just felt like a blur, only to snap out of her trance and find herself standing by the door. She looked back, gazing to her left and then right. The corridor was empty, as expected.

    "I shouldn''t be here," she whispered, looking back inside the chamber on instinct. Her eyes fell on the person sleeping peacefully on the bed, making her bite her lip. "Should I check on him since I''m already here?"

    Aries gravitated about it for a moment, and in the end, she entered the chamber carefully. She still announced her intrusion in a half whisper, as if that would make her appear less rude. Standing on the side of the bed, her eyes glossed over the man sleeping on it.

    "Uhmбн greetings, Your Majestyбн" she clutched her biceps, her arm across her body. "I honestly don''t know why I am here, but it feels likeбн you called for me."

    Her brows rose, staring at the man expectantly. Aries waited for a moment and sighed deeply. What did she expect? That he would open his eyes and answer her assumption? Wouldn''t that be even more horrifying, though?

    "What am I doing?" she murmured, walking around to the other side to sit on the armchair.

    She sat down on it, assuming apanying someone in slumber and talking to him might help. Aries gazed at the man again and then wondered who was maintaining the man''s hygiene. Her thoughts might sound random, but they piqued her curiosity.

    "I wonder if Sir Conan hadn''t known about you just yetбн" A deep exhale slipped past her lips. "Considering I didn''t hear him throwing a huge fit, he probably hadn''t known yet."

    Aries fiddled with her fingers while resting her hands on herp. "I know it wasn''t my ce to intrude in this sacred ce of Your Majesty and it''s presumptuous of me to even sit in here, butбн is your rtionship with him that sullied it is irreparable?" бк because until now, Aries couldn''t understand it.

    She said she would patiently wait for the day Conan would tell her his story. However, they had been very preupied that she barely had a few exchanges with Conan. Looking at the king of the maind and vampires now, her curiosity about what could be the real nature of Conan and this man''s rtionship consistently soared.

    "Sunny said you were betrayed and barely came out of the maind aliveбн" she breathed out. "I don''t know if I should wish you a faster recovery, but since Abel is keeping you here, that means you aren''t that terrible, right?"

    Aries forced a meek smile, keeping her eyes on the sleeping man. "I wish you will be better soon, Your Majesty. And resolve whatever misunderstanding you have with Sir Conan. After allбн one way or another, I sort of understand your disposition."

    "You see, myte father had also made decisions that his children aren''t particrly happy about. However, because he was patient and allowed us to understand his position as the king, we бк his subjects included бк were able to inherit his will," she continued, rting whatever situation Conan and this man had with her family. "I might not have the full understanding of what happened, nor do I have any notion of what you are as a person, but I put my hand on my chest and say Sir Conan is a lot more understanding."

    "He might act like a child at times and speak so insensitively, but your son is a good man," Aries added reassuringly. "He will hear youбн if only you are a little more persistent, just like him."

    Her eyes softened, hoping for a good ending once this man woke up.

    "Anyway, I need to return." Aries pped her thigh as she stood up. "I will try to make time and visit you so you won''t feel that lonely."<sub> </sub>

    She performed a shallow curtsy, smiling in satisfaction with this rtively kind gesture of sparing a person in aa a time of the day. A smile dominated her face as she left the room, only to recoil in surprise when weed by a person outside the chamber.

    Aries turned to the person leaning against the wall beside the door. Abel had his arms folded under his chest, looking at her with an arched brow.

    "Goodness, you surprised me," she breathed out a jagged breath before closing the doorpletely. When she secured the door, Aries faced Abel.

    "Iбн" her words got stuck in her throat, clearing it. "I went through the secret passage out of curiosity. I didn''t know it leads here, soбн"

    Aries smacked her lips and raised her brows briefly. "I didn''t mean to intrude."

    "You didn''t mean, huhбн?" Abel whispered to himself.

    "What?" she asked curiously.

    "Nothing." Abel peeled his back from the wall, eyes shining with despondency. "Go back if your curiosity is sated."

    He waved dismissively, turning to leave her alone. Seeing him turn his back on her, disappointment shrouded her heart. Abel was still apparently upset about yesterday, but who wouldn''t be upset if she chased him away after speaking so cruelly to him?

    "Abel." Aries lurched, grabbing the hem of his clothes to stop him from walking away. Her action stopped him, making him look back at her grip with an arched brow.

    Abel slowly raised his eyes up at her, waiting for her to state her reason for stopping him.

    "Can weбн talk?" she asked, releasing the hem of his clothes when he wordlessly faced her. "About yesterdayбн"

    Aries bit her lower lip nervously while rubbing her fingers against each other. To be truthful, Aries still believed she wasn''t in the wrong here. Matter of fact, she didn''t know if there was even right or wrong in this discussion, but it was demoralizing to have an unresolved issue with Abel.

    She let out a deep breath and looked him in the eye.

    "You win, Abel," she stated. "I''m sorry if I said something very cruel yesterday; I didn''t fully intend to mean it like that and I have no excuse for being so sensitive. Let''s not argue anymore, I''m sorry."

 Chapter 606 It Feels Like A Decade For Me

    "I''m sorry if I said something very cruel yesterday; I didn''t fully intend to mean it like that and I have no excuse for being so sensitive. Let''s not argue anymore. I''m sorry."

    The luster in Aries''s eyes showed rity and sincerity. More than being right, she just wanted the two of them to make up. It was not like she believed she waspletely right бк she wasn''tpletely wrong either, but was that even more important than their rtionship?

    Abel''s silence slowly pushed her anxiety to soar. He was just staring at her silently, making her wonder what was in his head right now. Was he still that upset? Will he not forgive her anymore? Myriads of thoughts crossed her mind while being under his gaze, and with every passing second he wasn''t saying anything, those thoughts grew even more ridiculous and negative.

    "Let''s makeup, Abelбн" came out a tiny voice, clipping the hem of his clothes in between her thumb and index. Her lips quivered as a thinyer of tears coated her eyes. "Don''t be angry anymore, darling. I missed you."

    Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly, peeling her fingers away from his clothes. Seeing this, her heart sank, only for it to skip a beat when he pulled her into his embrace.

    "Who said I was trying to win the argument, darling?" his voice was deep and rasped,ced with longing and relief. "And what took you so long toe to me? I thought I was going to wither away waiting for you."

    He felt her small body with hisrge palms, burying his face in her shoulder. Every passing second since leaving her chambers yesterday was pure torture, and everyone around him knew how many times he went back and forth through that underground tunnel to see her, but ended up not going to.

    Feeling his chest vibrate against her, a subtle smile resurfaced on her face. She slowly wrapped her arms around his waist, squeezing him mildly and then loosening her grip.

    "It hasn''t been a day," she humored soothingly.

    "It felt a decade for me."

    Aries bit her lips to stop herself fromughing. Abel was such a dramatic person and exaggerates things. If only she knew it wasn''t an exaggeration, and he actually tried to make it sound less by reducing the time to a decade instead of a century.

    "Are we alright now?" she asked. "Or are you still upset with me?"

    Abel moved his face, rubbing it on her shoulder. "I forgot," he confessed. "I was even more upset you didn''t want to see me. I forgot what we''re arguing about."

    "Who said I didn''t want to see you?" she nced at him, patting his back mildly. "I was upset, but that doesn''t mean I don''t love you."

    "Good."

    His embrace tightened, unwilling to let her go, afraid she would just go. The image of her looking away after chasing him out kept reying in his head. His eyes cracked open slightly, resting his chin on her shoulder.

    "Don''t do that again, Aries," Abel remarked, holding her shoulder as he drew back to look at her face. "Don''t do that again."

    "You mean jumping in the middle of the streetбн" she stopped when he shook his head.

    "Don''t look away from me again, darling." He cupped her cheek, stretching his thumb to the corner of her eyes. "Or I''ll scoop your eyes out and put them in a jar."

    Her face stiffened as she unconsciously held her breath. "What?"

    "Nothing." Abel smiled, but she knew it was not ''nothing.''

    She definitely heard him threaten her, and Aries was certain he meant it. For obvious reasons, the hair behind her neck raised the more she thought about his previous remarks, but squashed it down because she has good faith love conquers all бк even his insane thoughts, hopefully.

    "I was also in the wrong. So, I apologize, darling." Her thoughts came to a halt when he spoke again. "I didn''t mean to hurt your feelings by the things I had said. I reflected on my actions."

    Aries smiled, throwing the random thoughts at the back of her head. "It''s alright now. You said it yourself. You aren''t trying to win, and neither was I. I didn''t quarrel to win, but so we meet in the middle."

    "Did we meet halfway?"

    "I don''t know." She shrugged. "Did we?"<sub> </sub>

    Abel pondered for a moment. "I guess we did."

    "Then, that''s what''s important, yes?" the corner of her lips stretched wider while he nodded in agreement. Aries held his hand that was still cupping her face, blinking in anticipation. "I believe we should be kissing right now."

    "You think so?"

    "You don''t want to?" she asked incredulously. Abel would kiss and make love to her at every opportunity he get, so this truly came as a surprise.

    "I''m kidding." He chuckled with his lips closed, bending over to im her lips. "I would''ve pinned you against the wall while apologizing бк good thing I didn''t."

    Abel grinned against her lips, taking it as a good decision he didn''t pin her against the wall when she asked him to talk. At the very least, they resolved their issue and could make out freely.

    "Mhmбн" she moaned in his mouth, snaking her arms around his neck. Aries followed his footstep when he took a step forward carefully, keeping her eyes shut, kissing him just as hungrily and ardently as him. When she felt the cold wall on her back, Aries reluctantly parted her lips from his.

    She was catching up to her breath as her face turned red from theck of oxygen.

    "Not here," she breathed out a jagged breath while Abel traced kisses on her neck.

    "No one''s here," he whispered back, pulling her lean waist while propping his knee in between her legs.

    Aries clutched his shoulder des, letting out a short whimper when he bit her shoulder. The warm atmosphere between them just turned hotter in a snap of a finger, and his gentle caress gradually grew rough with a tinge of impatience. But Aries didn''t want toin; she tried, but to be honest, she didn''t mind even if they do it in this corridor.

    No one was allowed in this forbidden mansion and the other person in this ce was in aa.

    "As far as I remember, there are countless rooms in this house for the two of you to do this miracle."

    Aries jumped in surprise as her brain went nk upon hearing Marse''s sarcastic voice. Abel also paused, turning to their right. There, Marse was holding Sunny, looking back at them with a poker face.

    Sunny quietly took Marse''s hand to cover her eyes, as that should the adult should do. "Pretty Grandma, you should protect my innocence."

    "Animalsбн" Marse clicked her tongue, shaking her head incredulously. "This poor baby here is too young to witness such indecency."

    "Ha haбн Masterбн Sunny." Aries smiled awkwardly, pping Abel''s shoulder aggressively to signal him to step back.

    "You''re just envious I made up with my darling," remarked Abel with a smirk, taking a step back from Aries but keeping her hand in his grip. "If I were you two, stay away from here because I''ll make my wife sing all night."

    Abel grinned triumphantly, casting Aries a knowing look. "Let''s go somewhere no one can interrupt us, darling."

    "Uhбн"

    "If I see that one stone that killed the two birds, I will use it on these lovebirds." Marse snorted, watching Abel drag Aries away to do the obvious. She then turned to Sunny, removing her hand from the little ''boy''s'' eyes.

    "You seem used to this sort of thing," she pointed out, watching Sunny look up at her almost innocently.

    "Grandpa reminds me of my papa."

    "Is everyone in this family have an active sex life but me? I hate them all." Marse rolled her eyes and then tugged the little girl''s hand. "Whatever. Let''s visit your friend in aa."

    With that being said, Marse and Sunny proceeded to get into the chambers to examine the king. An activity both of them had been doing to awaken the person who was on a brink of eternal slumber.

 Chapter 607 You Know The Drill, Darling.

    <strong>[ WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. ]</strong>

    Abel didn''t waste a breath the second they reached his room in the forbidden mansion. Abel just threw Aries on the bed, his eyes dark, yet his dangerous intention was clear. Aries''s awkwardness after getting found out by her sister-inw and granddaughter making out with him didn''tst long as she watched him unbutton his shirt with his eyes fixed on her.

    She bit her lip, propping her elbow against the mattress. Her eyes stayed on his pair of maizing eyes, but she couldn''t help but lower her gaze from his taut neck down to his exposed chest and abs. Abel removed his vest and then his inner dress shirt, raising his knee on the edge of the mattress with nothing but his trousers on.

    Aries nted a hand on his firm chest on instinct, staring at his face that was just a palm length away from her.

    "Thest time we are hereбн" she dawdled, feeling his chest with her palm as she slowly caressed his cors and neck. She flexed her fingers until her fingertips reached his lips, batting her eyshes coquettishly. "... you left."

    "Because you chose that child over me." He raised his brows briefly, casually twirling a finger around the drawstrings of her bodice before pulling it away. "They won''t interrupt me again."

    Aries smiled whilst biting her lip. "Undress me."

    "Slowly?" he cocked his head to the side, ncing down to look at her reserved dress. It looked like a hassle to take off. "I don''t think I have the patience to spare."

    Abel stood on his knees and held the dress with both his hands, about to rip the front of her clothes. His ns were stopped when she held his wrist, shaking her head mildly.

    "I won''t have any change of clothesбн" she trailed off when the ripping sound of fabric echoed in her ears, freeing her bosom. Aries nearly shivered when the cold inbound breeze ran up her navel as he didn''t hold back in ruining her clothes.

    "Abel бк"

    "I don''t have the patience, I said." He cast her a knowing look, pulling the sleeve of her dress over her shoulders. Abel exposed her top as the rip of her dress was perfect in the middle, revealing her perfect mounds and her pink nub, and her t stomach.

    "Beautifulбн" he whispered, wondering thest time he had seen her naked glory. It was still a surprise for him. How the hell can he survive a day without having an orgasm when he had a very delectable wife?

    Aries cleared her throat to get his attention as he just silently stared at her exposed bosom.

    "What are you thinking?" she asked with a tiny voice, extending her arms to rest her hands on his nape. "It''s insulting that you''re suddenly spacing out."

    Abel pressed his body against hers, looking at her face up close. "I was wondering why am I still not inside you," he humored, biting her lips yfully.

    "That''s because you were spacing out," she teased back, making him chuckle into her mouth. Aries moaned as she closed her eyes, allowing his tongue to explore her mouth while his hand slipped under her skirt. She didn''t know how he managed to take off theyers underneath her skirt as her increasing body heat grew consistent.

    "Ah!" Aries snapped her eyes open when he suddenly parted his lips from her, only to flip her like she weighed nothing. Now lying on her stomach, Aries looked back as she felt his weight on her back.<sub> </sub>

    "Abel, what are you бк"

    Abel wrapped his arm around her waist, lifting her up until she was on her knees. His lips curled up in satisfaction, putting a hand on her spine to stop her from standing up.

    "I want to see your ass," he said, shing her a brighter smile. "Have I ever told you you had the sexiest back I had seen?"

    Aries pursed her lips, and her arms that were supporting her position trembled. "No," she whispered, biting her tongue as she felt his hand trace her spine. His palms were rough, they were always rough, but there was something in their roughness that amplified his gentle touch.

    "Then, now, you know."

    Aries shivered at the touch of his lips on the back of her shoulder. She lowered her head slightly, mouth falling open, letting him kiss her back slowly and carefully. Her face turned redder and redder as his lips slowly made it south, making her clutch the sheet.

    Not seeing him simply amplified her curiosity and made her imagination wild. Aries snuck a peek, looking back at him. Her pupils dted upon seeing him check her rear curiously.

    "Wait, Abel бк" Aries gasped as her limbs trembled, curling her toes as his hands squeezed her buttcheeks while gliding his tongue over her petals.

    "Ahбн" she let out a sharp breath, her mouth agape, resting her forehead against her arms. This wasn''t the first time Abel devoured her, but it was the first time in such a position. It felt slightly ufortable, but somehow, no matter how her knees and arms shudder from keeping her weight, she was fighting it.

    "Abel," she called airily, looking back with her cheek resting over her arms.

    Abel drew back to look at her, smirking seeing the deep blush on her face. How cute.

    "What, darling?" he asked, feigning ignorance of the hint in her tone. "What do you want?"

    She bit her lips and frowned. "You already knowбн"

    Of course, he knew. Aries didn''t need to say what she wanted now because her flower was already dripping, crying desperately to swallow him whole. But Abel wasn''t really the most thoughtful man alive to not take pleasure in wanting to hear it directly from her.

    "Sadly, I don''t have any idea of what you are talking about, darling." Abel fluttered his eyshes innocently, massaging her clitoris as her love juices covered his slender fingers.

    "How longбн will you make me wait?" her voice sounded more quiet, clutching the sheet even tighter with the stimtion he was doing.

    "Until you asked for it?" he tilted his head to the side as half of her face was hidden by her arms. "You know the drill, darling. Just ask and I will happily satisfy you."

 Chapter 608 Fuck Her Until Her Ears Bleed

    <strong>[WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. ]</strong>

    "You know the drill, darling. Just ask and I will happily satisfy you."

    "Mhm..." Aries moaned, shivering as Abel nted a kiss on her rump. Her breathing grew heavier as his hand had done everything on her core except inserting it inside her.

    "Ple -- please... put it in," she requested through her gritted teeth, getting even more desperate every passing second. She raised her head, revealing her beet red countenance and the tear in the corner of her eyes.

    "I... want you in, now," she confessed, making him smirk.

    "Then your wish is mymand." Abel took his hand from her pool of moisture and put it under his trouser, taking his erection out. He caught her gulp at the sight of it and how her eyes shone in anticipation. Surely, she wanted him -- probably more than he wanted her, which was the first for him.

    ''I will... fuck her until her ears bleed,'' was what came into his head, positioning his manhood at her entrance.

    Abel yed the tip of his erection against her folds, gliding it up and down, tapping it against hers mildly. He didn''t need to do much with this much love nectar leaking out of her, but he was being patient so as not to hurt her.

    "I''ming in," he announced, but to his surprise, she secreted more fluids even before he could do anything. "Darling, are you that excited?"

    Aries groaned, burying her face in her arms. "Stop teasing me!" sheined, her voice muffled.

    "But I am ttered." Heughed, positioning his member at her entrance. But instead of sticking it in, he let his tip hover over her core, holding her waist with both his hands and with one swift thrust, Aries felt him to the very depths.

    A moan that wasced with a mix of pleasure and pain erupted in the air as her body shuddered. Aries was a petite woman with trained muscles, so even though her heart was always willing, her body couldn''t withstand such a sudden entrance.

    "Ah!" Aries looked back in panic when he moved his hips after the momentary pause, but was unable to say or do anything as he bent over to im her lips. "Mhm!"

    His massive length went in and out of her, stretching her flower seams until the pain dispersed and there was nothing but pleasure. Abel reluctantly peeled his lips from her, holding her thigh, and then pulled her down until his feet were out of the bed. Another careless whimper escaped her mouth as his action nearly broke her soul.

    Looking down at him, Abel held her ankle up, letting her lie on her side. A cold smile turned up on his face, making her shudder with this position.<sub> </sub>

    "No," Aries whispered, knowing this position would drive her crazy. However, just as that word slipped past her lips, Abel thrust forth, pounding into her cave. Her essence clenched on instinct, feeling his length all the way to the end of her walls.

    Abel kept pounding into her, pulling his waist only to thrust with such intensity. He repeated the process over and over until Aries felt dizzy. He seemed to tell her something in between, but she felt so lightheaded his words just went over her head.

    The sound of her moans and their tangled bodies resonated for many minutes, kissing in between, and switching to different positions. This wasn''t their first time, but for Aries, this was the first time everything just felt raw, as if they were animals mating. He was merciless, not letting her go, and just kept fucking her sore. Yet, she couldn''t deny it felt surprisingly great.

    Aries let out another shriek,bing through his green hair. After rolling on the bed with him for what she assumed was more than an hour, Aries and Abel returned to the missionary position. His hand pinned her hand to the side, hammering her insides nonstop while biting her shoulder.

    "I''m almost..." she forced out a breath, wrapping her legs around his waist. She couldn''t count how many times she had orgasmed, but a part of her was sure this would be thest in this round. It was too much already, and she wanted to give up.

    Aries heard him whisper, "just one more" in her ears, but she didn''t fully grasp what that meant as she had reached another orgasm. Only after her body felt like still water as shey underneath him listlessly did she understand what he meant by that ''just one more.''

    Abel only let her rest for less than five minutes, kissing her lips and wiping the sweat off her forehead before he began thrusting again. Her body instantly stiffened, looking at him in horror.

    "Didn''t you orgasm?" she blurted out, holding his shoulder des. Aries already felt theck of oxygen with how long they had been tangled together, and her back that was rubbing against the sheet was already hot due to friction.

    "Your next one will take longer, darling. I mighte then." Abel nted a kiss on her lips, smirking.

    Aries felt a chill down her spine, shaking her head groggily. "No, I can''t take it anymore..." flew out of her mouth, wanting to run away now only for him to press down his body on her.

    "No can do." He chuckled, biting her neck yfully. "I told you... I''ll fuck you until your ears bleed."

    A reluctant and protesting moan escaped her mouth, certain her flower hole was already swollen. This was by far the longest they had had for just one round, and the urge to run away grew stronger. If not for his expertise in knowing her most sensitive parts and filling her to the brim, Aries would think it was the end for her.

    Fortunately, Abel was extremely good at pleasuring her and Aries soon embraced the wave of pleasure and the me of desire that he kept reigniting. It took them another few ten minutes before she writhed underneath his weight, both screaming each other''s names as they reached orgasm together.

 Chapter 609 Ill Do My Best

    <strong>[ WARNING: MATURE CONTENT AHEAD. ]</strong>

    Abel did Aries all day untilte in the evening as if he was punishing her. He had so much energy to spare, and only when she literally begged him to rest did he reconsider. Because of his seemingly endless energy in their union, Aries instantly fell asleep.

    She didn''t know what had happened and passed out while catching up on her breathing. When midnight rolled in, the dryness of her throat woke her up. A faint moan slipped past her shut lips, moving, only to realize she was still confined in his arms.

    Aries looked back. Abel was hugging her from behind, his strong arms wrapped around her securely. When she moved slightly, her nerves tensed up upon the realization he didn''t pull out.

    ''Goodnessбн he should pull out if he''s gone to sleep,'' she thought, attempting to slip away to get a ss of water, but his arms pulled her closer against his body. She frowned as his waist moved, poking her passage slightly, making her core clench on instinct.

    ''What is he doing?'' she wondered, holding his arm that was wrapped around her body like a snake. ''Is he having a dream?''

    Abel moved his hips mildly, not enough for her to assume he was awake, and deliberately stretched her passage until she was dripping to lubricate their joint organs. Hence, Aries thought he was simply acting on instinct or having a perverted dream.

    "Abel," she called, trying to take his arm from her.

    To her surprise, he suddenly grabbed the hand that was taking his arm away. He pinned it to her side, and the next thing she knew, his warm and sturdy body covered her back.

    "Darling, you are so naughty. How can you tease me the moment you wake up?" His voice was low and coarse, tilting his head to the side with a misced puzzlement in his weary eyes.

    "I didn''t бк"

    "If that''s what you want, then I don''t mind continuing where we left off." Abel bent over, biting the tip of her ear.

    Aries raised her shoulders as her body shuddered when his hips moved in a slow and careful manner. He went through her passage and stretched her flower seams until the soreness and dryness slowly turned hot and soaking, making his thrust smoother.

    Another moan slipped past her lips as his hand crawled around her body, cupping her breast from behind her, and kneading them sensually. Her mouth fell open, allowing his teeth to sink into her bare shoulder. Aries didn''t even notice that it wasn''t just his normal teeth that were into her, but Abel had bared his fangs and was simultaneously drinking her blood while sinking his member into the very depths of her canal.

    The sleep restored her energy, swallowing him whole enthusiastically. Her moans were unrestrained, echoing across the entire chamber, enjoying his dominance she barely enjoyed earlier today as it was just suffering with a bit of pleasure.

    After minutes of continuous pounding and moaning, kissing and sucking, a wave of heat washed over her as she convulsed underneath him. She felt him jerk inside, filling her to the brim, as the fluids damped the junction in between her legs and the sheet.

    Abel copsed on her back, watching his weight so as not to crush her. He was catching up to his breathing, and the natural scent of her skin wafted through his nostrils. It smelled pleasant. He licked the tiny holes his fangs left on her shoulder, pressing his body on her back to calm her trembling body.

    "Water," she whispered, throat even drier now. She nced over her shoulder, noticing the tiny holes in it.

    "I was thirsty," he confessed, drawing his head back. His expression was bright, somewhat rejuvenated after another round of passion instead of exhaustion. "Should I get you water?"

    "Can you?" she curled up her lips, but her eyes revealed slight exhaustion. Aries shut one of her eyes when he nted a kiss on the corner of her eye.

    "Of course." He grinned, pulling out reluctantly to get her a ss of water.

    Abel stood bare on the end of the bed, eyes on her bare back with the sheet covering her rump. Her hair was set messily to the side of the bed, still lying on her tummy, using her arms as her pillow. His lips curled up into a smirk when she nced down at him.<sub> </sub>

    "I''ll be back, darling," he said, picking up the robe draped on the chair nearby. Abel covered his body with it while walking out of the room. There was no servant in the forbidden mansion, and he had also fallen asleep right after she nodded off. Hence, he wasn''t able to prepare the water, which he always had prepared because Aries had a habit of drinking water in the middle of the night.

    When he returned with a tray with a porcin jug and a ss on top of it, Abel smiled. Aries was still lying in the same position. She didn''t even move an inch.

    Abel walked over and ced the tray on top of the nightstand on her side of the bed, pouring her a ss, which he offered to her immediately.

    "Should I help you sit up?" he asked, but Aries already pushed herself to sit upzily.

    "I''m not crippled. Thank you," sheined, taking the ss of water that she chugged in one go.

    Abel''s brows rose when she handed the empty ss back to him, asking for another ss. Aries seemed to be very thirsty, so he poured her another ss and she drank it in one go. She had three sses of water before she thanked him again.

    Abel sat down on the edge of the bed, staring at her. "You were thirsty," he pointed out the obvious while shebed her hair through her fingers.

    "You haven''t even given me a ss since yesterday," sheined with a frown. "And you even drank my blood without telling me."

    "I did tell you, but you were drunk with pleasure and the only response I got was a moan." He shrugged.

    "You did?" she asked, and he nodded. "Wellбн"

    Aries scratched her head. Watching her try to recall cluelessly, he chuckled.

    "Sleep some more now," he said, nting his hand over the other side of herp.

    "What about you?"

    "I will."

    Aries clipped the hem of his robe, blinking adorably. Her eyes gleamed with a need for affection.

    "Then lie down with me," she proposed, tugging his robe slightly. "I''m already exhausted, though. So don''t mistake this as an invitation."

    Abel blinked, smirking. "How did you know I was thinking of pouncing on you?"

    "Goodness. Don''t forget, I am mortal and I can barely keep up with your sexual drive."

    "Haha. I''ll do my best." Abel assisted her to lie down, slipping under the quilt beside her.

    "Do your best to stop yourself, and not your best at making me say yes."

    He chuckled at her response, taking her into the safety of his embrace. Abel casually stroked her back until her breathing grew heavier, but he didn''t fall asleep. He simply listened to each of her breaths while counting her heartbeat. His mind wandered off to the encounter he had when he got her water just now.

 Chapter 610 I Never Had So Much Fun

    Minutes ago, when Abel got out of the room to get her a ss of water, he stopped at the mansion''s lobby. Looking up, he met Marse''s pair of bright crimson eyes on the second floor. She was leaning against the railings, holding a ss of red liquid, which he was certain was pure blood.

    "My dearest brother, I heard Ram is barren." Marse''s voice was sexy and pleasant in the ear. Her question would naturally anger anyone, but not Abel, as that was the truth.

    "And what is the purpose of this sudden interest, sister?" he asked, intrigued.

    "Well, because it seems you are forgetting something very important, brother," Marse smirked, cocking her head to the side. "Ram might be barren, but you''re not an ordinary man. Your blood had healing properties."

    Abel chuckled in delight. "Do not worry, she''ll be fine."

    "Be fineбн do you mean she won''t get pregnant because you are purposely not healing what is broken in her?" Marse quirked a brow, chuckling when he simply smiled at her as a response. "Ram will be disheartened, my brother dearest."

    "She told me the other day during our lessonбн she actually had a dream." She pushed herself away from the railing to sip on the winess. "That dreamбн is bing a mother of your child, but she believed that was impossible because she could no longer bear a child."

    Marse hissed in satisfaction, swirling the drink elegantly until the red fluid coated the transparent ss.

    "Poor her. She doesn''t even know bearing a child is not a problem if it''s with you." Her eyes fell on the man standing in the middle of the lobby. "But I understand. At the very least, I do not need to remind you to be very careful during your rounds of passion. It''ll be very heartbreaking to watch you bury your own child."

    The smile on Abel''s face slowly faded as his eyes slightly narrowed at her. There were already seven existing Grimsbanne at the current, and adding another man would be a problem for sure.

    "Mind your damn business next time, sister." Abel slowly turned to get Aries a ss of water; the real purpose of why he was in there in the first ce. However, his steps stopped once more at Marse''s next remarks.

    "You''ve grown weak, have you?" Marse simpered, watching him raise his head at her again. "Marse told me you can be quite cruel, but seeing you now, you''re not really that impressive."

    She straightened her back, smirking. "But I like this version more than the one I expected beforeing here. Anyway, since I sort of like you, my brother dear, and Ram too, I don''t want to make you overthink."

    "Most people who imed those words definitely nned to do just that."

    "Haha!" Marse shook her head mildly. "Brother, I did say the reason for Ram''s deteriorating health is that of her witch. I was sure of it, but sometimes, I couldn''t help but wonder if that was truly it orбн there''s another existence inside of her?"

    Marse smacked her lips and shrugged. "You and I would definitely know if she''s pregnant, but the more I think about it and look at Piglet, these things cross my mind. Just what sort of child will you have? I bet he''ll be very mischievous even before he is born. Like ying hide and seek with his father."

    "I don''t want to make you overthink. You''re the one who knows what''s going on behind closed doors. So, definitely, you had everything under control, right?" she added, smiling until her eyes were squinting. "Goodnight, brother. May you sleep peacefully tonight."<sub> </sub>

    Abel snapped his eyes, returning to the currentpse of lying beside Aries. Surely, Marse had her way with her nonsense and seeded in nting the seed of the matter deep in his head. He blinked ever so tenderly, gazing down at his wife in his embrace.

    Aries moaned slightly, squeezing herself into the warmth of his body. Abel pulled her waist closer, embracing her securely while stroking the curves of her back gently.

    ''A childбн'' Abel rested his chin on her head. ''Impossible.''

    Abel traced any sense of another life through her blood but had gotten nothing. However, he still couldn''t be sure. Aries was the protector of Maleficent''s powers, and Abel was a Grimsbanne. A life created by the two of themбн a seed ying hide and seek wouldn''t be a surprise.

    He had lived as a Grimsbanne for so long that he knew what sort of thing they could do. If Marse could run away from home while she was an infant, and Sunny could travel across the globe while carrying the king of vampires safelyбн thenбн What were the odds Marse''s theory could be reality?

    ''What would our child look like?'' Abel buried his face on top of her head, tightening his embrace on her. ''I should kill Marse tomorrow. She speaks so much nonsense already.''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    Marse chuckled with her lips closed, waltzing through the hallway after all the things she said to Abel. Her expression was theplete opposite of that of her brother''s, evidently pleased at the face he made at the thought of a child.

    "How dare he fuck without regard for a woman''s body?" she shook her head, stopping in front of the chamber. Marse held the ss to her side. Her other hand reached for the knob and pushed it open. As soon as she stepped inside the chambers, her lips curled up into a smirk. Her eyes fell on the middle-aged man lying motionless on the bed.

    "Your Majestyбн" she called, strutting inside and sitting down on the edge of the mattress. "You should''ve seen the look on Abel''s face when I told him his wife might be carrying his wretched seed. It was amazing!"

    Marseughed, slowly raising her feet on the bed as shey on her side. She propped her temple against her knuckles, eyes on the man on the brink of death.

    "Until now, I couldn''t understand your role in this ce. But well, me neither." Her eyelids drooped, smirking bitterly. "I heard Ram was here. I wonderбн how did you summon her?"

    "Things are getting interesting in this ce with the increasing number of missing reports." She smacked her lips, shifting her eyes at the window, filtering the moonlight. "The Empress will be selected soon, and thenбн the gathering of the night council. The only good thing about this ce is the blood bank."

    Marse''s eyes swirled with anticipation, grinning from ear to ear, setting her eyes back on her patient. Sunny was particrly fond of this man, the king on the maind.

    "Did you know some people from the maind visit this ce?" she cocked her head to the side. "Sunny killed бк ate them all. They would''ve rescued you if not for her. Haha. I have never had so much fun ever since I died the first time."

 Chapter 611 Can You Give Me Head?

    Days had passed uneventfully and peacefully. Aries had focused on the selection, making time with the princesses to avoid them from talking nonsense. Fortunately, Sunny, the "crown prince," and also the person in charge of the selection, had be more mischievous every passing day.

    The little bundle of pure joy бк or what she should be бк would constantly add suffering to all the candidates'' lives. One time she brought some wild dogs and let them run wild in the Hyacinth Pce. Good thing was no one got hurt, at least, not from the wild dogs, but somedies got injured for running away.

    Each day for the candidates grew more and more traumatizing as they run out of ideas about what sort of mischief would the ''crown prince'' had in store for them the next day.

    In the afternoon, Aries would spend time in her chambers with Marse. She had been sacrificing her siesta time to learn to control her innate powers. So far, her progress was slow but gradual, which was better than no progress at all.

    And by night, Aries would either sneak into the forbidden pce to spend quality time with the emperor. She, somehow, enjoyed giving him a surprise. There were nights Abel woulde into her room, or wait for her in the dark underground tunnel where he would romance with her as the echoes of her moans sounded louder in that ce.

    Aries overall considered it peaceful, getting used to the recurring events of their everyday lives. And she couldn''t ask for moreбн aside from her growing worry about her brother, the marquess'' well-being.

    Aries let out a shallow breath, stopping from sketching on the paper.

    "Something wrong?" Abel''s voice rang from her side, making her turn her head to him.

    They were currently in his room in the forbidden mansion, sitting around the round oak table where he was reviewing a few documents, while she was sketching new designs for her boutique or doing her assignments as a candidate for the empress. This was one of her favorite activities of the day; there was no forey or anything of the sort, but they simply enjoy each other''spany while working on something.

    "Still got no word from my brother?" she asked, worry swirling in her eyes.

    "Apparently, there''s still no word from them."

    Aries let out a deep exhale, making her shoulders rx. She snapped her eyes up when he scoot over, dragging his chair close to her while searching for her eyes.

    "I''m worried, Abel," she confessed. "It''s been over two weeks since he departed. Isn''t it strange to not hear a word from him?"

    "He never sends a word to me whenever he was out on a mission."

    "Butбн that was before." Aries reached for his hand and squeezed it. "He told me he would send a letter. Can you send reinforcement lest he needs it?"

    Abel kept his lips in a thin line and sighed. "I will ask Conan."

    "Please. I would really appreciate it."

    "The marquess is an annoying person, darling. Even if something goes wrong, he would surely find a way to survive. He didn''t die all these years. I don''t think he will allow death to take him, especially now that he had someone to go home to."<sub> </sub>

    Aries smiled subtly, looking back at the pair of bright crimson eyes that could send a chill down one''s spine but brought warmth to her heart. She nodded in agreement, releasing his hand as they resumed what they were doing.

    As she picked up her pencil to continue her sketch, Abel propped his jaw against his knuckles. The side of his lips was curled up subtly, studying her side profile. His eyes fell on her butterfly-like eyshes that fluttered beautifully. Her pointy nose looked a little sharper, but not as much as her refined, sharp jaw.

    His eyes slowly veered down to the side of her neck. Her pulse was beating underneath her soft and milky skin; she looked more and more alluring every passing day. It could be just the warm lights around the room that set the ambiance cozy, which matched well with her nightdress, and tousled hair that was tucked behind her ear, while the other side freely dangled on her other side.

    Abel felt warm just staring at his beloved wife. This had also be one of his favorite past times, onlying in second to their rounds of passion. They weren''t doing anything, honestly, but having her right beside him while reviewing some papers he had for the day or the next day was satisfactory.

    Abel quirked a brow when she frowned while keeping her eyes on the sketch. His eyes fell on her plump lips, which were just as red as cherries. She was biting the end of the pencil as she pondered about something, and somehow, he felt the increasing tension on his thing between his thigh.

    "Darling," his voice after the long silence caused her to flinch. He smirked as she looked back at him. Her brows were elevated.

    Aries blinked, looking almost innocent. "Hmm?"

    "Your mouth looks cute." He pressed his thumb on the side of her lips, smiling brightly. "Can you give me heads?"

    "What?" Aries nearly choke on her own breath, thinking his request was too random for her. But she shouldn''t be surprised after being with him for over a year now.

    "Instead of nibbling on that pencil." Abel wiggled his brows yfully. "I''m getting envious of it."

    Aries blinked twice, studying his countenance to find the slightest trace of jest. He was serious, she thought, after several seconds.

    "Now?" she asked, and he nodded.

    "Now," he said, tugging her pinky mildly. "Come."

    Aries bit her inner lower lip while massaging her nape. It was not like she hadn''t done it before, but that wasn''t deliberate. It just happened in the heat of the moment whenever they were already doing it. Hence, it was a little awkward.

    "You are outrageous," she mumbled, reluctantly getting up from her seat to go under the table. However, just as she stood up, Abel pulled her wrist down and yanked her onto hisp. She clutched his shoulders on instinct, eyes shaking as they went wide.

    "Outrageous is asking you for a literal head." Abel pinched her chin, staring at her red plump lips that were just too appealing not to bite. "I don''t think I''d get anything done if you keep being so beautiful."

    <strong>''I am the one who gets nothing done!''</strong> was what she wanted to tell him, but her tongue rolled back when he sealed her lips with his lips, slipping his tongue that stirred inside her mouth. Aries could only close her eyes and enjoy the moment, knowing her husband was one big pervert.

 Chapter 612 Charity

    One of the duties the candidates had been focusing on aside from learning the strict imperial pce rules was maintaining the food storage in each small town within the empire. It was up to the candidates how they would put the division on the food, their deal with the people for harvest, and how they would take care of it and its people.

    At first, everyone handled food storage for small districts, so even if the candidates failed, the chief supply (the empire) could support its people to prevent a shortage of food. The first phase immediately eliminated the candidates in half, sending thedies back to their homes.

    As thepetition continued, the number of candidates gradually decreased. Some forfeited their participation to support another candidate, and the empire had allowed it. While others deliberately surrendered because they couldn''t handle Sunny''s mischief.

    Currently, there were only three candidates left: Aries, Lady Ivory Norwood, and Princess Agnes. The other candidates, although they dropped from thepetition, were granted to stay in the Hyacinth Pce as the empire believed whoever would be the empress would need capabledies by her side.

    Lady Norwood had kept Lady Julienne and a fewdies asckeys. Princess Agnes only kept Lady Fatima Wendell as her handmaiden. Meanwhile, Aries couldn''t choose between Veronika, Suzanne, and Sybil. Hence, she kept the three to assist her in handling the west district food storage while the other two official candidates бк Lady Ivory handled the east and Princess Agnes the south.

    "Thepetition ising to an end and they would soon be announced who handled the storage well." Suzanne pped to get the attention of thedies, who were currently traveling to the west district to hand over relief. The three бк Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika бк came to assist Aries''s project as winter approached, and Aries wanted to give out nkets and clothes to keep the people warm.

    "I''m certain Lady Danie will win!" Sybil intoned excitedly, sitting beside Suzanne. Aries and Veronika were sitting across from them. "This is the third time you''re going to visit the west district and everyone had shown solid support."

    "I could swear there won''t be any problem in your coronation," Veronika chimed with a warm smile, proud of how amazing Aries handled the matters diligently.

    Aries had always said it was because she was once been a crown princess and had handled such affairs in the past. They took it as her time in the Maganti Empire, but Aries meant it as a princess in Rikhill. She didn''t want to rify this matter, though. There was no need for that.

    "Do not jest, just yet." Aries chuckled at the three enthusiasticdies. "Princess Agnes and Lady Ivory had shown significant results. I heard the East and South districts had been in a better state, and the empire didn''t need to send a reinforcement, as they could sustain themselves throughout the winter."

    "Lady Danie is too humble." Suzanne shook her head while smiling warmly. "Even the men in the inner pce had shown admiration for your proposition in each royal court you had attended. I heard the emperor was pleased."

    "More than the praise and recognition, I would rather focus on the well-being of those under my jurisdiction," Aries expressed, hinting at them they should change the subject.

    Every time the three of them would sing praises about her, Aries couldn''t help but feel a little ufortable. They speak with so much certainty that Aries would win, and somehow, it felt strange. Not that she couldn''t feel their sincerity, but because she felt like cheating the rest of the candidates.

    "That''s right. Lady Danie might feel a little ufortable. This is the crucial time for the candidates." Veronika nodded, shing Aries a reassuring smile before setting her eyes on thedies across from them. "Let''s just focus on giving out relief to the citizen. The cold season hade earlier than it should have. I could imagine the pain of those who couldn''t afford to warm themselves in the night."<sub> </sub>

    "Princess Veronika has a point." Suzanne rocked her head and cast Sybil a knowing look. "Let''s have fun while we''re at it."

    "Mhm!" Sybil nodded, holding her fist up.

    The threedies chatted on their way to the west district, touching upon a variety of topics. They shared quite a fair amount ofughter and a bit of gossip, as Suzanne had held a lot of grudges against otherckeys of the official candidates. Those Suzanne had problems with mostly moved under Lady Ivory; Princess Agnes and her handmaiden, Fatima Wendell, couldn''t be bothered.

    Chatting took away their boredom as they reached their destination not long after. Aries''s carriage was escorted by a small unit of elite royal knights to keep her and thedies safe. When they reached the za of the small district town, the townsfolk were already waiting for them.

    Aries furrowed her brows, holding Roman''s hand as she hitched outside the carriage. Roman was the leader of her escorts while Climaco also joined them as Aries''s personal knight.

    "What''s going on?" asked Aries to the nobleman, who weed her arrival, looking around at the people gathered in the za for relief. "Why are they gathered here?"

    "Mydy, they were waiting for you."

    "I know that. However, the weather is rather cold. You should''ve handed them soup and clothes without waiting for me." Aries frowned, assuming these people had been in here since morning. "Hasten. Tell the knights to give them nkets and hot soups to warm them up. Prioritize the children and the elderly."

    ? "Yes, mydy." Roman bowed, casting the nobleman a sharp re before shouting the orders to the knight so they could execute it properly and ordingly.

    Thedies also helped Aries out as they served the people food and clothing. This had been the third time Aries had been in this ce, and the people already felt familiar with her. They epted the relief with a warm smile.

    While Aries handed the children and elderly soups and clothes to warm them, their warm smiles and sincere words of gratitude warm her heart. As the za felt warmer and warmer with the presence of Aries бк their future empress, as everyone believed бк little did they know, a figure was standing in a narrow alley watching everything unfold silently.

    The person was wearing a thick cloak and a hood over the head. The person''s lips curled up into an amused smirk, keeping those shining dark eyes on one particr figure. Aries.

 Chapter 613 Surprise

    <strong>[ Imperial Pce ]</strong>

    Conan was running through the hallway in a hurry, panting for air, when he mmed the door open. His action, although abrupt, didn''t startle the emperor.

    Sitting behind therge desk to amodate the mountains of documents, Abel slowly raised his head to the door. He tilted his head to the side, noticing Conan''s ashenplexion.

    "Bad news?" he asked, arching a brow.

    "Your Majesty." Conan cleared his throat and hurriedly approached the desk, nting both his hands on the surface of the desk. "Morro returned."

    Conan''s shaking voice tickled a part of Abel''s heart. His gut feeling told him to prepare for what his vassal hadn''t said yet.

    "And the Marquess?" Abel asked, observing the sudden fear that flickered across Conan''s eyes. Right then and there, Abel had already guessed what Conan was about to say.

    "There was an ambush. The reinforcement Your Majesty had sent met Morro on their way. They rushed to help the Marquess while Morro flew all the way here to report what happened," Conan summarized as he also hadn''t gotten any detailed report, rushing to the emperor''s chancery upon hearing the news.

    Abel remained silent. His expression turned solemn, holding his hand on top of the desk.

    "Did they find Isaiah?" he asked, and Conan just shook his head.

    "Morro didn''t say such a thing. He was injured, so I told him to get treated first."

    "Lead me to Morro and prepare my shadow knights." Abel pushed himself ever so slowly. "Do not let anyone hear about this."

    "Yes." Conan bowed and then let out another sharp breath. "Your Majesty, about Lady Ariesбн"

    "Tell her to return at once."

    "But бк"

    "My wifeбн needs to be promptly notified."

    Conan pressed his lips into a thin line. Reluctance flickered across his shaking eyes, but he still bowed. "Yes, Your Majesty."

    "Then lead the way."

    "This way."

    With that being said, Conan led Abel to the infirmary where Morro was getting treated. Much to Abel''s dismay, Morro''s injuries weren''t any simple injuries. They were fatal, and if not for Morro''s years of experience, he wouldn''t have reached the empire.

    As Abel stayed inside the infirmary, waiting for Morro to regain consciousness, Conan executed the emperor''s orders efficiently. He first sent a word to Aries, who was currently in the west district, to give out relief.

    After that, Conan gathered another knight squad that was all part of the emperor''s shadow knights. The emperor''s shadow knights were the elites of the elites, and for Abel to deploy them, only meant the emperor needed this rescue to be faultless. The emperor would''ve gone by himself, but if Abel left now, the word woulde out.

    However, when Abel and Conan had already thought of the worst, another surprise woulde their way just an hourter.<sub> </sub>

    Abel and Conan gazed at the person by the door, looking at him from head to toe. Conan had already sent the knights away бк not wasting a breath because every passing second was important. Now, they were simply talking in the infirmary while waiting for Morro to regain consciousness until a loud knock on the door interrupted their conversation.

    When the door creaked open, Conan''s pupils dted while Abel furrowed his brows.

    "I was told to go straight in the infirmary to meet Your Majesty," Isaiah exined, tilting his head down slightly. "I have returned after finishing Your Majesty''s order."

    "Youбн" Isaiah furrowed his brows when Conan called with a shaking voice, pointing a finger at him. "... what are you doing here?"

    Isaiah tilted his head to the side. "Did something happen?"

    "Where have you been, Isaiah?" asked Abel. On the surface, the emperor kept his calm demeanor, but inside, his head was filled with questions.

    "I went to execute His Majesty''s orders."

    "Yes, but why did you just arrive now?" Conan gasped.

    "I was on my way to the empire when I heard a rumor. I made a detour to confirm whether this rumor had anything to do with the situation in the Heart''s Kingdom," Isaiah exined monotonously. "There''s nothing amiss about the Heart''s Kingdom, aside from it following the reversal of time. However, I found strange movements in another Kingdom, and some people from the maind scattered around the Haimirich Empire."

    Abel and Conan remained silent, looking at each other before setting their eyes back on Isaiah. Since Morro and Isaiah parted halfway, Morro didn''t know what happened to Isaiah. So, when Morro checked the area where he parted ways with Isaiah and didn''t see the man, they assumed something happened.

    Yet, knowing Isaiah, who would usually go away for several months without a word, Abel gave a grace period. Honestly, the grace period would have been a lot longer, if not for Conan nagging the emperor. Normally, Conan wouldn''t care, but because of the current state of affairs, he allowed his impatience to get the better of him.

    Now, they sent the Marquess, Dexter, to search for Isaiah, only for him to fall in danger and for Isaiah to return after a detour.

    "Did something happen, Your Majesty?" asked Isaiah, seeing theplicated look across their faces.

    "Yes," Conan answered with a sharp breath. "We sent the Marquess to search for you, but they were met with an ambush. Morro managed to return, but as you can see, he was fatally injured. We''re still waiting for him to regain his consciousness."

    Isaiah was confused. "Why would you send the Marquess to search for me?" бк that was out of Abel and Conan''s character.

    "Iбн" Conan trailed off, lowering his eyes while balling his hand into a tight fist. "... it''s my fault. Lady Aries will kill me."

    "Since you''re already hereбн I have another mission for you, Isaiah." Unlike Conan, Abel remained calm. "Make sure the Marquess returns alive and in one piece."

    Abel slowly stood from the chair, facing Isaiah squarely. "Seeing Morro''s situation, the enemies are capable people. I''ll meet you there tonight."

    ? Despite the brief exnation from them, Isaiah got the gist of the crisis. He wanted to raise more questions, but this wasn''t the time for that.

    "I''ll hasten at once." Isaiah bowed; he didn''t mind going out on a mission the moment he returned. He then nced at Morro lying on the bed and understood the reason Abel nned to go himself once the night fell.

    For Morro to be in such a state, whoever ambushed the Marquess'' group were capable people.

    Dexter was in danger.

 Chapter 614 A Brothers Last Words

    <strong>[ West District ]</strong>

    Aries rubbed a child''s hand gently, keeping the child''s little hands in between hers. She blew a breath on them, smiling at the child, whom she covered with a scarf.

    "Do you still feel cold?" asked Aries to the child sitting on the bench in the za.

    The child shook her head and grinned back. "Mydy''s hands are warm. I feel warm now."

    "That''s good then. Finish your soup before it runs cold. I''ll get you a pair of gloves." Aries ruffled the child''s hair and shed the elderly and some women, who were sitting beside the child, a smile. They smiled warmly back at her, hearing them tell her to rest.

    Aries had been busy helping everyone and warming them up, making sure every single one of them was being given equal service and attention. She would converse with the elderly from time to time and then y with the children in between.

    Some townsfolk бк men and women бк were able to help the knights and thedies. Because of their united efforts, everyone maintained warmth. The people had also heard the nobleman, who was in charge of the district, get scolded by the chief knight all because they didn''t start giving relief until Aries and her entourage came.

    The people weren''t particrly happy for the nobleman, nor did they pity him. They were just d that the Lady of the House Vandran, and also a candidate for the position of the empress, made time to see everyone. Normally, the people in charge would only prepare for the cold season food reliefs, but since the west district was now under Aries''s jurisdiction, they didn''t have to worry about warm clothes.

    Thedy of the House Vandran worried not only about her people''s stomachs but also considered how to keep everyone warm and able to work for a living in the winter.

    "Mydy." Aries turned her attention to her side when Roman''s voice caressed her ears. "Can I have a word?"

    Aries furrowed her brows, noticing the solemness in his eyes, but didn''t hurry. She faced thedies бк Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika бк who were resting after helping her.

    "You should warm yourself up," Aries said, shing them a warm smile.

    "Do not worry about us, mydy," Suzanne replied with the same kind smile, while Sybil approached Aries and held her hands.

    "Mydy." Sybil looked up at Aries worriedly. "Everyone is now warm, but your hands are freezing."

    Aries chuckled, holding Sybil''s hands, which were wearing gloves. "I feel very warm. Do not worry, I have prepared gloves for myself."

    "Please wear them. I''m certain everyone will be worried if you fell ill," Veronika chimed in, noticing that Aries, although candidly enjoyed helping others, always forgets to take care of herself. It was worrying at times.

    "Yesбн" Aries let out a shallow breath, as the three of them were bing more and more like her guards. "Anyway, I''ll have a word with the captain. Please keep yourself warm."

    "Yes, mydy. Do not worry about us."

    With that being said, Aries cast Roman a look. She nodded at him, following him to the corner where there were crates of extra nkets to be stored in the storage.

    "Mydy."

    Her brows knitted as her slight smile faded, seeing the sudden change in Roman''s countenance.

    "Captain, your face tells me what you are about to say is terrible news," she expressed with a soft voice. "What is it?"

    Roman gulped, preparing his heart to break the news to her. "A word came from the imperial pce. You are being ordered to return at once."<sub> </sub>

    "So suddenly?" Aries tilted her head to the side. "His Majesty knew about my arrangements today."

    "Yes, but you need to return to the empire at once."

    "Why? Did something happen?" Aries asked, and when Roman lowered his eyes, she cut the gap between them. "Rome, what happened that I am being summoned back to the imperial pce?"

    Roman couldn''t hide the reluctance in his eyes. "Morro had returned."

    "Morro? The raven?"

    "Yes бк I mean, no. Morro is someone who is a part of the marquess''s group. He was fatally injured, and he was still unconscious. Therefore, they still hadn''t known a lot of details yet."

    "What about my brother?" she inquired, her heart thudding. "Was my brother alright?"

    "The Marquessбн hadn''t returned yet. His Majesty had already sent reinforcement to help the Marquess. That''s all we know for now, mydy."

    Aries felt her knees turn soft as tofu, clinging to the stacked crates to keep herself from falling. Roman also held her elbows when she stumbled back. The abrupt noises they made caught the attention of the people nearby, furrowing their brows, seeing that Aries was distraught.

    "Mydy, are you alright?" Veronika rushed to them, and her eyes popped open upon catching Aries''s ashenplexion. "Mydy, what happened?"

    Aries was clutching Roman''s arms while shaking her head mildly. She didn''t purposely ignore Veronika as she looked up at Roman, gripping his sleeve even tighter.

    "Take meбн back," came out a shaking voice. "I need to go with them."

    Roman''s jaw tightened as Aries''s eyes shook, tears coating her eyes that gave it a desperate luster. He cast Veronika a look, and despite not saying anything, Veronika seemed to have understood Aries had to leave.

    "Do not worry about anything," Veronika reassured. "We''ll stay for Lady Danie. Please take care of her."

    "Thank you, Your Highness."

    With that being said, Roman assisted Aries to the carriage. Thetter couldn''t bid everyone a proper farewell, but Roman briefed the knights to look after the princesses, while the princesses told the people Aries had to leave because of an emergency.

    Aries insisted on going by Roman''s horse to return to the pce quickly. Roman agreed with her after her prolonged insistence, going by his steed, and galloped their way back to the pce. No matter how fast they were, the anxiety in her heart significantly increased with the thought of Dexter''s well-being.

    ''He is my familyбн'' she thought, staring sharply ahead. ''Pleaseбн do not take another family of mine. Keep him safe.''

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> within the forest clearing in the thick forest in anotherndбн

    Dexter was hanging his head low. Blood covered the side of his head, holding onto his sword that was impaled on the ground. He breathed out a jagged breath, snapping his exhausted eyes up, only to see multiple figures surrounding him.

    <strong>''Daniбн'' </strong>he thought, seeing that the people who were surrounding him charged toward him with their weapons all at once. "... I''mбн sorry."

 Chapter 615 Gustavs Promise

    "Let me go with you, Abel."

    Aries held Abel''s hands tightly. Her eyes were shaking with a thinyer of fluid coating them, giving those pair of olives a different luster and brilliance. She went straight to the forbidden mansion upon her arrival in the imperial pce, only to beg Abel to let here with him because the reinforcement already left before she had arrived.

    "Please, Abel." Her voice cracked when silence was the answer she got from him. "Allow me to help."

    "Darling." Abel let out a shallow breath, twirling his fingers until he was holding her hands. "I think you should stay in here."

    "Why?" she raised her voice slightly out of panic. "Is it because you think it''s dangerous and you might not be able to protect me?"

    Anger swirled in her eyes and chest.

    "I... don''t need your protection if that is what you are so concerned about, Abel," she said through her gritted teeth. "Even if you don''t allow me, I will leave on my own."

    "What are you going to do once you leave this ce?" he asked calmly, squeezing her hands mildly. "Darling, I think you should be left behind not because it was dangerous, but because I don''t want yougging everyone behind."

    Abel narrowed his eyes slightly as they turned sharper. "I am well aware you are a capable witch, darling. You might''ve gotten a little bit of control over your witch, but it is still not enough forbat. The agenda is to rescue the Marquess if that is what he needs, and emotions... we do not need that."

    Aries bit her lower lip as her eyes stung. Of course, she knew that, but she would die of worry if she stayed behind.

    "I will bring him back." Abel leaned his face closer, nodding at her reassuringly. "Alive."

    "Abel..." her lips quivered as tears shone in her eyes. "I... I don''t want to lose another family. My heart wouldn''t be able to take it if something happens to him."

    "I know." His eyes softened, seeing how desperate and scared Aries was.

    Ever since she stepped foot in this empire, Aries rarely showed deep fear. He didn''t know if her hellish past was a good thing, but it definitely made her into a strong and bravedy. But right now, she was scared бк terrified.

    "Everything will be fine." Abel carefully pulled her into his embrace, nting his hand on the back of her head. "I promise and I never broke my promises."

    Aries clutched his chest, keeping her lips in a tight, thin sh. She nodded, her breathing suspending.

    "I''ll wait..." she whispered, almost like she was begging him to bring her good news. "Please... bring him back."

    Abel tightened his embrace to calm her trembling body, resting his chin on the top of her head. As he did, he snapped his eyes up to the people present in the great hall of the forbidden mansion. Sunny and Marse were standing in the distance, looking back at him with utter solemnness.

    "Fine." Marse let out a huff, flipping her hair offhandedly. "I''m going."

    She then gazed down at Sunny and pointed at her. "Don''t rename this empire again. And you know what to do while we''re away."

    "Pretty Grandma, don''t die." Sunny blinked adorably. "I will look after my grandmama, so you don''t have to worry."<sub> </sub>

    "Good girl." Marse ruffled Sunny''s hair mildly before looking back in Abel''s direction. She tipped her head to the side, signaling to him they should depart since the night had already fallen.

    Abel blinked and held Aries''s shoulders, pushing her slightly.

    "Sunny will be with you, darling," he said. "Conan will also stay behind."

    "Please take care." Aries pursed her lips and then looked back at Marse. "Master, please don''t let harm befell my brother."

    "Don''t mention it. I still need you, and thest thing I want is something disrupting your progress." Marse waved dismissively, turning on her heel, and sauntered off nonchntly. "Let''s go, brother, and save your insufferable brother-inw."

    Abel ignored Marse and turned to Aries.

    "Calm down. We will be quick," he said, cupping her face mildly. Abel lowered his head and nted a kiss on her forehead. His action, somehow, put her heart at slight ease.

    He didn''t idle for too long as he followed Marse''s tracks, leaving Aries and Sunny in the great hall of the forbidden mansion. As Abel walked away, his soft expression turned sharp, just like how the nonchnce stered on Marse''s face disappeared when no one was looking.

    When Marse and Abel reached the courtyard, Gustav, the head butler of the House Vandran, and also Sunny''s temporary butler, was waiting for them. Gustav bowed upon seeing their approaching figures, straightening his back when the two stood at arm''s length.

    "Is he still alive?" asked Abel without beating around the bush. Gustav had a blood link with Dexter, and because of that, Gustav would know if Dexter was alive or dead.

    Gustav raised his eyes and was met with a pair of fiery crimson eyes. "I can still feel his life force, albeit faint, Your Majesty. The Marquess is slowly bleeding out."

    "I seeбн" Abel let out another sharp breath, snapping his eyes at his sister.

    "I know! You don''t have to keep looking at me like that. My blood is useless, but if it will help, then good." Marse stopped herself from rolling her eyes, as Abel kept looking at her as if reminding her of what she needed to do. It was not less annoying than him nagging her verbally.

    "Is heing?" she asked, shifting the attention from her to Gustav. Marse arched a brow, cocking her head to the side. "He looks like someone who is about to beg us to go with us."

    "I won''t stop him if he wants to, but I highly doubt he will." Abel turned, looking away from the two of them.

    "I promised him to protect his sister," said Gustav in a somber tone. "He will be enraged to know I went against his will because I want to save him."

    "Hahбн I don''t know what to feel about your loyalty," Marsemented and nearly jolted when a loud p of wings resounded in her ears, followed by a strong gust of wind. Before she could even speak a word, the ground underneath Abel''s feet made a hollow hole before he flew away like a bolt of lightning.

    "Goodnessбн I hate him," she murmured before dark mist surrounded her.

    The next thing Gustav had seen was her clothes falling to the ground while feathers floated in the air. Gustav blinked and caught a ck raven flying away in the same direction Abel went to.

 Chapter 616 Sunnys Butler

    Sunny had been watching Aries pace back and forth from the divan inside one of the sitting rooms in the forbidden mansion. She was munching her snacks she had taken from the inner pce to kill time, but watching Aries nervously walk around in circles was making her dizzy.

    "Grandmama, you''re making Sunny dizzy," Sunny voiced out after another minute of watching Aries.

    Aries halted, looking back at the little girl sitting on the long divan. She let out a sharp breath, marched towards Sunny, and plopped her butt down beside the little girl.

    "I feel like I''ll lose my mind, Sunny," Aries expressed with a deep breath, running her fingers through her hair. "How can this happen? I gave him a trinket that would protect him. He should be fine."

    "Grandmama, are you not confident with your own spell?" asked Sunny out of in curiosity.

    "Iбн" Aries looked back at the little girl, eyes full of bitterness and uncertainty. "... Marse said it would be effective."

    "Then, rest assured."

    "But бк"

    "Grandmama, beating yourself will help no one." Sunny cut her off, holding Aries''s gaze with clear resolve in her doe eyes. "If your family is having a hard time, the only thing you can help them with is to make sure you control your emotions and mind and not be a part of their burden. Get yourself together, so when theye, you can wee them with a smile."

    Aries held her breath as Sunny sounded like scolding her. Sunny''s words didn''t fit a three-year-old girl, but the look in her eyes told Aries she had a full understanding of her remarks. Considering Sunny came into the empire all alone, without any guidance from the adults, it would be silly to always think she was as innocent as she appeared to be.

    "How can I do that?" Aries''s voice shook, forgetting the age difference and sumbing to helplessness. "What if it''s their dead body that I would have to wee back? Sunny, the marquess, might not share the same blood as I do, but in my heart, he is the only existing brother I have. I can''t afford to lose another family."

    Sunny let out a shallow breath. "Lifeбн is full of twists and turns. Not because you don''t want things to happen, it will not happen."

    "Are you saying I should prepare for the worst?"

    "Yes, you should, but hold on to the sliver of hope the worst won''t happen." Sunny slowly looked away, looking down at her snacks. "Just like Sunny, pray that those who were not with us will stay safe and reunite with us."

    "Sunny is also scared that watching my mama and papa leave our house will be thest time I will see them," she continued in a somber mood,pletely different from her usual bearing. "But Sunny trusts her mama and papa, and I know they will want Sunny to not worry. So Sunny chooses to have fun with my pretty grandma and handsome grandpa, and all the uncles in here, so Sunny won''t feel sad anymore."

    Aries bit her inner lower lips, ashamed that she was confiding in this little girl. Sunny might''ve always been so bubbly and mischievous, but surely, this little girl had many worries that weren''t suited for a little girl to carry. And yet, Sunny never showed her weakness to anyone. If anything, people were forced to walk on eggshells around her lest they catch her eyes.

    "Thank you." Aries hugged herself as she slightly calmed down after a few exchanges with Sunny. "And I''m sorry. I know I am the adult, but I needed your help to get a grip."

    "It''s fine. Age is just a numberбн that''s what my papa always tells my mama whenever someone brings up their age difference."

    Aries chuckled and cast Sunny a look. "I have a vast age difference with your grandpa as well."<sub> </sub>

    ? "He''s ancient."

    "I know. He''s older than my ancestor." Aries''s eyes softened, turning to the window. "But I think you are right. Age is just a number and not an indicator of maturity."

    "Do not be discouraged. I am a Grimsbanne and I have already developed critical thinking even before I learned how to speak."

    Aries smiled at Sunny and didn''t question the little girl''s im. Sunny was too mature for her age, and sometimes, just like right now, Aries couldn''t help but doubt Sunny was not being truthful about her age. But well, with everything that had happened to her, Aries was aware questioning things just because they sounded ridiculous was stupid.

    "By the way, grandmama." Sunny cleared her throat, pausing as she waited for Aries to give her her full attention. "What does Maleficent feels like?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Grandma Marse said you hold Maleficent powers, so I''m curious."

    "Well, it feelsбн nothing much," Aries answered with a bit of uncertainty. "It was a little strange, honestly. Whenever I use witchcraft, I feel a bitter aftertaste in my mouth. It''s like drinking poisoned tea, but I''m already used to the taste by now."

    Aries cocked her head to the side, focusing on this conversation as it somehow soothed the restlessness in her heart.

    "Why are you curious about my witch?" she asked out of in curiosity. "Do you want to see me use it?"

    Sunny shook her head mildly. "It''s just that I know someone who wields a dark spear."

    "A dark spear?"

    "Mhm. The weapon is called Maleficent," Sunny said. "But that dark spear cannot be wielded just by anyone because it is a double-edged sword. Wielding it without proper knowledge of it might end tragically. It can consume its holder."

    "Hahбн" Aries furrowed her brows, looking at Sunny incredulously. "It sounds like a dangerous weapon."

    "Mister Fabian is the only person who can have full control of it." The corner of Sunny''s lips stretched from ear to ear until her teeth were showing. "Mister Fabian is our family''s butler, but he''s really cool. I wonder if Grandmama''s witch and his Maleficent had some sort of connection."

    Aries tilted her head to the side, pondering about Sunny''s remarks, but couldn''t think of anything useful. However, some parts were automatically etched in her mind. For instance, having proper knowledge of her witch to control it since her spells could go out of hand if Aries used more mana than she could control.

    "He sounds like an interesting man." Aries smiled subtly. "It''ll be nice to meet Sunny''s parents and this holder of Maleficent."

    Sunny giggled almost evilly. "You might think otherwise once you meet him."

 Chapter 617 [Bonus Chapter] Breaking The News To Her

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    Dexter was lying motionless on the ground. His vision was blurry, but he kept his focus on the trinket that was thrown away. He crawled his hand, trying to reach the trinket Aries gave him, telling him it would protect him.

    But with his current state, bleeding heavily after fighting multiple people nonstop, the thought of this protection didn''t cross his mind. He just didn''t want to lose the gift he got from his sister. However, as Dexter tried to reach it, he caught a pair of dirty shoes that seemed to have stepped into a shallow pool of blood.

    ''No,'' he whispered, seeing the figure squat down to pick up the trinket. ''That''s mine.''

    ? Dexter felt the person''s gaze on him. He narrowed his eyes as he looked at the person, but all he saw was the person''s smile that gave off this slight annoyance in his weakening heart.

    "I''m taking this thingбн that called for me," a man''s voice resounded in Dexter''s ears and his next words sounded distant. "Poor thingбн"

    Dexter knew the man had said more, but his consciousness slowly slipped from his grip. He had been fighting, and after fending for himself, Dexter couldn''t fight any longer. However, just when he thought they would strike him and give him the finishing blow, silence just followed.

    That was what was happening just a minute before the person took that trinket.

    Darkness enveloped Dexter like it was an old friend embracing him after getting reunited. As Dexter sank deeper and deeper into the silence, he heard an unfamiliar voice whispering, ''Maleficent,'' before there was nothing but utter silence.

    Hours had gone by before a group of knights appeared in the forest clearing. Under the faint light from the moon piercing through the thick clouds, the knights had to stop as they looked at the clearing with horror.

    Piles of bodies and limbs were scattered around. Blood had tainted the grass red. The stench of blood and death dominated the air, which was the reason the knights headed to this forest clearing instead of searching for the Marquess in this thick forest.

    Uncertain of what they would do, the knights checked the surroundings and the corpses to see if Dexter was one of them. The clearing was vast and, considering the number of people scattered on the ground, it wasn''t easy for them to find Dexter without going through each and every one of them.

    Even when Isaiah and the shadow knights arrived hourster, the knights hadn''t found Dexter. Seeing the scene, Isaiah had to stop for a moment to absorb the bloody and gory sight of the forest clearing. It didn''t look like an aftermath of a war, but more like it was a massacre.

    A knight came running to Isaiah''s side, bowing, and reporting the current situation. Much to Isaiah''s dismay, the knight told him they hadn''t found Dexter, as there were countless bodies to check. The severed limbs and the state of other people''s mangled faces weren''t helping them. The only constion they got was they identified some knights who went with the Marquess, confirming a fight broke out between these unknown forces and the marquess''s group.

    "Continue the search!" Isaiah ordered, his voice echoing across the clearing.

    "Yes, Your Grace."

    Isaiah then nced back, nodding at the shadow knights. Even without saying a word, the shadow knights search elsewhere, assuming Dexter managed to get away and is just around the area. Isaiah also joined the search, and with everyone''s efforts, they soon found a person lying motionless just around the area.

    When Isaiah flipped the man to see his face, his pupils dted as he held his breath. It was the Marquess, and studying Dexter''s current state, he seemed to have crawled his way since his limbs were barely intact. Whoever had done this to the marquess surely took their time to torture Dexter. It was a miracle they left Dexter alive, or they probably left him to die a slow and painful death.

    In a hurry, Isaiah ordered his men, who specialize in treating fatal injuries, to treat Dexter without wasting a breath. Another hour had passed before Abel and Marse arrived. The second those two did, they immediately heard what happened.<sub> </sub>

    However, Abel and Marse didn''t need to hear the reports because the forest clearing was enough for them to know whoever killed these people was a bloodthirsty monster anyone should look out for.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>[ Haimirich Empire: Forbidden Mansion ]</strong>

    When the door of Sunny''s chambers opened, revealing Conan, Aries immediately rushed to him. Sunny was still sleeping on the bed, but Aries couldn''t sleep and had been praying all night, hoping to hear the good news.

    "Sir Conan, any word from Abel?" she asked without beating around the bush, raising her brows, her breathing suspending. "Did they find my brother?"

    Conan pressed his lips, studying her shaking eyes.

    "Yes. They were already on their way back," he breathed out with a heavy heart and felt this pang in his chest when Aries heaved a sigh of relief.

    Aries smiled and patted her chest as if an entire pipe was pulled out of her throat. Her relief, however, was short-lived when she raised her eyes back to him again. Conan seemed unhappy, looking at her apologetically.

    Seeing this, her heart sank as fear crawled under her skin and crept into her heart. Her mouth opened and closed, but her voice wouldn''te out. Aries didn''t have the heart to ask him, knowing whatever information Conan was holding back would devastate her.

    "My brotherбн" her lips quivered as tears shone in her eyes, clutching his chest with a trembling hand. "... is he alive?"

    Conan let out another shallow breath, gulping the tension in his throat. He hated to break this news to her, but if not him, who else would tell her?

    "He is," he said under his breath.

    "But?"

    "Butбн he inflicted major injuries. The Marquess is hovering between life and deathбн" the rest of Conan''s words drifted past her ears as Aries wobbled like a withering leaf, unable to keep her ground.

    Aries copsed on the floor weakly, holding at the hemline of Conan''s suit. She hung her head low, tearsnding on the floor. All Conan could do was gaze down at her while Sunny had already woken up, sitting up on the bed, eyes on Aries.

    Aries cried, but the excruciating pain in her chest deterred her from making the slightest sound. And yet, Conan and Sunny understood that silent scream.

    "I''mбн sorry, Lady Aries," Conan expressed with a heavy heart, making her cover her mouth while her other hand clutched the hemline of his clothes as if once she let go, the floor would devour her entire body and keep her there.

 Chapter 618 [Bonus Chapter]I Will Become A God Or The Devil If I Must

    Days had gone by in a blur as Aries waited for their return. Since Dexter was fatally injured, they didn''t want to move his body and strain him. Aries understood this decision, so she patiently waited for them.

    During these past several days, she had missed many priormitments and just stayed inside the forbidden mansion, spending her days standing in front of the window, waiting.

    Thanks to Gertrude and Gustav, Aries''s constant visitors: Suzanne, Sybil, and Veronika didn''t find out that Aries wasn''t in the Hyacinth Pce all along. They told everyone Aries fell ill, and thus, she couldn''t attend to her scheduled appointments.

    During this time, Sunny and Conan could only apany her in silence. Most of the time, it was Sunny who would spend the day in the same room as Aries. They didn''t bother her, respecting Aries''s silence. They were simply d Aries didn''t snap and managed to get a hold of herself; it was thanks to Sunny and her previous advice.

    When the people Aries had been waiting for finally arrived in the imperial pce and kept Dexter in the forbidden mansion, since it was the safest ce in the imperial pce, Aries hurriedly rushed to the room they had kept Dexter. To her surprise, Isaiah returned with them and he returned without a scratch on him.

    "What are you doing here?" Aries rushed to Isaiah and grabbed thepels of his suit.

    Isaiah was just standing outside the room. The door was wide open, and the people inside gazed at Aries and Isaiah just right outside the room.

    "Mydy бк"

    "Howe you''re back without a single scratch on you?!" Aries cut him off, tugging Isaiah''s clothes aggressively. "He went away to search for you, and if possible, help you if you needed it. Howe you''re safe while my brother was fatally injured?!"

    Isaiah let out a shallow breath, staring back at those pair of fiery eyes ring at him. He nced to his left, his gaze instantly fell on Conan. It seemed Conan didn''t tell Aries about the mimunication, but he couldn''t me Conan as it would only add to Aries''s anxiety.

    "Darling,e inside." Aries heard Abel''s calm voice from within the chambers, but she ignored it. "I''ll fill you in with the detailsбн including why Isaiah is here."

    Her jaw tightened as she gripped Isaiah''s clothes even tighter. What else would they tell her? Aries didn''t know, and a part of her didn''t want to know.

    "If my brother diesбн I''m going to kill you, Your Grace," she warned, along with a sharp breath. "You better pray he will open his eyes because I will curse you for life if he didn''t."

    Aries let him go aggressively, eyes flickering with anger and deep hatred, ming Isaiah for the excruciating pain in her heart. When Aries turned and faced the door, her eyes glossed over the faces of the people inside.

    Conan, Abel, and Marse were standing around the bed. They were looking back at her, watching her keep her chin up as she stepped inside.

    Marse''s gaze veered behind Aries''s figure, staring at Isaiah, who remained standing motionless in the same spot.

    ''It''s not actually his faultбн'' she thought, peeling her eyes away from him. ''... but he is also not innocent. These menбн are just too reckless without regard for the people who were now a part of their lives.''

    For Marse, Isaiah''s only fault was not sending a word back to the empire. If only Isaiah did, Abel wouldn''t send Dexter to find him. However, the reason she couldn''t fully me them was that it was a habit, and breaking a habit was a tough case to do. She heard there were times Isaiah бк and even Abel бк would leave without a word and would be gone for months, only to return when they feel like it.

    Marse folded her arms under her chest, ncing at Abel across the bed. Thetter also cast her a cursory look, but immediately shifted his attention to Aries.

    "Brotherбн" Aries''s voice shook as she got closer to the bed, seeing Dexter''s paleplexion. Her heart sank, catching several cuts on his face. And despite the quilt covering his body, Aries knew underneath it lies a severely wounded body.<sub> </sub>

    Aries had always admired her brother and never once did she ever see him look so weak. But right now, Dexter was hovering between life and death, and she couldn''t even do anything about it.

    Tears instantly pooled in her eyes, flooding her face. Aries clutched the pir of the bed, keeping her eyes on him. She dragged her feet to the side of the bed while Marse stepped back to give way to her.

    "You promisedбн" Aries huped, sitting on the edge of the mattress. With a trembling hand, she reached for his face. Not only hisplexion was pale, but his skin felt a bit cold. If she didn''t know, she would''ve mistaken this for his corpse.

    "You promised you''d retreat before anything goes wrongбн" she gulped and her neck turned taut, sheltering the tension in her throat. "... but why are you lying here? Do you hate me so much that you''d return to me in such a state?"

    Everyone remained silent, respecting Aries''s space and her feelings. Abel snapped his eyes at Conan and Marse. Conan wordlessly bowed while Marse rolled her eyes before the two of them left as silently as possible, closing the door to give them some time.

    When it was just them, Abel sat down on the armchair beside the bed and across from Aries. He nced at her as she wept silently and then moved his gaze to Dexter''s side profile. Abel was silent and his eyes sheltered multiple emotions, deep in thought.

    His train of thoughts halted when Aries''s shaking voice pierced the air.

    "What happened to him?" she asked, facing him. Tears blurred her vision, but she looked at Abel with anticipation. "Who did this to him?"

    Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so slowly. "We''re still investigating."

    "Soбн you don''t know yet?" Aries let out a dryugh but was unable to me Abel for it. There was a process to everything and not everything could be done in a snap of a finger.

    "Darling, that trinketбн" Abel crooned, watching her refocus her eyes on him. "The Marquess woke up once on our way here. He only said two words: the trinket andбн"

    "And?"

    "Maleficent." His continuation made her hold her breath. "We believed that the protection spell you gave him saved his life. However, we hadn''t found out how. Even Marse had no idea. Did you feel anything? It might help."

    Aries furrowed her brows, puzzled. "No." She shook her head. "Nothing in particr. I was nervous."

    "I seeбн" Abel rocked his head, keeping his arms folded under his chest. A glint flickered across his eyes, holding her gaze without faltering.

    "I will announce you as the Empress in a few days, darling," he said, and despite that Aries wanted to throw her sarcasm, she stayed silent. "In a few days, it''ll be a full moon and the night council will be present. We suspect someone in the night council has something to do with everything."

    "They will ask for your presence in the night council. Would you be willing to take a seat at the same table as them?" he asked after a minute. "You''ll be the bait, darling, is what I''m trying to say."

    "If it''s proven someone among them had anything to do with thisбн I will be a god or the devil himself if I must," she remarked with a tinge of suppressed anger and hatred. "I won''t let anyone who did this to him get away with this... unharmed."

    The two of them looked at each other; one bore calmness while the other held in the swirling fury in her eyes.

 Chapter 619 That Night... She Made A Promise

    Aries held Dexter''s hand, sitting on the armchair right beside the bed. Her arms were on the edge of the mattress, eyes locked on his paleplexion.

    "Brother." Her soft voice pierced the deafening silence. "I''m sorryбн"

    The rest of her words got stuck in her throat, barely spoke her words of apology. Aries brushed her thumb against his knuckles. Her eyes softened once more. She had been crying and even when Abel told her to rest in their room, Aries insisted on staying beside Dexter. Fortunately, Abel didn''t argue with her and allowed her to stay by her brother''s side before he left.

    "What should I do?" came out a muffled voice, keeping his hand in between her hands, and resting it before her lips. Aries still kept her eyes on his face, and the longer she stared at him, the deeper this pain in her heart was.

    Knock Knock

    "Mydy, it is I, Gustav."

    Aries heard Gustav''s voice from outside the chambers after two knocks, but she didn''t answer him. The next thing she heard after a minute was Gustav''s announcement, "I will enter now, mydy," and then followed by the loud creak of the door.

    Gustav didn''t have to search for them as his eyes instantlynded on the bed, and then on Aries, who was sitting right beside it. He bowed wordlessly before marching closer, stopping a few steps away from the bed.

    From his vantage point, Gustav caught a glimpse of Dexter''s face. His eyes shed with anger and bitterness, seeing the marquess in such a state.

    "You haven''t had dinner, mydy," said Gustav, doing his best to ignore the turmoil within him. "To take care of the Marquess, you need a source of energy and strength."

    Silence was what answered Gustav while he observed Aries''s side profile. A tear rolled down from the corner of her eyes, sniffing sharply, but she still didn''t give him the slightest attention.

    "Mydy бк"

    "The reports saidбн whoever did this knows how to hurt a vampire." Aries cut him off whilst keeping her attention to Dexter. "His limbs were barely intact, countless stab wounds бк each of them were fatal, and they had ruined his core. If Abel and Marse arrived a secondter, he would''ve died."

    Gustav''s jaw tightened. "So, I heard," he breathed out, and even if he didn''t hear the reports about Dexter''s current state, Gustav already knew Dexter was barely breathing at the moment.

    "They left him bleeding out in the middle of nowhereбн he would''ve died a slow and painful death," Aries continued, repeating the reports she heard from Abel. "When I heard about it, I feel like someone stabbed me right through my chest бк over and over and without mercy. I can''t help but wonderбн the pain he went through and the angst he endured for hours, holding on to dear life before they found him."

    Her lips quivered as her eyes stung once again, squeezing Dexter''s slightly chilly hand. She rested his hand on her cheek, hoping they warm up even just a tiny bit.

    "After my entire family was ruined, and I was left with nothing but helplessness, I thought it''ll just be me until the end. But Abel came and offered his broken heart to fill the missing pieces of mine like a puzzle. Sir Conan gave me a piece of his and the Marquessбн I never thought we would have such a strong familial rtionship." Aries swallowed the frustrating tension building up in her throat. "He would give me the world despite that the blood sustaining his life and mine aren''t rted."<sub> </sub>

    "He loved me for who I am and gave me a home I could run to. He would console me if I needed it," she continued. "And listen to my woes, regardless of his personal opinion of the man of my choosing. My brother had always prioritized my happiness, iming my happiness was his joy, and my sorrow was his as well."

    "He loved me," Aries added, barely able to spit those words out at the striking affliction in her chest. "If this was in the past, I would ask myself repeatedly; <strong>what did he do to deserve this?</strong> He was the kindest, most considerate, and most thoughtful person I had known. Butбн I couldn''t ask those words."

    "If only I could and left puzzled бк that was better. However, I had long realized people don''t care about other people." She slowly shifted her eyes to Gustav, tears forming in the corner of her eyes. "A person doesn''t need to do anything for other people to hurt them. They didn''t need any deeper reason for their action; all they need was one reason to use as an excuse for their vileness."

    Gustav held Aries''s shaking eyes and pressed his lips into a thin line. "This world is filled with cruel and unforgiving people."

    "That''s right." Aries rocked her head in agreement, setting her eyes back to Dexter. "This worldбн is filled with cruelness and ruthlessness. Being kind just proves itself impossible to achieve."

    She leaned over, cupping Dexter''s face to check his temperature. "Even his biological sister, whom he protected with all his life, only used him. Everyone is just cruel."

    "Mydyбн" Gustav furrowed his brows, staring at Aries, whose attention was on the Marquess. "Howбн?"

    "Sunny mentioned it in passing." She cast the butler a sidelong nce. "She didn''t detail everything, but she mentioned the real Danie was a self-centered, sickly young miss. I pretended not to know since I thought it didn''t matter anymore."

    "My brother has me now, and his real sister was dead, anyway. Abel killed her, did he?" she cocked her head back, quirking a brow at Gustav. Thetter didn''t answer as he simply lowered his head.

    Aries didn''t know the details regarding Danie and had always been curious. Sunny hinted to her about this Danie, and even imed, "grandpa sent her to be the devil''s concubine," with an adorable smile. But it didn''t matter since Aries pledged to love and treasure Dexter just the way he deserved, not wanting to dwell in the past that would reopen Dexter''s scars.

    "Gustav," she called, waiting for Gustav to raise his head. "I don''t know your history with my brother, but I am aware he trusts you so much. You cared for him, but why didn''t you go with Abel?"

    Gustav remained silent whilst keeping his eye contact with her.

    "He ordered me to protect you at all costs if needed," he answered truthfully.

    "And you kept that promiseбн even though you were worried sick about him?"

    "I do not want to disappoint the Marquess, mydy." Gustav lowered his eyes, his expression somber. "Even though I am aware he was barely holding on to thest thread of life, his orders were absolute. He cares for mydy and treats her life far more important than his."

 Chapter 620 That Night... She Made A Promise II

    "Even though I am aware he was barely holding on to thest thread of life, his orders were absolute. He cares for mydy and treats her life far more important than his."

    Aries let out a faint, dryugh. Those remarks Gustav uttered, especially thest one, left this indescribable pang in her heart. She was aware of that but hearing those words from another still hurt.

    "With His Majesty''s absence, there''s only I who is capable of protecting you if someone took advantage of His Majesty''s absence," he exined, keeping it short and simple. "Furthermore, that''s the least I could do."

    Silence followed Gustav''s remarks, as neither of them talked for minutes. Aries kept her eyes on Dexter, rubbing his hand to keep them warm. Tears shone in her eyes, but the supply wasn''t enough for her to bawl her eyes out.

    "Iбн will be the Empress," she announced after another minute of total silence. "You had probably expected that, knowing Abel was already dead set to make us official and was tired of hiding our rtionship."

    Her eyelids drooped as she deadpanned. "That had been the n and the initial reason. It was quite shallow if I am being honest, but I realizedбн the position of the empress wasn''t just the emperor''s wife and support system."

    "The positionбн holds the power to mobilize an army, influence like no other, and a figure one could look up to or watch out for," she added in a soft voice. "I''m going to take it, Gustav. I''ll be an empress who holds the same power as the emperor and be someone one would be either admired or feared."

    "My nameбн Danie Circe Vandranбн will be renowned across the world. I''ll let everyone know the people I care about, and how merciless I could be if they touch even the tip of their hair with malice." Aries squeezed Dexter''s hand again with a trembling hand, yet the fire in her eyes was not easily extinguished. She slowly set them at Gustav, showing her unbending resolve and determination.

    "You had served my brother, the marquess, and until now upholds his will." She raised her chin. "He trusts you, but that doesn''t mean I trust you just as much as he does. However, I want to give you the benefit of the doubt and give you an offer."

    Her jaw tightened as her eyes glinted.

    "Pledge your loyalty to me. Be my servant and forget aboutбн your old master. Take my words and orders as absolute, and you''ll be rewarded for your service." Dauntless, Aries looked at Gustav with unfaltering resolve. "I won''t force you if you refuse and I''ll leave you alone. However, I won''t allow you to poke your nose into my affairs, nor will you be able to stop me from walking to hell with my own two feet."

    Silence once again descended into the room, looking at each other without a pause. Gustav let out a shallow breath as he walked toward her, stopping at arm''s length from her armchair. He gazed down at her, studying the fire underneath those clear emeralds.

    To be truthful, Gustav should refuse her offer, as he wouldn''t benefit from it. Aries was simply asking him to shift his loyalty to her and not to Dexter, to receive direct orders from her бк even at the cost of his life бк and to serve her without questions asked. Her offer was shameless and clearly unfair, but deep in his bones, he knew if he refused, Aries would do everything she could to stop his protection.

    Aries was being serious about sabotaging him from doing what he promised the Marquess. At the end of the day, Gustav had to make a tough decision, because Aries had already decided on this path. No one could stop her anymore.

    Gustav slowly went down on his one knee, raising a palm, and waited for her to put hers on it. Seeing his action, Aries carefully nted her hand on top of his palm, letting him carefully wrap his fingers around it.<sub> </sub>

    "I am at your service, my Queen," he remarked, nting a kiss on her knuckles. "Use me at your disposal."

    Aries didn''t show the slightest satisfaction or repulsion at his gesture but kept her sharp features. She looked down at him, watching him raise his sincere eyes back to her.

    "Whatever my queen needs, I shall execute them without questions asked. Your words will be absolute and your will will bear more importance than my own. My life will be in your hands and I will be at your mercy," Gustav remarked sincerely without looking away from her eyes. "Allow me to serve you until the end of time, my Queen."

    Aries nodded, her chest heaved heavily. She slowly retrieved her hand but kept her unfaltering gaze on him.

    "Forget about my brother''s orders," she ordered, and Gustav hung his head low.

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    Aries clenched her teeth and looked away from him. She set her eyes back to Dexter to keep her resolution from waning. Being under everyone''s protection was tiring because that means she had to be in this situation over and over again.

    Aries didn''t want to sit at the bedside while watching her loved one recover. The night of the coven and how powerless she felt had left a deep regret in her heart, and now this. Aries clutched the armrest tightly, telling herself this would be thest time.

    She wasn''t able to protect her family in Rikhill and her people, but she would definitely protect the new family бк the people who epted her and valued her regardless of her past. They gave her life and purpose, and she wanted to protect them at all costs, even if that meant bing a more cruel and ruthless tyrant than the emperor.

    "Investigate Princess Agnes and Lady Ivory, thest two official candidates for the empress," Aries gave Gustav his first mission, eyes glinting with malice. "And find out the situation of the east and south district... and anything that could be used against them. The bigger and darker it is, the better."

    Gustav nced up at her, only to see her sharp side profile.

    "Your wish is mymand, my Queen." He bowed, epting her orders without questions asked. Whatever her reason for this, it didn''t matter to Gustav anymore. Whether she was cooking something malicious or simply wanted to be informed, it was up to Aries what she would do with the information he would gather.

    With that being said, Gustav excused himself to execute her orders with great discretion. As Aries was left alone inside the room, she kept her eyes on Dexter.

    "This timeбн" she bent over and held his hand as she said a promise she would keep for a lifetime. "... I will be the one who will protect you, brother."

 Chapter 621 [Bonus Chapter]Somethings Brewing In Her Mind

    Aries had always known Gustav was a capable man. Dexter wouldn''t trust Gustav with affairs that had nothing to do with the manor if he wasn''t. However, it still surprised her how efficient Gustav was. Gustav dug everything he could and gave her the result two dayster.

    Everything that was regarding Princess Agnes and Lady Ivory since the selection started was all in the documents Gustav had gathered. There was some information that didn''t have that much importance, but also information that Aries could use at the right time.

    Although reading them made Aries admire Princess Agnes. The said woman was surely a woman worthy of admiration. Not only she could dominate the high society and host tea parties wlessly, but also, her methods in governing the south were faultless.

    If Aries wasn''t a candidate herself, she would support the princess, for she had proven herself worthy. However, Aries had this newfound reason to be the empress. Her coronation was already set in stone even when there was obviously a much-worthy candidate, but Aries didn''t want any appeal or problems once she imed the throne.

    Lady Ivory, on the other hand, wasn''t any less remarkable. Unlike the sophisticated and elegant Princess Agnes, Lady Ivory was as cunning as a fox. She would use herckey to verbally attack anyone she disliked while keeping her good public image. Personality aside, Lady Ivory also governed the east properly. Although there was some discrepancy, Aries needed to confirm.

    Thepetition was tough, and Aries only realized how close this race was. After all, this was the only time she actually took her opponents seriously. If this was a fairpetition, Aries wouldn''t be certain about winning. It just so happened her backer was the emperor himself, but she didn''t want to becent anymore.

    Aries stood in front of the window in the empty hallway on the second floor of the Hyacinth Pce. She had been staring at the courtyard, watching Lady Ivory and Lady Julienne бк Lady Ivory''s handmaiden бк walk while chatting.

    The two were obviously headed to the main garden. Her eyes glinted withplexity, expression sharp.

    "Lady Danie."

    Aries blinked upon hearing Sybil''s voice from her side. When she turned to face her, the sharpness stered on Aries''s face was reced with gentleness. There, Sybil and Suzanne were standing several feet away from her and were looking at Aries with surprise.

    "What are you doing here, mydy?" Suzanne asked as they approached Aries. "I heard you just recovered from your fever. You should stay in your room and rest some more."

    "Mydyбн" Sybil reached for Aries''s hand to check if she was cold.

    They didn''t see Aries for over a week and they med it for not looking after her even more attentively. Aries had helped the people in the west district, but she ended up falling ill because of it. Hence, they felt guilty about it as her handmaidens.

    Normally, Aries would feel guilty after seeing the worry in Sybil''s eyes. However, she didn''t budge now. Aries offered them a kind smile, holding Sybil''s soft and gentle hands.

    "I had been stuck in my room for days. I feel sick of it now," Aries humored with a smile. "That''s why I thought I should take a stroll. I didn''t want to strain my body, so I rested in here for a while."

    "You should''ve called for us, mydy." Suzanne frowned. "We came looking for you, but when we found out you went out, we were worried."

    Aries''s smile turned warmer, darting her eyes between thedies. "Where''s Princess Veronika?"<sub> </sub>

    "She''s probably looking for you in the opposite wing where you always spend time," said Suzanne, and then Sybil added, "she''s anxious about you, mydy. Princess Veronika had been restless upon knowing you fell ill."

    "Is that so?" Aries let out a shallow breath, putting her hand down. However, Sybil didn''t let her hand go, as if she was a child afraid to get abandoned by her mother. Aries didn''t mind, though. Sybil was naturally clingy and was very fond of Aries, treating thetter as her big sister. Sybil reminded her of ric.

    "How about we take a stroll in the garden? I feel slightly stuffy after staying inside my room for days," Aries proposed with a smile, raising her brows in anticipation. "It would be nice to spend an afternoon tea with you. I missed Princess Suzanne''s personally brewed tea."

    Suzanne blushed mildly. "You tter me, mydy."

    "Hehe. You look happy!" Sybil didn''t spare Suzanne some ck as she sold her out.

    "Stop it, Sybil. Do not embarrass me."

    "But your tea is truly amazing," said Aries, nodding encouragingly at Suzanne. "Would you invite me for tea?"

    Suzanne looked at Aries bashfully. She cleared her throat, sporting an indifferent look, but the natural blush on her cheek and the redness on the tip of her ear sold her out. Aries and Sybil didn''t tease her, though.

    "It''ll be my honor," said Suzanne formally. "I procured a few herbal teas for mydy."

    As Suzanne walked beside Aries while Sybil was on the other side, she kept bragging about the herbal teas she procured. Aries was moved by the princess''s gesture, getting the gist of how worried they were about her well-being.

    Although Aries didn''t fall ill, she had been distraught over Dexter''s condition. Hence, it could be considered Aries wasn''t really well. Even until now that they were on their way to the garden, Aries was barely fine. A part of her heart was lying within her brother''s loose grip, and only she would retrieve it if he regain consciousness.

    They reached the garden without noticing it as they happily chatted; Aries was modest all throughout. The three of them stopped by the fountain, surrounded by a variety of flowers with spaces for tables and chairs. They nned to use the pavilion as it was a better spot to enjoy a cup of tea, however, it was already upied by Lady Ivory and Lady Julienne.

    "They don''t usually go in here," Suzanne mumbled, apparently displeased at the sight of the twodies in the pavilion.

    Sybil also frowned, tugging Aries''s arm. "Mydy, should we go to the other garden? It won''t be far and we could see the Rose Pce from there."

    Aries looked at Sybil and then at Suzanne. She knew Lady Ivory and Julienne would be there; they were the reason Aries asked these two to stroll in here. Just as her lips parted, her tongue rolled back upon hearing Lady Ivory''s voice.

    "Lady Vandran." Aries caught Suzanne roll her eyes before moving her eyes in the pavilion''s direction, and was met with a pair of clear golden eyes that were just as bright as the sun. Lady Ivory simply smiled at Aries, and thetter smiled back.

 Chapter 622 [Bonus Chapter]Tongues As Sharp As Daggers

    Lady Ivory modestly left the pavilion and approached the threedies. Behind her was Lady Julienne, ring daggers at Suzanne, while thetter also red back at her. Their dislike for each other was obvious, but the rest turned a blind eye to this silent gesture.

    Lady Ivory uttered a few flowery words, which Aries returned with the same energy, praising thedy''s demeanor and even her great results during the entirepetition. Despite the kind words used, there was a clear hostility in the air. Yet, Lady Ivory invited them to join them for a cup of tea.

    Sybil and Suzanne signaled Aries to refuse, knowing Aries was still recovering and thest thing they wanted to deal with right now was humoring the vain Lady Ivory and her arrogant handmaiden, Lady Julienne. However, Aries feigned ignorant and epted her invitation. Which led the fivedies to sit around the round, intricate table with snacks and tea on top of it.

    "I heard you were ill, mydy. Is it alright with you to walk around now?" Lady Ivory put down the teacup back on the saucer, looking at Aries with utter concern. "Won''t it strain your body?"

    "Thank you for your concern, Lady Norwood. I had been inside my chambers for weeks and I feel even sicker staying indoors." Aries smiled modestly. Her bearing was mild. "Having a walk and taking a breath of fresh air is good. I feel better now."

    "Mydy fell ill because she takes care of the people in the west district, forgetting to take care of herself." Sybil frowned, but sneakily stressed her words to make a point. "Everyone in the west district was very concerned. They were very fond of mydy."

    "When they heard a fever strike Lady Vandran, everyone was very concerned. They would even ask the knights and tell them to send their wishes for her speedy recovery," Suzanne chimed in with a modest smile, darting her eyes between Lady Ivory and Lady Julienne.

    "Myбн I bet they had been praying for your recovery." Lady Ivory picked up her teacup and gazed at Aries over the rim. "Good thing you''re alright now, mydy."

    "Butбн isn''t that a little concerning, Lady Vandran?" Lady Julienne jumped in the conversation, looking at Aries with a tinge of curiosity and cluelessness. "The position for an empress isn''t just to assist His Majesty to lead this great empire, but also to carry his seed. Even if there were rumors regarding the empire''s bloodline, people would have few expectations. Furthermore, even if there was some truth in this rumor, the empress still requires a healthy body to protect her subjects."

    "Lady Julienne, are you insinuating Lady Vandran isn''t fit for the position?" Sybil frowned, being more direct as she hadn''t learned how to keep her emotions at bay.

    Lady Julienne shrugged, feigning innocent. "That is not what I meant, Your Highness Sybil. All I am saying is that Lady Vandran had always had a weak body ever since. She only recovered from the illness that had stricken her all her life. I''m simply concerned since the pressure, once she bes the empress, might endanger her health."

    "Lady Storme, I would appreciate it if you choose your words carefully," Suzanne returned, her voiceced with a warning. "Lady Danie had emerged victorious from her sickness. I believe that alone is enough proof she was far stronger than any sickness."

    "That is correct." Sybil nodded. "If I were Lady Julienne, you shouldn''t speak so carelessly. You are lucky it is us who had heard your remarks because if it were others, I''m afraid it would reach the crown prince''s ears again. What would you do if His Highness the crown prince takes your statements as treason?"

    The side of Suzanne''s lips curled up into a smirk. Her eyes lit up as if a light bulb on her head suddenly lit up.

    "Speaking of, I heard it is thanks to Lady Norwood that Lady Storme avoided the noose," said Suzanne with a bright smile, obviously mocking Lady Julienne. "Lady Norwood surely takes care of her people. I was in tears when I heard how she begged the emperor to pardon Lady Storme''s slip up."<sub> </sub>

    "I also heard His Highness, the crown prince, threw a huge fit when he heard His Majesty''s interference," Sybil purposely let out a brief chuckle, covering her lips as if she didn''t mean it. She then looked around cautiously and then whispered-yelled at her. "Lady Julienne, it must be hard treading on eggshells, knowing the crown prince is watching all your movements, waiting for you to make a mistake."

    Lady Julienne''s expression died, listening to these two and their fake concerns. They were obviously hitting a sore spot over and over, pretending they were worried, when, in fact, they were attacking her.

    "Lady Storme, it is good that Lady Norwood takes care of her people." Suzanne leaned forward, nodding at Lady Julienne encouragingly. "However, you should consider Lady Norwood''s disposition. She couldn''t keep begging people just so you get pardoned."

    "That''s right. The crown prince, although young, holds authority. What would you do if he ordered to execute you on the spot?" Sybil chimed worriedly. "Even if Lady Norwood rushes to the emperor''s pce, I don''t think her feet were faster than a royal knight''s sword."

    Hearing Suzanne''s remarks, Lady Ivory frowned. She raised her gaze to Aries across from her, and thetter simply raised her brows innocently. They had been keeping quiet and allowed theirckeys to do their bidding. Aries wouldn''t normally tolerate such scenarios prolonging, but right now, she was purposely feigning innocence and wasn''t showing the slightest intention of stopping Suzanne and Sybil from ganging up on Lady Julienne.

    "Youбн!" Lady Julienne''s voice shook, clutching her skirt as the two were going too far. "Lady Ivory invited you for a tea with good intentions, but not only did you keep saying nonsense but also disrespect her in every way possible бк"

    "Lady Julienne." Lady Ivory cast Lady Julienne a look, and thetter cleared her throat and lowered her head. She nodded mildly, setting her sharp eyes back to Suzanne and Sybil. "I appreciate Your Highnesses concerns. Lady Storme had been a little sensitive recently; please disregard her previous remarks."

    "No, Lady Norwood." This time, Aries also joined the conversation. "I think Suzanne and Sybil had gone too far, but keep in mind they were still learning and don''t intend any harm."

    Aries cast Suzanne and Sybil a look, and the two lowered their heads. They knew in their hearts they crossed the line, but that was because Lady Julienne attacked Aries first. Still, if Aries already gave them a subtle warning look, they didn''t have a choice but to shut their mouths.

    "They simply get emotional when they think someone is trying to attack me. But I know that is not an excuse. It is my responsibility to discipline them." Aries kept her modest. "This exchange will never happen again. I promise."

    Lady Ivory let out a faint scoff, getting the gist of Aries''s insinuation. Aries was clearly pushing the me on Lady Julienne, and every one of them understood that.

    "I didn''t know there was a gathering of candidates." Just as Lady Ivory''s lips parted to rebut Aries''s remarks, Princess Agnes''s voice rang from their side. They turned their heads at the entrance of the pavilion, and there stood the sophisticated princess.

    "It seems youdies are having a good time," said Princess Agnes, sensing the heated tension in the air, but ignored it with a smile. "May I join you for tea?"

 Chapter 623 This Simple Woman Is Just Trying To Survive

    With the presence of Princess Agnes, the heated argument between thedies was put to a halt. Princess Agnes truly suited the position of the empress. She didn''t have to question thedies about what happened but feigned ignorance about it, whilst diverting their attention to a much more ''intelligent'' topic they all could learn from and enjoy.

    In the end, thedies ended up on a less terrible note; Lady Julienne, however, was still apparently displeased but had to hold her emotions in. When the afternoon tea ended, Lady Ivory was the first to excuse herself, as she could no longer endure their ''insufferable'' presence.

    "Hahбн" Suzanne rolled her eyes as the twodies departed the pavilion. She didn''t even conceal her attitude, despite that Princess Agnes was still sitting with them.

    "Suzanne, you need to practice self-control," said Aries with a faint sigh. "You too, Sybil."

    "But mydy." Sybil frowned, her shoulders mild. "How can we not get riled up when she brought up your health issues and made it sound like you are not fit to be a candidate?"

    "I don''t regret fighting with her. The look on her face was satisfying," Suzanne added with a shallow huff.

    Aries shook her head mildly but didn''t scold them for it. She shifted her eyes to Princess Agnes, smiling at them modestly.

    "Apologies, Your Highness. But we have to excuse ourselves first," said Aries to the princess. "It was a well-spent afternoon with the candidates, knowing thepetition ising to an end."

    Princess Agnes kept her smile while studying Aries''s demeanor.

    "Lady Vandran, will you take a stroll with me?" she asked. "I know you probably want to rest, but I don''t think we will have this leisure in the following days."

    The corner of Aries''s lips turned up even more as if she was expecting such a request. She cast Suzanne a look, and then at Sybil. The two princesses had their brows raised, sizing up Princess Agnes as if weighing if she was good news or just as terrible as the narcissistic Lady Ivory.

    "Suzanne, Sybil, I will go with Her Highness. You may go first," Aries announced politely, keeping her smile, holding Princess Agnes''s gaze. "I agree with Her Highness. We might not have the leisure to take a stroll together since thepetition ising to an end."

    Aries and Princess Agnes stared at each other with a friendly smile. Meanwhile, Sybil and Suzanne darted their eyes between the two official candidates, tilting their heads a little to the side.

    With that being said, Sybil and Suzanne bid the two farewells and sauntered off while Aries and Princess Agnes walked in the opposite direction.

    Silence slowly reigned over Aries and Princess Agnes, walking through the gravel path, enjoying the fresh and slightly chilly air kissing their beautiful faces.

    "Were you expecting me to make such a request, mydy?" Princess Agnes broke the stillness in the air after another minute of nothing but silence. She cast Aries, who was walking beside her, a cursory look.

    "With ourst discussion, it wouldn''t be a surprise you''d want to talk to me." Aries smiled, treading carefully. "Thest time took me off guard, and I am unsure if I reacted ordingly."

    "It was abrupt, so it was understandable." Princess Agnes chuckled, slowing down to match Aries''s pace. "Soбн now that thepetition ising to an end, have you thought about my proposal, mydy?"

    Aries slowed down a step, quirking a brow at her. "I did. However, I was curious about how far this support can go?"<sub> </sub>

    "You had probably heard about the current race. Although I am notpletely confident, I know I have the chance to win." The princess''s lips curled up humbly, casting Aries a sidelong nce. "I can forfeit thepetition."

    "Bold, I say. However, there''s still Lady Ivory."

    Princess Agnes chuckled with lips closed. "Rightбн there''s still Lady Ivory."

    "Hahбн you don''t think Lady Ivory has the chance?"

    "I just don''t think she was actually a part of thispetition," Princess Agnes corrected, causing Aries''s brows to arch even higher. "I am aware Lady Norwood was good in her own right, however, she wasn''t exceptional. Her skillsбн average, and although her beauty was worth remembering, beauty fades. Her personality cannot even back it up."

    Her steps slowly came to a halt, facing Aries. "To put it simply, she would be a weak leader. I do not think the Emperor and the royal court would want a weak leader, especially with a tyrant husband."

    "So you''re saying all this time, it''s justбн you?"

    "I will not say that. Lady Vandran is remarkable." Princess Agnes motioned her hand, and the two resumed their stroll. "To be truthful, I am not as confident as I sound. There was still a part of me who believes you will win on your own."

    "Aren''t you afraid that will make me reconsider your offer?"

    "No." The princess let out another chuckle, shaking her head mildly. "Because I trust that Lady Vandran is wise and is on the same page as I am. Even if you knew you were doing well on your own, you cannot becent. You need reassurance."

    She then cocked her head back as her eyes fell on Aries''s side profile. "I can give you that reassurance, mydy. I might''ve said Lady Ivory was a weak leader, she might get lucky. That applies to you and me."

    "Luckбн" Aries chuckled weakly. "... is such a strange thing."

    "Indeed. Luck has an influence like no other. It could even save a life."

    "I cannot deny that." Aries rocked her head, pressing her lips into a thin line. As she kept her gaze ahead, her eyes fastened imperiously. She slowed down once more until she stopped, pivoting on her heel to face the beautiful and sophisticated Princess Agnes.

    "Your Highness, I was curious. Why would you prefer forfeiting the title of the empress instead of iming it for your own?" asked Aries out of in curiosity. "In that case, wouldn''t you find this person you''re looking for more efficiently? It''ll also be good for your kingdom."

    Princess Agnes didn''t answer immediately, smiling at Aries warmly. She drew a deep breath, looking away as her eyes softened at the flowers.

    "Because I cannot imagine my entire life being married to a man who thinks differently as I am," she said sincerely. "Iбн am not walking to hell with my own two feet."

    She then set her eyes back at Aries and grinned. "This simple woman is just trying to survive."

 Chapter 624 Prove Yourself Worthy

    "This simple woman is just trying to survive."

    A soft gust of wind blew past them. The floral scent and the smell of grass wafted their nostrils. Aries stared at Princess Agnes, sizing her up, and was convinced thetter was telling her the truth.

    In other words, Princess Agnes wanted to attain her goals, but not to the extent she could sacrifice her freedom.

    "The emperor might be an outstanding leader, but he gives me nightmares. This may sound ridiculous, but I am a very passionatedy. I don''t think I would attain romance with the emperor. A marriage with himбн is like counting how many days I have left," Princess Agnes added in a light tone. "I cannot live my life in fear. Not to mention, the crown prince would surely make my life a living hell."

    "You are discouraging me, Your Highness."

    "Apologies, if that is how I sound. I''m simply speaking from my heart." Princess Agnes approached the flowers on the side of the gravel path, looking at them with a subtle smile. "Ever since I stepped foot in the empire, I never had a good sleep. But no matter how worried I was, I couldn''t show it to others. Like alwaysбн a princess should always smile even if her feet hurt wearing ufortable footwear or stay modest despite the harrowing situation she was in."

    "Just the sheer thought of living in this ceбн makes me wonder what home feels like." She plucked out a flower and lifted it to her nose. She looked back at Aries and her smile grew even gentler, making the sophisticated and seemingly unshakeable princess appearбн simple.

    Ady with a simple wish but was born with a responsibility bigger than what she could carry on her shoulders. Perhaps it was because Aries was once a princess with a duty to conduct that she could understand Princess Agnes.

    "Am I strange if I say there were times I wished to walk barefoot, perhaps run in the meadow under the warm glow of the first morning of spring? To pick up flowers on my way and make a gand, which I''d put on her head?" Princess Agnes asked, holding the flower she pluck out in front of her. "It sounds strangeбн or shallow, isn''t it?"

    Aries''s eyes softened, recalling a very important person who once said almost the exact things to her.

    "No, I don''t think it sounds shallow," Aries''s voice was soft and understanding. "It sounds liberating. I think that''s freedom."

    Hearing Aries''s response, Princess Agnes''s smile grew warmer. This was the first time someone actually worded what she wished correctly. Freedom бк something a royalty like her didn''t have.

    "That is why I am bargaining with you." Princess Agnes walked forward until she was a step away from Aries. "I want to know about the whereabouts of that woman and know what happened to her."<sub> </sub>

    "Is she that important to you?" asked Aries, holding the princess''s gaze, unfaltering. "I don''t think she is, though. After all, if she''s that important, you would give up your desire for freedom. Am I wrong?"

    Princess Agnes smiled subtly. "No, you''re not wrong, mydy. I want to know about her, but not at the cost of my lifelong dream."

    "Why?" Aries threw a follow-up question immediately. "Why do you want to know about her? And how are you sure I want to walk to hell with my own feet?"

    "I''m doing it for someone," Princess Agnes remarked softly, her eyes fastening with longing. "I cannot disclose the details, but that someone was very close to my heart. As for yourst inquiry, I just know."

    She leaned her face slightly, looking at Aries straight in the eye. "The look in your eyes now is different from thest time we talked, mydy. The desire for power looked deeper and brighter now, making your beautiful emerald eyes appear red that were just as wild and bright as a wildfire in the middle of the night."

    "Youбн want the crown and everything thates along with it more devotedly than ever," Princess Agnes continued, drawing her head back. This time, her expression was solemn and firm. "And I can give you reassurance. You have one lesspetition."

    The twodies looked at each other for a moment silently. Another soft gust of wind blew past them, but unlike the floral scent previously, the air stunk of blood. Someone must''ve died, they thought, but they didn''t dwell on that thought.

    "I said it previously, Your Highness. How far can this support will go?" Aries said quietly, taking a step forward to lessen their distance. "If you give up your participation, there''s still Lady Norwood. We talked about luck and reassurance, and I can only be reassured if everyone doesn''t have a choice but me."

    Princess Agnes furrowed her brows as this unsettling feeling suddenly crawled under her skin. The fire in Aries''s eyes made her want to step back, but at the same time, stilled her feet on the ground. Aries didn''t feel that intimidating, but now, her aura and lust for power were enough to send a dread to the pit of the princess''s stomach.

    "You are a wise woman. I''m sure you understood what I am talking about, Princess. " Aries carefully reached for the flower within the princess''s grip and took it. She carefully slid the stem on top of Princess Agnes''s ear and then snapped her eyes at her.

    "I know where this woman you are looking for and I can tell you exactly where she is right now. However, prove yourself worthy." Aries smiled, lowering her hand, pleased at how the flower suited the princess. "I want Lady Ivory out of thispetition without giving her a chance to send an appeal or the right to question the results. After all, she has a way with her words, and thest thing I want is someone instilling silly ideas into my future subjects."

    Aries took a step back and shed her a sweet smile. "A coronation that is filled with controversy is an omen to start my reign, don''t you think, Princess?"

 Chapter 625 I Know Everything

    The corners of Aries''s lips curled up into a smirk while enjoying a cup of tea. Putting the teacup on the saucer, Aries lifted her gaze to Veronika across from her. They were currently enjoying a cup of tea on the balcony of the Hyacinth Pce, and Veronika told her of the news she got wind of this morning.

    "Thatбн sounds terrible," Aries mused, causing Veronika''s brows to furrow.

    "Mydy, you don''t have anything to do with the incident in the east district, do you?" Veronika blurted out, a bit surprised at theplex reaction she got from Aries.

    "Are you saying I am that terrible, Veronika?"

    "N бк no, of course not." Veronika lowered her eyes whilst shaking her head sideways. "I''m just expecting a different reaction, but I don''t think you will do such a thing."

    "You think so highly of me, Your Highness." Aries leaned back, waiting for Veronika to raise her eyes at her once again. "I am not that kind."

    Veronika''s brows rose. "What do you mean by that, Lady Danie?"

    "Lady Ivory, Princess Agnes, and I are in a race with a handsome reward. Now that thepetition ising to an end, unexpected things would be expected," said Aries. Her tone was calm бк unnaturally too calm. "Our anxiety for each passing day consistently increases, and the uncertainty bes too much to bear. Knowing your opponents are capable and amazingdies, we never had reassurance."

    "I am aware, mydy."

    "Therefore, before the candidates lose their minds before the announcement of who will be the empress, they needed to do everything to secure their peace."

    Veronika secretly held her breath, eyes locked with Aries. She gulped, sensing apletely different vibe from thetter. She had noticed something was amiss with Aries in the past several weeks, but only now did she convince herself she wasn''t just reading too much of it. Something changed.

    Ariesбн somehow changed, and it wasn''t gradual. It was abrupt бк perhaps this was her real colors peeking out, and her nonchnce in the first half of thepetition was just a facade. Veronika was unsure because this assumption didn''t seem the case. All she could think of was something that happened in the middle of thepetition that urged Aries to take things seriously.

    "Do not worry, Veronika." The corner of Aries''s lips curled up. "I did not do such a thing to the east district, but I cannot also im innocence."

    "Mydy, why are you telling this to me?"

    "Because you said it yourself. You took part in thispetition because of Ismael, and your goal is to get in His Majesty''s good graces whilst protecting me." Aries didn''t beat around the bush, reminding Veronika of her own words. "Or weren''t you serious about that?"

    "Of course not, mydy. It is true that I want to protect you lest something happens during thepetition. Fortunately, nothing like that happened. Even so, I will always stay true to my words," Veronika quickly reassured her. "Initially, it was because I promised His Majesty Ismael, but after assisting you all these previous months, I want to protect you because you were my friend."

    Aries nodded in satisfaction. "Will you still be my friend if you find out who I am and what I am capable of doing?"

    This time, Veronika opened her mouth to reassure her. However, the glint that flickered across Aries''s eyes caused her tongue to roll back. All she could do for a moment was to stare at those pair of deep green, making her gulp.

    Veronika knew Aries as a nonchntdy. Thetter barely gave the bare minimum in the first half of thepetition, and even when Lady Julienne or Lady Ivory picked on her, Aries didn''t bother that much. However, seeing these subtle changes in Aries for the past weeks, Veronika was slightlyбн scared of her.

    "Are you now having second thoughts, Princess Veronika?" Aries snapped Veronika out of her trance.<sub> </sub>

    "No, definitely not." Veronika once again lowered her eyes. "It''s just thatбн" she trailed off, lifting her eyes again and letting out a faint huff. "It''s just that I''m starting to worry about you, mydy. Did something happen that you are now desiring to win?"

    A soft gust of wind blew past them, allowing them to get a whiff of the tea''s aroma. Aries didn''t answer immediately, peeling her eyes from Veronika ever so slowly to look at the vast expanse and the beautiful scenery surrounding the Hyacinth Pce.

    "Sybil said the view here is good," Aries remarked soothingly, moving her eyes at the Pce in the distance. "She said you can see the beautiful Rose Pce from here. I didn''t think it was true."

    Veronika let out a shallow breath as she followed Aries''s gaze. She took this as a cue to not press on the matter as it was obvious Aries deliberately changed the subject.

    "Do you know how to fight, Princess?" asked Aries after a minute of silence, making Veronika raise her brows.

    "Uhm, yes," the princess answered, her tone had a tinge of bafflement. "I did mention that back in Chivisea, I was the overseer of Phicia District. That ce is under the governance of the crown prince."

    "So, that means you are the crown prince''s aide?" Aries set her eyes back to her.

    "Not necessarily an aide."

    "Do you wield your sword for him?"

    Veronika pursed her lips and nodded. "Yes."

    "And why is that?" Aries cocked her head to the side. "I heard the crown prince was ipetent."

    "My brother, the crown prince, might be arrogant, but he ispetent. He will be the next ruler of Chivisea, and everyone supports him."

    "Are you sure about your ims?" Aries fluttered her eyshes, observing the look in Veronika''s eyes. "The look in your eyes tells me otherwise, Veronika."

    Aries raised her chin as she recalled the details she got from Gustav and Conan about the people around her. She could no longer trust others, and Aries wanted reassurance she wasn''t keeping a venomous snake around her. Hence, she asked the people she could trust to investigate the candidates and the people surrounding her.

    After all, Aries had learned her lessons.

    "I''ll be truthful, Veronika." While Veronika knitted her brows, Aries confessed she asked someone to investigate the people around her. "I learned a very important lesson in my life and that was, dying in the hands of the enemy isn''t as painful as dying in the hands of a friend."

    She paused, letting Veronika absorb her words.

    "Therefore, you do not have to hide from me, Veronika. I know everything."

 Chapter 626 What Else Could She Do?

    "I learned a very important lesson in my life and that was, dying in the hands of the enemy isn''t as painful as dying in the hands of a friend. Therefore, you do not have to hide from me, Veronika. I know everything."

    Aries''s voice caressed Veronika''s ears before the wind drifted them away. Thetter''s eyes slightly shook, holding her breath, unable to look away from Ariesбн out of shame. Aries investigated her and now she knew everything. Veronika didn''t know whether to feel shame or anger, as she felt like Aries invaded her private matters.

    "Do you still think you can be my friend, Veronika?" Aries inquired, tilting her head to the side. "Despite that, I can respect boundaries or may not at all."

    "Whyбн would you do that?" came out Veronika''s shaking voice after recollecting her thoughts and was able to control her emotions.

    "I told you. I don''t want a person I trust to stab me once I turn my back," answered Aries almost immediately. "I experienced it once, and I almost died. I do not want to experience it again. Therefore, I needed constant reassurance. Believe me, I did not want to uncover the truths of your life, but I have to. Everyone just wants to survive and so am I."

    Veronika breathed out a jagged breath and rocked her head in understanding. Still, despite the rational exnation, it left a bitter aftertaste in her mouth.

    "I didn''t want to tell anyone since it was shamefulбн" she whispered, eyes down. "I had always admired you, Lady Vandran. Despite your illness, you were able to defeat it, only to find yourself in a precarious situation in politics. Just right after you recovered, you were sent to anothernd that sheltered the most twisted people I heard about."

    "Although there weren''t details of what you had gone through within the walls of the Maganti Empire, I had already expected the worst. And yet, you emerged from it victorious and reimed your position in the House Vandran," she continued solemnly and with a slight bitterness. "But it doesn''t end there, because you were now beingpensated unjustly and might marry the man who sent you to hell once."

    Veronika lifted her eyes, revealing a mix of admiration and shame. "Such a strong, empowering woman as you are. I am ashamed to even im to be your friend when I do not deserve it."

    "There is nothing to be ashamed of about your circumstance." Aries shook her head mildly. "You are being robbed of your skills, capabilities, and rights. The crown princeбн had stolen all of your achievements and gained merits from the things he stole from you."

    Veronika smiled bitterly. "I am a woman. What can a woman do, mydy?"

    "Many things that men cannot do," Aries stressed, keeping her sharp gaze at the princess. "This man''s worldбн always thinks they were heroes, and that women had to be saved. They im certain things shamelessly and don''t lose a wink of sleep. Why? Because of their genitalia?"

    "What should I do?" Veronika inquired helplessly. "Chivisea is unlike the Haimirich Empire. I am already privileged enough to wield a sword and have a tiny voice in the royal court. I am heard, although my voice was faint, I''m still lucky. Some women would even lose their tongues before they could speak."

    "And you were fine with just that?"<sub> </sub>

    "Iбн yes," the princess breathed out heavily. "I know it was unfair that all my hard work is being imed by someone else and gain merits from it. However, if it was for the people, why should I turn vengeful? The people are benefiting from it."

    "Your people are being deceived," Aries argued without a second hesitation. "Do you think once the crown prince ascended the throne, he won''t use this new gain power for his own greed? He is an ipetent man and a foolish one at that. Are you going to wait for that to happen and risk your people''s lives before you tell yourself enough is enough?"

    Veronika''s eyes shook as her heart thudded. She felt her throat dry up, opening and closing her mouth, but no words came out. It wasn''t that she wasn''t aware that she was being taken advantage of, but Chivisea just regained its freedom from the Maganti Empire''s oppression.

    What did Aries expect her to do?

    Veronika was already doing her best for her people and for thend where she was born and raised. She didn''t want to be greedy, but at the same time, she couldn''t deny Aries''s arguments. She knew her brother, the crown prince, and it wouldn''t surprise anyone if Chivisea would fall if he ascended the throne.

    <o>,m Still, the question, <strong>''what else could she do?'' </strong>remained strong.</o>

    "Change is the only constant thing in this world, Veronika," Aries''s voice shattered the prolonged, thick silence between them. "It is hardбн and sometimes, it can be bloody. Life is like a wheel. Sometimes you''re up there, sometimes you''re at the bottom. Take the Maganti Empire, for instance. The third prince, Ismael, had always been a step behind thete crown prince. But look at the Maganti Empire now."

    Aries arched her brows, sporting a knowing expression.

    "Ismael emerged victorious and is now the current sovereign of his belovednd," she continued, stressing everything to get her point across. "What makes you think you will always live in the shadow of a man who imed himself as a hero?"

    "What do you want me to do, then? Start a revolt just like His Majesty Ismael? An uprising is no better than a war, mydy. Our people are living a better life now."

    "They are living a better life now, yes, but what about the future generations? What sort of life would those children will have?" Aries''s tone was as calm as previously, but somehow, it sounded louder and firmer in Veronika''s ears. "If I have a child, I would do everything to give him, not just a safe ce to live in, but a ce where he can dream. I''m certain every parent would share the same sentiments."

    "Your intentions are good, I know that. But had it ever crossed you that by being reluctant to sully your hands and being content with the meager freedom you have now, you are also taking away the future of Chivisea?" she continued, throwing all fatal jabs to wake up Veronika''s senses. "The crown prince is deceiving your people, and if Chivisea fell, your silence had already taken away your right to im innocence. You will be just as responsible... and that makes you deserving to rot in hell."

 Chapter 627 [Bonus Chapter]Take The Crown Princes Seat.

    "Your intentions are good, I know that. But had it ever crossed you that by being reluctant to sully your hands and being content with the meager freedom you have now, you are also taking away the future of Chivisea? The crown prince is deceiving your people, and if Chivisea fell, your silence had already taken away your right to im innocence. You will be just as responsibleбн and that makes you deserving to rot in hell."

    There was a long and thick silence that followed Aries''s argument. The twodies only held each other''s gaze; one held firm conviction while others bore conflicting emotions. Veronika was at a loss. She got a grasp of Aries''s point, but until now, she couldn''t understand the intention behind this discussion.

    "Iбн do not have the power, Lady Vandran," Veronika confessed, as she didn''t know how to answer Aries anymore. "Even if, let''s say, I desire to fight for what I think was mine, I am certain I will lose this fight I picked. Not that I am jinxing it, but I am being realistic."

    "Who will support me?" she continued bitterly, but firmly. "Chivisea just regained its freedom from the Maganti Empire''s years of oppression. Even if His Majesty Ismael acknowledged me, he had a bigger problem than mine. Hence, I cannot ask him for support, knowing Maganti is still unstable."

    "There might be people in Chivisea who would support me, but it''s still not enough, mydy. If I pushed this through, I''m just sending everyone to their deaths. My heartбн cannot take that. Even so, I appreciate that you believe in me; it means a lot to me." Veronika bowed and then straightened her back to face Aries with a weak smile. "Being your friend was my honor, and I wish you attain what your heart desires бк whether it was to be an empress or a much simpler life."

    "Iбн" Aries trailed off, observing the depressing emotions Veronika was hiding beneath her limpid jet-ck eyes. "... am not your friend. I do not have such a weak friend."

    "Mydy?"

    "Violet might be modest and kind, but she was not a weak person," Aries continued, thinking that Violet was admirable and strong in her own way. Princess Violet, who was also Veronika''s friend, was a strongdy who could endure everything for her children.

    "She could do everything for her children, even if it means smiling through the agony that is killing her from the inside. Violet, although she couldn''t raise a weapon, would sully her hands if she must. Do you know why?" Aries added as her demeanor softened. "Because she knew what she was fighting for. So even if she knew she was weak, she would do everything to protect what and who were dear to her. Even if that means making a pact with the devil."

    "Is Chivisea not dear to you that you cannot take any risk?" Aries inquired right after, almost making Veronika sp her hair as it seemed Aries couldn''t understand her dilemma.

    "Mydy, I already said my quandary бк"

    p "You know the problem, I know." Aries cut her off. "But you are not making any effort for anything."</anda>

    Veronika''s breath hitched as her face instantly burned with anger. What Aries said triggered and touched a sensitive part of her heart.

    "What do you know?" she blurted out with a shaking voice, gripping the armrest tightly until her hands turned white. "I''m not making effort for anything? Was my participation in this selection a joke? Do you think I was happy while watching the man who stole my efforts and ideas bask in the glory he didn''t deserve? Each time people sing praises of him, I grit my teeth until they bleed because I had to stop myself from saying the truth which no one wants to hear."

    Veronika stopped as she realized her emotions took over her, holding her breath until her neck turned taut.

    "I''mбн at my wit''s end, Danie," her chest rumbled low as she spoke, tears coating her bloodshot eyes. Her grip on the armrest loosened as her lips quivered, yet she kept her gaze on Aries. "Iбн don''t know what to do anymore."<sub> </sub>

    She could feel her heart sink as the helplessness she had suppressed for years resurfaced in her heart. Until now, Veronika didn''t know the depths of this powerlessness and emotions she bottled up for many years, and now, she felt like being drowned.

    Veronika let out a jagged breath, stretching her arms over the table as if reaching her hand out as she slowly sank into the depths of her sorrow.

    "Help me," she whispered, resting her hand on the surface of the table, teary-eyed. "Pleaseбн help me, mydy."

    Hearing herst remarks, the sharpness in Aries''s eyes slowly dissipated. A faint breath escaped her nostrils, leaning over and sping Veronika''s hand.

    "Of course, I will." A subtle smile turned up on her face. "I am your friend, so I will help you with everything I can. You just have to ask, Veronika."

    Upon Aries''s remarks, a tear rolled down Veronika''s cheek. Aries''s hands felt warm and reassuring, and her voice somehow sent this ease into her heart.

    "Isn''t that what friendship means?" Aries continued with a smile, patting Veronika''s hand with both her hands.

    "But what should we do?" came out Veronika''s shaking voice after a minute.

    "Veronika." Aries squeezed Veronika''s trembling hands. Her eyes glinted with determination and encouragement. "I will im the throne."

    "Pardon?" Veronika''s mouth fell, staring into Aries''s clear eyes. "But mydy, the emperor was wary of your family and even sent you to the Maganti Empire to die. I cannot bear the guilt if you sacrificed your life for me."

    Aries shook her head. "My desire for power is greater and stronger than ever, Veronika. I am going to im the throne not because of you, but because of me. I want to be powerful and to be untouchable. For me to reach my goal, I want you and the people around me to bepetent."

    "I can help you, Veronika, but you need to help me as well," she added solemnly.

    "Whatбн can I do?" Veronika asked with a trembling voice, even though she already guessed what it was. She still needed to hear him.

    Aries didn''t respond immediately as she smiled subtly, observing the princess'' shaking eyes. When her lips parted, her words rolled out of her tongue elegantly.

    "Take the crown prince''s seat."

 Chapter 628 [Bonus Chapter]Spoiled

    "Take the crown prince''s seat."

    Veronika held her breath. She already guessed what Aries might''ve wanted, but hearing her say it still send this strange fire into her veins. All she could do for the next minute was to stare at Aries''s eyes, noticing the crafty glint that would appear and disappear just as quickly.

    "Ho бк howбн" Veronika''s voice trailed off, almost forgetting the rest of her words.

    "I had sent a letter to Ismael regarding this matter." Aries smiled, squeezing Veronika''s hand mildly once again. "And once I ascended the throne, I will give you my full support, Princess. If they were stubborn, I''d send a militia to kill them all. But if they were wiser, they''d step down before my patience runs out."

    Aries slowly released Veronika''s hand as she leaned back.

    "If you have a better proposition on how to execute this n, then do so. I just do not have the patience to humor the people who fill the royal court of Chivisea," she continued calmly, picking up the teacup to soothe her throat. "You said it yourself. I know nothing about Chivisea, and thus, I do not have any attachment to it. For as long as I get what I want, that''s all that matters to me. But since this is your home we''re talking about, if you can think of a much more peaceful resolution but just as effective as using violence, it''s your call."

    Aries frowned as she put down the teacup. "The tea has gone cold."

    Veronika bit her lower lip as she straightened her back. She carefully held her hands on herp, keeping her eyes on the woman across from her.

    "And if I seeded?" she asked, knowing Aries would want something in return.

    "I would like Chivisea''s full support." Aries smiled. "If I needed reinforcement, then you''d send your people without any discussion. I need loyal, capable people."

    "Mydyбн" Veronika let out a deep exhale, getting the full grasp of Aries''s intention. "Are you doing this because you''re afraid the emperor will challenge your position if ever you win?"

    "If ever I win?" Aries delicately quirked a brow. "I will win."

    "But we cannot becent. An incident had happened in the east district, and even if it wasn''t your doing, it could also happen to the west district."

    Aries chuckled with her lips closed, making Veronika raise her brows. She shook her head, turning her attention to the beautiful scenery.

    "I said it wasn''t my doing, but I also cannot im innocence." The side of her lips curled up as her eyelids drooped. "If there is something I want, I would get it."

    Aries set her eyes back at Veronika and shed her a bright smile. "You see, I''m quite spoiled. And right now, I want reassurance not just for winning, but for a full eptance of the empire and its people. I just told someone a few days ago, and I will repeat it again. I don''t want others to have any other options but me."

    p Veronika opened and closed her mouth, rendered speechless at Aries''s determination to win. Thetter''s ims still left a gigantic question mark over her head, but she understood Aries had a bit of involvement in Lady Ivory''s misfortune.</anda>

    No matter how little Aries''s involvement was, it still rmed Veronika. She studied Aries silently, and her shoulders rxed.

    "The empire will surely investigate the matter in the east district, mydy," she said, reminding Aries she shouldn''t be that confident. Even if Lady Ivory was on a brink of getting disqualified, Princess Agnes was still a strong candidate one shouldn''t underestimate.

    "No matter how little your involvement was, you will still be held ountable. After all, the emperor was surely waiting for you tomit a mistake so he could attack the Marquess," she added solemnly.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line and hummed. She was tapping her fingertips against the armrest as she pondered.

    "The emperor wouldn''t do that," she imed confidently.<sub> </sub>

    "But mydy, have you forgotten how he sent you to the Maganti Empire? If not for the fact that the aristocratic faction pressured the emperor, you wouldn''t getpensated." Veronika leaned over as if that would make Aries get her point. "I wouldn''t be surprised if the imperial faction sabotaged you just so you do not win."

    "I doubt."

    "Mydy, you бк" Veronika''s breath hitched as she felt a menacing gaze on her back. Herplexion turned paler even though she hadn''t seen who was the person by the door of the terrace was. And when the person''s voice danced in the air, Veronika''s heart sank.

    "Badmouthing me, I seeбн"

    <strong>No doubt, </strong>was what came into Veronika''s head. This voiceбн was definitely the emperor. Myriads of questions surged in her mind, such as, what was he doing here? Did he hear everything? Would she wait for her head to roll now? And many more.

    "Veronika, it was true His Majesty arranged my betrothal to thete crown prince of the Maganti Empire." Aries''s voice snapped Veronika out of her trance, watching thetter slowly raise her shaking eyes on her. "However, it was a mutual agreement. The ideaбн was mine because the Maganti Empire owed me, and I wanted to settle the score with them."

    Aries nted her hands on the armrest, pushing herself up. Veronika could only watch Aries''s figure as she walked, her fingertips caressing the edge of the table. Slowly, Veronika twisted her body as Aries walked past her chair, and approached the man leaning on the door of the balcony.

    The emperor''s expression was in. His arms were folded under his chest, eyes fixed on Aries, who was approaching him.

    "And here I was, expecting a vigorous date," came out hiszy andining voice, peeling his shoulder from the jamb, only to pull Aries''s waist the second she was within his reach. "It''s a good thing I didn''te bare, darling. How dare you use me to make a point? This is definitely an abuse of power."

    "Don''t be angry." Aries fluttered her eyshes coquettishly at him before she looked back at Veronika. Thetter looked at the intimate position of the two, wide-eyed and cked jaw.

    <strong>What''s going on?</strong>

    "Darling, her brother is bullying her," Aries chuckled at Veronika''s reaction, and then faced Abel. "She''s a precious friend, so I want to help her."

    "Oh?" Abel snapped his brows up and nced at Veronika offhandedly. "Do you want to y ball with his head tomorrow?"

    Aries pped his chest to get his attention. "That''s bad."

    "But the easiest." Abel grinned until his eyes were squinting, poking the tip of her nose. "Come. I finished my duties for the day as soon as I received your invitation. Don''t break my heart; it was made of ss."

    Aries bit her lower lip before ncing back at Veronika again.

    "I told you, I''m quite spoiled. We''ll excuse ourselves first." She smiled at her. "Enjoy the rest of the day, Veronika."

    With that being said, Abel held Aries''s hand as they sauntered off, holding hands, leaving Veronika dumbfounded. Even when the two disappeared from her sight, Veronika kept her nk eyes on the door. She couldn''t believe what her eyes just witnessed; no one would ever picture the tyrant looking at something or someone so lovingly.

    "The emperorбн" she mumbled, distraught. "... and Lady Danie?"

    Veronika covered her gaping mouth as realization crossed her mind. <strong>''She meant it,'' </strong>she thought, realizing that Aries''s words weren''t just mere encouragement, but orders.

    Ariesбн the future empress had already taken her in as one of her people. And in her reignбн she wanted changes.

 Chapter 629 Dont Miss Me

    Aries nced over her bare shoulder while Abel was nting soft kisses on it. She held the quilt to cover her chest, chuckling as his hot breaths sent a tickling sensation against her skin.

    "Do you have to go that far?" he asked, raising his face. Abel rested his chin on her shoulder, hugging her from behind as they sat down in the middle of the bed.

    "What do you mean?" she returned, arching a brow delicately.

    The corner of his lips curled into a lopsided grin. "That Princess."

    "Veronika?"

    "The other one they called your opponent," he reminded her of Princess Agnes as he didn''t know her name. The candidates had no importance to him because the only woman in his eyes was Aries.

    "Ahh..." Aries chuckled with her lips closed, peeling her eyes away to look at the window. The curtains were settled to the side as Gertrude hadn''t entered her chambers, knowing Abel was inside. "Your question is wrong, Abel. I didn''t ask Princess Agnes to go that far. Thus, it is not me who had gone far."

    "But you asked her to take out this other candidate."

    "I did, but I didn''t tell her to burn the entire storage and leave a trace of illegal substance as evidence as the caused of the fire," Aries smirked in amusement. "Princess Agnes... she''s an interestingdy, isn''t she?"

    "Is she?" Abel gazed at her stunning side profile with admiration. "I cannot tell because you never give me a chance to look at others."

    "Are you sure you hadn''t looked at others?" she repeated out of in curiosity, ncing back at him.

    "Never." His answer was quick and full of certitude. "My wife is the most stunning woman my eyes hadid upon. I got so used to admiring your beauty that the rest looks like squids."

    Aries burst out inughter before she said, "you tter me."

    "I am being honest. My loyalty and sincerity and everything I can give and do for you are what I call ttering."

    "True." Aries rested the side of her head against his. "I do not know what I''d do without you, Abel."

    "The feeling is mutual, darling." He nted a quick side peck on her temple. "My sentiments are still the same, though. You already know I''d made sure you''ll be my empress; no need to use everyone as your pawns. You''re not in the Maganti Empire."

    "This is not the Maganti Empire, but my brother is still unconscious." Aries didn''t move and her voice was quiet, thinking about Dexter''s worrying condition.

    She knew vampires could sleep for a very long time; take Conan''s father for instance. He had been lying unconscious in the forbidden mansion for months now, and still showed no sign of regaining his consciousness. She heard it could evenst for years or decades. Worse. Centuries.

    "I know you''d secure my seat," she continued. "However, I don''t want this n to be gued by disparaging rumors. I will not sully the esteemed reputation of the House Vandran that he built all these years. My brother will wake up and hear his sister was a beloved empress, epted by all."

    Aries''s eyelids drooped as her eyes softened with bitterness.

    "Moreover, you had tarnished your reputation over and over again for me." She drew her head away from him, adjusting her position so she was sitting while facing him squarely. His arms around her waist remained with ease. "I want everyone to believe the emperor was fair for once, and I got the position fairly."<sub> </sub>

    "Fairly... but leaving everyone no choice?" Abel cocked his head to the side, his tone humorous. "Don''t get me wrong, darling. I fully support your ns, but I need to keep the conversation going to keep you here."

    "When everyone had no choice, all they could do was nod and agree, don''t you think?" Aries chuckled. "The people would not want someone who didn''t have a clean track record, right?"

    "Your track record isn''t as clean as you think, darling."

    "I didn''t say it wasn''t, but everyone sympathized with me." Aries poked the tip of his nose. "The poor Lady of the House Vandran, who just recovered from an illness was used by the emperor to attack the Marquess. As a result, she was forced to marry to anothernd where a revolt rose. And yet, she emerged from it alive and in one piece."

    "People think you are cursed. The curse of a beautiful woman born into a powerhouse."

    "Or they might think it was fate." Her eyshes fluttered ever so beautifully, like a butterfly pping its captivating wings. "People like all sorts of stories, darling. Some might think I was born cursed, and ought to live in misfortunes. Others might say otherwise and im it as fate, that no matter what sickness strikes me or where I''d go, I''d return here one way or another because this ce is where I belong."

    "Even the most obvious romanticized stories are being bought if the narrative was executed properly and ordingly," she added with a gentle smile. "If I convinced one or two, then those two would convince another two, and it starts to multiply until the entire nation forgets other ''irrelevant'' details to focus on this one."

    Aries leaned her face closer. "Isn''t that what you n, Your Majesty?"

    "Why... do you have to make it so hard to stop desiring you?" his voice was rasped with a tinge of hunger, leaning forward to bite her lower lips. "Make it quick, or I''m going to fetch you myself."

    Aries grinned against his lips, reopening her eyes to see him draw his head back.

    "I''ll be quick," she said, raising the quilt over her chest as she flung her legs out of the bed. When Aries stood on the side of the bed whilst holding the quilt, its other half was still covering Abel''sp.

    "Why cover yourself? I''ve seen everything. No need to be shy." Abel wiggled his brows yfully, holding the quilt in ce.

    "Fine." Aries carefully pulled the quilt away from her body, dropping it on the bed.

    He whistled as she stood bare for him to enjoy her naked glory. She shook her head, smiling, before turning to pick up her nightdress and cover-up draped over the armchair.

    "An hour." She stopped covering herself as he spoke, looking back at him who was still on the bed. "That''s the maximum I can wait for you. After that, expect to see me picking you up... no, fucking you on the spot with or without an audience."

    Aries rolled her eyes as she continued to slip her arms on the sleeve of her silk cover-up.

    "Thirty minutes is the longest," she said as she sauntered off. "Don''t miss me."

    "I already do, though." Abelughed, watching her leave the chambers. "I hope something happens. I would love to make love to her so everyone knows she''s mine."

    Abel copsed on the bed and stared at the ceiling. It was only been three minutes since she stepped out of the chambers when he felt bored.

    "I''m dying," he murmured with a dramatic sigh, thinking three minutes already felt three hours. "Should I visit Marse and see if she was able to crawl out of the grave where I buried her?"

 Chapter 630 Not So Fast, Princess.

    A resounding p caressed Aries''s ears the moment she stepped foot in the library in the Hyacinth. Her careful, soundless steps skidded to a halt as she reached a shelf, a space for tables and chairsing into full view.

    Over there, twodies were standing near the round table.

    ''Oh.'' Aries whistled, folding her arms as she leaned her side against the shelf. She kept her eyes on the twodies at a not-so-faraway distance.

    Thedies were facing each other: one had her face tossed to the side, her cheek was burning, the other one''s face was also burning in anger, smoldering, hands tightened into a fist.

    <o>,m "I knew it was you." Lady Ivory''s voice thundered as it shook, eyes full of fury. "How dare you?"</o>

    Princess Agnes calmly looked back at the fuming Lady Ivory, ignoring the red marks thetter''s hand left on her cheek.

    "Why are you furious, mydy?" she asked with genuine wonder in her voice. "The east district is under your jurisdiction, and yet, the food storage was burned down. Why are you ming me? When in the first ce, you should''ve seen such things from happening as the announcement is approaching."

    The corner of the princess''s lips curled without remorse. "me your ipetence and frail governance. If you can''t even protect this small district, how will you protect an empire?"

    "Youбн!" Lady Ivory raised a hand once again and unhesitatingly swung it toward the princess''s face. This time, however, her hand was stopped midway as a hand grabbed her wrist.

    "I took that first p to call it quits," said Princess Agnes, tightening her grip around Lady Ivory''s wrist. "One is enough, mydy."

    "I''m going to kill you," Lady Ivory remarked firmly, eyes glinting with growing resentment. "Do you think you''d get away from this? The emperor wouldn''t sit still бк"

    "The emperor wouldn''t care, mydy." A crafty smirk turned up on the princess''s face. "Why would he? As I''ve said, if you cannot protect this small town and allowed your opponents to make a score, that only shows your ipetence. I don''t think he would even want an ipetent person around his personal space."

    Princess Agnes took a step forward, reducing the distance between them.

    "You should thank me, though. Losing thispetition is far better than winning. Do you know, why? That is because if you made this sort of mistake as an empress, getting disqualified isn''t your biggest concern." She leaned her face closer and stressed her next words. "You and your entire house will be hanged."

    Lady Ivory''s breath hitched until her neck turned taut. Her eyes were still shaking in anger, but she didn''t look away from theck of remorse in the princess''s eyes.

    Princess Agnes let out a weak scoff, releasing thedy''s wrist.

    "You''re wee, mydy." Her smirk turned into a kind smile, sending fire into thedy''s blood to boiling point.

    "You will regret this," Lady Ivory warned whilst massaging her wrist. "I''ll make sure you''ll regret ever humiliating me."<sub> </sub>

    Princess Agnes shrugged offhandedly, making Lady Ivory shake in anger. However, thetter simply let out a sharp scoff before turning on her heel. As soon as she did, she paused, seeing that Aries was leaning against the shelf while watching them.

    Aries raised a book she got from the shelf, showing them she was there by coincidence.

    "Tch." Lady Ivory hissed before stomping away without faltering.

    As Lady Ivory walked past Aries, thetter quirked a brow. Aries nced over her shoulder, hearing the loud bang of the door as thedy mmed it closed. Another whistle slipped past Aries''s lips, looking back in the princess''s vantage point.

    "Your cheek will swell if you do not take care of it immediately," said Aries calmly to the princess. "Why would you even sell yourself out?"

    Aries slowly peeled her side against the shelf, sauntering toward the princess until she was standing before her. Her eyes shone satisfaction but also genuine wonder, studying the red mark Lady Ivory left on the princess''s cheek. She didn''t notice it until now that she was looking at the princess up close, that the corner of her lips also bled from that p.

    "Good thing she wasn''t wearing heavy jewelry." Aries snapped her eyes ever so tenderly at the princess. "She could''ve cut your stunning face, Princess."

    Princess Agnes'' expression was solemn, looking back at Aries sternly.

    "Isn''t reassurance what you want, mydy?" she returned with a tinge of sarcasm in her voice. "I don''t think she will win thepetition, and since she knew who was the person behind the incident in the east district, she''ll do everything to drag me down with her."

    "You have no more opponent for the title," she continued, balling her hand into a tight fist. "Did I prove myself worthy?"

    "Why are you angry, Princess?" Deep lines appeared in between Aries''s brows. "I didn''t tell you to go this far. I just told you to take out Lady Ivory, but there''s nowhere did I tell you to take away the people''s source of sustenance. That''s a stretch."

    "A stretchбн" Princess Agnes could not help but scoff in dismay, listening to how Aries shamelessly washed her hands clean. "The South is sending its ration since we had more than enough."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line and raised a hand. Her hand stopped midway as her brows rose, noticing how the princess stiffened. As expected, the princess only pulled up a false bravado and barely concealed her fear of inflicting pain again.

    "May I?" she asked while Princess Agnes lowered her eyes. Seeing her reaction, Aries took that as her silent consent. She carefully reached for the princess''s swelling and burning cheek, her cold palms somehow soothed it.

    "You did great, Princess," Aries crooned, her eyes narrowing. She observed how the princess looked back at her with shaking eyes, offering her a gentle smile. "Thank you for giving me the reassurance that I want."

    "Will you now tell me where is she?"

    "Not so fast, Princess." Aries shook her head, brushing the princess''s cheek with her thumb. "I still need you to do something."

 Chapter 631 Everything Comes With A Price

    "Not so fast, Princess. I still need you to do something."

    Princess Agnes''s heart thudded at Aries''s remark. Another request? What was it this time? Princess Agnes already had to grit her teeth whilst giving out her ruthless order just to prove herself to Aries. But it wasn''t enough, and she still had to do something.

    Doing a request from Aries wasn''t the problem, but the request itself. They were vicious. Princess Agnes was afraid the first request was just a warm-up or milder.

    "Don''t overthink." Aries chuckled as if she could read her mind. "I simply want you to attend the trial. The empire would surely investigate the matter."

    "You want me to take the me?" The princess''s body trembled, knowing that would drag her reputation and honor into the mud. "They will kill me."

    "No, of course not."

    "How are you certain they won''t?" Her voice shook as her hands balled into a tight fist. "The fire in the east district and the fact that I had endangered the people is enough to warrant me to stand on the gallows. Even if they banished me, my kingdom will not ept a disgrace like me."

    "But, at least, you have your freedom," Aries argued with a smile, almost making the princess choke on her own breath. "Without the empire and your kingdomбн you can run barefoot in a beautiful meadow and make gands freely."

    Princess Agnes stumbled back, her leg hitting the table nearby.

    "That''s not what I meant," she breathed out, looking back at Aries as if a mouse cornered by a hungry wild cat.

    "Princess, I think your desire for freedom isn''t what you want if that is the case." A shallow breath slipped past Aries''s lips, folding her arms under her chest. "You want to live a life with freedom, but you cannot let go of your luxurious life as a princess? Aren''t you a littleplicated and idealistic?"

    Princess Agnes ground her teeth with a desire to answer her, but s, she couldn''t. All she could do was stare at Aries''s nonchnt front.

    "To gain something, you have to sacrifice something. What you want isn''t a desire to help this woman you are looking for. The way I see it, you''re looking for her because of yourself." Aries didn''t beat around the bush as she made a lot of thinking about this.

    She didn''t know Princess Agnes, nor did she remember meeting her anywhere before the selection. Hence, she could only think that the princess heard her from someone that could bridge the two of them. Aries had a guess, although she hoped that wasn''t the case.

    "You want peace of mind, don''t you?" Aries continued indifferently. "It didn''t matter to you if she''s alive, living a humble life or if she was dead."

    "You do not know бк"<sub> </sub>

    "I think I do now, Princess." She cut the princess as her eyes grew icy. "And to be honest, I find this fake concern repulsive. You shouldn''t havee for my help, Your Highness, for I hate people like you the most. You act all high and mighty, righteous and virtuous, but behind that facade, you sneakily put the innocent in danger to get what you want."

    "Even though I cannot im innocence, I will not take full responsibility as well. I could do it myself if I wanted to, but my priority is different." The side of Aries''s lips curled up, ying with the tip of her hair with her finger. "I thought you''d do it differently, but what you didбн is far more reassuring. It was a surprise, but it works well for me."

    Princess Agnes gripped the edge of the table to keep herself from falling. She could only stare at Aries''s cunning smirk while realization slowly seeped deep into her bones. Ariesбн simply asked her to take out Lady Ivory, so she didn''t have to get involved once the trial started.

    Princess Agnes was certain she had left no tracks that would point the investigation to her. However, seeing Aries now, a part of her told her Aries had done something that would pin her.

    A total victory.

    That was what Aries wanted.

    And for her to achieve that, she used Princess Agnes to reveal Lady Ivory''s ipetence, but at the same time, if the princess was proven guilty, not only she would get disqualified but her father, the king, wouldn''t wee her back.

    "What did I do to you?" came out a shaking voice after a full minute of silence. "For you to leave me with nothing in my name, what did I do to you to deserve this?"

    Aries narrowed her eyes, showing zero hints of her answer.

    "Youбнsted long," was all Aries told her since Princess Agnes would still share the same fate whether or not she tried to negotiate with Aries. It just so happened the princess approached Aries first and spoke things that gave Aries the reason to use her without mercy.

    "You should''ve purposely failed, Your Highness. If only you did, you wouldn''t have to meet this side of me." Aries offered a subtle smile, but the harshness in her eyes remained. "Don''t worry. I will stay true to my words and tell you everything I know once the timees. And I will give you the freedom you sought half-heartedly."

    With that being said, Aries turned to leave because she couldn''t let Abele find her. She had already said her piece, so that was already enough. As Aries walked away, her steps slowed down until she paused.

    "There''s a reason people say be careful of what you wished for." Aries looked back at the princess and smirked when thetter faced lifted her eyes at her. "You don''t know who was listening and they might grant it to youбн with a price. Nothing is free in this world, and everythinges with a price, Your Highness."

    "May you have a good night and see you in the announcement. You''ll smile for me, yes?" Aries let out a weak chuckle, walking away in a much greater mood while Princess Agnes was left with nothing but regret.

 Chapter 632 Get Her Out Of My Sight

    Night and day came and fell alternatively quicker than normal. They postponed the announcement of who would be the empress for several days because of the investigation in the east district.

    The problem with Princess Agnes was that she underestimated the intel of the Haimirich Empire. Even if she left no evidence that would trace it back to her, Conan would always find the culprit. It was just a matter of time, and sadly, this issue was far too easy to challenge the emperor''s aide. Aries didn''t even need to do anything and let things unfold, especially with Lady Ivory''s insistence and participation in the investigation.

    Although Lady Ivory was apparently disqualified due to her ipetence. How could anyone want an empress who couldn''t even protect a small town? She would just be a useless marite in the empire.

    "For sabotaging and putting the lives of the emperor''s subject in danger... do you plead guilty for all these charges, Princess?" An official read the long list of crimes that they charged Princess Agnes.

    The dignified Princess Agnes was sitting on the lone chair in the middle of the court. Some nobles of the empire came to witness the trial, the emperor was also present, ministers and officials, the high priest of the church, and the candidates -- former and current candidates -- were all here to see how this trial would y out.

    Aries, along with Veronika, Sybil, Suzanne, Lady Ivory and herckeys, and Princess Agnes''s handmaiden, Fatima Wendell, watched everything unfold from the private room on the second floor. Aries was observing Fatima Wendell from the corner of her eyes and would swing her attention to the satisfied Lady Ivory.

    "Serves her right," Lady Ivorymented, and everyone in her vicinity heard her clearly.

    "What did you say?" Fatima Wendell was quick to retort.

    "Serves her right," Lady Ivory repeated, this time stressing each syble while smirking at Fatima Wendell. "Are you not listening to the empire''s concern? Your beloved Princess put the people in the east in danger just to make herself look good. Even if the problem was resolved and no one was hurt, the emperor and his subject aren''t deaf, blind, and mute to allow such a scheming and vile person to im the throne."

    "She always acts so high and mighty, but who would''ve thought her shell is the only good thing about her?" Lady Juliennemented sarcastically, chortling behind her hand fan.

    "You...!"

    "Enough." Aries snapped her eyes at Fatima Wendell the moment thetter sprung up from her seat in anger. "We are still in a trial. Unless you want to join the princess over there, go and start pulling each other''s hair."

    Fatima Wendel balled her hand into a tight fist, while Lady Ivory smirked mockingly. In the end, all Fatima could do was huff sharply before sitting down in her seat. Meanwhile, Aries shifted her eyes at the gaze on her side.

    Veronika was looking back at Aries silently, only to see thetter offer her a kind smile. Even though Aries hadn''t admitted herplete involvement in the recent incidents, Veronika was keen enough to put two and two together.

    Princess Agnes and Lady Ivory... fell into Aries''s traps. Strangely, that put Veronika''s heart at ease. Aries was capable and knew how to y; no wonder the smart and twisted Joaquin Imperial fell from his grace.

    After having quick eye contact with Veronika, Aries looked ahead.

    ''Funny, isn''t it, my love?'' she thought, setting her eyes at the princess sitting in the middle of the court. ''Princess Agnes and Lady Ivory had taken out most of the candidates until there''s just the three of us.''

    ''But now, those two had lost all the rights to im the crown.'' Abel''s amused voice rang in her head, ncing at the second floor from his throne. ''While you get the support you wanted.''

    The corner of his lips curled up before he set his attention before him. He propped his jaw against his knuckles, amusement fastening in his eyes.<sub> </sub>

    Aries''s action so far had lessened his burden to make her his empress. He could''ve just forced it in the first ce since no amount of opposition would even change his mind. However, the investigation period was enough to have time to jump to their own conclusion. All they had to do was give people ideas and let their imagination run wild... and then fuel it.

    In other words, for the past several days, people had suspected who could''ve done such a selfish deed in the east.

    When something bad happened, people would always look at the person who benefited the most, and that was Princess Agnes. The south had sent relief to help almost immediately, making everyone think how kind and capable she was of having more than enough for the south district. It made her name and reputation look good, to say the least.

    But just after a day, everyone started to doubt the princess and were enraged by her action, appealing to send <strong>"the vixen" </strong>out of the empire. Some had also voiced out that someone from the empire should take the seat of the empress, instead of an outsider.

    Lady Ivory was already proven ipetent. Therefore, there was only one candidate for everyone. Even though this could be Aries''s second marriage, her birthright, upbringing, and the merits she had gained throughout thepetition were enough to cover up the stain in her qualifications.

    It was just as Aries wanted.

    "Princess," called the minister, this time in a much firmer and darker tone.

    Princess Agnes had been looking down since the beginning. Upon the minister''s second call, she slowly raised her head. She then lifted her eyes to the second floor, only to meet Aries''s emotionless eyes. Her gaze veered to the other person among thedies, catching the teary-eyed Fatima, her handmaiden.

    Princess Agnes smiled subtly before facing ahead. Instead of the minister, she gazed directly at the emperor.

    "Yes," she said, and the crowd''s protest immediately erupted in the court. "I plead guilty to all the charges. It is true that I sabotaged Lady Ivory and also nned to do the same thing to the west district to make sure I win the selection."

    "Vixen!"

    "How can you do that to our empire?!"

    "Take her to the gallows! Her greed will bring nothing but disaster for our great empire!"

    The nobles and all the audiences who came couldn''t contain their growing disdain, shouting in unison, their voices loud, words cruel. All these were put to a halt when the emperor slowly rose to his feet.

    "Since you had admitted to your crimes, I will grant you mercy, for this empire will wee an empress, and shedding blood is a terrible way to start her reign." His lips stretched as his eyes shone with pride. "Since there''s only one candidate who was left, I would like to congratte the esteemeddy of the House Vandran."

    Abel raised his hand in the second floor''s direction. The crowd slowly turned their attention to Aries, seeing her slowly stand up and perform a curtsy. A round of apuse and cheers instantly erupted in the air as if they weren''t just requesting to execute someone a moment ago.

    "The coronation will be in three days'' time," he continued, retrieving his hand, and then gazed down at Princess Agnes. His smile faded and ayer of frost covered his eyes. "And her... get her out of my sight."

 Chapter 633 It Is Time For You To Take The Crown

    The selection was the easiest part, and Aries was aware of that. The preparation before the coronation was far too extensive not just for the empire but also for the empress. Aries had to go through an immense amount of self-care and a ton lot of ceremony and preparation; they were exhausting, barely able to catch a breath, but she managed.

    And just like that, the coronation rolled in.

    On the morning of the coronation, Aries was already up and going through extensive preparation even before the sun breaks to announce the start of a new day. Everything from head to toe, from her perfume down to thest piece of her shoes, was carefully selected; all to make the empress the most beautiful woman across the continent.

    Aries thought it would be an endless ceremony, but although the morning preparation felt infinite, she was granted a short time to rest before the start of the ceremony.

    Sitting in the armchair next to the bed, Aries gazed at Dexter''s side profile. It was a shame her brother wouldn''t be there to see her ascend the throne or hear the song of praises about her in the street.

    "That''s fine," she whispered, bending slightly over to hold his hand. "Once you wake up, you''ll hear more good things about me."

    Her eyes softened as her lips curled up into a smile, brushing his knuckles with her thumb. His condition had stabilized and his wounds healed slightly. She had dressed his wounds multiple times whenever she had the time, and the gut-wrenching sight of them always refuel her fire to be the most powerful to protect her people.

    "Don''t you worry," Aries continued, holding his hand with both her hands and resting it on her cheek. "I''ll do everything I can to help you regain your consciousness. I won''t let you sleep that long."

    She fluttered her eyshes as a thinyer of tears coated her eyes, but the amount was not enough to ruin her makeup. She had already cried a lot whenever she was sitting in this same chair and in this same room whilst holding his hand. But not today.

    Everyone was joyful, and the street of the capital had been having an ensuing festival. Even the people in the imperial pce and the high society shared the festivities. It was a good thing that Aries came from the aristocratic faction, therefore, they had fully supported her. The credit for that would all fall to Dexter and his strong affiliation with the fickle aristocrats.

    Even when Dexter had fallen unconscious, he still helped her one way or another, and she would always be grateful to him.

    "Mydy."

    Suddenly, Gustav''s voice resonated in her ears. The head butler beckoned a bow, standing several feet from the bed, his arm across his abdomen. When he straightened his back, his eyes instantly fell on the woman donning a beautiful dress adorned with countless heavy pieces of jewelry.

    "It is time for you to take the crown," he announced solemnly. "Your Majesty."

    Aries didn''t react immediately, having her eyes fixed on Dexter''s side profile. A minute had passed before she carefully released his hand, leaning back and turning her head in Gustav''s vantage point.

    "Assist me." She raised a hand, and Gustav didn''t hesitate to approach her. He carefully sped her hand, assisting her up.

    Her dress and the essories she was carrying were heavy, slowing down her movements. Gustav held her hand still as she stood, looking back at the marquess lying unconscious on the bed.

    "He''ll be so proud of you, Your Highness," Gustavmented, and Aries nodded while keeping her eyes on her brother.<sub> </sub>

    "I''ll make him the proudest," she whispered. "Once he wakes up, he can retire if he wants to."

    "I doubt he would."

    "But I''m giving him options." Aries slowly set her eyes on Gustav. "He had been the marquess and had always gritted his teeth dealing with the unreasonable emperor. Back then, he had no choice but toply with a heavy heart. It might not be for my sake initially, but I knew he had been working tirelessly all for my sake before this unfortunate event transpired."

    Gustav lowered his eyes. "I cannot disagree. The selection had always been his worry, and how it might leave you unhappy."

    "Therefore, I''ll be the happiest for him." The two of them sauntered off with Gustav matching her slow pace. "I know Abel would do his best to make me the happiest woman, but I''ll only achieve genuine delight and peace if none of the people I cherish were hurt."

    Aries''s eyes softened as they made their way out of the forbidden mansion via the secret passage to the Hyacinth pce. Because of her constant usage of the underground tunnel, Abel had put torches to grant her light and also to see her whilst making out in there.

    Their journey back to the Hyacinth Pce took some time as neither of them could hasten: Aries''s attire forced her to be modest, while Gustav held her hand and matched her pace. The usual sound of footsteps echoing paled inparison with the dangling pieces of jewelry on her dress hitting each other at her every step.

    "Should I tell the maids to take off a few jewelry?" he inquired as they neared the exit of the tunnel, the stairs back to her chambersing into full sight. "The amount of them was unlike the usual amount you wear daily."

    "There''s no need for that," she returned, casting him a sidelong nce. "The weight of the crown is far heavierpared to this, don''t you think?"

    "I cannot deny."

    "Don''t worry about me, Gustav. After my coronation, the emperor and I will be in a parade." Aries carefully set her eyes ahead and stopped in front of the first step of the stairs while Gustav took the first step.

    "Careful, Your Majesty," he reminded her, watching her weight as he patiently assisted her to take the stairs without falling. Once they reached thest step and they were back to the chamber in the Hyacinth Pce, Aries faced him.

    "Although this coronation is rtively peaceful, supported by the majority, I cannot becent. I want you to take guard of the forbidden mansion," she ordered, and Gustav could only bow.

    p "As you wished, Your Highness."</anda>

    Aries nodded in satisfaction as he allowed him to assist her to the chamber. It was almost empty, having only Gertrude to wee them back.

    "Wee back, mydy бк I mean, wee back, Your Majesty." Gertrude politely bowed with both her hands on her abdomen. "Your escorts are waiting for you outside."

 Chapter 634 Its Not Bad

    "Your escorts are waiting for you outside."

    Aries nodded once again and smiled, seeing that Gertrude was wearing a simple yet elegant dress as the Queen''s head maid instead of the usual maid attire. She didn''t point it out, though, gazing back at Gustav.

    Thetter got her silent hint and assisted her towards the door. Once she was standing before it, Gustav carefully let her go to open it. As the loud creak of the door caressed her ears, two good and strong-looking knights stood before it, bearing their dignified demeanor.

    Both knights wore the same uniform but carried different insignia. One wore the badge of the emperor''s royal knight, and the other for the empress.

    "Congrattions, Your Majesty." Climaco ced his fist across his chest and beckoned a neck bow.

    "Congrattions, Your Majesty." Roman also performed a formal greeting.

    "I''m d to see you both doing well and here to assist me." Aries smiled subtly, watching the two straighten their backs. "Shall we?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty. Everyone had been waiting with bated breaths," Climaco responded with a tinge of humor, making her chuckle slightly.

    "Let''s go."

    With that being said, Aries walked ahead while Climaco and Roman stepped to the side to give way to her. No one held Aries''s hand to assist her, walking ahead, having two capable knights walking behind her. There were knights standing guards on either side of the hallway only to follow her tracks, walking on the back of the procession of knights escorting the empress to the great throne hall where she would wear her crown.

    The procession to the coronation took time at Aries''s snail-like pace. But no one told her to hasten, considering the amount of weight she was carrying. That dress and those jewelries would be just as heavier as a knight''s full armor, and thus, everyone could only be patient.

    No matter how long it took, they still arrived at their destination. As soon as Aries stood in front of the entrance of the throne hall, the knights following her dispersed to their posts, standing guard around the area. With such an amount of imperial knights guarding this ce, it would be harder to crash the coronation without an invitation than going through the eye of a needle.

    Aries nced over her shoulders where Climaco and Roman were standing. The two of them didn''t quickly move until thest knight on their backs left to return to their post. After that, both of them walked past Aries, holding each door for her.

    <o>,m "Tell us once you''re ready, Your Majesty," Climaco remarked kindly, knowing his master and giving her time to process everything. If this was a different knight, they would''ve just instantly opened the door. Roman also didn''t act hastily and simply gazed at the empress.</o>

    Her expression was unsmiling, gazing at the thick doors she hadn''t entered before. She had been in the imperial pce, but Aries doesn''t recall entering the throne hall through this door. The coronation wasn''t just a coronation but also a wedding, legalizing her marriage with the emperor.

    "Open the doors," she ordered. Her tone was soft but firm.

    Climaco and Roman looked at each other and nodded. After a second, Roman knocked against the door. The person standing on the other side of the door announced the second he heard the knock, "the Lady of the House Vandran had arrived!"

    The man''s voice was loud, piercing through the thickness of the doors for Climaco, Roman, and Aries to hear. As soon as the man made his announcement, Climaco and Roman took a breath, pushing through the heavy doors with their strength.

    The creak it made sounded louder in Aries''s ears, keeping her eyes on the widening gaps of the door, until countless people came into her full view. Aries didn''t waste a breath as she stepped foot inside, keeping her eyes ahead to the raised tform where multiple people stood around it.

    Aries made a quick look and caught two familiar figures: Conan and Isaiah. Both of the king''s hands were standing on the step-ups along with a few important figures of the empire. From her peripheral, many nobles whom she didn''t know attended. It was a wedding and a coronation. What did she expect?<sub> </sub>

    Her eyes then slowly veered up as she continued her slow steps.

    There, on the raised tform, were two golden thrones. One was empty while the other, the bigger one, was upied by the most powerful man across the continent: the emperor.

    Abel fixed his eyes on the woman walking down the carpet. Her expression was solemn, but the fire in her eyes was brighter than the zing afternoon sun during the summer.

    "Will you look at that?" he murmured, simpering. "If this was someone else, she''d fall even before she could even reach this seat."

    For the emperor, the look in her eyes and how she looked at him was quiteбн insulting. It was as though she was looking at her stepping stone. But well, his rotten heart was too weak to take offense.

    His empress was dazzling, and even when this wedding leaned more on the coronation, he couldn''t wait for the honeymoon.

    Abel''s eyes slowly lowered as she stopped in front of the step up. Aries slowly bent down to her knees, greeting him out of formality.

    ''Good work,'' hemented in his head, rubbing the armrest of the throne before pushing himself up.

    "Months ago, the empire had invited fifty remarkabledies across the continentбн" Abel started his sentiments as he stood on the raised tform. When the atmosphere felt right, he slowly descended the stairs until he was standing before her.

    "... thedy of the House Vandran had proven herself time and time again she''s capable, fitting for the title of bing my wife and the empress, the mother of this nation." Abel nced to his side, seeing Conan approach him with a cushion in his hands and a crown on top of it.

    "Therefore, with a joyful heart, I bestow the crown which weighs the responsibility of countless lives..." He carefully ced the crown on Aries''s head, and a round of apuse instantly erupted in the air.

    Aries didn''t stand immediately as some chosen officials approached Aries, speaking their promise to assist her and such whilst wrapping the royal mantle around her. And then, rings and pieces of jewelry they put on her bearing the insignia of the empress. Lastly, the emperor offered his hand, which she sped with reserved elegance, standing with his help.

    His eyes shone with adoration as she lifted her beautiful gaze, smiling, handing her a baton. Once she received it, Abel took her hand, assisting her to the throne. But just as they reached thest step, Abel and Aries stopped and looked back at the hall.

    People were pping, bearing their weing smiles.

    "Pay respect to the Empress," Conan shouted sternly, and everyone slowly went down to their knees; men bowing, women curtsying.

    "All hail Her Majesty, the Empress! All hail His Majesty, the Emperor!"

    Abel smirked and pulled her hand closer, only to whisper in her ear. "So? How''s the view from here?" he teased.

    Aries smiled, casting him a quick side-eye. "It''s not bad."

 Chapter 635 The Royal Procession

    After the coronation, it was a tradition in the Haimirich Empire for the emperor and empress to have a parade in the street of the capital. It was an auspicious event that wasn''t just exclusive to the nobles but also for the people of the empire to celebrate.

    After many years of waiting... they would finally wee an empress.

    People from all stages anddders of life thronged the sidewalks to have a glimpse of the empress and the emperor. Excitement and joy sparkled in everyone''s eyes. Children held hand gs of the Haimirich Empire and each building also raised its gs, which would tter whichever direction the wind blew.

    Men had either celebrated with booze or practiced abstinence to be able to see the royal procession. Women had brought gands or a basket full of flowers to throw in the street or to the monarchs as a gesture of love and respect for them.

    Despite that winter was approaching, today''s weather seemed to have participated; it wasn''t cold or hot; it was just right for everyone to enjoy the asion despite arge number of people in the street. Everyone assumed it was a great start for this monumental event for the empire.

    "They''reing!" someone yelled his lungs out, making everyone turn to the end of the street.

    Seeing that the lead carriage and its helmed horses came into sight, a loud cheer exploded in the air.

    "Long live Her Majesty, the Empress! Long live His Majesty, the Emperor! All hail Haimirich!"

    Those who brought freshly plucked flowers threw them in the air, which fell on the street, granting a much more beautiful color for everyone to see. Children climbed house pipes or the stacked-up crates to have a glimpse of the procession. Others squeezed themselves to the front.

    The royal procession''s highlight was the emperor and empress, but there were a few esteemed nobles who took part in the event. For instance, the Grand Duke of Fleure, Isaiah. He was on a chariot that was just right behind the leading carriage, donning a pleasing uniform with a brooch that had an embedded insignia of the House Darkmore. His vehicle''s door and on the back also had a huge insignia for everyone from the farthest row of the crowd to recognize whose vehicle it was.

    Isaiah stood motionless, eyes ahead, ignoring the cheers and the looks of people. However, his other senses were on high alert. Even though this procession was for the people to meet the newly crowned empress, it was still dangerous not just for the monarchs but for the nobles who took part in the parade.

    There might be knights escorting each carriage and riding their steeds on either side of the street. Someone бк if he was capable бк could break through to harm the nobles and royalty. Hence, Isaiah didn''t bask in the glory of people''s cheers, even though there were a few who called his name the Empire''s hero.

    The carriages behind Isaiah were a few nobles from esteemed houses varying from a duke, marquess, marchioness, and so on riding their luxurious Landau with its hood let down. In the middle of the procession was a golden royal Landau where the Empress and Emperor, still wearing their crowns and royal mantles and carrying their batons, waved at their subjects. Several more carriages were following behind them.

    "Long Live Her Majesty, the Empress! Long Live the Emperor! All hail the royal family! All hail Haimirich!"

    "Grand Duke Isaiah! May the heavens bless Your Grace!"<sub> </sub>

    "Marquess! Thank you for the reliefsбн!"

    Everyone shouted until everything sounded indistinct, but the greetings and best wishes of the monarchs still dominated the air. Aries and Abel waved, letting some flowersnd inside their open golden carriage and some on theirp.

    "Disgusting," Abelmented quickly, putting his hand down as a daisynded on hisp.

    "Keep your smile, darling," Aries spoke whilst keeping her smile, putting down her arm to let it rest for a while. "People might think you were unhappy about your new empress. Cut me some ck, will you? Thest thing I want to deal with in the early days of my reign is a disparaging rumor about our unhappy marriage."

    Abel cast her a sidelong nce with a delicately arched brow. Aries was still waving and smiling.

    "Did you hear her, self?" he asked himself, turning his head to stare at her squarely. He was the only one who had the gall to shift his attention from public service. "Why did you make her an empress again? Rightбн that is to avoid getting kicked out of her bed."

    Abel nodded in agreement, almost making her roll her eyes. For goodness'' sake! They were outside, which would be a rare asion for the two of them. They should give this time to smile and wave at the people who went out of their way to see them! That was the least they could do.

    Seeing that she chose to ignore him, mischief flickered across his eyes. He didn''t care about this parade, honestly. He was only doing this because he had to give his empress some face.

    "You''re afraid of rumors, huh?" he said quietly, which didn''t reach her ears because of the noise in the street. The side of his lips curled up, looking at the side of the street, shing the crowd an oddly kind smile.

    As soon as the people on the side of the street saw the emperor''s smile that didn''t suit his tyrant reputation, another wave of cheer, much louder than the previous one, erupted in the air. Meanwhile, as the cheers took off, Aries''s smile stiffened as she felt a squeeze on her thigh.

    Despite the thick royal mantle on top ofyers of dresses, Abel made sure she felt his scious intentions. Without looking at his hand, she pped it away. But he didn''t budge, ripping a small part of her skirt with his long and sharp nail, which grew on its own, until his fingertip felt her thin stockings.

    "Abelбн" Aries called through her gritted teeth, feeling his finger hook her stocking to lower it. When she couldn''t take it anymore, she turned her head to him, only to freeze, seeing him already leaning over his face with a mischievous grin.

    "The emperor couldn''t get enough of the empress and he couldn''t take his eyes off of herбн" he dawdled as mischievousness shone in his pair of crimson eyes. "How''s that for a headline, darling?"

 Chapter 636 The Royal Procession II

    "The emperor couldn''t get enough of the empress and he couldn''t take his eyes off of herбн How''s that for a headline, darling?"

    Abel''s eyes narrowed, cupping her cheek before leaning his face forward. Her eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as he rolled his tongue inside her mouth, clutching his shoulder de on instinct.

    "All Hail бк kyaaah!"

    "Long Live His and Her Majesty!! May the heavens bless this empire!"

    Another wave of cheers exploded upon seeing the emperor kiss the empress for everyone to see. Women blushed at His Majesty''s enthusiasm while men shouted for encouragement. Abel was not only known as a tyrant, but also a man with a promiscuous lifestyle.

    Since these not-so-secret affairs of the emperor didn''t affect his ruling, it only becamemon knowledge that everyone didn''t give much importance. Therefore, seeing the emperor passionately locked lips with their empress, everyone was reassured their wedding would only bring good to the empire.

    As the cheers continued, Abel slowly and reluctantly parted his lips from her. His lips were curled into a triumphant grin, assessing her hrious reaction.

    "I''ve always wanted to do that in front of everyone," he said, wiping the corner of her lips with his thumb. "And let them know youбн are mine. Only."

    Aries blinked twice as she processed what had just happened. Her eyes made a quick scan of her surroundings discreetly, and hearing the louder cheers and the blessings of their people for a wonderful union, she smiled.

    "You caught me off guard." She didn''t raise her voice despite the echoing shouts in the street. "What are you going to do with my ripped skirt?"

    He smirked. "The royal mantle will do its job."

    "Behave." Aries pinched his thigh but kept her smile. "This dress is already heavy enough, and having an orgasm while having to keep up a smile will be torturous."

    "But I''mбн bored, darling."

    "Abel." Her pinch on his thigh tightened, twisting it a bit. "The night will fall, eventually. Ever heard patience is a virtue?"

    "Fortune favors the bold, darling," he argued with raised brows, but the unchanging look in her eyes told him a firm, "no."

    Abel frowned a bit, letting out a shallow breath.

    "Fine," he said, leaning back and adjusting his seat. "I''ll wait for the honeymoon."

    "Thank you." Aries smiled in satisfaction, facing the side of the street, and waved. "It''ll be hard for them to create a new rumor that this union is done with a heavy heart."

    "Oh, darling. Even if I didn''t do what I did, everyone in the imperial pce will definitely know how much I adore my wife." Abel crooned indifferently, ncing at the children on the other side of the street. His naturally sharp expression was swiftly reced with a smile, waving at them.

    The curiosity in the children''s faces brightened up. They only heard stories about him, and not all tales about the emperor were positive. But after seeing him smile at them and they felt their ''small'' existence was seen by such an esteemed figure, some of them ran, following the procession.<sub> </sub>

    "How adorable," hemented, seeing how silly the children were. "I wonder what ours will look like?"

    "What, ours?" Aries looked back at him, only to see him staring at the children following their carriage. That second, a pang instantly struck her heart, knowing bearing his child was impossible.

    "Oh, darling, don''t be sad." Abel slowly shifted his eyes to her and offered a warm smile. "I''m not in a hurry to have children. It was just a thought I had in passing, but it was irresponsible of me to blurt that out. Forgive me."

    "It''s fine, love. I understand." Her smile was meek, looking away from him. Although her expression didn''t change, a string in her heart was tugged with bitterness.

    Aries raised her brows when she felt his hand hold hers. When she looked down, she caught him moving their intertwined hands on hisp. Her eyes slowly moved up, only to see him looking at their surrounding.

    "It''s not impossible," he said quietly, and for some reason, despite the echoing cheers around, she heard him loud and clear. Abel let out another shallow breath, casting her a knowing look.

    "Starting a familyбн is not impossible, darling. Therefore, do not me yourself. We''ll do it once we had a serious conversation about it, and we''re both ready for it." Abel winked at her, pulling their hands from his pocket to ce a peck on her knuckles. "Let''s enjoy each other for now."

    Aries drew her lips into a thin, tight sh, gazing at him intently. Ever since she came to know he was different, Aries had always wondered if her situation of bearing a child would still be a problem. Although she had embraced the fact she might not be a mother, the thought would always cross her mind, which she normally wouldn''t entertain.

    There were also times she wanted to ask him if they could start a family since Abel was not human. But the fear that she was simply holding on to hope she made up herself often overwhelmed her. Hence, she didn''t broach this topic, and he didn''t mention it too.

    The reason Aries wasn''t that surprised upon hearing hisst remarks. She wasn''t even angry at him, knowing Abel never had such thoughts of fathering an heir бк his heir. But now that he brought it up himself, a part of her heart was touched.

    "Mhm," she hummed a soft tune, looking away from him. "Once we''re ready, let''s talk about it."

    Both of them held each other''s hands while using the other to wave at the people. The cheers continued until some people had already lost their voices. So far, they had met no trouble until minutester, Aries looked up.

    As soon as she did, she gripped Abel''s hand tighter as her lips parted.

    "Climaco," she whispered, and the knight riding a steed on the side of their carriage jumped out of it in a sh. Gasped from the crowd distorted the continuous cheers as a child who climbed up on one of the house''s pipes fell from it. Fortunately, Climaco was quick to act upon Aries''s call and caught the child in the nick of time.

    Aries was still gripping Abel''s hand until her hand turned white while his hand turned red. She kept her focus on the house pipe.

    "It''ll fall on the carriage ahead of ours," she whispered.

    "Halt!" From the front, Isaiah suddenly yelled, and all the knights yelled the same to ry the message to thest knight of the procession. People were slightly confused and even the nobles who were part of the parade.

    "Roman," Abel whispered, letting his wife grip his hand while he followed her gaze. She kept that pipe from falling and hurting the innocents, yet his focus differed from Aries''s current concern. "That pipe will hurt my wife if you don''t do anything about it."

 Chapter 637 A Tyrant Like You Must Die!

    The procession came to aplete halt as several knights went to hold the house pipe where the child fell. Since the metal was old and rusting, it did not surprise the knights that it was on a brink of falling apart. What surprised them was that the house pipeбн should''ve snapped and fallen at the extra weight of the child. However, it didn''t.

    Little did they know, Aries breathed out heavily when the knights supported the pipe. Her hand turned cold due to her tight grip and the pressure of keeping that pipe from falling.

    "You did not have to do that." Her brows rose when Abel''s calm yet dark voice caressed her ear. "The knights could have done something before it can hurt anyone."

    Aries looked back at him. "I know that, but I want this procession бк or this day to run as smoothly as possible. People are fickle and this might not seem important, but it will register in people''s minds. I don''t want this incident to be used as some sort of missed detail if they want to me me once something bad happens in the future."

    Abel opened his lips but ended up closing them again. He knew her unyielding resolve in keeping the House Vandran as blemish free as possible. The house the empress came from would always be a part of anything that she would or wouldn''t do, and therefore, he understood and respected her resolve.

    "You did a good job," he praised calmly, holding her cold hand to keep them warm.

    "Thank you." Her lips curled up subtly, pleased this didn''t turn out to be another argument.

    "Your Majesty." Aries and Abel slowly turned their heads to Aries''s side when Climaco approached their carriage. "The child was safe."

    "Good work, Climaco." Aries nodded in satisfaction, raising her brows upon seeing a woman and the child behind Climaco.

    "Your Majesty," called the woman with a shaking voice, bowing to the monarchs with the child. "Thank you for saving this child. I may sound insolent, but he''s but a child. If he is going to be punished, please punish me instead."

    "I wasn''t the one who saved this child, but this knight right here," Aries replied calmly, gesturing for Climaco to open the door for her.

    Despite being confused, Climaco opened the door for her. She raised a hand, and he sped it, assisting Aries as she hitched outside the carriage. Murmurs and surprise echoed from the crowd behind the woman and her child, anticipating what the empress would do.

    Would she punish them? If so, the people didn''t know what to feel about that. However, one was already aware the opinion would be split. One might disapprove of such cruel punishment, but another might disagree. The child''s action nearly endangered not just other people, but also the nobility. If the knights weren''t quick to react, that pipe could''ve snapped and fallen in the royalty''s carriage. It would be a disaster if that happened.

    Aries gazed down at the woman and the little boy. As soon as those two felt her gaze on their back, they trembled in fear. Aries lifted her eyes to her side as Abel stood beside her, casting her a cursory look before shifting his eyes to the pipe the knights were carrying.

    "Are you his mother?" she asked, shifting her attention to the woman and the boy.<sub> </sub>

    "No, Your Majesty. He is my little brother. Our parents already left this world years ago, so I am the only one who is left to take care of him."

    "If you are the only one who takes care of himбн" Aries carefully offered her hand. "Why are you bowing and asking me to take your life?"

    "Your Majesty?" the woman raised her head, surprise apparent in her dted eyes. But just as she met two pairs of eyes gazing down at her: one was a pair of soft green while the other pair was a bright crimson, the woman nearly choked in her own breath. She immediately lowered her head, knowing she shouldn''t have raised her head or met the royalty''s eyes without permission.

    "You may raise your head," Aries chuckled softly. "Take my hand and rise from the ground. Don''t beg for death, but for mercy. No one will take care of your little brother if you followed your parents."

    The woman slowly raised her head again. Herplexion was pale, lips quivering. The second her eyes met Aries''s soft eyes again, her heart was moved to tears.

    "How can these filthy hands dare touch Your Majesty''s hand?" she blurted out, only to flinch when Aries chuckled.

    "Then are you refusing my help?" Aries cocked her head to the side, only for her eyes to slide to the corner, when Abel chimed in.

    "That will be rude," he said, offering a slightly humble smile, which surprised not thedy but also everyone who had seen it. "When an opportunityes knocking right at your door, or if someone reached their hand out to help you, don''t refuse it. You don''t know when will someone help you again or when the opportunity opens up for you again бк it might not."

    The woman darted her eyes between the emperor and the empress бк even the crowd, who went silent and on their knees in the presence of the monarchs, were listening attentively. They couldn''t help but raise their head, only to see the emperor and the empress reach their hands out to the poor, dirty woman to help her stand up.

    Everyone knew what sort of emperor this empire had: ruthless, assertive, and unsympathetic. They had a clear image of Abel, and he wasn''t someone who should be asked for mercy, but a quick and painless death. But right now, that tyrant image slowly cracked with an empress by his side.

    "I will forever serve this empire and will be forever grateful for Her and His Majesty." the woman stood in front of them, her hands resting on her little brother''s shoulders. "Long Live, Your Majesty, the Empress! Long Live, Your Majesty the Emperor!"

    As the woman bowed, guiding her little brother to do the same, she raised her voice to praise the monarchs. Hearing the woman''s sentiments, the people who were still on their knees cheered in unison until their voices echoed.

    Aries and Abel looked at each other, smiling candidly. But just as they peeled their eyes away from each other, an angry voice distorted the united cheering.

    "A tyrant like you must die!"

 Chapter 638 A Leopard Doesnt Change Its Spot

    "A tyrant like you must die!"

    When Aries and Abel turned to the owner of the voice, all they saw was a man charging at them with a knife in his hand. Everything happened so quickly, taking everyone by surprise.

    The echoing cheers abruptly turned into gasps and, for a moment, there was just a pin-drop silence. The next second, blood dripped down andnded on the ground, followed by the shouts of knights as they subdued the person who attacked the emperor.

    "Ugh!!" the assaulter grunted, eyes filled with a deep resentment as he struggled against the knight бк Climaco бк pinning him to the ground. Several more knights rushed to them, surrounding the man with swords, others to protect the empress and the emperor.

    "Your Majesty!" Aries panicked, standing before Abel. Her eyes shook, seeing that the man grazed the emperor''s arm. Fortunately, Abel was quick to react and used his arm to block the knife.

    "Insolent!!"

    Suddenly, Isaiah''s voice erupted, followed by the sound of a sword being unsheathed heavily. Aries nced in his voice''s direction, only to see the furious grand duke marching towards them. She had never seen Isaiah lose hisposure, even though Conan and Dexter habitually mock him.

    Aries didn''t have the leisure to dwell in it, though. She set her shaking eyes back to Abel, only to see him click his tongue in irritation, but didn''t seem to mind his bleeding arm.

    "Abelбн" her voice shook, making him look back at him.

    "It''s just a graze, darling." He smiled reassuringly. "I''m fine."

    The moment she heard his response, her heart instantly shook, realizing why Abel was so furious every time she would utter those words. <strong>''It was just a graze,'' </strong>бк the intention was good, but it was definitely not reassuring enough. It was insulting and somehow made her blood boil.

    ? "How dare you attack His Majestyбн" the knights surrounding the attacker that Climaco was pinning down made way for Isaiah. At this point, everyone бк knights and the citizens included бк already anticipated an on-the-spot execution. The grand duke wouldn''t definitely let this slide.

    "This monster should die!" Despite the presence of the furious Isaiah and the sword he was holding, the man barked fearlessly. "He should be loathed, and not be praised! This man and his tyranny need to be stoppedбн!"

    The man rambled on and on, digging his own grave deeper and deeper. Isaiah''s body trembled as he listened to the man''s nonsense ramblings, but he didn''t stop him. The grand duke simply fixed his zing eyes at him, motionless, as if giving the man a chance to lose his voice before taking that ability from him permanently.

    "Your Majesty," another knight called quietly as he approached the emperor, carrying an emergency kit for things such as this. However, as Abel undid his cufflinks and folded his sleeve to his elbow, he caught her shoulder tense up upon the sight of his wound.

    "Hey, gorgeous," he called calmly, lowering his eyes, searching for her eyes. "It didn''t hurt. I''m alright."

    Her jaw tightened and said nothing. Aries only reached for his arm andid her other hand open.

    "Let me do it," she muttered, and the knight immediately handed him a bottle to sanitize the wound. As soon as she held the bottle, Aries saw Isaiah take a step from the corner of her eyes.

    "Your Grace!" she raised her voice, stopping Isaiah''s steps. "Let the man speak and I would want to personally deal with him after I dressed His Majesty''s wounds."

    Isaiah gripped his sword tighter, swallowing the frustrating tension in his throat. He kept his eyes on the man, his shoulders trembling in anger. If Aries forgave this man, Isaiah would definitely disobey her and kill the man. It would be a scandal and he would be in trouble, but he wouldn''t allow this to slide.<sub> </sub>

    Abel might not be a stranger to assassination attempts and danger, but that was within the pce''s walls. If they let this man go or grant him a lighter sentence, it would only motivate those who were wishing for the emperor to fall.

    Silence descended on the street that was initially filled with joyful cheers. Aries also kept tight-lipped, dressing up Abel''s wound. The emperor, on the other hand, cocked his head to the side, assessing what his wife could be thinking at the moment.

    Once Aries finished bandaging Abel''s arm, she lifted her eyes to him.

    "I''m sorry," she whispered, cupping his face, eyes full of affection and nonchnce about the countless eyes around them. "It''s just a grazeбн let''s not say those insulting words again, my emperor."

    His brows rose, taken aback at the realization she had, which he didn''t intentionally do.

    "Mhm." His eyes softened as the sincerity in her eyes moved his heart. "I''ll make them taboo."

    Aries forced a meek smile, rocking her head in understanding.

    "Wait for me here," she muttered, causing his brow to arch as she faced the person who assaulted him. But before Aries took a step, she looked back at the woman and her little brother.

    "Cover his eyes," was all the woman heard from the empress, which she did on instinct. Her gaze followed the empress''s figure as she approached the person who assaulted the emperor.

    Climaco kept his knees on the man''s back and his hand on the back of his head. The other person was still grumbling about his preaches and how everyone was blind to even consider the emperor a good person.

    "Your Majesty." Isaiah lowered his head, facing Aries when she stood beside him. "Why did you stop me?"

    Aries didn''t respond and simply kept her eyes on the man struggling underneath Climaco.

    "A leopard doesn''t change its spot!" shouted the man furiously, looking back at Aries while grinding his teeth. "Hah бк ugh! What are you doing here?! If you think you can ask me for forgiveness, you''re wrong! I do not regret fighting for this empire and for my people! Bring that tyrant to me! I''ll kill him!"

    "Youбн!" Climaco sped a portion of the man''s hair as he pressed his head against the ground heavily.

    "A leopard doesn''t change its spot," Aries whispered while Abel stretched his neck to take a glimpse of her back. "I agree with thatбн"

    Aries took a careful step, approaching the man who attacked her husband.

    "It seems you have a misconception of me, Mister," she added, snatching a knight''s spare sword that was clinging to his hips. "I will not ask you to reflect on your actions, neither did I n to hear your forgiveness and reasons."

    Aries stopped in front of the man, her face devoid of any emotion. Seeing that, the man''s mouth fell open, catching the glint of the tip of the de as she held it vertically, its tip pointing down at him.

    "The moment you raise your weapon to the people I care about, you have already lost the right to exin your side." As soon as those rolled out her tongue, Aries unhesitatingly struck the man straight to his nape.

 Chapter 639 Lets Try Mutual Oral Sex

    "The moment you raise your weapon to the people I care about, you have already lost the right to exin your side." As soon as those words rolled out of her tongue, Aries unhesitatingly struck the man straight at his nape.

    Fortunately, Climaco was quick to remove his hand from the back of the man''s head. If not, she would''ve struck his hand as well.

    And with that, blood instantly pooled underneath the man''s body.

    For the next full minute, a pin-drop silence reigned in the surrounding, eyes fixed on the empress, who struck a man which instantly silenced him. Isaiah''s eyes dted, surprised at Aries''s response to the situation. Even Climaco had his mouth agape, looking up at the empress, who didn''t bat an eye in executing the man on the spot.

    Aries held the sword''s handle, pulling it out, which resulted in more blood gushing out of the man''s throat and nape. She calmly held the sword to the side, and the knight who owned it snapped back to reality. The knight jogged to her side, receiving the sword while red fluid dripped from its tip.

    "Mercy is granted to those who deserve it." Her voice snapped everyone back to the currentpse, eyes glossing over the knights and then at the people on the side. "However, severe punishment is guaranteed to those who don''t."

    She pointed a finger at the dead man. "This man not only insulted me, the empress but also assaulted the emperor. But the most unforgivable of all was that this attempt could disrupt the peace this empire and the people had. Yet, even at thest second of his life, he didn''t show remorse for his actions. Therefore, he deserved to receive the worst punishment this empire could give to someone."

    "His Majesty had always protected his people, and today, I also made an oath to be a part of his governance and support him with everything I can to make this empire greater than ever," Aries continued, her voice firm and intimidating. "Anyone who disrupts or even attempts to disrupt the empire''s peace will receive the heaviest punishment."

    "Duke Darkmore." Aries nced over her shoulder. "Identify this man and arrest his entire lineage. This man''s sins will be borne for three generations. Investigate everyone who knows him and if you find out, they knew this man''s ns, take them to the gallows."

    Hearing her ruthless yet satisfactory order, Isaiah lowered his head. "As you wished, Your Majesty."

    "May this be an example to everyone!" Aries didn''t dwell on Isaiah''s answer to face the people, her voice thundering. "There''s nothing to fear if you did nothing wrong. However, if you do or if you know someone who ns to cause disharmony for the empire, you will be just as responsible if you kept silent."

    "The good will be rewarded, but those who carry malice to the people, to the empire, and to the royal family will be punished severely." A deep exhale followed her remarks, looking at everyone sharply.

    There was a moment of silence after Aries''sst remarks, and for seconds, everyone could only stare at her nkly.

    "All hail Her Majesty, the Empress!" a woman''s voice erupted, and everyone instinctively followed the source. There, they saw the woman with her little brother going down on her knees. "All hail His Majesty, the Emperor! All hail the great Haimirich!"

    As the woman repeated her loud praises, others also followed until the cheers returned. If they didn''t witness the empress''s empathy for the child and the woman, they would have conflicting feelings about her ruthless action. However, even though Aries instilled this seed of fear in their hearts, they believed her action and orders were justified.

    If they didn''t want the queen''s wrath, one shouldn''t touch her bottom line. Otherwise, anyone could end up just like that man. If they lived ordingly without breaking the rules or disrupting the harmony of the empire, one shouldn''t worry too much.

    As the people slowly epted that their empress wasn''t only kind, but could also be ruthless бк a quality of being a strong empress бк Aries nodded in satisfaction. When she turned, she caught Isaiah looking in her direction. She only cast him a side eye, but said nothing, before marching back to Abel.

    "Let''s continue the procession?" Abel asked, a strong sense of pride twinkling in his eyes.<sub> </sub>

    "Mhm. Does your arm hurt?" she returned, and he shook his head weakly as an answer. "Then, let''s continue."

    "Mhm." Abel handed his hand, which she sped carefully. But before he guided her to the carriage, Aries turned to the woman and her brother.

    "Don''t stay outside for too long," said Aries, watching the woman raise her head. "Keep yourself warm."

    "Thank you for thinking of us, Your Majesty." The woman smiled warmly, showing no sign of fear for Aries despite witnessing what the empress was capable of. "We will always be forever grateful for your kindness."

    Aries rocked her head, keeping her smile as she faced Abel.

    "Shall we?" Abel tilted his head to the side, and this time, Aries answered him with a nod.

    With that being said, Abel guided his empress back to the carriage like a gentleman. Behind them were knights dragging the body of the man, which they loaded onto a knight''s steed to hang it to make it an example for those who had the same silly ideas.

    After some time, the procession resumed, and Isaiah returned to his carriage. The pipe was already resolved and the people''s cheers were louder, as if someone didn''t lose his life in the hands of the empress.

    "You could''ve stopped him," Aries spoke after a moment, looking back at Abel instead of waving at the people. "You didn''t have to use your arm to block his attack and simply countered it."

    Abel slowly faced his empress, catching the worry in her eyes.

    "Why?" she added under her breath. "Why did you let him approach you when you could''ve killed him instantly?"

    "Becauseбн" he paused, reaching for her hand and guiding it to his lips. "... my wife wants this day to run as smoothly as possible, and it''s for her to decide whether she wants to add a bit of red to it, not mine."

    Abel nted a soft and gentle kiss on her knuckles, keeping his naturally sharp eyes on her. The corner of his lips curled up, holding her hand as he rested their intertwined hands on hisp.

    "I do not have the heart to sully my hands on your special day, darling, but it''s not a terrible trade, don''t you think?" He squeezed her hand mildly, looking away to greet the people. "You understood my heart, and you were able to establish what sort of empress they were weing. It''s a win-win for both of us."

    Her eyes softened as a subtle smile resurfaced on her face. "Thank youбн for upholding my will, Abel."

    "Anything for you, darling." He faced her once again and smiled warmly. "Don''t mention it... but if you sincerely want to thank me..." Abel wiggled his brows as his lips stretched yfully. Seeing his expression, Aries almost immediately guessed what he was about to say.

    "Let''s try mutual oral sex."

 Chapter 640 Lets Give Them A Lovely Last Image, Shall We?

    The parade continued smoothly with the knights being extra cautious of the surrounding. Nothing happened after the monarch''s brief encounter in the middle of the procession. However, as they proceed, Aries felt this cold chill down her spine.

    Aries kept her smile andposure, but her eyes caught figures at the back of the crowd on either way down the street. Each figure in a dark cloak had a uniform distance from one another, like a formation. Even though she couldn''t see their faces other than the lower half, she was certain their eyes never left her.

    "That''s how they wee you, darling," Aries heard Abel''s calm voice. He was facing the other direction, waving and nodding at the unsuspecting crowd.

    "They won''t do anything harmful, right?" she inquired under her breath, keeping her surface in check.

    "I doubt." Abel cast her a quick look. "Isaiah won''t let anything happen."

    Aries secretly heaved a sigh of relief, knowing Isaiah put up a protective barrier against witches or vampires бк not against humans, though. The reason that man who attacked Abel was able to approach them. Fortunately, Abel''s wound wasn''t deep and it could heal on its own.

    "If that is what you sayбн" she shrugged mildly, her action almost unnoticeable.

    The route of the procession covered almost half of the capital. Hence, it took almost half a day to reach thest town. Fortunately, when they turned to go back to the Imperial Pce, their pace was much faster. The n was once they returned, Aries and Abel would have a few words with their people in front of the Imperial Pce.

    And then, after that, they would attend a royal banquet to celebrate their union with carefully selected guests from noble houses across the empire. Once the night fell, the emperor and empress were to share their first night together.

    When the procession reached the gates of the imperial pce, the people were already gathered in front of the raised tform. The crowd stretched to the za, filling every corner and street to hear and see the empress and emperor one more time before they enter their abode.

    "Careful." Abel stood on the side of the carriage, offering his hand to assist his wife down.

    "You shouldn''t have ripped my dress." She sped his hand, taking the step down, and they made their way to the stairs of the raised tform. As they did so, Aries habitually pulled her royal mantle to cover her ripped skirt, which wasn''t truly noticeable unless one made a closer look.

    Abel chuckled, treading carefully so she wouldn''t trip. "But the idea was delightful."

    "For you, yes. But for me? Just what would people think of me if someone noticed something was happening down there?" Aries cast him a sidelong nce, snapping her tongue in irritation. "Would you like it if the situation was reversed?"

    "I would definitely love it, for sure." His answer was quick without a second hesitation, smiling from ear to ear until his eyes were squinting evilly. "Why would you ask me that, darling? I suddenly feel excited."<sub> </sub>

    <strong>''He''s crazy,'' </strong>Aries thought, fighting herself not to roll her eyes as they reached the raised tform.

    When they stood in the middle, both of them smiled modestly, looking at the thick crowd ahead and the unbelievable scene of jubtion. Abel and Aries waved, their people''s cheers echoing that even those in the heavens or those in the pits of the earth could hear.

    The sound of the horn rang loudly, and the cheers gradually subsided. Abel raised a hand, smiling in satisfaction as silence slowly reigned over the ce so they could hear the emperor''s speech. The emperor rarely made public appearances бк thest time he did was around five years ago. Therefore, the people were thrilled to see him in the flesh after a long time. He didn''t age at all and seemed to look much younger and dashing with that strange green hair of his.

    Some were even more intrigued by the empress. People had heard a lot about thedy in the House Vandran and also the noblestdy across the continent because the empire didn''t have a princess or an empress. The title naturally fell on thedy of the House Vandran. But now that Aries imed the crown, she had only proven she was, indeed, the noblestdy.

    Everyone eagerly listened to the emperor''s speech, cheering upon his promises to them, knowing the emperor had always done what he had said. After the emperor''s speech, he stepped to the side to give Aries the spotlight and say a few words to their subject.

    Seeing the amicable rtionship between them, their people''s hearts were at ease. The emperor and the empress, although they came from different factions, seemed to have built a good rtionship. Now, their empire that had always been divided between the imperialist and the aristocrats would be united with this wonderful union. Their chemistry was undeniably great as well бк hopefully, they would soon hear the news of little princes and princesses running in the pce soon. The sheer thought of it thrilled the people.

    "And therefore, as the empress of this empire and the mother of this nation, rest assured, I will do my best to prioritize the people''s interest before mine." Aries smiled beautifully while Abel stood beside her. The two of them looked at each other affectionately, warranting the people''s cheers.

    When they faced ahead, both bore confident and reassuring smiles.

    "Together with His Majesty," she added, hearing a loud round of apuse and whistles.

    Both Abel and Aries stood in the same spot for the next minute to give the people onest look. Once the time limit was over, Aries waited for Abel to assist her. However, instead of hearing a "shall we?" she caught him facing her from the corner of her eyes.

    Deep lines appeared in between her brows, turning her head to him, only to see him smile and say, "Let''s kiss."

    "Kiss!" someone yelled from the crowd, and those who were holding back to say that very intimate request found the fuel to yell the same word. Soon, the entire za was filled with voices saying that same word with high enthusiasm.

    "Darling." Abel tugged her hand and pulled her closer, his other arm around her waist. "Let''s give them a lovelyst image, shall we?"

 Chapter 641 Contentment

    "Darling, let''s give them a lovelyst image, shall we?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line while the loud request to see the two of them intimately grew louder. She rocked her head mildly, seeing his lips stretch broader. She slowly closed her eyes when he tilted his head and bent over.

    Another loud roar exploded the second their lips touched. When their lips parted, Aries smiled, seeing the genuine satisfaction on his face as if he was very pleased.

    "Did you always want to do that?" she asked with a brief chuckle.

    "Always." Abel kept his arm around her waist. "I''ve always desired to gloat and let everyone know how lucky I was."

    ? "No, I was the lucky one." Her eyes softened, holding his gentle gaze.

    "I am, darling," he argued yfully, making her chuckle.

    "If you''re going to do it again, just do it and make the people happy."

    "I never thought of making people happy will ever please me," he humored with a wink. "But do I make you happy? Were you just as happy as I am?"

    "If you don''t, I wouldn''t be standing here in front of thousands of people with you."

    Pleased with her answer, Abel moved his head to im her lips again. They smiled against each other''s lips, giggling before facing the excited crowd.

    Aries''s brows rose, ncing at him when she felt his hand slipping through the gaps of her fingers. Her eyes softened, holding his hand back as they waved at the countless people celebrating their union.

    Abel and Aries had always been sneaking, meeting secretly, and had been pretending. But now, they didn''t have to do all that hassle with all the support they were getting.

    Their forbearance had paid off.

    <strong>Meanwhile,</strong> as the people''s voices continued to echo, eyes on the tform where the emperor and empress were standing, one person wearing a thick cloak with a hood over the head was walking away. The person was tossing and catching a ck trinket that had dried blood on it, a silver ring with a distinct skull on it around his index glinting under the mild sun.

    Looking back to the tform, and catching the emperor and empress leaving the tform, the person''s lips curled up into a wide smile.

    <strong>******</strong>

    "Aren''t you having too much wine, darling?"

    Aries snapped her eyes at Abel, who was sitting on his throne right beside hers. After they entered the pce, they were given time to change clothes for the banquet and the endless ceremony along with it. Despite that, they had greeted the nobles invited for this royal banquet and Aries had chosen Climaco as her personal knight бк the captain of the empress knighthood brigade бк what she felt in the za never left her mind.

    "It''s a wonderful day and it''ll be a shame not to celebrate it," she humored with a yful smile. "Am I restricted to have fun and rx for a bit?"

    Abel simpered, reaching for her face, and brushed her cheek with the back of his fingers. Her cheeks were in a bright shade of red,plimenting her fairplexion. Her blinks werenguid, her eyshes fluttering like butterfly wings.

    How gorgeous!

    "I just don''t want you to sleep on our first night together," he remarked in a low tone, feeling his entire body rx under her gaze.

    The music ying in the background created a warm and cozy ambiance. The asional giggles and chattering from the guests added a much lighter mood. Others regaled in the music, dancing in the hall, their passionate eyes were kept exposed.

    Everyone was jubnt, happy, and passionate, just like the hosts of this banquet.<sub> </sub>

    "Tonightбн is not our first night, Abel," Aries giggled, setting her twinkling eyes at the group of youngdies and men dancing in sync. Their dresses glimmered under the chandeliers, and men''s neat formal suits didn''t pale inparison.

    What a pleasing sight to behold.

    "As the empress and the emperor?" he returned, watching her look back at him. "I''ve always made love with you like it was the first time, darling. It''s always a first for me."

    Aries fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly, tilting her head slightly. Her lips curled up into a subtle smile.

    "That''s right," she whispered, recalling the countless passionate nights and days in his embrace. "Ourpatibility in the bed isбн phenomenal."

    "I know."

    "I remember our first."

    "Good times."

    "Our secondбн third, fourth, fifth, and then the rest."

    "They''re just as fun as the first."

    "And hot as hell."

    Abel smirked as a sharp glint shed across his eyes. She was looking at him, her passionate desire clear in her eyes that gave them a different luster and added to her allure.

    "Do you think you can stand?" he asked, causing her brows to raise.

    "Well, of course, I am. I am not drunk."

    "Well, if that is the caseбн" Abel slowly rose from his throne and stood in front of her throne with an open hand. "Can I have this dance, my empress?"

    Aries chuckled. "Are we mandated to dance?"

    "Depends if I told you." His lips curled up into a smirk. "But I''m asking you. You can refuse and I will go back to my seat, but the people are watching. Please do not break my heart."

    Abel arched his brow and nced over his shoulder, noticing the growing attention on his back. The emperor had stood up from his throne to ask the empress for a dance. Of course, everyone would notice. He never stands up from that chair unless it was time for him to leave.

    "I do not have the heart to break it," she returned with a giggle, taking his hand as a gesture of epting his invitation for a dance.

    As the emperor assisted the empress down the stairs, the crowd dancing in the hall slowly and elegantly made way. The orchestra also yed a different tune that was much slower and romantic the moment the emperor and empress stood in the middle, facing each other.

    Everyone bore a smile as they watched the emperor snake his arm around her slender waist, his other hand holding her other hand. And along with the mellow tune, they danced their first dance for the night without taking their eyes off each other.

    This wasn''t the first time they danced together, but this time without a mask to conceal their identities.

    <strong>Abel couldn''t ask for more. </strong>

 Chapter 642 Happiness

    "Why do you always say, do not break your heart?" Aries asked out of in curiosity, watching her movements not to step on Abel''s feet.

    "Because it is fragile."

    "Was it?" a short chuckle slipped past her lips. "But am I not handling it with enough care?"

    "It''s not you, darling. I''m a man who needs constant reassurance inside this weaponized and fashioned cage called fear," he returned. "Perhaps that is my lovenguage."

    "A lovenguage?" her eyes twinkled with amusement. "Is there such a thing?"

    "There''s always been."

    Ariesughed, her surrounding was a blur with bright yet pleasing colors.

    "Aren''t you romantic? Haha. So, your lovenguage... is?"

    "Hmm... words of affirmation," he smiled. "Physical touch, too. I love it when you touch me."

    "Where?"

    "Everywhere." His lips stretched even broader. "And you?"

    Aries hummed a long tune, pondering what she liked the most in their rtionship. She looked at his dashing face and chuckled.

    "A little bit of everything?" she spun ever so slowly before resting her hand on his shoulder again.

    "I don''t think you know what we are talking about," he said, and she shook her head.

    "I think I definitely know." Aries raised her chin, keeping her eyes locked with his as if he was the only person she could see. "But if there''s one, perhaps, every time you spare me a time of the day, regardless of how busy you were."

    "My unannounced visits?"

    "Mhm."

    "I thought you hate them."

    "Who told you I do?" she giggled yfully, enjoying the slight surprise in his eyes. "They surprise me, but my heart always warms up at the sight of you, especially after not seeing your handsome face for days. It just so happened we were in a position we shouldn''t be seen together."

    Abel lowered his head to the side of hers, whispering, "we should leave after this dance."

    "Where to?" she arched a brow.

    "To make out -- in the hallway, perhaps?"

    "Oh, Abel." Another wave ofughter slid past her lips, watching him draw his head back. "As far as I know, once we leave the banquet, we''ll have to separate for a while."

    "Who arranged this schedule?"

    "It is the tradition -- your tradition." She pped his shoulder mildly. "I need to wash up and bathe in a tub full of flowers while you wait for me in your chambers."

    Abel frowned as if thinking about what to do.

    "I''ll help you out." He smiled mischievously after a moment. "We''ll do it once before taking a bath, another during, and then after. We can continue it once we''re on the bed."

    "I am always surprised how quickly you make your ns regarding such matters more than your quick riposte to state affairs."

    "I am a man, darling. A healthy young man."

    "Is four thousand years of existence young?"<sub> </sub>

    "Hey, you''re hurting my feelings, darling." Abel pulled her waist closer while sheughed. "What a cruel woman you are!"

    "I''m jesting."

    He narrowed his eyes. "You''re definitely not."

    "You are so dramatic."

    "This is why I say my heart is too fragile."

    Aries and Abel''s smiles and chuckles had been seen throughout the dance. They danced as if there were the only people at the banquet. Nothing mattered. And that somehow reassured the nobles that they had a wonderful rtionship.

    Although some wondered when would all thissts since Abel was known to have women like they were essories. But they didn''t entertain such thoughts for now, since the emperor and the empress were still on a honeymoon stage, and the emperor looked so smitten with his bride. They could only hope his feelings couldst a bit longer -- at least for a year.

    If only they knew the fickle emperor they all knew had only been with one woman since a year ago, and nned to be with her till the end of time.

    A round of apuse erupted in the air once the third music ended. The emperor still held his empress'' hand, looking at the nobles surrounding them. He wanted to dance for more, knowing dancing with her for two consecutive music meant his deep sincerity and adoration for Aries.

    However, her feet would suffer if they danced for more. Hence, after the third one, Abel guided Aries back to their golden seats, where they enjoy a couple of wines together.

    When the night fell deeper, the empress''s people came to fetch her to go bathe while Abel was told to go to their chamber to wait for her. Of course, the two obediently followed their schedule... or Abel was obedient for only several minutes.

    But once they left the banquet for the nobles to enjoy the rest of the night, Abel turned in the same direction as her instead of separating in the hallway.

    "The servants..." Aries giggled as she yed with the waters she was dipped into with Abel. "... nearly had a heart attack. The emperor should wait in our shared room for our first night, but instead followed us."

    Abel was tracing kisses on her bare shoulder, hugging her from behind. His hand underneath the water groped her body ever so slowly.

    "They should be d I waited this long." He rested his cheek on her shoulder, eyes on her side profile. "What''s the use of waiting for you and spending the night in the same room? Aside from fondling their imagination that we, indeed, did our matrimonial duties? Isn''t it better if instead of spending the night in the same room, it should be bathing together? In that case, there''s a higher chance that a newly wedded couple would''ve fulfilled what is there to be fulfilled."

    "Not everyone getting married is a willing participant." She cast him a sidelong nce. "Don''t even think about changing this practice."

    "I''m not. We''re already married." His lips stretched. "There''s no need for that."

    Aries smiled warmly as silence followed the two. She wasn''t very sober, but not drunk as well. The wine helped her calm down and granted her a chance to enjoy this grand union, despite her other worries.

    Her brows rose and turned to her right, only to see Abel staring at her quietly.

    "What?" she asked, and he fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly.

    "I''m just happy," came out a deep and rasped voice, pulling her body closer to him. "I''m very happy -- as happy as a m; I feel like my heart will explode."

    Her expression softened. "Me too, Abel."

    "Stay with me, Aries," he whispered with a tinge of sharine. "Forever and ever until the end of time. Don''t leave me, don''t go anywhere out of my line of sight, and just stay where I can reach you. I can never live without you now."

    "Why do you always say things like this at the most unexpected time?" she chuckled softly. "But, I promise. Forever and ever until the end of time."

    Aries held his gaze silently before lowering her head, iming his lips, which eventually led to a passionate and wild night.

    <strong>-- END OF VOLUME 3 --</strong>

    A/N: There will be bonus chapters for volume 3 that weren''t part of the main narration due to many reasons before the prologue of volume 4.

    I know volume 3 seemed to be a very weak volume, but thendmines were already nted. Wish our dearest characters won''t step foot on them... at least, not that soon.

 Chapter 643 Can You Blame Me?

    <strong>Two days before the coronationбн</strong>

    Princess Agnes was granted mercy and was only to be banished from the empire and never step her foot back in here. After the trial, she had be a figure of mockery and disdain. With what she had done to the east district, and the admittance of her vile n to even implicate the west district, people weren''t happy with the sentence she received.

    They thought it was too light, but knowing the empire was about to wee an empress, no one appealed. So the princess and that kingdom she came from were considered <strong>''lucky.''</strong>

    Still, the people wouldn''t let her leave this empire and give her any lingering feeling of returning. They might''ve not nned to kill her due to many reasons, the people still gathered outside the imperial pce to throw whatever they could throw at the carriage she would be riding.

    The people''s cruel shouts pervaded the air and street, throwing pebbles into the enclosed carriage. Some even brought buckets of feces and piss, showing zero respect to the once esteemed princess.

    "How scary," Aries crooned, watching the carriage in the street from the balcony of an establishment situated in the heart of the capital.

    The carriage couldn''t move properly because people were surrounding it, yelling harsh criticism, calling the princess names, and not carefully selected profanities. The number of angry folks who came was unbelievable. Some weren''t even angry and just joined in throwing things. Surely, these people wouldn''t miss the opportunity to mock someone who was born privileged.

    "My father sent a letter telling me if I step foot in his home, he would behead me on the spot for the shame I brought upon ournd." Aries snapped her eyes away from the street below the balcony to the woman sitting across from her. "I have nowhere to go."

    Princess Agnes slowly lifted her eyes at Aries. Herplexion was pale just one day after the trial because of the amount of stress. If not for Aries ordering her men to sneak her out and use decoys, she would be inside that carriage to experience a nightmare. She would be grateful, if not for the fact, that it was Aries''s doing why her life was brought to shame.

    "Iбн didn''t mean to harm you, Lady Danie." Her voice shook, almost choking in her own breath. "Why would you go this far?"

    "I told you, Princess. You wished to have freedom, and I''m granting you one."

    "Thisбн isn''t the freedom I wished!" Princess Agnes raised her voice for the first time to Aries, but she quickly calmed down with her next remarks. "You shamed me."

    "Would you push the me on me again?" Aries cocked her head to the side, reaching for the teacup in front of her. "I vividly remember asking you to attend the trial, but I didn''t tell you to admit it. Did you think I''d feel the slightest guilt if you do that?"

    Princess Agnes''s jaw tightened, sping her skirt tightly. At this point, she was already aware Aries was definitely someone very cruel. Although thetter had a point, Aries felt no shame in twisting someone''s words to her own advantage.

    "I thought you were different," she muttered, keeping her exhausted eyes on Aries. "But you''re just as cruel and vile just like everybody else. I don''t think surviving your sickness made this world a better ce."

    "I know, right?" Aries chuckled with her shut lips, cing the teacup back on the saucer. When she straightened her back, her eyes fastened with amusement.<sub> </sub>

    "Just like everybody else, you and I don''t make this world a better ce. However, just like everybody else, we all want to survive," she continued, folding her arms under her chest as she leaned back. "Can you me me? Can you me them? If you can''t even me yourself for trying to survive, how can you me others when their actions are fueled by their eagerness to oust?"

    "I was not your enemy."

    "You weren''t."

    "Youбн had secured the throne," Princess Agnes stressed firmly. "You didn''t have to go this far."

    "But you know her." The princess''s breath hitched upon hearing Aries''s quick yet emotionless response. "The woman you''re looking for. You knew her and want to find her. I won''t go this far if you approached me with a different intention."

    Princess Agnes opened and closed her mouth, but her tongue kept rolling back in her throat.

    "Iбн didn''t have a bad intention," she breathed out heavily when she recovered her voice. "All I want is to know whether she''s safe now or whether she lost her life."

    "She had lost her life every single day after the fall of Rikhill, Princess." Aries''s tone grew icy. "Every day, she fought for her life, but died over and over and over бк you cannot even imagine how torturous it was to open her eyes the next day, knowing she would die yet another cruel death."

    "Whether she survived or lost her lifeбн shouldn''t be a matter you should be poking your nose in, Princess." She shook her head, her burning eyes locked with the princess. "No one talks about her anymore; everyone forgot about this enved fallen princess of Rikhill. Why would you, someone who knew nothing about her and had never done anything for her, would dare reopen the scars and bring back the trauma she painstakingly mended?"

    Princess Agnes''s breath hitched, staring at the growing fury in Aries''s eyes. It was as though Aries was speaking about her own scars, angst, and experience.

    "Youбн" she trailed off as realization struck her. The time thedy of the House Vandran recovered was almost the same time Aries was still in the empire. Was it possible that Aries, the enved fallen princess, who just suddenly vanished in this empire wasбн

    Aries blinked, and the fury in her eyes slowly vanished, reaching for the teacup to her lips. When she put it back and licked her lips, she faced Princess Agnes again.

    "Davien was a good man, Princess. There were times he was quite mischievous бк foolish," Aries broke the momentary silence building up between them. "He had always told me he would marry his pen pal."

    "You were that person, correct?" she cocked her head, and that second, the princess''s face stiffened. "And also, the person who broke his heart after giving him false hope."

 Chapter 644 Even Shepherds Eat Their Lambs

    "You were that person, right? The person who broke his heart after giving him false hope."

    Aries narrowed her eyes while staring at Princess Agnes''s paleplexion. Yet, her stony countenance didn''t change. Her mind, however, returned to a particr memory in the past.

    <strong>Years ago бк many years,</strong> the young crown prince of the smallnd of Rikhill fell in love with a princess at first sight. He would go on daydreaming and singing love songs, jumping with joy every time he would receive a letter from her.

    Aries would usually frown seeing how her brother act like a little boy. Out of curiosity, while Davien was sitting under the linden tree, reading a letter leisurely, Aries came up from behind him. The startled Davien scolded her whilst hugging the letter to his chest.

    "What''s so wrong if I get to read this letter?" she frowned, sitting in front of him under the linden tree. "Who is this person you''ve been exchanging letters with? And you''re always acting like a jester every time theye. Do you have any idea how funny you look?"

    Davien snapped his tongue in irritation. "Don''t sneak and read our letters, Aime!"

    "Why would I?!"

    "You literally just came up right behind me!"

    "I just arrived! I barely read anything." Her eyes slid to the corner, making his eyes narrow suspiciously.

    "Youбн can''t lie."

    "Fine!" Aries huffed. "I had a glimpse of it, alright? So what? Ashamed of your soppy exchange of letters? You should feel sorry for me because I cannot unread it anymore. My innocent eyes are tainted!"

    "That''s your fault for being too nosy." Davien let out a dryugh, shaking his head at his distressed sister. He excitedly held the letter and looked at it again with a satisfied smile. "These letters are from my future wife. I''ll make her my Queen."

    Aries frowned. At this point in time, she was still too young, around thirteen, to desire the throne. Still, his remarks didn''t sit well with her. Before being a princess, Aries was Davien''s little sister, who was always fond of her big brother, and marriage for her meant her brother would have less time with her.

    "You can''t get married." Aries folded her arms under her chest grumpily.

    "Huh?"

    "Davien, can''t we just marry?"

    "Huh???" Davien''s mouth fell open, looking at her up and down incredulously. "Aime, are you out of your mind?"

    "Why?"

    "What you saidбн didn''t you have goosebumps? How can you ask your brother to marry you?" he gasped, making her frown deepen.

    "What''s wrong with that?" she cocked her head to the side. "Our uncle married his cousin."<sub> </sub>

    Davien opened and closed his mouth, unable to say a word for a moment. Intermarriage wasn''t banned in theirnd, but it was also not a thing anymore. Moreover, Aries was too young to be talking about marriage. She hadn''t even debuted in high society yet.

    "Aime." Davien cleared his throat and folded the letter, which he put inside the small box containing all other letters from the same sender. He then moved closer to her, looking her in the eye.

    "Intermarriage isn''t banned in Rikhill, but it''s still filled with controversy. Furthermore, I practically raised you! How can you ask me to marry you?"

    Aries blinked, her big green eyes bore innocence. "Even shepherds eat theirmbs, Davien."

    "What?" Davien''s youthful face stiffened at his little sister''s rebuttal.

    "I want to be with Davien forever!" A bright grin slowly resurfaced on her innocent and adorable face, holding his hand. "I''ll be Davien''s Queen!"

    That day, Davien could only look at his little sister with disbelief and lectured her about the importance of marriage. And, like usual, the two of them just bantered like what children do. In the end, Aries''s stubbornness left Davien in utter distress.

    They were so innocent back then, and would always be a memory Davien would use to tease Aries when she was being too stubborn as they grew more mature and their priorities, dreams, and values changed over time.

    Growing up, Aries became more and more dazzling and wise; Davien, too. There were many things that changed in the two of them over the years, but there was just one thing that didn''t change in him. That was, he was still as joyful each time he would receive a letter from his pen pal. Although he wasn''t jumping with joy anymore, the charming smile on his face was always present each time.

    <strong>Until one nightбн</strong>

    Aries stood by the door of the crown prince''s chambers, watching her brother on the floor. His room was turned upside down with broken porcins scattered around. Davien had a bit of a drink from tonight''s weing banquet after his expedition, and she got worried because he had been drinking, unlike his usual alcohol intake. Hence, after tossing and turning on her bed, she shook her head and snuck into the crown prince''s chambers.

    Much to her surprise, what weed her eyes was Davien in a pathetic state, crying in anger and pain. This was the first time she had seen her brother like this.

    "Davien," she called under her breath, watching him lift his head.

    "Aime." His eyes were bloodshot, surprised at her presence apparent on his face. "What are youбн"

    "You were drinking so much during the banquet," Aries exined, marching inside and pausing when she felt a shard pierce the side of her foot. But she didn''t react and simply removed it before she continued and squatted down in front of him.

    "I sensed something was wrong, and I was right." A deep exhale slipped past her lips, staring at his charming face with those same pair of green, looking back at her as if he desperately needed help. "You have no idea how you look so pathetic right now. I nearly mistook you as a stray dog."

    Her eyes softened as her jaw tightened. "What happened?" she asked under her breath, cupping his lean cheek while brushing the tears rolling down his cheek with her thumb.

    "My poor brotherбн" she lifted her eyes up at him, and the moment she locked eyes with him, a pang struck her heart. "... who hurt you?"

 Chapter 645 Im Tired

    "My poor brotherбн who hurt you?"

    Davien''s expedition was sessful and Aries didn''t hear any problems. That was why she already crossed out the reason he had lost a few soldiers. He had a golden heart, and every life mattered to Davien. He was like their father; both of them didn''t have the heart to use their soldiers as pawns unless it was necessary.

    So Aries had no idea what could devastate the current crown prince of thend of Rikhill.

    "Aimeбн" Davien choked, and his eyes instinctively fell on her bleeding foot. "Your feet."

    "Don''t mind them." She waved dismissively. "It''s just a scratch бк far from the stomach."

    He raised his weary eyes at her and let out a shallow breath.

    "Let me dress it up for you," he mumbled. "Don''t be stubborn now."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. This was Davien. He was someone who often look after her, the people, and their family regardless if he was enduring his own pain. He was just as stubborn as her. Therefore, Aries didn''t argue with him and allowed him to assist her to the divan.

    Davien had always kept a kit if he wanted to keep a wound a secret. With Aries sitting on the divan, Davien was on his knees while he cleaned her wound efficiently, more sober now.

    "It didn''t hurt," she whispered after he finished bandaging her foot, but he still gazed at it. "Don''t feel sorry about me."

    "Why are you even here?" he raised his head at her. "Aime, you''re not young anymore. You''re a woman now."

    "Is growing older also mean I shouldn''t worry about my family anymore? If so, then I do not want age at all."

    "Aime."

    "Stop stalling, Davien." This time, Aries''s tone was firmer. "You can scold meter, but I''m not leaving here until I know what is the cause of your sufferings or what happened in the expedition."

    Aries slowly looked around the originally tidy chambers but now seemed to be the result of a catastrophe. Porcins and some furniture loitered the room. Her eyes then fell on the hearth. Her brows furrowed, catching the small box where Davien kept all the letters from his pen pal.

    "Youбн" her eyes dted as she looked back at him in a hurry, only to see his bitter smile.

    "I went to see her, Aime." His voice wasced with bitterness, standing up to sit beside her. "That womanбн"

    ? Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. "And?"

    "Andбн" Davien let out a dryugh, eyes down, shrugging. "... I found out she had been fooling me all this time."

    "What?"

    "I wanted to surprise her, Aime. I thought she''d be happy, butбн" he trailed off once again as his voice cracked, shifting his teary eyes to her. "... I was the one who was in for a surprise. She was fooling around with another man."

    Aries''s heart thudded upon seeing a tear roll down his eyes across his narrow nose to its tip. What did he just say?<sub> </sub>

    "I didn''t want to believe my eyes, so I still approached her. She didn''t recognize me, and spoke all things I was not ready to hear, Aime." His lips quivered as his tight fist trembled in anger and the pain of betrayal. "She''s simply keeping me because of my title. It hurts, Aime."

    Davien pounded his fist against his chest while grinding his teeth. "I loved her and did everything to make myself worthy to take her hand, soбн her words sliced through me like a sharp knife. It hurts like hell."

    "Davien." Aries stretched her arms and wrapped them around him, pulling him into her embrace. She could feel his heart racing against her chest, his trembling hand on her back, and the helplessness in his sobs.

    Davien was a hopeless romantic, but he was also faithful. He practiced abstinence and worked on himself to be a worthy crown prince, and also for the love of his life, whom he only met once when he was still young. Even though there were prospective candidates that could fit to be the crown princess, Davien adamantly refused all of them and fought that his wife would be his own choice.

    Their father, the king, loved his children. And since Davien had proved himself time and time again he was capable, their father didn''t press on the marriage matter and approved of his son''s wishes.

    Therefore, Aries could understand his pain. Davien had always loved his pen pal; she was a witness to how he adored this woman just by looking at him whenever he would sit under that linden tree to read her letters.

    Aries kept him in her embrace, patting his trembling back. When Davien calmed down a bit, she guided his head to rest on herp; Davien was lying on his side.

    "I''m so pathetic, aren''t I?" he let out a dryugh. "I feel ashamed to have you see me in such a state."

    "Why?" she whispered, brushing his hair mildly. "Did you think I''d use this to tease you?"

    Davien chuckled weakly. "Won''t you?"

    "I''m not a scum." Aries snapped her tongue, but the usual irritation in them was absent. "I don''t hit that low."

    "That''s rightбн" another weak chuckle slipped past his lips, blinking ever so tenderly, letting her gentle handb his hair. "Is there something wrong with me, Aime? Iбн just couldn''t understand why sheбн why can''t I hate her?"

    "You have a big heart, and you''re foolish." Her response was quick. "She betrayed you and hurt you. Yet, you''re telling me you don''t hate her? But here I am, itching to y her from head to toe."

    "Aime." Davien slowly rolled until he was lying on his back, looking up at her with gentle eyes. "Don''t hate her."

    "Why?"

    "Becauseбн it was my fault." He smiled. "I shouldn''t have let her wait that long. Or at least, I should''ve visited her at least once or twice a year. If only I did, she wouldn''t forget about me or long for another man''s warmth."

    "If I were you, shut your mouth before I strike your face for saying all this nonsense." Aries''s voice shook in anger, barely holding herself back from pping some senses into him.

    Davien shook his head. "People are all built differently, Aime."

    "But that is not an excuse to keep you around whilst fooling with other men, Davien." She strongly argued, keeping her eyes on him. "You cannot order me what to feel, for that only fuels my wrath for her."

    Davien studied her face and her beautiful eyes that were burning with rage. Knowing her temperament, it was a miracle Aries hadn''t done anything other thanfort him.

    "I''m tired, Aimeбн" he whispered as a thinyer of tears coated his pair of deep, virescent eyes. "I''m exhausted from everything. Being the crown prince, these strenuous duties, the unrealistic expectations, the weight I have to carry, and everything. It''s crippling me."

 Chapter 646 Take Off My Clothes And Ill Take Your Dignity

    "I''m tired, Aime. I''m exhausted from everything. Being the crown prince, these strenuous duties, the unrealistic expectations, the weight I have to carry, and everything. It''s crippling me."

    Aries clenched her teeth, keeping her eyes on his soft ones. Silence followed Davien''s remarks as neither of them talked for minutes, just staring at each other silently.

    "Are you giving up now because of her?" she whispered incredulously, unable to believe how he could say all this just after a heartache. Sure. Aries understood his pain, but she had no idea of the depths of it because she never fell in love with anyone бк she never had a n; she never needed one.

    "No." Davien shook his head. "I''ve always felt exhausted. Being the heir isn''t all about the mour and the power, along with the title of the crown prince. All lives were in my hands and each was heavy, their deaths heavier. One wrong decision and everyone can die. I can''t even cry because I cannot be weak, Aime. But I am weak; I''m not always strong and fearless and selfless. Iбн for once, also wanted to run, to breathe, to live. Even for a moment. But I''m scared; I''ve always been."

    His lips curled up bitterly. He knew he shouldn''t be telling her this right now, but he couldn''t stop himself anymore. As a crown prince, he was responsible for many things, and he was required to keep things such as personal woes to himself. However, he would explode if he didn''t let out these frustrations.

    Davien had smiled and partied throughout the banquet with everyone, but inside, he was dying a slow and painful death. The betrayal was simply thest straw. He had endured everything, knowing it would be rewarded, only to find out that his efforts were thrown into the gutter бк Davien was lost.

    He was confused; he was demotivated. He didn''t know what to do anymore and all he could feel was the crippling affliction and paralyzing exhaustion. He didn''t know how to start over. He was utterly drained.

    And Aries felt him. She felt that helplessness and his silent cry for help in his sentiments. The fury in her heart gradually subsided as her heart softened. The anger she felt slowly dissolved into sympathy. Her brother was suffering and she never once noticed it. No one did.

    "My offerбн" she whispered, brushing his hair gently. "... do you still remember it?"

    "Hm?"

    "Back then, under that linden treeбн"

    "Aime."

    "Marry me, Davien," Aries requested sincerely, looking down at him while his head was still on herp. "It might be a huge scandal, but our people know you and me. They adored us and we had served them with good hearts and intentions. It might be hard at first, but they would eventually ept our union."

    "Aime," Davien called her again to stop her nonsense.

    "I meant it, Davien. Back thenбн and until now, I still mean it. Let''s get married."

    "Aries Aime Heathcliffe," Davien''s voice grew serious and hard, pushing himself to sit up. He faced her and shook his head, letting out a sharp breath. "Youбн do not have to pity me."<sub> </sub>

    "I don''t pity you, Davien."

    "Then, should I say you do not know the depths of what you are talking about so lightly?"

    "I definitely know what I am talking about, Davien." This time, her countenance grew firm, just like her voice. "I''ll be your wife, your crown princess, your queen. I am aware I cannot be with another man other than you, but I never want to be with another man. Being someone''s wife was never in my ns."

    Aries drew a deep breath. "But if it''s you, I don''t mind. I know I can trust you."

    Davien opened and closed his mouth, looking back at her in disbelief. Her stubbornness never ceased to render him speechless. He knew she would press on this matter from this moment on to cut him some ck, but Davien didn''t have the heart to let her carry this heavy burden.

    "Do youбн really want to be my wife?" he asked under his breath while holding her gaze.

    "Yes."

    "Can you prove it?" he immediately threw his follow-up question, causing her brows to furrow.

    "How?" she returned.

    Davien looked at her silently and sensually, giving her the look a man would cast on a woman. He slowly leaned his face forward, tilting his head. Seeing his action, Aries''s entire body stiffened while clutching her skirt.

    When both of them could breathe each other''s breath, Davien stopped.

    "Being my wifeбн doesn''t only mean sharing my burden in state affairs, Aime. We will also have marital duties to perform, and you also need to carry our child. I will need to father an heir, and we''ll have to do it over and over until we produce at least a few sons. You do understand what we need to do for that to happen, correct?" Davien slowly drew his head back to look at her mortified expression. He didn''t want to do this, but the only thing that could stop her stubbornness was if he scared her a bit.

    "Your heart, your mind, and your body will be mine, Aime. I can do whatever I want to do with it, have it at any time of the day," he continued, stressing every syble of his sentence. "Men are beasts, and I''m not an exception. If that didn''t disgust you, then be my guest. Take off my clothes and I''ll take your dignity, so I do not have an excuse not to marry you and make you my crown princess."

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips as he smiled weakly, waiting for her to look back at him. "But frankly, I cannot do that to you, Aime. I adore you and value you so much that I cannot let you do that for me."

    His eyes softened, raising a hand to pat her head. "I''m just d that you are here tofort your pathetic brother and I appreciate your heart for desiring to help me with everything you can. That alone made me feel a lot better. Thank you."

 Chapter 647 No Goodness Left

    "I''m just d you are here tofort your pathetic brother, and I appreciate your heart for desiring to help me with everything you can. That alone made me feel a lot better. Thank you."

    Aries pursed her lips into a thin line, still clutching her skirt. Of course, she knew what he meant, but he didn''t have to do that to make a point. If she weren''t willing, she would''ve moved away, but she didn''t. However, no matter how she denied it, Davien had a point. If he didn''t stop, she probably pushed him away.

    "I know you adore me, too." Davien slowly retrieved his hand from her and smiled. "But this affection is different."

    "What do you mean, it''s different?"

    "Do not mistake your affection for me for something more than it is. There were different types of love, Aime. A love for family, friends, lovers, for thend, and so on."

    "Does that mean it is the same with you?" she asked, more upset at this than his attempts to stop her from pressing the matter regarding marriage. "Was your love for me different from that woman who brought you nothing but pain?"

    Davien simply smiled at her, but that was clear enough for her as an answer. During this time, Aries didn''t understand his brother and what he meant by that. All she understood was the growing frustration in her heart, knowing Davien have this special feeling for another person who didn''t deserve it.

    "I will walk you back to your chambers," he proposed after a moment, but Aries shook her head.

    "No need, Davien. I can return on my own." Aries slowly stood up from her seat and gazed down at him. "Just take a rest."

    "How can I?" Davien also rose to his feet. "Let me бк"

    "No." This time, her tone was firm and strong. "You don''t have to."

    ? Aries gazed at him sternly before she turned her back against him to leave. Her careful steps halted as she released a deep exhale, chin up.

    "By the way, I will be the crown princess," she announced.

    "Aime. I don''t need this pity бк"

    "How I wish it was out of pity, Davien." Aries slowly turned around to face him. "I''ve thought of it for years, but I didn''t have enough motivation or reason. However, after seeing you in such a pathetic state, I realized, I cannot entrust thisnd to someone so weak. I cannot allow Rikhill to fall into yourmand."

    Her jaw tightened for a second. "Davien, I simply asked you to marry me for a much more peaceful resolution. However, now that you''ve proven it wasn''t as peaceful as I thought it was, I have no choice."<sub> </sub>

    "That title of crown princeбн I''ll take it away from you. You don''t deserve it. Our people and our great Rikhill don''t deserve such a weak-hearted crown prince and ruler," she added firmly with eyes burning with boldness. "I''ll prove that I deserve it more than you or anyone."

    With that being said, Aries left, holding that promise because the very next day, she asked for a private audience with their father, the king. And that was the start of her fiercepetition with Davien, in which she emerged victorious, only to be cut short by a tragedy.

    <strong>*****</strong>

    <strong>[ PRESENT TIME ]</strong>

    "Davien has the biggest heart, and he had so much love to give to everyone. And it angers me that even after knowing this person was fooling him, he forgives her," Aries mused quietly. "You did not deserve him, Princess. Did you feel guilty after hearing he died? Did you know how he died, Princess?"

    "In that ridge where all my people were shouting for what we were fighting for, grunting in pain whenever a de slice through their flesh, I watched my brother''s head roll over to my feet," she continued, keeping her eyes on the princess''s shaking eyes. "I had to pick up his severed head with my own two hands."

    "When I retrieved his body, do you know what I found in his chest?" Aries lowered her eyes, remembering one of the most painful events in her life. "It was a ring. I remember that no matter how busy he was defending his crown from me, he would spare his time of the day to sketch a ring. I didn''t know he finished it and got a person to craft it бк I was busy trying to take his crown from him."

    She slowly lifted her eyes at Princess Agnes again. "He loved you till the very end, Princess. He loved you so much he could forgive you, even though you broke him. But I''m not like Davien, my father, or anyone in Rikhill anymore."

    "I don''t have enough love to give away or grant forgiveness. I have no goodness left in me; it was stolen." Aries shook her head mildly. "I''m a firm believer that a person will only realize a person''s actual worth if that person leaves. I experienced it myself. Therefore, I understand you probably realized Davien was someone who truly loved you, and his love isn''t something that you can get anywhere. But you cannot bring him back. Neither I can. How I wished I can. I used to say I will do everything, even if that means sacrificing my life to bring them all back to life."

    "But after everything that I had ovee, it isforting to know they never left. They were here." Aries pointed at her chest. "They''re always here, and will always be there."

    Aries slowly rose to her feet, gazing down at the princess. Princess Agnes couldn''t stop her tears from staining her cheek, unable to speak a word to Aries.

    "I don''t hate you, Princess. That''s who you are, that''s your character, and I''m not mad at it. I just do not want to deal with it." Aries straightened her back. "May you get the life you truly wanted, Princess. Let this be thest time we see each other."

    With that being said, Aries carefully pivoted on her heel and walked away. Just after five steps from the door of the balcony, her steps halted.

    "I''m sorryбн" Princess Agnes whispered. Her voice shaking, she was unable to even look at Aries''s back.

    Aries nced over her shoulder but said nothing before she resumed her steps, leaving Princess Agnes with the crushing guilt the princess had to continue carrying to her grave.

 Chapter 648 Perspectives

    Aries had promised to put the things in the past into the past where they belong. She promised she would move forward, holding Abel''s hand, and cherish the people who love and value her the same way she does. It was not like she wanted to forget Aries Aime Heathcliffe. Aries would always be thankful and proud for that young Aries, who didn''t give up until she got the peace she deserved.

    However, that doesn''t necessarily mean she wouldn''t deal with the past if they came to the present. Just like Agnes, Aries didn''t hate her. If she did, she would''ve ruthlessly killed her instead of taking everything from the princess.

    Princess Agnes wanted to look for this wounded Aries in hopes she could help her because she felt guilty for what she had done to Davien. She didn''t want to find Aries simply out of the goodness of her heart, but because she was aware of the pain she had inflicted upon Davien. Hearing his death and the downfall of Rikhillбн the princess'' conscience never let her sleep, knowing Aries survived and must be suffering.

    In a way, the princess wanted to repay everything by helping Aries, not knowing Aries didn''t need her help anymore. Maybe, if Princess Agnes was fierce enough to step foot in the Maganti Empire, she could''ve helped Aries.

    But the princess had so many things she couldn''t afford to lose. Princess Agnes couldn''t sacrifice her life for another, no matter how determined she was to help. And that only meant she might have felt guilty, but this guilt wasn''t enough for her to let go of everything.

    Aries couldn''t me her, though. They didn''t know each other, and Princess Agnes was just also trying to survive in her own way. If Aries couldn''t me herself for sullying her hands, how could she me another for wanting to survive by wanting to lessen the guilt in their hearts?

    "Mydy, are you alright?"

    Aries blinked ever so slowly to the currentpse, moving her eyes from the window of the carriage to the woman sitting across from her. Veronika''s eyes disyed genuine worry, her lips pressed into a thin line.

    "Did Princess Agnes tell you anything that bothered you?" asked Veronika when Aries didn''t answer. "Should I give her a piece of me?"

    "Haha. Veronika, I am alright." Aries chuckled, hearing the former''s suggestion.

    Veronika had been assisting her ever since that day she revealed her rtionship with Abel. She was the one who arranged Princess Agnes'' escape route and even apanied Aries in her secret meeting with Princess Agnes. Of course, the Marquess and a few elite royal knights had escorted them. Aries would be crowned in a couple of days, and they couldn''t let anything terrible happen to her while she was out of the imperial pce.

    "I''m just thinking about Princess Agnes," Aries added, setting her eyes back to the window. "She was crying so much when I left."

    "Do you feel bad for her?"

    "No." Aries''s answer was quick, yet calm. "And that makes me feel bad. I feel bad for not feeling bad for her. Do you think I am heartless?"

    "Definitely not."

    "Howe?"

    "Because I think they deserve it."<sub> </sub>

    Aries slowly looked back at Veronika with a delicately arched brow. "You think so?"

    "Mydy is someone who is ruthless to those who earned it, and kind to those who deserved kindness," exined Veronika. "By carrying the crown, there will be decisions you will have to make that will test you and your beliefs many times. But I believe this quality is what an empress should have. Being too kind, and people will abuse you. Being too ruthless will make you a tyrant."

    "Although a part of me believes Princess Agnes is innocent, I can''t fully say she isn''t also responsible. There were many things she could''ve done to take out Lady Ivory from thepetition, but she chose to endanger the lives of the people. Even if she was confident no one will get harmed, she didn''t consider other underlying factors," she continued solemnly. "Wanting freedom and fighting for it half-heartedly was an insult to those who desperately want to break free from this cage."

    "She wished for freedom, and you granted it to her. Her sentence can be a lifetime curse or a blessing. Depends from which perspective one is looking at it." Veronika offered Aries a subtle smile. "If she truly wished for freedom, then I believe she will eventually see the value of this sentence. Not now, perhaps. But eventually. It''ll be a shame, though, if her desire for freedom isn''t as strong as what she imed. She''ll live a miserable life to the end."

    Aries kept her eyes on Veronika and smiled at this wise young maiden. Among her handmaidens, Veronika was the one Aries could talk to regarding this kind of matter. Maybe because Veronika lived a different life, unlike the other princesses.

    "How reassuring to hear your take on this." Aries rocked her head mildly. "It somehow made me feel better."

    "It''s good that Princess Agnes still had Lady Wendell. Although I cannot understand why Lady Wendell can give up everything just to apany Princess Agnes."

    "Because that''s life." Aries kept her eyes at the window with a smile. "Each one of us has a story to tell. I might not like the princess, but Lady Wendell might have a different reason she adored Princess Agnes. People are different to different people. I might be a hero of my own story, but a wicked witch from someone else''s story. It''s the same for His Majesty. He might be a vile tyrant in someone else''s story, but a loving husband in mine."

    Veronika pursed her lips into a thin line and let out a shallow breath. "So, where are we heading now, mydy? You said we''ll drop by to some ce before returning to the imperial pce."

    "Mhm." Aries looked back at her and her smile this time stretched even wider. "I want to reward you with something."

    "Meбн?" Veronika pointed at herself while cocking her head to the side.

    Veronika didn''t find out what Aries meant by this reward until they reached a particr luxury boutique in the heart of the capital. The moment Aries and Veronika went inside, and Violet weed them, the two (Veronika and Violet) looked at each other wide-eyed, before squealing in happiness as they jumped, holding each other''s hands, pleased to reunite after so many years.

    Meanwhile, Aries stood in the same spot, watching Veronika and Violet happily embrace each other with tears of happiness in their eyes.

    This was the current Aries.

    The current Aries would make someone cry out of guilt or pain or out of happiness. She could be awful or wonderful. Depends on which perspective one was looking from.

 Chapter 649 Lady Ivory

    The day before the coronationбн

    "I didn''t know you will ask for a private audience, Lady Norwood." Aries looked at the stunning woman across the round table. "I do not have too much time to spare. Let us hear what you got to tell me."

    "I would like to express my gratitude for granting my request despite your busy schedule." Lady Ivory beckoned a neck bow, and when she straightened her back, she locked gaze with Aries. Lady Ivory might be arrogant, but she definitely knew when to cross the line or not. "I know once you imed the throne, I wouldn''t have the opportunity to thank you."

    "Thank me?" Aries cocked her head to the side. "For what, Lady Norwood? For making sure Princess Agnes will get punished ordingly?"

    <o>,m "For giving justice to those people in the east," Lady Ivory corrected, making Aries arch her brow. "Those in the east were people who had been struggling especially after the gue that struck them years ago. Until now, the east was still recovering from that unfortunate event and what Princess Agnes did for her own selfish interest is unforgivable."</o>

    <strong>''Oh?'' </strong>Aries was a bit stunned at how the arrogant Lady Ivory would speak such words. Thisdy was always busy picking on the candidates, and it was a bit surprising she seemed to have cared a lot about the people in the east.

    "I wouldn''t have forgiven myself if something bad will happen to them."

    "Even if the south didn''t send their relief to fill up the spare storage, the empire would surely do something about it." Aries pointed out. "I would be lying if I said this didn''t surprise me, but you do not have to thank me. At the end of the day, I still gained something."

    Lady Ivory pursed her lips but didn''t look away from Aries. "I will be leaving the empire today, mydy. But before I go, I want to express my sincere congrattions on your hard-earned sess. Today is thest day people will address you as herdyship. I''m sure tomorrow will be only the first of many proud moments for you."

    "That is heart-warming. May you have a safe journey home, Lady Norwood."

    "Many including I, look forward to seeing even more great things from you." Lady Ivory smiled subtly. "And as such, I would like to give you a gift before I leave."

    "A gift?" Aries arched a brow, watching Lady Ivory slide her hand inside the secret pocket on her bell sleeve.

    Lady Ivory ced a small note on the table, sliding it across to Aries. Thetter nced at the small envelope, before snapping her eyes up at thedy.

    "This is your gift?" Aries asked, intrigued at what could be the content of that small notebook.

    "During my stay in here, some people, whom I never knew approached me. They promised to help me win the crown," exined Lady Ivory solemnly.

    "People promising you to win the crown?" Aries narrowed her eyes. How audacious.

    "Yes."

    "In exchange for?"

    Lady Ivory raised her palm, pointing at the note. "Everything is there, mydy. It is not much and you might find it not helpful at all. However, since the letters I received get burned once I finish reading them, I record everything I remember in this notebook."

    "Hahбн" Aries let out a dry chuckle, bending over to pick up the book. "Even if that is the case, why are you telling me this now?"<sub> </sub>

    "Because they didn''t keep their promise."

    "Oh?" Aries cocked her head to the side. "Vengeful, I see."

    "I am not a good person, mydy, and I think everyone is already aware of what sort of person I am. They promised me something, and I did what they told me, but they didn''t keep their word. So, here I am, going home as a loser," Lady Ivory''s voice didn''t show the slightest hesitation with her statements. "I will not let those people who humiliate me or give me false hope walk away freely."

    Aries leaned back, holding the small notebook on herp. "There were days I like you, Lady Ivory."

    "I am simply being true to myself, because if I am not, then who will?"

    "So, this is your way to avenge yourself?" Aries fluttered her eyshes ever so slowly, watching Lady Ivory nod as an answer. "Aren''t you afraid for your life?"

    "I am terrified. Another reason I am handing this to you, mydy." Lady Ivory''s eyes sharpened. "I will cut to the chase, knowing you do not have enough time to indulge with me."

    "You want to make a request?" Aries waited patiently for what Lady Ivory had to say.

    "Send people to escort me safely to my home," Lady Ivory requested. "I think I know enough to warrant an order to silence me."

    "What do you know?"

    "As I''ve said, it is all written inside that note."

    "Can''t you say one?"

    Lady Ivory pursed her lips as she looked around cautiously. Her tight-lipped reaction caused Aries to narrow her eyes.

    "Are they listening?" Aries''s sudden inquiry made Lady Ivory flinch slightly. "Do not worry. The Hyacinth Pce is safe бк this chamber, I mean. So, you do not have to worry or wonder who was listening on the other side of the wall."

    "I know the security in the Imperial Pce is quite loose. Those people are walking among us, mydy." Lady Ivory bent over as she spoke quietly. "The only reason I am still alive is that they were afraid His Majesty would find out about them if they acted rashly. However, I''m certain once I stepped out of the imperial pce, my life will be in danger."

    "I understand your fears, Lady Norwood бк"

    "You do not, Lady Vandran." Lady Ivory''s eyes zed, clutching the edge of the table until her hand turned white. She shook her head mildly, letting out a deep exhale.

    "What is there that I do not understand, Lady Norwood?" Aries asked with a delicately arched brow. "I might notpletelyprehend if you don''t tell me one clear reason why you think we''re not on the same page."

    "Iбн I know something happened to the Marquess, your brother."

 Chapter 650 This IsnтАЩt The Hole I Desire To Dig Tonight

    "Iбн I know something happened to the Marquess, your brother."

    As soon as those words rolled out of Lady Ivory''s tongue, Aries''s entire body froze. She gazed back at thedy nkly.

    "I may not know the details, but I''m certain they were the people who did it." Lady Ivory nodded with certainty. "If they could harm the esteemed Marquess Vandran, they would easily silence me. Please, mydy бк Your Majesty, help me."

    This time, Aries''s countenance slowly turned hard, looking at thedy across from her.

    <strong>Her</strong> conversation with Lady Ivory kept reying in her head, sitting on the same seat in the sitting room even after Lady Ivory left minutes ago.

    "Lady Ivoryбн" Aries slowly gazed down at the notebook on the table. She carefully picked it up, opening it carefully. Aries took her time as she prepared her heart for what she would find out from this little gift from Lady Ivory.

    Until now, Conan and Isaiah were still investigating what happened to Dexter. Apparently, Morro wouldn''t wake up, and they had figured out Morro was under a powerful spell that forces him to stay in his slumber. It would take a bit of time for Isaiah to dispel it since it was a delicate spell.

    The knights who escorted Dexter were wiped out, so the investigation was taking its time. Dexter''s condition was much more grave as his core blood was damaged. So, it would truly take time for the marquess to wake up.

    p Aries skimmed through the handwritten letters, flipping from page to page. What she found out in these letters was that they were written vaguely. The content didn''t have any direct orders aside from telling Lady Ivory to keep everyone busy.</anda>

    In other words, the reason Lady Ivory kept picking on the candidates. Without Lady Ivory, this entire selection would be a lot more peaceful. That was all they needed from Lady Ivory, and they would make sure she would ascend the throne.

    Aries stopped in the middle as her eyes went up and down, rereading a short letter on one page. It says;

    "Your toughest opponent will have the surprise of her life. Use this opportunity to stand out."

    Aries re-read it again and again. This letter was too vague, but since this was almost thest page of the notebook, Aries assumed the official candidates around this time were just Lady Ivory, Princess Agnes, and Aries.

    "Toughest opponentбн" she whispered, reluctant to assume it was referring to Aries. After all, if she would be the judge, the toughest opponent would be Princess Agnes.

    But considering all other factors such as Aries''s rtionship with Abel and so on, Aries would be the toughest candidate. Her jaw tightened. Before thepetition ended, something happened to Dexter too. Therefore, that letter only made more sense.

    Aries did have the shock of her life, butбн

    "Stand out?" she whispered, cocking her head to the side. "Did they say this because they haven''t figured out what I can do when someone touched my bottom line? Or did they purposely say this becauseбн they knew exactly what I can do?"

    Aries kept her eyes on the same page and kept rereading that short letter. When she was on the dead end, she leaned back and cocked her head back, eyes up.

    "I hope they can hide well," she whispered, closing her eyes to rest them ever so tenderly. "Mercyбн is thest thing I will grant them."

    <strong>*******</strong><sub> </sub>

    <strong>[ The wedding night ]</strong>

    "Ughбн"

    Aries red back at Abel as he grunted. Abel rolled his eyes, holding a shovel that was resting over his shoulder. Standing beside Abel on therge expanse of the forbidden mansion were Sunny, and then Conan, who bore the same ugly countenance as Abel. Isaiah was silent as ever, but he stood the farthest from Aries since she was still upset at him for what happened to Dexter.

    "Lady Ariesбн" Conan breathed out, exasperated. "I am utterly exhausted, alright? Who do you think is the person in charge of today''s coronation and wedding? Me! I didn''t get a night of sleep for days бк for goodness'' sake! Leave me alone!"

    Aries folded her arms under her chest. Her expression was in, her eyes dull.

    "Darling, aren''t you sorry for our dearest Conan?" Abel let out a deep exhale, making Conan look back at him with dismay. "My heart is torn, knowing he had been busy without a moment to breathe and now he has to dig бк in my wedding night of all night."

    Isaiah opened his mouth, only to shut them again when Aries and Conan red daggers at him. He hadn''t said a word yet, but the way the two looked at him as if he just said the most ridiculous argument they could think of.

    "Grandpa, are you just reluctant because it''s your wedding night, but then you have to dig?" asked Sunny innocently, looking up at Abel with an adorable expression.

    "Shh." Abel ced a finger in front of his lips. "She can''t know, but no. Digging is not the problem, the hole is. This isn''t the hole I desire to dig tonight."

    "I can hear you, Abel," Aries stressed, casting him a look. "And even if I didn''t, I know why you are reluctant. No need to spell it out to Sunny."

    "This is his fault! Why am I asked to do this?! Isn''t it just fair if he digs up his sister since he''s the one who buried her alive?!" Conan harrumphed, pointing a finger at Abel. Thetter ced his pinky inside his ear, twisting it around leisurely.

    "But uncle, aren''t you handsome?" Sunny chimed in.

    Conan gasped. "What''s that got to do with digging up the problematic and lunatic Marse?! Everything was at peace when she wasn''t around!"

    "Are you saying you are this reluctant because you honestly think this is for the better?" Aries frowned.

    "She deserved it!" Conan argued strongly, while Abel nodded in agreement.

    "She kept saying nonsense," muttered Abel, remembering all nonsense Marse spewed that would y in his head.

    "And she''s just in malicious!" Conan crossed his arms to cover his chest. "I always felt defiled whenever she looks at me!"

    "Handsome Uncle, once my pretty grandma gets out of here, she will surely strip you down and parade you around the empire."

    "That is why! We! Should! Leave! Her! Alone!"

 Chapter 651 [Bonus Chapter]Isaiah, LetтАЩs Bury Her Again.

    "That is why! We! Should! Leave! Her! Alone!"

    Aries''s face contorted as Conan was already panting after yelling each word with such passion. So, he was scared too, huh?

    "She will surely keep me busy tonight." Abel frowned while rubbing his chin. "Let''s postpone this for about a month since I want to enjoy our honeymoon, darling. I don''t want someone barging into our room while I''m inside you."

    "Abel!" Aries''s face instantly turned red.

    "Ah. My bad!" Abelughed, and then his eyes fell on Sunny. "Forget you heard that."

    Sunny just blinked. "I wish."

    "Tch." Aries snapped her tongue in irritation. "I will count to three. If you didn''t dig up my master, you will face the consequences бк one!"

    Abel looked away while Conan''s expression turned even grimmer.

    "Two!" Aries ground her teeth as she darted her eyes between the two. "Thre бк"

    "Fine!" Conan eximed, dragging his feet forward. "Here, I''m going to dig this rotten woman, alright!"

    Abel kept his poker face, but he was clearly upset. He pointed at Aries as he walked past her.

    "Do not me me if I smashed her skull if she ever says another word that drags my intelligence down."

    With that being said, Abel and Conan started digging up the soil. Isaiah also joined them. Meanwhile, Sunny and Aries watched from the distance while having some snacks and juice. After a while, Aries and Sunny got up from the fabric they were sitting on and approached the hole the three had dug.

    Isaiah was still inside the pit while Abel and Conan were standing on the surface across Aries and Sunny. Abel rested his hand on his hip, the shovel on his shoulder. Meanwhile, Conan''s hands were on the shovel''s handle, his chin on his knuckles, and the shovel dug into the ground a bit to support hiszy posture.

    Isaiah looked up at them as he stood on the in coffin. He caught Aries jerk her chin up, casually saying, "open it."

    A shallow breath slipped past Isaiah''s lips. Why was he the person who had to open up the coffin? He only met Marse once or twice before Abel buried her, but in all those encounters, Isaiah only had one opinion about her.

    Marseбн was a nutcase. Worse than Abel. Or rather, it was just that Abel just became a little tamed now because of Aries.

    Isaiah carefully opened the coffin with his shovel, revealing a beautiful woman with bright silky silver hair. Marse used to have bright golden hair, but her nched hair suit her too. He took several steps back as Marse''s eyes cracked open.

    The first she saw was Abel, Conan, Aries, and Sunny gazing down at her.

    "Master!" Aries called in relief. She was the only person who had any positive feelings about this. Even Sunny''s expression was hard to discern while staring at Marse.

    "Hello, dearest, sister," Abel smirked when he met Marse''s eyes once again. "How were you staying in this ce? Did you enjoy it?"

    "Ahhбн" Marse mumbled the rest of her words to herself, making Aries look at everyone.

    "Is she alright?" asked Aries quietly, watching Conan snap his eyes at her.

    "Do you think she''s alright all along?" Conan scrunched his nose up. "This woman is never sane. Just how bad are you at judging people?"

    "I''m so bad I thought of you as my friend?"

    "Hey! That''s offensive!"

    "Handsome Uncle is saying the truth, though," Sunny remarked, holding Aries''s hand. "Even my pretty grandma will agree to him."

    "See?" Conan looked at Aries up and down as if judging her entire existence, but thetter ignored him.

    "Why isn''t she moving?" Aries asked curiously.

    "Because she''s mad!" Abel intoned, eyes at Marse. "She''s talking to herself, wondering who should she deliver to hell first."

    "The duke!" Conan immediately raised a hand. "I vote that His Grace should go first!"<sub> </sub>

    "I nominate the same person." Sunny also voted as if official voting just opened up.

    "Uhбн" Aries gazed at Conan and Sunny before setting her eyes on Isaiah. Thetter nced up at her and then at the other two who were shameless enough to sell him out without a second hesitation. Aries might be angry at Isaiah, but not to the point she wanted him dead.

    But on second thought, Isaiah was capable enough to fend for himself.

    "Sameбн?" Aries raised a hand reluctantly as she looked away from the grand duke out of slight guilt.

    "It''s four votes for Isaiah, Marse." Abel chuckled happily as if Isaiah wasn''t there to hear him, pointing fingers as he spoke in order. "You attack him first, and then Conan, Sunny before me. That will give me time to shower my wife with endless love and affection."

    To their surprise, Marse didn''t move from the coffin and simply closed her eyes.

    "Will you buffoons leave me alone?" she said sarcastically. "I am having a good time here."

    "Huh?" Aries furrowed her brows as she gazed at them again. "Did she say she want to stay buried?"

    "She did." Sunny nodded. "I guess she wants to live in solitude."

    "Did she mature?" mumbled Conan in disbelief. "Did she want to live in seclusion now?"

    "That is definitely a different type of seclusion," Aries pointed out with a twitching face.

    "Isaiah, let''s bury her again," Abel ordered offhandedly.

    "What about me?" Aries asked almost immediately, warranting everyone''s attention.

    "Grandmama, do you want to get buried too?" asked the little girl, but before Aries could rify, Conan already chimed in.

    "I know witches like to live in seclusion, but I didn''t think you already picked up their habit."

    "Darling, we have pces, mansions, an empire, and ces we can go. I didn''t know you want us to live underground?" Abel added incredulously.

    "Should I prepare a coffinrge enough for two?" Isaiah inquired but got ignored.

    "I бк" Aries pinched the bridge of her nose, unable to discern if these people had a silent agreement to act clueless. What she was saying was <strong>''how about her training?!'' </strong>but obviously, they had a different take on it. "Never mind. If my master was alright with it, then let her live in solitude."

    Abel smiled in satisfaction, gazing down at the pit again. "Just crawl your way out once you can keep Marse at bay, Vera. I nearly killed her if you were a split secondte."

    "Huh?" Aries furrowed her brows, and fortunately, Sunny was there to exin.

    "The person who opened her eyes was not the pretty grandmama, but the real Marse," said Sunny. "If not for Grandpa and the Duke Deadmore keeping her restrained, she would''ve split youбн right in the middle."

    "Oh,e on, Sunny. You''ll scare my wife! That will not happen. Not under my watch." Abel kept his smile. Aries opened and closed her eyes, studying Abel''s smile, then Conan''szy countenance while looking back at her, and then Sunny''s adorable face.

    "Didбн you all know?" she blurted out under her breath, and Sunny nodded. The little girl''s answer rendered her speechless.

    "Ram," Marse called, her eyes still shut, but spoke again when she felt Aries''s gaze on her. "Remember all the things I taught you. If you need help, this revolting warlock here can help. I''m going to rest for a while."

    "How touching," Abelmented, but Aries and Marse ignored him.

    Aries kept her eyes on Marse and watched thetter open her eyes ever so slowly.

    "Rememberбн" Marse dawdled before Isaiah abruptly shut the lid, followed by the sinisterughter from inside the coffin. "Maleficent!! I''m going to kill you! Haha!"

    Aries felt a chill down her spine as she jolted, a bit surprised at the change of Marse''s tone. But knowing there were two souls inside that body, Aries knew the personughing once Isaiah shut the coffin wasn''t her master, but the real Marse.

    "Masterбн" Aries whispered, hearing Marse''s muffledughter and threats. "... I will, don''t worry."

 Chapter 652 The New Member Of The Night Council

    The first full moon after Aries''s coronation came just a few dayster. Abel briefed Aries enough for her to understand how this night gathering would be for, its agenda, what to expect and people she should be a little wary of. Although Abel would be there with her, many things could happen and Aries had to stay on her toes.

    <strong>In the Haimirich,</strong> every full moon, the night council would gather to talk about the matters of nonhuman beings. Many things happen in this empire that weren''t known to the public. One of them was the crimesmitted by vampires or witches getting ousted by their sisters or brothers that were usually addressed.

    Abel had established the empire and after going through trial and error, he had figured he needed a different set of rules for nonhuman beings. After all, unlike humans, these creatures weren''t as easy to deal with.

    He had established a blood bank where everyone could donate a portion of their blood to decrease the crimes the night. He had allocated a town for the witches far away from the capital; a location that was close to the wall and dangers. The witches and very few warlocks could fend for themselves.

    Abel had resolved many matters so everyone could co-exist with very few problems arising between humans, vampires, witches, and a minor number of other nonhuman beings. Still, despite all these resolved matters, the Haimirich Empire wasn''t perfect.

    No matter how great the emperor was, there were still those stubborn people who bore malice.

    Aries understood everything and got herself familiarized with how the night in the Haimirich Empire wasn''t always as quiet as it sounded. If one was just a little too cautious and listened carefully, they would hear their hisses, gulping, and smell the stench of blood in the air.

    "You are all too modest." Aries snapped her eyes as she peeked at Abel, sitting on the host seat at the end of the long table, from his right. "Was it because my empress, who you all dearly want to meet, is finally here with us?"

    Aries pursed her lips and nced at the people around the table. She gulped. Abel briefed her on everything she needed to know, but she was still a little intimidated. The people around this long table looked noble and just like Abel, they didn''t look different from humans.

    She had a glimpse of them before in the coven. But only now did she have the leisure to study them.

    "We simply want to leave a good impression on Her Majesty, Your Majesty," said a middle-aged man modestly. "We, the night council, agreed we do not want to surprise her."

    "The night of the coven came as a shock to her," a woman chimed in. "And we presumed she probably didn''t have a good impression of the night council. We wanted to correct that."

    "That is right. The night council is simply doing its duty for our people." Another man added.

    Aries and Abel listened to their exnation one after another. She was told the night gathering wasn''t always peaceful бк it was rare бк and those times were the most dangerous ones, ording to Conan. Because whenever the night council was too silent and calm, something was definitely brewing.

    "Are you sayingбн" Aries trailed off, ncing at everyone as they paused when she opened her mouth. "... the marquess wasn''t your people?"<sub> </sub>

    The answer was a pin drop silence while the side of Abel''s lips curled up into a smirk. Abel leaned back, cocking his head to the side, arms crossed.

    "The night council wants to leave a good impression on me, and was afraid that I had misunderstood you that night." Aries breathed out calmly, raising her chin as she sported a hard countenance. "However, it seemed you care more about what I think and killing my husband than actually imposing these rules you speak of."

    "I know everyone is aware the Marquess Vandran isn''t my blood brother. However, even if the blood running through his veins is different from mine, he is my brother," she continued solemnly. "I am d you thought so highly of me, but if you truly care, you would''ve helped investigate the matter."

    Aries shook her head. "But until now, the only people who had been putting their all to uncover the truth were His Majesty, the grand duke, and Sir Hakebourne."

    "Oh, darling. You shouldn''t have shut them up like this!" Abel intoned, amusement fastened in their eyes. "I told you. They were a bunch of hypocrites. So, you don''t need to spare them a bit of your energy and simply watch them while waiting, whose tongue falls off first."

    "Abel."

    "Whoops. My bad." Abel raised his hands on either side of him, smiling from ear to ear. "Rightбн I will behave and watch what I say."

    Aries nodded. "I had heard all your concerns regarding the night and the recent attacks. Since I had earned a seat in this ce, I will surely do my best to keep your heart at ease."

    "Tch." Suddenly, a man let out a snicker that everyone heard. "You didn''t earn that sit, Your Highness. We put you there."

    Abel whistled at that snide remark. This was what he was talking about when he told Aries the night council was mostly filled with numbskulls. He just got used to their unkind remarks and let them express them just to make them feel better, and he also gets a bit of entertainment from it at times.

    But Aries was different from Abel.

    He was someone who enjoyed ying the viin and giving people ''<strong>fighting chances''</strong> to give him a thrill. His wife, on the other hand, wasn''tpletely fond of these things.

    "I didn''t earn this seat?" Aries let out augh as if she had heard the greatest joke in her life. She then studied the man with a smirk, raising her chin and making her eyelids droop. "I think you and I and every single one in here knew the reason why I am now sitting in here. Delude yourself all you want, but this seatбн I earned it that night those who weren''t present tonight lost their limbs."

 Chapter 653 The Night Everyone Had To Decide Which Side They Were On

    "I think you and I and every single one in here knew the reason why I am now sitting in here. Delude yourself all you want, but this seatбн I earned it that night those who weren''t present lost their limbs."

    Aries slowly rose to her seat with her palms on the table.

    "I will say this just once. I am the empress of thisnd, the holder of Maleficent, the wife of a Grimsbanne, and a demon who crawled her way out of hell. Do not cross me." Her eyes glinted with malevolence, scanning each one of them. "If I find out that any of you has even the slightest involvement in what happened to my brother, or you were scheming to cause disharmony in this empire, rest assured I wille knocking at your door and let you remember why you begged my husband for my attendance for the night gathering."

    Aries straightened her back and smirk, pleased to hear their silent response. Her eyes glossed over the people sitting around the table before theynded on Abel. He was already standing up, offering his hand to her.

    "I think that is enough for tonight. Shall we go on our date?" he asked, simpering while Aries sped his hand.

    "I am looking forward to what you prepared this time." Aries chuckled, following his lead as they walked away.

    "Aside from passionate and wild sex?" Abel shrugged. "Something romantic, obviously."

    Both of them chuckled, feeling zero shame for letting the night council hear their casual conversation. But before they could leave, Aries slowed down, eyes on Abel.

    "Were you curious whose tongue falls off first?" she asked, making Abel slow down before the two of them stopped.

    Aries smirked, looking back at the table. As soon as she did, the person who was audacious enough to piss her off tonight stared at the surface of the table. From that man''s opposite spot, a crack on the table appeared, crawling rapidly towards him.

    <strong>SNAP!</strong>

    Some of the night council jumped from their seats as the table was split in half. The person Aries bantered for a moment had his eyes wide open, holding his breath as the way the crack crawled from across him looked more like a dagger flying towards his throat.

    The night council slowly raised their eyes to Aries and Abel. She had her arms hooked around Abel''s arm, both of them smirking wickedly, eyes glinting with rancor and confidence. Some of the night council gulped.

    That night of the coven, everyone knew that Aries simply had an awakening and wasn''t able to control her ''gifts.'' They were confident controlling Maleficent''s power would be a challenge for her. However, it seemed Aries was much more capable than she appeared.

    What happened just nowбн required precision in handling just enough force to not hurt anyone, but show her warning clear to them.

    The new member of the night council wasn''t just the holder of Maleficent, she was the new Maleficent.

    "If this was my husband, he would truly show everyone how speaking too much can cost you your tongue. But I am not as ruthless as him. I don''t see this as a race just like him." Aries chuckled, pleased to see their stunned reaction. "However, I only give first andst warnings. The next time you try to shame me, I cannot guarantee what I will do."

    "Did you really think I''ll let here here, knowing she couldn''t control her witch?" Abel grinned deviously until his eyes were squinting. "Oh, silly people. Arent you too naive for your ages?"

    "Anyway, if there''s someone to me, me my sister, Marse," he continued. "She''s the one responsible for this. Don''t worry, though. Even if she is my sister, she won''t get away from messing with you all and is now being punished for it. Even so, I''ll make sure to send your words of gratitude to her бк she''ll be ted."

    Abel snicked before facing Aries. "I am impressive, am I, darling?"<sub> </sub>

    "You are amazing." Aries raised her eyes at him and smiled affectionately. "The best of the best."

    "Oh, darling. My heart is too weak for your praises. I''m melting."

    "Melt in my arms."

    "I would definitely." He grinned at her. "Shall we?"

    "Mhm." Aries nodded, but before they resume their steps, they looked back at everyone. Their lips stretched even broader while enjoying the sight they would be leaving. They didn''t say a word as they faced each other once again before they walked away while flirting and giggling.

    Meanwhile, those members of the night council could only stare at the emperor and empress''s retreating figure in silence. Aries and Abel might purposely didn''t mean it, but while the two of them were looking back at them, the bright glint in their eyes was enough to send a chill down everyone''s spine.

    <strong>Those twoбн a Grimsbanne and Maleficentбн what a cursed pair.</strong>

    The members of the night council looked at each other with stern expressions. No one spoke a word for the next several minutes before they gazed in the direction where Aries and Abel disappeared to.

    "Three Grimsbanneбн and Maleficentбн in thisnd...?" a woman''s quiet voice broke the prolonged silence in the air, listening to everyone''s careful breathing. "I am unsure if this would reassure the witches or a reason we have to start looking over our shoulders."

    "You only fear them if you n to stay on their bad side, Gloria," another woman бк an older one бк spoke, smirking at the first woman named Gloria. "Otherwise, this is a good sign that the order in the empire, especially the truce between witches and vampires that were being threatened to be lifted, would not happen."

    "Marcia Gravesбн this is a surprise," said Gloria sarcastically. "Weren''t you bereaved after the death of your dearest friend, Firion?"

    "Firion died, good for him. He is now at peace."

    "Marcia," another man, Dante Balthier, who had always been vocal in every gathering, chimed in. "I am just as pleased to know that the empress has good control over her gift. It put my hearts at ease, knowing an old witch will have less chance of manipting someone to make her a weapon for our race."

    "If I were you, Dante, I would hold your tongue." Marcia smiled, but it didn''t reach her eyes.

    This was the night council. They might be gathered together and had a mutual agreement in every coven to end Abel. However, that didn''t mean the members had a good rtionship. After all, the matters of the empire weren''t just between humans against them, it was also witches against vampires, witches against witches, vampires against vampires, and so on.

    No wonder Abel barely kept a sound mind.

    <strong>****</strong>

    <strong>A/N: THIS IS THE LAST EXTRA CHAPTER FOR VOLUME 3. NEXT IS THE PROLOGUE OF VOLUME 4. </strong>

    <strong>ANOTHER NOTE: I JUST SIGNED A SUPPLEMENTARY CONTRACT FOR THE COMIC ADAPTATION. I''M SO EXCITED AND HAPPY I WAS LITERALLY CRYING. I''LL RESUME UPLOADING EXTRA CHAPTERS NEXT WEEK, HOPEFULLY. IT''S BEEN A BUSY MONTH FOR ME DUE TO PERSONAL ISSUES, BUT I AM OKAY. I HOPE YOU ARE ALL HAVING A GOOD TIME ON YOUR END.</strong>

 Chapter 654 Prologue

    <strong>WELCOME TO VOLUME 4.</strong>

    <strong>PROLOGUE</strong>

    They said trees were sanctuaries. It provided some of the mostmon and admired ways for the wind to make itself heard. But not today. This tree had an unorthodox method to give the wind its voice to announce its presence.

    As the wind blew carefully from the east, Aries heard the soft chime caressing her ears. Not a single leaf fell on her, standing barefoot under a gigantic leafless ironwood tree.

    When another wave of soft wind blew past Aries, she slowly raised her head. The sound of chime resonated in her ears once more; the melody was almost calming, if not for the fact those small bells that lent wind a voice, dangled from each toe of the eleven women hanging upon the tree.

    <strong>What a cruel world,</strong> she thought, wondering what could these women have possibly done to deserve this atrocity.

    "The earth tasted their blood, mortals took their lives, creatures stole their flesh, and now, the wind shames them," Aries whispered, narrowing her eyes as she kept her gaze at the bodies whose bare feet swayed along the direction of the wind. "Theyбн did nothing wrong."

    Her lips were drawn in a thin line, catching the tangerine with a golden undertone shine upon the corpse, making their shadow stretch as far as it could reach.

    "The sky was stunningбн as ever," she hummed, moving her eyes at the orange glow in the sky, crawling across it as if the sun bids this world a farewell with an embrace. "I wonderбн if it knew how dreadful it is for some whenever he goes away while the hushed moon takes over?"

    ? A shallow breath slipped past Aries''s lips, snapping her eyes ever so tenderly. She then slowly twisted her upper body, looking back at the two figures standing several meters from her.

    Her eyes lingered on the child''s face. Thetter''s clothing was in and worn-out, standing barefoot, holding the woman''s wrinkled hand beside her. She had short and tousled white hair that was inches above her shoulders, eyes as green as the lush grass, reflecting what this cruel world appeared in her eyes.

    The child looked at Aries squarely before thetter shifted her eyes to the older woman beside the child. She wore the same worn-out and thin dress. Her ck crinkled long hair was everywhere, but it did not bother her. She also had the same clear green eyes, but unlike the look in that child''s eyes as if she had just first seen the actual face of this wild world, the olderdy bore sympathy and regret.

    "Do you know them?" asked Aries after studying them in a span of a minute.

    Both the elderly and the child nced up at the people hanging on the tree. They only looked at it for a few seconds before gazing back at Aries once again. They didn''t nod, nor did they shake their heads. They just looked at her silently, but Aries didn''t feel the slightest difort.

    "Will you not speak to me this time as well?" Aries asked with a deep sigh, and patiently waited for any answer but just like the first time she started having this vision, they said nothing. All they did was stare at her and stand in that same spot. They wouldn''t even give her the slightest sign.

    "I guess I''ll just keep seeing thisбн" she trailed off, arching her brows as the child moved for the first time.<sub> </sub>

    The child kept her eyes on Aries, raising her hand and pointing a finger at her. Aries''s brows knitted in confusion, only to hear another wave of the soft chimes ringing in her ears. Aries''s heart thudded as she turned.

    Aries didn''tpletely turn to face the tree but stopped when she caught another woman standing beside her. This was the first time she had seen this woman, who was around her age or a little older than her.

    The woman was staring at the hanging tree, her eyes gold with a tint of red. A thinyer of tears was coating her beautiful slit eyes, holding her pain untold. There was a scream from deep within them that desperately tried to escape her mouth as if her terrified soul had unleashed a demon.

    "The earth tasted their blood, mortals took their lives, creatures stole their flesh, and now, the wind shames them." The woman''s quivering lips parted, whispering the exact words Aries spoke just moments ago. "Theyбн did nothing wrong."

    "Youбн" Aries called under her breath, and her pupils went wide when the woman''s eyes slid to the corner to nce at her. "... can see me?"

    Aries held her breath as the woman carefully turned her head to her squarely. Her golden eyes slowly went up and down on Aries, her expression hard, and her hands were firmly held on her side.

    "I wish I didn''t," the woman replied while her eyes narrowed. "The same goes with them. I wish to not have seen them hanging in there."

    She slowly set her eyes back to the hanging tree. "They screamed,<strong> ''burn the witch!''</strong> and I thought they meant to burn her in the stakes. Not only did they take what I can give, but all I have. They had seeded."

    "This fury is burning me, creating this inferno бк it seeks to harm." The woman''s voice shook, pain, sadness, and anger condensing into one. They said anger was the body of sadness, and Aries somehow understood the roots of this woman''s wrath.

    "I did everything right and everything they have is what I made, yet they squander it like thankless children. No matter what I do, this ceбн had always been a God damn mess." A short and dryugh escaped her lips, eyes shining with wrath, about to get unleashed without second thoughts of the consequences. "I was better left alone, butбн I reckoned they deserve to see the nurtured fire seed they forced down my throat. They asked for it."

    The woman''s expression was stern, facing Aries. She raised a hand and stretched it to Aries, stopping midway.

    "Soonбн I, we, Maleficent, will have this world at our mercy." Her lips turned into a cunning smile. "Wait for me."

    Aries furrowed her brows, only to hold her breath as she caught multiple figures standing around them. She nced around, only to see the child and the older woman, and a few more wearing the same worn-out dress looking back at them from a distance. When Aries peaked down, she recoiled upon seeing she was also wearing the same clothing just like them. However, a hand suddenly grabbed her hand just as she jumped back.

    "You cannot deny me," said the woman holding Aries''s wrist until it turned red. "You are me, and I am you. They were you and you are them. We are one. We are Maleficent."

 Chapter 655 Are You An Addict?

    <strong>[ Chivisea Dynasty ]</strong>

    "Long live Her Highness, the crown princess!"

    The cheers of people gathered in front of the high wall of the royal pce resonated in the air that could reach the heavens. Everyone was yelling the same greeting, and the majority of them were women who were robbed of the right to even speak without a man''s permission.

    In this strict country, no woman had ever be the heir to the throne. But for the past six months since the Fourth Princess, Veronika Barkridge returned after losing the selection, everything slowly changed until they reached this point of weing their newly crowned princess and also the first in the line to the throne.

    <strong>Many thought it was absurd.</strong> A woman? Leading this nation? Had they not heard what happened to a four-hundred-year-old kingdom when they boldly reced the rightful crown prince with a woman? That country was now an official state of the Maganti Empire.

    This matter had divided the nation, and it was to be expected. Everyone was used to their practice, beliefs, and way of living. So change was never easy. Though many wanted to submit their petition for this puny challenge Veronika proposed to her brother, they had no choice but to ept it.

    <strong>Why?</strong>

    Apparently, even though the Fourth Princess didn''t seed in iming the empress''s seat in the Haimirich Empire, Veronika was able to get on the good side of the newly crowned empress and the emperor of Haimirich. The Haimirich Empire yed a major role in this change.

    Anyone who would receive a personal letter from the emperor of Haimirich, <strong>''informing''</strong> the king he would subjugate theirnd, would be rmed. Abel never had the reason to exin himself for doing something because he wouldn''t be called a tyrant if he wasn''t rotten to the core. All he needed was to say his piece, and that was his admiration for the Fourth Princess; adding his ''word of advice'' to reconsider his heir because <strong>''personally'' </strong>Abel wouldn''t mind having a girl as an heir if she was capable.

    The overall letter might appear a little friendly and polite, but the hidden message in it was as clear as a day. Abel supported the Fourth Princess.

    It was no secret that Aries, Abel''s newly crowned empress, was fond of Veronika. Aries cinched everyone knew about that by sending a ton of gifts to Veronika, and the rumors in high society in the empire because Aries would always talk about her. Rumors traveled quickly to Chivisea, and when Veronika stepped foot in her home country, the unit of royal knights and the delegation that escorted the princess proved she was favored in Haimirich.

    To put it simply, Veronika''s backer was the empress and emperor of the Haimirich Empire. There must be a reason for them to admire the princess. Hence, many бк those who weren''t really happy with the crown prince or on bad terms with him бк saw this opportunity. With all their powers and might, they pressured the king to ept the princess''s request to give her a chance.

    Now, here they were.

    Veronika won, obviously, and fair and square. After all, her brother, the crown prince, was a foolish man, and his only advantage was that he had a tter chest and different genitalia.

    A smile turned up on Veronika''s lips, standing on the balcony of the pce she moved in after iming the crown of the crown princess. It had been several days since the coronation, but she couldn''t get enough of listening to the cheers that were mostly from women who wholeheartedly supported her.

    "Your Royal Highness." Suddenly, a woman disrupted the peaceful silence on the balcony as she stood by the door. "The Captain had arrived after hearing your summon."

    "That is quick." Veronika slowly turned on her heel as she faced her handmaiden.

    "Your Royal Highness, the Captain seemed upset. I heard he had beenining about the orders you gave him."

    "And what was heining about it?" asked Veronika as she marched inside the room while her handmaiden stepped aside to give way.

    The handmaiden followed a step behind her, whispering. "That he doesn''t see the reason they needed to march to and that our kingdom had nothing to do with. More than that, the surrounding territories around it were known for their notorious governance."

    "Heh." Veronika only let out a shallow breath, making her handmaiden sigh in worry.

    "Your Royal Highness, I know I am but a woman бк" the handmaiden halted when Veronika stopped. Seeing the crown princess look back at her sharply caused the former to gulp and bow. "Apologies."

    "The moment my father, the king, passed me the crown, that habit of demeaning our gender had disappeared. I will let this slip-up slide just once."

    "Yes, Your Royal Highness."

    Veronika rocked her head mildly. "So, what were you telling me?"

    "I am forever grateful to Your Royal Highness for choosing me as her handmaiden. But Your Royal Highness, as much as it pains me to say this, the captain had a convincing argument." The handmaiden cleared her throat as she exined. "Thend you wanted to survey will not benefit our Chivisea."<sub> </sub>

    "And what made you think it won''t?" Veronika arched a brow. "I had stayed silent for years and only now did I get the courage to fight for my people without letting a man steal my merits. I care for thisnd more than anyone, and thus, my actions, decisions, and orders will surely benefit Chivisea to greater heights."

    The handmaiden slowly gazed up at Veronika, and upon catching the confidence in thetter''s eyes, she bowed once again.

    "Understood, Your Royal Highness."

    "This is an investment," said Veronika, waving dismissively as she resumed her steps. "I might be in the good graces of the sovereigns of Haimirich, but I still need to repay their kindness. I am not the only one who needs their support, after all, and I cannot allow others to find my idleness an opportunity to take my spot."

    "This way, Your Royal Highness." The handmaiden picked up her pace and walked past Veronika, opening the door for her that leads to another room.

    Veronika smiled, but before she could enter, she gazed at the handmaiden. "Do you think my letter to the empress had reached Haimirich?"

    "You used the fastest falcon the king gifted you," replied her handmaiden. "I''m certain Her Majesty would''ve received it."

    "Great! I wonder what was her reaction?" Veronika hummed happily, continuing her steps, imagining Aries''s reaction once she read the letter.

    <strong>[ HAIMIRICH EMPIRE: ROSE PALACE ]</strong>

    The corner of Aries''s lips curled up, holding the teacup in front of her lips, eyes on the letter in her other hand.

    "Veronika is truly a wise decision," she whispered, keeping herposure when the door suddenly flew open. Her eyes slowly rose to the aghast Conan, watching how his mouth fell open while his eyes scanned the little hall for the empress''s mini tea party.

    "Your Majesty!!" Conan''s voice erupted in the air, gasping in disbelief.

    "You are so loud, Conan." Aries cocked her head to the side, blinking innocently. "Did His Majesty do something to rile you up again?"

    Conan gasped once more, scrunching his nose up in disdain. He then pointed at Aries, and at the unconsciousdies around the table where Aries was enjoying a cup of tea.

    "Youбн" his voice shook quietly, feeling his entire body tremble. "... are youpeting with His Majesty on who gives me a heart attack first!?"

    "Oh no, Conan. We''re notpetingбн" Aries smiled sweetly. "We had a bet."

    "That''s the same! Curse this empire бк ugh, my headбн" Conan reached for the jamb to prevent himself from copsing.

    "Oh,e on, Sir Conan. Don''t curse this empire. Being efficient is what I''m doing. I am having a tea party whilst wrapping up some of my business at the same time. I cannot take home any work tonight since Abel warned me for thest time he would tear all the documents if I didn''t pay attention to him during our shared nights."

    "What do you mean shared nights?" Conan snapped his eyes at her groggily. "You sleep together every night and he never fails to gloat about how passionate his nights were everywhere he goes."

    Aries chuckled. "Come, have some teaбн"

    "Hah???" His eyes dted, looking at her with equal dismay and disbelief. "Have some tea when all your esteemed guests are poisoned! Are you an addict? Stop poisoning people!"

    "Oh no, I didn''t. I figured poisoning people is really cruel." Aries shook her head, casting every unconsciousdy a nce. Like dolls, thedies slowly pushed themselves to sit upright, but even when their eyes were open, they were cloudy and nk.

    "See?" she looked back at Conan with a bright smile. "I didn''t poison them. I just let them have some beauty restбн so they won''t bother me with their endless tteries."

    "..." Conan opened and closed his mouth, but no words came out. This was what he had been dealing with for the past six months since Aries''s coronation.

    He had to deal with two versions of Abel... and his life couldn''t get any worse.

 Chapter 656 Better Off Left Alone

    <strong>Six long months</strong> had passed since they crowned Aries the empress of the Haimirich Empire. It wasn''t easy. Many things had changed and Aries had to adjust to this new role she voluntarily embraced. On top of fulfilling her duties as the empress, she also had to attend a few times in the night council, addressed the problems during the night, and get used to the fact this empire was split бк just like night and day.

    Aside from the empire''sw that every citizen must adhere to follow, there was also a separate set of rules the creatures of the night must strictly follow. One of them was to not touch or harm humans; they could blend in with them, though. It was the same for humans. Although humans weren''t aware of their existence, they weren''t allowed to purge someone and must report it to the local office if they found something suspicious or strange.

    By doing this, the empire could control the information and safeguard both races'' safety.

    Aries learned a lot in the past six months, especially how this empire runs. Her admiration for Abel obviously shot up; he might be unreasonable most of the time andcked remorse, but to be truthful, Abel was not only a wise emperor but the best ruler any country could have. Aside from being an infamous tyrant, there was more and deeper reason the Haimirich Empire hadsted this long and wasn''t getting any weaker.

    Abel might be a wicked viin in the eyes of others, but in Haimirich, he was everyone''s hero. Everyone owed him their peaceful lives away from wars and fear of invasion.

    "Don''t be angry." Aries let out a deep exhale as she looked at Conan''s gloomy mood. "Can''t you see? Everyone is fine."

    She raised her eyes at the door where the nobledies she invited for a tea party were walking out one after another. Thedies'' eyes were still cloudy and nk, but they were functioning. It was better than having someone else carry them to their carriage.

    "Goodnessбн" Conan grumbled listlessly, closing his eyes. He had already sat down on the armchair near Aries''s spot, melting on it to rest his exhausted body and mind.

    "I brewed you a tea to ease your fatigue and also a stress relief. You should drink it before it turns cold."

    Conan reopened his eyes and cocked his head to her. His expression was nk.

    "Lady Aries, every time you urge me to drink the tea you brewed, my anxiety keeps rising."

    "I didn''t poison it," she defended immediately. "I promise."

    "You didn''t poison itбн do you think I didn''t know that''s not the only thing you can do?"

    Augh escaped her mouth. "Trust me. I didn''t do anything to it."

    "I''ve been having trust issues in this ce," mumbled Conan, peeling his back from the chair to pick up the teacup. But just as he guided it to his lips, he nced over the rim, narrowing his eyes at her.

    "Should I drink it for you first?"

    "I''m reconsidering."

    Aries chuckled and shook her head. She couldn''t me Conan since she had once used him as a test subject a few months ago. It only happened once, and the terrifying nagging from Conan traumatized her. Still, Conan was too cautious and wouldn''t want it to happen again.

    "The tea inside that cup came from this pot." Aries carefully reached for the pot and poured herself a cup. When she picked up the teacup and saucer, she faced Conan with a smile. "You should really forgive me for that one time."<sub> </sub>

    "Ever heard of the phrase, forgiven but not forgotten?"

    "Goodnessбн just what should I do to prove I don''t n to harm you?" mumbled Aries, before taking a sip of tea. When she drank a considerable amount, she slowly ced the teacup and saucer back on the table before facing Conan. "See? It''s safe."

    Conan waited for a minute patiently, and then secretly sighed in relief when nothing happened to her.

    "I cannot let my guard down around here," heined, taking a sip of the tea. "I said I liked the teas you brewed, but it takes a lifetime of courage to take a sip."

    "Don''t make me sound like I''m some sort of maniac."

    Conan licked his lips while giving her a judgemental look. ''<strong>Wasn''t she turning into a madwoman?''</strong> was what he wanted to say, but Aries could be petty sometimes. She honestly scares him just the same as Abel. Both of them were like ticking time bombs.

    Aries didn''t lie about the tea, as it was truly safe. They enjoyed a moment of peace and quietness for a while before Conan''s voice pierced the air again.

    "Anyway, are you alright?" he asked, causing her brows to elevate. "About those dreams you''ve been having."

    "They''re not dreams, Your Grace," Aries corrected. "They''re visions."

    "Either way, are they still bothering you?"

    "Well, not much. After that strange and vague vision I had months ago, it''s been the same." Aries lowered her eyes, recalling the visions she had kept having since iming the throne.

    She had openly told everyone about it because she didn''t want to keep everyone in the dark. Especially now that she was a part of the night council, Aries had to tell things such as this to Abel or to Conan or Isaiah. After all, witches and vampires had their own abilities, and ying with someone''s mind was an easy fit to do.

    "That treeбн that child and elderly, and those who were hanged upon that treeбн" she mumbled, recalling what was clear to her until now. Aries was certain she had these visions, but she just couldn''t remember every little detail aside from these snippets.

    "That''s scaryбн" Conanmented before he smacked his lips. "His Majesty couldn''t enter that dream?"

    "He can''t, apparently. So we concluded it has something to do with Maleficent." Aries shrugged. "And even if he can, I have a feeling he shouldn''t."

    "A feeling?"

    "Mhm. A strong gut feeling that these visions are better off left alone." Aries leaned back leisurely. "I think Abel thought the same."

 Chapter 657 The Unholy Copy Of Life, That Was He Was.

    "I think Abel thought the same."

    p Conan rocked his head. He had been busy with the matters of the empire, so he wasn''t focusing on these things. That was Abel''s job, and Conan didn''t want to take responsibility.</anda>

    As Conan picked up the teacup, he caught the letter on the table which Aries was reading when he came in.

    "That letterбн" he trailed off while Aries raised her brows. "I heard the good news in Chivisea."

    Aries nced at the letter and bent over to pick it up. She then wordlessly passed it to Conan, making Conan tilt his head.

    "You want me to read it?" he asked while he carefully epted the letter.

    "Mhm." Aries retrieved her hand. "Veronika will be busy since she is adjusting, but she told me she would send some reinforcement to scout the northeast region."

    "Ohбн" Conan slowly opened the letter and much to his surprise, there was another small paper inside. He first read the small letter, and he figured it came from Veronika, the newly crowned princess of the Chivisea Dynasty. When his eyes veered to the other letter, his brows furrowed.

    "Ismael?" he mumbled, ncing up at Aries.

    "The Maganti Empire once oppressed Chivisea, so even when Ismael ascended the throne, the Maganti had topensate them for everything Joaquin did."

    "Butбн why did you use the crown princess to send his letters? Are you going to make her your middleman?"

    "I received a word from Ismael months ago," exined Aries. "I haven''t told you about it, but it''s mostly about his business with my brother. Before the selection, my brother was searching for someone."

    "Someone? Who?"

    Aries nodded. Conan knew many things and affairs in the empire, particrly Abel''s ns, ongoing projects, and issues. But Conan was working under the emperor and the only time he could spend some time with her was a short time. Therefore, they could barely catch up or just talk about not-so-important things to give their brains a break.

    "Javier Imperial, the fifth prince of the Maganti Empire." Her tone and expression turned solemn.

    "The one you said to know about Maleficent?"

    "Yes."

    "But why? Wasn''t he dead?"

    "He should''ve," replied Aries calmly. "I slewed him myself, felt how my de went through his flesh. But s, no one found his body."

    "Strange." Conan leaned back, resting his arm on the armrest with the open letter in his hand. "So, the Marquess had contacted the emperor about this concern?"<sub> </sub>

    "Yes." Aries nodded while Conan skimmed through Ismael''s letter. "Before my brother fell into his slumber, he was already in contact with Ismael."

    "He didn''t find him?"

    "He didn''t." A deep exhale slipped past Aries as she thought about the reason Dexter was working on this. He wanted to give her some peace, but sadly, he fell into aa. "I already interrogated the witches who migrated from Maganti to Haimirich, but unfortunately, those who were in contact with Joaquin and Javier were banished from the sisterhood. Abel and I and even His Grace Isaiah confirmed they were telling the truth."

    "And now, Ismael thinks you should find a different method to contact each other? That''s why you chose Chivisea?" Conan raised his eyes after reading the letter.

    "He believes this case has something to do with Javier бк he might be wrong бк but it''s no harm to be cautious. After all, the reason I have this power is because of Javier. Even if he isn''t involved with my brother''s current situation, I will still need to know what he had done to me," Aries expressed solemnly. "I won''t let a single person get away from what they had done to my brother. No matter how big or small their contribution, they must pay the price."

    Conan assessed the sharp look in Aries''s eyes, pressing his lips into a thin line. Thetter might be a little mischievous and risky, but she never once rested on uncovering the truth about who were the people involved in that incident that led Dexter into aa.

    "What about that youngdy of the House Norwood?" asked Conan, knowing there was nothing he could tell Aries. "Didn''t she say some people had approached her during the selection?"

    "I had some people to keep an eye on her." Aries shrugged nonchntly. "Even some witch from the Maganti. They were quite easy to deal with. So far, Lady Ivory is doing good after that incident when she arrived home."

    "Seriouslyбн" Conan shook his head. About this matter, he was also involved in it since the people who approached Lady Ivory were the same people who had been following Abel''s movements since the selection.

    The only reason they had done nothing yet was that at one time they did, the person they caught died on the spot. They were still figuring out how to catch them properly as it seemed they were set to die the moment Abel confront their existence.

    "I''ve been in this empire for a long time, and this is the first time I have had to deal with someone so troublesome." He sighed weakly. "Surely, people keep learning and things like that. Back in the day, it was always a head-to-head battle."

    "Peopleбн humans and non-humans alike will continue to adapt to this world''s changes," said Aries. "Since you''ve been here for a long time and Abel, I''m certain some people who lived around the same time as you learned how to deal with an untouchable devil."

    "True, but at the same time, the best way to deal with him is to leave him alone."

    "That''s like telling a newborn child not to cry."

    "People''s greed is just insatiable. Seriously. Is living that long that torturous? They just voluntarily knock on death''s door?" Another deep exhale slipped past Conan''s lips as he leaned back, folded the paper, and tossed it back to the table. "They haven''t seen how His Majesty gets angry."

    "Have you?"

    Conan raised his eyes at Aries. "I wished I hadn''t. That night in the covenбн isn''t even close."

    "What would he do if he got angry? Burn this world?"

    "No." Conan simply shrugged as he straightened his back. "Worse."

 Chapter 658 A Miracle And A Curse

    <strong>Worse. </strong>

    What a simple word that anyone could easily understand, yet so vague, soplicated, soplexбн or was it? Was the word just as Aries thought it was, or was her view simply subjective because it was Abel? Perhaps it was because that word weighed nothing on her, and it was useless for someone to tell her that.

    Ariesбн could be worse, too. Worst, even.

    "It''s been half a year, brotherбн" Aries''s eyes softened as she brush Dexter''s forehead with her fingertips. "Many things had happened, and many things had changed. The boutiqueбн Violet was doing a great job of running it. Matter of fact, Violet was able to buy a noble status. She''s loved by everyone, and seeing how she was living well puts my heart at ease."

    She retrieved her hand and held his hand. "I would like to throw a banquet for her to celebrate the asion. You''d be ted to see how she had aplished so much all on her own."

    p Deep in Aries''s heart, she was aware Dexter''s interest in this matter wasn''t as huge or deep as hers. Still, the reason she was sharing this was that it had been a habit with Dexter. Even though her brother wasn''t truly interested in something, he would listen to her and make her feel he was happy for her.</anda>

    "It''s sadбн" bitterness glowed in her eyes. "I''m sad, brother."

    Silence instantly descended upon the room as she waited for his usual reply or simply pats on the head. But just like the past half a year, none of those came.

    "I will never get used to this," whispered Aries, squeezing his hand mildly. "I don''t want to get used to this silence бк I can''t."

    "Everything is taking time, but I''ve been patient. I was being careful. Soon, all my hard work will bear fruit." She held his hand with both her hands, guiding it to her cheek. "I promise you. Once you open your eyes, I''ll be there for you, and you will only hear good things about me."

    Aries slowly closed her eyes, resting her cheek on their hands. For the past six months, Aries had never failed to visit him every single day. It didn''t matter if it was just a minute or an hour; she would make time to converse with him, even though he never replied.

    For sure, Aries would find a way to wake him up. Until then, she had to collect debts, and every single one who was responsible for that incident had to pay.

    Aries stayed with Dexter for several minutes, telling him tales she found a little interesting as the empress. When she caught Gustav appearing from the corner of her eyes, a shallow breath slipped past her subtly curled lips.

    "Very well." She cleared her throat. "I simply want to let you know I missed you every single day, brother. But I have to go now. Your sister is a busy woman, and she had an empire to manage on top of the march."

    Her eyes lingered on his face for another minute before she rested his hand on his side. His wounds had already healed naturally and through unnatural ways. It was still good to see that his handsome face had returned to its natural color. It felt reassuring in a way.

    After staring at him and making sure he was lyingfortably, Aries rose to her seat and faced Gustav. The head butler lowered his head; his demeanor was the same as before, but he had stopped wearing the butler uniform because of his newly acquired position as the Empress''s Lord Chambein. It was the same position Conan held but under the Empress.

    As Aries marched toward the exit and walked past Gustav, she cast him a side-eye.

    "How was the March?" she asked without taking a pause from her steps.<sub> </sub>

    "The march was doing better, Your Majesty." Gustav followed behind her, only to pick up his pace to open the door for her. "Thanks to you, everyone had survived the winter with almost zero casualties. Your brother will be ted."

    "Good." Aries rocked her head while Gustav held the door, but didn''t open it. "Any puny rumors regarding the House Vandran?"

    "Aside from people specting why the marquess didn''t attend your royal wedding, and why he had made no public appearance since," answered Gustav.

    This rumor had been going around after the wedding, and they were able to resolve it by doing grand gestures named under Dexter because<strong> ''he was away'' </strong>and he couldn''t attend the wedding. But since it had been half a year since the marquess made a public appearance, people couldn''t help but talk about it.

    "I see." She didn''t have any strong reaction to it, knowing this was inevitable.

    Gustav nodded once before the door creaked open loudly in her ears. As soon as the gap widened, Aries caught a few people standing just right outside. When she crossed the threshold, she stopped to look at the people bowing the moment the door opened.

    Standing outside was Aries''s officialdy-in-waiting, Suzanne Crook, the 16th princess of thend of Topia. Beside her was the Queen''s chief knight, Climaco. The rest were a few knights and servants standing on the side, motionless.

    Six months was truly a long time and in those months, many things had changed. Not just their titles, but their hearts as well.

    Aries didn''t say anything to them as she turned on her heel, walking through the hallway of the Rose Pce. Gustav, Suzanne, and Climaco followed behind her, and behind them were servants and knights.

    "Your Majesty," called Suzanne, hastening her pace until she was a step behind Aries. "A letter from the Emperor''s Pce came in this morning."

    Aries nced over her shoulder, only to see Suzanne handing her a letter with the emperor''s seal on it. Her steps slowly came to a halt, epting the letter from herdy-in-waiting. She didn''t wait to read it to her chamber as she opened it, skimming through it.

    Aries didn''t have any reaction as she folded the paper, lifting her eyes to Suzanne.

    "Gustav, Climaco, assist me to the inner pce." She cast Gustav a nonchnt look. "It seems someone upset His Majesty." When she set her eyes back to Suzanne, a subtle smile turned up on her face. "And Suzanne, you can now stop stalling time. Tell that witch from the night council I would love to meet her privately."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Suzanne lowered her head, not a bit fazed by the mention of the witch or the night council. It had been half a year, so Suzanne had adjusted well to the information that initially made her question everything in this world.

    They still followed Aries to the entrance of the Rose Pce, but Suzanne and the servants stayed. Meanwhile, Gustav and Climaco, and the queen''s soldiers followed her, only for the knights to disperse to return to their post when they reached the emperor''s pce. Gustav and Climaco escorted her inside.

    <strong>Half a yearбн</strong> might be short for many, but not to them. Half a year for someone living within the pce walls was a miracle... and a curse.

 Chapter 659 Worst

    It was wrong to hurt others, and doing it intentionally was just worse бк awful. But what was worst was witnessing it and still doing nothing. Abel was no God, he was no Demon, heбн was worse. However, there were too many people who were worse than him. Matter of fact, this world was just full of the worst people and it was funny because, in a way, that made Abel a bit better than everyone else.

    "Your Majesty! Please have mercy on me! I really didn''t mean to do it. It''s just that they threatened to kill me and my wife бк" a middle-aged man desperately clung to the emperor''s thigh as he gazed up at Abel. "Save бк save, save me, Your Majesty! I really didn''t want to do it! I бк I бк I will fix this! Just please, Your Majesty, don''t throw us out of your graces. Our family had always supported you since the start of your reign and I бк"

    "Are you telling me I owe you because you''ve been one of the emperor''s supporters for many years?" Abel cut him off with a delicately arched brow. "Funny, indeed. That your support also means I should turn a blind eye to your deeds."

    "That''s not what I meant, Your Majesty! I was wrong! I was бк" the old man winced when Abel grabbed a portion of his hair.

    "I would probably pity you if not for the fact the reputation you were sullying was my wife''s." Abel pulled his foot where the man was clinging to him, dragging the man by his hair to take him somewhere away from the documents. He didn''t want to redo them just because some filthy blood stain them.

    "Your Majesty!" the man''s voice exploded even louder, panic apparent in them. "Just this once! I will fix бк"

    Suddenly, Abel and the man paused when a loud voice from outside caressed their ears.

    "Her Majesty, the Empress has arrived!"

    The two-door of the emperor''s chancery carefully creaked open, revealing the empress in the middle. As the gap widened, Aries caught Abel grabbing a middle-aged man by the hair while thetter was clinging to the emperor''s leg.

    Both men turned their attention towards the door; Abel looked pissed while the middle-aged man''s eyes lit up as if staring at the only hope he got right now. No one could me this nobleman, for Aries was known to have a heart of gold.

    Many loved Aries and had epted her kindness was just as intense as her wrath. But overall, she was a forgiving empress, especially to those who deserved it. THOSE WHO DESERVED IT. Obviously, the nobleman didn''t think of that, as he only thought of getting out of this ce alive.

    "Your Majesty!" yelled the old man and kowtowed when Abel released him.

    Her eyes fell on the nobleman''s trembling back before lifting her gaze to Abel. Thetter was just staring back at her with sharp eyes, no affection or anything of the sort in them. It was the same for Aries. Her eyes were cold and distant, her expression was stiff.

    "Raise your head, Baron Clegg," ordered Aries softly, watching the man raise his pale face. "I heard His Majesty had summoned you after the allegations regarding the child prostitution were made public."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty, please believe me. I didn''t want to do it. Those in the underground simply threatened me to do as they say," the man exined with a shaking voice through his gritted teeth. "I reallyбн I really didn''t want to do it, but they forced me! Please, Your Majesty, I am also a victim here."

    While the man exined and begged for mercy, Aries and Abel stared at each other silently.

    "He will not go to trial, my dearest Empress." After a minute of quietness between the emperor and empress, Abel broke his silence. His voice was calm and low and also dangerous and dark. "This manбн had already confessed and thus, as the emperor of thisnd, I sentence him to death."

    The old man''s breath hitched, nearly choking as he raised his head at Abel. He then cast the empress a desperate look, silently praying to get her help.

    "Those childrenбн" Abel slowly gazed down at the man, eyes glinting maliciously. "... nothing you do can bring them back. Therefore, nothing can save you."

    "Your Majesty!" the man adjusted his position, so he was facing Abel while kneeling. He rubbed his palms against each other as he begged, "please, Your Majesty! Have mercy on me! I will cooperate and tell you everything I know about the growing ck market in the empire. I will do everything you tell me, just бк just don''t kill me."

    The man begged and begged, saying everything to get a little bit of sympathy from the callous devil. As he did so, he would constantly cast Aries a look and also begged her. The only person who could change the emperor''s mind, and actually the only person who could challenge the emperor''s orders, was the Empress.

    The emperor and the empress had equal standing and authority, so whenever an issuee up and both monarchs had opposing opinions, it would be a long discussion until both partiespromised. Some believed it was a terrible change for Haimirich, but many disagreed because Aries wasn''t as unforgiving as Abel.

    A shallow breath slipped past Aries''s lips, slowly marching inside until she plopped down on the divan.

    "I saidбн it would be nice to follow and monitor his movements," she dawdled, eyes on the nobleman who brought forth an ocean of brine to his eyes. "Baron Clegg, this empireбн is ours. We know everything that goes in here, and as such, we were aware of this matter even before this all came crashing down."

    Aries leaned back. "Your offer to cooperate and help usбн the royal knights were already apprehending those who were involved right this moment as we speak. Therefore, His Majesty was right. There''s nothing that can save you."

    The old man''s expression froze as his heart stopped for a moment. Abel arched a brow as he assessed the man before Aries beckoned Climaco and Gustav to take the man away. The moment Climaco held the man''s shoulders, thetter started struggling and begging more intensely, but all he saw before the door closed right in front of him was the empress staring back at him from the divan, and the emperor standing with his hands on his hips.

    The emperor and the empress both carried an air of nonchnce before the door was mmed closed and off he faced judgment.

 Chapter 660 The Main Antagonist Of The Story

    In any country or empire, no matter how big or small, there were always ces like the ck market. When Aries ascended the throne, she realized that aside from other state affairs; the emperor had been monitoring the ck market in the empire.

    Abel could''vepletely vanquished it if he so pleased, but the reason things such as this existed in the empire was that he allowed it. In his defense, it shouldn''t be just utter peace or total goodness. At that point, Aries wasn''t surprised because she heard stories about rebellion and even read the records. If she didn''t know better, she would think it was the natural cycle of any country.

    But s, Aries was aware some of those rebellions were incited by Abel''s people бк sometimes, Conan or Dexter would fuel the people.

    The ck market was the same, although it was centralized in drug trades, smuggled arms, and other illegal dealings, such as selling important information. Only recently did this ck market open up new market opportunities, which included child prostitution and human trafficking.

    When the pce got a wind of this, there was a long discussion between the empress and the emperor.

    The emperor wanted to obliterate the ck market in one go. No mercy. No pity. The empress, on the other hand, wanted to keep it for many reasons. In the end, the twopromised and agreed to keep it, but sabotage the trades whenever they transport children, women, and men to their destination.

    ? After many failed transactions, they concluded the reason those allegations toward Baron Clegg were made public was that those he was doing business with assumed he was the mole. Little did they know, the pce was just being patient until now to track down every single one of them and figure out who was the initiator of this business.

    "Did we get enough information?" asked Aries as Abel plopped down beside her the moment Baron Clegg''s screams disappeared.

    "Well, of course, darling." Abel sprawled his arms over the back of the armrest, cocking his head to the coffee table. "It''s all in there."

    Aries nced at the documents on the table in front of them, bending over to pick up the reports.

    "The people in the ck market had be increasingly sly," she said, straightening her back, eyes on the documents in her hand. "I didn''t expect it would take us this long before we apprehend them."

    "People are amusing, darling. If you lived long enough, you''d find everyone interesting. They just kept evolving бк it''s fascinating!"

    "Is that why you kept bad guys around?" she cast him a side eye, only to catch him shrug indifferently.

    "Not me, but Conan. He uses them as one of his cards to keep me busy every once in a while." Abel paused and frowned. "Now that I think about it, he kept collecting these cards and had been using them one after another without giving me a break. I think he''s the main antagonist of this story. Should we punish him?"

    "I can''t me him, since he needed you to stay still." Aries skimmed through the documents as she spoke. "Although he cannot im innocence too, because he had kept all this stuff and is now backfiring."<sub> </sub>

    "See?" Abel cocked his head. "We are paying for the price and have less time together."

    "That''s not what I meant by backfiring, Abel." She carefully flipped to the next page. "I meant people had taken advantage of how loose the empire was within the borders. Other countries wouldn''t dare start a war with us, but inside? More and more people appear to take advantage of their privilege as citizens. It wouldn''t be a surprise if some outsiders snuck inside and, after staying within the walls, they realized they could get away from almost everything if they were careful enough."

    There was silence after Aries''s remarks as Abel stared at her side profile. For the next minutes, they listened to the sound of paper each time she turned to the next page of this long detailed report.

    "The destinationбн" Aries narrowed her eyes after reaching the most important part of the report.

    "The destination of those trades was the fort of the Cez Empire," Abel answered, watching her turn her head to him. "ording to Conan''s intel, the trades would happen in Haimirich. They transport the victims, which they call goods, to the Cez Empire, and then another ship would pick them up. That ship would then disappear out of nowhere."

    "The Cez Empire." The space between her brows creased. "I heard about it back then, and they should''ve got a wind of these shady trades within their empire. Unless they were involved in this, there''s no way they would allow it. Are we going to war soon, Abel?"

    "With the Cez Empire? No." His answer was quick and confident.

    "How can you say that with such confidence?"

    "Because I''ve lived long enough to know things such as this. The aforementioned empire was currently busy defending its borders for a few years now. I heard their strongest warrior, who was rumored to have a blood of a dragon, was the one defending it at the moment," exined in a knowing tone Abel, raising both his brows at her. "That also means the empire wasn''t focusing on these things at the moment. In other words, whoever was doing these trades made a lot of consideration of their routes to hide their actual destinations. The effort was amazing, and Imend their diligence."

    Aries pursed her lips as she absorbed all these pieces of additional information like a sponge.

    "One interesting fact is that those people we sent to follow the ships and infiltrated them under a disguise never returned as well," he added in an amused tone, catching her attention as he folded his arms while leaning back. "They just disappear like magic."

    "Abel, do you think this has something to do withбн?"

    "Yes, darling." His lips stretched as his eyes glinted with equal amusement and menace. "There are only a few ces where things and people disappear without a trace. One of them is the maind, darling. Interesting, isn''t it?"

 Chapter 661 I Didnt Go Insane For Nothing

    "There are only a few ces where things and people disappear without a trace. One of them is the maind, darling. Interesting, isn''t it?"

    Aries held her breath and carefully released it through her lips. "Indeed, especially when their king was in a deep slumber for almost a year now."

    "Well, when one falls, another will rise," Abelmented.

    "Did Sir Conan hear about it already?"

    "He always knows, darling." Abel shrugged. "The only thing he doesn''t know is his father sleeping just around the corner and the fall of his royal family."

    Her mouth quivered as they parted, looking at Abel in disbelief. "That meansбн he thinks his family had something to do with this?"

    "We don''t know if they werepletely innocent, darling." Abel tilted his head to the side. "After all, my dearest friend might be a good man, but we can never know if that goodness in his heart was passed on to his children."

    "Are you sayingбн?"

    "I''m simply not ruling out the possibility," he rified with a delicately arched brow. "I told you, darling. Not because you came from a loving family, everyone had the same experience as you. If things like this don''t happen, then there wouldn''t be any bloodshed whenever someone rises to power."

    "Furthermore, there are only a few people who will have an interest in provoking me and actually do something to induce a reaction from me," he added in a rather fascinated manner. "By taking out the king, it''ll be easier to mobilize capable pureblooded individuals."

    "Abelбн" Aries breathed out, eyes shaking. "I will repeat it again. Are we going to war? Not with the Cez Empire, but with the new sovereign of the maind?"

    This time, the crease on the corner of his lips grew more apparent, looking straight into her eyes.

    "Maybe, but not soon." His tone was just as confident as his first answer, cocking his head to the table before them. "You didn''t notice the letter underneath the documents, darling."

    Aries slowly shifted her eyes and just as he imed, there was a small envelope on the same spot where she picked up the documents. The envelope looked exquisite with golden rim lines, and the seal on it was something she hadn''t seen anywhere before.

    "How luxurious," whispered Aries, picking up the paper, only to realize he hadn''t opened it yet. "You didn''t read it yet?"

    "I don''t have any reason to."

    "Why?"

    Abel shrugged when she cast him a look. "When Isaiah handed it to me and I saw how fine it looks, I already know the content. No need to waste my energy to confirm it."

    "It won''t harm anyone if you take a bit of time to skim through it." Aries shook her head. "I think it has something to do with your ego."

    "I begged to disagree, darling. I''m just amazing."

    "In?" Aries paused and looked back at him.

    "Generally." Abel arched a brow. "Can''t you see how dazzling I am?"<sub> </sub>

    Aries opened and closed her mouth, running her tongue across her inner cheek. "You are, indeed, dazzling, my love. Did you take the time to fix your hair today? You''re getting more and more amazing and dashing every minute."

    "I''ll take that as apliment."

    "That''s apliment." She set her eyes back to the envelope to continue opening it. "And that''s the reason I don''t look at you much nowadays. Your beauty is just so divine бк it''s blinding."

    "Awwбн" Abel crossed his arms, resting his leg over the other, leaning his back against the armrest, eyes on her. "You are so sweet, but I don''t mind taking care of my blind wife. At the very least, the cause of your loss of sight is worth it and romantic."

    Aries paused once again to cast him a cursory look. She tried her best to maintain herposed countenance, but each time he opened those lips, they were akin to trebuchets breaking through her defenses.

    "Be grateful I love you," she muttered as she set her eyes back on the envelope.

    "I am blessed бк thank you."

    "This was the longest time I opened a letter. Seriously, Abel, stop distracting me." Her voice grew a little irritated with all the other nonsense he had spewed. "Would it hurt you if you stay focused for a moment? Our empire might go to war soon, and each of their soldiers is equivalent to a hundred of ours."

    "Perhaps a thousand."

    Aries put down the letter and envelope on herp to face him squarely. "That is why you need to take it seriously, Abel. If each of their soldiers is equivalent to a thousand of ours, that''ll put us at a disadvantage. Even if we had a couple hundred thousand soldiers, and they have around ten thousand, our chances of winning are still slim."

    "And why is that?" he cocked his head to the side.

    "Are you not listening?"

    "I am listening, my love, my wife, my darling, my sun and moon and stars, my life, my universe, my queen." Her frown deepened at the long list of endearment he had spewed that was the alternative to calling her full name whenever he was riled at her. "It''s just that I believe you need to relearn thews of arithmetic."

    <strong>Thatst remark. </strong>That was the reason he had to spew all those endearments, for he was about to offend her. Did he think he would get away with it just because he tried to be as devoted as possible?

    "I hope you have a good reason for saying that, Your Majesty." A thinyer of frost coated her eyes as her expression turned firm. "Why do you think my calctions are incorrect?"

    Abel pointed up a finger and then pointed it at her. "How many soldiers do you count?" he asked, and then pointed at himself. "How about me?"

    "There''s Conan too, Isaiah, Sunny бк"

    "We''re not sending Sunny to a war."

    "Then, Conan, Isaiah бк we''ll dig up Marse too, Morro, Rome, Gustav, your beloved knight Climaco, and the knights and nobles who were capable vampires. Let''s not forget those witches who were also avid supporters of the empress and et cetera." Abel shrugged. "Don''t forget that this empire doesn''t only mobilize human soldiers, darling."

    "Don''t underestimate our home," he added confidently. "I didn''t go insane for nothing, Aries."

 Chapter 662 [Bonus Chapter]A Letter From An Old Friend

    "Don''t underestimate our home. I didn''t go insane for nothing, Aries."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line while holding Abel''s gaze.

    "You were right," she said, rocking her head as she slowly set her eyes on the envelope. "I think I should relearn arithmetic."

    "Heh. I''m avable." He pped, wiggling his brows yfully when she cast him a sidelong nce. "It just so happened I am truly interested in this subject that my knowledge of it was vast."

    "I will have to check my schedule for that," replied Aries offhandedly whilst opening the letter and ignoring the distractions around.

    Of course, if Abel was going to annoy her, he has a reason behind it aside from rifying things. And his reason for today was to squeeze himself more into her busy schedule. Their nights together were too less for him.

    "Hmm..." Aries furrowed her brows as she read the lengthy letter. When she finished reading its content, she lifted her head at him. "You are quite rxed, Abel. If you already know the content of this letter, shouldn''t you be scheming at the moment?"

    "Scheme is too vile, my dearest."

    "Any ns about this?"

    "Yes. I thought of one." Abel ced his hands across his chest and nodded. "I''ll go by instinct."

    "That is the opposite of a n, darling."

    "I don''t need to n. All I need is trust my love." He dawdled coquettishly.

    "Oh my god, Abel." Her expression died, shaking her head incredulously. "At times like this, I cannot help but wonder if the man who had run this empire was actually you or His Grace Isaiah."

    "Hey, that''s low!" he frowned. "They seemed to have nned everything already --"

    "And we''re in for a ride?"

    "Darling, what''s with that tone? It will be a fun ride!"

    "This is big, Abel!" Aries eximed, raising the letter once again. "Whatever flowery words this person used, the message behind it was as clear as day."

    "Heh... I have a history with everyone."

    "And that is the reason everyone had something inmon." Her eyes sharpened, keeping them on this letter that went around in a circle when he could''ve finished it in one sentence. "They all hate you to the point they want you dead."

    "I... don''t die," he stressed, and his tone this time made her look back at him. "I can''t die. I am not mortal."

    Aries opened and closed her mouth, but her tongue kept rolling back to her throat. In the end, she simply pressed her lips into a thin line. Those remarks he had uttered didn''t sound arrogant nor did it sound like he was taunting her; it was more like a desperate wish he used to have. Everyone was aware Abel used to seek death before he became its bringer.

    "Have you found peace, at least?" Her voice was softer after a moment.

    "Yes." He smiled subtly, extending his arm to her. "Not just peace, but a home that isn''t a carnage."

    Abel yed with the tip of her hair while staring at her lovingly. "Don''t worry about this letter, darling. You have me, and I have you. You''re the holder of Maleficent... and I am a Grimsbanne, my sweet darling."

    "I''ll try," whispered Aries, adjusting her seat and carefullyying down on her side. She rested her head on hisp, lifting her legs up to the divan, the letter in her hand. "I''m scared, Abel. Always."<sub> </sub>

    "And why is that?"

    "I don''t want it to happen again." Her voice lowered as her soft eyes narrowed. "What happened to Rikhill... I cannot go through that again, Abel. I cannot take another loss, so the fury in my heart about my brother is something I cannot quench until I see their blood spill."

    "You cannot me me for being thorough. My confidence and arrogance back then had led us all to the downfall of Rikhill," she continued. "I learned that lesson in a hellish way. Haimirich is now mynd and the people in it were my subject. The man who ruled over thisnd was none other than my husband; if you fall, Haimirich will also fall."

    "I had long epted that the problems we have are something just as bigger as thisnd and just as heavier as our crowns." Aries slowly rolled until on her back, eyes up to him. "I am your empress and my duty is to protect this empire -- you."

    Abel brushed her hair gently, keeping his eyes on her determined pair of eyes.

    "You never fail to make my heart flutter, darling." He smiled, brushing her lower lips with the back of his fingers. "No wonder that the queen was the most powerful piece in the game of chess. Having a powerful queen... just urges the king to stay still and wee the word people call vulnerability."

    "So, what is our n now?" she breathed out after a minute, raising the letter to let him know what she meant by that. Abel snapped his eyes at it tenderly, and the corner of his lips slowly curled up into a smirk.

    "There were many things we can do, but should we really?" he slowly set his eyes back to her. "You want to uncover the truth behind the incident involving the marquess, and I... want to hear their cry for friendship and brotherhood. Let''s see how this bond canst."

    The two of them stared at each other in silence, and in that silence, they had agreed on something. Trouble woulde one way or another, so instead of turning it down over and over, they would just face it and then end its roots once and for all.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>[ To an old friend I hold dearly in my heart,</strong>

    <strong>It has been a long time since you left, but you had never left my mind since. I would constantly wonder how you have been; was the world out there treating you well? And at times like that, I would recall the times you would visit my father and have a good time with me. </strong>

    <strong>Funny, isn''t it, my friend?</strong>

    <strong>My little brother used to loathe you for taking my time, but in the end, he took you from mepletely. I realized he didn''t hate you just as much as he loathed me. He was cruel, but he is my little brother and I had forgiven him.</strong>

    <strong>It is the same with you, my friend. I had forgiven you for leaving your dearest friend behind just because you were fascinated by a mortal''s words. </strong>

    <strong>My forbearance for waiting for you to return and everyone had run thin. I realized I shouldn''t dwell on the passivity of this world and people. Therefore, I had decided and put matters into my hands. </strong>

    <strong>I will visit you soon, my friend. I hope you are just as ted as I am.</strong>

    <strong>Before I end this letter, I heard you''ve found a beautiful wife. I wonder if she was the person who would read this letter? I hope she does, my friend. I rewrote this letter repeatedly and spent an entire evening perfecting it to leave a good impression. </strong>

    <strong>The thought of her makes my heart pound. I guess we''re still the same, after all.</strong>

    <strong>Your dearest friend,</strong>

    <strong>Maximus ]</strong>

 Chapter 663 Maximus IV

    Aries had questions; she was curious. After reading the letter Abel received from the maind, her curiosity peaked. She heard stories from Abel of what his life was like before, and he had told her things he remembered. His interest in his life on the maind was close to none, and if Aries going toment, Abel''s life on the maind seemed just a tiny bit uneventful. It made sense, though. Abel wouldn''t leave the maind if there were things that could upy him.

    Since that was the case, Aries thought it was useless to keep asking Abel. Her husband was just useless in matters of rtion. Everyone was his dearest friends бк even those he had killed. Although Abel had told her little things about this man, Maximus, the information wasn''t enough to help her, so she knew how to deal with him.

    Therefore, dayster since receiving the letter, Aries made time to meet Conan.

    "Hang!"

    <strong>Thud!</strong>

    Aries let out a shallow breath as she caught Conan and several knights surrounding the gallows as they executed the people they had arrested in the ck market. She heard about the trial and their death sentence, but they weren''t being executed publicly for political reasons.

    "... therefore, you were sentenced to be hanged!" while the official was reading the list of crimes, the next batch of people walked up to the scaffold after the knights moved the first batch of dead men to the wagon like bags of wheat.

    The moment the official read their sentence, the executioner pulled down the lever, opening the surface each man was standing on. The official continued reading as some knights waited for a moment before removing the bodies and then putting the noose on the next batch. It was a cycle that everyone had gotten used to, and these felons deserved it.

    "Lord Hakebourne," called Aries as she approached Conan''s figure near the gallows, making Conan look back at her.

    "Your Majesty?" Conan furrowed his brows before he beckoned a neck bow out of formality. When Conan did, the knights around paused to pay respect to the empress.

    "Don''t mind me. Do not dy your duties because of me бк continue." Aries waved dismissively and then set her eyes back to Conan. "A word?"

    Conan nced around before he nodded. "Of course, Your Majesty."

    With that being said, Conan assisted Aries to the open hallway near the execution tform. He was overseeing the execution and making sure no puny business would ur. Standing in the open hallway connecting two castles, Aries nced to her side.

    Suzanne lowered her head and wordlessly created her distance from the two. She had been assisting Aries, and everywhere the empress go, Suzanne had to be with her at all times. Unless Aries had given her a different order.

    "What do I owe this visit, Your Majesty? You could''ve summoned me to the Rose Pce instead of going to the execution yourself," said Conan politely.

    He and Aries might be friends and don''t consider their position privately, but it was different when they were out in the public. No one knew who was listening; hence, they had to maintain a level of diplomatic rapport.

    "I think you already have an idea why I sought you in the middle of the day." Aries cast him a sidelong nce, then kept her gaze on the execution tform from a distance. "Have you heard about the letter from the future guest of the empire, Lord Hakebourne?"<sub> </sub>

    Conan pressed his lips into a thin line as he lowered his head. "Yes, Your Majesty."

    "I had discussed it with His Majesty, but it was proven pointless. His Majesty isn''t certain of the true nature of his friendship with that man." Aries didn''t beat around the bush. "Therefore, as the empress, who is also in charge of the royal household and not just themonwealth, I came here in hopes you might enlighten me."

    There was a moment of silence between Aries and Conan. She tried to be patient as she waited for him to answer while killing time, watching the execution from the distance.

    "Lord Hakebourne," she called after a minute of silence. "You were correct. I could''ve just summoned you to the Rose Pce. However, I came here and questioned you here as the empress of thisnd and not just your friend. I made a promise to my friend I would wait until he was ready to share his story, but as the empress, I do not have much time."

    "Moreover, I heard about the execution. There were times I would watch it even if it turns my stomach just because I had to remind myself of what I should do if the situation calls it," she added sternly, not giving him a single look. "Abel used to say if not them, then it''s me. I''d rather have others suffer than my family. Selfish, it may sound, but that is just how this world was. If you don''t eat, you''d be the meal. And I nned to have a feast."

    Aries slowly turned her head to Conan. Her expression was stony and her eyes distant, the usual look she would sport with everyone but rarely in front of him.

    "This manбн King Maximus IV, what is he like?" she asked once again, holding his gaze so he wouldn''t look away.

    Conan pressed his lips and let out a shallow breath. He slowly looked away, setting his eyes back to the execution.

    "Maximus IVбн is like His Majesty," answered Conan under his breath.

    "Are you saying he is just as crazy бк intense as my husband?" Aries also shifted her eyes in the direction he was staring at.

    "No, Your Majesty." Conan''s eyes lowered as they softened from equal bitterness and personal affliction. "The man I used to call my big brother is just like His Majesty when he was on the maind. They were both kind, curious, and generous."

    p "Before His Majesty became a tyrant, he was the kindest and the most thoughtful person I had known. And I detested him for that. I used to think it was because he was a Grimsbanne and thus, he acts superior by being kind and mature," he continued solemnly, recalling what Abel was like on the maind. "I disliked him even more when he had grown close to the only brother I am genuinely fond of."</anda>

    "What made you leave the maind, Lord Hakebourne?" she asked, already aware of this part of the story. "If you are truly fond of your brother and detested Abel, why did you follow him and didn''t stay with your brother?"

    This time, Conan took a pause as his jaw tightened. "Because the brother I knew wasn''t the brother I truly have." He carefully turned his head to Aries.

    "Maximus IV is the paragon of deception, Your Majesty. You will never even know you were dancing to his tune until he stops the music. But that doesn''t what make him truly dangerous. What truly made him dangerous was that he had always exalted His Majesty." he added. "An admiration that is disregarded can incite an evil oue."

    "If he could hurt me for being friends with His Majesty, he wouldn''t definitely let you off for capturing his heart."

 Chapter 664 So? Still Nothing?

    "If he could hurt me for being friends with His Majesty, he wouldn''t definitely let you off for capturing his heart."

    Conan didn''t directly say it, but Aries got a gist of what he meant; an admiration turned into an obsession. And as someone who was shackled by these types of trickery of words facade as love, admiration, and such, Aries was aware of how lethal this feeling could develop. It was just as dangerous as anger. Perhaps more dangerous.

    "So he''s that type, huh?" Aries rocked her head in understanding; a little d this visit was fruitful.

    "He''s a little moreplicated than that. Actually, even when he is my brother, I can''tpletely say I know him." Conan smacked his lips and shrugged mildly. "But one thing I do know about him is his prejudice against the outside world бк humans in particr."

    "And why is that?"

    "We stayed on the maind because of them." A deep exhale slipped past his lips, setting his eyes back to thest batch of criminals standing on the gallows, whilst a knight was putting the noose around their necks one by one. "He, many think it was the humans'' fault why we are locked up like criminals inside a vast cage."

    "Even I had the same thinking back then. Why are we supposed to stay on the maind? And why is it a crime to leave this ce? The maind is far too cramped for us, vampires, who were far superior to those who think the world outside is just theirs. Things like that used to annoy me," added Conan quietly. "In the end, I realized it was not the humans'' fault they were scared of us. It was the people in the past''s fault and the man in power. The King."

    "If not for them, humans wouldn''t be oblivious to our existence. And therefore, they could have done something about their fears. Our father, the king, was adamant about maintaining what the previous kings had protected; the maind." His eyes slowly narrowed. "But who would believe that? That we needed protection instead of eptance? Humans are fragile creatures who break so easily, and yet the king wanted to protect the maind?"

    "Our kingбн was not guarding the maind, nor had he ever genuinely protected his people. The people he was shielding were those humans who had nothing to do with him. He was scared to let our existence known. People surely got fed up with that бк I did, so I left." Conan slowly faced Aries as he summarized what it was like to be a citizen of that aforementionednd. "I guessed that''s the reason for his downfall."

    "Youбн think your father is dead?"

    "If he isn''t, Maximus will never be king." Conan shook his head. "None of his children were worthy of recing him."

    "Because you all share the same sentiments?"

    "And the goal to spite him. He''s very much aware that if he abdicated the throne and pass it to one of his children, no one will continue his will."

    "Conanбн" Aries''s eyes softened as she clenched her teeth. "Do you still hate him?"

    "Now? I don''t anymore. I just don''t have any familial attachment to him or to any of my siblings. They were the worst of the worst. I''m already content with my life right now. However, it can''t be helped. Now that my brother rose to power, it seems they nned to lower the walls of the maind and be a part of this world." Another deep breath escaped his mouth. "It just so happened Haimirich was a powerful empire and very ideal to have a proper connection for their grand introductions."

    "I guess the visit will be a diplomatic official visit, huh?"

    "Maybeбн maybe not." Conan scratched his temple in irritation with just the sheer thought of people from the maind бк particrly his brother бк stepping foot in a ce Abel built from scratch. "Can we not amodate them?"

    "Abel and I had agreed we will wee them with open arms," said Aries, watching him frown deeper. "After all, this might mean change, Lord Hakebourne. Change is the only constant thing in this world. I also think it is about time for humans to know the existence of vampires and other creatures who walk on the surface of this world with us."

    Conan straightened his back and let out a faint huff. "It''ll be dangerous."

    "Danger had always lurked around the corner ready to gnaw us at the drop of a hat," she argued in a knowing tone. "It''ll be the same if we deny it or face it."<sub> </sub>

    "You were the empress of thisnd. I''m certain Haimirich will be fine."

    "That is motivating and pressuring at the same time."

    "I am your subject, Your Majesty. Therefore, my opinion, which we both know was highly subjective,pares nothing to yours."

    Aries gazed at him with a subtle smile. Every time Conan tries to tter her, it always surprised her how he sounded so mature and a gentleman. He differed greatly from the Conan who would shamelessly weep and clung to her feet for something so stupid.

    "Conan," she called, making his brows elevate in the absence of honorific. "What will you do if you see your father?"

    His brows knitted, confused, but he still answered. "Nothing."

    "I mean if you knew he is not dead and showed up right in front of you?"

    "Nothing."

    "Are you sure?"

    "Mhm."

    "What if I tell you I know where he is?"

    This time, Conan didn''t answer, and simply assessed herplex expression. Even though her expression didn''t give way to what she truly meant by that, Conan''s gut feeling told him she was being serious. Aries wouldn''t throw this sequence of questions just to joke with him. Abel, perhaps, but not Aries.

    "I''ll take a leap of faith," she said after a minute of silence. "Come. Follow me."

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    Conan stood by the door in one of the chambers in the forbidden mansion. He barely blinked, his pupils dting, his attention on the person lying on the bed. Aries looked back at him as she stood a meter from the bed.

    "So?" she asked with a delicately arched brow. "Still, nothing?"

 Chapter 665 Four Months Ago

    <strong>[ FLASHBACK ]</strong>

    Aries, Abel, Sunny, and Isaiah stood inside the chamber in the forbidden mansion. Aries was standing beside the bed while Abel and Sunny were across from her. Isaiah was leaning against the wall, his arms folded under his chest. There was also another person in the corner of the chamber, Sunny''s uncle, Leon La Crox.

    "I can''t." Aries shook her head as she breathed out heavily. "I cannot force him out of his slumber."

    "Hmmбн" Abel folded his arms, gazing down at the man lying motionless on the bed. "That is strange."

    "Your Majesty, we already tried everything with everything we can." Isaiah peeled his back from the wall when he rested enough after performing a powerful yet silent spell to wake this man up together with Sunny, Aries, and Abel.

    "There are only two reasons he wouldn''t wake up even when we already tried," he continued, watching Aries look back at him while Sunny raise her head. "One, in particr, is that we needed more power to make this spell work."

    Right now, even if the four of them joined forces in waking up Conan''s father, maybe it wasn''t still enough. Aries''s control over her witch significantly improved three months after she was crowned the empress. Against an average witch, Aries could win without a doubt.

    However, she was still like a toddler who barely learned how to standpared to Isaiah, who had honed not just his swordsmanship but also his control in creating effective spells. Abel might be originally a vampire, but he lived long enough to master different spells. Sunny might be a child, but she was a Grimsbanne, and this little girl''s raw talent made her a lot better than most experienced witches.

    To put it simply, they had to lower the mana they release to match the power Aries could control to not overwhelm her. Perhaps, if she had full control of her witch and had a full understanding of her prowess, she could do it without their help. But that would take time бк forcing it out of her could only harm her.

    "What is the other one?" Aries asked.

    "He doesn''t want to wake up," answered Isaiah after several seconds of silence. "There were many reasons a vampire enter their slumber. One of themon reasons was just like with the Marquess. If their core blood was damaged or they fought to exhaustion, they will hibernate to replenish the lost energy. The only time they would wake up is when their blood finishes repairing the damages from within."

    "Anothermon reason is theirck of will to wake up," he continued solemnly, exining this matter to her since Aries was too impatient in this matter. "Unless you are someone more powerful than him, only then you can force him out of his slumber."

    "Isn''t Abel a lot more powerful than him?" Aries returned almost immediately.

    "Darling, I am, indeed, at the top of the blood hierarchy, but I''m not a born witch," Abel chimed in a knowing tone. "Isaiah is still a better warlock than I am."

    "Then why can''t you do it, Your Grace?"

    "Because my ability has its restrictions," answered Isaiah solemnly. "Not because someone is a witch or a warlock, they can do all the spells if they work hard. Hard work can only contribute a little amount to this matter. Some born witches can only master ten spells at most throughout their lifetime."

    Isaiah unfolded his arms and opened his palm, which was covered by a ck leather glove. "Only a few can do more than that, at least ten percent of witches. And there''s only one percent who could perform ancient and forbidden spells. Those I had mentioned were one of the most powerful spells."

    "It all depends on one''s mana flow," he added, flexing his fingers as if some strings were attached to his fingertips. When Isaiah closed his fist, Aries''s heart thudded as her breath was taken from her. Only when Abelined did Isaiah release his grip.

    "I can''t breathe, Isaiah." Abel frowned, and the air in the room returned.

    Sunny''s eyes twinkled, propping her little arms against the edge of the bed. "Uncle, can you teach Sunny how to do that?"<sub> </sub>

    "Did your previous mentor didn''t teach you that?" asked Isaiah after casting Sunny a quick nce.

    "Noбн" Aries gasped for air as she clutched her chest. "Marse didn''t exin things like this. She just taught me to move things through my mind and stab straw dolls with Abel''s hair on it."

    "Marse is so rude! Seriously!" Abelmented incredulously.

    "Grandpa, until when will pretty grandma stay in seclusion?"

    "I wish it''ll be forever."

    Isaiah let out a faint sigh upon hearing Aries''s answer, ignoring Sunny and Abel''s shallow conversation.

    "I''m not sure what sort of exercise she wants to train you for," he remarked as it seemed Aries barely had any idea of the basics.

    "Marse just doesn''t have any experience of teaching someone." Abel shrugged. "She''s probably freestyling."

    "My pretty grandma is still outstanding." Sunny grinned brightly. "Even though my grandmama barely knows the fundamentals of alchemy, she still improved a lot."

    "Indeed." Isaiah rocked his head, setting his attention back to Aries. "You will need to relearn everything from scratch, Your Majesty. Although it is amazing you had this progress, it could end as a double-edged sword that can harm you as well."

    Abel raised a finger and nodded. "Sure. How did I not think of that?"

    "Grandpa, you did. It''s just that you will be jealous if the huge uncle spends more time with my grandmama than you."

    "But what about him?" Aries pointed at the man sleeping on the table. "I do not mind relearning things from the start, but time is passing. Until when will we keep this secret from Sir Conan?"

    "About thatбн" Abel rubbed his chin, darting his eyes between Aries and the man on the bed. "... it''s your call, darling."

    "Pardon?"

    "Grandpa said since you''re the only one who feels bad about keeping this secret from the handsome uncle, you tell him when you feel like it," Sunny exined, while Abel nodded at the little girl in satisfaction.

    "Good job, Tony," praised Abel, making Sunny''s smile stretch wider.

    Abel then lifted his eyes back to Aries. "I''m telling you, though. If you think he disliked Isaiah бк he does бк but he doesn''t swing his sword each time he sees him. Not anymore, at least. Conan is really different when ites to his family. Telling him his defenseless father is just around might have a terrible oue. He might end him and put him in an eternal slumber."

 Chapter 666 So Jealous He Was Able To Hurt You This Much

    <strong>[ PRESENT TIME ]</strong>

    "So? Still nothing?"

    For the rest who had always known Conan''s father was just within their reach, they had no conscience in keeping him in the dark. Aries was the only person who had always intended to tell Conan, but the reason she hadn''t told him until now was that she was waiting for the right time.

    "Whatбн" Conan moved his dted eyes to Aries, still stunned at this surprise he didn''t expect or wanted. "What is he doing here?"

    "As you can see, he is stillбн recovering," exined Aries, setting her eyes back to the bed. "When Sunny arrived in Haimirich, she wasn''t alone."

    "He''s been here that long?"

    "We couldn''t tell you бк I think you already why."

    Conan slowly curled his hands into a fist, clenching his teeth until his jaw tightened. He could feel his heart racing, making him almost out of breath.

    "Why did she bring him here?" he breathed out, barely controlling his body from shaking.

    "ording to her, this man is Tilly бк Abel''s sister бк friend. Sunny helped him because of their friendship and took him here. By his condition, we all agreed to assume the new monarch took the bloody way of overthrowing the throne," she detailed, followed by more important details of what Aries was aware of, avoiding adding more of her own assumptions since they weren''t confirmed yet.

    "There were many things we had yet uncovered, but what we are certain of was a little girl saved this man, and another cruel person rose to power." Aries slowly faced Conan; thetter didn''t move an inch from his spot. "And that person, Maximus IV, your brother, ising to Haimirich for reasons we do not know."

    Conan kept his gaze on Aries, swallowing down the frustrating tension in his throat.

    "She shouldn''t have saved him," he said, dragging his feet inside until he was standing a meter from her. "She should''ve let him kill him."

    Aries opened her lips but shut them again. She looked away from him, setting her eyes back to the man on the bed.

    "I am not sure of the roots of your resentment toward this man, but I think Sunny made the right call. My gut feeling tells me we''ll need him at one point, and my gut instinct never failed me, Conan." Her expression turned stiff as her breathing calmed down.

    Conan gulped once more, holding his trembling fist to his side firmly. "If you kept this a secret from me, why are you telling me this now?"<sub> </sub>

    "Obviously, because it is your blood kin that is about to cause a problem with mine." She cast him a sidelong nce. "I vowed to protect Haimirich and my people in it, and that includes you. I think we''ve kept it a secret long enough, and it is time for you to face this truth regardless of the personal vendetta you had against them."

    "Moreover, I need you more than anyone right now," she continued, and this time, her tone was softer. "Abel knew them бк those in the maind бк but his obsession for thrills had be a part of his existence. Sunny? just knew a thing or two and what she says was all there was. No one else in this empire knows about the maind and the royal family more than you."

    Aries slowly pivoted on her heel to face him squarely. "Fighting someone is not the problem, but fighting without knowing the enemy is dangerous. Iбн cannot afford to lower my guards." She nodded her head encouragingly.

    "Help meбн protect Haimirich, our friends, and our family."

    Aries and Conan stared at each other in silence. The longer he looked at her, the more his fist eventually loosened as his tensed shoulders rxed.

    "Did you figure I would''ve sundered the filth of his form if you didn''t ask me to leave my sword behind?" he asked, peeling his eyes from her to the man sleeping on the bed. "If only I had my sword, I would''ve split his shoulders from his spine."

    "We wouldn''t keep it a secret this long if we''re not aware of what you could do to a defenseless man."

    "Defenselessбн life is hauntingly amazing. Once noble, now unbowed." The side of his lips curled up in ridicule; this was the least he could do to express his resentment to his father. "A ce where he was excellenceбн he was marred, betrayed by his own noble ideas he would''ve served."

    Aries peeked at him silently, pressing her lips into a thin line. His eyes were sharp and bore deep malice, revealing his disdain toward his own father. She didn''t know the roots of his hatred, and she might not know the real reason for it in this lifetime. It was not like she was ready to hear how this deep grudge was formed.

    "For now, we''ll keep him and perhaps use him as leverage," Aries spoke after her prolonged silence. "Even though we had an idea, the maind may have ns to lower the walls that had protected theirnds. There may be more underlying ns we have yet to uncover. It''s better to use everything бк small or big бк to its maximum potential."

    "I won''t kill him," reassured Conan, since that was what she was indirectly telling him. He turned his head to Aries, bearing a firm expression. "Giving him a release of death is mercy. It''s better to see him so defenseless and have no control over his life. It''s satisfying when someone who was so full of himself, and thought everything should adhere to his words, reaches this pathetic point in their life."

    "That''s reassuring to hear," she whispered, staying with Conan for several more minutes.

    The two of them just stood on the same spot, staring at the person on the bed in silence. After a moment, Aries excused herself to return to her post. Reluctance was apparent in her eyes, but she chose to trust Conan and his level of rationality to control his urges to kill his father.

    Standing alone beside the bed, Conan kept his eyes on his father. He looked just the same as how he hadst seen him.

    "Youбн are so lucky." His quiet voice pierced the still air. "But I guess that damn son of yours is luckier. I''m so envious he was able to hurt you this much."

 Chapter 667 Someone They Both Understood But Took In Differently

    "Youбн are so lucky. But I guess that damn son of yours is luckier. I''m so envious he was able to hurt you this much."

    Conan took a step closer to the bed, keeping his distant and unfeeling pair of eyes on his father. He slowly extended his arm toward his father''s neck, flexing his fingers until his nails grew longer and sharper.

    "I could''ve killed you so easily now, Your Majesty," came out an airy and quiet voice. "But I won''t. Not when you have already lost everything but your life. I am looking for the day you wille face to face with this reality."

    The corner of his lips curled up into a sinister smirk, retrieving his hand while straightening his back.

    "Perhaps that is the reason he had yet to awaken," he continued, turning his head toward the open door. "Once he opens those eyes, he surely knows that what awaits him is this unspeakable dishonor he brought upon his existence. He''d rather die than know one of his sons he used to call a bunch of disgrace had finally shown what disgrace means."

    Abel, who came as silently as possible, was leaning against the jamb. He had his arms folded under his chest. He had been here since Aries left the forbidden mansion and just watched Conan stand beside the bed.

    "I''m not saying I support Maximus, but I cannot deny I am d to see his father bedridden," Conan confessed through his gritted teeth. "I loathed the blood in me бк I loathed him, Your Majesty. He deserved the downfall of his reign."

    "I don''t think I am the person you should tell me those words, Conan." Abel shrugged, peeling his side from the jamb as he marched inside. Abel sauntered toward the window, looking out at the vast expanse surrounding the forbidden mansion. "I do not share the same sentiments. Your father and I were good friends in the past, and I bet the reason Sunny saved him was that my dearest sister had grown fond of him as well."

    "I wouldn''t be surprised if he had been bugging my sister before everything went south on thatnd," he added, holding his hand behind him. "My dearest friendбн is an unfortunate man."

    "He is good to you, but definitely not to me."

    "And you were good to me, but definitely not to him or to anyone in the royal family," Abel returned calmly, narrowing his eyes as he gazed at Conan''s faint reflection on the ss. "Conan, I took you under my wing for only one reason, and that is because you are his son. You stayed until now because you earned it."

    "It is not my position to meddle with your family matters, but you and your fatherбн are the only few friends I have," he continued, tapping his wrist mildly. "Therefore, as someone who had been watching from the distance, the problem lies with the weight of the world."

    "Your father is a king. He has people to protect, subdue, and tame," Abel added. "It would be easier if the nation he was overseeing is just like Haimirich or those countries reigned by the oblivious humans. However, he has a country full of vampires бк capable pureblooded vampires. Not to mention, the Grimsbanne, who was said to carry the blood of the devil."<sub> </sub>

    Abel paused for a moment as he lowered his eyes. As soon as he did, he caught Sunny running with a freshly plucked flower in her hand, a stick on the other. Following her was Leon, Sunny''s uncle, who was currently the one looking after her at all times.

    "Being a ruler almost means you have the world at your feet. This was the case for many, but for him, for your father, is quite the opposite. His options were limited, and he couldn''t make a decision without considering all possibilities. Not only did he have to protect the Grimsbanne but also the peace of those in the past sought." Abel slowly turned to face Conan. "Conan, my dearest vassal, have you ever wondered why the maind was kept away from the rest of the world?"

    "Because this world is particrly unforgiving to our kind. The maind, those vampires whose footsteps had long vanished, had known that." His eyes softened. "Although many in thatnd think it was unfair, I was certain that is because they didn''t know what it means to be out here and share this world with everyone."

    Abel wasn''t sure if he had this sort of conversation with him in the past, but even if he did, it was better to remind Conan of what they already knew: <strong>the truth. </strong>

    "The king had simply upheld our peace, even if that means he had to sacrifice his own бк his everything," he added softly. "I''m sorry you have be a part of his sacrifice, Conan."

    Conan''s jaw tightened, holding Abel''s gaze before looking away from him. It was not like he didn''t know everything Abel said, but he had mentally denied that already. Because if Conan epted everything that Abel spewed and the realization that dawned on him living outside the maind, it would only mean his feelings weren''t valid.

    "Regardless of his reasonsбн" came out Conan''s shaking voice. "... he is aware that neglecting his own family and forcing us to be the sacrificialmbs to serve his purpose will create this catastrophic oue."

    "That, I don''t disagree." Abel sauntered toward Conan and nted a hand on thetter''s shoulder. "I''m not asking you to forgive him, Conan. What I am telling you is youбн have us now. Don''t let this get to you; your brother will use this feeling against you."

    He squeezed Conan''s shoulder mildly. "Aries would''ve said the same." Abel stared at Conan''s side profile for a moment before retrieving his hand.

    Without a word, Abel walked away from the chamber. As soon as he crossed the threshold, he paused and turned to his right. There, standing at the end of the hallway and in front of the window, was Isaiah. Thetter was just standing and staring at the window, but Abel was aware this was Isaiah''s way offorting Conan.

    ''He should just show up to Conan so they can fight all night,'' thought Abel, resuming his steps to join his wife for dinner. ''That will be moreforting and therapeutic.''

 Chapter 668 The Next Pope

    <strong>One weekterбн</strong>

    "I am honored to have my request granted, Your Majesty."

    Aries gazed at the old yet beautiful woman sitting across from her inside the empress''s chancery. Marcia Graves was a part of the night council, a Wan leader, and also a high priestess of the church. The irony, but she was well-respected.

    Aries already had most of the people''s support when she was crowned the empress. But because Marcia Graves, who was said to be the strongest candidate to be the next pope, supported the new empress, Aries''s supporters had be solid and so secure that a disparaging rumor wouldn''t be enough to shake it.

    Of course, that support was not free. Aries simply told Suzanne to stall her some time, and Suzanne managed to stall this private meeting for half a year.

    "I had always thought of you, Reverend Mother, and I am guilt ridden for not being able to amodate you promptly. For that, I apologize for making you wait this long."

    "There is nothing to apologize for, Your Majesty. I am certain you made a lot of adjustments to your new position as the empress and as the member of the night council."

    "It''s reassuring you understood me well, Reverend Mother." Aries kept a friendly smile at the beautiful elderly whose grace didn''t pale inparison to those youngdies in high society. "I heard His Holiness'' health wasn''t getting any better."

    "His Holiness is blessed by the heavens. Though he is old, he was satisfied with being able to serve his purpose until now."

    "I seeбн" Aries rocked her head mildly. "... I''m d he will not have any regrets."

    Marcia Graves smiled, getting Aries''s hint with her remarks. "Your Majesty, it seemed you already know the purpose of why I requested an audience with you. Therefore, I will cut to the chase."

    "I prefer that, Reverend Mother."

    "As you already know, the heavens might''ve blessed his holiness for the triumphs he had earned over the years. However, as he aged, his obsession with the word he spread had slowly be more and more absurd," exined Marcia, making Aries arch a brow. "Thest time His Holiness went to a missionary, a report returned that it wasn''t like any other missionary he had done in the past."

    Marcia''s expression turned stiff, keeping her sharp eyes on Aries.

    "I am aware His Holiness had lost his missionary zeal due to his old age, but I didn''t anticipate what he could do to regain it," she continued solemnly, making Aries tilt her head slightly.

    In the Haimirich Empire, the pce wasn''t particrly close to the church since Abel would justmit more sphemy if the church involve itself with the emperor''s affairs. Both the Church and the Pce maintained a respectable rtionship, and the church also focuses on doing what it could without implicating the emperor.

    It was the same for the pce. The only time the emperor would bother the church was if they offended him, or they caused disharmony in the empire. To put it simply, Abel didn''t know much about the church and its affairs, and so did Aries.

    "From what I had heard when I went to the samend yearster, it seemed His Holiness had preached about something else. Something unusual, a topic he wouldn''t dare broach within the borders of the empire," Marcia continued as a glint shed across her eyes.

    "What did the Holiness do, Reverend Mother?"<sub> </sub>

    "He purged people бк women, in particr."

    Aries drew a breath as she raised her chin, guessing where this was leading. "Womenбн who were suspected of being witches?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty. Women who were seen as witches for being too beautiful, too outspoken, who are naturally good, skilled бк or just anything," Marcia stressed. "They said women were held underwater during their trial. If they float, they are they were guilty and thus executed. But if they sunk and drowned, they were innocent."

    "This all happened during His Holiness'' missionary," she added under her breath. "He had gone to many towns after that with his newfound zeal, and now, he was nning to turn against the empire and start preaching about it."

    "That will be troublesome since he is still the pope and his words still have their weight. It will greatly affect your candidacy." Aries rocked her head calmly, assessing the suppressed fire in the old woman''s eyes. "But Reverend Mother, if I may ask, why did you only report this now?"

    "His Majesty would never care. In fact, if he knew about what happened, he might fuel itбн for the thrill."

    <strong>''Make sense,'' </strong>Ariesmented, mentally nodding her head. Abel might''ve protected humans, witches, vampires, and other creatures in the Haimirich Empire. However, this one in particr was more of a personal interest.

    "So?" she asked, tilting her head to the side. "What sort of help do you want from me, Mother Reverend? Lest you are not aware of my disposition, I, as an empress, couldn''t meddle with the church''s affairs and decisions unless it was affecting the empire."

    Marcia cleared her throat and looked her straight in the eye. "Your support, Your Majesty."

    "My rmendation? That''s all?" Aries''s brows rose. "Many devotees of the church support you already, and I doubt my rmendation will even change anything."

    "Many devotees might support me, but I''m certain the general council thinks otherwise. Your rmendation will secure my candidacy. After all, you and His Majesty''s words will have an authorized vote for it."

    Aries pressed her lips as she pondered about it. It was true the emperor and empress had one vote each, but their votes had the same count as the rest of the first council.

    "Reverend Mother, I find this interesting," said Aries before she agree or refuse Marcia''s request. "You are a skilled witch. Do you really need to go through all these nuisances?"

    "I had spent my life honing my craft, indeed. However, I had reached this far fighting fair and square," exined Marcia proudly. "I had seen different men who imed to have unbending faith but ended up getting blind to worldly matters. Some had yed underhanded, but not me, and that makes me proud."

    Aries let out a brief chuckle, nodding in understanding. "Once again, Reverend Mother, you inspired me. Very well. If my rmendation is what you need, then I shall give it to you. Don''t worry about His Majesty, you got his vote as well."

    "You have my gratitude, Your Majesty. The sisterhood will surely be at ease once they hear the news." Marcia heaved a sigh of relief, only for it to stop, when Aries spoke again.

    "But in one condition." Marcia slowly raised her head, only to see the sly smirk stered on Aries. "I will secure your position as the next pope бк the first woman to be ordained the pope and be an inspiration for many of us. But there''s something I might need from you and the church."

    Aries''s lips stretched until her eyes were squinting. "Do you want to hear it, Reverend Mother?"

 Chapter 669 [Bonus Chapter]All Thrones Come With A Price

    All thronese with a price, and Aries had known that fact before ascending the throne. Her im for the throne might be easier than when shepeted with Davien for the title of the crown princess. Using simple tricks here and there to eliminate Lady Ivory and Princess Agnes and turn them against each other, Aries didn''t break a sweat.

    The real challengees after the coronation. Aside from the adjustments Aries had to do, she had to take note of each member of the night council to use them ordingly. After all, the night''s council consisted of capable noble n leaders and Wan leaders.

    Although the members of the night council don''t meddle with the empire''s affairs that included the emperor''s subjects, Aries had to use them to their full extent. Abel''s reason for gathering these amazing and capable individuals was so they could kill him. But now that times had changed, and the empire had weed an empress, Aries wanted to use the night council to its full potential.

    She would start with the witchesбн and the church.

    If Abel split his power between three factions: the imperialist, the aristocrats, and the church, then Aries had nned to unite them all under her thumb. The aristocratic faction had a friendlier rtionship with the imperialist with Aries as the empress, but she still had to find the same equilibrium with the church.

    Marcia Graves just gave Aries an idea of how she could influence the church. People might call this sphemy, but Aries had epted she no longer had a ce in the paradise people called Heaven the moment she prayed for the devil''s salvation.

    "You seemed to be in a good mood today, Your Majesty." Suzanne''s soothing voice snapped Aries back to the currentpse, opening her eyes at Suzanne. "Was your meeting with the Reverend Mother worthwhile?"

    Aries let out a shallow breath, watching Suzanne prepare her robe while Aries was still dipped in the tub.

    "It was," said Aries, leaning back that revealed a bit of her chest, before her breast went under the water again. "Better than I expected."

    Suzanne nced at Aries before heading to light up the rest of the scented candles on the stand. "I''m d to hear that your hard work is slowly paying off."

    "You too, Suzanne." Aries kept her eyes on Suzanne''s figure while thetter was lighting up the match. "I wouldn''t have such a better oue if you weren''t able to stall me some time until now."

    "I''m simply rying your message, Your Majesty," Suzanne humbled, looking back at Aries after she lighted up the rest of the candle. "It''s not like they can force themselves to meet you if you do not want to."

    "Marcia is a witch and she could meet me and force me into a situation," argued Aries while Suzanne sauntered towards the low stool near the tub. "Since when did you start discrediting yourself, Suzanne?"

    "I''m simply speaking of the truth, Your Majesty."

    "You now sound like Gertrude."

    "Gertrude is quite sharp for a maid," said Suzanne as she sat on the low stool, taking Aries''s hand to wipe the empress''s fingertips. "I''m still learning a lot, Your Majesty. Knowing the woman I served is a wise empress of thisnd, I do not want a simple aplishment to make mecent. Compare to Your Majesty, I believe I still have no rights to deserve such merits."

    "Aren''t you meticulous, Suzanne?"

    "For a wise and intelligent empress, as yourdy-in-waiting, I cannot fall behind."

    "You''ve changed." Aries pointed out, watching Suzanne wipe the bit of ink that clung to Aries''s hand while working earlier today. "Do you hate me, Suzanne?"

    Suzanne slowly looked back at Aries. "No, Your Majesty. How dare I?"

    "The spark in your eyes is gone."

    "That is because these eyes had seen the flip side of the coin, Your Majesty." Suzanne smiled subtly. "There might be things I cannot unsee anymore, like the coven. However, I learned a lot as yourdy-in-waiting. I can no longer go back to that ignorant princess I used to be."<sub> </sub>

    "Oh, Suzanne." Aries let out a faint chuckle, leaning back while Suzanne helped her clean her hands. "You make me feel a little terrible."

    "Do not be, Your Majesty. I prefer this version of myself. It gave me purpose."

    Aries cocked her head and assessed Suzanne. Thetter didn''t stop from meticulously cleaning the very corner of Aries''s fingertips before walking around the tub to clean her other hand. Suzanne shouldn''t have stayed in the empire after the coronation.

    However, Aries invited her to be herdy-in-waiting, which Suzanne thoughtlessly epted. They were friends, after all. Hence, Suzanne didn''t have the slightest idea of what Aries could actually do. Fortunately, Aries''s calctions were correct.

    Suzanne was smart and a wisedy. Aries always thought if Suzanne wanted to be an empress, she would be just as capable as Lady Ivory; princess Agnes was a special case.

    "I can still remember the day you came to know the truth behind the empire." Aries broke the prolonged silence between them, watching Suzanne look back at her. "How was Sybil?"

    "Thest time I heard, she is getting married."

    "How niceбн" Aries smiled, remembering her sweetest friend during the selection. "I hope she would be blessed with a good husband."

    "I would''ve been arranged for a marriage if I returned," said Suzanne with a smile. "I know, Your Majesty already knows this, but the reason I epted the selection was that I wanted to avoid marriage."

    "Now that you mention it, I don''t remember asking for the reason. Does this have something to do with the reason you do not want to marry a man you don''t even know?"

    Suzanne nced at Aries slightly. "No, Your Majesty. I do not want to get married at all."

    "And why is that?"

    "I justбн don''t think I am cut out for it." Suzanne gazed down as her hand grew careful in cleaning up Aries''s hand. "I have nothing against those who wanted to have a family, but I think that should be the same for those who don''t want to have one."

    She then lifted her eyes at Aries and smiled. "I''ve always believed we should salute those who were brave enough to produce a child at the times like this. But I think it was the same for those who chose not to."

    "Sometimesбн you surprise me, Suzanne." Aries chuckled.

    "I am already content being by your side, Your Majesty."

    "How reassuring."

    "Should I add more warm water, Your Majesty?"

    "No need." Aries shook her head.

    "But the people from the emperor''s pce send a word His Majesty would join you a littlete tonight."

    "I know." The side of Aries''s lips curled up, making Suzanne''s brows raise at the slight mischief that flickered across the empress''s eyes.

 Chapter 670 [Bonus Chapter]She Had Done So Many Exciting Things And This Was Just The Beginning

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    "Ahhбн"

    Abel swung the shovel to rest over his shoulder, standing on the closed coffin he had harrowed all alone. He gazed at the surface of the coffin impatiently, wondering if he should split this coffin in half with Marse in it, or wake her up in a much gentler manner.

    "For fuck''s sake, Abel. What in the world do you not understand with ''leave me the fuck alone?''" A muffled voice from within the coffin caressed his ears.

    "I was just thinking about how to wake you up, sister." Abel chuckled, tapping his foot against the surface he was standing on. "It''s nice to know you were very much awake."

    "Anyone will wake up with all that sound you made while harrowing thend. This only shows you terribly need a workout."

    <strong>ck!</strong>

    Marse jolted when the tip of the shovel suddenly pierced through the coffin and barely stopped an inch from her face. A bit of soilnded on her beautiful face, and that slowly turned her paleplexion to a redder tint.

    "This bastardбн" she ground her teeth as the shovel was pulled back. "Are you out of your mind?! Did you dig me up just to kill me?"

    "Well, not really." Abel used the shovel to pull up the lid of the coffin, grinning smugly the moment he came face to face with his sister. "I''m just checking whether you''re really awake or talking in your sleep."

    "I will kill you." Her voice dropped as her expression died.

    Abel let out a wave ofughter, squatting down with his arm on his leg. "It''s nice to see you again, Vera. But I didn''t dig you up to chat with you."

    "I don''t care about your reason, Abel. The only time I will get out of this coffin is when your wife managed to control her powers."

    "About that, my darling empress had to relearn witchcraft because apparently, you were slowly killing her."

    Marse snickered. "Said, who? That necromancer named Isaiah?"

    "Oh, Abel. You don''t understand, do you?" she continued, along with her ridiculing waves ofughter. "Ram isn''t just a simple witch. She is Maleficent. She doesn''t need to learn the basics. She just needs to learn how to control herself!"

    "Indeed, I do not understand." Abel''s smile stretched until his eyes were squinting. "That is why I came here, because you do not understand it as well."

    Abel suddenly grabbed her neck, pinning it down, which made her wince in pain.

    "As I''ve said, I didn''te here to chat with you. I came here to talk to my sister," dawdled Abel, tightening his grip around her neck to the point he could snap it if he add a little bit of strength.

    "Ah бк cough бк fuck бк" Marse coughed in between, unable to move a muscle as her entire body was being restrained by Isaiah, Abel, and Sunny''s active spell. She clenched her teeth, ring daggers at him. "She doesn''t want to talk to you. When she heard you harrowing the soil, she hid."

    "Well, she bettere out now before I make her watch how I will sunder the filthy existence of that man she was so obsessed with and carve his flesh." Abel''s eyes widened, his eyes glowing in bright red as his fangs grew longer. "Cez Empireбн that''s the ce, isn''t it?"

    Marse''s pupils slowly went wide before they constricted. In a snap of the finger, the look in her eyes changed as her expression turned vicious.<sub> </sub>

    "You do that to my Eddy and I will make sure you willment my name, brother." She smirked, stressing each syble of her remark. Marse''s face didn''t change, but the air around her, the look in her eyes, and her tone all screamed madness,ck of rationality and fear, and confidence. A person who could make anyone''s skin crawl.

    "Good to see you, Marse. It''s been a while." Abel smiled in satisfaction, getting what he wanted. "I will cut to the chase. What do you know?"

    "I know nothing, for I had been busy chasing out this witch out of my beautiful body."

    "Don''t be so confident, Marse. That witch told me everything that was happening. Do you think if you died here, in my territory, you will return to where your story started?" Abel''s grip tightened, but her expression didn''t change. He smirked, letting out weak and dark chuckles. "No. It will end, my dearest sister."

    This time, Marse''s expression turned firm. "You want to know about Maleficent?" she asked, and then smirked.

    "Ahhбн you already know what will happen if she embraces Maleficentpletely, huh?" she let out a ridiculing scoff, keeping her eyes locked with his. "Is this about the maind? Oh, brother. I left after you. How would I know?"

    "I seeбн so this is what you want." Abel''s eyelids drooped as the veins on the back of his hand protruded. "Goodbye, sister."

    Marse kept her stony expression until she caught him raising his other hand. His fingernails slowly grew longer and sharper, aiming directly into her chest. When he thrust it forward, she panicked.

    "The Bathory!" Marse held her breath as his fingertips pierced her chest, but only skin deep.

    Abel quirked his brows as he remembered a very familiar n name back on the maind.

    "During my vulnerability, they gave me an offer to extend my life," exined Marse as a thinyer of frost covered her eyes. "That''s how I got this witch leeching on me to sustain me until I recovered enough."

    "Youбн were vulnerable?"

    Marse smirked. "I''ve done so many exciting things, brother. Actually, you should thank me for stealing a bit of Maleficent. If not, she would''ve died, consumed that night in the coven."

    "And what did you give them in return?"

    "Time. A blessing, or what others call a second chance, but a curse for some." Her eyes glinted with pride. "It would''ve been my greatest masterpiece of all time, if not for you, who is just everywhere and isn''t affected by it."

    "So, it was done on purposeбн"

    "Everything has its purpose, Abel." Marse smirk. "Even Maximus'' visit has its purpose. I guess you already know what he wants."

    The two of them stared at each other in silence. It did not surprise Abel Marse knew about Maximus because it seemed this was already nned years before.

    Domination.

    "Oh, Marseбн" Abel shook his head mildly as he let out shallow waves ofughter. "... Mathilda will gnaw the life out of you."

 Chapter 671 Play For Me

    "Oh, Marseбн Mathilda will gnaw the life out of you."

    Abel grinned malevolently, barely stopping himself from ending Marse right this second. The Grimsbanne n бк the originals бк didn''t have the normal familial rtionship. Although they didn''t have anything against each other, killing each other wouldn''t be an issue if they have any reason to.

    So it was understandable Marse бк the real one бк had done things that could ensnare her sibling intentionally or not. She was selfish, and so were the rest of the Originals.

    "She might." Marse snickered, returning Abel''s smirk with an equal malevolence. "Though I fear she might not catch up with howzy she is."

    "We''ll see, Marse. We will see." Abel slowly released Marse''s neck, noticing the prints of his hand on her pale skin. Yet Marse wasn''t bothered with it.

    "Let me out of here, Abel," she requested, attempting to move her body but to no avail. "Let me out of here."

    Abel frowned, but the ridicule in his eyes was apparent. "If you want to be out, go crawl your way out of here. Although I fear that will take some time."

    "Abel!!"

    "Oh, sister. I have a gift for you." Abel chuckled, walking to the edge of the pit and jumping out of it. When he stood back on the surface, Isaiah was already standing nearby. "There''s no need to put the lid back on."

    Marse''s eyes lit up, inmed by the orders her brother gave out. "Try... and I will kill you!"

    "Oh, I''ll wait for it." Abel looked back over the pit and smirked. "Until then, may you enjoy the taste of dirt."

    Abelughed in mirth as he walked away, leaving the pit he dug for Isaiah to cover. He could still hear Marse''s furious screams, shouting his name as she seethed in anger, but that only put him in a better mood. Since they didn''t have any familial attachments, Abel didn''t have any reason to take Marse''s feelings into consideration.

    Marse should be d she was still alive even after she thoughtlessly conspired with people who had the slim chance to take down their bloodline; thanks to the other soul inside that rotten flesh.

    As Abel walked away from the vast expanse of the forbidden mansion, his steps skidded to a halt upon hearing the faint sound of piano keys. He slowly turned his head in the sound''s direction, smirking.

    <strong>****** BREAK ******</strong>

    Abel''s steps were careful, stopping by the open door of the spacious room. He leaned his side against the jamb, folding his arms under his chest. He didn''t need to look around since there was only one item in this empty room; the piano.

    His eyesnded on the piano where his beloved was. The light from the moonlight stretched toward the piano and Aries, making her appear like the moon goddess no one could ever reach.

    What a stunning sight to behold.

    "What do you think?" Aries lifted her fingers from the keys, turning her head in his direction. "Beautiful?"

    "Stunning," said Abel, peeling his side from the jamb and sauntering toward her.

    "I am mesmerized," he added as he propped his elbow on the side of the piano.

    "Not me, but the song," she humored with a soft chortle.

    "It''s beautiful."

    "I missed a few keys," she pointed out, recalling repeating some parts of the music.

    "Doesn''t make it less pleasing in the ears."

    Aries looked at him and shook her head, realizing arguing over such a trivial matter wasn''t worth mentioning. It wasn''t like there was something to argue about it, anyway.

    "I heard you will bete tonight," she remarked, tapping a key that produced a soft tune. "So I thought I should go to you first."

    "Any reason for that?" he cocked his head.

    "Do I need any reason to see my husband? It''s not like we''re hiding our rtionship anymore."

    "Ohбн"

    Aries bit her inner lower lip to stop herself fromughing out loud.

    "I just thought you''ve alwayse to me," exined Aries, peeling her eyes from him as she continued pressing other keys until it produced this mellow tune that was so pleasant in the ear. "I shouldn''t be passive and exert some effort to meet you when you can''t."

    "My heart feels like melting," he mused humorously, pushing himself away from the piano to stand behind her. "Tell me more about your realization of love, darling."<sub> </sub>

    Aries chuckled, ncing over her shoulders when he nted his hands on it.

    "Well, I met with Marcia todayбн" she trailed off when he heard him grunt, chuckling. "Rightбн that isn''t romantic, is it?"

    "Marcia, the night council, or whoever demon is there бк I don''t want to hear about them tonight from that mouth of yours. They''re mine."

    "Oh, Abel." Aries shook her head mildly once again. She didn''t speak for a moment, allowing the sound of the piano fills this vast empty space with some life.

    "Aren''t you tired, my love?" she asked out of nowhere.

    "Of?"

    "Everything?"

    Abel didn''t answer immediately, massaging her shoulders mildly. "Not anymore. You?"

    "Not really." Her tone this time lowered with a tinge of exhaustion.

    "You should rest, darling."

    "No. I need to get things done."

    "Aries." Abel slowly peeled his hands from her shoulder and then sat beside her. "Everyone can wait. Rest if you need be."

    Her hands stopped over the keys, letting the fading tune drift in the inbound breeze. Aries turned to him and smiled subtly.

    "I already am," came out a soft voice, leaning her head over his shoulder. "y for me."

    "Of course." He let out a weak chuckle but didn''t put his hands on the keys immediately.

    "You smell like soil."

    "I dug my little sister for some enlightenment."

    "Is she still not fine?"

    "My sisterбн she''s very much fine, unfortunately. The other one? I don''t know about her."

    "So, she''s still having trouble controlling Marse."

    "She''s persisting, at least." Abel arched his brow when Aries carefully wrapped her arms around his waist. She then rested her chin on his shoulder, gazing at his side profile. "You''re especiallyбн touchy today, my love."

    "Don''t you like it?"

    "I love it, but it makes me wonder what you need from me?"

    "Your love?"

    "Hahбн" Abel rocked his head, raising his hand to the piano keys, leaving his other hand still. "My love, huh?"

    He then turned to Aries and smiled. "You''re making me happy." And then he started pressing the keys.

    "Abel?" she called, hearing him hum as he raised his brows. "Have I told you I''m always thankful?"

    "For?"

    "Despite the things that had happened, I''m thankful that I still have things to be thankful for. Since getting the crown, we barely have time for each other. I missed you, I missed times like thisбн and I feel like we will barely have time once Maximus arrives in the empire."

    "Are you worried about him?"

    "I''m worried about what he''d do," she corrected. "I know you are capable, butбн my gut feeling told me it won''t be that easy."

 Chapter 672 A Sad Dream

    The sound of chimes caressed Aries''s ears, standing under the linden tree where eleven women were hanged upon it. Each of them had bells hanging on their toes, ringing each time the wind blew past them.

    Aries had been in this dream many, many times. But when she raised her head, deep lines appeared in between her brows as her mouth fell open. In the past visions, she had never seen the faces of the women hanging on this tree. All she could remember was the dirty and worn-out dress they wore.

    "That child and elderlyбн" whispered Aries, her eyes lingered on the familiar little girl and olddy swaying along with the gust of wind. She looked back to check if those two were standing on the spot where they would usually stand while looking at her silently.

    They weren''t there.

    "They screamed, <strong>''burn the witch!''</strong> and I thought they meant to burn her in the stakesбн" Aries froze as a familiar vengeful voice tickled her ears, making her turn to the woman standing beside her. "... this fury is burning me, creating this inferno that seeks to harm."

    Just like the first time Aries had seen this woman in this dream, the sadness, pain, and anger mixed into one filled the woman''s eyes and voice. The woman spoke the same resentment through her gritted teeth, eyes burning.

    "... they asked for it." Once again, just like in the previous dream, the woman faced Aries. This time, however, Aries maintained her calm, looking back at the woman''s eye. "Soon, Maleficent. We''ll have this world at our feet."

    "I''m not Maleficent," whispered Aries. "You are."

    Her breath hitched when the woman suddenly gripped her shoulders. "Do not deny me."

    "I am not denying you," Aries stressed, keeping herposure since thest time she had gotten nothing from her. "I am simply epting you as a part of me, not my entire persona."

    This time, the woman''s reaction wasn''t aggressive while staring into Aries''s eyes.

    "They killed themбн" tears formed in the corner of the woman''s eyes as her voice broke. ".... they killed my sisters. They had done nothing wrong and yet, they mercilessly dragged them and hanged them on this very spotбн I had fostered."

    "Who did this to them?" Aries asked softly.

    "Them," the woman answered vaguely. "All of them tore my flesh, broke my soul, and murdered myбн" she trailed off as she looked up at the women. "... our dreams. I cannot and I will not forgive them бк I am unable to."

    Aries''s eyes softened as she kept her eyes on the woman, witnessing a tear roll down the woman''s cheek. Thetter was beautiful, and despite that, her voice wasced with an unquenchable thirst for vengeance, she sounded kind. She was like a person who was backed in a corner and was trapped within the fire line as it crawled to her feet.

    A person who had no other choice but to fight back to survive.

    This was Maleficent.

    The real one.

    The original.

    Aries nced up at the women on the tree as realization dawned on her.

    "They were your custodian," whispered Aries as she looked back at Maleficent. "The people who held your heart before me."

    "They will do the same to you," Maleficent replied under her breath. "I won''t let it happen again. Not this time. Not again."

    Aries held her breath at the firm resolve shining in the woman''s eyes. "How?"

    "I wille for you." Maleficent nodded reassuringly. "You are me, and I am you. They are you. We will protect you."

    "I am watching." A misced subtle smile then appeared on her beautiful face. "Always."<sub> </sub>

    <strong>****** BREAK ******</strong>

    Aries weakly opened her eyes, catching the familiar ceiling of the empress''s chamber. When she first had those recurring dreams, she would be gasping for air. But over time, she got used to them. The only thing that annoyed her in having these visions was that she could barely recall every little detail.

    Aside from the linden tree, the women hanged upon it, snippets of the woman''s remarks, everything was a blur. Today was different, though. Aries could remember the dream as if it had actually happened.

    A deep exhale slipped past her lips as she closed her eyes. Her head was throbbing. Aries slowly turned her head to the side where Abel sleptst night while reopening her eyes. To her surprise, Abel was lying on his side. His temple was propped against his knuckles, eyes on her.

    "I thought you left already," remarked Aries in relief, pleased to see him early in the morning.

    "How can I when my wife demanded my love?"

    "I''m d you remembered." Arieszily moved to his side, squeezing her body to him as she wrapped her arm around him.

    "Bad dream?" he asked, massaging her hair with his fingertips.

    "Not really."

    "Then, why do youбн look so gloomy the moment you wake up?"

    "Because it was a slightly sad dream." Aries rested her forehead against his chest. Her eyes were partially closed. "I''ve met her."

    "Who''s her?"

    "Maleficent."

    "Ohбн"

    "She looks kind, Abel," she whispered, drawing her head back to look back at him. "It makes me wonder if she is like you."

    "Just like me?" Abel arched a brow. "I don''t think so."

    Aries smiled subtly, assessing his beautiful morning face. Conan told her Abel was the kindest and the most thoughtful back on the maind. But that sounded a little like a lie, since Abel andpassion didn''t suit in one sentence.

    If only Aries hadn''t managed to take a spot in his heart, she wouldn''t imagine Abel having any positive traits.

    The woman in her dreams also looked kind and harmless. Not just by appearance, but Aries''s heart was certain that the woman, Maleficent, used to be someone full of kindness and had so much love to give. But now, in that dream, that woman''s sadness had taken the form of anger.

    <strong>Just like Wrath. </strong>

    "Should we rest today?" she wondered, making him raise his brows. "You said everyone can wait, so a day of rest will be fine, right?"

    "I don''t mind, but are you sure?"

    Aries nodded. "Yes, I am. Let''s stay like this todayбн or should we ride a horse away from the pce? I heard about the festival, and it sounds fun to join our people''s festivities. Let''s have a date."

 Chapter 673 [Bonus Chapter]Make Him Chew His Heart

    "Yes, I am. Let''s stay like this todayбн or should we ride a horse away from the pce? I heard about the festival, and it sounds fun to join our people''s festivities. Let''s have a date."

    "Hmmбн" Abel narrowed his eyes as he pondered solemnly.

    "You don''t want to?" she asked out of in curiosity. "We can stay andze in here if you want."

    "No, not that, darling." Abel shook his head. "I''m simply wondering if today was my birthday."

    Aries burst out inughter. "I don''t even know when''s mine."

    "Darling, you''re really making me happy!" he intoned, pulling her waist closer to him. "I didn''t do anything wrong, did I?"

    "I wouldn''t ask you for a date if you did."

    "But asking me for a date and changing your mind is pure punishment."

    "I''m not that heartless." Aries chuckled, moving up to nudge the apex of her nose against his. "I simply want to have a day of rest with my husband. We''ve been working hard for the past half a year, and I think we should treat ourselves."

    "I also feared your love for me had dwindled." She drew her head back, grinning yfully. "I need to check if you still desire me the same."

    Abel blinked, studying the coquettish smile on her face. His mouth fell open, satisfied, and moved at her voluntary intention for some quality time with him. Who wouldn''t? It had always been Abel who often thought of how to spend more time with her.

    It should be him who needed to check whether she still loved him just as deeply since the roots of his love for her just grew deeper. His eyes softened, tucking a portion of her hair behind her ear.

    "Let''s do whatever you want," he said gently and lovingly. "I''m fine with anythingбн though I fear this will be a tradition from now on."

    Aries chuckled. "It''ll be our tradition. No need to take it to the royal court and make it an officialw."

    "We''ll seeбн" Abel grinned. "If you remember, I won''t. But if you don''t, I need to make it official so you won''t forget."

    "Goodnessбн" Aries melted into his arms with a grin stered on her face. "How can you be soбн adorable?"

    "That''s adorable?"

    "It is."

    "Darling, no wonder you are so drawn to Tony."

    "Sunny is her name, Abel." She rolled her eyes, moving closer to him as if the nonexistent gap between them was still too wide. "Why have you never called her name?"

    "Why would I need to call her with the name everyone calls her?"

    "Are you saying you want to be that special grandpa?" Aries looked up at him, blinking curiously.

    "Yes."

    "But you''re her only grandpa."

    "I am fond of the child, and the only favor I can give her is to not let her name inside this mind, darling." Abel tapped his temple and winked. "This ce right here isn''t a good ce for her."

    "This world isn''t a safe ce for anybody."

    "But at least I am not the person intending to harm her."

    Aries studied his confident expression and let out a shallow breath. "You surprise me in ways I do not expect." She lowered her head until the tip of her nose was touching his neck. "Your way of showing your fondness is truly different."

    "Is that a bad thing?" he inquired, wrapping her slim frame in his secure embrace.<sub> </sub>

    "Not really." She chuckled. "Everyone just has their way of showing their love, and I believe that doesn''t make them less than the other forms of love."

    "Let''s not talk about her--"

    "Should we take her with us today?" Aries suggested, making him frown.

    "We can ask, although I doubt she wille. She''s been busy with Isaiah, and she was frequenting the penitentiary."

    "Ahhбн what is she even doing there? Using prisoners as test subjects?"

    "Sort of." Aries peeked at Abel upon noticing the slight difference in his tone. "Don''t worry about her. I simply introduced her to someone she could use as a test subject. After all, this person was getting immune to all the torture he went through."

    "Ohбн I see." Aries didn''t pry about it anymore, knowing the penitentiary was full of people who hadmitted grave crimes that a death sentence was a kind gesture to grant them. Moreover, she was aware Joaquin was one of the prisoners, and she didn''t want to hear a jack about him.

    "So nice," murmured Abel, rxing his body and feeling her warmth transfer to him.

    "Mhm," she hummed. "This feels nice."

    <strong>****** BREAK ******</strong>

    "No." Sunny blinked adorably as she stood in front of Abel and Aries. She was still in a boy''s attire since Sunny was enjoying acting as the crown prince. "I''m busy."

    "Oh, alright?" Aries pursed her lips into a thin line while Abel smiled from ear to ear.

    "Well, we''re simply being considerate. But if you do not want toe and ruin my date with my wife, it''s fine." Abel''s mood shot up, but the mood around him grew even gloomier.

    "How is this fine!?" Conan''s voice erupted in the air, standing on the side. He had a deep frown stered on his face, and it was obvious what made him upset. "The emperor and empress leaving the imperial pce on a whim! Do you want me to really die of exhaustion?"

    "Oh, Conan, you can also rest today." Abel nted his palm across his chest. "I promise you I wille back and finish today''s and tomorrow''s work like always."

    "Handsome Uncle, you should join me and the huge uncle today. He will teach me how to ride a horse," Sunny invited happily, shifting her twinkling eyes at Isaiah, who was standing near her and beside Leon. Leon, her uncle, had been acting as her knight to protect Sunny бк or those whom she set her eyes on. Meanwhile, Isaiah had been her instructor to hone her skills in what she called alchemy.

    "Ahбн goodness." Conan pinched the bridge of his nose. "There were so many times you can idle, but you just chose to rx when we should be preparing."

    "Rest is a must, Sir Conan бк"

    "You tell me that when you took the time to disguise yourself as a man again?!"

    Aries pursed her lips and nced at Abel for help. Thetter, however, just shrugged.

    "Tony, your grandmama, and I will be making out in the street of Haimirich. I''ll leave you in charge бк what?" Abel raised his brows at Aries when she pped his shoulder.

    "Sunny, we''ll be back tonight, alright? Disregard your grandfather''s nonsense." Aries smiled at the little girl dressed like a boy while Abel held her hand.

    "Have fun!" Sunny waved as Abel took Aries''s hand and walked away. Aries seemed to scold him as they walked away, but it was still clear the two of them were looking forward to this date.

    "Goodnessбн" Conan mumbled, watching Abel and Aries retreat.

    "Handsome uncle, just join us today. After all, it''ll be the same if you stress out now or rx to clear your head. Maximus will stille here, but don''t worry! Sunny will make him chew his heart once hees here!"

    "..."

    Leon, Isaiah, and Conan just stared at the little girl who wore this adorable and bright smile while iming such vicious action. Surely, she was Abel''s kin. No shadow of a doubt.

 Chapter 674 [Bonus Chapter]Petty

    Thest time Abel and Aries went out together just to enjoy the day was already a long time ago. The excitement and delight had pumped blood into their hearts, giving them a whole new level of energy to what today had for them.

    Following Abel''s order, not a single knight followed them so the two could experience a day living a mundane life just like everybody else. No political affairs, no problem, or nothing. Today, it would only be the two of them.

    Abel and Aries rode a steed to the capital, galloping and sometimes, just a leisure ride to enjoy the breeze of freedom the imperial pcecked. When they reached the capital and Abel had tied his steed to a station, both of them, like young lovers, excitedly joined the festivities in the street.

    Althoughбн from another''s perspective, they looked more like two young men who were good friends.

    Aries thought wearing a disguise would be better. It was possible no one would recognize them or they wouldn''t bump into familiar people, but it was better safe than sorry. Hence, she decided to put on a man''s attire and a wig бк the first one Abel bought her. She kept it until now.

    As they stopped at the food stall to try out the buns she had heard about, Aries nced at Abel. Abel''s attempt at disguise was to wear a much simple attire. His green hair wasn''t neatly brushed back like usual but was let down that reached past his brows. His allure looked different, but definitely not any less than when he was wearing an expensive tailored suit.

    "Hmm?" Abel raised his brows as he handed a hot bun to her, which he wrapped with a handkerchief he brought.

    "Nothing." Aries cleared her throat to modte her voice a bit. "Thanks."

    Aries held the bun delicately, as it was rather hot. She nced around, only to see she was the only one holding it with a handkerchief, while the rest were simply using their clothes to let it cool down. When she shifted her attention to Abel, her face contorted.

    "What are you doing бк" she gasped when Abel suddenly smashed the steaming hot bun in his hand.

    "Hahбн" Abel looked surprised. "... so it has beans inside? How interesting."

    "Ah, goodnessбн" Aries pinched the bridge of her nose, and when she retrieved her hand, she saw the other customers cast odd gazes at Abel.

    "Hey!"

    Aries flinched when the owner of the stall yelled at Abel. Thetter didn''t react strongly as he looked back at him, tilting his head to the side.

    "If you don''t like it, then don''t buy it! How can you destroy our precious goods right in front of us, hah!?" the plump seller harrumphed as he pointed at Abel from the other side of the stall. "Aren''t you ashamed some of these people could''ve bought it!?"

    Abel blinked, watching the merchant throw a huge fit. Apparently, destroying the bun without eating it was a sort of disrespect to them. He didn''t know that.

    "Haha! Sorry about that, boss!" Aries chimed in when she noticed the seller was getting more and more furious at Abel''sck of reaction. "My friend here didn''te from the empire and is only here to visit a rtive. So he might be a little ignorant."

    Aries walked closer and shoved Abel slightly to the side. "I''m certain he didn''t mean it like that."

    "Hmph!" the merchant huffed, but slightly calmed down when he heard Aries''s exnation. "Your friend over there should at least learn a thing or two of the ce he was going! He''ll be in trouble if he is that ignorant."

    ''Heheбн he''s actually the one who is trouble,'' was what Aries wanted to tell him, but instead, used the skills she learned in Rikhill to get on the people''s soft spot.

    In the end, Aries ended up bing an acquaintance with the merchant and for them to stop talking, she bought all the buns as a treat to everyone who woulde to the food stall. Fortunately, the merchant was generous enough and put up a carton that had a handwritten sign about the free hot buns for the children.<sub> </sub>

    "How can you smash food in front of the person who made it?" Aries grumbled as she walked beside Abel after dragging him away.

    Abel was wiping his hand with the handkerchief as he replied, "I was curious about what made them so special. I didn''t know there was something inside."

    "Did you expect it to be pure bread?" she asked, and he nodded. Aries opened and closed her mouth before she burst out inughter.

    "Darling, why are youughing?" he inquired with a frown.

    "Nothing бк pfftt!" Aries stopped in her tracks, holding her stomach as she hunched in.

    "This is annoying," he remarked, his expression dying the longer sheughed whilst trying to hold it back and failing miserably. "Darling, you are making me cry."

    "I''m sorry." Aries wiped the corner of her eyes as she straightened her back. "It''s just interesting that you seem to know it all, but you do not have any idea of a simple bun."

    "Because it''s the bun eaten by the poor." His frown deepened when she snapped her tongue at him. "I''m telling the truth. Conan had an expensive taste, and he only choose all exquisite food down to the finely aged wine."

    "Ah, goodness." Aries shook her head while keeping her eyes on him. "I''m learning a lot today."

    He shrugged. "Now I know I should turn around first before I break something in front of any stalls."

    "I want to be angry, but at the same time, I just want to hug you. So cute." Aries raised a hand when he took a step, cing it on his chest to stop him from going closer. "Not here, Abel. We''re both men right now."

    "Sucksбн"

    "Later." His brows rose while her lips stretched yfully, winking at him before skipping her steps away.

    "Sheбн is learning," Abel dawdled, watching her skip away from him. Aries looked very happy and carefree; she looked very different from when they were inside the pce walls.

    He raised his head to see the bright sky and smiled. "Today''s weather is good," he said. "When''s thest time I even cared about the weather?"

    "Darli бк"

    "Daniel!" Aries corrected as her steps skidded to a halt, looking back at him with wide eyes.

    "Rightбн" Abel clicked his tongue as he followed her calmly. "Wait for me, Ariel, Daniel, or whoever you are."

    "Faster, Tiffany." Aries rolled her eyes, returning his sarcasm with a smirk. "What, Betty? Or whoever you are?"

    "Petty, I see." He nodded, and thus, they started calling each other different names throughout their date.

 Chapter 675 Arbie

    Aries didn''t realize there were more things to learn about Abel until today. Since meeting each other, they usually stayed behind closed doors and they бк Aries бк would be too busy scheming.

    Today, having only a n to spend the day as mundane as possible without any other things in mind, Aries could safely say it was one of their best dates. It differed from their usual quality time in the pce, but the experience was just as worth remembering.

    They tried many things, hopping from stalls to stalls, ying with what the festival offered, and eating delicacies they hadn''t had before. Abel wasn''t particrly someone who enjoyed food, but he would often quirk a brow when he found something interesting in the taste.

    He was great with games, though. He seemed to have enjoyed some games despite having a simple thing as a reward. In fact, he enjoyed it so much that he nearly ripped off the merchant for his consecutive wins. The merchant had to chase Abel and Aries away, and the two fled with the small toys he won.

    Surely, time would fly so quickly when one was enjoying it. Before Aries and Abel knew it, the night had already fallen, and the streetlights gave a warm glow in the street. Yet, the festivities continued; it was even livelier with more and more peopleing to the street to enjoy the festival.

    "Wooooah!"

    Aries''s face contorted as a wave of roar from the crowd exploded in the za. She watched Abel as he mmed therge barrel mug down the barrel which was used as the table. Currently, Abel waspeting with people who could drink more booze for ten silver coins.

    "Arbie! Arbie! Woo! Woo!"

    Aries nced around the crowd as they cheered for the undefeated champion for the night. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, setting her eyes on Abel''s opponent. Thetter had passed out on his eighth drink, but Abel was still so sober while smiling at her.

    "I know he''spetitive, but should he be thispetitive?" murmured Aries whilst shaking her head mildly. "That ten silver coins is already a huge amount for others."

    "Any challenger?!" the host of thepetition shouted as Abel stood beside him with his hands on his hips. "Who can take down Arbie who had already enough drinks!?"

    "Actually, it''s Albe бк"

    "Anyone wants to challenge Arbie?!"

    Abel frowned as the host of the event ignored him, continuing to call him Arbie. Even the crowd was now calling him Arbie, just because the man had misheard it the first time.

    "Pffft бк" Aries covered her lips with the back of her fist, watching how her husband''s expression turned even more gloomy.

    As the announcer hyped everyone up, stressing it was easier to take down Abel right now because he had been drinking so much, someone in the crowd raised a hand.

    "Me," came out a man''s calm voice, which somehow sounded so clear despite the roaring crowd.<sub> </sub>

    The host searched for the voice and caught the hand. His eyes lit up, watching a man squeeze through the crowd until he stood in front. He was tall бк almost the same stature as Abel of no less than six feet. His bearing was mild, his shoulder low, and his clothing was in and simple. The man''s long hair that was tied up had a color of tinum, just like Isaiah''s, but a little lighter, but not as light as Sunny''s silver hair.

    The host and everyone, including Aries, assessed the challenger. Silence slowly descended upon them. The man, although tall, looked pale and sickly. If someone poked him lightly, he would fall and copse.

    <strong>''Did he desperately need the ten silver coins?''</strong> Aries wondered, thinking this man was just probably trying his luck to buy medicine.

    After a moment, the host had to clear his throat. It wasn''t like they were selecting the challengers, and this was voluntary.

    "Oh, ho!" the host made a taunting noise that hyped up the crowd. "Another challenger! Arbie, can you still go for another round?"

    Aries and everyone slowly shifted their eyes to Abel. Deep lines appeared in between Aries''s brows as she noticed theck of reaction from Abel. She wouldn''t normally dwell on it, but Abel was just staring at the challenger without any emotion in his eyes. There wasn''t anger, intrigue, or anything of the sort. It was a look Abel would give to people or things he had no interest in.

    <strong>''I know he isn''t interested in many things, but this is the only challenger Abel didn''t look at anything in particr,''</strong> she thought but threw the thought at the back of her head. <strong>''Did he think this challenger wouldn''t be a challenge at all?''</strong>

    "Sure." Abel rocked his head and set his eyes on the host. "Let''s do it."

    "Woooh!"

    Another wave of cheers thundered in the za as the challenger stood opposite Abel. A huge barrel was between them. Before thepetition started, there were a few people who went around while people betted, cing money in the hat.

    Another minute had passed before Abel and the challenger held their barrel mug to their lips. Just like thest time, Abel gulped continuously until he emptied the drink. Meanwhile, his opponent only sipped before wincing and coughing at the strong taste.

    "Booo!!"

    The crowd started booing, making the challenger frown. A thinyer of tears shone in his eyes, looking around the crowd who were booing him. The host didn''t join the crowd, but he was yelling harsh things that were facade as a joke.

    <strong>''I feel bad for him.''</strong> Aries let out a deep exhale, watching the challenger force himself to drink the booze in one go. When thetter mmed the mug barrel on the barrel between them, the crowd cheered for more as if they had just decided to execute the challenger to drink until he drop.

    "Huh?" Aries furrowed her brows as she set her eyes on Abel, only to see him staring at his opponent coldly. The more she stared at Abel, the more she recognized theplex look in his eyes.

    There was a little bit of boredom hidden in those cold, crimson eyes.

 Chapter 676 Abels Dearest Friend

    Unlike what everyone expected, the challenger didn''t drop as early as they thought he would. The challenger kept up with Abel, even though he looked pathetic. He also had garnered a few supporters who betted on him due to the odds. Some believed because Abel had been drinking, he would drop soon.

    "Add more! More! More! More!"

    The crowd started cheering to add more challenges for the contenders. Since Abel had proved he was a heavy drinker and the challenger was keeping up somehow, the crowd thought bringing out bigger mug barrels would be better.

    "Alright! Since these are already your fifth drink, let''s add more challenge for the next round, eh?!" the host excitedly announced, inducing another wave of roars from everyone surrounding them.

    As everyone gleefully cheered, Aries shook her head. She kept her eyes on the poor challenger and sighed. The challenger''s will to win wasmendable, but it was clear he was barely keeping up. Unlike Abel, who was treating this booze as water, his opponent seemed he would throw up at any moment.

    "It''s gettingte..." While the host and the people who were in charge of thepetition brought forthrger barrel mugs, Aries looked up at the sky.

    Abel joined for fun, but the sky had turned darker and darker, and Abel was stillpeting. It was not she wasn''t enjoying herself, but it felt like they had spent so much time in thispetition.

    <strong>''Should I ask him to forfeit now?''</strong> she wondered, setting her eyes back to Abel. Aries scrunched her face, seeing the gigantic barrel mugs that could kill someone if they drank from them in one go. <strong>''Are they executing people or what?''</strong>

    For sure, this would be a winning round. Aries wasn''t being biased, but she instantly thought that size would definitely be something the contender couldn''t finish unscathed. Yet, the crowd''s cheers went to a crescendo.

    They watched Abel and his opponent hold the handle of each barrel mug, raising it to their lips. Abel kept his eyes on the person opposite him over the rim, his Adam''s Apple moving up and down each gulp. Meanwhile, his opponent also drank very slowly, coughing midway, before forcing himself to drink the rest.

    ? When Abel mmed the bottom of the mug barrel on the barrel before him, another wave of roars erupted in the air. He drank the booze in one go while his opponent was coughing in between and sometimes gagging. When everyone thought his opponent wouldn''t finish the mug barrel, they thought wrong. Although it took a bit of time, the challenger was able to finish it; he was coughing so badly though.

    "Woah!!! Look what is happening! Arbie and the challenger just drank the first pint of booze!" the host eximed, matching the energy of the crowd. Another person was refilling the empty barrel mugs while the host continued to hype up the crowd.

    <strong>''Why do I feel like this won''t end?''</strong> wondered Aries, darting her eyes between Abel and his opponent. Her brows furrowed as Abel nced at the booze before lifting his eyes at the man before him.

    "This is boring." Abel broke his silence for the first time, snapping his eyes at the host. "Can we justpete on something else?"

    "Huh?" the host looked at Abel, baffled at his sudden suggestion.

    "I don''t think you have enough supply of booze to see who wins." Abel slowly set his eyes on the person opposite him, pointing a finger at his opponent with his thumb erected like a gun gesture. "Instead of drinking until we drop, why don''t we make it literally? Whoever bleeds first will be the loser, and as a loser, he has to gouge his eyes out?"

    The cheers slowly subsided upon Abel''s suggestion, looking at him wide-eyed. Did he just suggest whoever the loser would have to gouge his eyes out?

    "Ah... ha ha..." the host awkwardlyughed, raising his brows, waiting for Abel to add something as like he was kidding or some sort. But Abel didn''t.

    Abel looked back at the host, cocking his head to the side.<sub> </sub>

    "What do you think? That sounds more fun, right?" Abel added, blinking almost innocently.

    <strong>''My god...'' </strong>Aries pinched the bridge of her nose<strong>. ''Can''t he see his opponent looks like he was already hovering between life and death?!''</strong>

    Much to everyone''s dismay, Abel''s opponent hummed in agreement.

    "I think he is right," said the pale, long-haired man. "Let''s just do that."

    Those who had heard him, including Aries, couldn''t help but cast the man a judgemental look. How could he agree to such a wicked suggestion when he looked like someone who would break with a slight push?

    "See?" Abel cocked his head back, eyes falling on the stupefied host.

    The host opened and closed his mouth, looking around at the dumbfounded crowd.

    "Uh..." the host cleared his throat, walking closer to Abel''s side. "Are you drunk, man? Don''t you know that cannot happen here? We''ll be dead if this reaches the pce!"

    "Oh?"

    The host huffed, looking back at Abel in disappointment. "Just give up if you can''t take it any longer --"

    "It''s not like I can''t take drinking anymore." Abel cut the host off as he set his eyes back at the man across from him. "It''s just that I cannot stand staring at how pathetic and boring this person here is. How can you not change the slightest, Max?"

    Aries furrowed her brows, sensing the menace emanating from Abel''s back. Her heart thudded when the contender replied calmly.

    "How can you be so harsh, my friend?" her eyes shook, moving it to the sickly man opposite Abel. "I''m trying my best here to humor you. This booze is terrible... but I''m notining."

    Aries unconsciously held her breath, watching the man smile warmly. Unlike the intimidating aura Abel was pulling, the other person still looked sickly, but one could tell he wasn''t intimidated slightly.

    "This man..." she whispered, only to trail off when the man turned his head in her direction.

    The man smiled subtly at her until the corner of his eyes creased. "You have an exquisite taste as always, my friend. Your wife is stunning. The Grimsbanne men might be cursed, but they were surely lucky in their wives." His eyes went up and down at Aries before setting his eyes back to Abel.

    "I wonder what her body looks like without all those fabrics?"

 Chapter 677 Do Not Test Me, You.

    "I wonder what her body looks like without all those fabrics?"

    A powerful gust of wind blew past Aries, but she maintained her stern countenance. As the wind subsided, the sound of heavy thuds of bodies falling onto the ground resonated one after another. But the thinning crowd didn''t faze Aries, nor did it surprise Maximus and Abel.

    "Ah!" the host stumbled back until he fell on his buttocks, staring at those giant bloody wings that came out of nowhere.

    "I should''ve asked for your tongue." Abel tilted his head down slightly, eyes up at the man opposite him. "Oh, wellбн your eyes are enough for now."

    The corner of Maximus'' lips curled up, wiping the sh across his cheek upon Abel''s attack using his wings.

    "It''s been a while since I''ve seen those wings of the Grimsbanne," he mused, licking the blood off of his thumb, eyes locked with Abel. "Mathilda never used hers."

    "Considering my sister doesn''t care, I''m not surprised."

    Maximus assessed the smirk on Abel that didn''t reach his menacing eyes. His gaze then lingered on those hauntingly beautiful wings that brought equal pain and strength to their owner.

    "Your Majesty!"

    Aries snapped her eyes from Abel and Maximus, catching the unconscious crowd on the floor. Deep lines appeared in between her brows as she noticed that outside the za, some people were still going through their night like usual.

    "Ah," Aries nced up, narrowing her eyes until a transparent wall appeared before her. "That''s how it is."

    "I mustmend you, my friend." Aries looked back at Maximus when the man pped mildly. "I heard about the warlock you had kept by your side. It''s a surprise that a warlock and a Grimsbanne can maintain a good rapport. He is rather quick to put up this barrier."

    When Aries gazed back at Maximus, she saw him looking around with a smile. During this entire time learning the basics of witchcraft with Isaiah, Aries learned many things from him. Isaiah could not only cast a simple spell or a protective barrier but also a barrier that would more or less make a certain area invisible.

    From the outside, everyone was probably still seeing the same scenario of thepetition. Or maybe it changed. Depends on what Isaiah did to hide them. Isaiah was indeed amazing because of his timely and efficient reaction, even though he was in the pce.

    "I wanted to tour the capital for a while, but when I saw you having the time of your life, I couldn''t help it." Maximus kept his smile, his expression was still pale, and his aura weak. But Aries couldn''t lower her guard, knowing this man had overthrown the throne to im it himself. Not just any throne, but the throne of the king of vampires.

    "You didn''t seem as ted as I am, though." His smile slightly faded as he sighed. "How sad."

    "Your Majesty!"

    Suddenly, Conan''s voice was heard from a distance. When Aries followed his voice, all she saw was the fire in Conan''s eyes, followed by the sound of a sword being unsheathed.

    "Oh, hello there, my dearest brother," greeted Maximus to the furious Conan, who was stomping his way towards them.<sub> </sub>

    The moment Conan wielded his sword, multiple shadows surrounded them, recing the unconscious crowd with their swords up. But that didn''t stop Conan, nor the knights with him who also appeared several seconds after Conan.

    In a blink of an eye, the livelypetition had turned grim with all the original crowd unconscious on the ground as the result of Abel''s explosion of aura.

    Now, the area was just Abel and Maximus standing opposite each other. On one side were people wearing cloaks and unfamiliar uniforms underneath. On the other side were the royal knights led by Conan. Both forces were waiting, observing their opponent, ready to swing their weapons at a drop of a hat.

    If not for Aries being able to control a good fraction of her powers, she wouldn''t be able to handle the suffocating air around. And to think Abel hadn''t pulled an aura at Maximus and vice versa. Even the host, who was able to ovee the first explosion of aura when Abel spread his wings to attack Maximus, fainted.

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    Aries snapped back to the currentpse at the piercing sound of metal hitting each other. When she followed the noise, she caught Conan had leaped forward to Maximus'' side with his sword, but another person blocked his iing attack.

    "Brother, we haven''t seen each other for quite some time, but it seemed you hadn''t changed a bit," humored Maximus before the person who blocked Conan''s attack forced Conan away. "I was expecting you had matured, even for a bit. I mean, I am aware we had our misunderstandings, but how can you greet your sickly brother like that?"

    Maximus then set his eyes back to Abel. "I guess you also hadn''t changed, my friend. You still spoil him so much."

    "You haven''t changed as well, Fourth. You''re still full of your typical baloney." Conan''s voice shook as the fire in his eyes zed even more. However, before he couldunch another attack, Abel''s calm voice pierced the still air.

    "Your eye?" Abel quirked a brow; no one knew if he was even aware of his surroundings or Conan''s presence since his focus was solely on the man opposite him. "You bled first, and since you had entered my empireбн this entrance fee isn''t much, am I correct?"

    "Rightбн" Maximus chuckled. "I almost forgot about that."

    "Your Majesty!" someone from another force suddenly approached Maximus behind.

    Thetter nced over his shoulder and smiled. "It''s alright. Abel is my friend, and we had a bet. If I don''t gouge out my eyes, he would. That''s the bet, and it''s my fault for lowering my guard."

    Maximus then slowly raised his eyes at Aries, offering a kind smile to her. But s, Aries kept her stony front. She felt sorry for him at first, but after learning who this man was, Aries didn''t show the slightest pity.

    "How beautiful, indeed. My only constion here is I was able to see her before losing an eye," Maximus murmured, studying the unfaltering look in her iridescent eyes. "Now I know why you were бк"

    Maximus was abruptly cut off when the sharp tip of Abel''s wings suddenly aimed for his eye. But to Aries''s surprise, he was able to grab it, albeit risked his palm from getting cut.

    "That''s not nice, my friend," said Maximus. "I wasn''t done talking yet."

    "Do not test me, you." Abel blinked ever so tenderly, his expression stern. Perhaps this was the first time Aries had seen Abel not smile in front of his enemy. "Look at her again or speak about her with that filthy mouth of yours, and I''ll end you right here and now. Perhaps a trip to the maind will be a fun exercise afterward."

 Chapter 678 Not Two, But Three.

    "Do not test me, you. Look at her again or speak about her with that filthy mouth of yours, and I''ll end you right here and now. Perhaps a trip to the maind will be a fun exercise afterward."

    It was a pin-drop silence after Abel''s first andst warning. Blood dripped from Maximus'' grip whilst holding the tip of Abel''s wings. Both men stared at each other silently before Maximus let out a sigh, releasing Abel''s wings carefully.

    "Fine." He breathed out, raising his hand in surrender. "It seemed I was ying too much. My apologies."

    "Your Majesty бк!" yelled the same person who was a few steps behind Maximus, but to no avail.

    In a snap of a finger, Maximus took out a dagger from his side, and without a second hesitation, he stabbed his left eye. Aries told herself she didn''t need to pity this man, but watching how this Maximus easily took out his own eyes just because he lost a bet sent a chill down her spine.

    <strong>''He''sбн crazy,''</strong> was what her brain screamed, peeking at Abel, only to see hisck of reaction from it.

    "Are we good now?" asked Maximus, pulling out the small dagger from his left eye socket. He then covered his bleeding eye with his palm. "My dearest friend, does this mean this is the start of the many games we will have to bet on from today onwards?"

    This time, Abel smirked. "This is just the beginning of what you will lose from today onwards," he corrected. "I hope you are prepared."

    "I am. Want to make a bet?" Maximus grinned despite his profusely bleeding left eye. "Instead of an eye, why don''t we stakeбн a hundred of our lives, my friend? It''s easy. We''ll just see whoever gets to her first."

    The moment those words rolled out of his tongue, Aries suddenly froze as she felt her heart thud when a shadow appeared on her side. Her breathing and heart stopped for a moment, time slowing down, as she turned to face the figure beside her.

    All Aries saw was the glint of the person''s red eyes before she unknowingly prepared for pain. Her brain was able to keep up with the turn of events, guessing a dagger was about to plunge into her stomach. This person was fast, and even Abel was a secondte from reacting.

    <strong>Tak!</strong>

    Aries held her breath until her neck turned taut. Her pupils dted and when she blinked for the first time, all she saw was the person falling to his side.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    For a moment, no one reacted, stunned and confused at what had just happened. Everyone''s eyes fell on the person standing beside Aries one second ago. No one noticed it, but a deep exhale slipped past Abel, seeing Aries still standing unscathed.

    "Your Majesty!" this time, Conan, who was being blocked by one of Maximus''s people, leaped from the other side to Aries. His eyes were shaking as he stood beside her, looking at her up and down to see if she had inflicted even the slightest wound.

    "Are youбн" Conan clenched his teeth, watching Aries look back at him with equal horror and shock in her eyes. "... those guysбн!"

    Conan red at Maximus, only to catch the stunned reaction from Abel. The emperor just kept his nk eyes on Aries, unblinking. Meanwhile, Maximus, who was the culprit for this shock, bent down to pick up a small pebble.

    The pebble was covered with blood and a bit of flesh. Maximus saw this thing roll out of his knight''s temple, which had killed an elite pureblooded vampire in one go.

    "Interesting," said Maximus with a smile, raising his eyes back to Abel. "I guess it''s a draw this time."

    Abel snapped his eyes to the currentpse, catching the pebble Maximus threw in his direction.

    "I don''t think the person who threw this came from your side," Maximus pointed out with a warm smile. "I guessed there were more people who want to join this little friendly game of ours."

    Abel kept the pebble in between his thumb and index in silence, rolling it slightly.<sub> </sub>

    "Anyway, since I obviously lost my eye, I will excuse myself first бк"

    "You''re not going anywhere, Fourth!" Conan''s angry voice erupted, making Maximus turn to him with a frown.

    "Conan," called Abel calmly, keeping his eyes on the pebble in between his fingers. "Let them be for now."

    "But бк"

    "I''ll wait for you in my humble home, Maximus." Abel lifted his eyes at Maximus while his wings slowly shrunk until they disappeared from sight. "I''m looking forward to gambling with you."

    Maximus smiled. "The feeling is mutual, my friend."

    With that being said, Maximus nced at his people and without a word from him, the knights under his orders yielded their weapons. Meanwhile, Abel didn''t idle as he sauntered in Aries''s direction.

    "I''mбн" Aries stuttered, looking up at him with trembling lips. "I''m sorry. I wasn''t careful."

    Abel shook his head. "Don''t be sorry, darling. This time, it was I who was at fault."

    "We''re just letting them go, just like that?" Conan asked under his breath, clenching his fist to his side.

    "Yes." Abel''s answer was quick, ncing over his shoulder to peek at Maximus'' retreating figure. "Not here, Conan."

    Conan held Abel''s eyes with clenched teeth before his shoulders gradually rxed.

    "Understood, Your Majesty." Conan hung his head low, understanding that Abel had thought this area would be a bloodbath. Fighting here right now would not only hurt them but also the unsuspecting people around.

    "Clean this up. Isaiah is close." Abel then faced Aries with thousand of unspoken emotions he couldn''t even identify. His jaw tightened the longer he stared at her, keeping this seed of fire growing within his heart.

    "I''m fine, Abel." Aries reached for his hand, maintaining eye contact with him. "I''m safe."

    "I know you are," he whispered. "Because if you weren''t, they wouldn''t be walking away here."

    She knew that, but she appreciated Abel chose the lives of their subjects over his own displeasure at Maximus''s insolence.

    Aries squeezed his hand mildly. "Let''s go home, love. This is the first and thest." She forced a smile on her face, nodding at him reassuringly.

    Abel didn''t show any sign of agreeing or disagreeing, lifting his eyes to gaze in a particr direction.

    "A skull," he whispered, making her brows raise.

    "Hmm?"

    "I saw a skull glint a kilometer away," he exined, looking back at her. "Don''t mind me. Let''s go, darling."

 Chapter 679 Is He A Friend? Or A Foe?

    <strong>Fear. </strong>

    A word so alien for Abel for a very long time. When he first came to know the fear of loss, he named it his proof of love for Aries, which she could depend on. Loving Aries was so easy, but Love itself was tough. Yet, he told himself he was tough enough.

    Therefore, this fear was just one of his many demons to y. Abel could safely say he had broken free from that weaponized cage, only for another fear to resurface unannounced and gnarly. This time, much more dreadful than those crazy-making circling anxiety.

    "Your Majesty, what should we do with him?" Conan inquired, staring at Abel, who was sitting on the armchair inside the emperor''s chambers.

    Abel had been silent since parting with Aries after dropping her in the Rose Pce. And he had been staring at that pebble, rolling it mildly in between his thumb and index, his arm propped against the armrest.

    "He dared raised a sword against the empress. Letting him walk away after that insolence is unforgivable." Conan seethed as his fist trembled, recalling how his brother''s knight attacked Aries. His anger, however, slowly subsided when a sudden thought crossed his head.

    <strong>Who killed that man?</strong>

    "Why is Tony taking so long?" Abel inquired calmly, keeping his eyes on the pebble in his hand.

    "She would be here with the grand duke any moment."

    "I see."

    "Your Majesty, now that I think about it, who killed that person?" Conan raised the question after reaching a dead end and couldn''t make a guess. His question stopped Abel from rolling the pebble.

    "That knightбн is a pureblooded vampire. To kill him usingбн" he trailed off as his eyes fell on the pebble in Abel''s fingers. "... to kill him using that, it''s rming. Maximus and his small militia are already troublesome enough. Dealing with another crazy is thest thing we need right now."

    <strong>Abel knew that. </strong>

    For someone to take down a pureblooded vampire with just a pebble was amazing and rming; it depends on which perspective they were looking on. In this matter, it was rming for them since they had so many things to lose.

    Things and people Abel couldn''t afford to lose.

    "Once Maximus entered the pce, we''ll shut it." Abel slowly lifted his eyes to Conan. "No one will ever leave this ce until one of us dies."

    Conan''s jaw tightened, knowing Abel had always nned to use the imperial pce as the battlefield, lest a fight breaks out.

    "And about this unknown person or force?" he inquired, only to hear Abel''s correction.

    "Just a person," said Abel. "It''s not a group. Just one."

    "Is he a friend?"<sub> </sub>

    <strong>Knock Knock!</strong>

    "Your Majesty, I had arrived with your son." Suddenly, Isaiah''s voice was heard from the other side of the door. He waited for a moment, and despite not hearing a word inside, he pushed the door open.

    Entering the emperor''s chamber was Isaiah with Sunny on his side and Leon on his back. Sunny greeted a lively, "grandpa!" as she skipped her steps inside, jumping on the divan while hugging her stuffed bunny Mister Moon.

    "We rushed here the moment we heard your call," Isaiah spoke, stopping near where Conan was sitting. "And I also heard that you let Maximus off, Your Majesty."

    Leon, Sunny''s uncle, stopped near Isaiah. His expression grim, eyes fixed on Abel.

    "I smelled the blood of a La Crox reek in the capital," he remarked through his gritted teeth. "The La Crox will never support a traitor of the sovereign."

    "You''ve been away from the maind, Leon La Crox." Abel leaned back, resting his leg over the other.

    "And even if I am away from that ce for a decade, there is no way our n will pledge to a man who got the throne by force," Leon argued, only showing emotion now even after spending the past month as part of the background in this ce. "Our family had been loyal to the king all this time, and our n leader had sworn that once the king enters an eternal slumber, he and every n leader who had supported the king would join him."

    "Well, surprise, surprise. It seemed all those n leaders are not as loyal as you think they were." Conan snorted. It wouldn''t surprise him if those people who had supported the king, his father, would turn their backs at times of weakness.

    "No." Leon adamantly refused to ept Conan''s ridicule. "I don''t think that''s what happened."

    "Of course, that''s not what happened." Sunny blinked innocently, watching Abel, Leon, Conan, and Isaiah turn their attention to her. "When the royal family fell, all the n leaders died or were forced to enter the eternal slumber, which was the same thing. Many things changed, Uncle Leon."

    Her exnation sounded like the p of thunder in Leon''s ears. He had been with her all these months, but never once did Sunny mention anything about this. She only told them about the fire in the pce and how she saved the king in the nick of time. There were no other details involved, and they didn''t ask because they thought that was all she knew.

    "When Tilly left the maind, things just escted because the king had been nagging her to be his heir," she continued, and Leon already knew it, but not the other three men with her. "I think the current king used Tilly and Uncle Leon''s absence to execute his ns to overthrow the throne."

    Leon balled his hands into a fist as his eyes shook. "Sunny, why are you just saying this now?"

    "Uncle Leon didn''t ask, and even if you knew about this earlier, there''s nothing you can do." Sunny shrugged and then faced Abel with her adorable countenance. "I don''t like the current king, and I think he doesn''t like Sunny because I kept sending his men''s heads back to him over the past few months. He''ll kill Sunny."

    Abel just stared at his adorable granddaughter, who didn''t even have any emotions despite knowing her ''dilemma.'' It only made sense, since Abel had felt some uninvited guests some days, only for them to disappear. He didn''t think Sunny was the reason for their infiltration to fail over and over.

    "I understand where your anger ising from, Leon La Crox," Abel spoke leisurely, casting Leon a cursory look. "But Tony is right. There''s nothing much you can do, but the enemy is marching here, so be patient. You can settle the scoreter."

    "Now, onto a much important matter. Someone else killed that La Crox after attacking the empress." His eyes then fell back on Sunny. "Tony, you mentioned back then, you know someone who wields a spear, which he called Maleficent."

    "Mhm." Sunny nodded while Leon furrowed his brows, knowing all the members of the Grimsbanne and those who lived on the maind with them. "Mister Fabian is his name. His weapon hides in a form of a skull ring, and I think it''s really cool how he rubs it with his thumb before wielding it!"

 Chapter 680 Soulmates

    "Mister Fabian is his name. His weapon hides in a form of a skull ring, and I think it''s really cool how he rubs it with his thumb before wielding it!"

    "A skull ring, huh?" Abel repeated with a delicately arched brow, recalling the skull he had glimpsed before leaving the za.

    "Mhm! It then turns into a ck spear that can y vampires. If you get grazed by it, the wound will never heal. Mister Fabian is really cool, although people say his smile is annoying for no reason," Sunny added, only for Leon to chime in.

    "That person has questionable morals," Leon stressed, very much aware of Sunny''s fondness for the aforementioned butler. Hence, she was biased. "Your Majesty, as someone who personally knew your kin and their people, I had met this person a few times. There''s only one I can tell you about him, and that is he only listens to two people. Sunny''s parents."

    "Mister Fabian listens to Sunny." Sunny frowned, knowing their family butler was also very fond of her. "Why are you asking, Grandpa? Did Mister Fabiane to fetch Sunny?"

    "I doubt," Conan answered for Abel, sporting a t expression. "I don''t trust this person. Although he saved Her Majesty, his intention is still questionable why he hadn''t shown up in front of you until now."

    Sunny''s frown deepened, leaning back and hugging her toy bunny closer.

    "He won''t harm Sunny," Leon remarked with conviction. "I''m certain of that."

    "Heбн is revolting," Abel chimed in after a long silence, tossing the pebble to Sunny, whichnded on her side. "The person who threw this that killed a La Crox turns my stomach."

    Sunny picked up the pebble with her cute and chubby fingers, cocking her head to the side. "Sunny doesn''t understand."

    "Am Iбн the only one who felt repelled by it?" Abel narrowed his eyes, studying Sunny''s innocent countenance, and then Leon. Seeing that Leon bore confusion in his eyes, Abel shifted his attention to Conan and then to Isaiah.

    None of them seemed to have shared the same sentiment as Abel.

    "So, it is just me, huh?" Abel closed his eyes briefly while scratching his brow with his index. "Will youбн find this person?"

    "Your Majesty, shouldn''t we prioritize the matter regarding Maximus IV?" this time, Isaiah couldn''t stay silent anymore.

    "It''s rare for me to agree with him, but the grand duke has a point, Your Majesty." Conan backed him up with a nod. "In a few days, Maximus will enter the imperial pce. But since we know he is already in the capital, we need to watch all his movements at all times."

    "Iбн agree with them," Leon also voiced his thoughts. "Mister Fabian is a strange person, but he might have had a reason for not showing up. He won''t cause trouble."

    "You better learn how to lie better, Leon." Abel pointed out, making the man clear his throat.

    "He is a person who can cause trouble, but I think he respects you enough as his master''s uncle to cut you some ck."

    "I think this respect only goes as far as not showing up in front of me," Abel argued calmly but adamantly. "Dealing with the current sovereign in the maind is necessary. However, I need to confirm if I can stand my wife''s presence or if she can stand in front of me without killing me once she awakened her witch."

    His eyes glinted menacingly, moving his gaze at Sunny before his gaze fell on that pebble. He had been holding it until now to get used to the repugnant lingering scent left by the person who threw it.<sub> </sub>

    "If my guess is correctбн I don''t think Aries should awaken her witch," he added under his breath. "I might kill herбн or she might kill."

    <strong>*********************************** BREAK ******************************************</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    The wind blew past Aries, causing the hemline of her nightdress and hair to flow back beautifully. She clutched the shawl to her chest, eyes on the towering figure''s back, who was standing not far away from her vantage point in the Rose Garden.

    "Whoбн are you?" Aries asked after approaching the person, watching the person slowly turn around. Thetter was wearing a cloak with a hood over the head, and with only the moon as their source of light, she couldn''t see the person''s face clearly.

    Her eyes fell on the freshly plucked flower in the person''s delicate and slender hand, but her focus wasn''t on the flower but on the skull ring on his index finger.

    "Iбн" a chilling baritone voice of a man came from his lips. "... have the same question, mydy. Who are you?"

    Aries slowly raised her head, and after a moment, her eyes adjusted to the darkness. Looking back at her were a pair of thin eyes that bore no confusion, no intrigue, or anything negative or positive at all. If anything, his eyes told herбн he was contemting.

    "I''m бк" Aries pursed her lips and gulped, realizing there was no reason to introduce herself. But s, she was unable to look away from him.

    The person''s thin eyes narrowed even more when the corner of his lips curled up slightly.

    "A vindictive person once told me she wished for me to meet someone who will make me question myself just because I told her love takes away the proper functionality of the brain," the man spoke calmly and cooly, while Aries could only look at him with her lips slightly parted. "Did you know what I told her in response?"

    "Whatбн what did you tell her?"

    "That I''d end this person if I evere across one."

    Her lips quivered as she breathed out, "did you meet this person already?"

    "Mhm."

    "Will you kill her?"

    "Will you allow me..?" The man smiled, offering the flower to her. Aries only nced at it, and a part of her wanted to ept it, but she didn''t. She pursed her lips and clenched her hand, looking up at him again.

    He added, "to kill... my soulmate?"

 Chapter 681 Storm In The Quiet

    "Will you allow me to kill you?"

    Aries had always felt she was being watched. It all started when she became the empress of the Haimirich Empire. At first, she told herself it was normal since the position she took was the highest seat that was equal to the emperor. But as time goes by, she had always felt a particr gaze was watching her every move.

    No. It wasn''t the type that felt leery or unsafe. Aries couldn''t exactly describe it until now that she stood before this man. It was a feeling of security only felt when someone knew their guardian was just around the corner.

    Her lips quivered, unable to look away at those smiling eyes, watching his hands approach her that appeared to be bigger than they should be.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    ? <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>GASP!</strong>

    Aries snapped her eyes open, gasping for air, heart thudding aggressively against her chest. Her eyes shook, looking up in a panic, only to realize she was standing under the linden tree with eleven women hanged upon it.

    The sound of chimes caressed her ears, and for some reason, her heart felt at ease. It wasn''t real, she thought. And that realization somehow felt like an entire pipe was pulled out of her throat. Aries kept her eyes up, closing them as she breathed out a sigh of relief.

    But when she reopened her eyes, she froze.

    From the corner of her eyes, she caught a man standing where Maleficent originally stood. Aries slowly turned her head, holding her breath until her neck turned taut. Her eyes slowly dted as they shook, catching the same man before this dream, inside this dream, or what she called vision.

    The moment her eyesnded on him, Maleficent''s remarks, "I''m always watching," suddenly rang in her head.

    "Whoбн are you?" Aries blurted out airily, but the man said nothing. He just stood there, staring at the women on the hangman''s tree. When his lips parted, Aries slightly flinched.

    "The monster in your bed... in your head." His voice was calm, but it was very clear. "It''s interesting."

    The man then blinked ever so tenderly, turning his head to face her. This time, his face was very clear. He had a slim face with his facial features all sharp. However, his expression wasn''t all that sharp, nor was it gentle. He was smiling, but at the same time, it made her skin crawl.

    Myriads of questions hovered over her head, wondering how he got into this dream as well. But every time her lips parted, her tongue would just keep rolling back. In the end, Aries could only stare at him, unable to look away or take a step back.

    "Can you feel it?" he asked, moving his feet until he was facing her squarely. "The fury closing in."

    "No," she whispered, watching him raise his hand with his palm facing her. "What?"

    "Come."

    Her brows rose, darting her eyes between his palm and his squinting eyes. "Come?"

    "Mhm. To me." He wiggled his fingers, hinting her toe to put her hand on his palm. "I''ll use you well and treat you nicely."<sub> </sub>

    The lightness in his voice sounded out of ce, and she could tell he was asking as if she was an item, not a person. Yet, Aries didn''t feel irked by it; though she didn''t like it either.

    "You don''t want to?" he tilted his head to the side but kept his palm up.

    "No." Aries shook her head mildly. "It''s not that."

    He blinked, waiting for her to exin her answer.

    "What will happen?" she asked, keeping her gaze in his eyes.

    "Who knows?" his lips stretched. "I won''t harm you, though."

    Aries assessed his refined face in silence, watching how his squinting eyes, which just looked like lines, crack open slightly. He really had naturally thin eyes, but the sharpest she had seen. It didn''t look like those pairs of crimson Abel had where one would instantly feel intimidated, but something that could make someone wonder.

    She couldn''t read him, and considering Aries was good at reading people, it wasmendable she couldn''t read through him. A big part of her told her he was thest person who would harm her, though. Aries didn''t know the reason she felt this way toward him; it wasn''t romantic, for sure, but she was drawn to him the moment sheid her eyes on him.

    "Do Iбн own you?" she blurted out under her breath. "Or was it the other way around?"

    "I have the same question, mydy." He smiled again. "Should we test it?"

    The man tipped his head to his open palm between them, making her eyes fall on it again. Her breathing slowed down, lifting her gaze back to meet his eyes. This time, she didn''t speak as she hesitatingly raised her hand.

    Her trembling palm slowly closed in until she was touching him. Aries jolted slightly but felt instantly at ease when nothing happened. She kept her eyes on their palms that were touching each other, peeking at him when he let out a weak chuckle.

    "How interesting," he mused under his breath, snapping his eyes at her tenderly. "Right?"

    <strong>Right?</strong> Her brows furrowed, but before she could even wonder what he was talking about, she moved her eyes to their hands. He slowly and carefully slid his fingers to the side of each of her fingers, slipping his fingers in between the gaps of her fingers as he slowly held her hand.

    Aries didn''t feel the need to retrieve her hand, and even if she wanted to, she knew his grip, although loose, she wouldn''t be able to break away. Deep lines resurfaced in between her brows and forehead, seeing the dark miste out from the very tip of her fingers.

    "I guess it varies of who wants to own who," said the man in an amused and triumphant tone. "Or perhaps it is just a habit we had grown used to."

    Aries gazed back at him as her body slowly felt lighter and lighter as the dark mist slowly shrouded the two of them.

    "Abel," she whispered out of habit whenever she felt helpless in any situation. But this time, she knew she wasn''t in danger, but her thinning resistance forced that call. "Help."

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>GASP!</strong>

 Chapter 682 The Monster Under Her Bed

    <strong>GASP!</strong>

    Aries gasped for air as she snapped her eyes open. Her eyes shook until she recognized the face and glowing crimson eyes hovering over her.

    "Abel," she called out in relief, and without thinking twice, stretched her arms to hug his neck.

    Aries clutched his back, burying her face in his shoulder. Her entire body was trembling, and for obvious reasons, she felt relieved she could feel her body. For a moment, she felt like she had lost it. When hisrge palm gently stroked her back, calmness slowly surged into her heart.

    <strong>She was back, </strong>was what came into her head. And as if he could read her mind, Abel whispered, "you''re back."

    "Mhm." Her voice sounded muffled, holding him even tighter. "I am."

    Abel nced at her, pushing his body away from the bed until they were sitting up. Aries still clung to him like a scared child after a bad dream. He knew it was bad, although he didn''t see her nightmare. It had been a while since she was caught in a bad dream.

    Aries used to have nightmares every single night when she stepped foot in the Haimirich Empire, but those had slowly disappeared. Only recently did she start getting these nightmares, which she called visions. Aries had been very vocal about those recurring visions of the linden tree and women hanged on it.

    But Aries had taken these visions very well and didn''t affect her the slightest. Although it made her space out from time to time. Only tonight did she act so scared, but Abel could understand. After all, Abel felt like if he didn''t wake her up, she would disappear forever.

    That scared the hell out of him. To have her dreams be his nightmare and reality.

    "Calm now?" he asked after minutes of stroking her back, peeking down at her.

    "No. Don''t go," came out her muffled voice, tightening her embrace on him. Her body had already stopped shaking, but she wouldn''t let him go.

    "I won''t, darling." Abel let out a shallow breath, resting the side of his head against hers. "There''s no way I would let go."

    Silence once again descended onto their shoulders, spreading across the imperial pce. Abel patted her back with his fingers, watching her breathing carefully. Both of them didn''t know how much time had passed since she woke up in the middle of the night, but Aries eventually calmed down and released him.

    Lifting her face to meet his, all she saw was the slight smile Abel offered her.

    "Water?" he asked, brushing her cheek with his thumb.

    "Mhm." Aries nodded, but just as he moved, she clutched his hand.

    He looked back at her with raised brows. "I''m not going anywhere," he remarked, pointing at the bedside table. "The ss is just over there."

    Aries slowly followed where he was pointing and gulped, realizing it was her hobby to keep a ss of water with her. Her grip on his hand loosened while he bent over, sprawling his arms to get the ss of water.

    Abel took out the lid of the ss, handing it to her. When Aries woke up, she was breaking out in sweats. Hence, watching her drink it in one go was understandable.

    "Thanks," she whispered, giving the ss back to him.

    "Anything for you." Abel ced the lid back on and put the ss on the nightstand. "Are you fine now, darling?"

    Aries pursed her lips and nodded. "A bit, yes."<sub> </sub>

    She kept her eyes on him before she lowered her gaze. Both didn''t know what to say at the moment. The bad dream бк that nightmare she had left this lingering terror in her heart. It felt like she had fallen into a world she could not control, gripping her bones, unwilling to let her go.

    Just the thought of it made her heart race and break out in cold sweats.

    "His voiceбн" she whispered, lifting her eyes back to Abel. "... I can feel it down in my soul."

    <strong>A man?</strong>

    Abel''s eyelids drooped, assessing the fear dominating her countenance. But s, deep in his heart, he wished to not know her right this second. Because he knew his wife from inside and out that he recognized the source of her fear didn''te from someone who was afraid to get hurt.

    It was the opposite.

    It was as though she feared she was the person who would hurt people бк Abel, in particr. The fear of being conscious of not entirely resenting the nightmare she had.

    "I''m scared, Abel," Aries continued. "I''m terrified."

    <strong>The feeling was mutual.</strong>

    Abel raised a hand and cupped her jaw, brushing her cheek with his thumb.

    "What should I say this second?" he wondered. "How do I make you feel better?"

    If Abel didn''t know, how would she know? After all, making her feel better was his metier. And she was also good at uplifting his mood. But for themselves? They had no idea. If only they knew, they wouldn''t need each other to fix each other''s broken pieces.

    Aries held his hand that was cupping her jaw, pressing it on her cheek to feel the warmth of his palm.

    "Let''s stay like this," she whispered while looking into his eyes. "Don''t let me go tonight, Abel."

    "Who said I will?"

    Abel sprawled his arm around her and pulled her into his embrace, feeling the material of her nightdress.

    For some reason, the night was eerily silent. Yet everyone was aware of the brewing tension in the empire, like frogs trapped in the waters wondering whether to jump out of it now or wait for it to reach its boiling point.

    <strong>*********************************** BREAK ******************************************</strong>

    Meanwhile, in one of the inns on the outskirt of the capital, a man sat near the window where the moon was filtering through the ss. His leg was resting over the other, his elbow propped against the armrest, with his jaw resting on his knuckles.

    He was staring down at his other hand. In between his thumb and index was a ring with a skull filigree. He kept his attention on it for a moment before shifting his eyes to the window.

    "What a dilemma?," mumbled the man. "This is not the role I expect in this story бк I''ll be damned."

 Chapter 683 Ruby

    The Haimirich Empire hadn''t mourned for many years, as it had always been sess after sess. But thest three days had been especially quiet, not just in the imperial pce but in the street of the capital.

    Aries stood in front of the full body mirror, staring at herself after she got ready for her ns for the day.

    "Your Majesty." Aries snapped her eyes ever so tenderly, ncing over her shoulder to where Suzanne stood. "Everyone is waiting."

    "Everyone can wait." Aries faced herself in the mirror again, taking a deep yet careful breath. "These jewelries were too extravagant. Get me a new one."

    Suzanne pressed her lips into a thin line before she bowed. "Yes, my queen."

    Suzanne carefully left Aries to get the empress jewelry box to change the ones she was wearing for the third time. She knew Aries was stalling, but she didn''t point it out. When she returned with the box in her hand, Aries was still standing in the same position, staring at herself longer than before.

    "Should I let my original hair color back?" asked Aries out of nowhere, making Suzanne''s steps slow down until thetter was standing on the empress''s side. "I''ve been dying my hair blonde, but I don''t see the need for it anymore."

    "Everything Your Majesty does and wear bes a fashion trend," Suzanne remarked softly. "I am certain changing your hair color to its original color will do nothing to your reputation."

    Aries rocked her head. "I don''t think it will. After all, everyone in the empire would be a prisoner today."

    Suzanne didn''t respond anymore, studying Aries''s side profile. Ever since Aries ascended the throne, she had been careful and distant. However, privately, there were remnants of that woman Suzanne first met: nonchnt, caring, and curious. Only recently did Suzanne notice the subtle changes in Aries.

    "How was Violet?" Aries asked as she chose which jewelry would suit her outfit today.

    "She is doing well, Your Majesty. Sir Roman had visited her two days ago. I''m certain he had already secured her and her children''s safety."

    "Those two were always so frustrating."

    This time, Suzanne let out a weak chuckle. "The Baroness was in no hurry."

    "Every passing day, Violet is growing older. Roman does not."

    "There were children involved, Your Majesty," said Suzanne, knowing Aries was simply indulging in this small talk to forget about the bigger problems for a moment. "Therefore, the Baroness and Sir Knight were taking their time in courtship."

    Aries remained silent, picking up a ring that had a ruby stone.

    "This looks better," she said, testing the ring she hadn''t worn before.

    "It''s beautiful, mydy." Suzanne smiled. "I heard His Majesty had gathered all skilled jewelers across the empire to make it."

    "It''s from Abel?" Aries lifted her brows, peeking at Suzanne.

    "Yes, Your Majesty. It came along with all the gifts you received from him during the wedding."

    "Hahбн" she rocked her head, raising her hand, staring at the ring on her ring finger. "It''s beautiful, indeed."

    "In Topia and Chivisea, warriors adorned their armor with rubies for protection. Some royals used it to protect themselves from misfortune and illnesses," Suzanne shared while Aries lifted her hands higher, staring at the twinkle of the red stone. "I think Your Majesty should wear it."<sub> </sub>

    The side of Aries''s lips curled up. "Find me a ne and earrings that had the same color."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Suzanne immediately searched for the jewelry that matches the ring. It didn''t take long for her to find them, setting them aside, before assisting Aries to take off the pieces of jewelry the empress was already wearing.

    When Suzanne was done, Aries stared at herself in the mirror, caressing the gold-ted cor ne that had little pieces of rubies on it.

    "Isn''t it too grand?" Aries inquired, while Suzanne shook her head.

    "Grand is only suited for the empress."

    "Should I wear a bigger one, then?"

    "Whatever you please, Your Majesty. Everyone can wait until you''re ready."

    "Then let''s test out everything."

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    With that being said, Suzanne had to take off Aries''s jewelry and rece them with another set. They did it over and over. Aries tested everything, taking her precious time as if she didn''t have a scheduled appointment to wee the king of the maind.

    Aries knew she waste, but no one from the emperor''s pce came to her to tell her about it. In fact, not a single soul went to remind her of her tardiness.

    "This looks simple," Aries mused as she gazed at the set of jewelry she was currently wearing. "Simple yet elegant. I like it."

    Suzanne just smile. That set was what Aries originally wore before she tested the ruby ring. The only piece that Aries didn''t take off was the ruby ring.

    "Do you think the weing ceremony is over?" asked Aries, snapping her eyes back at Suzanne.

    "Considering they probably waited for your arrival, the ceremony was probably dyed."

    "Then should we go through this again?"

    "Why don''t I make you some calming tea, Your Majesty?" Suzanne smiled subtly, knowing Aries was simply exhausting herself to have an excuse.

    Not showing up at the arrival of Maximus was a big gesture of the empress. It only meant she disliked this guest, and so, those who were supporters of the queen would be wary of the empire''s distinguished guest.

    "That would be nice," said Aries, making Suzanne''s smile stretch just a little bit.

    With that being said, Suzanne assisted Aries to the armchair near the window before she left to prepare the empress some tea and snacks. When Suzanne left Aries alone, she turned her head to the window, letting silence reign in the chamber.

    "What a bother." Her soft voice pierced the still air, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly. "Even from this distance, I can feel the tension in the great hall. I hope my husband forgives me for not being there to listen to his friend''s nonsense."

    Aries propped her elbow against the armrest, resting her jaw on her knuckles. "I wonderбн where is that man who imed to be my soulmate? Should I force him toe to me?"

 Chapter 684 I Hope He Doesnt Disappoint

    That night when Aries had that nightmare of the man with a skull ring, the seed of desire to meet this man was nted into her heart and it consistently grew over the past three days. Abel used to enter her dreams. Hence, she started calling them visions, since he could no longer peek even if he tried.

    But that man with a skull ring could enter her dreams and interact with her. Although that dream didn''t happen anymore, it only amplified her desire for an answer.

    Who was he?

    What did he want from her?

    What were they?

    And why does this faint servitude in her heart linger at the sight of him?

    There were myriads of other questions, and what Abel told her that night bothered her about the pebble.

    "A faint aura of Maleficentбн" whispered Aries in a haze. "... he can''t stand it."

    "Your Majesty?" Suzanne''s voice snapped Aries back from her daze while she served the tea. "Are you alright, Your Majesty?"

    "Mhm." Aries bent over to pick up the teacup. "Have you heard about the search?"

    Suzanne straightened her back as she held the tray. "Some knights were found dead with carvings on their flesh that says, no. But others had letters that say otherwise. I heard the knights under the emperor deemed this person as sick in the head. Hence, a danger to society."

    "So they hadn''t found this man?" Aries inquired without any reaction from the details.

    "Apparently, they hadn''t." Suzanne shook her head. "Because of the current state of affairs and the visit of the empire''s esteemed guest, the emperor''s people couldn''t employ everyone to search for this man."

    "And Marcia Graves?"

    "The witches, on the other hand, were keeping track of his trails. She sent a word she might catch up to this man in no time."

    "Tell her to stop."

    "Your Majesty?"

    Aries took a sip elegantly, licking her lips as she ced the teacup back on the saucer.

    "I said, send a word to the witches and tell them to stop following his trails at once," repeated Aries firmly, raising her gaze at Suzanne. "There''s no need for that."

    "But Your Majesty, letting this man on the loose is dangerous."

    "His Majesty probably realized taunting this man isn''t the proper thing to do," Aries argued, setting her eyes back to the window. "There were already casualties since the order came out. Even if the numbers were little, those are still lives lost. Those women had been through a lot as well. It''ll be a shame for them to meet their end before Marcia gets ordained."

    Aries paused as her eyes narrowed. "He wille if I need him."

    Suzanne''s lips parted, but she ended up shutting them again. She lowered her head slightly.

    "As you wish, Your Majesty," she said before serving the hors d''oeuvres for Aries to enjoy.

    "Take a seat once you''re done." Aries looked back at her handmaiden. "It will be nice to spend an afternoon tea with a friend."<sub> </sub>

    Suzanne looked around, even though she knew it was just the two of them. When she gazed back at Aries, she offered the empress an amicable smile.

    "How can I refuse?" her answer put a smile on Aries, sitting on the armchair across from the empress. "It would be nice if you can invite Sybil someday."

    "How about Veronika?"

    "I do not want her gloating in front of me."

    Aries chuckled. "Oh, you. I think you get along well with her more than you get along with me."

    "I know her. She thinks being the crown princess and the first in line to the throne is better than being the empress''s handmaiden."

    "Wasn''t it, though?"

    "Not even close." Suzaneughed as she poured herself a cup of tea. "You put her in that seat and you can take it away from her anytime. I don''t think that will ever leave her mind."

    "Fearбн had always been the perfect foundation for betrayals."

    "Fear had always been the ingredient for servitude as well," Suzanne argued. "Being by your side and watching your back where your shadows stretch is a better position to be in. In that angle, I can think I am part of your sess as your shadow than standing on the opposite where you look down on me while everyone else bows before your greatness."

    "You truly have an interesting take on everything, Suzanne."

    "I''m still learning from you."

    "I don''t think you''re looking up to a good role model." Aries humored while the teacup hovered over her curled lips. "Following in my footsteps will lead you to hell."

    "I would worry about the destination in the afterlife."

    Another chuckle slipped past Aries''s lips after she sipped from the teacup. "Oh, Suzanne. Surely, my decision is not terrible. I might''ve missed weing the empire''s esteemed guest, but it''s worth missing for this."

    "No one will be surprised бк even this esteemed guest. I heard he had been taunting His Majesty."

    "Taunting Abel is what Abel enjoys." Aries corrected. "But not me."

    "Did he insult you?"

    "Not only did he insult me by speaking scious remarks, but also nted a seed of fear in my husband''s heart." A menacing glint flickered across her eyes. "I hold grudges very well."

    "I hope he is prepared then."

    Aries arched her brow as she set her eyes back on Suzanne. "He is prepared, Suzane. But I don''t think he has any idea that no amount of preparation can make him ready for what ising for him."

    "Arrogant men." Suzanne chuckled, confident that Aries had something in mind. No one had gotten away from Aries''s clutches once she set her traps. No one would even know there were trapsid until they fell into them.

    "Sir Conanбн told me that his brother was the personification of deception." Aries slowly looked away, setting her eyes to the window. The side of her lips curled up as her eyes narrowed until they were partially closed. But s, that wasn''t enough to hide the contempt in them.

    "I hope he doesn''t disappoint me, a woman who had been deceiving the entire world бк even herself."

 Chapter 685 The Stage Is Set

    For the first three days since Maximus'' arrival, Abel had to apany him for formality. It was a diplomatic visit and everything was done formally and in ordance with the Haimirichw. Even so, the people of the pce tweaked some practices that might offend the esteemed guest.

    The only person who wasn''t affected by these changes or the busy schedules of everyone was the empress.

    "I heard some whisperings regarding the shut Rose Pce," Suzanne reported to Aries who was enjoying her morning tea in the empress''s chancery. "Your absence had made an impact on this visit, Your Majesty. Prolonging it might put you in a terrible light, though."

    Aries carefully ced the teacup back on the saucer. "They did most of the formal meetings in the past three days," she crooned, leaning back ever so slowly, eyes on Suzanne. "I guess I do not have to deal with such a confounded nuisance."

    "Open the Rose Pce."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Suzanne bowed with her hands ced meticulously on her stomach.

    Aries watched Suzanne leave the chancery silently, and when the door opened, she caught Gustav offering the empress''sdy-in-waiting a slight bow. Gustav went in while Suzanne went out to execute the order. Except for these two, no one had interacted with Aries since Maximus''s arrival.

    "How was my brother?" asked Aries when Gustav stopped several feet from the chair she was sitting on that was near the window.

    "The room where the marquess was recuperating is heavily guarded. No one can infiltrate it without causing rackets."

    "The people we let in the imperial pce were vampires from the maind. Stay on your toes."

    "I am from the maind, Your Majesty. Therefore, fret not. The marquess will be safe once the queen makes her move."

    Aries rocked her head, peeling her eyes away from him to the window on her side. From her spot, she could see the beautiful pce garden that only nurtured the rarest flowers.

    "Even so, do not let your guard down. You cannot becent since Abel wouldn''t make any moveбн just yet."

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    There was a moment of silence between them before her voice pierced the stilling air again.

    "Maximus wille," she said calmly, but her focus remained on the garden. "His schedule will be a lot freer from today onwards."

    "Should I add more knights to protect the pce, Your Majesty?"

    "No. I want to see what he has in store for me."

    Gustav''s lips parted, but he shut them again. He wanted to tell her this game she was ying was far more dangerous, but there was no need for that. Aries was aware of that. Thus, Gustav lowered his head in understanding.

    "Maximus IVбн" Aries hummed, narrowing her eyes. "... I heard the grand duke had to rece Conan''s spot."

    "The grand duke had always been His Majesty''s advisor. It was a wise decision of Sir Conan and His Grace," exined Gustav to soothe her worries. "It is the first time that a king of the maind stepped out of that ind. Due to a conflict of interest, the grand duke had to switch ces with Sir Conan. Worry not. Sir Conan had been unleashing his fury during his training session. Things will be calm for now."

    Aries slowly turned her head back to Gustav. But just as her lips parted, the marshall outside the chancery was heard knocking. When Gustav gave permission to enter after casting Aries a look, the knight entered discreetly.

    "Your Majesty, someone from the guests wants to have a private audience with you," the knight reported quietly and sternly.

    "Speaking of the devil," said Aries, casting Gustav a cursory look. "Prepare this person some snacks. I''ll make him tea myself."<sub> </sub>

    "As you wish, Your Majesty." Gustav lowered his head before facing the knight. "Let hime."

    ? "Yes."

    <strong>*********************************** BREAK ******************************************</strong>

    "I thought since the Rose Pce had been quiet, you''ll decline my request."

    Aries gazed at the man sitting across from her with a thin smile. Unlike the first time they met, Maximus donned an expensive and pristine suit. Hisplexion was just as pale and he still looked sickly, but his eyes looked crafty.

    "How dare I purposely decline such a request from a man with such outstanding status?" Aries humbled calmly. "In fact, I would''ve invited you to my humble dwelling to express my sincerest apology for not showing up."

    "I heard the empress wasn''t feeling well," said Maximus, sporting an amicable smile. "Thus, I understand you couldn''t show up with His Majesty. It was also the same reason I mustered my courage to go here. I''m d you had recovered well."

    Her lips stretched a little broader at his response. Both were aware that her reasons were nothing but a lie, including everything he had said just now.

    "Your Majesty," Gustav called quietly when he returned after preparing the teas and snacks, continuing his approach while wheeling the tray. Aries simply cast Gustav a quick nce as thetter served the snacks on the table between Aries and Maximus.

    Gustav, however, didn''t serve the tea since Aries wanted to brew it herself. Letting the pot and herbs on top of the trolley tray, Gustav faced the two politely.

    "I will be outside if you need me, Your Majesty," said Gustav to Aries with a small bow. He only saw her nod before taking his leave without looking back.

    "You had chosen a reliable chambein. It''s a wonder an honorable man such as himself once served a cruel man I knew."

    Aries shed Maximus a smile after thetter''s remarks, pushing herself from the chair slowly. She sauntered toward the trolley trail.

    "Peopleбн" she said as she steeped the tea, feeling his gaze on her back. "... vampires and humans alike were full of wonders and surprises. And that shouldn''t be surprising anymore."

    Maximus'' eyes went up on her nape and then down to her rear. His gaze didn''tst long as she turned, holding a saucer and a cup on it, which she ced in front of him.

    "Your husbandбн will not be delighted with this," he crooned, watching her transfer another empty cup while she waited for the tea to seep.

    "With what, Your Majesty?" Aries tilted her head to the side. "With you checking on my rear?"

    "I didn''t mean to, my empress. Apologies." His chuckles were warm and captivating. "I''m simply curious since my dearest friend would asionally squeeze his hand, saying he was trying to recall what your body feels under his touch."

    Ariesughed. "I''m not surprised."

    "Fret not. It wasn''t intended to be malicious."

    "I know." yfulness shone in her eyes. "You''ve never been out of the maind. Therefore, I understand you will be naturallyбн curious about most things."

    Her smile stretched to hide the slight sarcasm in her remarks. "I will serve the tea."

 Chapter 686 The Curtain Rises

    "We can drop the honorifics," Maximus remarked while Aries poured him a cup of tea. "I think that will make you morefortable."

    "I do not mind, but I''m afraid that will make you uneasy."

    "Hahбн I am even more ufortable now that everyone called me differently and with such foreign respect." He shrugged, smiling yfully. "I can only me myself, though. It''s the path I had taken, and I should be ready for it."

    Aries smiled in satisfaction, taking a seat opposite Maximus.

    "I can rte," she mused, picking up the teacup and adding as she straightened her back. "The throne always has a price, and the crown is heavier than what it appears."

    "I cannot deny that," heughed, bending over to pick up the teacup. He sniffed the aroma and the side of his lips curled up, snapping his eyes up at her. "It smells good."

    "The nt I added has a pleasant scent when you make it as tea."

    "And the catch?" Maximus arched a brow carefully. "At this point in time, what I learned after stepping out to the outside world is that not all pretty things must be taken at face value. There''s always a catch бк big or small."

    A chuckle slipped past Aries''s lips. "It had poisonous properties. Fret not, it''s safe."

    "Poison had always been in my blood," he humored, lifting the cup slightly. "I hope this isn''t against the rules of etiquette."

    "There''s no need to worry. I''m the only one who witnessed how your habits in drinking wine are the same as you drink your tea," she humored back, smiling back at him as she watched him take a sip. Her eyes glinted as its corners squinted. Her thin smile faded slowly.

    "It''s just as good as I expected it to be," Maximus praised, pleased at the taste lingering in his mouth. When he ced the teacup back on the table, he lifted his eyes to her. "I will cut to the chase, Danie. Or should I address you as your real name in Rikhill? Or the name you will have to take in the future?"

    "Whatever that suits you, Your Majesty." Her smile returned, but this time, it didn''t reach her eyes. "What people address me never mattered. As long as you arefortable with it."

    "Then I''ll assume I can talk casually," he said and nodded with a smile. "As I was saying, the reason for this visit has something to do with that core you are holding."

    "I figured it has something to do with it."

    Maximus offered a slight smile. "Maleficent. The most powerful witch that had ever existed. The mother of all witches. Many don''t know about her, even the powerful devil-descent Grimsbanne. The only person who knew about her and the truths behind her and our race is the king."

    "You know what''s even more interesting? This knowledge is passed down to the next king," he continued. "Whether the next one seeded the throne through legal means or by force. That is why it is important for the king to be powerful because anyone could take this knowledge."

    "Interesting, indeed." Aries rocked her head, taking her precious time instead of prying thoughtlessly.

    "With thatid on the table, I asked you to give up the abyss," he remarked, not beating around the bush. "What I meant by that is the power you hold."<sub> </sub>

    The side of Aries''s lips curled up into a smirk. "And why would I do that?"

    "Because Maleficentбн shouldn''t have been born." The thin smile on his face slowly faded, reced by nothing but solemnness. "And her existence should be sealedбн forever."

    "Because she is too powerful and you are afraid she is a threat to your power?" Aries arched her brow, tilting her head to the side. "You do not have to be afraid, Maximus. Unless you n to cross me."

    "You do not understand."

    "Enlighten me. What is there that I did not understand in this matter?"

    "The Grimsbanne will kill you once the abyss epted you as its holder." Aries''s expression faded as shallow lines appeared in between her brows at his quick response. "Or you might kill them."

    Maximus chuckled upon seeing her subtle reaction. "If you do not believe me, then you can ask your husband. I''m certain he already had an idea."

    "No one knows the future, and no one holds it. Therefore, that im only has little value."

    "That is because the past had taken that away from anyone. The past had cursed the Grimsbanne; they had been blessed with unbelievable strength, but those who weren''t chosen had shorter lives. The witches were gifted with ridiculous talents, yet unable to use them without a sacrifice." Each word was clearer than the previous one while his eyes held Aries''s. "It is the same for vampires; we were created to take another to survive. Under the full moon, wolves had to risk their lives to stop their body morphing or breaking rtionships just because their wolf recognized another mate."

    "If I tell you the history of this world, a day will not be enough," Maximus added. "But to summarize my point, Maleficent is just one among the few people who were chosen by the people who called themselves gods."

    Aries watched her breathing as she lifted her chin slightly. "One among the few. By this, you meanбн?"

    "Maleficent and the twelve Zodiac, the chosen seven seeds of the child of evil; the Grimsbanne, the king of the vampires, the kindreds of themb and wolf, the strongest man who carried the blessing of the light; the man who carried the sword of light." Maximus paused before he smiled. "If everyone had existed at the same time, a war that is worse than any had witnessed might ensue."

    "Therefore, I am asking you nicely to deny Maleficent," he continued, this time with a much lighter tone. "Or if you do not believe me, I offer you an alliance."

    "An alliance?" Aries arched a brow, caught off-guard by his offer.

    "Yes."

    "Against, who?"

    "The Grimsbanne," he said with a smile. "You might think this offer is ridiculous, but once the time hase, we can talk about it."

    Maximus stroked his thighs mildly. "I had taken so much of your time and it''ll be in my conscience if I had taken more. Anyway, an official weing banquet will be held in two days'' time. I truly hope you cane. It''ll be nice to spend time with you both."

 Chapter 687 An Omen Is Coming

    "So he went to see her?"

    Abel stood in front of the window, listening to Isaiah''s report. He was holding his wrist on his back, tapping it with his fingers mildly.

    "And Conan?" he asked, without taking his eyes from the vast expanse through the window.

    "He is currently in the barracks with Leon. Roman and Climaco had been sparring with himбн" Isaiah trailed off as he recalled the news regarding theirst spar.

    "It''s a good thing that La Crox is here to spar with him. If he spars with those two, he might break them."

    "I agree, Your Majesty."

    "Let him be for now," said Abel, snapping his eyes as his gaze shifted to Isaiah''s faint reflection. "He hadn''t used his sword for a long time. He needs practice on who to y."

    Abel slowly released his wrist, moving his left hand in a circr motion while flexing his fingers on his right. He had been doing this as ofte and seeing him do it again, Isaiah lowered his eyes.

    "That is bing a habit now," Isaiah pointed out quietly.

    "Of course, it will be." The corners of Abel''s lips stretched until his teeth were showing. "I hadn''t seen my empress for days. I need to recall what her body feels like."

    Isaiah drew his lips into a thin line, lifting his eyes again. Abel''s back was still facing him while Abel now had his hands in a tight fist, moving them in a circr motion like a wrist exercise.

    "The official banquet will be in two days," Isaiah reminded the emperor solemnly. "Should I dig up your sister?"

    "Let her be." A glint flickered across Abel''s eyes. "I will send herpanyter."

    "Alright."

    "And that person?" Abel nced over his shoulder. "Have you found him?"

    "Unfortunately, we hadn''t."

    "I see. How interesting." Abel smirked, stretching his neck from one side to the other. "Then I have no choice."

    Isaiah pressed his lips into a thin line once again. "You do not have to do this, Your Majesty."

    "Maleficent is not someone to have existed," Abel argued calmly, yet the lurking darkness in them was clear to distinguish. "It''s been a while since I had held my sword, Void. I never thought there will be a time my hands will tremble in excitement with the sheer thought of wielding it again. It had found its match."

    "Maximus is making us dance in his tune."

    "The music is delightful and therefore, it''ll be an insult not to dance." Abel slowly turned, facing Isaiah squarely. "Focus on the banquet, Isaiah. My gut feeling tells me it will be a long night."

    Isaiah held Abel''s gaze and recognized that sinister look hiding in the emperor''s eyes. As someone who had served Abel for many years, Isaiah understood the excitement in Abel''s eyes.

    Abel would march to death once moreбн not his, though.

    "As you wished, Your Majesty." Isaiah beckoned a neck bow before he silently walked away from the room Abel had been staying in. On his way out, Isaiah nced at the huge portrait on the wall. It was Aries and Abel''s official portrait as the empress and emperor.<sub> </sub>

    His eyes lingered on their faces, letting out a shallow breath. Isaiah stopped by the door, looking back at Abel. The Emperor had already turned his back on him, so his eyes veered to the other items in this collection room.

    The wall was full of portraits of Aries; there were huge ones and small frames. Each corner were the things бк Aries''s stuff бк Abel collected ever since she stepped foot in the empire: a handkerchief, strands of her hair, the cup they first shared a poisoned tea, aced glove, a clip, the first dress she wore in the empire, and everything like an obsessed man.

    But aside from those, the most conspicuous of all was the enormous cage on the corner. Everyone thought it was a joke when Abel made that request, but it seemed Conan discerned it wasn''t a mere joke. Thus, the existence of that cage.

    <strong>''It seemed that cage will serve its purpose soon,''</strong> Isaiah thought, snapping his eyes back to Abel''s back. <strong>''Had he always thought this would happen?''</strong>

    Another shallow breath slipped past Isaiah''s nostrils before leaving the doorpletely. When the faint click of the door caressed Abel''s ears, his expression slowly died and turned in.

    "Ahhбн darling," he murmured, closing his eyes while stretching his neck from one side to the other. Abel then turned around, looking around this collection room he was so fond of. This room was even more secured and hidden than the royal treasury.

    "My treasure." Another whisper escaped his lips, walking towards the first portrait he put in this room. The portrait of Aries was done with nothing but red colors, but it still looked like her. It was stunning.

    Abel raised a hand until his palm was touching the portrait. His eyes remained on Aries, his teeth grinding softly.

    "You are making me very, very angry," came out an airy voice with eyes glinting with irritation and unknown emotions. "And at the same time, very amused. You are driving me insane. Seriously. So rude."

    <strong>*********************************** BREAK *************************************</strong>

    <strong>[ FORBIDDEN MANSION ]</strong>

    Sunny was kneeling inside the sandbox she got from Abel so she could make sandcastles. When a wind suddenly blew past behind her, her dirty little hands that were dabbing the small hill she made paused. She watched as some sand grains scatter in the air, and then slowly gazed heavenward.

    Thick clouds gathered slowly, covering the bright blue sky and slowly hiding the sun behind it. It didn''t take long before the surrounding appeared gloomy as another gust of wind blew past behind her. Sunny snapped her eyes from the sky when the sandhill she made crumbled down.

    "Oh no," she murmured, gazing down at the ruined hill before her. "It will rain soon."

    Sunny slowly turned her head to her right, catching her uncle, Leon, approaching her. His expression was stiff since Maximus''s arrival, but Sunny didn''t dwell on it for long. She drifted her eyes to the mansion behind her, setting her gaze on a particr window.

    There, in one of the windows, a man was standing while staring in her direction.

    "Sunny," she heard Leon''s voice when he was closer, but she didn''t take her eyes off the man in the window. Leon called her once more, but she didn''t respond. Hence, he followed the direction she was gazing at, seeing just windows with no one in them.

    Yet, in her eyes, she was holding someone''s gaze.

    "Sunnyбн" Sunny whispered, her adorable face sporting a solemn look. "... felt the same when her mama and papa left to find my grandma and grandpa."

    Leon furrowed his brows, looking back at the little girl.

    "An omen isingбн he said," she added without taking her eyes off of the window where Conan''s father was recuperating.

    "Said who?" asked Leon, only to see Sunny point at another window. His eyes followed the direction she was pointing, but no one was there. The lines in between his brows deepened, looking back at her, only to hear her speak softly again.

    "Him," she said under her breath. "A Grimsbanne will die, is what he is saying."

 Chapter 688 The Hallowed Eve

    "Papa, why do you like astrology so much?" The young Aries asked, staring at her father, who stood on the balcony while gazing up at the stars.

    A middle-aged man smiled, gazing down at his beautiful daughter, who shared the same eye color as him. He held the young Aries'' hand gently; a hold that always made her feel safe.

    "Because they were interesting, my little Aime," said the King of Rikhill, looking heavenward at the glorious thousand suns in the night. "When you are still inside your mother queen, I had difficulty choosing a suitable name that would suit a blessed child."

    "That''s the time I first found an interest in astronomy." His voice was soft and full of pride, eyes mirroring the twinkle of the stars and the benign smile of the moon. "Ram. The first sign of the zodiacs. Bold and ambitious, always wanting to be first."

    Aries''s father squeeze her little hand and slowly faced her. He smiled and squatted down, picking up his little princess in his arms.

    "But they were also passionate, motivated, and confident leaders who build amunity with relentless determination," he continued. "That is why I named you Aries."

    Aries blinked innocently. "Papa, do you think Aime will be a leader someday?"

    "Who knows?" His smile stretched. "But what I can tell you is that you are my daughter and whatever my daughter wants to be, I''m sure she will seed."

    "Really?" she asked, and her father nodded. "Can I be the queen someday?"

    Her fatherughed. "You can if you want to."

    "Should I marry Davien?"

    "Haha! I don''t think your brother will approve of that." The king of Rikhill shook his head at her silly question.

    Both of them went silent momentarily as he gazed up at the beautiful sky full of stars.

    "Aime, my daughter, the crown is heavy." His voice pierced the air once more. "Sacrifices are made for the goodness of many, regardless if that decision will devastate you."

    "Papa, are you sad?"

    "No." He shook his head, setting his gentle eyes back to her.

    "But papa doesn''t look happy."

    Her father sported a thin smile, lifting her up slightly. "Your father is just tired."

    "Is it because Davien is naughty?"

    "Haha!" heughed. "Yes. Your brother is deviant, but Davien is not the one that is causing me distress."

    "Then who?" she cocked her head to the side. Her father didn''t answer and just looked at her with a gentler smile.

    "Aime, my daughter." The king raised his other hand and patted her head affectionately. "My heart always wished you a good life. I always know you will not live a simpler life, so I always wish you will choose happiness over power, contentment over greed, and forgiveness over vengeance."

    "How I wish to tell you to not live as you want it to," he added under his breath, but this was something Aries was too young to understand, let alone analyze his words. "I should''ve done extensive research before naming you."

    Aries still had her head tilted to the side. "Is my name Aries terrible?"

    "No." He shook his head. "It just suits you perfectlyбн and it worries me sometimes."

    "Why, Papa?"<sub> </sub>

    "Because history says many things." His answer was vague, peeling his eyes away from her. The King of Rikhill had always loved history, not just the inspiring history of Rikhill, but also the history of othernds.

    It was the same reason Aries was fond of the subject. The benefits of learning about other countries customs and practices were just the bonus.

    "Holy warбн" he whispered, and Aries barely heard him despite being held in his arms. "... and the forting Void War."

    "Papa?" Aries called as her father was just mumbling, making him look back at her.

    He smiled once again. "It''ste, Aime. Should Papa read you a bedtime story?"

    "Mhm!" her face brightened up, inducingughter from him.

    "Alright. But don''t tell your brother about it," he said, marching away from the balcony with Aries in his arms. "He will be upset."

    "Ohhбн I want to gloat." She pouted.

    Aries had always remembered how her father used to read her bedtime stories before she became a teen. It was her favorite time of the day with the mother queen not feeling well with another pregnancy. But only now did Aries remember this memory.

    Now that she was walking towards the banquet where she was an empress, living the life she had chosen. There was only one thing that she could tell her father if he was still alive.

    Aries had no regrets.

    "The only moon of the empire had arrived!" yelled the master of the ceremony as Aries stood in front of the door, donning an elegant sangria dress and a crown that only she could wear. "Pay respect to Her Majesty, the Empress!"

    The door tug firmly before it creaked open, revealing the cozy banquet hall. As she stepped inside, everyone bowed and curtsy aside from Maximus and Abel, who were sitting on the separaterge table facing the guests.

    Aries held her chin up, observing everyone from the corner of her eyes. No one dared raise their head in her presence until she was seated.

    "I''m d you have graced us with your presence, my empress," mused Abel, standing from his seat as he approached closer. He offered his hand, which she sped gently, then guided it to his arm.

    "I thought you will not make it." Abel leaned closer to her side, his breath stroking the shell of her ear. "I missed you."

    Aries smiled, but it didn''t reach her eyes. She cast him a quick nce.

    "There is no wayбн I will miss tonight''s banquet, my love," she humored, stopping near the table where the Emperor, the Empress, and their esteemed guests, the king of vampires, Maximus, would sit.

    Maximus also rose from his seat and offered Aries a smile. "I''m honored to be in your presence, Your Majesty. How nice that the emperor and the empress had hosted such a grandiose banquet for a lowly king such as myself."

    Aries opened her mouth but decided to shut them again. She only gave Maximus a smile and nodded.

    "I hope you will have a good time tonight, King Maximus IV." Her voice was alluring with a tinge of seductiveness in them. "His Majesty and I had been preparing for this banquet."

    "He will." Abel cocked his head to her, cing his hand on her back like a gentleman. "Shall we take a seat?"

    Aries nodded and allowed Abel to assist her to her chair. Her spot was on Abel''s right and then Maximus on his left. The table for them was facing the few guests that were invited, arge space in the middle for dancing, and tall tables to ce the guests'' drinks.

    This wasn''t the usual banquet that would be hosted in the imperial pce. It was a banquet for the creatures of the night to paint the town red.

    When the master of ceremony announced, "tonight''s banquet, will now begin!" the orchestra started ying a heavy harmonious tune to match the dark mood of the hallowed eve.

 Chapter 689 I Will Stab You

    <strong>[ FORBIDDEN MANSION ]</strong>

    Conan was sitting on a chair beside the bed where his father was resting. His arms were propped on his spread leg, hands dangling in between his thigh. Unlike his usual expensive clothing, he was in an inner armor suit, which he hadn''t worn for a long time.

    "The banquet had started," he murmured, lifting his eyes up at the person on the bed. A deep breath slipped past his lips, straightening his back. "This is all your fault."

    "You stood untouchable for many years, only to fall into your son''s scheme." Conan shook his head, pushing himself up to stand. "Now here he was, bringing us problems you avoided in the past. We will have to do the fixing againбн again."

    Conan stressed thest word before his teeth clenched. His eyes bore no affection for the man lying motionless on the bed.

    "I don''t think this will end in a single night. However, once this is concluded, I hope that will be thest time I will see your face," he added under his breath, gripping his fist on his side firmly. "Do notбн make me and Abel wield our swords again."

    Another deep exhale escaped his mouth before he loosened his grip and rxed his shoulders. Conan closed his eyes momentarily, and when he reopened them, calmness reced the animosity that was filling them.

    Conan didn''t idle for too long as he pivoted on his heel. He stood still for a moment, clenching his teeth, before sauntering off silently. This would probably be thest time he woulde to this ce and in this very room. There was no other reason for him to visit his father or tell the person in slumber how much he loathed him.

    When Conan closed the door behind him, he stopped. He turned his head to his right, only to see Sunny standing up in the corner. She was dressed up as a boy, and from her attire, she was supposed to be at the banquet. But here she was, looking back at Conan with a solemn front.

    "What are you doing here?" asked Conan out of in curiosity, ncing up to see if Leon was with her. He wasn''t. "Where''s Leon?"

    "Handsome Uncle, are you off to the banquet now?" she inquired,pletely ignoring his questions.

    "No." He shook his head, marching to Sunny''s vantage point. Conan then squatted down in front of her. "Shouldn''t you be there?"

    "Should I?" Sunny cocked her head to the side. "Who will be left behind here?"

    "That man doesn''t need someone to look after him," Conan reassured, referring to his father, who was still in aa. "Maximus doesn''t need him anymore."

    ? "For as long as your father is breathing, your brother will need him."

    "If he dies, then he dies."

    "Sunny doesn''t approve." Her chubby cheek puffed slightly as she pursed her lips. "Sunny brought him here, so Sunny will not allow any harm to befall him."

    Conan forced a thin smile, raising a hand to pat her head. "That''s nice of you."

    "Will everyone be in danger tonight?"

    "The Forbidden Pce will be left untouched for sure." He nodded reassuringly. "Don''t worry."

    "I''m not worried," said Sunny quickly.

    "Is that so?"

    "Sunny will not let anyone get harmed." Her lips curled up slightly until innocence dominated her adorable countenance. "Do not die, Handsome Uncle. Sunny likes Handsome Uncle the most."<sub> </sub>

    "I will not." Conan chuckled, snapping his brows up. "Are you heading to his room?"

    "Mhm."

    "Should I help you get there?"

    Sunny shook her head. "Sunny is fine."

    "Are you sure?"

    "Yes."

    "Very well." Conan cleared his throat and shed her another kind smile. "I''ll be on my way now. Stay here. The Forbidden Mansion is the only safe ce tonight. Isaiah and the witches cast a strong protection barrier in this area. It''s best if you stay here."

    "Mhm!" Sunny nodded with a smile, gazing up as Conan stood.

    "I''m going then."

    "Bye-bye, Handsome Uncle." Sunny waved, pivoting on her heel as Conan walked past her. Thetter looked back at her and smiled before he sauntered off, fading into the dark turn of the hallway.

    Sunny remained on her spot for a minute, even after Conan left her line of sight. Her countenance remained the same, blinking, cocking her head to the side.

    "Handsome Uncle had a strong back," shemented to herself, noticing how Conan had drastically changed over the past several days. Or maybe Conan just didn''t change. It was just that he was going back to his old habits as Abel''s sword.

    "Sunny wishes him good luck." When those words rolled out of Sunny''s tiny mouth, she spun and headed to her initial destination.

    She tiptoed to reach the knob, having slight difficulty opening it. The second the door creaked open, Sunny went in. Her steps stopped, eyes falling onto the bed where a man was sitting up with his back against the headboard.

    "He truly must''ve hated me," said the man, staring at the chair Conan had previously sat on. "Though I cannot me him. It was me who left his heart broken."

    "No one can me you either because you had responsibilities bigger than anyone," Sunny replied, taking little steps to the bed. "You did your best to keep things from happening."

    "But my best wasn''t enough." The man slowly shifted his attention to Sunny when thetter reached the bed. "Because the worst will happen."

    Sunny climbed up onto the bed and sat on the edge, hands on either side of her, eyes on him. "The worst will always happen. One just needs to be prepared for the result."

    "Are you not going to do anything?" he asked, seeing how rxed she was despite the tension the night had brought. "Tonightбн might change a lot of things. It only takes one night for something to turn around. You had seen what happened to the maind."

    He assessed Sunny''s unchanging countenance and then added, "it will happen here."

    "I do have ns tonight," she answered truthfully, flinging her legs up on the bed. She then knelt on the surface of the soft mattress, slipping her hand inside her suit, only to take out a tiny knife. Her lips stretched, looking back at the man.

    "I will stab you."

 Chapter 690 Will That Hurt Her?

    <strong>[ MAXIMUM PENITENTIARY ]</strong>

    A man was panting after going through torturous days. His hands and feet were bound by heavy chains attached to the concrete wall, slumped on the floor that was tainted with old and fresh blood. His hair was disheveled, dangling past his dirty and haggard face.

    The man grunted through his gritted teeth when he heard the metal bars ahead screech as the chains loosened. The sound of it had started to give him nightmares, knowing there were only two people who could go in and out of this cell: Abel, and then his grandchild, Sunny.

    He could only think of what sick torture those two had in store for him. Putting him through hell had be their hobby now. And that thought alone... was enough to make him lose his mind from anger.

    "What... do you want now?" he grumbled under his breath, lifting his eyes up, expecting to see Abel or Sunny. But to his surprise, the person standing by the open cell was neither of those he expected.

    The visitor had a huge cloak and hood over the head. Although he couldn''t see the person''s face because of theck of light, he could feel the person''s gaze.

    "How pitiful." When the visitor spoke, the captive''s silver eyes dted in surprise.

    "Javier?" his lips quivered, heart thudding with both surprise and excitement.

    The visitor slowly slid his hood off, confirming the former''s guess. "It''s been a while, Joaquin. I''m d to see you alive, although not as well as I expected."

    "Javier." Joaquin''s jaw tightened as his eyes, which initially bore nothing but helplessness, were reced with fire. "How did you get in here? No. I don''t care about that! Let me out of this damn ce!"

    Joaquin aggressively pulled his chains while keeping his eyes locked on his brother. But s, unlike what he expected, Javier simply stood in the same spot.

    "Javier! What the hell are you doing?" another roar went out of Joaquin''s mouth. "Come, quick! Help me."

    "Why do I need to help you, brother?" Joaquin''s actions immediately froze upon Javier''s question, watching thetter cock his head to the side. "You''ve proven yourself useless and are now bound with these... chains. I guess bing a vampire isn''t that much of a help, but I don''t me you. It just so happened the man you crossed is a Grimsbanne. Everyone knows about the Grimsbanne; even the king of the maind was wary of them. But you''re an exception since you are like a child about to discover the world isn''t all rainbows and butterflies."

    Hearing Javier''s remarks and hiszy tone, Joaquin''s heart thudded against his chest. All Joaquin could do was stare at his brother nkly. He knew Javier, and back then, Javier Imperial was submissive and yful. But he had always talked to Joaquin with respect. It was very easy to distinguish that Javier didn''t consider Joaquin in a higher position anymore, nor did he see him as equal.

    "You!" Joaquin ground his teeth in anger as his umted grievances shot through the roof. "What do you think you''re doing right now, Javier? You got everything you want because I gave you permission to do as you pleased!"

    "Yes, you did, brother."

    Joaquin opened his mouth again to growl at him, but his voice didn''te out. Javier''s temperament and treatment rendered him speechless. This only reminded Joaquin of how his life had changed since that day he lost everything.

    The honor, the respect, the luxurious life, and everything.

    Joaquin used to have it all, and blinded by such elegance, how could his circumstance be anything but pitiful? Even Javier was talking down to him. In fact, even a three-year-old child was speaking to him as if he has no value at all.<sub> </sub>

    "Oh, Joaquin. You are so silly." Javier chuckled, seeing that Joaquin had finally shut up upon realizing their current position. He sauntered in, squatting down in a spot where Joaquin wouldn''t be able to reach him.

    "Yes, Joaquin. I am no longer your dog," Javier stressed each word, keeping his eyes locked with those same pair of eyes who used to look down on everything. "I had broken free ever since that woman slew me across the chest. So you better ask nicely if you want this nightmare to end."

    Joaquin''s heart trembled in anger, but he clenched his teeth from saying further insults.

    "Good boy." Javier smiled, nodding in satisfaction. "This is what I always like about you, Joaquin. You''re quick to adapt. After everything you''ve been through, you still ended up with nothing."

    "If you are going to let me out, just tell me what is it you want from me?" Joaquin''s voice shook as he tried to suppress his building fury. "You will note in here after all this time if you don''t need me."

    Javier let out a short chuckle, swinging a finger mildly. "Really. You never ceased to amuse me."

    Joaquin didn''t disrupt Javier''sughter as a glint flickered across his eyes. He waited patiently, telling himself not to assault and gnaw the life out of this son of a bitch. Not yet. Not until he was out of this ce and make everyone -- every single one of them pay.

    "Alright. I''ll cut to the chase." Javier cleared his throat as his smile slightly faded. "Someone wants to help you, only if you are willing."

    "What is it?"

    Javier smirked as his eyes glinted. "Do you want vengeance, brother?"

    "The answer to that is obvious," said Joaquin through his gritted teeth. "The only reason I am still existing is that I will make them all pay someday."

    "No. The only reason you are still alive is that monster... let you live to y with you for the next hundreds of years." Javier corrected, but this time, Joaquin didn''t react because that was a fact. "He is insane, and because he is insane, he didn''t know he was giving a lot of his enemies opportunities to mess with him."

    "Men like that, men like you are always bound to fall," he continued in an amused manner. "This person I am talking about is quite busy at the moment, so I will ry his words."

    Joaquin listened quietly, and as he did, his pupils dted while staring at Javier. Thetter smirked, cocking his head to the side.

    "Can you do that?" Javier asked. "Finish the unfinished job of silencing the marquess? That man she called brother affectionately. You beheaded her beloved brother once. Can you do it again?"

    Joaquin''s lips parted before a quiet, "hah..." slipped past his lips. "Will that hurt her?"

    "She nearly went insane when she heard the news." Javier shrugged yfully.

    "Then I''ll kill him. A thousand times."

 Chapter 691 Underneath The Mask Was Also A Mask

    <strong>[ BACK TO THE BANQUET ]</strong>

    ? Unlike the usual banquet, tonight''s fete was quiet. The minimal chattering faded into the orchestra; each movement of the guests was graceful yet calcted. It was overall peaceful and cozy, though.

    <strong>Ding! Ding! Ding!</strong>

    Aries arched her brows when she heard the loud sound of cutlery hitting the ss. When she turned her head to follow the sound, she caught Maximus rising from his seat. Her eyes then shifted to Abel, and her husband simply smirked with his focus on the crowd ahead.

    "I would like to make a toast to everyone." Maximus'' voice echoed when the guests set their attention to where the royals were at. He was holding a ss of wine, shing Abel and Aries a smile.

    <strong>''What is he up to now?'' </strong>Aries wondered, sipping from the winess elegantly.

    "I am honored and overwhelmed by everyone''s warm wee. As we all know, everyone in here was considered ran away traitors on the maind." Maximus''s remarks put a frown on some guests'' faces. "I know some of you weren''t pleased with the title. Therefore, I apologize on behalf of the royal family for providing you with such malicious titles."

    "The maind бк us vampires бк had kept to ourselves for centuries. We had been here for a long time and I understand the desire toe out into the outside world. I, myself, was regaled by what urs in here that never urred on the maind." Maximus paused while the side of his lips curled up into an amicable smile. "As the new king of the maind, I am asking you that we start a new te."

    He then faced Abel, grinning from ear to ear. "With the help of His and Her Majesty, we will hold hand in hand to bring out the best for bothnds and make the maind an official territory the world will recognize."

    "The vampires will no longer live in hiding, nor will they have to wait in the night for their turn." Maximus slowly faced everyone with a smile before setting his eyes back on Abel again. "May I pour you a drink, my friend?"

    "So long as you are uncoerced, sure," Abel smirked triumphantly, watching Maximus put down his ss to reach for the newly opened wine.

    "I had patiently waited for this day that we can share this wine, my friend. I hope you will like it." Maximus served Abel the drink. "I hope Her Majesty will also share a toast with me."

    "I do not mind so long as I will be able to wake up tomorrow," Aries humored, making himugh.

    "Of course." He then hinted to a servant to pass the ss to Aries as she was sitting next to Abel. As soon as the ss reached Aries, Maximus also picked up his ss.

    Aries and Abel slowly rose to their seat, holding the winess served by Maximus. With smiles on their faces, the three shared friendly nces before facing the guests. When they did, the guests were also served new drinks that Maximus had brought for everyone to enjoy.

    "I only brought the most exquisite selected wines that had matured for centuries," dered Maximus, waiting until everyone was served. "For the future of the Haimirich Empire and the Maind, I make this toast for a promising future of this alliance. May this drink cleanse all our terrible records and the painful memories of the past."

    Maximus raised his winess, turning his head to Abel and Aries. Abel smiled at him before he turned to Aries, offering her a dashing smile. Her cheek naturally blushed under his gaze, raising her ss mildly before facing the crowd.

    The guests smiled at the friendly rtionship between the three, reassured that Abel and Aries, their monarchs, had found the same equilibrium with Maximus. Since most vampires who lived outside the maind had many reasons they left, they were aware of the strict rules in thend.

    Vampires like them would never step foot on the maind unless they wanted to die. But now that there was a new king, their hearts believed they had nothing to be afraid of anymore. Abel''sck of hostility added ease to everyone since the vampires in Haimirich Empire owed him the peace they had now.

    As everyone took a sip, no one noticed the glint that flickered across Maximus'' eyes. The corner of his lips curled up into a smirk, licking his lips as he put the winess from his lips.

    "Nowбн everything will be clear." Maximus''s voice was low, twirling the ss as he watched everyone drink.

    "Your Majesty."<sub> </sub>

    Abel''s brows rose as a knight approached his side. When he looked back, he noticed the solemness and panic in the knight''s eyes.

    <strong>Thud.</strong>

    Before the knight could approach the emperor closer, a faint thud echoed in the air, followed by the sound of shattered ss. Abel slowly looked back at the banquet hall, only to catch the guests falling on the floor one after another.

    "Hahбн" Abel ran his tongue across his inner cheek, shifting his attention to Maximus. "You didn''t tell me you nned to kill my people. I hope you are prepared for the consequences."

    Maximusughed at Abel''szy tone. "You will not allow me to serve them the drinks I prepared without expecting that much. Don''t make me look like I am the bad guy here, my friend. You know what I will do, and you allowed it to happen. I''m definitely not the worse here. I''m just bad."

    "Ahhбн" Meanwhile, Aries touched her upper lip only to see blood cling to her fingers. "That''s a kind of poison I never had, huh?"

    Abel nced at her, and hiszy countenance slowly turned firm. He turned his back against Maximus to face her.

    "Darling, are you alright?" he asked worriedly, holding her arm mildly.

    "Do not worry about me." the sharpness in her eyes remained despite her nosebleed. "I think I might need a rest."

    "I am not surprised that you, my friend, will turn your back on your enemy. Though, I must say you two were quite rxed at the situation,"mented Maximus, cocking his head to the side. "I haven''t seen my brother nor the duke. I guess you''re just as prepared as I am."

    Abel nced over his shoulder. "Are you worried that your efforts will go down the drain?"

    "Not at all." Maximus''s smile reached his eyes. "It is to be expected."

    "Hah бк" Abel ignored him and turned to Aries. "I will assist you out, darling."

    Aries''splexion turned pale as droplets of sweat formed on her forehead. When she nodded, she held his arm and took irregr steps away from the tform where they stood. The knight, who originally came to report to Abel, approached them again.

    "Your Majesty бк"

    Aries and Abel suddenly froze, and even the knight nearly bit his tongue upon smelling a strong stench of blood. This time, Abel''splex countenance grew even firmer as his eyes shone a bright red.

    "My brother." Aries clutched Abel''s arm as her pupils went wide, looking back in Maximus''s direction, only to see the man gazing back at her with a smirk.

    "My friend, why don''t we make a bet?" Maximus''s expression turned bright as Abel looked back at him. "Why don''t we guess which main character will die first? Hmm?"

    "Why are you here for?" Abel inquired at the knight but kept his eyes fixed on Maximus.

    "He escaped," reported the knight sternly. "The one in the maximum penitentiary. Joaquin Imperial escaped."

 Chapter 692 The One Who Falls Get Up Stronger

    <strong>[ ROSE PALACE ]</strong>

    Gustav was panting for air while slumped in the hallway with his back against the wall. Blood gushed out of the side of his head, making him close his left eye. Since the start of the banquet, he had been protecting the Rose Pce where the marquess was staying. Aries specifically ordered them to protect her brother and even sacrificed her own safety.

    <strong>But s... </strong>

    "Your Majesty," he whispered, lifting his hand, only to wince in pain. <strong>''I failed.''</strong>

    Gustav tried to move his feet, but the enemy who came as silently as the night incapacitated him by shing his tendons. He might be a vampire, but Gustav needed time to recover from the fatal wounds he inflicted.

    "My lord..." he mumbled with a jagged breath, turning his head in the direction where a person was walking away leisurely. "I need to -- ugh!"

    The more Gustav tried to move, the more wounds would appear on his body. The person he shed with for minutes told him he better stay still if he didn''t want his body to fall apart. Gustav was sharp enough to understand the person''s words.

    The man who did this to him inflicted more unnoticeable wounds on him. By moving even just a tiny bit, Gustav might split in half. Just the thought of it sent a chill down Gustav''s spine. For a man of this caliber, there were only two people Gustav could think of who could take this intruder: Conan or Abel.

    "Gustav!" Suddenly, Gustav heard Climaco''s voice from the other end of the dim hallway.

    Climaco''s eyes dted as he ran to Gustav''s side and squatted down. "Gustav! What are you -- who did this to you?"

    "Don''t mind me or move me if you want me to live." Gustav gasped for air. "The Marquess. He -- he is in danger."

    "The marquess..." repeated Climaco through his gritted teeth, eyes burning with fury. "Where the hell did Roman go?"

    Climaco balled his fist tightly, clenching his teeth until his jaw tightened. "Was he here?"

    "Who?"

    "Joaquin Imperial." Climaco''s voice shook as the news about Joaquin''s escape and the deaths of the marshals that were guarding the penitentiary reached everyone''s ears by now. Everyone had already quietly guarded the banquet to not raise rm to the monarchs and guests, and they had already confirmed Aries was still there.

    Hence, Climaco had to make sure Joaquin didn''t go to the Rose Pce to wait for her. But s, the moment he crossed the Rose Pce''s territory, the stench of blood wafted through his nostrils. A strong magical barrier surrounded the area and thus kept the scent of blood from pervading the air.

    "I..." Gustav''s mouth quivered and turned to the direction where the person who did this to him went. "... I think that''s his name. That''s what he said."<sub> </sub>

    "That damn bastard!" Climaco ground his teeth in anger but controlled his emotions, knowing Gustav''s current condition. "My people will be here in a moment. Stay right here while I --"

    "Tell your people not to move me," Gustav requested sternly, cutting Climaco off. "I had heard about that Joaquin, but Climaco, don''t confront him until Roman is here."

    "What?" Dismay dominated Climaco''s face at Gustav''s remarks. "You want me to wait until Romees? Do you even know where he is right now? Should I let that man run havoc in my empress''s abode or even give him the slightest opportunity for their eyes to meet again?"

    "No." Climaco shook his head, thinking the traumas Aries had ovee only to return because of that damn Joaquin. "Never."

    "Cli -- maco." Gustav ground his teeth, enduring the new shes that appeared in his sleeve after sping Climaco''s shoulder. "That man... is the person who did this to me. If I can''t, you will not. I don''t know what sort of sorcery they did this time, but he is not as weak as he was back when he turned to one of us."

    "You''re human, Climaco. Her Majesty wants you alive, not dead," he added, stressing each syble, hoping Climaco would understand.

    "And she also needs her brother alive, not dead." Climaco carefully peeled Gustav''s hands from him and guided them down with care. "Wait for others toe."

    "Climaco --" Gustav winced, but Climaco didn''t stop from walking away. Thetter feigned deaf, marching to where the marquess''s room was with his eyes zing with fury.

    Joaquin was just a part of history, and therefore, he should remain in the past. Climaco made a pledge in the past, and that was to protect Aries. There might be many people who were willing to protect the empress, but Climaco had other means to protect her.

    And that was to make sure the marquess, the empress''s only brother, would make it tonight alive. Little did Climaco know, he might be a littlete for that.

    <strong>**********</strong>

    Guards that were in charge of guarding the chambers where the marquess was recuperating were all on the ground, unconscious and bleeding. It was as if a storm had gone past the floor, showing no mercy to everyone who had blocked his path.

    The room of the chambers where the marquess was left was wide open. And yet, silence reigned.

    A person''s figure stood by the side of the bed, eyes on the unconscious man lying motionless on it. If one didn''t know better, one would think Dexter was simply fast asleep because hisplexion had be better after Aries''s care.

    The person''s eyes studied Dexter''s face, slipping his hand inside the bloodstained cloak. When he took out his hand, a ck trinket was within his grasp. His lips curled up into a sinister smirk, gripping a sword on his left.

    The man ced the ck trinket on the marquess''s abdomen, patting it mildly. He did nothing for the next several seconds before lifting his sword up. Bloodstain was apparent on its des. The tip glinted as he held it up. And in one swift movement, the person struck the marquess''s stomach without a second hesitation.

 Chapter 693 Let This Challenge Him This Time

    <strong>Not everyone chose the hard road. Sometimes, they just don''t see two roads. </strong>

    <strong>*******</strong>

    "The one in the maximum penitentiary. Joaquin Imperial escaped."

    Aries''s face turned nk at the knight''s report. She knew Joaquin was imprisoned, but she never asked where or what they had been doing to him. No one cared. Joaquin was simply a part of her past, a small indicator of what she had be.

    But the thought of Joaquin walking on this world freely and knowing his vengeful heart, marching to vengeance, only meant more problems.

    Aries slowly moved her shaking eyes back to Maximus. Thetter was smiling, amused by whatever was happening outside this banquet hall.

    "Abel," she called under her breath, her lips quivering as her neck turned taut. "My brotherбн"

    "Get out of here and see the marquess''," ordered Abel to the knight with his eyes fixed on Maximus. "Gustav is protecting the Rose Pce, but send a word to Conan that the marquess''s safety is the top priority."

    Maximus smirked upon hearing the emperor''s order. "What was my brother even doing, my friend?"

    "As you wished, Your Majesty." The knight ignored Maximus and bowed, facing Aries, only for her to shake her head.

    "I''ll stay." A glint flickered across Aries''s eyes. "I will cut him myself if something happened to my brother."

    Reluctance showed in the knight''s eyes, ncing at Abel for approval. Seeing that Abel didn''t react to Aries''s wishes as his focus was on Maximus, the knight took that as a confirmation. He bowed in understanding, walking away as silently yet as quickly as possible.

    "I am astounded, Maximus," Abel mused, pping slowly. "I had always known you had a n other than this silly diplomatic alliance you had been singing about. Silly, indeed. I had overestimated you, thinking you have other schemes in store for me other than the carnage of the vampires you deemed traitors."

    His eyes fell on the people lying motionless on the floor, dead.

    "These people had been minding their own business." His voice lowered because, in Abel''s eyes, these guests were all his subjects. They might be vampires, but they were vampires who were simply lost, trying to find a ce that would wee them. "How sad."

    "My friend, as I have said, they were at fault." Maximus chuckled, ncing at the vampires who left the maind and disobeyed their orders. "All they need was to follow an order, and they cannot do that. It is just a matter of time before they do the same to you."

    "And I will be the judge when that timees."

    Maximus clicked his tongue continuously, eyes back to Abel. "They are vampires; vampires who belong to the maind. I am their king, I am their judge, not you."

    "The Grimsbannes were no kings or rulers." His eyes narrowed as he lifted his chin, looking down at Abel. "The Grimsbanne was born to serve, not rule."

    "I seeбн" Abel rocked his head. "... so that''s how it was, huh?"

    "Darling, please step aside." Abel raised a hand, casting Aries a quick look. "I don''t want you to get hurt."<sub> </sub>

    Aries clenched her teeth, making her jaw tighten. Bloodstain was still on her upper lip and herplexion was paler, but the sharpness in her eyes remained.

    "Don''t mind me," she said, shifting her sharp eyes to Maximus. "Take your time. I can hold out."

    "Of course, you can." The side of Abel''s lips curled up into a smirk, setting his focus on Maximus. "You should."

    He then took a step, spreading his fingers to the side. "Maximus IV, for good times'' sake, I truly wished you came prepared. I beg. Let this challenge me this time."

    "Do not worry, my dearest friend." Maximus'' lips stretched until his teeth were showing. "I''ve been to hell and back, hell and back again, and again, and again."

    "Then this call for another visit!" Abelughed through his gritted teeth. "This time with no return."

    The moment those words rolled out of Abel''s mouth, he disappeared from his vantage point and reappeared in front of Maximus. His hand reached for thetter''s neck, but when he grasp it, the image distorted like a mirage.

    "Oh, dear!" Maximus''sughter was heard from the side, several steps from Abel. "My friend, I don''t think you can fight me with your bare hands and with such awareness."

    His lips stretched as his eyes glinted in bright red. "Let yourself known, Oblivion."

    Abel flung his arms at Maximus. But just like the first attempt, it was simply a mirage. Yet Maximus''sughter was echoing, reappearing on the other side. This time, Maximus wasn''t able to speak as Abel flicked something at the former''s forehead.

    <strong>''He is just ying,''</strong> Aries thought, dragging her feet to the nearest table. Her eyes fell on the woman lying unconsciously near it, catching a slight marking on the woman''s nape. She didn''t dwell on it, though, barely keeping her consciousness intact.

    "Not yet," she told herself, taking a seat, clutching the edge of the round table. "Not yet."

    Aries snapped her eyes up, catching two shadows leaping from space to space. Even without the strong poison in her system, Aries wouldn''t be able to catch on to this fight. Abel and Maximus were just too fast for her, but she could definitely hear Maximus''s echoingughter.

    Hisughter was too eerie and sinister that anyone would feel the dread crawling under the skin.

    "Brotherбн" she breathed out, blinking weakly. Aries then gazed up at where the fight was going, and when she blinked once again, a strong gust of wind blew past her. Her eyes slowly moved up, only to see Abel''s back blocking her view.

    "She''s off limits, Maximus." Blood dripped from Abel''s grip as he held the de to stop it from plunging into Aries''s temple. "She''s minding her own business. Let her be."

    Maximus smirked, pulling back the sword as he hopped away. "No promises, my friend. After all, I need to force you out of thisбн" he paused, gazing at Abel from head to toe. "... form бк"

    Maximus''s eyes dted as his breathing suspended, staring at Abel, who suddenly appeared in front of him. Abel was faster than he already was, like a lightning,ing unannounced. All Maximus saw was the pair of crimson eyes shining with murderous intent.

    "That is not a request; eyesбн off of her," was all Maximus heard before a paralyzing pain erupted in his stomach, sending him flying out of the banquet hall.

    <strong>CRASH!</strong>

 Chapter 694 Carnage

    <strong>[ FLASHBACK: MAINLAND ]</strong>

    "Haha! My friend, can you go easy on me?" Maximusughed, grinning from ear to ear as he gazed at Abel standing meters from him. "I haven''t shot an arrow, and they''re already changing my target."

    Abel chuckled, putting down the bow and arrow. "You are slow, Maximus."

    "I am just not angry," replied Maximus whilst shaking his head. "I didn''t know your parent''s decision to enter an eternal slumber will anger you."

    "It''s not anger, Maximus. It''s joy." Abel smirked. "I am in tears they would finally enter their eternal slumber."

    Maximus kept his smile, studying Abel''s side profile as thetter took a stance to shoot. Abel closed one eye, waiting for the people to rece the straw target.

    "You were sad." Abel paused, looking back at Maximus after thetter''s remarks.

    "And why would I feel such an emotion?"

    "They were your parents."

    "Even if they were, they were nothing but people I was tricked to live with." Abel let out a shallowugh. "Those people I needed to call my mother and father weren''t my mother and father."

    Abel peeled his eyes from Maximus at the new straw target from a distance. "Carrying the blood of Grimsbanneбн that is the only thing that connects us. We are not family. We are people living in the same abode, wishing each other nothing but death."

    "That is the only thing everyone in that household shares aside from this curse," he continued, casting Maximus a knowing look. "Death is the only good thing for us, for we do not die. The chosen ones, I mean. Those two hopes weren''t the chosen seeds, and thus, I wish the same."

    "They had done their purpose and used their bodies to continue this damned bloodline," Abel added, raising the bow and arrow, and taking a stance to shoot the arrow. "How I wished they hadn''t."

    <strong>TAK!</strong>

    The arrow pierced the straw target''s head perfectly, cutting a few straws, whichnded on the grass. Abel slowly turned to face Maximus with a smile.

    "Even so, I wish their attempt to enter an eternal slumber will seed. With your help, of course." His lips stretched subtly, his eyes full of emotions that could be barely seen in his current self. "That is my only request and the purpose of my visit."

    "You are always so kind, Abel." Maximus smiled back subtly. "I also wished they would get the peace they sought in a few days."

    It was no secret in the maind that the Grimsbanne was akin to gods. Although they weren''t being worshiped like an actual god, they were just so powerful everyone respected them. The only reason their existence did not threaten people was that the Grimsbannes weren''t greedy, nor did they seek other things than to live peacefully in their home.

    If there was one thing the Grimsbanne wanted, that was death. Not power, control, or any worldly materials. For them, death was the only escape from the blood running through their veins. Abel already tried seeking it with the help of the king but to no avail.

    He was born to be a holder of the prophecy. His little sister, Mathilda, had also tried because she was stuck on Abel''s shoulder that day. Both of them didn''t die бк although Mathilda didn''t consent to the n because she was toozy to listen or respond or stop Abel from pushing her to her death.

    "We''ll see." Abel rocked his head. "My hopes have already gone down the drain, so all I can do is wish them sess."

    "You''re taking this better than I had expected. Though I am concerned about your sister." Maximus watched Abel shoot another arrow before he continued. "She couldn''t enter an eternal slumber. I hope she''s fine with that."

    Abel looked him dead in the eye. "Do you even think she cares?"

    "Haha! I''m just worried since she might just be bottling her feelings."

    "There''s nothing to bottle up." Abel shrugged, taking another arrow. "That sister of mine always worries me, not because she might do something. The root of my worry is actually the opposite of that. She might not do anything at all that root vines will start to grow on her."

    Maximusughed, knowing this sister of Abel was just too slothful to do anything. It was still a surprise Mathilda was getting out of bed, but Maximus assumed that was because her siblings would force her to get up.

    "So don''t worry about her. The only time she is not alright is when she had to do something or speak for over ten words."<sub> </sub>

    <strong>TAK!</strong>

    Another arrow pierced the straw target, but this time, itnded on Maximus''s target. Noticing this, Maximus''s smile turned upside down.

    "You better pick up your arrow, else you''ll be buying dinner. I''m so tired of eating eggs every single day,"mented Abel, shooting another arrow, determined to have a bountiful dinner as the Grimsbanne were just too poor to have a feast. Or rather, no one in the Grimsbanne can actually cook as they didn''t have servants in their home.

    Although Maximus was Abel''s dearest friend, this would be the fifth day in a row that Abel would be eating in his pce if he won. At this point, all his allowance would be gone, just filling Abel''s appetite.

    As the two have fiercepetition for a ''childish'' reason, Conan was watching those two from the window at the top floor of another pce. He was standing in front of the window, his battered hand on the ss.

    "Brotherбн" he called under his breath, his lips mangled and his face bruised from all the beatingst night. Yet, unlike his miserable situation, Maximus was having a good time with his friend.

    "Why does father favor you so much?" Conan wondered weakly. "Does that Grimsbanne prick know what you truly are?"

    <strong>*********************************** BREAK ******************************************</strong>

    <strong>[ PRESENT TIME ]</strong>

    <strong>BOOOGSH!</strong>

    Conan blinked ever so tenderly, hearing an explosion from the inner pce, particrly from where the banquet was being held. His eyes remained on the person he was standing on, lifting his gaze, only to see countless people scattered on the vast expanse with him the only person on his feet.

    Blood dripped from the tip of his sword, taking out his metal helm slowly. The moment he did, the full view of the vast expanse within the imperial pce grew clearer.

    Carnage.

    "I''m done here," Conan said quietly, looking up in a direction only to see Isaiah standing on top of a tower.

    The raised scars on the back of Isaiah''s hand were glowing, his fingers that were spread trembling. When he sped his hand, the barrier surrounding the area slowly dissipated, revealing countless royal knights running in every direction. As soon as the barrier disappeared, the stench of blood from this massacre pervaded the air.

    "Sir Conan!" A knight snapped Conan''s attention from Isaiah, sprinting to Conan, to report about the situation of the Rose Pce. "Our men had gone to the Rose Pce, and Gustav was injured."

    Conan''s eyes sharpened at the mention of the Rose Pce. "The Marquess?"

    "He''s gone!" the knight yelled in panic. "The Marquess was gone!"

    The second those words rang in Conan''s ears, he disappeared without a trace. When the knight looked up, Isaiah had also disappeared from where he was standing.

    "The formation was distorted," whispered the knight, only for his lips to curl up as his face slowly changed. His eyes turned to a pair of silver and his hair changed to an auburn color.

    <o>,m Javier.</o>

    "Oh, Haimirich," Javier mused with a sinisterugh, looking at the knights around who were so busy to mind someone who wore the same uniform as them. "So much blood бк fun night! It reminds me of that night in Maganti."

    Javier grinned from ear to ear, lifting his hand. The back of his hand suddenly showed a magic circle, almost simr to the scar on the back of Isaiah''s hand.

    "Rise."

    And those Conan had slew slowly moved, rising from the ground, a dark shrouding out of their wounds.

 Chapter 695 Dynasties And Dystopia

    If there was one thing that made the Grimsbanne n different бк aside from the strength and the concentration of their blood бк from then and now was that, they used to live a simpler life. They never interfered with political affairs or even had the slightest interest in other things other than eating something else for breakfast.

    <strong>Just what went wrong? </strong>

    Why did the Originals, who initially didn''t have any worldly desire, had sought things that never crossed them?

    <strong>Rightбн</strong>

    Everything started when those humans washed ashore on the territory of the maind. Particrly when they allowed a human named Soran into their lives. That man nted all these silly ideas not just for the Grimsbanne, but for those young vampires he charmed.

    If not for that man, that human, this chaos wouldn''t even happenбн or would it?

    When Abel sent Maximus flying out of the banquet hall, what came into his sight was a fierce battle of his people against the vampires Maximus brought. If the Haimirich Empire was any bit normal, this would be a one-sided battle, because no one could underestimate the people from the maind.

    Fortunately, the knights in the empire were trained and everyone stationed tonight was a vampire. There were only a few humans exception and one of them was the Empress''s knight, Climaco.

    "What a sight to behold!" Abel mused while flying midair, directly toward Maximus that had yet to crash into anything. "Surely, you never ceased to amaze me, Maximus!"

    <strong>PANG!</strong>

    Maximus brought forth his sword, flinging his arm to toss the hand that wasing at him. Abel''s nails were long and sharp; he was also agile and strong, forcing Maximus to bring out his sword.

    "Didn''t you say you will force my sword, Void, out?" Abel inquired with a tinge of mockery in his tone. "But it seemed it was the other way around."

    A wave of maniacalughter pierced the heavy air that carried the stench of everyone''s blood. Abel continuouslyunched attacks, not giving Maximus a second to breathe or rest. Yet, thetter knew Abel was still ying. When another minute had gone by, Abel finally stopped his attacks,nding on the ground while Maximus plunged his sword into the ground to stop himself from flying further.

    "Funny, isn''t it?" Abel nted his hands on his hips, eyes on Maximus. Thetter was on one knee, holding his sword that was plunged deep into the ground. "People already knew they are no matched to me, yet they keeping at me! I don''t know if I should call that courage or idiocy."

    "Consider it whatever you see fit, my friend." Maximus slowly stood from his knee, pulling out his sword from the ground. "You will never know why people are persistent."

    "Should I say you also have no idea why you are causing this mayhem in mynd?"

    "I am clear of my motives." A subtle smile resurfaced on Maximus'' face. "It is so clear to me that it breaks my heart."

    The corner of Abel''s lips curled up. "How sad."

    "It is sad, indeed." Maximus rocked his head. "There were days I wished things were just as blurry as before. If only they were, we could''ve lived a better life. A peaceful one. Just like that life we used to have on the maind."<sub> </sub>

    "What is peace, Max?" Abel cocked his head to the side, blinking ever so tenderly. "What is a better life? What is home?"

    Maximus repeated Abel''s question in his head, and for each of them, he had a clear answer. However, he didn''t verbally answer them and smiled in response.

    "I found the answers to those questions outside the maind, my friend." Abel moved his shoulder, and with a snap of a finger, gigantic wings came out of his back. "The answer was simple. <strong>Aries.</strong> That is the answer to all those questions."

    "Peace was when I was with her; a life with her was a thousand times better, and her embrace was my home," he continued, keeping his sharp eyes on Maximus. "I don''t think the answers in your head were just as clear as mine, is it, Maximus?"

    "You can say that." Maximus kept his subtle smile. "I do have clear answers in my head, but I am still unsure whether these answers were mine or the answers the crown fed me."

    Abel shook his head, letting out a shallow breath. There was a slight pity that appeared in his eyes, looking at Maximus from head to toe.

    "You were a good friend of mine," whispered Abel, as his eyelids drooped. "And as your friend, I will stop this madness. For you, and for your son, who is trapped inside that body."

    The slight smile on Maximus'' faded at Abel''s remarks.

    "It seemed you had figured it out." Maximus pointed out solemnly. "You truly are sharp, though I am surprised it took you this long to figure that out."

    "You will not be the king if you are anything less, Third." This time, Abel smiled, offering a thin smile at him. "Furthermore, I might''ve left the maind, but I had never forgotten you. After all, you''re the only person who can withstand a Grimsbanne."

    "It took me a while," added Abel, nodding mildly. "That child just wouldn''t say anything, which makes me think she wanted this to happen."

    Maximus smiled again. "That child was an excellent partner."

    "Mhm?" Abel arched a brow, assessing the smirk on Maximus'' face. "What did you tell Tony?"

    "Nothing, really. The question was, what did she tell me?" Maximus smirked, making Abel''s expression turn cold. "The Grimsbannes were funny. I mean, you do not have any familial attachments; you feel no guilt in turning your back on each other!"

    Maximus studied Abel''s expression, only tough out loud. "Great! Great! Your shock expression was amusing." Hisughter then subsided, eyes glinting with murderous intent.

    "That childбн did you think she is your ally? She is wise for her own good, and with that charm of her, it was hard to consider her as an enemy." He shook his head, clicking his tongue continuously. "It''s truly hard to trust, isn''t it, Abel?"

    "Sunny Bloodfang La Crox." Abel''s countenance was cold, assessing the triumphant grin stered on Maximus. "I told you, do not let your name known in my head."

 Chapter 696 Sunny In Danger

    "Sunny Bloodfang La Crox. I told you not to let your name known in my head." Abel shook his head beforeughing with his lips closed. Hisughter immediately took off the smile on Maximus'' face. "I am not angry, but amused. Just what did that child tell you that you will believe her?"

    He cocked his head to the side as the side of his lips hooked up with a sinister grin. "The Grimsbannes, indeed, don''t hold any familial attachment. We do not mind turning to each other if we have enough reason to, but s, that was the case for the Originals."

    "I don''t mind killing Marse. She deserves to die. But death is just too easy for her! I won''t let her vile existence trick me. We will both rot in this hell," he continued. "As for my granddaughter, she is too adorable to get hurt. On top of that, she is just tooбн smart and bad at the same time. She makes me want to kill her parents so I can adopt her."

    A glint flickered in Abel''s eyes as he snickered. "Trustбн surely take guts to give, so I apud you for being generous. Or should I apud her for getting your trust? Or making you believe she''s just another Grimsbanne with an early onset spark of madness?"

    Maximus''s expression died, and in a heartbeat, he disappeared from his vantage point. However, even before he could rush to the Forbidden Mansion, Abel appeared in front of him.

    "What''s the rush, my dear?" Abel''s lips were stretched from ear to ear until his canines were showing. He outstretched his hand, his fingers glinting like des as he added, "we''re not done yet and you hadn''t forced my weapon out of me. The fun had yet started!"

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    <strong>**************************************** BREAK **************************************</strong>

    <strong>[ FORBIDDEN MANSION ]</strong>

    Sunny let out a short yelp, wiping the sweat on her forehead with her arm. Her hand was covered with blood, and a few specks of blood on her chubby cheeks. The side of her lips curled up in satisfaction, straightening her back, still holding the small knife in her small hand.

    "Phew! That wasn''t hard," said Sunny, gazing at the open chest of the man lying motionless on the bed. Her eyes twinkled, watching how the man''s heart beat. "It''s beating so slow бк wowбн so this is what the heart of the king looks like."

    Her smile grew brighter, shifting her eyes to the man''s face. He was still unconscious and hisplexion was paler than usual due to the loss of blood.

    "Shh!" Sunny raised her bloody finger before her lips, shushing the unconscious man. "This won''t hurtбн much. Sunny knows what she''s doing. Don''t worry."

    The mischief in her eyes said otherwise, though. Although she seemed to have an idea of what she was doing, Sunny definitely didn''t know much of the process.

    "Just open his chest," she repeated the instructions she heard from her butler back home without proper practice or example. "See his beating heart, take it out, and then BAM! He''s dead!"

    Sunny suddenly frowned as she repeated the instruction in her head.

    "That''s not what grandpa told me." She blinked, staring at the beating heart, recalling what Abel told her days ago. "Ahhбн open his chest, find the linkбн and then cut it."

    With that thought in mind, her little hand went inside the man''s open chest, searching for whatever link her grandfather had told her. Sunny had no idea what sort of link Abel was talking about. All he said was that she would know about the link if she saw it.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>And Abel was correct.</strong>

    It didn''t take long for Sunny to find a blue vessel that still stood out despite the excessive blood inside the chest and flesh.

    "Aha! This is the link!" She eximed excitedly, holding onto the vessel in between her small thumb and index. She then reached for the small knife to cut it. "I will make the cut now. Hehe."

    Sunny hummed a soft tune as she slipped the de to cut the link that was binding this man to a forced slumber. They could''ve done it in the past, but this was highly risky. Moreover, Abel and Sunny weren''t sure about their spections about the maind and the mysteries the king had kept from everyone.

    They had to be sure, and Maximus'' arrival just confirmed their spections: the king of the maindбн was simply a vessel of someone who didn''t have any form.

    "Cut бк" Sunny stopped from cutting the link as the window suddenly shattered from the outside. She slowly raised her eyes, catching Marse''s figure standing on the windowsill with dirt clinging to her body. This time, however, Sunny''s adorable eyes were reced with contempt and malice.

    "Where''s my pretty grandma?" asked Sunny to Marse, knowing that witch who was living inside the same body seemed to have lost her battle against the real Marse.

    The corner of Marse''s lips stretched from ear to ear, eyes falling on the man lying on the bed. Sunny was kneeling on his side, her hands inside the man''s chest.

    "That''s rude, little demon," said Marse with a smirk. "You shouldn''t be doing that to him."

    "Did youe to stop me, Marse?"

    "No." Marse shook her head, narrowing her eyes until they were partially closed.

    <strong>Evil. </strong>

    That was what Marse looked like with her lips curled up in a sinister smirk, her crimson eyes glinting, and two hornsing out of her head. Her lips parted, licking them, showing the fangs that had grown longer.

    "I am famished, child," came out a dark voice, gazing at the little girl as if she was a sheep she could devour. "But I will not stop you. Iбн will kill you. You understand the reason, right? For helping that wretched Vera hurt me."

    Sunny pursed her lips into a thin line, letting go of the link carefully. Her eyes were fixed on Marse, and as someone clever, Sunny knew her life was in danger. This Marse бк the real Marse бк was the most antagonistic among the Grimsbanne.

    "Youбн" whispered Sunny, as she silently watched Marse leap in her direction. "... will anger many people, Marse."

 Chapter 697 Run

    <strong>[ Minutes before the present time ]</strong>

    "I''m going to kill that damned bastard," Marse grumbled through her gritted teeth, barely able to put up a space between the soil and her face. Abel buried her with an open coffin, and she had suffocated to death thrice!

    <strong>Yes, thrice! </strong>Did he have any idea of the consequences of each of her deaths?

    "Heh. Let''s just kill them all," Marse suddenly added, but with a different mocking tone.

    "Shut up, will you!?" she yelled at herself, or at the other tenant of this body. "This is all your fault. If you didn''t provoke him or if you behaved бк ugh! Forget it! I''m going to kill you someday and have tons of sex with my handsome husband."

    Marse frowned as she stared at the soil inches over her face. Sadness and longing filled one eye, but the other eye rolled.

    "Just choose between my family," Marse told herself. "They will dly bed you."

    "Shut it!" Marse closed her eyes, forcing the other one that was being controlled by the real Marse to close. "Just what is it in that man you are so obsessed with him? I mean, that man only wished for your death."

    <strong>''His expressions are good. Especially every time I kill his wife and children,''</strong> a voice answered in her head, but she was too used to this now that she wasn''t surprised.

    Vera, the woman who had been fighting Marse, for this body only wished for Aries to awaken her true powers. Aries was her only hope of defeating this Marse Grimsbanne. This woman was just too persistent and annoying. Above all, the real Marse had no notion of emotions.

    The only thing that Marse cared about was the things that would amuse her. She would even kill Abel if that would amuse her enough.

    <strong>''I can''t let her out here,'' </strong>Vera thought, only to hear Marse''s sarcastic response.

    "I can hear you, dear. We share the same body."

    <strong>''May this woman die a cruel death.''</strong>

    <strong>''I don''t think my death will be just as cruel as yours,''</strong> said Marse in a knowing tone. <strong>''If I die, I''ll only die once. But you died multiple times already. If that isn''t cruel, perhaps there''s even more cruel death that exists then. Though, I can''t think of anything worse than that. Care to share any ideas to expand my knowledge in this word cruel we are talking about?''</strong>

    Vera kept her eyes closed, breathing in and out carefully. At this point, her mental health was already numbed in Marse''s continuousints and ramblings. One would surely get used to this type of conversation after living in the same body with a psycho like her for quite some time. Or perhaps it would drive someone crazy.

    Good thing they were both crazy.

    "Marse." Vera slowly opened her eyes. "What would you do if you gained control over this body?"

    "Are you seriously asking me that?" the voice in her head replied. "I will kill Maleficent. After all, she''s the only one who can kill a Grimsbanne."

    "And how will you kill her?"

    "Hmmбн if I tell you, you''ll stop me, would you?"

    "Then forget I even asked."

    "Awwбн why do you give up so easily?" Even though Vera couldn''t see the voice in her head, she could imagine Marse frowning. "You''re no fun anymore, Vera."

    "Shut up."

    Marse sighed. "Fine. I''ll tell you."

    "I don''t want to hear it."

    "I hate you!"

    "And I don''t care."<sub> </sub>

    "I''ll kill you."

    "I hope you do before I kill myself."

    "Tch." Marse clicked her tongue. This time, she managed to control the body and push back Vera. They had been exchanging control over this body ever since Abel buried her. Hence, Vera didn''t mind. They were buried and sealed, so nothing could go wrong for as long as this body was within this coffin.

    "The king!" Marse answered sweetly. "He will help me kill her. We made a promise in the past, you know. If only you search my memories, you''ll understand all the things I did."

    "I''m not interested." This time, the voice in her head had Vera''s voice. "I''ve already rummaged through your memories, and I can only gag. It''s disgusting, really."

    "You are so rude, you know?"

    "Sucks. You have to live with me for as long as I live." Vera yawned. Despite being a soul within this body, she could still feel exhaustion because the other soul inside this body was a powerful monster. No one should underestimate the real Marse. She was a real nutcase. And if Vera lowered her guard even for a second, Marse would just devour her soul.

    Marse stared at the soil before her, and Vera took charge of the body when she blinked.

    <strong>''You know, Vera, you shouldn''t try so hard to take control of this body. This body is originally mine.''</strong>

    "But it''s not chasing me out," she repliedzily.

    <strong>''Trueбн'' </strong>Marse rocked her head, and when she blinked again, Marse took charge.

    Vera, the other soul inside, popped her eyes open. She tried taking charge but to no avail. She felt caged in the dark expanse within this body. Marse''s defenses and control were stronger than before. Or rather, Vera had just grown weaker after dying over and over and over.

    "Vera, Vera. This body is not chasing you out because it''s just a shell," exined Marse, noticing a crack in the soil inches from her face. "I learned that rest is productive. Isn''t that the reason we are in this situation? No matter how strong you are, therees a time you have to rest."

    The side of her lips curled up into a sinister smirk as the soil over her was shoved away. "I will take charge of this body in the meantime. You can watch what I will do from these very eyes, or enjoy reading the memories you are so disgusted with. After all, I always had ns for setbacks, knowing my siblings exist and this blood continues."

    As soon as those words rolled out of Marse''s tongue, a pair of silver eyes met hers. The person looking back at her smirked, and in one swift movement, the person ripped the coffin''s lid.

    "It''s nice to see you again, Marse." The man offered his hand to her. "It''s been a while."

    "It has been, Javier Imperial." Marse reached for his hand, allowing him to pull her out of the coffin, and break the chains cast upon her. "You''ve done a good job finding Maleficent a host."

    Javier tilted his head down slightly. "She''s perfect. Although we have a problem бк"

    Javier halted when Marse suddenly raised a hand to stop him from talking. She slowly gazed up and smirked.

    "That is not nice, child," murmured Marse and after a second, she disappeared from her vantage point, only for the windows of the Forbidden Mansion to shatter. "You will not mess with my ns."

    When Marse''s eyes met Sunny''s, thetter asked, "where''s my pretty grandma?"

    The corner of Marse''s lips curled up into a sinister smirk. Staring at the child, one could tell Marse would hurt the little girl.

    <strong>''Sunny!''</strong> Vera, who was seeing Sunny from inside Marse, screamed,<strong> ''RUN!''</strong>

    <strong>****</strong>

    NOTE: IF ANYONE WAS CONFUSED MARSELLA''s BODY HAS 2 DIFFERENT SOULS. THEY WERE NOT THE SAME PEOPLE. I USUALLY USE "MARSELLA" IN THE NARRATION FROM THE BEGINNING TO MAKE IT LESS CONFUSING. BUT A CONVERSATION BETWEEN THE TWO SOULS, I DECIDED TO USE THEIR REAL NAMES.

    Vera = the person who trained Aries.

    Marse = is the real sister of Abel.

 Chapter 698 Twisted

    <strong>[ ROSE PALACE ]</strong>

    Conan reached for the bloodstain on the creased sheet, rubbing his fingers against each other. Dexter was nowhere in sight and everyone in the Rose Pce was scattered around, unconscious.

    "It''s still fresh," whispered Conan, peeling his eyes from the empty bed to the person who had just arrived at the marquess''s chambers.

    <strong>Isaiah. </strong>

    "He is not here," Conan announced the obvious while Isaiah''s eyes fixed on the empty bed. "They hadn''t gone that far."

    Isaiah kept his mouth shut, lifting his eyes to Conan''s countenance. Both of them stared at each other solemnly. Soon, knights came rushing from behind Isaiah as thetter stood by the door. They didn''t say anything before Isaiah faced the knights, bearing his usual in expression.

    "Find the marquess," he ordered calmly. "Someone had him and see if there''s anyone who in the empress''s knighthood brigade is alive. Take them all to the infirmary."

    "Yes, Your Grace!" The two knights who were leading the group faced each other and nodded, passing the order to the rest, and they immediately executed it. The Rose Pce was bad бк terrible even.

    "Hahбн" Conan ran his fingers through his copper hair, chuckling for no reason. "See? I told you. Something like this will happen."

    Isaiah nced over his shoulder, his expression still stern. "Get yourself together."

    "I amбн normal."

    "You''re not. You''re never normal," was all Isaiah said as he took a step away from the chambers. "That knight isn''t as well."

    The side of Conan''s lips curled up into a smirk as his eyes narrowed until they were partially closed. His canines slowly grew longer.

    "Of course, he isn''t, but who cares about the Imperials when there''s a Grimsbannes who is far better to have a showdown with?"

    Isaiah''s steps faltered until they stopped. Looking back inside the chambers, Conan was already gone from the position he was standing on. His eyes slowly raised to the open window, watching how the curtain on the side move from the mild wind.

    "See?" A shallow breath slipped past Isaiah. "Something like this will happen."

    Isaiah shook his head slightly, peeling his eyes away from the window, and resumed his strides. Unlike the hurried footsteps that were resonating across the imperial pce, his steps were soundless. His demeanor was calm and his expression in.

    "The king," came out of his lips quietly. "The Grimsbanne and Maleficent."

    <strong>Who would stand alive tonight?</strong>

    <strong>************************************** BREAK ***************************************</strong>

    Sunny was born and raised on the maind. Her life back there was just as normal as others; she had loving parents, a peaceful home, and skilled teachers who her parents trusts so much. In her parent''s eyes, she was their princess, their sunshine, and their sweet daughter.

    But Sunny was never normal. Even before she learned how to speak, her thoughts had already developed. One subject she got interested in, aside from witchcraft, which she called alchemy, was the mysteries of the maind бк particrly the king.

    Sunny had always wondered why the king looked a little strange. The king of the maind was known to be kind, generous, and righteous. But s, after observing the royal pce from her room in her home, Sunny thought otherwise.

    In her eyes, the king was unforgiving, especially to his family. He was a wise king, but a terrible father. Her grandmother, Mathilda, would asionally visit the king, and when Sunny asked about her thoughts about the king, she would simply reply, "pitiful."<sub> </sub>

    That word had always left a question mark on the little girl''s head. Even so, knowing the king was her grandmother''s friend, Sunny went out of her way to save him from the uprising on the maind. Initially, she did it for her grandmother, but the longer she stayed in Haimirich and talked to Abel, Sunny''s curiosity was piqued.

    What did Abel know that nobody didn''t? Abel never told her everything directly. He wasn''t that type. Although he was verbal to admit everything in his head was simply spection without confirmation. So, Sunny had to figure it out herself and shended on one strong conclusion.

    The king of the maindбн never changed.

    The first king was also the second, the third, and the fourth.

    There was no knowledge or will that was passed on. It was the soul of the first king to take the body of his kin so he could live. In other words, the royal family was simply sacrifices, people this soul could choose from to take the best host.

    No wonder the members of the royal family were trained so strictly. They need to be in the best shape so this soul could unleash his maximum potential.

    But what Sunny didn''t expect was that someone from the Grimsbanne seemed to have figured that out before her. Of all the members of the Grimsbanne to hold this information, why did it have to be Marse?

    "That is not nice, child." Sunny held her breath as soon as she met Marse''s eyes. "You will not mess with my ns."

    "Where''s my pretty grandma?" Sunny inquired, unable to detect the witch that was initially upying that body.

    "That''s rude, little demon. You shouldn''t be doing that to him."

    Sunny nced at her bloody hands shortly that were inside the man''s open chest. "Did youe to stop me?"

    "No," was Marse''s answer, but Sunny already filled the rest of that sentence.

    Marse didn''te to stop her, but she came to end her. Those crimson eyes shining so fiercely told Sunny to run, but the little girl stayed where she was. Running was pointless, she thought, Marse was an Original Grimsbanne, and there was no ce in hell that Sunny could run to protect herself.

    "I am famished, child. But I will not stop you. Iбн will kill you. You understand the reason, right? For helping that wretched Vera hurt me."

    "You will anger many people, Marse," whispered Sunny, watching Marse fly at her with murderous intent. Sunny didn''t blink and remained calm. "Grandpa told me to stay where I was if dangeresбн"

    <strong>BOOGSH!</strong>

    Sunny blinked ever so tenderly as a thunderous sound pped in her ears, moving her gaze to the thick smoke from the hole in the wall.

    "... I''m d grandpa always keeps his promise." She heaved a sigh of relief, staring at the hole that appeared on the wall where Marse and another figure crashed into.

    <strong>Outside the forbidden mansion</strong>, Marse rolled on the green expanse until she stopped on her knee, a palm on the ground. She slowly raised her head, and the side of her lips curled up into a grin.

    "Conan," she called maliciously while Conan raised his chin, eyes down.

    "Marse Grimsbanne." Conan smirked. "Tell that witch inside you I give no guarantee she will redeem that body in one piece."

    Marse simpered. "How exciting!"

    Both stared at each other for a second before a powerful gust of wind exploded upon shing in the middle.

 Chapter 699 You Havent Seen What A Grimsbanne Can Actually Do

    <strong>[ INNER PALACE ]</strong>

    The fight between Abel and Maximus raged on, leaping from space to space. The sparks each time they shed were the only thing that one could catch in the fight. When another piercing sound of metals shing against each other resonated, both of themnded meters away from each other.

    Abel looked away, gazing toward the Forbidden Mansion. His attention was caught when Maximus''sughter caressed his ears.

    "Among the Grimsbanne, Marse is the only person who really deserves to carry that cursed blood," Maximus mused, his lips stretched from ear to ear. "Trust is surely hard to give, isn''t it, my friend? You always act so strong and nonchnt, yet it is hrious to think you have a soft side for your family."

    "I''ve said it before. We do not have any familial attachments бк"

    "Say whatever you want, my friend." Maximus simpered. "But you and I know you care about them one way or another."

    Abel''s eyes narrowed as his shoulders rxed. "I guess I shouldn''t deny that anymore. Whatever makes you happy, my dear."

    Maximus smirked, assessing the stony countenance of Abel. Thetter had always spoken about not having any familial attachments from then until now, but knowing Abel, if he truly didn''t have the slightest care for his little sister, Marse, that woman had been long dead.

    "Familyбн is surely such a strange thing, isn''t it?" Maximus cocked his head to the side. "Family is supposed to offer support and security, coupled with unconditional love. But there were many times those people who carried the same blood as ours will be our greatest enemy."

    "You and I are really friends. Perhaps this was the reason," he continued with a yful smile. "Regardless of what they had done, we try to forgive them. We give them wings to fly, but they cut them and me us. We give them all the opportunity we could give, open multiple doors, yet they turn away and curse you for not being equal."

    "They expect us to carry the responsibility of why they didn''t grow. And in the end, they wille at us with their fangs. Yet, we forgive them бк it''s tiring," he added andughed dryly. "I am done forgiving and hiding, acting like a good king, and enduring the title of being a servant of the Grimsbanne."

    "Is that why youбн connived with Marse?"

    "Marse is a strange woman, but overall, matches my goal."

    "And that goal is?"

    Maximus smiled and didn''t give him an answer. Instead, he hummed a long tune, recalling when everything started.

    "It''s been a very long time ago," said Maximus, setting his eyes back to Abel. "I think it all started when Ameria left the Grimsbanne stronghold. Oh no, I think it all started with that manбн Soran."

    A thickeryer of frost coated Abel''s eyes at the mention of histe sister, Ameria, and his dearest human friend, Soran. Everyone had already heard about Abel''s story and the reason he left the maind.<sub> </sub>

    That man named Soran, who was one of the humans that was washed ashore in the maind''s territory, nted ideas in the Grimsbannes'' minds. He was a strange man, but overall, a good one. Abel looked up at that man and went out on an adventure outside to see the beauty of the world Soran had been talking about.

    Obviously, Abel was in for a disappointment. It waste when he realized Soran had a beautiful perspective on the world because he was a wonderful person. He was someone who always looked at the good instead of the bad.

    Abel wasn''t the only person who was fascinated by Soran''s nature. His sister, Ameria, left the maind with her friends бк who came from powerhouse ns on the maind бк to find Soran. It was safe to say the reason there were powerful pureblooded vampires outside the maind was because of that man.

    They all went out to find him or see the beautiful world they created in their imagination.

    The maind was never the same after weing that man, Soran.

    And thus, the reason some people held a grudge against him.

    One of them was Marse and Maximus.

    "I remember Marse came to visit Ameria," Maximus mused. "Although I don''t think they met, I''m sure Ameria had an idea why her life took a tragic turn. I don''t think she told anyone, though. After all, your family lived on the maind with Mathilda. They have no idea."

    Another short wave ofughter escaped his lips. "They have no idea, which means Ameria is just as foolish as his big brother. She is just as soft as you whenever family was involved, and she probably didn''t want you to turn against the youngest."

    "Oh, Grimsbanne! What lovely creatures you are!" he continued with a tinge of sarcasm. "A born monster, but trying so hard to fight what you are. This is why Marse is different. She embraced her monster from the beginning and loathed you lots of hypocrites who condemned her for it!"

    "Condemnбн" Abel whispered, keeping his silence while listening to Maximus''s nonsense prattling. "Maximus, you speak as though you knew each of us. I cannot deny everything you had said, for there were some truths in it. However, those are the only indicators of what the Grimsbanne were."

    "Ameria was the kindest person I had known until now, yet you are calling her a monster just because of this cursed blood we carry." He slowly raised both his hands to the side, blood dripping from the tip of his fingers. "As a vampire, you should''ve thought at least once, after gazing into the elegance of the day and the blinding light of the divinity. Howe your purpose was anything but darkness?"

    The blood dripping from Abel''s fingertips didn''tnd on the ground. Instead, it slowly formed into a shape of a sword underneath his palms.

    "You disappoint me, Maximus." His eyes squinted as dark veins crawled from his temple to his eyes. "For underestimating Ameria. You don''t know her just as much as I do, and she isn''t as soft as you think she is. She does things for a reason, and keeping Marse''s involvement in her misfortune a secret isn''t to protect Marse."

    "It''s to protect this world from the Grimsbanne." Abel sped the red and dark sword and, in a sh, reappeared in front of Maximus. Thetter''s eyes slowly dted as time slowed down in his perspective. "Youбн haven''t seen what a Grimsbanne can actually do, unlike her."

    <strong>SLASH!</strong>

 Chapter 700 Ameria Grimsbanne

    <strong>[ FLASHBACK ]</strong>

    A woman was leaning against the railing of the terrace. The House of Grimsbanne was surrounded by trees, established in the vast clearing. There was not any good view to watch, but somehow, the woman was smiling as if she was seeing more than the darkness of the night.

    "You look happy." Her brother''s voiceing from behind disrupted her peace. "Did you peek into the future again?"

    The woman nced back and chuckled, watching her big brother, Abel, join her on the terrace.

    "Guess what I saw." Her lips stretched even wider while Abel leaned his side against the railing.

    "Mhm." He hummed, assessing the bright smile on her beautiful face. "No idea, but that smile piqued my interest. Mind sharing, what''s there in the future?"

    "Destruction." Ameria, thedy with long virgin ck hair, peeled her eyes from him and looked ahead. "The Grimsbanne will wreak havoc. You... you three in particr."

    "You seem happy about that."

    "That''s not what made me happy." A weak chuckle slipped past her shut lips. "I''m d I saw it and knew the cause. Thus, there''s a solution to stop it."

    Abel shook his head, setting his eyes on the thick darkness surrounding the forbidden forest. "Ameria, stop looking into the future for something so nonsense. Knowing what''s ahead takes out the fun of tomorrow."

    "Fun is not the only thing that tomorrow brings. There''s also fear and uncertainty."

    "But that is the order of the world, sister."

    "That is why I peek to keep that order." Ameria looked back at him with a yful grin. "I don''t want my family to be in danger."

    "We are not in danger."

    "The moment we are born, we''re already in danger, Abel. The time this blood came into existence, danger was born. Can be for us or for this world. It is just a matter of time."

    "You think too much," was what he said, but he couldn''t deny her ims. What Ameria said was true. Their existence was a threat to this world, and this world was a threat to them because everyone just wanted their cursed bloodline to disappear.

    They thought without the Grimsbanne, the world was a better ce. <strong>How unfair.</strong>

    "Abel, what do you think about Marse?" she asked after a moment of silence, making his brow arch. Ameria slowly turned her head and tilted her head to the side. "Hmm?"

    "Nothing." He shrugged. "I think she is pitiful for even existing. Just like you and me. Hopefully, she dies."

    "Death... is not the only way out, Abel."

    "You will not bend my beliefs."

    "I''m not trying to bend it. You''ve lived longer than I did and have seen many things on the maind. I''m just d you liked Soran." She chuckled and looked away. "I like Soran, though I wished we never met him."

    "Hah... that''s new." His brows rose, and curiosity was apparent in his eyes.

    Everyone liked Soran, and Ameria was one of those who would stick around the man every day. For Ameria to say this only meant she saw something in the future that she wished to not happen.

    "Silly thing about this gift is that I cannot change the past. I can only change the future if I interfere in the present," she said under her breath, bitterness filling her eyes. "I want to say how I wished I had chased Soran away, but he is a very kind man. Deep in my heart, I am d to be his friend."<sub> </sub>

    "You are so changeable, Ameria."

    "Haha. I like everyone." Ameria faced him again, bearing the brightest and the most beautiful smile Abel had seen. He never thought anyone could smile like this, but ever since she was born, this house was just never the same boring and dull one.

    "You''re abnormal."

    "You keep saying that just because I often choose kindness."

    "No, I keep saying that because you always choose others before you."

    Ameria shook her head while her smile was cemented on her face. "Perhaps that is my purpose."

    "Purpose, huh?" Abel pressed his lips into a thin line, pondering about this word, purpose. "What a strange word."

    "Fun fact!" she pped all of a sudden while her lips stretched even broader. "Guess who I am going to marry."

    "You will marry? No. Some fool will fall for you?"

    "What is that tone?" she frowned, scrunching her nose up. "I am a woman -- a beautifuldy. So it shouldn''t surprise you I would have a husband someday."

    Ameria looked at him in disappointment, shaking her head once again. "I''ll marry the man I fancy."

    "You fancy a man?" Abel gasped weakly, in disbelief at what he was hearing from his younger sister.

    "Mhm. The young Lord of the Vonstein n." Ameria giggled happily as her cheeks blushed. "In the future, we would have beautiful children and live a simple life in the woods."

    "Hah... I guess you will never leave the woods."

    "It''s nice to know what my choices will lead me." She lowered her head until her chin was resting on her arms. "Even if just a glimpse, I know if I keep doing what I was doing, I will have a good life."

    "A good life with a Vonstein..." Abel hummed a long, dull tune, assessing the corner of her eyes. "Whatever makes you happy, sister."

    Her eyes softened. "I won''t marry him."

    "Huh?"

    "I fancy Jarvis, and I''m d he will cherish me in the future. At least, I''ve seen the two of us together." Ameria kept her soft eyes ahead, and this time, Abel finally noticed something amiss.

    "Why would the Grimsbanne bring destruction, Ameria? What is it in the future you saw?"

    Ameria didn''t respond for a minute before she looked back at him. Her lips curled up subtly, gazing at him with genuine affection and respect. Abel knew her, and knowing her, Ameria was someone who would sacrifice her own happiness for others.

    She was selfless, and that was the only thing he hated about her. An angel lost in hell and was deemed evil. Ameria was not evil, but the blood running in her veins said otherwise.

    "Don''t hate Marse too much, Abel. She needs salvation, not condemnation. Try to understand her as her big brother."

 Chapter 701 Welcome To Their Playground

    <strong>[ PRESENT TIME ]</strong>

    That was thest time Abel had a conversation with his little sister, Ameria, because dayster, she snuck out of the maind with her ''<strong>friends.''</strong> ording to the letter she left, Ameria went out to find Soran because he hadn''t returned since he left theirnd.

    Knowing Ameria and those young nobles who left with her, the elders assumed it was just a foolish choice each of them didn''t have second thoughts about. But deep in Abel''s bones, he knew Ameria has a reason for leaving the maind with those young lords from the powerhouses in thend.

    All of those who came with her were heirs or heiresses. She had a n and no one would know what it was actually since she perished as someone else''s wife.

    Maximus let out a yelp as Abel finally cornered him. Landing on his back with a thud, two swords on either side of him impaled into the ground, Maximus gazed at the thin pair of eyes hovering over him. Abel had his foot on Maximus'' chest, his other foot on the side.

    Unlike the usual fierceness in his eyes bearing his weapons, his eyes bore bitterness and sadness at the thought of his sister.

    "She diedбн" whispered Abel without meeting Maximus''s eyes. "And you have the audacity to speak her name as if you knew her."

    He lifted his eyes ever so slowly, meeting Maximus''s wicked eyes. "How I wished I visited her before her release. In that case, I would''ve heard a differentst word." бк although deep in his heart, he knew his sister would tell him the same words she uttered before fleeing the maind.

    <strong>Do not hate Marse too much.</strong>

    "If she can see the future, she should know that my current self is not the same Abel as she used to know." Abel pulled out the sword that was plunged into the ground. "Hatredбн runs deep into my bones."

    Maximus'' breath hitched as Abel raised the des, its tip pointing in between his eyes. "Iбн will kill Marse after you бк"

    Abel swung his sword down to end Maximus, only to feel a force from his side before the tip of the des reached the space between Maximus'' eyes. With a loud boom, Abel was sent flying to the side, making Maximus breathe a sigh of relief.

    "Ughбн" Abel rolled over the ground until he was able to stop his crash. Kneeling several meters from Maximus''s position, he nced up to see the figure standing near Maximus. "Marse."

    "Hello there, my brother dear." Marse flipped her hair and her eyes fell on Maximus. "How pathetic, Max."

    Maximus ground his teeth at the ridicule swirling in Marse''s eyes. He grunted, propping his elbow against the ground to sit up. Abel''s other sword was still plunged deep into the ground beside Maximus, reaching across his shoulder to fix his broken bone.

    "He''s a Grimsbanne," said Maximus. "Would I need your help if I can take down the Grimsbanne that easily? I have yet gathered a portion of myself in that old body."

    "What old body?" Suddenly, Conan''s voice was heard not far away. His eyes were sharp, watching Maximus cast him a look. Conan stood from the other direction opposite Abel while Marse and Maximus were in the middle.

    "What is he doing here?" asked Maximus while holding his brother''s eyes.

    "Well, that boy is troublesome." Marse scratched her head nonchntly, setting her eyes back on Abel. "I''m done with him. After all, I don''t think you will survive in a duel against that monster."

    Marse licked her lips. "He is mine to kill."

    Maximus red at Marse, but couldn''t argue with her. He had already given his all, but Abel didn''t even have a scratch. Although Maximus had a reason and was in a weaker state because of the issue regarding the transfer of the host, he didn''t dwell on it to prolong a conversation with her.<sub> </sub>

    Instead, Maximus turned his head in Conan''s direction. "He was the perfect vessel. Sadly, he was, indeed, a silly one."

    "Don''t kill him." Marse hissed, watching Abel rise to his feet and open his free hand, making the sword plunged beside Maximus fly back to his grip. "That body is just too pathetic."

    Maximus smirked, keeping his gaze on Conan. "His face isn''t terrible as well. I can live with that."

    Maximus slowly rose to his feet, standing back-to-back with Marse, facing Conan. Marse, on the other hand, kept her undivided attention on Abel. Both Abel and Conan stared at their siblings without a shred of familial attachment.

    "Marse, one question." Abel spun his swords once, lifting his chin up. "Why did you ruin Ameria''s ns?"

    "Why?" Marse chuckled with her lips closed. "Because Ameria is just too happy. It makes me feel terrible that she is living a good life while the rest of us suffer."

    Abel rocked his head. Her answer was enough, he thought. He didn''t need to hear more. After all, he was simply trying to get a confirmation. Abel had already guessed that much shallow reason for Marse to mess with others.

    <strong>Envy. </strong>

    A precursor to wrath.

    What a dangerous seed that could slip past into people''s hearts, if not vignt enough.

    "What a pitiful creature you had be, Marse." Abel blinked ever so tenderly while Marse charge in his direction. "Come. I will make youment my name."

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    Maximus smirked at the explosions of auraing from Abel and Marse. His eyes were still fixed on Conan, gazing at thetter from head to toe. He snapped his eyes up when Conan spoke.

    "So it was true?" asked Conan, making Maximus''s brow raise. "Sunny and Abel''s spections. It is true?"

    "Heh. Does that matter, my brother?"

    "Yesбн" Conan breathed out, gripping his sword until it trembled. Maximus just simpered, and that was enough for Conan to understand the drastic change in his father and brother back then. Whoever was inside that body and mirroring him through those wicked eyes was the one at fault. He was the source of their suffering and misfortune.

    "You will note out of here alive, you." Conan drew a breath as calmness reced the fury in his eyes. The corner of his lips curled up while Maximus narrowed his eyes, looking around, only to hear the orchestra from the banquet hall.

    "That guy, Joaquinбн and that other one." A glint flickered across Conan''s eyes. "Are far too fragile to stand against that insufferable warlock."

    "Marse бк!" Maximus shouted, only to bite his tongue to block Conan''s attack.

    "Toote, brother," Conan smirked. "Wee to our yground."

 Chapter 702 Youre Welcome

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    Isaiah sauntered through the empty and silent hallway leisurely. His steps slowly came to a halt, turning his head to the window on his left. The ce outside the pce was quiet; there were no knights fighting to death nor there was a heavy stench of blood in the air.

    It was just quiet бк unnaturally quiet.

    A shallow breath slipped past Isaiah, resuming his strides without a trace of a hurry. He would get to his destination, anyway. Even so, Isaiah listened to every noise he could hear through the thin walls lest he had to make an important decision.

    As Isaiah waltzed through the hallway, his steps once again stopped. His brows slightly rose and deep lines appeared in between his brows.

    "I knew it," he whispered, looking at another window on the wall again. "So that''s how it was done."

    This time, Isaiah idled, facing the window. He held his wrist on his back, tapping it, eyes in the direction of the banquet hall.

    "He''s not there, thoughбн" he drew his lips into a thin line, wondering where this person he was searching for was hiding. "He could''ve been a great necromancerбн if only he chose the right people to surround himself for proper growth."

    <strong>************************************** BREAK **************************************</strong>

    <strong>[ BANQUET HALL ]</strong>

    Aries was sitting down on the chair she originally sat on, sharing the table with Abel and Maximus. Her breathing was growing slower and heavier, barely keeping her eyes open.

    "Hahбн" she breathed out heavily, her nosebleed dropping continuously on herp. "No, not yetбн"

    Aries trailed off as she heard the loud creak of the door ahead. She slowly lifted her gaze, and despite her blurring vision, she could see a figure standing by the door.

    "Youбн" came under her breath, noticing the bright auburn hair of the man. She couldn''t see him properly as her vision was blurry, but based on the man''s statue, physique, and that long auburn hair, Aries recognized him almost immediately.

    <strong>Joaquin. </strong>

    His light footsteps caressed her ears, and each time, they sounded clearer and more distinct. She slowly raised her head when his shadow stretched over her, standing before the banquet table that was separating the two.

    "Whatбн" Aries blinked ever so weakly, panting for air, gripping the armrest. "What are you doing here?"

    Joaquin kept quiet, staring at her paleplexion. Her nose was bleeding profusely, and even if he strike her right now, she wouldn''t be able to fight back.

    "Youбн look pathetic," he pointed out, balling his hand into a tight fist. "Do you understand I can kill you right now without breaking a sweat?"

    "Why don''t you do it?" she taunted under her breath, making himugh dryly.

    "Do you think I won''t do it?" he asked, raising his hand toward her neck. "Every single day, Aries. Every single day I cursed your name and wish you suffer a thousand times."<sub> </sub>

    Joaquin''s hand trembled as it approached her neck while she sat still, keeping her chin up. When he wrapped his fingers around her slender neck, his grip didn''t tighten. Instead, he simply held her neck as his lips quivered.

    "Is thisбн the life you''re living?" his voice muffled as his eyes turned bloodshot, angry, yet doing nothing but speak. "What were you doing all this time while I was suffering?"

    Out of anger, Joaquin grabbed her shoulders and pulled her up with all his might.

    "How is this better than Maganti or Rikhill, Aries?!" he roared, gripping her shoulders while grinding his teeth. "They are slowly killing you!"

    "What are you saying?" Aries weakly breathed out, blinking, until her vision grew clearer. "What are you doing?"

    His breath hitched until his neck turned taut. "What am I doing?"

    "Didn''t youe here to kill me?" Aries blinked weakly. "Why do you sound like you''re about to cry?"

    "I бк" Joaquin opened his mouth, but his voice was stuck in his throat.

    <strong>That was right.</strong> He came here to kill her. He came to make her suffer. But s, the second heid his eyes on her, the grudge and anger he had bottled every second inside that dungeon disappeared without a trace. All he felt was his longing to hold her, embrace her, and the desire to take her away from here.

    "Iбн missed you," he whispered, loosening his grip on her shoulders. "Let''s go far away from here, Aries. Let''s forget about the past and live somewhere far away from all this chaos, far from these thrones and rules, and away from everything."

    His brows rose, forcing a smile out. "Don''t live like this anymore, love. This is enough, and you got to rest."

    Aries studied his eyes, which were coated with a thinyer of tears, asking her sincerely to leave this ce with him. There was a part of her that wondered what made Joaquin think she would agree. After all that he had done to her, what made him think she would trust him?

    But the dominant part of her brain, however, understood him one way or another. Joaquin was a man who believed in what he believe and stick to it regardless if it was wrong or right. For someone like him, hating her was far more difficult than deluding himself and believing in this love that caused his downfall. Because if Joaquin admitted this love was simply his own greed, it also meant his downfall was his own cause, not hers.

    A person to me and a reason. That was Aries to him. That was his concept of love.

    "At this point, I don''t feel sick about this anymore," she murmured, pping his hands away from her shoulder weakly. "I have always known I have a ce in hell, and that was the throne. If I were you, leave this ce before they return. I can''t stop you right now, but I will chase you to the ends of the world to put you back in that dungeon myself. You have a head start, go."

    His face scrunched as his heart clenched in bitterness, watching her rest her palms on the table to stop herself from falling.

    "You say that in such a stateбн" his voice was low and shaking, making her raise her head. "I''m not going anywhere without you, Aries Aime Heathcliffe."

    "Aries Grimsbanne. That''s my name now."

    His heart swelled with the unspeakable anger he held toward Abel; a man worse than him. Drown with sudden jealousy of how she speak her husband''s name, which she now carried, Joaquin grabbed her biceps again.

    "You wille with me whether or not you want to," he announced through his gritted teeth. "Thank meter. You''re wee."

 Chapter 703 Who Is The Maddest Of Them All? II

    <strong>[ FLASHBACK ]</strong>

    Joaquin grunted, curling his body into a ball as hey on the cold ground of his cell. They would usually chain him, but there were days they wouldn''t. Those days were usually the days Joaquin would go through hell and, even without the bounds, there was no way he could get out.

    Abel was hell.

    The emperor of the Haimirich Empire was crazy. A highly intelligent, insane person who could pretend he was normal. No one had seen the real Abel because those who did were either dead or locked up in their own oubliette. There were a few selected individuals who had seen Wrath: Conan, Isaiah, Dexter, and a few others, but those people had a biased opinion.

    <strong>''I''m going to kill him someday.''</strong> There wasn''t a day Joaquin fail to pledge to settle scores with Abel.

    Joaquin lost everything because of Abel. He lost Maganti; he lost his life and his woman. It was all Abel''s fault; the fact that Joaquin couldn''t believe the most was that Abel was the same as him. Matter of fact, Abel was worse than Joaquin. And yet, people forgive him.

    Abel had done horrendous and unspeakable crimes, stealing other people''s rights, and yet, he was out there living his life. Meanwhile, Joaquin was jailed and tortured every single day of his life to the point that even breathing had been torture to him as well.

    "Ariesбн" whispered Joaquin, staring at the concrete wall. "... love."

    Joaquin blinked weakly, and as he did, Aries''s image came into sight. She was sitting in the corner; her body was bruised and her eyes were nk. She was hugging her knees, and half of her lower face blocked her by her knees. Both of them looked miserable.

    "Now you understand," she said, lifting her head until her chin was resting on her knees. "It''s hard, right? To be locked here, to get your freedom stolen from you. That''s just a portion of my hell, Joaquin."

    "There wasn''t a single day I don''t wish to kill you. In fact, each and every second of my life, I thought of different ways to kill you," she continued, narrowing her eyes until they were partially closed. "You deserved this, Joaquin."

    Despite her cruel remarks, Joaquin''s eyes only bore sadness and longing. He was probably gone insane, he thought, that instead of anger, all he wanted was to embrace her.

    "Are you happy now?" he asked, his lips mangled and unable to move a muscle from all the beating he went through.

    "Hmm?"

    "While I suffer here, are you happy out there, Aries?" he repeated, this time much clearer.

    Aries pursed her lips while holding his gaze. The slight hesitation in her eyes was something unclear, but since she was an illusion created by him, Joaquin believed what he wanted to believe with her silence.

    "You better be happy," he said under his breath, crawling his hand to where she was with every bit of his energy. "You better be happy, Aries."

    Her eyes fell on his hand that was stretching towards her coldly. She slowly raised her eyes to meet his desperate eyes.

    "Why?" she inquired softly. "Why do I need to be happy just because you say so?"

    He didn''t knowбн or perhaps he just needed a reason for whatever he had in his heart. If Aries was happy, there was a reason for him to wish to destroy it. But if she was just as miserable, thenбн why was he even here? Why was he even suffering? What for?<sub> </sub>

    "You are mad," Aries spoke once again, studying the emotions swirling in his eyes. "And pitiful. You don''t know if you hate me enough to kill me with your own hands or just love me so much your hatred doesn''t make a lot of a difference."

    "Do you think I''m better than them?" she inquired, tilting her head to the side. "Was it because everyone changed when you fell from your grace, while I am still the same to you?"

    "Perhaps," he breathed out. "Maybe not."

    The side of her lips curled up subtly. "I hate you to the bones. I really, really hate you. Every time I think of children, Bean always crosses my mind. You took him away from me. You can''t bring him back, so there''s nothing that can make me hate you less."

    Bean.

    Rightбн

    They had a child together.

    A child with her.

    "Do you think I never thought of him?" Bitterness filled his eyes as his mind drifted to those fleeting yet peaceful days with her. "Did you ever think I never felt sorry for him?"

    "You can''t bring him back. Your regret will change nothing."

    "I know that."

    Aries blinked ever so tenderly. "Beanбн that poor child will always be alone. His father and his mother will not reunite with him. Do you know why?"

    "Because we don''t have a ce in Heaven."

    "That''s right." Aries smiled bitterly. "We never had a ce there, and that''s why I feel sorry for him. And that''s why I will hate you for the rest of my life. Not only did you take him away from me but also, you took away all chances of me reuniting with him."

    Her eyes softened. "My poor childбн I can hear his cries every time I close my eyes. His cries were sad, and even when I search for him, I cannot find him. Only then did I realize that is because I am stuck deep in this hell while he was up there, left in the pearly gates of heaven, waiting for someone to take him in."

    Joaquin pressed his lips as tears pooled in his eyes. His vision slowly turned blurry as a tear rolled across the bridge of his nose. When he blinked, Aries''s image disappeared. At the back of his head, he knew everything she said was his own thoughts; it was his heart speaking. But he managed to delude himself into believing those were Aries''s sentiments as well.

    This was just one of the daily hallucinations Joaquin would go through бк unconscious or not. He slowly closed his eyes, reaching for the spot where he saw Aries, only for the darkness to swallow him. Joaquin went through hell over and over before Javier came to his cell and freed him from these shackles.

    Little did Javier know, Joaquin was never free. Joaquin was already a prisoner of his mind and a ve to his obsession with Aries. A highly intelligent insane person, who could understand his surroundings, but at the same time, too blinded by his own personal dilemma.

 Chapter 704 Its You Again

    "Will that hurt her?" were the words that immediately came into his head. "Then I''ll kill himбн a thousand times."

    Those were the words that broke the chains that were binding Joaquin. Javier let him go, and yet, now that he was standing before Aries, those words felt useless. Not that he meant it. There was no way Joaquin would listen to Javier''s orders when he was nothing but his dog in the past.

    Call it ego, but Javier was wrong to assume he could order Joaquin around. Thetter wasn''t built like that.

    "You wille with me whether or not you want to. Thank meter. You''re wee." His grip around her shoulders tightened as his eyes zed, ready to take her away from here.

    "No." Her reply was quiet, but there was a tinge of firmness in it. "I''m staying."

    Joaquin ground his teeth. "What made you think you have a say in it?"

    Aries blinked ever so tenderly, unfazed by the tightening grip around her biceps. Her eyes were locked with his, assessing the thousand unspoken words within those fiery silver eyes.

    "My brother will be furious," she whispered soothingly. "If not for Abel, he would''ve yed you from head to toe."

    "Your brother is dead бк"

    "Joaquin Imperial!" Joaquin was cut short when he heard a man''s voice thundering from the side. Both Joaquin and Aries turned their heads to the source of the voice, and their eyes instantlynded on a man with bright blonde hair and a pair of olive eyes.

    Dexter Vandran.

    Joaquin''s pupils dted while Aries smiled subtly. The former held his breath, assessing Dexter from head to toe. How was this man here?

    Dexter balled his hands into tight fists as his eyes lingered on Joaquin''s grip on Aries''s biceps. His fangs slowly let themselves known, stretching his stiff neck from one side to the other.

    "The audacity to show your face in front of herбн" Dexter''s voice trembled in anger, breathing out heavily. "Though I must admit I thank whoever let you out of that dungeon. Now, I have a chance to teach you a lesson you will never forget."

    As soon as those rolled out of Dexter''s tongue, he disappeared from his vantage point, only to reappear on Joaquin''s side. Joaquin instinctively released Aries, shoving her back to fling Dexter''s arms away. Both of them left the tform where Aries was positioned.

    "You are not his brother!" shouted Joaquin with a shaking voice, standing several feet from Dexter. "Youбн and the people in here were nothing but people who intruded on her life."

    "Aren''t you the same one?" Dexterughed in mockery, picking up a sword just lying around in the banquet hall. "The only difference was you were never epted."

    Joaquin''s expression hardened, drawing the sword clinging to his waist. "I''ll take her away from here. No one will ever stop me. Even if I have to kill you multiple times."

    Dexter''s countenance grew colder as ayer of frost covered his eyes. The corner of his lips curled up into a smirk, casting Aries a quick look.

    "I''m fine, Dani," he said out of nowhere. She was already sitting on the chair behind the long table of the royals. "I''ll take him away from here."

    Dexter slowly faced Joaquin''s direction, hissing. His eyes were glinting maliciously, and in a snap of a finger, he lurched toward Joaquin to bring the man''s doom. Abel hogged Joaquin all to himself, and even though Dexter knew Joaquin was suffering in Abel''s hands, there was always a bit of desire to punish him himself.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    des sparked as its piercing noise resonated in the air. Dexterunched attacks using this sword he looted nonstop, pushing Joaquin away from the banquet hall.

    "How are you still alive?" grumbled Joaquin through his gritted teeth, staring furiously at the man who was shing sword with him.

    "Hah!" Dexter let out a shortugh, grinning from ear to ear. "Thanks to you!"

    Joaquin''s expression turned grim but didn''t speak anymore as Dexter kept him busy. Still, at the back of Joaquin''s head, he didn''t know howe this man, who was already dead, came back alive. In the middle of the fight, Joaquin nced in Aries''s direction and noticed she wasn''t as surprised as he was.

    What was going on?

    *****

    [ Minutes before the present time: Rose Pce ]

    Joaquin stood beside the bed where Dexter was lying. His expression was stern, eyes on the blood on the marquess''s stomach.

    "Someone got here before me, huh?" he whispered, moving his sword vertically with its tip pointing at Dexter''s bleeding stomach. Without a second hesitation, Joaquin swung it down, only to stop when the tip was an inch away from Dexter''s body.

    "Hahбн" he let out a scoff, retrieving his sword. He cocked his head to the side, smirking. "Why would I need to listen to that Javier? He was nothing but a dog, acting like he was now the owner."

    Joaquin never nned to listen to Javier''s orders. He told him whatever Javier wanted to hear, but Joaquin had a n of his own. Although he could kill Dexter now, there was no need, since he couldn''t feel Dexter''s pulse or life energy anymore.

    Whoever killed the marquess was not Joaquin''s business. His job here was done, and there was no need to waste his time in this ce. There was a ce Joaquin wanted to go and his priority, only going to the Rose Pce, knowing Javier would be watching.

    "Ariesбн" Joaquin whispered with a sinisterugh, swinging his sword until the back of its des was resting on his shoulder. "... I think she''s cursed. All those who called themselves her family always end up dead."

    Little did Joaquin know, as he walked away from the chambers to go to the banquet hall where Aries was, there was a figure leaning in the dark corner inside the chambers. While Joaquin''s footsteps faded, Dexter slowly opened his eyes.

    "What a sick person," Dexter''s voice was rasped, reaching for his bleeding stomach, only to get the ck trinket Aries handed him before his expedition. He weakly pushed himself until he was sitting up, lifting his eyes at the figure in the corner.

    "It''s youбн again," said Dexter, even though he could barely see the man in the dark corner. "What do you want this time?"

    The man bing one with the darkness had his arms folded. His lips stretched until his teeth were showing.

    "To break that trinket," came out a calm voice of a man. "It''s annoying."

 Chapter 705 Do Not Break The Circle

    The ck trinket saved Dexter twice: once in that ambush orchestrated by Maximus and then tonight. He would''ve died the first time if not for it.

    Aries already knew that, though. She was too emotional in the beginning, butter on, she felt it. Her powers. The aura of the ck trinket was close and Dexter was surrounded by it. The very reason he was in a slumber. It was all because of her.

    Aries followed Dexter and Joaquin''s fierce battle. Her expression was dull and herplexion was as white as a sheet. Blood still dripped from her nose, unmoving. When she blinked, the battle she was watching to keep herself awake disappeared.

    Moving her eyes to the center of the banquet hall, the guests who were supposed to be poisoned were conscious. They were standing in the same ce where they were initially unconscious, markings on their bodies were glowing underneath their clothes; they were chanting under their breaths, looking back at her.

    When she blinked again, the guests were on the ground, unconscious. Dexter and Joaquin''s voices and the piercingly loud sh of metals could be heard echoing from the side.

    "Ahhбн" she breathed out as the veins in her eyes slowly turned red. "... Abel."

    Aries blinked once again, and just like that, the unconscious guests and the fierce battle disappeared, reced by the chanting of the same guests. She slowly turned her head to the side, and her eyes instantlynded on Abel.

    Abel was leaning back, sleeping. Beside him was Maximus, sleeping with his head on the table.

    "Maleficent," called a woman among the guest to get Aries''s attention. "We should stop."

    "No," Aries whispered, setting her eyes back to a youngdy, who was slowly shifting into an old woman. "Not yet, Marcia. We are just starting."

    "But if you continue to force yourself in keeping that worldбн" Marcia trailed off as Aries shook her head mildly. Even though Aries''s actions and reactions were subtle, the firmness in it was steadfast.

    "Continue to support me," said Aries under her breath. "Do not break the circle."

    Aries raised her hand. "Suzanne."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Suzanne, who had been beside Aries all along, lowered her head. She served Aries another tea to keep the empress awake, knowing Aries should stay awake no matter what.

    The empress''s hand was trembling as she reached for the cup, needing Suzanne''s assistance to take a sip. A deep exhale slipped past Aries''s lips, unable to discern the taste of blood and tea, as her tongue felt numb.

    "Abel and everyone are still in that world," Aries spoke after putting down the cup back on the table, gaining a little bit of strength from that poisoned tea. "We cannot stopбн even if it kills me."

    Suzanne''s jaw tightened and everyone who was keeping the circle to assist Aries in maintaining this spirit world didn''t seem pleased. However, they had to listen to her orders. It was the end of their bargain with her.

    No one resisted Aries''s orders and continued to do what they were doing. Meanwhile, Suzanne kept her eyes on Aries''s side profile, worry filling her eyes. As she did, she couldn''t help but remember what actually happened over an hour ago.

    <strong>**********</strong><sub> </sub>

    "Tonight''s banquet will now begin!" the master of the ceremony announced, and the orchestra started ying a heavy tune.

    Everyone was sharing a drink for the asion, exchanging ttery, and what a normal scene on such a grandiose night. However, that scene was only seen by those sitting at the royal table where Maximus, Abel, and Aries were sitting.

    From Suzanne''s perspective, she was standing on the corner of the great hall бк outside the circle бк where guests just standing in the same spot. When they started chanting, markings on their bodies began to glow until they could be seen through the fabric of their clothes.

    Suzanne shifted her eyes to the table where the three royalties were and caught Abel and Maximus having an exchange. Meanwhile, since Abel was keeping Maximus busy, Aries''s weakening state was kept in a blind spot.

    <strong>DING! DING! DING!</strong>

    "I am honored and overwhelmed by everyone''s warm wee. As we all know, everyone in here was considered ran away traitors on the maindбн" Maximus stood from his seat to make a speech, making Suzanne purse her lips into a thin line. What he was seeing was definitely different from what Suzanne was witnessing.

    Just the sight of it made her skin crawl.

    Aries''s ns were meticulous, but the risk she had to make was just as huge. To deceive a pure-blooded vampire and the king of vampires at that, Suzanne couldn''t imagine the amount of energy Aries had to unleash with the help of the night council who blended in with the guests.

    "With the help of His and Her Majesty, we will hold hand in hand to bring out the best for bothnds and make the maind an official territory the world will recognize. The vampires will no longer live in hiding, nor will they have to wait in the night for their turn." Maximus slowly faced everyone with a smile before setting his eyes back on Abel again. "May I pour you a drink, my friend?"

    "So long as you are uncoerced, sure."

    The three of them exchanged humorous remarks, ying with their words while Maximus served them drinks. After that, Maximus also offered drinks to all the guests. But s, no one really came from Maximus''s side. They were all screaming and shouting for help while Conan maul their bodies outside the great hall.

    "I only brought the most exquisite selected wines that had matured for centuries. For the future of the Haimirich Empire and the Maind, I make this toast for the promising future of this alliance. May this drink cleanse all our terrible records and the painful memories of the past." Maximus made a toast, but the only people who drank the wine he served were Maximus, Abel, and Aries.

    "Now, everything will be cleared," whispered Maximus, which Suzanne somehow heard.

    <strong>Thud!</strong>

    Suzanne blinked, eyes on Maximus, who fell on his seat with half of his bodynding on the table. Meanwhile, Abel managed to sit down and close his eyes calmly. Aries, on the other hand, stayed on her feet.

    Aries gazed at the two before facing the guests. "Let''s shall begin."

    <strong>Note: If you need a reference, this was what actually happened in Chapter 691: Underneath a mask was also a mask. Things will be exined in the next chapter.</strong>

 Chapter 706 The Real Power Of Maleficent

    Half a year was not a short time for Aries. During those months, not only she was busy acting as the empress and mother of the nation. She never failed to study and practice her power with Isaiah. Initially, they had no idea what Maleficent could do; no one knew.

    Over time, Aries slowly figured it out after going back and forth between that vision and that man, who called him her soulmate. With the help of that strange man and the witches from the night council, Aries got a good grasp of her power.

    <strong>Soul. </strong>

    What made Maleficent dangerous of all was that she had the power to trap people in a world she could create. It didn''t matter if they were humans, vampires, werewolves, or whatever creature. For as long as a person or anything had a soul, she could take them and leave their bodies in the real world.

    Maleficent could y god if that was what she wanted to do. Hence, she was purged and her dangerous power was sealed.

    The only reason Maleficent''s power still existed was that the first Maleficent had people. They were people who she helped and followed her. That power was passed from generation to generation, until many years ago, it was stolen. And by that, the poor girl who was carrying this sealed power was abducted, never to hear again, only for that power to appear now бк inside Aries.

    Still, Aries couldn''t control Maleficentpletely. To do thisrge-scale spell that span across the empire, she needed the night council, Isaiah, and the Grimsbanne''s help.

    As the guests of tonight''s royal banquet chanted continuously, lending them their powers so Aries could keep the world she created, Aries slowly sat down in her seat. She nced at Suzanne, the only person she didn''t take in Maleficent''s world.

    "Your Majesty." Suzanne''s eyes were filled with worry while staring at Aries''s paleplexion. Aries only smiled at her subtly and reassuringly.

    Aries wanted to say she was fine, and there was no need for Suzanne to worry. But s, deep in her heart, she knew she was getting weak. Despite the help of the night council, this spell was taking a lot of her energy.

    <strong>''Notбн'' </strong>she whispered, blinking, only to go back to Maleficent''s world. There was a shadow towering over her, making her lift her eyes.<strong> ''... yet.''</strong>

    There, standing opposite her, was a very familiar man. Those thin eyes, refined face, and a mild demure as he stood across from her was someone she had seen a couple of times.

    "Why are you here?" she asked, ncing behind him, only to see the guests unconscious on the ground. Suzanne was also not in this world. Therefore, she knew this wasn''t the reality.

    "This is my world as well," said the man quietly, smiling with his lips closed, but still reaching his squinting eyes. "I don''t think I can approach you with these people on the back."

    The side of her lips curled up weakly. "That''s right."

    "You are cruel," he humored, reaching for her upper lip. "You''re bleeding so much."

    The man gently wiped the blood on her upper lip with his thumb while she didn''t move. When he retrieved his hand, his squinting eyes cracked open slightly.

    "You really have the sharpest eyes," she pointed out under her breath. "Is that why you always smile?"

    "I smile because I can. No deeper meaning."

    "Is that so?"

    He didn''t respond anymore, staring at her silently. She also held his gaze, breathing calmly, reserving every bit of her energy.

    "I haven''t said this before, but you have my gratitude." Her soft voice pierced the prolonged silence between them. "Because of you, my brother is alive."

    "Thank her, not me." The man showed her the ring on his index.

    "It can''t do anything if you didn''t want to."<sub> </sub>

    "Maleficent is my lover," he humored. "Of course, I''ll grant her wishes. Not all wishes, though."

    Another wave of silence dawned on them before Aries asked. "Did youe to finally end me?"

    "I''m still brooding about it." His answer was quick and certain. "But it seemed you had been wanting to make me see you personally."

    "I do, and I think you already know the reason for that."

    "I do." He rocked his head, licking the blood on his thumb. "Sounds like I''m taking a marriage vow."

    "You''re hrious."

    "That''s the first that someone told me I was, although I know I am." He slowly moved his hand to his side, stretching his palm open. Dark shrouds circled around his hand,ing from his skull ring, forming into something long and huge, until it appeared as a dark and sharp spear.

    "So, that''s Maleficent," she whispered, watching how that skull ring turned into a dark spear that could y anyone. "It looks stunning."

    "She is stunning."

    Aries slowly lifted her eyes back to him, only to catch him staring at her while saying those words. "You have a way with your words."

    "Don''t tell me that''s the firstpliment you received."

    "No, though I have to admit it feltбн strange hearing it from you."

    "And why is that?" his smile was yful as if he already know the answer, but still wanted to hear it from her. His intention for that question was obvious, making herugh dryly.

    "You are wielding her in front of me," she pointed out, ignoring his previous inquiry. "I don''t think you are the type to wield her just to exhibit her beauty."

    The corner of his lips curled up into a short smirk. "That is correct."

    "You''ll kill meбн with her."

    "She will kill you, anyway." His eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, but that wasn''t enough to hide the malice in them. "I might as well just do it for you and me."

    There was a moment of silence between the two, holding each other''s gazes. The man slowly sped the handle of his dark spear, making his hand tremble with the unspeakable excitementing from his spear.

    "You don''t like it, huh?" she murmured. "You loathed earning feelings and desires you knew weren''t yours. Perhaps that is the only thing we have inmon, aside from wielding Maleficent."

    Aries was calm despite knowing this man was here to end her for the sake of their peace of mind. "However, if there is a wielder of Maleficent that has to die so the other can wield itбн that is definitely not me."

    She watched the man raise his dark spear to her and as time slowed down; she added under her breath. "Abel."

    <strong>SLASH!</strong>

 Chapter 707 Sorans Kin

    <strong>Abel. </strong>

    That name had always brought fear to anyone who heard it. Others couldn''t even speak that name out. But for Aries, that was the only word that woulde out of her lips whenever she was in danger. Because she knew, deep in her heart, he woulde. No matter where she was or how far he was, Abel would be there for her.

    <strong>SLASH!</strong>

    When the man swung his sword down to y Aries, his dark spear only shed the air as a figure suddenly appeared, taking her away. But before the man could recover from the turn of events, multiple people came from all directions with their weapons.

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    The dark spear trembled as the man bent down slightly, blocking the multiple weapons that came to kill him. With one swift push, the dark shroud scatter in the air like road dust, pushing back the people who attacked him at once.

    "My, my." The man straightened his back, looking around at the people whounched an attack against him. "What a strange bunch."

    There, was Conan, Roman, Climaco, Marse, and Maximus with their weapons. It was strange for all of them to attack the man all at once since they were also enemies. However, it was clear they had their reasons that they stopped their own battles toe and take on this man.

    Meanwhile, Abel held Aries in his arms at the corner of the banquet hall. He slowly gazed down at her, eyes bloodshot, a horn sticking out of his head. Yet, despite wearing the face of the devil, genuine worry dominated his eyes.

    "Darling." His voice was deeper, caressing her cheek with his bloodstained hand. "You look pale."

    Aries weakly lifted her eyes and smiled subtly. "You came."

    "I always do, darling."

    "I know." She nodded mildly. "You always do." -- he never failed her.

    His jaw tightened, biting his tongue to speak what he knew she would disagree. Aries was aware of Abel''s opinion about her dangerous n, but he still listened to her because he trust her. He wanted to trust her, but seeing her in such a pitiful state angered him. Anger meant for him.

    "How I wish I do not love you this second," murmured Abel, standing on his feet, carrying her to the corner. "If only I don''t. I don''t have to listen to you."

    Aries chuckled as he sat her down on the floor. She reached for his hand as he was squatting down beside her.

    "You speak so cruelly, my love," she said, squeezing his hand mildly. "Don''t be like that."

    He let out a sharp breath, cing her hand back on herp. "You can''t me me."

    "Trust me."

    "I trust you." Abel raised his head and looked into her eyes. "That''s why we''re here."

    That was right. Despite his obvious disagreement, Abelpromised because Aries didn''t want to be protected. She didn''t want to be in the dark. She wanted total trust from him and to be seen just as capable as his people.

    "Thank you." -- oh, how painful these words were for him, but he had no choice.<sub> </sub>

    As Abel made sure Aries wasfortable and in a safe ce, the people in the middle of the banquet assessed each other. If one didn''t know better, one would think all those who attacked the man were on the same side.

    Well, right now, they were.

    It was obvious.

    They only had one opponent right now, and that was that man wielding a dark spear.

    "Oh!" the man snapped his eyes and smiled, setting his attention to someone very familiar to him. "It''s you."

    Marse didn''t smile back, rolling her eyes when Maximus nced at her. "What is that judgemental look?"

    "You know him?" Conan frowned, standing farthest from Maximus and Marse. They were in the middle of the fight when they felt that man''s aura in the banquet hall. Conan was also surprised when Marse and Maximus rushed in the same direction.

    "Well..." Marse scratched her temple, only for the man to answer for her.

    "Of course! She''s the one who helped me in the past!" said the man happily. "We went through a lot of experiments, too. She was the one who took my first kiss and night. I''d say she was terrible."

    "I don''t want to hear those details." Conan snapped but didn''t attack, knowing being rash could lead to his death. They had orders to follow and must stick to them.

    "Oh, then do you want to hear how I got this spear?" the man spun the dark spear with ease. "She gave it to me, and I can y people easily. The downside is that she didn''t tell me by killing. This weapon can gain its own consciousness. Although obviously, it doesn''t speak, Maleficent always tries to overpower and control me."

    His smile stretched broader. "In other words, that woman and I have many things to settle."

    The air in the great hall gradually turned heavy with all of them observing the man from head to toe. For all of them to be this cautious, they were deeply aware he was someone they couldn''t just underestimate. But before anything else could happen, the man raised his brows upon sensing the dangerous aura behind them.

    "Isaiah, have you found this man?" asked Abel as a thick, dark aura surrounded him, eyes fixed on the man.

    "Yes." Isaiah''s voice came through Abel''s head, but thetter noticed Isaiah''s grim tone.

    "I see." Abel didn''t ask further questions, rocking his head, keeping his eyes on the man who wields Maleficent. The man smiled subtly, not a bit intimidated by the man who was said to be the strongest Grimsbanne: Wrath.

    "It was a pleasure to meet you, Your Majesty." The man ced a hand across his chest, bowing slightly. "My name is Fabian."

    "A Barrett descent," Abel smirked, revealing his long fangs. "No wonder a human like you can wield such a dangerous toy."

    "And this toy surely got an interest..." the man, Fabian, trailed off as he disappeared from his vantage point, only to reappear before Abel. "... in you."

    CLNG!

 Chapter 708 Danger Had Arrived

    <strong>[ REALITY ]</strong>

    Abel had a theory thest time he dug up Marse. His sister mentioned thanking her for taking a portion of Maleficent. At first, Abel didn''t dwell on it since he knew he wouldn''t get any answer. However, at the back of his head, he thought there was something Marse knew that Vera didn''t.

    This assumption grew at that time Maximus showed himself in the capital and attacked Aries. Abel sensed this growing repugnance from the pebble that killed a pureblooded vampire. He sensed Maleficent, like Aries, but with a stronger repelling aura and scent.

    There was another person who held Maleficent aside from Aries. No wonder Aries couldn''t awaken her true powers because a part of it was being held by someone or something. Until now, Abel was unsure if this was a good thing or a terrible one.

    That was why he ordered Isaiah to do a special task.

    Isaiah stood by the door of the emperor''s chambers, eyes on the man sitting in the armchair. He had searched high and low for this man, only to find him hiding in the emperor''s chambers. The emperor''s pce was highly secured, but if one sessfully snuck in, it would be the perfect hiding spot.

    "Isaiah, have you found this man?" Abel''s voice suddenly rang inside his head, making Isaiah''s eyelids droop.

    "Yes," Isaiah answered under his breath, but his expression was stern. He watched the man, Fabian, slowly open his eyes while Isaiah''s link with Abel was cut off.

    Fabian slowly cocked his head back, eyes falling on Isaiah by the door. "Did youe to kill me?"

    "No." Isaiah''s answer was quick and certain. "His Majesty simply wants to talk to you."

    "I am already talking to him right now," said Fabian, tapping his fingers against the armrest. "He doesn''t have a lot of things to say."

    Isaiah pressed his lips into a thin line, observing Fabian''s weak blinks. This man was just half awake, and yet he could intimidate someone. And from experience, Isaiah could tell if he fought this man, he would still have a hard time.

    "Amazing," whispered Isaiah, unable to hold back the praise Fabian deserved.

    "You people are so kind with your words. How nice would it be if we didn''t have this issue?" Fabian kept his smile, tilting his head to the side. "Won''t you ask me how I am both conscious in this world in her world?"

    "You hold Maleficent," said Isaiah in the same monotonous tone. "Therefore, it is no surprise that you can go back and forth or stay conscious of both."

    Fabian''s smile stretched wider, nodding. "You''re smarter than you appear."

    That was the first anyone told Isaiah he was smarter than he appear. Isaiah looked like someone who already figured everything out, but it wasn''t like he took it to the heart. Isaiah was immune to Conan''s and Dexter''s and Morro''s usual nder.

    "But anyway, I am curious." Fabian cleared his throat. "You said you didn''te to kill me, but because Lady Tilly''s brother wanted to talk to me. But now that I am currently having a showdown with him, I wonder what''s your next n?"

    There was a moment of silence between the two, staring at each other, unmoving. When Isaiah''s lips parted, Fabian arched his brow.

    "Hmm?" Fabian cocked his head to the side, brows furrowed.

    "Maximus IV," Isaiah repeated, stressing that name. "He came to kill Maleficent."<sub> </sub>

    "Isn''t he in the spirit world right now?"

    "He isбн just like His Majesty."

    Fabian''s already arched brow raised higher. "Are you insinuatingбн?" he trailed off, eyes glinting as he nced over his shoulder. "Ahhбн"

    "The banquet hall was shut off." Isaiah lifted his chin as his expression grew solemn. "The only order I received was to find you, but since I did and you are conversing with His Majesty, I had nothing to do with you anymore."

    "However, I presumed you care about Maleficent," he continued, breathing out deeply. "I''m not in that world, but she suddenly chased me away. I cannot certainly say it was on purpose, but she''s in danger. I''m not sure what sort of danger, but my gut feeling never failed me."

    "Hahбн" Fabian let out a deep exhale, turning on his heel as if he wasn''t afraid Isaiah would attack him once he turn his back. He sauntered towards the window, rubbing his thumb against his ring. His eyes moved in the banquet hall''s direction; the ce wasn''t far or near, it was just enough distance to get there on time.

    "Where is my young miss?" he asked out of nowhere. "Sunny La Crox."

    "In the forbidden mansion."

    "With who?"

    "Alone."

    "She''s not alone."

    "The person inside that ce was a man in his slumber."

    Fabian''s sharpened, cracking his fingers one by one. "Where should I go first?" he asked himself, humming a low tune.

    "The banquet hall? Or the Forbidden Mansion?" he asked again, unable to decide which was more important to him. If the person in the banquet hall wasn''t Aries, Fabian would''ve gone to the Forbidden Mansion in a heartbeat. But both of them were important to him; Aries as the person who held the same power as him and was connected to him one way or another, or Sunny, who was his young miss he pledged to serve and protect.

    "I''d go to the Forbidden Mansion," Isaiah remarked, staring at Fabian''s back. "Even if I go to the banquet hall, it''s to no availбн"

    Isaiah trailed off when the sound of shattered ss pierced the still air. He gazed at the spot where Fabian stood, but the man had already disappeared on the silent night outside. His lips opened and closed, but he ended up pursing his lips into a thin line.

    "Did heбн" he trailed off once again as he suddenly felt his heart thud against his chest, making him hold his breath. His pupils dted, running to the shattered window.

    "No," he whispered in panic, and without a second hesitation, he jumped out of the window to go to the Forbidden Mansion, where he felt this dreadful aura slowly dominating the night.

    <strong>Danger had arrived. </strong>

 Chapter 709 Crescendo

    <strong>[ FORBIDDEN MANSION ]</strong>

    When Conan came to save Sunny, tackling Marse out of the chambers, Sunny watched how they fought from the hole they made in the wall. The two were equally strong, but suddenly, Marse ran off while Conan followed her.

    Sunny stayed in the same spot for minutes, looking at the vast expanse that was just silent. No one could guess what was in her crafty little head, turning on her heel to walk back to the bed. Sunny climbed onto the bed, staining the sheet with the blood on her hands.

    "Alright," she huffed, kneeling beside the unconscious former king of the maind. "Let''s do it again."

    Her lips stretched from ear to ear, picking up the small knife on the side. Sunny held it up excitedly, telling herself no one would disturb her again. With that thought in mind, Sunny giddily poked a finger inside the open chest, searching for the link she already found previously.

    However, just as she was in the middle of finding the vein, Sunny stopped once again. The smile on her face faded, raising her head, and looking around at the multiple people that suddenly appeared in this room. She didn''t know how they got in, but she was certain she didn''t feel their presence until they entered her vicinity.

    "What a troublesome bunch." A deep exhale slipped past her lips, pulling her little hands inside the open chest. Sunny blinked and blinked, but the people were still present. She bit her inner lower lip until it bled and then blinked once again.

    <strong>''I am surrounded,'' </strong>she told herself solemnly. <strong>''In this world and in that other one.'' </strong>

    Although it was not clear if they were the same group of people, Sunny didn''t dwell on it. It didn''t matter. What mattered was their purpose.

    "Youбн do not want to make my papa angry," said the little girl, blinking, and then continuing to the people surrounding her in the Spirit World. "My mama will maul you while you''re breathing."

    "Take her away," was the order she heard from both worlds, but with a different voice. It only confirmed her faint curiosity that Maximus had another n. It seemed Maximus had foreseen thising. Well, now that they figured whoever was upying the real Maximus''s body and this man lying on her side was an old evil soul. Hence, it was no surprise that he had an idea about Maleficent''s powers.

    "It''s sad that you are going after me first." Sunny frowned. "Is it because I am young and easier to deal with?"

    Although the order to take her away was given several seconds ago, only a few took a cautious step forward. They had tried before she left the maind, but unfortunately, they underestimated her just because she was a three-year-old child.

    Sunny massacred everyone who tried to harm her that night of the revolution. They couldn''t approach her just as carelessly; she was, after all, still a Grimsbanne. And the mix of her blood was one of a kind.

    "Or was it because you think I am a bigger threat?" she tilted her head to the side, blinking ever so slowly. "If that is the case, I''d take that as apliment."

    A smile appeared on her face, but it quickly disappeared in seconds. Ayer of frost coated her eyes, scanning the people surrounding her. They were wearing ck suits, and their presence was just as quiet as shadows.

    "Leon," she called and in a snap of a finger, the door flew open, revealing a towering man with his sword glinting under the dimness of the night. "Morro."

    In the Spirit World, Morro also appeared. But unlike Leon, Morro was standing with the hole in the wall behind him. With Morro''s towering and wide physique, he almost blocked the entire hole. He wasn''t carrying a sword, but the cut of his lips reached his ears.

    "Morro has arrived," dered Morro, his lips moving, showing his razor teeth and how his mouth expanded to his ear. "His Majesty said do not touch his cute baby."

    Sunny blinked, only to see Leon not moving an inch from his spot. However, she could feel the tension building up in the chambers, making her wonder if she should just find a way to carry this man to another room. This room was just too packed and she couldn''t concentrate because of all the distractions.<sub> </sub>

    When Sunny blinked once more, a strong gust of wind blew past her short silver and hazel hair. Her expression stiffened, searching for the source of that wind. There, near the bed, Morro pushed someone who charged toward her away.

    Another hole in the wall appeared as the thick dust and smoke dissipated in the air. Sunny slowly raised her head, setting her eyes on Morro''s back.

    "Do not touch the cute baby," Morro repeated sternly, moving his foot, only to create a line on the floor with it. "Do not cross. Danger zone ahead."

    "Morro, what about on that other side?" she asked out of in curiosity, pointing in the opposite direction.

    Morro looked back at her and blinked innocently. He nced at the angle of the bed, realizing there were more openings.

    "Please do not go there." He faced his enemies and spoke politely. "That would be cheating."

    "..." Sunny pursed her lips. Did he mean if the enemies used that side to approach her, they could get in? "Grandpa just gathers a bunch of strange people."

    Sunny shook her head, and as she did, a figure went to her from the other side of the bed. Her expression grew solemn as malice filled her eyes. Using her little index that was drenched in blood, she quickly doodled a stick figure and put a sh across the drawing''s neck.

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    Sunny slowly shifted her eyes to the bed, a severed head on the edge while his body didn''t reach the bed. Another deep exhale slipped past her lips, pressing her thumb on her fangs to make it bleed a little.

    "That''s a no-no zone." She moved her finger sideways, warning them, yet still looked adorable. "I can''t believe you''ll just protect that way, and not here."

    Morro pursed his lips into a thin line, feigning innocence. Sunny didn''t dwell on him since she already listed him on her nonexistent dummy list. However, when Sunny blinked, she was suddenly pulled back to the real world.

    <strong>Booogsh!</strong>

    Sunny furrowed her brows, turning her head. Her eyes slowly dted, seeing that a man was grabbing Leon by the neck. She moved her gaze to the person and instantly held her breath. The man that had been unconscious for almost a year was not beside her anymore.

    He was there, strangling and overpowering Leon with one hand.

    "Uncleбн" she whispered, trailing off as the man turned his head in her direction. The former king, Third, grinned wickedly the moment he locked eyes with her.

    "Mamaбн" another whisper escaped her lips as Leon''s neck cracking caressed her ears. Leon''s body instantlynded on the floor with a thud, and without wasting a second, Third, lurched in her direction.

    This time, Sunny knew no one woulde to save her. Unless, of course, Abel woulde to her rescue, which was impossible because Abel was fighting Marse right this second. Even if Abele to her or anyone, they wouldn''t save her in time.

    "Sunnyбн is scared." Sunny shut her eyes, anticipating the pain, and within a second, blood sttered on the bed and the floor.

 Chapter 710 The Prayer

    Aries listened to the ancient chanting being spoken under the night council''s breath. She reached for the tea and again downed it in one go, easing the pain prickling under her skin. Just as Aries gulped the lingering taste in her cavities, she coughed out blood.

    "Your Majesty!" Suzanne panicked, taking out a white handkerchief. She handed it over to the empress, which Aries used to wipe her mouth. "Your Majesty, I think this is enough."

    Suzanne clenched her teeth, ring at the guests of tonight''s banquet, and yelled. "Stop it at once! Her Majesty is already coughing out blood!"

    The guests who were chanting the same spell over and over simply nced up at Suzanne. All they saw was desperation and fury in the empress''sdy-in-waiting, but no one stopped. Not unless Aries said so. They wouldn''t stop.

    "I said бк!"

    "Suzanne." Suzzanne''s breath hitched, looking back at Aries as thetter held her hand. Aries shook her head, clearing her throat. "I am fine. We''re almost there."

    Suzanne''s face crumpled, her lips quivering, but unable to say a word. She carefully released the empress''s hand, keeping her hand on her abdomen, head hung low.

    "Suzanne бк"

    "I''ll stay here." Suzanne cut Aries off without looking into her eyes. "If you need anything, I''ll be here, Your Majesty."

    Aries let out a deep exhale, staring at her handmaiden from head to toe. This was the reason Aries didn''t detail everything to Suzanne the first time she came up with her n. Herdy-in-waiting wouldn''t be pleased for sure. Suzanne cared about her like how Abel cared for her; that was the onlymon thing Suzanne had with Abel.

    Setting her attention back to the banquet hall, Aries''s lips started moving. She chanted voicelessly, following the movements of everyone''s lips. Soon, her tiny and rasped voice came out quietly, and as soon as it did, everyone felt this growing pressureing from her.

    But they continued, eyes shut, the marks on their skins lighting even more brightly. From the bird''s perspective, every guest and the markings on their bodies formed a gigantic magic circle. Maximus would know if Aries drew the magic circle on the floor or the walls.

    It was a good thing Isaiah once mentioned magic circles weren''t required to be drawn on somewhere visible. They could be put on items for as long as they were ced in a spot that could make the formation.

    But with the expected turn of events and the situation, putting the circle on the things that could break or move was a guaranteed problem. Thus, Aries thought of using people in the night council and some guests who were loyal to Abel.

    Her eyelids drooped, blinking ever so weakly. As soon as she did, she heard Abel and Fabian''s shing swords for a moment, only for the sound to disappear, reced by the chanting.

    <strong>''No good,</strong>'' was what her brain whispered, knowing Aries was hovering between reality and the world she created. <strong>''But we''re almostбн''</strong>

    Her thoughts trailed off, lifting her eyes up. Aries grabbed the armrest, pushing herself up from her seat. The chanting continued, but everyone looked at her.

    "Your Majesty?" Deep lines appeared on Suzanne''s forehead, only to see Aries wave dismissively.

    "Continue," said Aries calmly. "I need to go somewhere."

    Aries didn''t exin or idled, turning on her heel as she carefully took the steps down. Suzanne walked beside her with her hands ready to catch Aries if the empress fall.

    "I''m alright, Suzanne," said Aries the moment she reached thest step, casting her handmaiden a quick look. "You stay here."<sub> </sub>

    "But Your Majesty бк"

    Aries cut her off by shaking her head. "I am alright. Nothing will happen to me."

    "Are you telling me to let you leave this hall all on your own?"

    "What can you do, Suzanne?" Aries tilted her head to the side, unfazed by the bitterness that dominated herdy-in-waiting''s face. "I cannot protect anyone in this state. Keep things organized here. That will help me for sure."

    Suzanne lowered her head, teary-eyed. She might be helpful in arranging the empress''s schedule and affairs, but she was no match for the people walking around the imperial pce. Although Aries was harsh, what the empress said was nothing but the truth.

    Aries would just end up protecting Suzanne if danger arrived. Suzanne would just be a burden.

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Suzanne stood still, uttering the hardest obedience she had since bing Aries''sdy-in-waiting.

    Aries pursed her lips but didn''t react strongly to preserve her dwindling energy. Taking another step away, Aries dragged her feet all alone. As she walked away, she could still hear the chanting and Suzanne''s gaze on her back, but she didn''t look back or anything even until the chanting was gone, reced by the silence of the night.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    "Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy nameбн" Aries chanted a prayer under her breath, waltzing through the empty hallway leisurely. "... but deliver us from evil."

    "Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy nameбн" she coughed and her steps faltered, but she proceeded, dragging her legs forward. The prayer she was chanting grew silent, but she kept chanting it in her heart.

    <o>,m <strong>Deliver her from evil. </strong></o>

    The longer she kept the Spirit World, the more Aries felt this scorching heat burning within her. It was as though this heat was burning everything around it, making her lungs constrict and her breathing painful. Again, she coughed and blood spat out of her mouth.

    When her eyes shut and reopened, the silent surrounding was gone. Instead, fighting, screams and cries, piercing sounds of metals, and blood and death permeated the air. She looked around and then caught a shadowing to her side.

    Aries stood still, only seeing the glint of the de that was charging at her. She slowly raised a hand and blinked ever so slowly while chanting a word under her breath. Silence returned, standing all alone in the hallway with no one fighting outside. Aries let out a deep exhale, resuming her steps.

    Markings slowly appeared on the path she had taken, glowing in bright red and ck, while she continued to pray for help. Soon, she reached a spot in the inner pce where she could see the Forbidden Pce.

    "Ga ran sen," she whispered in a voice she also barely heard. "Be gone."

    The moment those words rolled out of her tongue, Aries disappeared from her vantage point, only to get teleported inside the Forbidden Mansion, in between Sunny and Maximus III.

 Chapter 711 Wont Leave Him Again

    "Sunnyбн is scared."

    <strong>SPLASH!</strong>

    Sunny shut her eyes, anticipating the pain which didn''te through. However, she felt the blood stter on her and its scent, making her peek cautiously. Sunny slowly raised her eyes, only to see Aries''s back standing on the side of the bed.

    <strong>Thud!</strong>

    Sunny slightly flinched, gazing down at the body in between Third and Aries. It was one of the people Aries picked up to use as their shield, only to dispose of it without batting an eye. Aries was tainted with blood, but not from Third''s attack.

    "Grandmamaбн" called Sunny with a shaking voice, biting her bottom lip as she felt truly scared for the first time in her life. It wasn''t that Sunny didn''t have other ns, but she knew she would get hurt. Sunny was afraid of pain, after all.

    "Your Majesty, how can you attack a poor child without a second hesitation?" Aries''s voice was soft and weak, but it didn''t sound less reliable. "That is quite disappointing. I thought you were better than that."

    Her eyelids drooped, sizing up the man she asionally visited back when he was in aa. The man looked different back when his eyes were closed and now that he was looking back at her. Such malicious eyes. Who would have thought? But not that they were unfamiliar. Aries had seen those eyes.

    His eyes were the same as Maximus IV''s. No, not by appearance, but by what lies deep beneath them.

    The man smirked, sizing Aries up from head to toe. Her expression was dull, exhausted. But despite her weak countenance, she stood still. Considering she was bridging two worlds, it would be foolish to take her at face value.

    "Maleficent," he called. His voice was rasped and dark enough to give anyone goosebumps.

    <strong>How evil. </strong>

    "I had finally met you," he continued, eyes full of malice. He raised a hand and offered it to her. "Come, my dearest. Let us go."

    Aries let out a dryugh. "Come? To you? To where?"

    "You can feel it, do you?" Third tilted his head to the side. "Us. Me and you."

    "Feelбн" Aries drew a breath, trying to understand his words, but to no avail. "No, Your Majesty. I can''t feel usбк"

    Her breath hitched as her entire body froze, looking back at the man inches from her. She didn''t know what happened or how he got closer, but he was fast.

    The man lowered his head, cocking his head to the side. "You have changed."

    "I didn''t." Aries did her best to calm her surprise, lifting her chin up. "I am not Maleficent, Your Majesty. I didn''t change. This is the way I am, always."

    "You are rightбн" his eyelids drooped, raising his hands to cup her cheek but stopped midway. "You are not Maleficent. Aries. That is your name."

    His smirk twitched in irritation, revealing his long and sharp fangs. His eyes shone in bright red, anger burning within.

    "The Grimsbanneбн" he breathed out, shifting his eyes to Sunny, who was still behind Aries.

    "Grandmamaбн Sunny is scaredбн" Sunny moved back slowly, wanting to hide behind Aries, but was afraid the man would just snatch her away.

    "These thievesбн just always get in my way, do they?" Third looked back at Aries, grinding his teeth angrily. "They just won''t die and leave me the hell alone."

    <strong>Wasn''t it the opposite?</strong><sub> </sub>

    Abel and everyone were living peacefully until the people on the maind stepped foot in the Haimirich Empire. Aries and Abel wanted nothing to do with them. Abel had drastically changed; although he was still cruel, he was behaving himself for as long as he get his wife''s praises and kisses at the end of the day.

    Abel was trying.

    But these peopleбн. This man in particrбн just came out of nowhere, bringing whatever issues they have and implicating them.

    Thinking about it brought this unspeakable fury into her heart.

    "What do you want?" she asked, breathing out through her lips. "What is it that you want to go in here and coerce with Marse?"

    "Their death." His answer was quick without a second hesitation. "And yours."

    The side of his lips curled up, resembling the smile of the devil. He might not have those hauntingly beautiful wings or those horns Abel had, but the growing repugnance in her heart significantly grew as she looked at him.

    "If the Grimsbannes die, I can live in peace. I can rule this world, and youбн I can bring her back." Third huffed under his breath, and without a moment''s notice, he shoved his hand to her neck. The transparent barrier that was protecting Aries easily shattered, pinned on the bed, making Sunny jump away on instinct.

    Aries held his wrist on instinct, digging her nails into his skin, eyes bloodshot. Her face immediately turned red at the tight grip on her neck, but her expression remained stern.

    <strong>''He would kill me,''</strong> was what crossed her mind, thinking of ways to break away from him. The veins in the white area of her eyes slowly turned red, and soon, she felt her head turn heavy.

    "Get away from her." She heard Sunny''s voice from over her head and saw the little girl jump on Third. However, just before she could make contact, Third flung his arms away. Subsequently, Sunny crashed into the wall.

    Sunny let out a yelp.

    "Sunny!" Aries''s breath hitched, looking back at the man who was strangling her. She gripped his wrist tighter, grinding her teeth. Having no options to break free from him, Aries started mumbling a chant. As she did so, tears of blood rolled down her temple.

    "Ra ka sha ma saбн" Despite theck of air, her voice grew louder and firmer. Blood continued to roll down her temples, and soon, it also came out of her nose, and coughed blood. "... maбн coughбк"

    "Grandmamaбн" Aries heard Sunny''s tiny voice from her side. The little girl pushed herself to sit up with great difficulty, setting her eyes on the man pinning Aries on the bed while strangling her. "... stop it."

    No one knew what sort of spell Aries was chanting over and repeatedly. However, a major part of Sunny''s heart knew Aries should stop.

    "Ra ka бк"

    <strong>Boosh!</strong>

    Aries breathed out deeply when his grip suddenly loosened, coughing and rolling to her side. Each of her coughs was painful as if a de was slicing through her throat. When she recovered, Aries immediately turned in Sunny''s direction. Relief swelled in her chest seeing that Sunny seemed alright and just a little dirty.

    "Damn you," Aries spat out through her gritted teeth, ring at the man, who was thrown at the wall by force. She groped her neck, stretching it, trying to not feel the sensation of his tight grip. As she did, she watched Third stretch as he grunted, rising back to his feet.

    Third gazed at Aries, fog forming in front of his lips. "Maleficent," he called, balling his hand into a fist. "You are making me angry."

    As soon as thest syble of his remarks slipped past his lips, Aries felt this strong, dark aura she had never felt before. <strong>They had to run.</strong> The first thing that came into her mind was Sunny. She had to take Sunny away from here. But the moment that thought crossed her mind, Aries froze as a figure suddenly appeared at her side.

    "Youбн will not leave me again," was all she heard before feeling a dark shroud envelop her.

 Chapter 712 I Will Humor You

    "Youбн will not leave me again."

    Aries held her breath as she felt Third''s breath down her neck. Her entire body just froze, unable to react quickly, but she immediately sensed the dark shroud enveloping her.

    <strong>CLENCH!</strong>

    "Hah!" Aries breathed out sharply, turning her head on instinct, only to see Isaiah standing a few steps from her. Hisplexion was pale, as if he barely did something in the nick of time, right outside the Forbidden Mansion.

    "Isaiah," called Aries airily, and then heard Sunny''s voice on the other side.

    "Ouchyбн"

    Aries turned in Sunny''s direction, and the moment her eyesnded on the little girl, relief swelled in her chest. Sunny was getting up on the grass, just as equally confused as her.

    "Grandmamaбн" Sunny scratched her head, trailing off as her eyes moved to Isaiah and then to the other man several steps from him. Her doe eyes sparkled the moment realization dawned on her. "Mister Fabian!"

    ? Sunny jumped, running to Fabian with open arms. "Mister Fabian, you came!" cheered little Sunny, jumping into the man''s arms as thetter squatted down.

    Her lips were stretching from ear to ear, facing Fabian squarely. Excitement twinkled in her eyes, meeting someone she was so familiar with. Fabian also smiled at her until his eyes were squinting. His eyes then cracked open upon feeling someone''s gaze on him.

    Fabian slowly turned his head in Aries''s direction, and the second he did, they locked eyes with each other. Aries held her breath until her neck turned taut, swallowing down a mouthful of air.

    "You were real," she blurted out, making the side of his lips curl up.

    "Of course I am," he humored. "You are real."

    <strong>Of course, she was real.</strong>

    Aries gulped once again, lips quivering, but her tongue kept rolling back in her throat. This wasn''t the time for this, but her heart was thudding nervously. She couldn''t exin in words what she was feeling at the moment, but what she was certain of was that Fabian was someone relevant in her life.

    "Well, well, well." Her train of thought was abruptly put to a halt upon hearing Third''s voice behind her. "What a nice reunion! It''s been a while, Fabian."

    "It has been, Your Majesty." Fabian held Sunny in his arms, bowing slightly. "Lady Tilly will be disappointed if she heard you tried to harm the young miss."

    Third smirked, scanning the four of them. Fabian was carrying Sunny, and then, several steps away from those two, was Isaiah, and then Aries stood several steps away from the three. They all gazed back at Third, assessing him from head to toe.

    "Darkmoreбн" Third crooned, setting his attention to Isaiah, who teleported Aries and Sunny before any disaster could happen. He stretched his neck from one side to the other, producing careful cracks. "Back then, it was just the Grimsbanne. But now, the list just keeps going longer it isбн fascinating."

    Isaiah wiped the blood off of the scars on the back of his hand. Teleporting a person wasn''t the type of spell that waspatible with his powers, so he had to exert extra effort to get Aries and Sunny out of the Forbidden Mansion.

    "It seemed you hurt yourself by saving those two." Third smirked, seeing some of Isaiah''s skin peeling off. "Pity."<sub> </sub>

    "Your Majesty," called Isaiah to get Aries'' attention. "Please return to the hall. No one is there to look after His Majesty."

    "No." Aries kept her sharp eyes at Third. "You go. I don''t think with the amount of energy you had been lending me since the beginning, you still have the strength to wield your sword."

    "You are underestimating бк"

    "You should take my little miss," suggested Fabian to the two, gazing at Sunny with a smile. "Is it alright to leave you with His Grace, my young miss?"

    Sunny smiled and nodded. "Will youe back to get me?"

    "I will." He rocked his head, shifting his attention to Isaiah. Reluctance filled Isaiah''s eyes, but then Fabian''s eyes fell on the man''s bleeding hand. "Being a witch is truly troublesome, in a way."

    "I''m not letting you stay in here with these questionable men," Isaiah remarked, keeping his eyes on Aries and ignoring Fabian''s sidement. "Your Majesty. We had a n, and we followed this n. You бк"

    "The n is me, Your Grace," argued Aries while holding Third''s gaze. "I can bend it and tweak it anytime and anywhere I want. Take Sunny away and tell everyone to keep what they were doing."

    Isaiah''s jaw tightened while Third let out augh with his lips closed. He gazed at Aries from head to toe, rocking his head, pleased at how fierce she was.

    "When you''re like this, you remind me of Maleficent," he mused, eyes drooping dangerously. "She was also like this back then. A woman full of hope and an overall enthusiastic person. She looked weak, but the fire in her eyes wasmendable."

    A smile turned up on Third''s face as he reminisced about a memory of the past. "That bitchбн I will be going to kill her. A thousand times isn''t enough for the sufferings she had inflicted upon me."

    "You deserved it." Aries lifted her chin, ignoring the situation behind her. Her countenance might be pale, and she looked like someone on the brink of passing out, but the fire in her eyes almost made her beautiful green eyes turn red. "It was you, wasn''t it?"

    Third cocked his head to the side, arching a brow.

    "Those women," came out a whisper, making Fabian slow down as he stood up after putting down Sunny. Meanwhile, Sunny sprinted towards Isaiah, shing him a smile as she clung to his side. "You were the one who put them on that tree."

    "Ahhбн" Third chuckled as if that memory was something funny. "The witch went crazy after that. It was a fun memory to remember, and it seemed she still remember it even though she didn''t have any physical, human body anymore."

    All thest bit of emotion disappeared from Aries as a thinyer of frost coated her eyes. "How repulsive," she muttered.

    "Don''t worry. Those emotions weren''t yours, so don''t take it to the heart," he humored yfully, disappearing from his vantage point only to reappear in front of her. "You don''t like being forced into the passivity of the situation, correct?"

    "Na ah." Suddenly, Fabian''s voice came from his side, grabbing Third''s wrist inches from Aries''s eyes. "It was nice meeting you, Your Majesty, but I think you should wake up. That sister of yours is a sneaky demon. I can feel her in here as well."

    He then shed Third a smile. "Apologies. My master''s uncle and my soulmate''s husband had quite a humor. He''ll be here shortly, so until then, I will humor you."

 Chapter 713 Master Of Deception

    <strong>[ MALEFICENT WORLD: Spirit World ]</strong>

    Abel and Fabian had been exchanging blows as if everything didn''t matter. One would attack, and one would block it. It was safe to say they were equally strong and fast in terms ofbat.

    "You aren''t terrible!" Abel eximed with his lips stretched from ear to ear until his teeth were showing, moving forward as both their weapons were in between them. "Exciting!"

    Fabian smiled until his eyes looked like thin lines. "It has been indeed a while since I dueled with someone without holding back."

    "Are you saying my nephew isбн just as disappointing as I thought he was?"

    "He doesn''t enjoy fighting that much."

    "Tardy, is he?"

    "Arrogant."

    Abelughed, hopping back several meters from Fabian, and thetter also did. "I am not surprised. Our family is just full of strange people."

    "I am very much aware." Fabian kept his smile.

    At this point, for some reason, the two of them found this same equilibrium during their fierce exchange of blows. No one could really understand how things went down between them. Unlike the first impression, they were more tolerant of each other''s presence.

    "Anyway, should I kill you in here?" Abel cocked his head to the side, eyes with pure curiosity.

    Fabian only smiled, and when he blinked, Abel was already charging in front of him. However, he didn''t move and simply closed his eyes not to anticipate the pain. He did because he felt something on the other side of this world.

    Abel''s fingers were stretched and wereing at Fabian''s head. But inches before he could grab his face, his palm stopped, hovering two inches from Fabian''s face. Abel tilted his head to the side, blinking almost innocently.

    "That is not fair, Fabian," said Abelzily. "How can you just leave me here like that?"

    "It was nice meeting you, Your Majesty, but I think you should wake up. That sister of yours is a sneaky demon. I can feel her in here as well," Fabian spoke with his eyes closed, making Abel frown. "I''ll see you on the other side."

    "I kinda want to y with him since fighting him makes Maleficent''s aura less repugnant," mumbled Abel, watching Fabian fall on his back and thennded on the ground with a thud. He gazed down, watching Fabian''s body dissipate in the air like dust until it decreased in opacity.

    It didn''t take long when the man lying on his back was gone, as if he wasn''t there in the first ce.

    Abel let out a shallow breath, blinking, eyes on the ground. "What a nice person," he mused under his breath, lifting his eyes to look around. "Perhaps I was overthinking. Maleficent didn''t feel that much repelling once I get used to her presence."

    For a fact, Abel was certain if Aries awakened her witch there would be problems between them. He wasn''t sure what exactly, but he could barely stand Fabian at first. And the fact that Fabian was simply the holder of a small part of Maleficent was rming.<sub> </sub>

    But after dueling with Fabian, Abel felt slightly at ease. He could take it; he had to if he didn''t want to lose his wife, the love of his life, and his one and only.

    "Well." Abel looked around to search for Conan, only to see him shing with Maximus. He didn''t dwell on them as his eyes searched the area.

    <strong>Marse was gone. </strong>

    "That little devil." Abel stretched his neck from one side to the other, closing his eyes as he drew a deep breath. "I guess it''s time to go back."

    Abel kept his eyes shut, stopping his own heart from beating to wake himself in the real world. But s, he didn''t wake up. When he reopened his eyes, he was still standing on the vast expanse. Conan and Maximus were still fighting.

    "Conan!" he yelled and that second, Maximus''s bodynded on the ground. Fire filled Abel''s eyes, setting his gaze on the thick dust that ascend over Maximus'' body.

    "Your Majesty," called Conan,nding several feet from Conan. "What is it?"

    "A problem." Abel''s eyes sharpened, watching Maximus''s silhouette from behind the thick dust. Before he could tell Conan the problem, they heard Maximus'' evilughter. Both of them kept their eyes on thetter until Maximus stepped out of the thick smoke.

    "Time." Maximus shook his head while maintaining eye contact with the two. "I had said it before, Abel. I had been waiting for this day for a very long time."

    His lips stretched into a sinister grin until his teeth were showing and his eyes glinting. "Do you think your little game will work? I had considered every probable route you can all do together."

    "I''ve been watching, Abel. From the start until now," he continued,ughing with his lips closed. "Do you think everything is purely out of coincidence? Your meeting, and how you were there before that night of the summit? Or should I say how those ropes that restrained her for years came off?"

    Deep lines formed in between Abel and Conan''s brows, absorbing Maximus''s words like a sponge. Both men understood what Maximus was pertaining to.

    In the past, back when Aries just stepped foot in the empire, she had dreams. In that dream, Aries was in a cage and Abel came into the room where her cage was. They talked a bit, and he encourage her to meet him. It was already in the past and barely held no purpose, but now that Maximus was speaking about it, a realization struck Abel and Conan.

    That summit, Aries, and their meeting weren''t purely a coincidence.

    As these realizations dawned on Abel and Conan, they felt these invisible strings attached to their joints. For some reason, Maximus felt bigger than a giant, like a master puppeteer, making everyone dance to his tune.

    "Motherfuckerбн" whispered Abel, but now he couldn''t smile. "... now, you''ve done it."

    Maximus'' smirk stretched wider, sensing more forceing out of Abel''s back. But instead of panic, his eyes were filled with excitement, spreading his arms wide open.

    "Come, Wrath!" Maximus taunted loudly. "Dance!"

 Chapter 714 Trouble

    <strong>[ Banquet Hall ]</strong>

    "La ga taбн"

    <strong>Thud!</strong>

    The chanting continued, hearing bodies falling onto the ground one after another. The night council and the guests who weren''t part of it had to lend Aries theirplete energy to support her. They had been giving it to her all night, making others pass out when they couldn''t take it anymore.

    It was a dangerous spell to execute, but even if it was, they gave no hesitation in supporting Aries. The empress of the empire might''ve made them agree through a deal, but they knew her goal was to protect theirnd, their home, especially thend where witches were not purged.

    <strong>Thud!</strong>

    Marcia Graves chanted under her breath, opening her eyes, and seeing multiple people on the ground. Almost half of them fainted. She lifted her eyes, only to see those who were still conscious looking at each other. Their lips continued to move; some were having a nosebleed, while others were just as pale as a white sheet.

    <strong>''We were almost there,'' </strong>crossed Marcia''s mind, thinking that they could almost feel Maleficent''s presence in this spell. She turned her head in the royal''s direction, only to see Suzanne standing beside the empty seat of the empress.

    Suzanne kept a stony countenance. There was no trace of emotions on the handmaiden''s face. She held Marcia''s gaze emotionlessly, not bothering about what was going on inside the mind of the Wan leader at the moment.

    <strong>Thud!</strong>

    Another body fell to the ground, but Suzanne and Marcia didn''t look away from each other. When two more night council fell on the ground, Marcia peeled her gaze from Suzanne.

    <strong>Five. </strong>

    Marcia didn''t need to count to know the number of people who were still standing and chanting, including her. And all those who remained standing were witches gifted with incredible mana and had honed their witch for years.

    "La brak she li maбн" Marcia blinked, only to hear another one fall. Her grip was carefully clenched, opening her eyes ever so tenderly. As soon as she did, another thud caressed her ears and their chanting volume down.

    Now, they were down to three people: Two Wan Leaders which was Marcia and Gloria, and another young witch. Marcia moved her eyes to the young witch, who had always been exceptional in the coven.

    That youngdy, who was barely showing signs of exhaustion, was Bertha. If Marcia remembered correctly, Bertha was the first to approach Aries, or rather, Leon, that night of the coven with Abel. Bertha wasn''t a member of the night council, but she earned a spot in the full moon coven to kill Abel.

    "Re wo shiбн" Marcia''s thoughts trailed off, shifting her attention to the other Wan leader, Gloria, who had always shed with Marcia. Gloria was a powerful witch and also a wise one. They might have tons of disagreements, but Gloria earned Marcia''s respect over the years.

    Never once did Marcia had ever seen this proud leader show the slightest weakness. Gloria was that proud, and it was her defense mechanism not to show weakness because women like them had gone through hell and back before they met Abel and became a member of the night council.

    Gloria coughed out blood, covering her mouth with her hand, but Marcia already saw the blood. She tried continuing just because she didn''t want to faint before Marcia or this young witch, but Gloria eventually fell to the ground after several seconds.

    Now, there were just the two of them.<sub> </sub>

    Under normal circumstances, Marcia would praise the young witch forsting this long. Even Gloria fainted, showing how hard this spell was to perform, even though they were simply supporting Aries and not entirely the people who had to maintain the Maleficent World.

    But they had to continue this until Aries''s powers were ripe. They were almost there, after all. Almost. Close. Just a bit more.

    Marcia watched the young witch raise her eyes back to her. No words were uttered between them, but both women had the same understanding of what they had to do.

    <strong>Continue. </strong>

    Both women closed their eyes, raising the volume of their chanting as they added more power to each of their words. They knew they were also reaching their limits, but they couldn''t fall now. They didn''te this far to juste this far. If they fall before Maleficent''s awakening, everything would go down the drain.

    Aries had to seed. Abel too.

    The women''s determination was apparent in Suzanne''s perspective. Suzanne never moved a muscle from her spot, watching everyone fall one after another. All her focus was to make sure someone would stay in here and continue everything until Abel woke up or Ariese back.

    <strong>''Your Majesty,'' </strong>called Suzanne in her head, clenching her teeth silently. <strong>''These witches were already at their limits.''</strong>

    Minutes had gone by and Marcia started to have nosebleeds. Meanwhile, the young witch was already swaying, barely keeping her bnce. Just how much more powers did they have to give Aries for Aries to awaken?

    Suzanne didn''t know. She had no idea. But what she was certain was that if thesest two witches fell before Aries''s awakening, uncertainty would follow. Their n would surely go downhill, and everything would just be pure chaos.

    "I have to do somethingбн" Suzanne trailed off, shifting her eyes at the entrance of the banquet hall the second the door creaked. Marcia and the young witch Bertha didn''t stop chanting and kept their focus on the spell. Thus, they couldn''t care less about their surrounding.

    Suzanne''s expression turned colder, eyes on the person stepping inside the banquet hall.

    <strong>Marse. </strong>

    She had seen this woman once as Aries''sdy-in-waiting, but then, Aries told Suzanne Marse was actually Abel''s sister in passing. Aries didn''t say much about Marse as thetter just suddenly disappeared after Aries''s coronation.

    However, now that Marse was here and looking back at Suzanne, the empress''sdy-in-waiting was certain about one thing.

    <strong>Trouble. </strong>

    The corner of Marse''s lips curled up into a sinister smirk, guessing Suzanne''s thought as the empress''s handmaiden showed everything on her face.

    <strong>''But what else can you do?'' </strong>Marse mouthed ever so slowly so Suzanne could read her lips. <strong>''Stop me?''</strong>

 Chapter 715 Last Moments

    <strong>''But what else can you do?''</strong> Marse mouthed ever so slowly so Suzanne could read her lips. <strong>''Stop me?''</strong>

    Suzanne balled her hands into tight fists, ncing at the unsuspecting Marcia and Bertha. Marse''s taunting made Suzanne recall Aries''s words. That was right. What else could Suzanne do before a monster like Marse?

    <strong>''Even soбн'' </strong>Suzanne lowered her eyes before lifting her gaze back to the woman several steps from the entrance<strong>. ''... I have to do something.''</strong>

    At the back of Suzanne''s head, she was aware she was no match against Marse. She was but a human, assisting the empress with everything she could. Butбн she had to do something. Perhaps a few seconds was enough to buy the witches sometimeбн

    Her thoughts abruptly put to a halt when Marse suddenly appeared a step before her. Her pupils slowly dted, looking back at those lustful pairs of eyes that mirrored Suzanne''s horrified expression.

    "You''re not buying even a second of their time, youngdy." Marse simpered, leaning her beautiful face closer to Suzanne''s. "Youбн of all people, should know that."

    Suzanne held her breath, unable to move a muscle before Marse.

    <strong>Death. </strong>

    <strong>End. </strong>

    Those words instantly hovered in Suzanne''s head as she admitted Marse''s words were facts. Suzanne was only useful in supporting Aries''s schemes, but not when Aries was on a battlefield.

    Marse''s eyes fell on Suzanne''s taut neck, licking her lips seductively. "I am famishedбн that damned Abel deprived me of everything."

    <strong>''Your Majesty.'' </strong>Suzanne''s eyes softened as Marse''s hot breaths caressed her neck. She knew what was about to happen, but her body didn''t listen to her fight back. It was futile. Hence, all she could think of was Aries''s smile during azy afternoon while having tea.

    Aries was beautiful; the most stunning woman Suzanne had ever seen. The empress went through many things, but she proved to everyone her past made her stronger. Fighting her own demons and never backing down in the face of problems was something Suzanne had always admired about Aries.

    She was thest thought that crossed Suzanne''s mind; her smile, the look in Aries''s eyes that often told Suzanne thetter was seen and valued.

    Warmth enveloped Suzanne''s body as she heard gulps echoing in her ear, clutching Marse''s back as thetter sucked the life out of her. Her eyes were staring at the ceiling and her vision turned blurry with the tears coating her soft eyes.

    "Your Majesty, it was an honor," whispered Suzanne softly and bitterly. <strong>''How I wish to serve you longer.'' </strong>

    Suzanne fought her dwindling consciousness, thinking of Aries for as long as she could to stay awake<strong>. ''Marse was wrong,'' </strong>thought Suzanne. She could buy enough time for everyone. Her methods might not be wielding a sword and forcing Marse out of this ce, but staying awake while Marse drinks thest bit of her blood was enough to call stalling time.

    Suzanne''s skin shrunk as herplexion turned paler with every passing second. Coldness reced the warmth in her heart, seeping deep into the depths of her bones. Her eyes soon turned pale as the life in them slowly faded.

    <strong>Thud!</strong><sub> </sub>

    "Hahбн" Marse wiped the blood on the corner of her lips with the back of her fist, pushing Suzanne''s body to the side. Her eyes fell on Suzanne''s body; thetter was left with barely any skin and bones. Yet Suzanne''s gaunt face looked at peace.

    "Useless bitch," Marse spat out in irritation. "Why fight death when you know you''re dying, anyway?"

    The thought that Suzanne proved Marse wrong didn''t sit well with this demoness. But Marse didn''t dwell on it, kicking Suzanne to vent her frustration, and then turning on her heel to face Marcia and Bertha.

    "Imend you for continuing, despite knowing what is happening." Marse pped slowly, but the two witches continued to chant with their eyes shut. "Amazing witches! You women remind me of this crazy bitch Vera бк right, right? Whatever, Vera. Just stay still and be obedient, alright? Cursing the life out of me will not make a difference."

    Marse knocked her head in irritation to shut up the voice screaming in her head. "Woman, you are so annoying. Seriously!"

    While Marse was having a conversation with herself, Marcia and Bertha didn''t get affected by her craziness. Marse could just lose her mind for all they care. Although they felt a little sorry about Suzanne, they gritted their teeth.

    Suzanne died, and once Aries heard about this, all hell would break loose.

    So, they couldn''t stop now, they had to seed.

    But how?

    They still need a bit of time. Just a few more minutes. They could only hope Marse would talk to herself for several more minutes, or let that witch inside Marse''s body distract Marse a little more. Because if Marse assaulted them, Marcia and Bertha were aware they wouldn''t be able to fight back.

    Their chanting grew faster and more aggressive, creating a strong gust of wind inside the banquet hall. To hasten the process, Marcia and Bertha silently agreed on increasing the release of mana. And to do that, they had to sacrifice their time. Meaning, their life.

    "Finally, she shut up!" Marse suddenly eximed in relief, and that made the chanting even louder and faster. She arched a brow, darting her eyes between Marcia and Bertha. "I have an idea."

    Mischief and malice crossed Marse''s eyes, and soon enough, she began chanting the same spell. However, even though she was almost saying the same spell, she tweaked it to y with the witches. With her interruption of the spell, Bertha and Marcia had to fight it back on top of sending Aries the energy she needed to awaken her witch.

    Both witches were breathless with the amount of pressure crushing on them, only to feel relief momentster. They didn''t check what was going on, but they knew what had just happened.

    Meanwhile, Marse arched a brow as the two slightly rxed. She stopped, frowning, ncing up. All she saw was a transparent barrier glinting, moving her eyes to her side to see the person who put her in a small barrier to muffle her voice.

    There, standing on the side, was Isaiah, with Sunny clinging to his side.

    "Oh, Mister Warlock." No one heard Marse''s voice outside the barrier, but Isaiah could read her mouth. "You''re here?"

 Chapter 716 [Bonus Chapter]

    "Oh, Mister Warlock." No one heard Marse''s voice outside the barrier, but Isaiah could read her mouth. "You''re here?"

    Isaiah had his hands open while blood dripped from his fingertips. The scar on the back of his hand glowed brightly, but instead of appearing amazing, it looked painful. Locking Marse inside a barrier was hard since she was powerful, but he had to.

    "My, my. What a pitiful bunch." Marse clicked her tongue continuously, shaking her head, and nting her hand on the transparent barrier. "Grand Duke, you shouldn''t keep me locked up in here. I mean, do you even know what will happen if Maleficent awakened?"

    Isaiah didn''t respond, but he could easily read what Marse was saying.

    The corner of her lips curled up into a smirk. "I''m just trying to help my brother since Maximus slightly irked me. You guys shouldn''t be doing this spell. You know, that''s what Maximus wanted."

    There was a part of Isaiah that slightly waned upon Marse''s remarks, but he didn''t give in. Marse would say anything to put doubt in people''s hearts. Isaiah trusted Abel and Aries.

    "She''s saying the truth."

    Suddenly, Isaiah heard Sunny''s tiny voice on his side. He gazed down to this side, only to see Sunny sporting a solemn front that had a tinge of horror as if a realization dawned on her.

    "Marse is telling the truth," Sunny repeated as panic suddenly dominated her face, turning to Marcia and Bertha. "Stop бк!"

    Just as Sunny yelled, her voice was cut off as her heart thudded, almost making her soul leave her body abruptly. At that same moment, Bertha and Marcia stopped chanting, falling on the floor with a thud.

    The two seeded, but this sess wasn''t for Aries''s side, but for the enemy.

    The barrier surrounding Marse slowly vanished, allowing herughter to echo in the great hall. Marse was hunching in, arms on her abdomen, back trembling. When she straightened her spine, she raised her chin, eyes down on Isaiah and Sunny.

    "Oh, look at your faces," was the first thing she said, spreading her arms wide open in joy. "How I wish to see my brother''s expression as realization kicks in."

    As herughter subsided, the corner of her lips curled up into a sinister smirk. Her eyes moved in Abel''s direction, seeing her brother sitting on the chair with his eyes shut.

    "Sleep tight, my brother dear. Let''s not see each other anymore." Marse smirked, shifting her attention to Isaiah and Sunny.

    The moment she met Isaiah''s eyes, thetter immediately squatted to pick up Sunny.

    "Let''s go!" he yelled without any exnation, taking Sunny away from here before Aries бк who seemed to have awakened her witch бк would harm everyone.

    "Run and hide!" As Isaiah skipped from space to space with Sunny in his arms, he could still hear Marse''s echoing screams. "But there is no ce we will not find you!"

    Isaiah ground his teeth, pulling Sunny into his embrace protectively. Meanwhile, Sunny''s dted and nk eyes kept them over his shoulder. She watched Marseugh evilly while Isaiah took her away.

    Little Sunny didn''t say anything, but her expression said it all.

    Everything turned for the worse which no one expected.

    <strong>***********</strong>

    <strong>Meanwhileбн</strong>

    "Watch out!"

    Aries snapped her eyes, flinching slightly as a dark spear pierced through the ground several steps from her. Her gaze moved up slowly, catching Third hop several steps back from the ck spear.

    "Maleficent," she whispered, having this strong emotion in her heart that was the same as what she felt the second she met Fabian.<sub> </sub>

    "My empress, why did you even ask to stay behind if you will just stand there?" Fabian''s voice came to her side, wrapped his fingers around the dark spear, and pulled it out of the ground. When she shifted her attention to him, Fabian cocked his head to the side.

    "You''re not helping me, my empress," he rified, smiling. "Marse is, uhmбн somewhereбн"

    Fabian raised his head, setting his eyes in the banquet''s direction. "Ah. There. In the banquet. She''ll kill everyone."

    <strong>''How can he keep his cool after knowing things might go the wrong way?''</strong> she wondered, but then again, she got her answer immediately.

    The problems here were mainly Aries and the people of the empire. Fabian''s issue was something personal. Therefore, it was only natural for him to not care about others.

    "I know," Aries whispered, sadness resurfacing in her eyes, keeping her attention on Maximus. "Suzanne is a very sweetdy."

    "You are vicious." Fabian pointed out, peeling his eyes from her. "You knew giving her the spot of thedy-in-waiting will put her in great danger, yet you still did. You''re born evil."

    "Thanks for reminding me, Reverend."

    Fabian chuckled with his lips closed. "Your sarcasm is quite funny."

    "Cover for me, Fabian." Aries abruptly changed the topic, sizing up Maximus from head to toe. "Marcia and Bertha are also there."

    "Are you sure they were and not just because of my spear?"

    "Just do it."

    Fabian''s eyes squinted, but his smile showed more irritation than happiness. "Don''t order me around. I wield Maleficent, not the other way around."

    "You wield what is stolen." She cast him a side-eye. "Though I do not have any intentions of taking that rotten thing back, I need the rest."

    "I''ll take that as a promise, then." His eyes glinted, taking a step whilst spinning the dark spear as if it was simply an extension of his body. "Do not break it."

    The moment those words rolled out of Fabian''s tongue, the ground underneath his feet cracked, creating a hollow. He then catapulted towards Third like a bolt of lightning, keeping the man busy while Aries gather the energy in the empire.

    Aries stood still in the same spot, looking heavenward. The energy in the air wasn''t visible, but she could feel it slowly dominating the air, condensing into one giant ball that slowly embraced her body. It slowly took the oxygen around her until it suffocated her, leaving her gasping.

    "Ahбн" Her mouth fell open. It felt as though the energy was going inside her mouth, choking on her own breath, eyes turning red. Aries groped her neck as she gagged, and then another minute passed, and her body slowly fell to the ground with a thud.

    <strong>CLASH!</strong>

    Fabian hopped back several steps from Third, ncing over his shoulder, seeing Aries unconscious on the ground. In his mind, he was uncertain if that was part of her n, or if she just couldn''t take the energy that was lent to her.

    "Hahaбн" Fabian arched his brow upon hearing Third''sughter, setting his eyes back on the man. "... oh, Maleficent. I want her back, but it seemed her power''s new host was stronger than expected."

    Third smirked at his opponent, detecting the slight confusion in thetter''s eyes. "I had always thought you were amazing, Fabian. However, you are just nothing, a nobody without that spear."

    That moment, Fabian nced at his dark spear, seeing the dark shroud slowly drift away, heading to Aries behind him. His breath suspended, looking back, only to realize the dark shroud that initially surrounded his spear floated to Aries.

    The dark shroud surrounded her unconscious body, lifting her until her feet left the ground. All Fabian saw was Aries opening her eyes to reveal the dark glow in them. A dark tear rolled down to her side. Her tear was akin to a sharp de, tearing her skin to show cracks on the side of her face down to her neck.

    "You haveбн broken your promiseбн" Fabian breathed out, keeping his sharp, thin eyes on Aries''s figure that was mid-air. "... Aries."

 Chapter 717 Everything Was Planned Since The Beginning

    Fabian Barrett. That was his name.

    A young boy who was born in the slums of abandonednd. Growing up, Fabian was weak and was nothing but prey for the strong. If not for his older brother, Fabian would''ve died a long time ago. However, due to this, his brother had to resort to extreme ways just so no one would hurt his little brother.

    Guilty for being the cause of his brother''s misfortune, who could''ve achieved much more in life than his daily brawls, Fabian left home. Now a young man, the young fellow had to find ways to survive all on his own or perhaps, just die since dying was just as dreadful as living. But instead of finding ways to die or live, Fabian just lost his sanity in this cruel, wild world.

    That was when he met her.

    A woman who stretched her bloodstained hands to him, offering him powers and control in his hand. All he had to do was hold her hand.

    So like any man trapped in his own mind and helplessness, he reached his hand out to her. The moment his fingers wrapped around her bloodstained hand, her lips curled into a crafty smirk, and that was when he knew he was selling his soul to the devil.

    This woman, who never told him her name, taught him cruel things. For instance, she was the one who taught him where to hit to kill his opponent instantly, or what to do to incapacitate someone without killing them. She showed him methods, paving the bloody path, which he took willingly until he reached a position he never thought he would ever reach.

    A king''s henchman.

    In exchange for the power and control the woman had given him, his end of the bargain was to cause problems for the king. However, the king wasn''t his real target, but the Queen. Her name was Ameria Grimsbanne La Crox.

    In the shadows, a slight maniption could lead to an unimaginable turn of events until the royal family fell apart. Many rtionships were ruined, and by some twisted humor fate had thrown at him, Fabian''s brother had this special affair with another royal.

    It was toote for Fabian to back out because Maleficent, the spear this witch gave him had brought out his lustful desire for blood. Without ying someone, Fabian was certain this weapon would devour him. The souls trapped in the ckening spear would devour him, to be exact.

    Knowing his path was a one-way route, Fabian had to put matters in his hands. With his awareness of the fate of the royal family, he had to ruin his brother''s rtionship with a princess, andplete the end of his bargain.

    There was only one way to gain full control and that was to be able to wield Maleficent''s with total dominance. For himself and for the brother he had wronged, Fabian willingly took the viin role in the dark.

    Everything was clear to himбн but what he and this witch didn''t expect was a prince emerging from hell and taking matters into his hands. If not for this prince, Fabian was certain he wouldn''t be standing in this empire with the intention to see a little girl. Perhaps, he would end up tagging along with this witch named Marse.

    <strong>''I had done many, many things for Maleficent,'' </strong>whispered Fabian in his head, watching the dark shroud envelope Aries''s body and lift her up. <strong>''And yet, you dare take it away from me.''</strong><sub> </sub>

    It wasn''t like Fabian didn''t have an idea of what could''ve happened. The moment he stepped foot in this empire andid his eyes on Aries for the first time, he knew he shouldn''t see her eye to eye. He came for Sunny, not to cause trouble or be forced into the passivity of the situation.

    He loathed that the most.

    The reason Fabian idled for half a year, keeping his distance, and checking Sunny''s well-being from time to time. His young miss was spoiled within the royal pce and the emperor was very fond of her, so he didn''t have the urge to take her away.

    What more? The brewing tension behind the empire was too distinct that even an outsider like him could feel it. But then with Maximus''s arrival, Fabian already guessed he couldn''t avoid these people like always. He had to show his face one way or another: first, to protect his little miss, Sunny. And then the second was to find a way to co-exist with the other holder of Maleficent, instead of outright killing each other.

    "You had broken your promise, Aries," Fabian breathed out, unfazed by the piercing scream Aries unleashed which carried a strong gust of wind.

    The dark shroud enveloping his spear slowly disappeared, leaving it like a normal spear. Although there was still thin darkness surrounding it, holding it didn''t give the same pang and bite that Fabian was used to.

    <strong>Now, it all made sense, </strong>he thought.

    Maleficent as a whole was a power on its own. It could be used for good if the holder was good by nature. But since Fabian, who wielded the dark spear and fed it with people''s souls,ments, grudges, and his victim''s darkness, it granted a baseline of the path Maleficent would take once it returned to its original owner.

    <strong>Darkness.</strong>

    Surely, Maximus and Marse had thought this through for many years since it had been a long time since Fabian imed ownership of this spear. Using Aries, who went through hell in the Maganti Empire, this darkness she had suppressed sted out uncontrobly.

    Aries''s screams created shockwaves across the empire, causing tremors on the ground. <strong>Pain, unimaginable pain. </strong>That was what her screams sounded until they slowly sounded angry.

    Fabian had to cover one of his ears to muffle the noise as her screams shattered all the windows in the imperial pce and everything fragile.

    Fabian held his breath, ignoring Third''s maniacalughter behind him. He kept his eyes on Aries, and much to his surprise, the dark shroud that didn''t enter her body formed into ck wings on her back. The screams stopped, but the echoes continued.

    "Now I feel bad for my new friend. It seems I won''t be able to see him for quite some time," mumbled Fabian, thinking that Abel was in for a wild rest.

 Chapter 718 I Never Break My Promises, Fabian.

    "Now I feel bad for my new friend. It seems I won''t be able to see him for quite some time."

    Aries slowly descended on the ground, eyes still glowing with ck. The darkness in her eyes slowly faded, only to reveal a pair of cold eyes. She kept her eyes on Fabian, saying nothing.

    "Maleficent --" Third stopped mid-sentence as a force assaulted his abdomen, sending him flying. He couldn''t react quickly, crashing into the Forbidden Mansion mercilessly.

    "Too loud," was all Aries said, eyes locked with Fabian. "Now, better."

    "Won''t you let them go?" asked Fabian, cocking his head to the side, referring to those who were trapped in Maleficent''s world.

    "I promised everyone I will give them a good life," Aries dawdled, sauntering towards Fabian. She stopped at arm''s length, scanning his sharp but refined facial features. "This world is so much cruel, is it not? In my world, they will have peace. There will be no wars, no problems, and no deaths. It will give them happiness."

    "Happiness... that is not something you can give or enforce to people, mydy."

    "But I am their queen." Aries took a step forward, nting her hand on his chest. "You wielded me for many years, Fabian. You understand everyone''s suffering; you''ve seen it. This world is unfair but in my world? They were all equal."

    "Who are you?" Fabian narrowed his eyes, tilting his head to the side. Her touch was familiar as he had held his dark spear for a very long time, but the look in her eyes was foreign. It was hard to point it out. "Maleficent? Aries?"

    "I am both. The one they both denied because they senselessly believed in the false goodness that was left in them. That goodness doesn''t exist, Fabian. It was taken, stolen from them. You should''ve known that if only you do not deny reality."

    "I never denied reality."

    "Until youid your eyes on me." Aries lifted her chin, her tone full of certainty. "You never denied reality until you saw me, and told yourself, you will rather die than follow and believe someone like Marse."

    "I am not Marse, though." She shook her head sideways. "I don''t n on using you to mess with someone just because she was envious of her sister."

    Aries closed in, eyes still locked with his. She then pressed a finger on his firm chest, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly.

    "I am better than Marse, than Maximus, than the Grimsbanne. The Barrett blood that runs inside that body knows that very well." The corner of her lips curled up subtly. "Peace... is the only thing I seek. But these people simply ruin everything I had prepared for them."

    "I offered kindness and they returned it with vileness. They robbed me of everything, vite me as they pleased, kill me over and over, and implicate those who followed me." Sadness and anger swirled in her eyes as she frowned. "I am done with it, Fabian. I am so done with their tactlessness, like children, who never had an idea how to do things right."

    "So you nned to trap everyone in that world?"

    "Trap is such a big word that gives the wrong idea, my dearest." Aries shook her head, barely blinking. "I am offering them a new life. A life that is ten times better than the one we all knew."

    "Their bodies will die."

    "Does that matter? They can still feel everything and taste everything. They breathe and live. It''s almost the same. What''s the difference?"

    Fabian assessed Aries, pressing his lips into a thin line. Ayer of chill coated his countenance, understanding how twisted and blinded she was at the moment. Aries didn''t lie when she said she was both Maleficent and Aries.

    Aries was never a good person. She was someone who was trying so hard to y her demons, to make herself believe her past didn''t haunt her until now. Her traumatic past... would never grant her peace, especially, if the life she had chosen never knew the face of peace.

    So this was Aries with all her darkness amplified that her rationality was clouded, meant to never see the sunrise.

    "They don''t die," answered Fabian calmly. "That''s the difference."

    "Was it bad?"

    <strong>Yes. Of course. </strong>Death was a part of the life cycle. Time and growth as well, but he figured there was no point in talking sense with her. This wasn''t the right time for that.<sub> </sub>

    "You can kill me now." Fabian raised both his hands to his side as a gesture of surrender. "I think we''ve lost."

    "No, we haven''t. We''re just starting." Aries shook her head, tilting her upper body to the side, smiling. "I still have to deal with that demon over there. I wonder if he and Marse would be useful or... if they were better off dead."

    "I won''t be useful."

    Aries straightened her back, smiling at Fabian. "You will be, Fabian. I will never waste a talent like you."

    The moment those words rolled out of her tongue, a dark shroud slowly enveloped Fabian''s spear once again until he could feel Maleficent''s incredible darkness. Fabian nced at his spear and deep lines appeared in between them.

    "I never break my promises, Fabian." Her soft voice made him face her squarely once again. "I didn''t n to take it away from you. At least, not permanently."

    "Don''t be angry anymore." Aries cupped his lean cheek and smiled. "I didn''t mean to tease you like that."

    His in countenance remained the same, keeping his eyes on her. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, satisfied that she didn''t take away his beloved weapon. Although there was now a slight difference from this dark spear.

    <strong>He could feel, hear, and know her heart. </strong>

    "What do you want me to do, Aries?" his lips parted, breathing out his words calmly.

    His question put a smile on her face. "Seize them." Her eyelids dropped, smirking. "All of them."

    "As you wished."

    <strong>**********************</strong>

    <strong>[ Maleficent''s World ]</strong>

    "Aries!!!!" Abel growled his lungs out, standing in the middle of the banquet hall to see that Aries''s body wasn''t in there anymore. Joaquin was beaten and breathing heavily on the side, but Dexter, with whom he shed with already disappeared.

    "Aries Grimsbanne." Abel''s eyes zed, looking around at the banquet that was turned upside down as a result of Dexter and Joaquin''s fierce duel. He balled his hand into a tight fist, grinding his teeth, knowing he would be trapped in this world without her.

    "Your Majesty." Conan gulped, staring at Abel''s side profile. "It seemed the only way out of this world is for Isaiah to find a way."

    Abel was aware of that, but his body still trembled in anger at the thought.

    "She better be prepared once I get out of here..." Abel breathed out, voice shaking with unspeakable anger. He stretched his neck from one side to the other. "... I''ll lock her up next time."

    Conan''s jaw tightened, studying the invisible fire enveloping Abel''s body. He looked around. Everything was a mess, and the guests were still unconscious on the floor.

    <strong>''It seemed we would be in deep slumber until someone in the real world does something,''</strong> came into Conan''s eyes, letting out a deep sigh, certain they would be in here for some time... or forever.

    There was no telling.

    They could only hope those who were left in the real world like Isaiah could do something about this problem.

    Until then... they could only leave everything to fate.

    <strong>-- END OF VOLUME 4 --</strong>

 Chapter 719 Her Majesty

    <strong>[ WELCOME TO VOLUME 5: The Grimsbanne ]</strong>

    There was once a time everyone knew about the Haimirich Empire, or at least, heard about it once in their life. Haimirich Empire was known for its advanced technology and prosperousnd. There was never a time anyone heard that Haimirich Empire would go into battle ande back as a loser.

    That empire was untouchable and it all just seemed a glorious nation would not go down anytime soon. With an emperor as clever and heartless who ruled the empire with an iron fist, there were only two routes any other rulers could take: one was to be his ally, or second, stay away.

    However, for an empire as big as the Haimirich Empire, how could it fall overnight and as silently as a wind at that?

    No one knew what happened. Matter of fact, no one remembered that there was a time this Empire once stood gloriously at the top.

    All they all knew now was fables, evolving stories to fill one''s curiosity regarding this abandonednd that showed evidence of life before it somehow became a ghost town. One story would say because of how bad life was in thisnd, many deserted it one after another, leaving their homes just like that. Another story would say that one particr night, everyone just fell asleep, never to awaken again.

    Some curious individuals would sometimes set foot on thisnd, and their stories would just never match. This was due to the fact that some of them saw an emptynd, yet, everything was well-maintained. Others'' experience was the total opposite. For them, thisnd they stepped on to investigate was just nothing but full of skeletons and remains, and the empty street along with the silent howl of the wind simply sent dread down their spine.

    With this discovery, another story emerged regarding thisnd and was granted a title of its own.

    <strong>The damned nation. </strong>

    The story initially stated that the experience in this ce would differ depending on the person. But like any other story, it evolved from mouth to mouth, until everyone just deemed this ce and one mustn''t cross. Unless, of course, they were prepared for the worse.

    And that used to lure people to gain citizenship for a better life, was now eschewed by many. They wouldn''t even talk about it

    "But there was also this version of the story."

    Inside a tavern, a man propped his elbow on the surface of the table. His brawny arm flexed, moving his finger as a gesture for two travelers to move their ears closer.

    "There were many versions of this story about thatnd, but this is my personal opinion that this version just sounds and kinda makes sense." The man cleared his throat as his expression turned solemn. "They said that this cursed kingdom was once prosperousnd, but then, a witch came one evening and cursed the emperor. Many specte it was because the emperor didn''t return her love, so out of spite, she cursed the emperor and the entirend."

    "Just think of this," he continued as his voice lowered, looking around warily. "The maind suddenly appeared out of nowhere, but then, many kingdoms supports it and willingly got absorbed. It''s ridiculous how this smallnd that appeared out of nowhere is now one of the strongest kingdoms."

    "If the reason isn''t as shallow as this love and spite, it could be because Her Majesty saw whoever the ruler of the cursednd as a threat. So she took him down first to get what she wanted," he added with a tinge of certainty in his own conclusion.

    Somehow, the man was confident about this argument. After all, the day one discovered the cursed kingdom, was only months after the establishment of this empire called the <strong>Maind.</strong> It didn''t have any name as everyone just called it the Maind and it was ruled by a woman with no name. Hence, many would call her Queen, Her Majesty, Empress, or whatever the hell they see fit.<sub> </sub>

    In it, the Queen introduced the existence of vampires, werewolves, witches, and otherworldly creatures. The information brought fear to many people except those royals who already knew about their existence.

    The first thing that this Queen did upon establishing the Maind was to spread her word. All kings all over the world received the same message from her.

    <strong>"I do not mean harm nor do I seek to bring fear on you and your people. You have my word. So I expect the same from you."</strong>

    It was a simple message, but it said a lot about what sort of person the woman sitting on the throne of the maind. She wouldn''t provoke anyone, but she could retaliate in the most disastrous way possible.

    <strong>[ Do not provoke me. ]</strong>

    That was the simplest form of her greetings. Hence, the establishment was smooth without people raising questions or protesting about what sort of people there were on the maind. Furthermore, with already establishednds like Maganti Empire and its currently strongest state Rikhill bowing to the Queen, and the Chivisea Dynasty that was also expecting a Queen in the future, many just epted the Maind.

    "You know, saying all this is dangerous. No one can provoke Her Majesty. It''s like she has eyes and ears everywhere." The man cleared his throat, hinting at the two travelers that he was risking his life just by telling them all his knowledge regarding this cursed kingdom and the sudden appearance of the rapidly growing maind.

    The two travelers frowned, looking at each other before one of the travelers tossed a small pouch over the table. The man grinned, picking it up. He checked the contents of it and his lips stretched in satisfaction.

    "What else do you want to know?" he asked excitedly as if he wasn''t as terrified and wary as he sounded moments ago.

    Little did they know, a man sitting on the corner table was listening to this man''s tale to the travelers. His silver hair was peeking out of his hood, setting his pair of crimson eyes at the woman across from him.

    "Sounds dramatic, don''t you think?" asked the silver-haired man to the woman as his lips curled up into to smirk.

    "I wonderбн" the woman''s pair of greens shone as a portion of her curly hazel hair fell forward as she picked up her ss of booze. "... how many truths are in there in all those fables?"

    The man leaned forward. "Want to make a visit?"

    "Isn''t that why we''re here, Sam?" the woman arched a brow, gazing at the handsome man across her. "To find out the truth and see what Fabian was up to, ying as the Queen''s henchman?"

    The two of them looked at each other, nodding mildly, having this silent agreement to uncover the mystery enveloping the cursed kingdom that has a strong connection to the maind.

 Chapter 720 Tea And Biscuits

    Haimirich Empire. And once gazed at with awe and respect from afar, now a ce people wouldn''t even dare look at. It became a ce where people had silently treated as a ce where gue and all disasters woulde from. They were afraid that if they even gaze upon the unguarded gates of the empire, misfortune would cling to them like a leech.

    Yet, a petite woman with long nched hair that was tied up for its tip to not sweep the dry ground, stood in front of the once glorious gates of the Haimirich Empire. Herplexion was pale and her expression was in.

    Her nched eyshes fluttered ever so tenderly. A soft gust of wind blew past her, making the small bell tied around her white hair ring softly.

    "What a huge dilemma," she whispered, snapping her dull eyes up at the tower of the gates.

    "Tilly!" A young boy that also had the same silky silver hair waved at her from the window of the tower. "The gates are open! But they''re heavy! Just jump over the gates бк no one''s here!"

    "Jump?" the petite woman who just looked like a ghost scanned the towering wall. "It was high."

    Her voice barely reached her own ears, but the boy heard her loud and clear.

    "Come on!" urged the boy at the top of his lungs. "Ah! I found a cool chair here. You can sit on it for days without feeling numb!"

    "A chair?" the woman blinked, and in a snap of a finger, she appeared right beside the boy. "Was there tea and biscuits?"

    The boy''s face twitched, seeing the pure curiosity on her face. "Wellбн" he scratched the back of his head.

    "Maybe if we go over there." He pointed a finger at the castle from the distance. "I only found a chair here, but that ce looks expensive."

    The woman, Tilly, slowly followed the direction the boy pointed at. She blinked and blinked, staring at the castle that stood silently but still exuded thick magical energy.

    "Do you think there''s someone there?" asked the little boy, setting his eyes on the castle. "This entire ce is surrounded by a magic barrier. If I stepped foot on a different path, the ce just looks different."

    "Someone is protecting this ce," said Tilly, keeping her eyes on the castle. "One, two, threeбн that''s a lot of people."

    "Were they living there?"

    "Sleeping." She scanned the entirend to the farthest ce her eyes could reach. "Everyone is just sleeping."

    "Sleeping?" the boy frowned, furrowing his brows. "I don''t think thisnd just sheltered vampires. I heard it was mostly humans."

    "And the person in here is keeping their bodies alive," exined Tilly to the boy, nting her hand on top of his head. "Whoever is maintaining everything in this ce must know many things."

    "Do you think he knows where Sunny is?"

    "I hope he got tea and biscuits." The boy gazed up at her with dismay at her remarks. "Tilly is hungry."

    "Right, right. We haven''t had anything, right?" The boy let out a deep breath, already used to her short attention span. "Tilly, how about we fly to that ce? I don''t want to keep running. ude just kept on teasing me about not growing taller due to our endless traveling."<sub> </sub>

    Tilly gazed at the young boy whose face suddenly turned red in miffed. When a shallow breath slipped past her lips, she dragged her feet to the wooden stool and sat down.

    "Tilly is tired," she announced softly, eyes fixed on the boy, who now has the same height as her after sitting. "Law, since when did you grow taller?"

    The young boy named Law cocked his head to the side. "I grew taller?" he asked, pointing at himself.

    Tilly nodded, but she didn''t exin because she found it bothersome. Back then, whenever she sat down, she was still gazing down at him. But now, her neck was slightly cocked back with her eyes up.

    "That obsessed mother snatcher!" the boy, who was around fourteen, ground his teeth as he recalled an insufferable being. "He kept pressing my nerves whenever my big brother carry me, telling me two years had passed since we left the maind and I didn''t grow a centimeter."

    "I''ll kill him before my motheres and he tries to seduce her for fun." The young boy turned on his heel, facing the castle with determination. He then climbed up the deck, and when he stood up, he gazed down at Tilly who was still sitting daintily.

    "Tilly, if you need me, I''d be inside that castle." He pointed at the castle again, eyes at Tilly. "Or just scream, alright? I''ll just haunt down ude since he''s already doing sightseeing. I need to save my mother from that pervert."

    Tilly blinked and the moment she reopened her eyes, all she saw was the young boy jumping from this height fearlessly. She cocked her head to the side, no trace of worry that the boy might notnd safely.

    "If he wants to save his mother from a pervert, shouldn''t he start with his father first??" she wondered, but her question just got drifted into the wind.

    Tilly let out a deep exhale, turning her head in the castle''s direction. She didn''t move a muscle, unable to detect if that was because she waszy or simply exhausted. Although she didn''t really know what exhaustion felt like because breathing was already tiresome for her.

    "Abel," she whispered, keeping her gaze at the silent castle that just appeared so distant in her eyes. Not literally, but more like a ce that was untouchable and hard to break into. "It took me two years to get in this ce, but whyбн did you allow yourself to sleep this long?"

    <strong>*********</strong>

    <strong>[ Haimirich Imperial Pce ]</strong>

    "Your Grace!" A little girl''s voice echoed through the thin walls of the pce. "Your Grace~! Where are you?"

    The little girl that had silver hair with hazel streaks was running through the empty hallway, looking for a particr person who had been with her for the past two years.

    "Your Grace!" she kicked one of the doors open, panting for air the moment she caught a figure standing in front of the window. "We have visitors, Your Grace!"

    The man slowly turned on his heel, facing the little girl. There, Sunny, now five years old, was standing by the door with a giant smile on her face.

    "I know," said Isaiah calmly, holding his hand behind him. "Mathilda Grimsbanne and herpany had finally stepped foot in thisnd."

    Isaiah slowly set his eyes back to the window, showing no sign of relief or any emotion in particr. "Though I fear what will happen when we wake them up." He then shifted his attention to the bed where the emperor was sleeping soundlessly for the past two years since that night.

 Chapter 721 Theme

    Two years had passed in a blur for Isaiah and Sunny. They fled the scene that night, realizing Aries awakened her witch and the powers that came along with it had brought out the darkness that Aries kept within her for a long time. With everyone in the empire migrating to the world she created and trapping their spirits inside, Isaiah had to patiently wait until Aries and her new crew leave this ce.

    Since then, Isaiah had to make a choice.

    And he chose to preserve everyone and everything, using most of his energies to maintain their bodies and the once-flourishing empire. He created dimensions within it. Hence, anyone who would step foot inside the empire would see different things.

    Sunny was a great help to him since she had the blood of Grimsbanne and a trace of an ancient spell she got from her mother''s blood. It was safe to say the two had built this close, familiar, and ally rtionship during these two years.

    The only downside of this was that Isaiah''s movements were limited. He couldn''t get news that was going outside the empire because if he leave the empire, the barrier surrounding the empire would disappear. Fortunately, Sunny was adventurous enough to go in and out of the empire to know the situation outside.

    "Grandpa." Sunny climbed onto the bed where Abel was lying, poking his arm with her finger. "Just how long are you going to sleep? Grandmama is already getting married."

    "He won''t wake up even if you threaten him with real marriage news." Isaiah, on the other side of the bed, nced at Sunny, who surprisingly didn''t lose weight despite theck of supply they had. She grew a bit taller and her facial structure slightly grew refined, though. "You''ve been in Maleficent''s world that night. You knew how the structure of that spirit world is."

    Sunny pursed her lips, revealing a deep dimple on her right cheek. "Do you think they will have a divorce once he wakes up?"

    "That''s the least of our concerns at the moment." Isaiah fixed his eyes on Abel''s sleeping face. "We don''t know what happened in the Spirit World that night. But what we''re certain of is that they were aware they were trapped in that world."

    He paused as his expression turned firmer. "That is something that would definitely anger him and those with him."

    Inside the Maleficent World was not just Abel, but Conan, Roman, Morro, and many more. Isaiah didn''t worry that Abel and those people would be in a stalemate with their enemies. Matter of fact, Isaiah was confident the battle ended that same night two years ago.

    It was just that no matter what they would do, they wouldn''t get out of Maleficent World.

    "He must be dying of boredom," Sunny crooned, moving her little feet back and forth. She was cupping her cheeks, eyes on Abel''s side profile. "I would too. I am barely surviving with Your Grace''spany."

    Sunny nced up at Isaiah, who didn''t care about herments. "Your Grace, should we move them to the chapel and prepare a funeral for them?"

    "Hmm?" Isaiah slowly shifted his attention to the little girl lying on her tummy beside Abel.

    "Tilly, my brothers, and my cousin were already snooping around." Arge and mischievous grin turned up on her pretty face. "I haven''t felt my mother and father''s presence, and I can only think he probably locked her in an inn for some quality time. But it won''t take long before they reach the imperial pce. So, a funeral is a good theme for a wee party and also a family reunion!"

    Her brows wiggled yfully, knowing their wait wouldn''t be that long. Soonest, the guests of the empire, whom Sunny had been waiting for before the downfall of the empire would reach where they were. She felt no rush, though. She waited for years, so she could wait for a few more hours or days.<sub> </sub>

    Isaiah fluttered his eyshes ever so slowly. "There is no need for that."

    "Your Grace, you are so pretentious." Sunny blinked innocently. "You were angry that they allowed themselves to get trapped in her world and leave you behind here."

    "I don''t have spare funeral clothes."

    Her grin stretched wider until her teeth were showing. "Just get something from Handsome Uncle''s wardrobe."

    Isaiah nced up momentarily, recalling how he burned Conan''s closet, where he kept the expensive clothes he kept bragging about. He wouldn''t deny his frustration, and to release it, he burned Conan''s clothes lest that would be enough to wake up the man. Obviously, that wasn''t enough.

    "I''ll prepare your clothes!" Sunny jumped out of the bed giddily. "Handsome Uncle''s house is very pretty бк I never realize that until I went there. I thought the House Vandran was already luxurious."

    "You don''t have to бк"

    ? "I''ll be back! Bye~!"

    Isaiah watched the little girl skip her steps away from the Forbidden Mansion, where they kept Abel''s body while the man was in deep slumber. A deep exhale slipped past his lips, shaking his head.

    "Did she use me as an excuse again?" he murmured, keeping his eyes on the open door where she went without looking back. "It''s not like anyone is stopping her to greet the guests."

    Isaiah slowly shifted his eyes back to Abel''s peaceful, sleeping face. Staring at his emperor, a mix of emotions dominated his face.

    "I''m worriedбн" he dragged his feet away, stopping in front of the window. He faced the window, staring at the view outside, particrly at the border where a woman initially idled minutes ago. "I barely heard stories about the Grimsbanne and the Originals."

    But the first original he met turned out to be a self-centered and crazy demon. If only Isaiah knew Marse was just as bad as his gut feeling told him, Isaiah would''ve done something before things went south.

    In other words, Isaiah didn''t have a good impression of the Originals. First, Marse. Not that Abel was way better. From another person''s perspective, Marse and Abel would just be pure viins. Hence, Isaiah didn''t know what to expect from Mathilda Grimsbanne. Sunny reassured him this person was different, but at this point, there was only little credibility in Sunny''s words since the little girl had confused words such as madness to normal.

    "But a funeral, huh?" Isaiah hummed a low tune, turned on his heel, and then walked away. "Good thing Sunny taught me gardening. The coffin where I buried Hakebourne and Morro had grown beautiful daisies."

 Chapter 722 Claude And Rufus

    "It was just overnight, but since when did he be more like his father?" a youthful man, around his early twenties, opened the pot that was being simmered. "I wonder what went in his head this time, running and yelling like a maniac, about to go off on a killing spree?"

    The youthful man with a darker shade of ash hair sniffed the aroma of the stew. His plump lips curled up, appearing like a crafty fox.

    "Amazing," said the young man, reaching for thedle to scoop into the pot and taste the soup. Delight immediately washed over his charming face and the twinkle in his deep crimson eyes gleamed in satisfaction. "I can''t believe this food is being simmered for two years."

    "The person who preserved this ce is amazing." A deep voice came from behind him, making the young man turn around. All thetter saw was a towering figure folding his brawny arms under his buffed chest, leaning his side against the jamb of the entrance of the kitchen.

    "The family in this house just looked like they overslept," he continued, ncing over his shoulder. "They''re warm and breathing normally. Although they wouldn''t wake up even if you shake them."

    "Even if you stab them?"

    The man slowly set his dull eyes back on the young man. "Even if you eat all that food like a food thief."

    "Hehe!" the young man giggled, facing the pot and distinguishing the fire. "We''ve been fighting all this time. I''m famished, really. Who knows when we''ll have the chance to rest, let alone rest? Take a sit, Your Majesty. I''ll serve this real quick."

    "I''m not hungry." The man by the entrance denied, frowning when he heard his stomach grumble.

    "If a vampire like me is starving, what makes you think you will not?" the young man cocked his head back, still grinning craftily. "It''s good that it seemed the family in this house nned to have ate dinner, so there is a lot."

    The young man carried the pot to the table. There were already tes ready on the rectangr table for six people. At this moment, they simply intruded on amoner''s house in the capital to confirm their investigations.

    Upon arrival, there were unconscious people in the house. That includes thedy who was unconscious in the kitchen. The man with ash eyes and neat blonde hair carried the woman to the bedroom, hoping she was the matriarch of the house and not a maid. They didn''t want to create misunderstandings once they woke up since there were a few females in this house.

    "I am assuming Law and Tilly parted ways at the border," said the blonde man, marching inside and sitting down in the nearest chair he reached.

    "Well, if Law waits for Tilly, it would take weeks before they actually move," said the young man, sitting several seats across from the other man excitedly. "Dig in!"

    The young man unhesitatingly served himself some soup, bread, and meat to enjoy. He ate as though he starved and hadn''t eaten for years... which was technically true.

    "I wonder what Fabian is up to..." said the other man with golden hair, reaching for the slice of bread modestly. "I told him repeatedly not to cause trouble. What in the world did he not understand with that?"

    "But he didn''t." The young man replied with his mouth full. "If Mister Fabian didn''t listen to your advice, I don''t think things wouldn''t go on as peacefully as it was."

    "An entire empire had fallen overnight, ude."

    "Not entirely." The young man named ude shrugged. "If this empire had fallen, everyone wouldn''t be in their homes, sleeping. And that castle, that imperial pce, wouldn''t stand gloriously just like its peak."

    "You were never in this ce before."<sub> </sub>

    "That''s right." ude rocked his head, swallowing the food down his throat. "But I''ve been into ces as a former earl to know if one really fell from its grace or not. Your Majesty, how can you not know that when you once rule an empire?"

    "I seeded it."

    "Changes nothing. My uncle passed the throne to you because he''s an irresponsible and arrogant prick. How the Heart''s Empire flourished is all thanks to you." The young man lowered his eyes, running his tongue across his teeth. "It would continue to do so if not for me."

    "Enough, ude." The man''s expression turned solemn and stiff. "We''ve already passed that talk."

    "I know. That''s why I can talk freely about it." ude shrugged nonchntly. "Anyway, you said you met the emperor of Haimirich back in the World Summit. What sort of person are we expecting?"

    The man leaned back, chewing the bread slowly. Unlike ude, who continued to gobble up the food while waiting for his response and kept his attention on him, the man didn''t seem to have much appetite.

    "I''m not sure anymore," said the man sincerely. "My impression of him is almost exactly like my lord. A person to be wary of, but with how things turned in this ce, I can only expect the worse."

    "Worse... like Mister Fabian?"

    "Sort of."

    The young man, ude, pondered for a moment before he grinned. "I want to meet him. He''s probably a person full of fun."

    "Fun..." the man whispered, assessing the excitement on the young man''s face. "... right. You might get along well with him."

    "Right?" ude''s grin grew brighter at the thought of meeting his grandfather. His grin, however, stiffened when an arrow suddenly grazed his cheek and then embedded in the wall behind him.

    The other man''s brows rose, ncing at the arrow on the wall. When he looked back, the ss of the window shattered; evidence of where that arrow came from.

    "Charlie''s influence on her is still there, huh?" said the man, drinking the water leisurely. "Well, her mother was an impressive archer herself. I guess even though you haven''t met the young miss, she remembered how you seduced her mother while she was pregnant."

    ude''s face twitched as the veins on his temple protruded in irritation. "And I will continue to seduce my auntie just so she stops producing little devils like them."

    "Good luck with that."

    "I''ll make it happen, even if it means killing my uncle. You can''t stop me in this, Sir Rufus." Invisible fire engulfed ude while the other man shook his head.

    "Finish your meal fast. It''s better to check the imperial pce first before Tilly, or my lord and the madam, arrives. They tend to attract trouble intentionally," said the man with blonde hair named Rufus, eatingfortably, despite the arrows that kepting at the young man ude.

 Chapter 723 His Last Conversation With Her

    <strong>Two years ago,</strong> days before Maximus'' arrival in the imperial pce, Isaiah received an invitation from the empress to discuss the matters regarding the ongoing road construction that would shorten the travel time to the north. As a subject and an imperial family''s strongest supporter, Isaiah had no reason to refuse the invitation.

    Hence, here he was, sitting in the pavilion in the Rose Pce''s beautiful garden. Across from him was the ever so elegant empress, offering him the tea she brewed herself.

    "Thank you for granting my invitation, Your Grace." Isaiah kept his eyes on Aries across from him. "Before anything else, I would like to offer you a cup of tea that I usually enjoy myself."

    Isaiah gazed down at the ck tea which she put milk and sugar in it.

    "Don''t worry. This is not poisoned," Aries humored, making him gaze up at her.

    "I''m not worried about it being poisoned, Your Majesty." As usual, his tone was monotonous. "It is always an honor to drink the tea, Your Majesty, personally brewed."

    Aries smiled, raising her hand as a gesture for him to take a sip. Isaiah reached for the teacup, guiding it to his lips. His brows rose as the smooth texture and pleasing taste filled his mouth and down his throat.

    "Did you like it?" she asked, intrigued, holding her hand and tilting them to the side.

    "If you do not mind, I would like to take another sip."

    "Of course!" Aries chuckled. "I made it for you, so it''s my pleasure if you like it."

    Isaiah lowered his eyes and enjoyed the cup of tea. While he did so in silence, Aries''s eyes never left his figure. Putting down the cup after drinking half of it, he lifted his eyes to her.

    "I never thought I''d see you this pleased and satisfied," she humored, noticing how his usually stiff shoulders rxed and how his usually gloomy face cleared up. "Even when I made my first spell work, you didn''t have such a reaction, Your Grace."

    "My apologies."

    "You don''t have to." Her kind smile remained, shaking her head sideways. "Sir Conan ndered you enough that I somehow epted the fact you weren''t as expressive as him."

    "Please." Isaiah lowered his head, his tone still dull and in. "Do not believe his virulent tongue."

    Ariesughed happily, watching Isaiah raise his head again. "You never changed, do you, Your Grace?"

    Isaiah didn''t respond, as what she had said was vague. Although there was already a part of him that agreed to her.

    "From the first time I came in here as His Majesty''s pet until now that I became the empress, you talked to me the same way you talked to me back then."

    "Apologies if I offended you due to myck of manners."

    "Why do you always apologize, Your Grace?" Her lips stretched even wider. "I didn''t mean it like that. What I''m saying is, you respected me just the way you respect me now, regardless of the title."

    Her eyes softened as she lowered her eyes. "Growing up, titles had always been an important part of a person''s life. People treat you depending on the title you carry as if that is your only value as a person, and without it, you are nothing."

    "It''s nice to know that someone out there treats everyone equally and would always give the basic courtesy with or without this title," she continued with a smile, locking eyes with him. "I just thought that Your Grace is really a kind and loyal person. Knowing you are by my husband''s side puts a lot of ease in my heart."

    "I''m simply doing my duty as the monarch''s subject."<sub> </sub>

    Aries''s lips parted, but she ended up closing them. A shallow breath slipped past her nostrils, staring at him with soft eyes.

    "I know I invited you under the excuse of discussing the road construction connecting the capital and the north," Aries spoke, keeping her subtle smile intact. "It was a lie."

    "I figured, but I am aware when I epted the invitation that I would hear something else from you. Yet, I epted it."

    She nodded in satisfaction. "As expected of Your Grace."

    "Please, speak freely, Your Majesty. I would help you or do whatever your orders to the best of my ability."

    "You always put ease in my heart with your words and actions, Your Grace. But fret not, I do not have a such huge request from you." Aries slowly set her eyes on theke near the pavilion, smiling at the luminescent still water. "The reason I invited you for this tea is to ask you one thing."

    She paused as her eyelids drooped. "Never leave Abel''s side."

    "Pardon?"

    "I always had this feeling that the madness within me will one day eat me alive. That no matter how I hide it, it would one day fill my chest and take my breath away. When that timees, don''t make me an option. The only option you need is Abel." Her lips curled up subtly. "My dearest husbandбн I will always choose him. And so, I want everyone to choose him over anything else or anyone else, regardless of his qualms and whims."

    "Your Majesty, what you are saying is concerning." Isaiah didn''t beat around the bush as his expression turned firm. "Is there anything that''s bothering you?"

    "As I''ve said, it''s only a gut feeling." Aries set her eyes back on him. "But my gut feeling never failed me, Your Grace."

    "The ns for Maximus''s arrival бк"

    "Do you trust me, Your Grace?" Aries cut him off mid-sentence, rendering him speechless.

    Isaiah opened and closed his mouth before he hung his head low. "How dare I question your intention?"

    "We have limited time, and even if we have more time to prepare, it''s the only way we have." Aries watched him lift his head once again to hold her eyes. "I called you today because I don''t know if we will even have the chance like this in the future. There were many things that might put a lot of doubt from today onwards, and I myself am unsure of tomorrow."

    "But whatever the result would be, I would only be at ease if our people would be left untouched," she added with a smile. "Do not protect us, but protect Haimirich. I had been to Rikhill and Maganti, and every ce I gained authority always meets its end. I don''t want Haimirich to share the same fate."

    "Can I trust you with that? Your Grace?"

    Isaiah could only stare at Aries''s gentle smile as if she had epted what was yet unknown to him. She had always been like this; a woman who seemed to be so fragile, but at the same time, she gave off this feeling she could conquer anything. He would be wary of her, if not for the fact that Aries was only dangerous to her enemies but never to the people she cared about.

    Isaiah slowly stood from his chair and marched towards her, kneeling on one knee. He reached for her hand and guided it before his lips.

    "As you wished, Your Majesty," he said, lowering his head to the back of her hand. "I, Isaiah Darkmore, pledged in my name to follow Her Majesty''s orders, with all my might and powers."

    Aries smiled in satisfaction as his lips touched her knuckles. She nodded at him when he lifted his eyes to her.

    "Now, I am fully at ease, Your Grace."

 Chapter 724 Definitely His Sister

    <strong>[ PRESENT TIME ]</strong>

    That was Isaiah''sst and most memorable memory of Aries. Although Isaiah trained her with her swordsmanship and even willingly became her mentor in witchcraft, that conversation in the Rose Pce garden left a deep impression in his mind.

    And at a time like this, he couldn''t help but have a quick trip down memoryne.

    "Your Majesty." Isaiah caressed the smooth edge of the coffin that was ced steps before the altar. Currently, Isaiah moved Abel''s body to the chapel within the imperial pce, just as Sunny requested.

    "It has been two years since you entered this long slumber with everyone. May this slumber end so you can stop her madness. She will end herself if this continues."

    Despite what had happened two years ago, worry still filled his eyes.

    It was just as Aries predicted. A day that her darkness would devour her and drive her into madness woulde, and it dide.

    For Isaiah, though, Aries might''ve chosen the path she had taken and turned her back on everyone, but there was this little part in Isaiah''s heart that whatever Aries had done, she had reasons. It was just that with every passing day that would go by and with each news that Sunny would deliver to him, that small faith in her consistently shrunk.

    If this continued, he was afraid the little trust he had in her would deplete. And that, somehow, worried him. That Isaiah wouldn''t live to the day when he would understand Aries''s actions, and what came along during her awakening that changed her ns with a snap of a finger.

    <strong>''She hasn''t returned yet.''</strong> Isaiah turned his head to the stained ss of the chapel. <strong>''Good thing I didn''t wait for her to get me a pair of funeral clothes.''</strong>

    For the past two years, Isaiah only had Sunny to talk to. Not that he was a talker, but Sunny was a strange girl with a beguiling nature. Somehow, despite being an adult, Isaiah felt that he never influenced the girl, but the other way around.

    For instance, while waiting for the mischievous Sunny toe back from wherever she went, Isaiah set up Abel''s funeral in the chapel. But even until now, she hadn''t returned. Sunny had always been like that, though. She probably used that excuse to go out of the imperial pce to y outside. Not that she wasn''t allowed to go out, but somehow, she always make up excuses. The reason he deemed her strange.

    "I just hope she gets back safely," whispered Isaiah, keeping his eyes on Abel for a moment, before slowly raising his gaze to the giant cross behind the altar. "What an irony."

    Silence slowly reigned in the chapel as Isaiah stood motionless in the same spot. When another minute had passed in silence, his eyes slowly grew sharper. Isaiah slowly turned on his heel, and at the same time, the entrance creaked slowly and loudly.

    The light outside stretched inside the chapel as a petite figure stood in the middle. Her shadow also stretched up to the middle of the aisle. Isaiah narrowed his eyes to see her face clearly.

    There, by the entrance, was a petite woman with long nched hair that was tied in a loose ponytail. She had this very long hair that if she let it down, the tip of her hair would sweep the floor. Herplexion was just as white as her hair as if all the blood in her body was gone. Her dress was in and dull, though it was neat.

    Isaiah studied her from head to toe, sizing her up to estimate if she was strong or weak. But s, he sensed nothing. If there''s anything, all he detected was this faint resemnce to her aura with Abel. However, her aura wasn''t as naturally despotic as Abel, nor it was just as revolting as that of Marse''s.

    <strong>''But she''s surely a Grimsbanne,''</strong> he thought. <strong>''That naturally white hair, deep crimson eyes, as if they could see right through one''s soul. I wonder what sort of Grimsbanne she is?''</strong><sub> </sub>

    <strong>ngбн ngбн</strong>

    The moment the woman advanced in Isaiah''s direction, the bell that was tied around her hair chimed softly. The ringing echoed at her every step while Isaiah kept his eyes on her. He held his breath the closer she got, raising all his guards lest she does something to harm Abel.

    But nothing happened.

    The woman stopped three steps from Isaiah, gazing at him wordlessly. Her lips parted, but no words came out as she shut her mouth again.

    "You areбн?" Isaiah broke the silence between them when another minute passed and she just stared at him.

    "Weddings are only fun when you''re watching it." Her voice was small and soft, but her reply was quite random. She nced at the coffin behind Isaiah for a moment but said nothing, even after having a glimpse of the person lying inside.

    Instead, she set her eyes back on Isaiah and blinked. The woman then turned on her heel and walked towards the first pew, leaving him more confused. She sat down on it like a statue, saying nothing, not moving a muscle.

    "..."

    Isaiah kept his eyes on the woman sitting on the pew, but her eyes were staring just ahead. He couldn''t read what she was thinking, or if she was even using her mind at the moment. For minutes, he waited for anything from her, even the slightest movement, but s, the only movement she did for the past couple of minutes was blink.

    "You areбн Mathilda Grimsbanne?" Again, Isaiah''s voice pierced the air when he couldn''t take the prolonged silence anymore. Much to his dismay, her reply was something else.

    "I''m sleeping," said the woman with the same small voice, staring at the wall ahead.

    "You have your eyes open."

    "I sleep with my eyes open."

    "But you''re talking to me."

    The woman opened her mouth and nced at him. She didn''t reply anymore, as if she only realized he had seen through her obvious bluff.

    "..."

    <strong>''Uh.'' </strong>Isaiah let out a short breath. <strong>''She''s definitely his sister.'' </strong>бкmon sense wouldn''t work on her.

 Chapter 725 First Impression

    A shallow breath slipped past Isaiah''s lips, keeping his eyes on Tilly, Abel''s other sister. Unlike Marse''s explosive temper, this one was too quiet and strange. It was as if the word weird was discovered to describe thisdy.

    <strong>''I still can''t lower my guard,''</strong> he told himself, mentally nodding in agreement. <strong>''She''s still a Grimsbanne. Until she was able to get him out of his slumber, I trust no one.''</strong>

    Isaiah slowly gazed back at the coffin steps from the altar. His eyes fell on Abel and his jaw tightened. Even letting others touch him brings this unspeakable anxiety to his heart, knowing they could do whatever they want to Abel.

    "Your Grace~!"

    Just then, Sunny''s voice echoed sweetly in the silent chapel. As Isaiah slowly gazed back, his eyes caught multiple figures walking behind the little girl running in the aisle.

    "Your Grace! Sunny is back!" Sunny had this sweet and adorable grin, skipping her steps to where Isaiah stood.

    Her steps slowed down as she noticed a familiar figure sitting on the first pew. Upon recognizing that bell tied around her long, white hair and that average shoulder, Sunny''s expression brightened up.

    "Tilly! You are here early~!" Sunny hastened her pace giddily.

    "Sunny." Azy and annoyed voice came from behind, making Isaiah shift his eyes to a young boy in his early teens. His hands were linked behind his silky silver hair, and his eyes were green with a red undertone. "Watch your steps. I don''t want youining if you бк"

    "Ack!"

    The young boy, Law, frowned as his silly little sister tripped just when he was telling her to watch her step. His calm steps didn''t stop, though, watching his sister mumble while assisting herself up.

    "Hehбн the more I think about it, I am almost at the brink of believing karma exists." A young man spoke, and Isaiah also shifted his attention to the young man walking several steps from the young teen. The young man also had light hair, but in a much darker shade of ash, unlike Sunny, Law, and Tilly''s hair color. "How can you trip on a smooth surface?"

    The young boy red at the young man, and thetter raised his hand to his shoulder level.

    "What?" the young man''s brows rose, treading carefully, and keeping his distance from the boy. "Am I not allowed to express my dissatisfaction? I barely ate because she kept shooting arrows in my direction, so obviously, I''d be bitter about it."

    "The only bad thing she did is she cannot put a hole in your head," the boy spat out with a deep frown. "If it was me, an arrow would''ve plunged in your throat the moment you opened your mouth."

    The young man grinned mischievously. "I doubt. You can probably graze me, though."

    "You should''ve stayed behind."

    "Oh, sorry. But that can''t do. I''m stuck with your mother."

    "This guy." Law, the young teen, stopped and faced the young man aggressively. "Big brother, can I punch him?"

    Isaiah, who was watching and listening to this strange exchange unfold, moved his gaze to the other man, near the young man. The man had a towering figure with distinct, broad shoulders. He had this slightly long blonde hair and a pair of silver eyes. Obviously, this man didn''t share the same features as the rest, but Isaiah could feel his natural authoritative aura.<sub> </sub>

    "You two behave." The man with golden hair continued his careful steps until he reached the boy, nting his palm on thetter''s head. "We have more things to settle ahead. Conserve your energy."

    The boy frowned, ring daggers at the young man. "Once this was over, I''ll surely settle scores with you, ude."

    " бк" ude, the young man, scoffed in disbelief. He darted his eyes on the man and the boy, Law, as the two resumed their steps towards the altar. "Oy, Law. How can you call him your big brother and call me by my name? I''m your cousin бк your blood cousin!"

    ude''sint drifted in the inbound breeze, clicking his tongue in irritation. "He''s always the annoying one even when he was young," he grumbled irritably, stomping his feet to follow them

    When the man, Rufus, and the young teen, Law, stopped, ude''s steps skidded to a halt. Thetter arched his brow, watching Rufus squat down before Sunny.

    "Are you alright, Young Miss?" asked Rufus while Sunny dusted off her knees.

    Sunny raised her head and shed him a big, sweet smile. "Yes, big brother! Sunny is alright!"

    "I''m d to hear that. Watch your steps next time, alright?"

    "Sunny listens to big brother, so Sunny will be careful next time!" Her grin stretched even wider, not even casting her real big brother, Law, a nce. She then pivoted on her heel, skipping her steps once again while sweetly calling, "Tilly!"

    "Till бк" Sunny halted the moment she reached the first pew. Her steps were careful while approaching Tilly.

    Tilly didn''t react; she was just blinking ever so tenderly.

    "Tilly fell asleep," said Sunny, looking back at Isaiah with her doe eyes. "Your Grace, did we make her wait for too long so she fell asleep?"

    Isaiah, who was busy observing these people who seeded in reaching the imperial pce, set his eyes in Sunny''s direction. His gazended on the little girl''s curious eyes, and then shifted to Tilly''s side profile.

    "She has her eyes open," he blurted out, unable to understand how Sunny thought Tilly was sleeping. <strong>''Does that mean she''s really sleeping with her eyes open?''</strong>

    "Sunny, don''t confuse His Grace." Deep lines appeared on Isaiah''s forehead, turning his attention to Law when thetter spoke.

    Law shed Isaiah a smile, revealing the small canine that gave him a mischievous look.

    "Tilly thinks she''s the greatest bluffer of all time. So Sunny sometimes backs her up to cause more confusion," exined Law to Isaiah with a brief chuckle. "But she''s not sleeping. Though, you have to prepare yourself because Tilly might''ve misunderstood the time that it''s just the two of you in this ce. Just hope she didn''t."

    <strong>''Huh?''</strong>

 Chapter 726 Expectations Was Always Different From Reality

    "Tilly thinks she''s the greatest bluffer of all time. So Sunny sometimes backs her up to cause more confusion. But she''s not sleeping. Though, you have to prepare yourself because Tilly might''ve misunderstood the time that it''s just the two of you in this ce. Just hope she didn''t."

    <strong>''Huh?''</strong>

    Question marks filled Isaiah''s speech bubble at Law''s remarks, but he didn''t dwell on it. Instead, Isaiah assessed the people that came to the chapel for Abel''s funeral.

    His eyes firstnded on the strangedy sitting on the first pew before moving his eyes to Sunny. Sunny already stood in front of Tilly, doing peek-a-boo to get a reaction from Tilly but to no avail. It was a silly sight to behold, but Isaiah didn''t dwell on it.

    Instead, Isaiah shifted his eyes to the men who came with Sunny. The first thing he caught was the man with golden hair walking in Isaiah''s direction. Isaiah raised his guards on instinct, but then the blonde man turned on his heel, sitting on the first pew opposite Tilly''s.

    The young teen, Law, also followed the blonde man and sat beside him. Meanwhile, the young man named ude sauntered in Isaiah''s direction. But instead of sitting on the pews, he didn''t stop until he was at Isaiah''s arm''s length.

    "Condolences?" ude shed Isaiah a smile, tilting his head to get a glimpse of the coffin behind Isaiah. "So, he''s Tilly''s brother, huh? I heard many things about him, but I want to confirm one thing."

    Isaiah''s brows rose, watching ude straighten his back.

    "Tilly said her brother was a nutcase. Is that true?" asked ude with pure curiosity swirling in his eyes.

    Isaiah opened and closed his mouth, but no words came out. All he could do for a moment was study this young man before him. Somehow, he could feel that despite that this young man seemed to be in his early twenties, ude was just as wild as Abel back in the day.

    "That is a question I cannot answer," Isaiah replied solemnly, only for ude to p.

    "So he is!" the corner of ude''s lips stretched from ear to ear. "I''m looking forward to meeting him. Don''t worry. Even if Tilly failed because she fell asleep, I''ll wake him up for you."

    ude winked at Isaiah before strutting away, joining Tilly and Sunny. ude was just as carefree as Sunny, talking to Tilly, who wasn''t even responding.

    <strong>If Tilly imed she was sleeping, doesn''t that mean Tilly didn''t want to be disturbed? </strong>This thought crossed Isaiah, seeing how Sunny and ude bother Tilly, regardless of Tilly''s im.

    Isaiah observed the three first, and they weren''t talking about anything that could be deemed important. After a minute, he shifted his eyes to the opposite pew. The moment he did, he caught Law yawning while leaning back. The other man with him didn''t move or speak, but he was staring at Isaiah as if sizing him up.

    Isaiah never felt awkward in his life, but right now, it surprised him he could feel such emotion. There were five people in the chapel, excluding Abel and Isaiah. And these guests didn''t seem to have that many questions бк no, actually, it seemed they didn''t have any questions at all.

    There were many scenarios and expectations Isaiah had in his mind before he came face to face with these people. One of them was a thick and suffocating air that one would instantly feel the tension between him and them. He also expected that these people would try to intimidate him intentionally or not.

    However, it didn''t happen.

    He felt no particr negative energy from them. If anything, this meeting felt ratherбн normal.

    Did he just expect too much, considering what sort of person Marse was? The first family member that showed up in the Haimirich Empire?

    These people didn''t seem they really didn''t have goals or motives and simply attended the funeral.

    "Sunny, how can you shamelessly giggle when we''re at your grandfather''s funeral?" Isaiah snapped out of his thoughts when he heard ude''s remarks. "Cry since he fed you while you''re here. You too, Tilly. You should cry since your brother is lying over there."<sub> </sub>

    Tilly faced ude. "I am crying." Her voice was deadpan.

    "Tilly, there should be tears like this." Sunny forced a tear out of her eyes, which rendered ude and Isaiah speechless.

    "Wowбн can you really force a tear that easily?" ude blurted out, now realizing how this little girl got her fingers wrapped around everyone.

    "It took me ten years of practice бк"

    "You''re five."

    Sunny pursed her lips upon ude''s remarks, resorting to ignoring him as she faced Tilly. "Tilly, just think of any sad scenario whenever you want to cry. As for me, I always imagine that I will no longer have anything to eat, and that thought really makes me sad."

    Tilly blinked. "But thinking scenarios that hadn''t happened takes so much of my energy."

    "..."

    "Tilly, just think of anything that happened бк"

    "I forgot."

    Sunny pinched the bridge of her nose while ude''s face was scrunched up while watching the two. At this point, he should''ve gone used to Tilly, but he just couldn''t. Probably, if he lived with Tilly for a century.

    As Sunny taught Tilly how to cry at a funeral, Isaiah set his eyes down. He stood in that same spot, listening to this menial conversation, Law''s deep breaths as he had fallen asleep, and the other man''s nonchnce.

    It was really different from what he expected, and that somehow put a bit of ease in his heart.

    Isaiah stood in the same spot without moving a muscle. He didn''t know how much time passed, but he did notice that the light filtering through the stained ss slowly dimmed.

    After so long, Isaiah felt another two presence approaching the chapel.

    The moment he did, the conversation in the background and Law''s deep breaths stopped. Isaiah slowly shifted his eyes to the open door, hearing light footsteps, and two shadows stretched inside the chapel.

    "My god, Sam. I told you not to wander off." Soon, Isaiah heard a woman''s sarcastic voice, along with the footsteps.

    "I didn''t wander off бк" Another voice of a man followed after hers. "Right. I did wander off, but hey, I managed to meet you here, didn''t I?"

    As the two figures crossed the entrance of the chapel, what came into sight was a woman with curly hazel hair and a towering man with bright silver hair. Isaiah couldn''t help but nce at Law, because that man looked exactly like this kid.

    <strong>''So these areбн''</strong> Isaiah''s thoughts trailed off the moment he heard Sunny''s excited call.

    "Papa!"

 Chapter 727 Introduction

    "Papa!"

    Isaiah caught little Sunny''s figure running from the first pew to the two figures at the entrance. The two neers stopped from their steps, turning their attention to the little girl running toward them.

    "Ah, my princess!" the man with silver hair and bright pair of crimson eyes squatted down. He spread his arms wide open, smiling from ear to ear to wee his daughter. "Did you miss your papa бк"

    "Mama!"

    The man''s smile froze as Sunny ran past him, jumping to the woman behind the man. The woman simply bent her knees, catching the little girl in her embrace.

    "Mama, Sunny miss you so much!" Sunny expressed, melting into the woman''s embrace.

    The woman''s beautiful face softened, pulling the little girl''s body closer as she tightened her embrace.

    "Me too, Sunny. Mama misses Sunny so much. There wasn''t a time I didn''t think about you." The woman''s already gentle voice sounded more affectionate, leaning the side of her head against the little girl. "I''m sorry that it took us some time toe to you."

    Sunny rested her chin over the woman''s shoulder, grinning. "Sunny understands! I had loads of fun while waiting for mama to fetch Sunny."

    The woman slowly drew her head back to look at the little girl in her arms. Her smile was gentle and genuine, and her eyes delivered thousands of unspoken words that could describe her longing, worry, and love for the little girl.

    "Hey." As the mother and daughter stared and smiled at each other, they heard the man''s dead voice. Both of them shifted their attention to the other man, only to see displeasure stered on his face.

    "Sunny, didn''t you miss me?" asked the man, pointing at himself. "How can you just run past me like that and pounce on my wife?"

    Sunny leaned closer to her mother. "I missed Papa."

    "Don''t lie." The man scrunched his face, seeing the insincerity in his daughter''s eyes. "You were disappointed that I came back with your mother."

    "Sam." The woman snapped her tongue faintly, shaking her head. "This is why your children aren''t fond of you. You see them aspetition."

    "What?" the man named Samael gasped at his wife. "Lilou, it was not me who see them aspetition! It''s them!"

    "If only you stop trying to get Auntie Lilou pregnant, Law and Sunny might tolerate you." Suddenly, ude''szy voice reached their ears. The three, Lilou, Samael, and Sunny, turned their heads in ude''s direction, only to see thetter sitting on the first pew.

    ude had his arms over the pew, eyes on them. "Hi, Auntie Lilove."

    "ude." Lilou shed the young man a kind smile.

    "It''s no use," Law chimed inzily, looking back at his parents dead in the eye. "I''d ratherpete with my father than my cousin, who obviously held ulterior motives."

    "Sunny isn''tpeting." Sunny crooned, facing her mother with her ultimate weapon: her sweet smile. "Mother likes Sunny the best, right?"

    "Of course. Sunny is my princess." Lilou smiled and nudged her nose against the little girl. "Mama likes Sunny the most."

    Samael, Law, and ude gazed at the pretentious little girl and the woman, who was purposely turning a blind eye to little Sunny''s maniptive nature, in dismal. Watching their reaction, Isaiah was certain this rtionship wasn''t normal at all.

    "Whatever!" Samael huffed, and his frown grew deeper. He then looked around the chapel, and only then did he notice Isaiah.

    "Ah!" Samael raised a finger and pointed at Isaiah. "You''re that warlock?"

    "Hmm?" Isaiah''s brows rose. He would''ve understood it if Samael called him the grand duke since only a few knew he was a witch. But then, he quickly realized that the entire Haimirich was under his spell.<sub> </sub>

    Samael smiled upon noticing how Isaiah realized his words.

    "Nice to meet you." The man marched towards Isaiah and then stopped several steps from thetter. "Samael La Crox is the name. The woman over there is my wife, Lilou Bloodfang - La Crox."

    Samael pointed his thumb over his shoulder while the woman behind him approached them with Sunny in her arms.

    "Sunny is my daughter. That boy over there is our firstborn, Law." He then pointed in Law''s direction, introducing all of them, knowing these people didn''t have the energy for an introduction. "The man sitting beside him is my adopted son, Rufus."

    "That guy on that side is ude, my nephew. And then you probably met Tilly," he continued with a smile, jerking his chin to the coffin behind Isaiah. "Tilly is my aunt and also my mother and that man''s sister."

    After giving everyone a quick introduction, Samael offered his hand to Isaiah. "I''m pleased to meet you, Duke Isaiah Darkmore."

    Isaiah''s eyes fell on the man''s long and slender hands before lifting his gaze back to him. Thetter was friendlier than he looks, and if not because of him, Isaiah would probably leave everything as it was.

    "It was a pleasure to meet His Majesty''s kin." Isaiah slowly held Samael''s hand for a handshake.

    "It took us quite some time, didn''t we?" Samael''s lips stretched in a kindly manner, releasing Isaiah''s hand slowly. "Well, ourst opponent gave us a troublesome time."

    "I''m d you seemed to have won your battle."

    "We always do." Samael winked at him, tilting his upper body to the side to peek at the person in the coffin. "So that''s my uncle. Wooбн may he rest in peace."

    "Please refrain from spewing such an insolent joke."

    "Ohhбн" Samael straightened his back with a chuckle. "Apologies. My bad."

    "Sam, stop teasing His Grace." After a moment, the woman named Lilou reached them. She stood a step behind her husband, eyes on Isaiah. "Please do not take his words to the heart. He enjoys pressing people''s nerves, but he is a reliable person."

    Gazing at Lilou, Isaiah felt this slight relief, as it seemed there was one normal and rational person in this group.

    "Do not worry. No offense was taken."

    "Thank you." The woman shed him a smile and sighed, stretching her neck to see the coffin behind Isaiah. She gazed at Abel for a moment before shifting her eyes to Isaiah. "Can we see him?"

    Isaiah hesitated for a moment, but then stepped aside. "Of course."

    "Thank you, Your Grace." The woman nodded in satisfaction before bending down to put down Sunny. "Baby, Mama and Papa will just greet your grandpa, alright? You can hold my hand if you want to."

    Sunny still bore a sweet and bright smile, but instead of sticking to her mother, she skipped a step and clutched Isaiah''s trousers. "I''ll stay with His Grace for protection!"

    Lilou nced at Isaiah and saw thetter nod slightly. "It seems our family owes you a great debt."

    "Not at all --"

    "My daughter barely likes me, so for her to like you is truly an admirable feat," Samael chimed in, waiting for Isaiah to shift his eyes to him. "It might be shameless to ask for more, but please look after her for a moment."

    His eyes then glinted as he slowly set his eyes on the man lying in the coffin. "That emperor of yoursбн even in his slumber, still manages to re at me. What a monster."

 Chapter 728 The Aftermath

    <strong>Meanwhileбн </strong>

    The clouds were drifting in the clear blue sky leisurely. It was that time of the year when flowers bloom beautifully. The season for harvest after the long wait.

    It used to be like that around this time until two years ago.

    The glorious Haimirich Empire was nothing like its former grandeur. Instead of towering houses, streets that were always so busy, and prosperousnd, everything was just piles of rubble. The houses were destroyed and burned down. The carefree touches ofughter that used to fill the capital were reced with quietness. Thick smoke from the continuous fire reached a part of the sky, rying the word to those in the heavens.

    Above was the glorious light of the world, but down below was akin to a glimpse of hell.

    The aftermath of that night two years ago.

    <strong>Disaster.</strong>

    Abel kept his eyes on the beautiful sky while floating on a stillke. The waters had a diluted color of red, and around theke were the remains of those who tested his patience. The grass that was drowned with blood that night in the Haimirich Empire never grew a lush green, as it always had a tinge of red.

    "Your Majesty!" Conan''s voice rang from the side, but Abel didn''t react like usual. "Until when will you float there?! Don''t we have better things to do?"

    "Better thingsбн" Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly. "Like what, Conan?"

    "Likeбн" Conan trailed off, thinking of what else to do.

    Currently, the Haimirich Empire was no more after facing Abel''s wrath. The emperor destroyed everything in sight and even challenged the sky, hoping to get out of this world, but to no avail. They were stuck in this ce for who knows how long.

    "Fuck it." Conan frowned, wobbling down to the ground without sparing the skeletons around the slightest nce. "We have nothing else to do and I''m dying because of it."

    His shoulders lowered as he let out a deep sigh.

    "Back then, I always me him for giving me so much workload. But now that I don''t need to work anymore since we don''t have an empire to maintain, I kinda miss those days I don''t have time to breathe." His frown deepened asyers of tears coated his eyes, covering his mouth dramatically. "Damn that Maximus and Marse. I swear I''ll kill them in the most painful way possible if I ever get the chance to meet them again."

    Abel listened to Conan''s mumbling. This had always been how his day yed out since the time there was nothing to destroy in this empire anymore. He would idle,y t wherever he felt like it, and then Conan woulde only to ramble on and on.

    There were other people who survived Abel''s wrath that night and not just Conan, but those who did were just doing their best to hold on to thest thread of their sanity. Staying with Conan and Abel wouldn''t help.

    "Your Majesty, why are you so silent?" Conan sighed, shifting his attention back to Abel after talking nonstop. "Aren''t you angry?"

    "Haimirich is in this state because I was."

    "Rightбн" Conan scratched his head. "I''m asking stupid questions, am I?"<sub> </sub>

    "You are asking repeated questions," Abel corrected. "That''s the hundred and thirty-six times you asked me the same questions."

    "You''re counting?" Conan frowned. "Of course you are. We have nothing else to do."

    Conan slowly copsed on his back, eyes straight to the clear blue sky. "Ahбн this world looked exactly the same as the real world, isn''t it, Your Majesty?"

    "Two hundred and forty-eight for that one."

    "Even when you cut yourself, you''ll still feel a slight pain. It''s actually way worse than the original world." Conan let out another sigh, ignoring Abel''s <strong>''records,''</strong> as this wasn''t the first time Conan would spew the same remarks. "The experience is real, but just that deathбн you''re conscious even if you''re underwater and choking. I can''t imagine living in this world forever. I''m barely holding on to my sanity."

    "Even Roman would spend day and night in Violet''s home like a creep. Thest time I heard, he lost his mind. I mean, he was staring at the flowers Violet grew and the boutique she used to manage. The boutique is probably the only establishment that wasn''t destroyed," he continued, thinking of the other people that were stuck in this world. "How I wish I was as stupid as Morro. That guy is probably the only person who can enjoy this world since Deadmore isn''t here."

    Conan paused, turning his head in Abel''s direction. "Your Majesty, what would you do if somehow we get out of here? I mean to Her Majesty."

    Conan waited for Abel''s answer, and just like the past two years they were in this world, Abel didn''t answer. Abel had always been like this. After wreaking havoc, he just went silent, as if he didn''t want others to know he existed.

    There were still days Abel would suddenly blow up out of nowhere, making everyone in this world rush to him. At first, it was all just a disaster, but then Abel''s episode gradually grew far and few between.

    "Her, huh?" Abel whispered, blinking ever so tenderly. "Hmmбн who knows?"

    Abel slowly closed his eyes and mustered all his weight until his body sank slowly into theke. Conan just watched Abel sink, watching the bubbles form on the water''s surface.

    "What did he mean by that?" Conan murmured, keeping his eyes on the bubbles on the water''s surface where Abel sank. "He always avoids any type of conversation aboutdy Aries that we didn''t even have any concrete n to get out of this world."

    He shifted his eyes back to the sky and sighed. "Lady Aries, just what the hell were you thinking? Once I get out of here, I''ll beat some senses into you."

    Conan snapped his tongue at the thought of Aries and then looked back at theke where Abel sank. The bubbles on the surface already disappeared, making his brows raise.

    "Your Majesty?" called Conan, pushing himself to sit up. "Your Majesty?"

    Conan called Abel until fright swelled in his chest. Out of panic, Conan jumped into theke to ''save'' Abel, but much to his dismay, even when he reached the spot where Abel sank, Abel was gone.

    "What theбн?" Deep lines appeared in between his brows before Conan searched the entireke like a madman, but to no avail.

    Abel just disappeared without a trace.

    "Your Majesty!!!"

 Chapter 729 Welcome Back, Your Majesty.

    The Haimirich Empire.

    Thend that Abel loathed so much for purging him in the days of yore. But instead of destroying it all at once, he built it from scratch until it stood at a height no other kingdom could reach and was known across the world.

    Aries said he was kind for doing this or he was simply craving recognition from the people who purged him. That might be true, but at the same time, there had always been a darker meaning behind his big actions.

    Abel never admitted it even to himself, but deep in his rotten soul, he made this molehill a mountain so no one else could destroy it except him. If he had enough reason to do so, Abel was certain he would destroy everything in one go.

    And that was what happened in this empire in this spirit world.

    Abel destroyed the entire Haimirich in a state of oblivion, but now that there was nothing to destroy, only emptiness remained. He felt like drifting with no particr direction, unable to leave this world. Even if he thought of ways to wake up from this world, this world just nerfed him until he felt powerless.

    Yet, he felt no other emotions bigger than this enormous void in his heart.

    While Conan was rambling on and on, repeating the words he had already said countless times as if he was on a brink of insanity, Abel kept his focus on the clear blue sky. His eyes were listless, slowly losing faith, before closing them ever so tenderly.

    ''What would I do if I see her again, huh?'' he wondered, channeling all his weight to sink into theke.

    Abel held his breath as his body slowly sank. As he sank deeper, he felt no urge to rise above the water. He had always felt like sinking deeper and deeper even when he was walking on the surface of this world. It made no difference in sinking literally.

    While underwater, Abel slowly opened his eyes. All he could see was the blurry waters and the fading light that couldn''t pierce through the deeper part of theke. Although theke wasn''t that deep as it could only reach half of his body if he was standing up, he felt like it somehow felt unnaturally deep like an ocean.

    ''I don''t knowбн'' Abel reached his hand out as his body continued to sink deeper. ''... I''d find out once Iy my eyes on you again, Aries.''

    Soon, his eyes closed as the bottom of this deepeningke sucked him deeper and deeper. Despite theck of air, he didn''t struggle as he submitted to the darkness that was swallowing him whole.

    "Your Majesty! Your Majesty!?"

    Before Abelpletely lose consciousness, he heard the faint voice of Conan followed by the ssh of water.

    ''How strange,'' thought Abel, that even when Conan''s voice was growing closer, it seemed thetter couldn''t find him. Conan''s voice sounded rmed and terrified, but Abel didn''t dwell on the helpless call.

    ''Don''t call me with such a tone,'' was thest thought that crossed Abel''s mind before the darkness weed him into its embrace.

    *

    *

    *<sub> </sub>

    *

    GASP!

    Abel gasped for air the moment his eyes snapped open. His heart thudded violently against his chest as if it was forced to pump blood all over his body. His heartbeat was painful for the first several seconds before he could feel his fingers and toes.

    When his aggressive heartbeats calmed down, he blinked to get a hold of his shaking vision until the high ceiling of the chapel came into sight. He instantly recognized it, but a part of him wondered whether this was reality or the other reality in that damn world.

    ''This isбн'' his thoughts trailed off, catching a figure from the corner of his eyes. Abel slowly shifted his gaze to the person standing beside him, and his eyesy on an extremely pale face that was devoid of any emotion.

    Tilly held his gaze without the slightest reaction, and without a word, she gazed at her palm. A wound was apparent across her palm and the glowing scriptures in the air that were surrounding the altar slowly faded.

    "Abel," she called with her meek and soft voice, closing her hand into a loose fist. She then set her eyes back to the man in the coffin, still no emotion on her face. "Weddings needs food for the guests."

    Abel''s brows rose at the random concern he was hearing right after he opened his eyes after two years of slumber.

    "You''rete for the wedding," Tilly continued in the same tone. "That means you have to shoulder the banquet."

    Abel stared at his sister whom he hadn''t seen since leaving the maind thousands of years ago. He didn''t dwell on her concern immediately, closing his eyes for a moment. When he reopened his eyes, a grunt slipped past his closed lips.

    He raised his stiff hands to the edge of the coffin, pulling his heavy body to sit up.

    "Ahhбн" Abel ran his fingers through his slightly long and untrimmed hair, turning his head to the pews.

    There, he saw multiple people he hadn''t seen before, sitting on the pews. They were looking back at him with a smile, and one of them бк the man with bright silver hair and a pair of crimson eyes бк waved at him happily.

    Abel just scanned his eyes at them, recognizing Sunny, who was sitting on a woman''sp. Sunny had this bright smile and twinkling eyes, excited to see him back. But he didn''t dwell on it as he caught one familiar figure in the corner of his eye.

    Isaiah.

    Abel set his eyes on Isaiah''s figure, only to see his vassal looking back at him with wide eyes. The corner of his lips curled up, bringing back the confidence and sinister look that usually dominated Abel''s countenance.

    "Your Majestyбн" Isaiah''s voice shook, still in disbelief that Abel had woken up from his long slumber. "I''m so d to have wee you back."

    Isaiah lowered his head and ced his fist across his chest. "Wee back, Your Majesty."

 Chapter 730 The Six Seeds

    "Wee back, Your Majesty."

    "It seemed you had met my family before me, Isaiah," Abel smirked, his voice rasped, peeling his eyes from Isaiah to Tilly. "I''mte for the wedding? Whose wedding?"

    "Mine." Tilly pointed at herself, making her big brother arch a brow and cock his head to the side.

    "And who is the brave groom?"

    Tilly slowly pointed in a direction, stopping the myriads of emotions that were swelling in Isaiah''s chest. Thetter''s brows rose as his thought bubble was reced with question marks, confused at this confusion she was creating.

    "Isaiah?" Abel frowned, and Tilly nodded.

    ''Me?'' Deep lines appeared between Isaiah''s brows, and at this point, he didn''t feel sentimental anymore. ''Since when? I wasn''t informed nor do I remember agreeing to a marriage.''

    The moment that thought crossed Isaiah''s mind, a fleeting memory shed in his head.

    "Weddings are only fun when you''re watching it." This was the first remarks Tilly spoke the second she stood face to face with Isaiah. And then this memory was followed by another.

    "Though, you have to prepare yourself because Tilly might''ve misunderstood the time that it''s just the two of you in this ce. Just hope she didn''t."

    Isaiah slowly shifted his eyes to ude, who warned him previously. Was this what ude meant by ''misunderstand?'' Isaiah''s expression slowly turned nk as he thought that Abel wouldn''t believe this. It was obvious this was a misunderstanding!

    "Isaiah, how dare you ask my sister''s hand without the slightest preparation?" Abel snapped his tongue in irritation, snatching the little faith Isaiah had in him. "Surely, unexpected things happen and unexpected rtionships are formed the longer you breathe in this world."

    A deep sigh escaped Abel''s nostrils, shaking his head in dismay. When he lifted his head, his eyes scanned the chapel once again. He didn''t bother about Isaiah''s confusion as if Abel already epted the fact Isaiah was now married in his family.

    "So." Abel cleared his throat, nting a hand on the rim of the coffin. As if he weighed nothing, Abel hopped over the coffin until he was standing beside Tilly.

    "I hadn''t met you all before, but it was nice to meet you." His lips stretched as life slowly shone in his pair of crimson orbs. At the same time, a p of thunder echoed outside, as a sh of lightning shed on his wicked countenance.

    "But before anything else, I have some other important things to do first." Abel cast his sister a side-eye and then set his attention to Isaiah''s. "Where is Conan''s body?"

    Abel''s pupils zoomed in and out like the aperture of a camera.

    "And the rest," he hissed through his gritted teeth. "We can''t celebrate my sister''s wedding without them, can we?"<sub> </sub>

    As his lips stretched wider, some people in the chapel also grinned, pleased at the energy Abel was emanating. Another p of thunder echoed outside the chapel, and as the lighting shed another light, all their eyes shone brightly in the dark.

    The blood that connected them boiled for the same goal, albeit for different reasons.

    Those who weren''t blood-rted to them like Isaiah could not help but gulp. His heart naturally thudded with the thickening aura building up in the chapel, casting a quick scan on the people around. They weren''t looking at him but at Abel, but he could feel their bloodthirsty aura from each of them.

    This was the Grimsbanne n, but somehow, Isaiah was unsure whether to feel honored or threatened to be in this reunion. Marse, Abel, and Sunny in one ce already proved too much for the people of Haimirich бкincluding the night council and royal court бк to handle, what more with more members now in this ce?

    The only reason Abel, Marse, and Sunny didn''t blow up this empire was because of their different goals and ck'' of motivation to go against each other. But now, even though the empire might be safe, Isaiah was certain there was no guarantee for othernds, particrly the Maind.

    After all, these people, the Grimsbanne n, had enough reason to set their undivided attention to the saidnd. Even the people who didn''t have the Grimsbanne blood like that woman named Lilou who had hazel hair and olive eyes, and that other man, Rufus, were individuals Isaiah wouldn''t underestimate as well.

    Isaiah mentally shook his head and rposed himself, stopping himself from dwelling on things that wouldn''t make a difference. When three seconds had passed, Isaiah raised his head. This time, his expression returned to his ssic stoic countenance.

    "I''ll lead the way," offered Isaiah sternly. "Please follow me."

    *************

    [ MAINLAND: ROYAL PALACE ]

    Arge group of servants and knights stood at the entrance of the royal pce, standing at arm''s length from each other. Before the servants was a royal carriage bearing the royal insignia of the Queen''s distinguished guest.

    When a knight opened the door of the carriage from the outside, the servants beckoned a deep bow.

    A man with dark auburn hair shone under the moonlight, taking the steps down carefully. When he reached the concrete ground, he lifted his pair of silver eyes at the glorious castle behind the servants.

    "I already told her I''d rather have her wee me privately instead of showing off her power," murmured Ismael, sighing faintly at this grand wee he tried to avoid but to no avail.

    "Wee, Your Majesty from the mightynd of the new Maganti." Ismael snapped his eyes to the voice from the side. His eyesnded on a middle-aged man, wearing a luxurious uniform with the Queen''s brooch on his chest.

    "I am the Queen''s secretariat, Gustav, and I''m here under the orders of the Queen to wee her precious friend." Gustav, still the Queen''s secretary and also her chief deputy of the Queen''s cab, faced Ismael with a smile. "Her Majesty, the Queen, was waiting for you, Sire. Allow me to lead the way."

    Ismael kept his lips in a thin line before he nodded. "I guess I have no choice. Go. Lead the way before the rain falls. It''s been months since I''ve seen her, and I''m looking forward to this newly established Summit."

 Chapter 731 Private Audience With The Queen

    The world summit was a gathering of sovereign nations from across the globe to talk about peace, trade, and serious matters that concerned the world. Out of 245 countries in the world, 193 of them were active participants.

    It was usually held every five or ten years; sometimes, the interval was longer. Never once in history records that a world summit had shorter than a five-year interval until now.

    Although this year''s summit held a different agenda, which was to wee the rising kingdom of the creatures of the night. Bold and dangerous as it may sound to step their feet in the saidnd, but apparently, those who received the royal invitation from the infamous Queen didn''t have a choice. Refusing her invitation could be equal to a deration of an adversary.

    Not all kings or emperors were daring enough to go against the Queen, who ruled over thend of those ''demon descents.'' Thus, they epted the invitation and after months, those prominent figures from across the world hade into one ce, one after another.

    One of them was the emperor of the new Maganti Empire, Ismael Imperial.

    "Please. Her Majesty, the Queen is inside." Gustav faced Ismael with a subtle smile, moving his arm to the shut door whilst standing to the side.

    Ismael arched a brow, cocking his head to the side. Seeing his reaction, Gustav''s polite smile remained.

    "This is the farthest I can apany you, Your Majesty," exined Gustav courteously.

    "Ahh..." Ismael rocked his head, not putting much thought into the reason Gustav couldn''t apany him inside. He set his eyes on the door, took a step forward, and raised his fist to knock. But before his knuckles could touch the surface of the door, Gustav spoke.

    "There was no need to knock, Your Majesty. Her Majesty, the Queen said you let youe in anytime."

    Ismael stopped, turning his head to Gustav. All he saw was thetter raising his palm, pointing at the door.

    "She doesn''t like unnecessary noises," Gustav added.

    Ismael took that as the queen, not wanting others to know they met. The Summit hadn''t started yet because there were still several monarchs from farawaynds that hadn''t made it to the Maind.

    "Alright." He nodded in understanding, clearing his throat as he refocused his attention on the door. Even though Gustav told him he didn''t need to knock, Ismael felt a slight difort barging into the Queen''s sitting room without announcing his arrival.

    Ismael awkwardly reached for the knob, drawing a breath to ease the slight nervousness in his heart. He then carefully pushed the door open, took a step forward, and closed the door behind him just as carefully. Once he straightened his back, his eyes searched the room.

    The room he went into was akin to a sitting room with another open room connected to it. Thinking Aries was on the other side, Ismael marched inside until he was standing in the middle where he could see the extension of the room.

    When he turned his head, his face contorted.

    There, on the other side of the room, was a gigantic, round bathtub. Lush green dangled over the rim as the person dipped in the tub was lying with the back of her head against the tub. From his vantage, Ismael could only see the top of the queen''s head.<sub> </sub>

    <strong>''No wonder he couldn''t enter,''</strong> thought Ismael to himself. <strong>''She''s bathing. Did he take me here to frame me?''</strong>

    Negative thoughts immediately hovered over Ismael''s head, despite knowing that Aries was an ally of his empire. No one could tell what was going on inside this woman''s head, after all. She could cut their alliance if she so pleased, and Ismael was aware he couldn''t do anything about it if that happened.

    <strong>''Well... she didn''t know I was here, right? I didn''t make a sound, so...'' </strong>Ismael took a careful step back, nning to leave this room to avoid any ''misunderstanding'' or any bad interpretation this private audience could lead.

    However, just as he took a step back, Ismael froze on the spot.

    "Did hee?"

    Ismael slowly shifted his eyes to the person dipped in the tub. She didn''t move from her spot, but hearing that familiar calm yet cold voice after a long time made him gulp.

    "No." He cleared his throat, retrieving his foot as he stood straight. She didn''t mention a name, but he immediately knew who was the person she was pertaining to. There was only one person she was concerned about that Ismael knew.

    Curtis.

    "He wanted to and insisted oning with me as my knight, but I refused," he continued solemnly. "I don''t think you want to deal with him at the moment, Your Majesty."

    Silence followed the news he brought with him, making him a little nervous about her thoughts about his decision. Upon the establishment of the Maind in the outside world, many were shocked. Those who were already aware of the existence of vampires just grew wary.

    But in Maganti, when they knew who the person sitting on the throne was, the Grand Duke of Rikhill, Curtis, had been restless. He had requested a private audience with the emperor, Ismael, more than he had since the official recognition of Rikhill as an official state of the Maganti Empire.

    Curtis sought enlightenment from Ismael, hoping thetter knew more about this. But s, Ismael wasn''t as well-informed as others thought he was. He knew some details, but not everything. Ismael didn''t also pry, knowing there were certain things that were better left unknown.

    All he knew was everything that Aries told him; that was all. Everything she hadn''t said, Ismael could only make a guess to kill time or if he wanted his head to hurt.

    It was better that way.

    "I see..." was all he heard in response after two minutes of silence.

    "The chief of the Queen''s cab led me to this ce, but I assume there was a misunderstanding between us. Therefore, I''ll excuse myself first and meet you when you are prepared to receive a private audience --" Ismael was cut short when her short wave ofughter echoed, caressing his ears. Her chuckles were very pleasant in the ear, although one couldn''t deny the tinge of chill her chuckle carried.

 Chapter 732 Private Audience With The Queen II

    "There''s no misunderstanding, I guarantee you with that. I told Gustav to take you here to get two things done at the same time." Ismael watched Aries move ever so slowly, peeling her back from the tub until she was sitting up in the middle of the tub. Her back was facing him. "I won''t have much timeter since many kings had set foot in the Maind and I have to greet them one by one."

    When he caught her nting her hands on rims, Ismael lowered his eyes as she stood bare. Aries extended her arms, and as if on cue, the maid standing on the side approached her. The servant helped her slip her arms inside the robe, sauntering away after fulfilling their duty, while Aries tied the front part of the robe.

    Aries slowly turned around, smirking upon seeing him looking at the floor. "It''s only been a while since we''vest seen each other. I''m appalled at how you quickly became a gentleman."

    "I am always a gentleman, Queen." Ismael mentally snapped his tongue, stopping himself from raising his eyes.

    "Avoiding my eyes when I am talking is quite insulting."

    Ismael lifted his eyes, only to see her standing beside the bathtub. Her green hair was damp, sticking to her slender shoulder, wrapped in a thin fabric. He could almost see everything through that robe if only he focus on her body. But Ismael kept his eyes on her pair of eyes that didn''t bear the same rity and righteousness.

    Aries was just as stunning, but her aura felt different.

    She felt dangerous.

    "Apologies," he expressed monotonously. "Allow me to greet Your Majesty, the Queen."

    Ismael threw all unnecessary thoughts and focused on his duty as a participant of the summit and also her ally. He was also an emperor, and he had people to protect. In this alliance, the Maganti were benefiting more. So it was only proper to act ordingly before her, even if she didn''t want to practice even the slightest decency. Well, considering the person who ''mentored'' her in the past had no notion of what decency was, it shouldn''t be surprising it rubbed off on her.

    He marched towards the other side of the room and stopped two steps before her, offering his hand.

    "May I?" he asked, and she smiled before sping his hand. "I, Ismael Imperial, the Emperor of the new Maganti, greet Her Majesty, the Queen of the iparable Maind."

    Ismael bent over, nting his lips on her knuckles and getting a whiff of the rose aroma on her skin. He kept his eyes on her, seeing her smile back at him as a greeting.

    "Wee, my dear." As he carefully released her hand, Aries nced at the head maid of the Queen''s court standing in the corner of the extension of the room. "Gertrude, prepare us some tea."

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    Pleased, Aries faced Ismael once again. "Will you join me for a cup of tea, Your Majesty?"

    "Ismael is fine, Your Majesty," he returned politely, lowering his head slightly. "And it is an honor for me to share a cup of tea with you."

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    If Ismael didn''t know Aries before and they didn''t have thisplicated history, he would deem her slightly offensive. Both of them were monarchs, and meeting each other, even if it was a secret meeting, required the slightest bit of etiquette.<sub> </sub>

    And by that, he meant her clothing.

    Aries wasn''t in her robe anymore as she changed into a white chemise with a shawl wrapped around her shoulders and arms. While she was changing, Ismael sat down on the other side of the room near the firece, where she joined him and they were served tea.

    Now that they were sitting across from each other, Ismael had to keep in mind to keep his eyes on her face. Good thing he had learned how to focus and not get distracted by the surroundings as the emperor of the Maganti Empire. Hence, he couldn''t care less. Even so, herck of clothes was inappropriate. Though he knew it was unnecessary to point it out.

    "First things first. I am d that you reached thisnd without any problems." Aries broke the silence between them as she reached for the teacup. "Many had voiced out their displeasure of the dangers before reaching thisnd. So, Imend all those who managed."

    "The area surrounding thisnd and the sea are truly challenging to ovee. I thank you for giving me a forewarning and thus, I was able to anticipate what was ahead of us," Ismael expressed, clear at the line between them.

    "I''m d it helped." She smiled after gulping the tea. "Veronika had also arrived yesterday. She was looking for you."

    "I hope no one had yet heard the news of my arrival,"

    "Do not worry." Aries chuckled as she ced the teacup back on the table. "The arrivals of the monarchs were kept a secret. There were other kings and royalties who wanted to stay in their chambers until the day of the Summit. Hence, we want to respect that. Although it is out of our jurisdiction if they cross paths with people they do not want to see beforehand."

    "That is understandable."

    Her smile remained, assessing his face. "How are you, Ismael?"

    "Hmm?" His brows rose, a little confused at that least expected question. "I''ve sent you letters, Your Majesty. I am well and quite preupied with the matters of the court. Although the empire had slowly adjusted and everything quieted down, I can''t safely say it had stabilized. Changes need time, and the Maganti will need a lot of it until they break the bad practices and habits of our empire."

    "Imend your courage and hard work. Thus, I and the Maind were grateful that you still made time to attend this summit despite your busy schedule."

    "I am not the only one who had people to look after, Your Majesty." His lips curled up into a subtle smile that didn''t reach his eyes. "Everyone who came in here had matters to settle and people to protect. Perhaps not everyone, but most. Yet, we came in here because you sent us invitations."

    "Are you insinuating I intimidated them?"

    "No, Queen. We simply knew that when someone such as yourself invites us toe and visit, it is rude not to go." Ismael''s smile slowly faded. "Though I have an entirely different reason why I came in here."

    "Oh?" Aries propped her elbow against the armrest and rested her jaw on her knuckles. "And what is that?"

    "Whyбн" Ismael drew a deep breath as he mustered enough courage to ask one question. "... why did everyone forget about the Haimirich Empire?"

    <strong>****** AUTHOR''S NOTE:</strong>

    Hello everyone! I hope you are all alright.

    Because of the typhoon, the area where I lived lost electricity for days. A part of our home got destroyed, but thankfully, I and my family are all safe. :) I hope nothing bad happened to any of you.

 Chapter 733 Peeking At The Different Road

    "Why did everyone forget about the Haimirich Empire?"

    Ismael''s expression turned solemn, keeping his gaze on Aries''s stunning face. Two years ago, the world just seemed to forget about the Haimirich Empire, but somehow, Ismael and a few others, like Curtis, didn''t.

    It was understandable if Curtis hadn''t forgotten since he received help from Abel. ording to Isaiah, Abel was keeping Curtis alive. Therefore, whatever happened in this world or whatever powerful ability would a vampire unleash, Curtis wouldn''t get affected.

    But Ismael was uncertain of why he could remember and why Aries did what she did to the Haimirich Empire.

    "Is there any reason for everyone to remember my dearest Haimirich?" Aries blinked, making Ismael furrow his brows at herzy response. "What for? To them it a target to ruin?"

    "Queen бк"

    "First, Rikhill. Second, Maganti." Aries straightened her back but kept her elbow propped on the armrest. "All thends I was about to rule or gained authority over shared onemon end. The Rikhill fell, and so was the Maganti Empire."

    "What happened in the Maganti Empire isn''t the same as what urred in Rikhill."

    "It fell, Ismael." Her tone grew firmer without having to raise her voice. "Whatever you say or wherever you look at it, the Maganti Empire fell when I was the crown princess. Whether it was intentional or it happened without my involvement, you and I know something like that will happen, eventually."

    His lips parted to argue with her, but his tongue just rolled back in his throat. That was right. When Aries became the crown princess, the brewing tension between Ismael and Joaquin was gaining momentum rapidly.

    "I am not capable enough." Ismael lowered his eyes to hide the bitterness that came along with that confession. "Without you, the Maganti and Joaquin will not fall. If anything, I will lose the battle I picked."

    "No." He slowly raised his head upon her reply, only to see her shake her head. "You will win, Ismael. With or without my help, you and Roman were bound to win."

    "You''re only saying that to give justification to your actions бк"

    "Bold of you to say that in front of me, but I''ll let it slide for old times'' sake." Aries cut him mid-sentence, showing no sign of irritation at Ismael''s remarks.

    "Apologies. I''m simply expressing what I am certain would''ve happened without you, and giving some light to Her Majesty''s contribution to the sess of the revolt."

    ? "And I am also speaking with certainty, Ismael." Confidence covered her face, keeping her gaze locked with his. "The only contribution I did is to hasten your sess, but I can bet my title that your fate is bound to ovee all adversaries even if your enemy has the upper hand."<sub> </sub>

    "I''ve seen it." Aries nted her hand on the armrest, pushing herself up. She sauntered toward the door, hiding her body with the shawl until she stopped in front of the window.

    "I''ve seen your fate, I mean. Ismael Imperial, the third prince of the Maganti Empire. The time the crown prince ascend the throne after the death of the sickly emperor, the third prince would start a revolt. Obviously, with the massive military control, the new emperor had, the third prince stood no chance. You will lose many people, Ismael, and nearly lose your life. Thanks to Roman, the leader of the Valiente Group, you''d survive," she continued, watching a sh of lightning in the night sky far away from the maind. "Having a taste of a bitter defeat and losing the lives of your people just like Enrique, the fourth prince, Ismael, will grow while he was in hiding."

    "The ninth princess, Inez, would still live. She''s a wise woman and sided with Joaquin. But not because she sided with the new emperor, her greed for power didn''t grow. With people like you, the greedy Inez, and Roman who would eventually lose Violet after Carlos''s abuse of her reached its peak, somehow, you three worked on amon goal."

    "Not just you, but because of the tyrant of an emperor Joaquin had be, many others woulde to support you. One of them would be Modesto Vida, the chief justice, who would also be a high bishop," Aries added gently, but her voice wasced with certainty. "Some witches as well wille to your side. The witches didn''t want anything to do with politics, but when Joaquin purged them one after another, they could only go to the person who can stand a chance against the emperor."

    Aries slowly turned around to face Ismael, who was still sitting on the chair. She crossed her arms, keeping the shawl wrapped around her shoulder and chest.

    "Vito, the youngest prince, will alsoe to your side. He would be an exceptional swordsman, by the way. Some kingdoms too that were tired of the emperor''s oppression, like the Chivisea and the smallnd of Nuirus, wille to your side. Garnering such massive support, the third prince will once again march to the capital to overthrow Joaquin''s regime." Her lips curled up subtly, nodding. "You will seed then, Ismael."

    Ismael listened silently to the story she was uttering, which was entirely different from what had urred. He couldn''t say he believed her entirely, but with such conviction in her voice, he couldn''t confidently say she was lying.

    "Do you know what''s the most interesting with all of this?" her smile stretched while his brows rose. "Once you sessfully y Joaquin to his death with the help of the witches, you''de to my room, where he kept me hidden."

    "Huh?"

    "Yes, Ismael." Aries rocked her head. "This was what would happen if I didn''t escape from the summit back then and didn''t meet Abel. Joaquin will make me his empress. Touching, isn''t it?"

    "Your Majesty бк"

    "Thank you for saving me then, Ismael." She kept her lips curl up as sincerity swirled in her eyes. "Even when you killed all the emperor''s people, you granted the empress mercy and offered her a new life away from that hell."

    Ismael''s jaw tightened as he balled his hands into tight fists.

    "And by that, I meant granting me the death I sought." Her eyes softened, and she looked at peace. "I could still remember those sad eyes you bore after wielding your sword, and how you held my body from falling while your sword was deep in my stomach."

    Her smile broadened. "I didn''t know you and I will have such special feelings for each other. It''s interesting, isn''t it? How one event, one decision, and one encounter can change everything."

 Chapter 734 Peeking At The Different Road II

    Was it out of pity? Or was their fate meant to be tangled in an erratic mess that was meant to end tragically?

    Out of curiosity, Aries peeked at the different paths people had in life. She found it interesting how a person''s decision, life events, and such could have different oues.

    For instance, Ismael.

    His life would have its own up and down, spiraling into a total mess before attaining his goal. One of thoseplicated messes before his sess was Aries.

    If Aries didn''t flee Joaquin''s clutches and didn''t meet Abel, she would return to the Maganti Empire, where she would meet Ismael. Even when Ismael and Aries lived within the imperial pce, Ismael was someone who didn''t want to pry too much into Joaquin''s affairs. At least, not those types of affairs.

    But somehow, someway, he meets her. And just like how Carlos was mesmerized by her stunning beauty despite her pathetic state, she would capture the third prince''s heart. The only difference was that Carlos did the unimaginable, but Ismael exercisepassion.

    Unfortunately, Ismael was just too powerless, and his first revolt failed miserably.

    In the second revolt yearster, Ismael seeded. Joaquin and his regime ended. It was a feat everyone celebrated; the night, the rebels hoisted their gs in the imperial pce. The Maganti was free. While everyone outside was busy seizing everyone and taking control of the imperial pce, Ismael had a different agenda.

    Standing in the middle of the empress''s chambers, Ismael held his sword until it trembled. His fiery silver eyes were fixed on the woman, wearing a in white dress before the open window. The moonlight shone on her long, straight, green hair, giving her an elegant luster like a goddess бк an angel trapped and caged in this room.

    "You did it." Aries''s voice was soft and weak, turning her upper body to face her visitor.

    The moment she faced him, his eyes fell on the blood that stained her chest. Blood dripped off of the corner of her smiling lips. She had these soft eyes, holding this sense of pride and relief underneath those pairs of emeralds.

    "Now you only have onest step, Your Highness." Her smile remained, nodding encouragingly. "End me."

    Ismael gulped, opening his quivering lips.

    "Go." He breathed out. "I will burn down this ce. While it''s on fire, run to the farther east. Vito will be there waiting for you."

    Aries smiled subtly. "And where will he take me?"

    "Far away from here."

    Her eyes softened, advancing in his direction without any trace of fear. Aries stopped three steps from his vantage point where she could reach the tip of his sword.

    "No matter how far I run and hide, nothing will change Ismael." Aries clipped the tip of his sword and raised it slightly. "It''s been many years since the downfall of Rikhill, and it''s been many years that had passed."

    Aries lifted her eyes back to him with a subtle smile. "I am just d to live and witness the day Joaquin meets his demise."

    "I thank you for letting it happen. You might''ve done this because of many things, but for me, it is the revenge I sought for." She held the des with the tip right before her stomach. "I am tired, Your Highness. If I am going to die, it would be my honor to die in the hands of the man I yearned for every single day."

    "Release me from this torment, Your Highness." The irony of her request was that she looked more at peace, and that broke his heart. "You promised to grant me one wish back then, and this is my wish."

    Ismael''s jaw tightened as a thinyer of tears coated his eyes. "I''mte, aren''t I?"

    "No." She shook her head, smiling. "You were just right on time."

    His breathing slowed down, assessing her peaceful countenance. From what he had learned, the empress had been sick and, ording to the spy he nted in her shadow, her sickness might take her soon. The blood that stained her white dress and the smeared blood on the corner of her lips confirmed she was suffering. Whether he listened to her wishes or let her live just because he was reluctant to let her go, Aries would still die.<sub> </sub>

    "You are so cruel," he whispered, making her smile stretch.

    "Perhaps, I am."

    Silence descended on the empress''s chambers as neither of them talked. Ismael kept his eyes down, unable to thrust his sword, just as she wished. After another second of nothing but silence, her loud coughs pierced through the still air.

    Ismael gazed up, only to see her coughing out blood, and she seemed to be in terrible pain. When she stopped coughing, Aries wiped the blood on her lips with the back of her hand.

    "Please," she whispered, wincing at the pain within her. "Don''t keep me caged anymore."

    His face contorted with pain, clenching his teeth. Those words and that look in her eyes, Ismael knew his reluctance would only bring nothing but suffering to her. Just like others who bore feelings for her бк Joaquin, Inez, Carlos, and all the others бк it would simply destroy her as well.

    "Iбн hate you," he confessed with a jagged breath, mustering his courage to thrust his sword into her stomach.

    Her expression softened after her breath hitched, holding the des on instincts. Instead of writhing in pain, Aries felt relieved and amused at how easy and fragile her life was. As her life slowly slipped away from her grip, her body felt heavy, falling to the ground. However, Ismael took arge step, catching her and holding her body down ever so carefully.

    Aries snapped her weary eyes as he cradled her body on the floor. Tearsnded on her pale cheek, seeing how his tears fill his eyes. She raised a hand to touch his face affectionately.

    "Don''t cry," she whispered weakly. "I am happy to have seen you reach this far."

    Ismael sniffed and replied through his gritted teeth. "What would I do without you?"

    "Many things." She smiled subtly, her vision zooming in and out as her consciousness slowly slipped away from her control. "Thank you, Ismael."

    Ismael was unable to say anything, holding her hand that was on his cheek, and leaned over his face to feel the slight warmth of her rough palms. When his eyes fell on her thigh and then on the exposed part of her body, he could see the terrible bruises up close.

    His heart sank at the sight of her body, shifting his eyes to meet hers. Aries smiled at him for thest time before her eyes closed ever so slowly. All he could do was silently weep whilst embracing her dead body, before carrying her out of the empress''s pce, where everyone was waiting for the new emperor.

    <strong>Dramatic and tragic. </strong>

    That was what Aries thought about this route.

    If Aries hadn''t met Abel, she would''ve died around this time in the hands of the man she didn''t expect to love. Everything would''ve ended then. Seeing this course of life that could''ve happened, Aries didn''t feel sentimental or anything of the sort. All she felt was amusement and fascination.

    "I didn''t know you and I will have such special feelings for each other. It''s interesting, isn''t it? How one event, one decision, and one encounter can change everything." Her smile looked amused, arching a brow as she caught a figure outside the window.

    Aries looked back, only to see a particr butler standing in the vast expanse whilst staring in a particr direction. She snapped her eyes up and caught another bolt of lightning in the sky before it started pouring into the maind.

    "Your Majesty, I don''t know why you are suddenly saying this, but бк" Ismael stopped when Aries suddenly raised a finger to stop him.

    "Hahбн" His brows furrowed, seeing her turn around to face the window squarely. "... oh, dear. He got out."

    "Pardon?"

    Aries cocked her head back, smiling mischievously at him. "It seemed the summit will be more interesting than expected. You should put your bets before it''s toote."

 Chapter 735 Python

    "Your Majesty! Your Majesty! This isn''t a funny joke бк where are you?!"

    Conan was already gassing out after searching the entireke for Abel but to no avail. He couldn''t find Abel, making his heart thud in panic.

    "Your Majesty!" he yelled his lungs out, looking around at theke. "Your Majesty! I know you''re sad that Lady Aries left you all alone here, but this is too much! Your Majesty!"

    Conan yelled and yelled until his throat was hurting, making him snap his tongue in irritation. How could this happen? No matter how fast Abel was, he wouldn''t be able to get out of theke without Conan noticing.

    "Did he dig his grave under theke?" he wondered, gazing down at theke where he was standing. "He''s been floating here бк did he make it look like he was just floating here and then digging a grave when no one is looking?"

    Conan scrunched his nose up, dragging his legs to feel the bottom of theke with his boots. Realizing wearing boots wouldn''t help, Conan took them off and threw them outside theke. He then resumed his search with his feet feeling the bottom of theke.

    The thought that Abel got out of this world crossed his mind. However, Conan didn''t entertain the thought because there was no way Abel could just leave this world on his own. Unless Aries was ready for a good scolding, then she would''ve let him out. He highly doubted that was the case, though.

    Abel had done everything he could and even destroyed almost all living things in the empire when he tried getting out of this world. Obviously, he failed. That was why Conan was convinced it was either Abel buried himself down theke or he was just pulling another prank on Conan.

    "Damn it!" Conan grumbled, burying his toes an inch from the bottom of theke to see if there was anything he could find. "Why am I the only one that should apany him? I should be just as selfish as Roman or Morro. Those two had it easy бк I''m about to lose my mind just babysitting that crazy empe бк"

    Conan stopped mid-sentence as he felt something hard on his toe. He kept shoving his toe, ignoring the dirt sticking into his toenails. His brows then rose.

    "It''s wood," mumbled Conan, eyes lighting up. "I knew it! He sank and then went straight to a coffin. Hah! I''ve been in this line of work to know every shenanigan that''s going on in his head."

    Conan giggled evilly, squatting down with his hands reaching theke''s floor. It didn''t cross him that he might get in trouble if he sabotaged Abel''s ns to bury himself.

    "How dare he bury himself alone? If he wants to have a vacation underwater, it''s only right to take me with him!" his nose res up, scraping off the wood''s surface with his fingertips. "He knows I''d go insane бк I think I already snapped being stuck in this fallen kingdom with nothing else to do бк huh?"

    His face froze when he felt something wrap around his wrist. It wasn''t a hand, that was for sure. A sense of dread crept up his spine because whatever was around his wrist, its texture made all the hair on his body raise.

    With dread stered on his face, Conan carefully raised his hand over the water''s surface. There, snaking around his arm, was a giant python hissing at him.

    "Ahбн" Conan let out an abrupt noise, holding his breath as his brain processed what was right before him. When his brain snapped to rity, his mouth parted even bigger before a piercing scream disturbed the surroundings.

    "Ah!! Get off of me! Your Majesty бк help!!!" Conan flung his arm, shaking it in a hurry to get the snake out of his arm, eyes shut, screaming like a little girl. "Kyahh!!! Get off бк"

    Amid his intense screaming, Conan bit his tongue when he felt another force wrap around his feet. His expression deadpanned, holding his breath, feeling whatever was on his ankle pull him slowly.<sub> </sub>

    "Uhбн noбн" his leg moved back, making him gasp. "Holyбн ahh бк"

    His screams grew muffled as the force suddenly pull his ankle down theke with intense force. His mouth bubbled and without thinking, he covered his mouth despite that there was a snake around his arm.

    Conan gazed down at his feet while holding his breath, only to see a wrinkly hand with long dirty nails around his ankle. His eyes dted in horror, but before he could act, the hand holding his ankle pulled him down. Conan didn''t even notice that the bottom of theke felt deeper than it should be. He tried struggling, kicking the hand with his other foot, but to no avail.

    Conan held his breath for as long as he could and struggled the best he could. But s, his best wasn''t enough. He felt powerless and his kicks grew weaker and weaker. Soon, his vision blurred as his consciousness slowly slipped out of his control.

    <strong>''I swearбн''</strong> was what his mind muttered.<strong> ''... if this is another prank he is pulling on me, I''ll challenge him to a duel. Haimirich was no more and a destructive duelбн doesn''t seem badбн ah damn itбн''</strong>

    Conan blinked his eyes weakly until they closed. His hand that was covering his mouth slowly moved away. As hisst bit of consciousness slipped past his grip, the snake around his arm hissed. The snake slowly released his arm, slithering freely on the water until it was facing Conan.

    Hissбн

    The python''s green eyes shone brightly, hissing as if studying Conan''s face. The snake''s eyes glinted before turning, swimming away from Conan while thetter continued to sink deeper and deeper.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>GASP!</strong>

    Conan gasped for air the moment he snapped his eyes open. His mouth was open, tasting the tasteless liquid pattering on his open mouth and face.

    "Wee back, Conan."

    Shocked, Conan blinked until he caught several figures gazing down at him. There, standing among the few unfamiliar faces, was Abel with a shovel on his shoulder and his other hand on his hip.

    "Missed me?"

 Chapter 736 Please Take That Love Back

    "Wee back, Conan. Missed me?" Abel''s grin stretched even broader. His hair was dripping as they all stood under the pouring rain and his clothes were damp, sticking to his skin that gave a glimpse of his toned body.

    Conan studied Abel and their distance, only to realize he woke up in a coffin that Abel had to dig. Did Aries hate him so much that she buried his body while he was trapped in that world? Before Conan''s thoughts go wild, he halted upon hearing the familiar adorable face.

    "Good to see you again, Handsome Uncle~!" Conan''s eyes shifted to the voice, only to see Sunny in Isaiah''s arms under a parasol. "I missed bonding with you."

    Sunny, as usual, had this adorable grin that reached her squinting eyes. Her expression didn''t match her all-ck attire.

    "All ckбн" whispered Conan, scanning the unfamiliar faces and looking down at him curiously. He didn''t dwell on their faces or the natural aura they were emitting, but his focus was on their clothes. "Why are you all wearing ck? Were you holding my funeral?"

    "Handsome Uncle is always so funny! Sunny didn''t expect that''s what you would say the moment you wake up from your two-year slumber!" Sunny chuckled happily, bringing a frown to Conan''s face.

    "He is strange." Suddenly, a meek voice of a woman reached Conan''s ears, making him shift his eyes to a pale woman standing next to Isaiah. "He looks silly as well."

    "You look like you''re about to kick the bucket!" Conan harrumphed on instinct, causing a loud ''pfft'' from someone in the group. Conan shifted his re to a young man, who was trying to hold hisughter until he was hunching in. "Who are these people?"

    "It took you exactly three minutes to ask that question." Another man with shiny silver hair raised three fingers бк from his thumb to the middle бк which caught Conan''s attention. "Quite slow, I''d say."

    The woman standing next to the silver-haired man elbowed him lightly. "Shut up, Sam."

    "Father isn''t lying, though." Another boy around his teen chimed in, gazing down at Conan while nodding in agreement. "He is quite slow."

    "Please have mercy on my dearest advisor. He''s been through a lot for the past two years." Abel chuckled as he nced at the people around him. "His brain needs a little bit of a break."

    "Weren''t you all on a break for the past two years, though?" the young man named ude, who was previously holding hisughter, joined the conversation.

    "Don''t expose them like that." The young teen, Law,zily returned while gazing at Conan and then at Abel with an air of nonchnce. "It will hurt their pride."

    "Abel is useless," Tilly joined in, pursing her lips when her brother''s eyesnded on her. She raised a finger and pointed at Isaiah beside her. "That''s what my husband said."

    Isaiah kept his stoic face as if he heard nothing, while Sunny giggled.

    "..." Meanwhile, Conan''s expression died the longer he listened to this conversation unfolding. Just what in hell was this casual conversation while he was still lying in this damn coffin?

    "It''s raining heavily." Finally, someone who noticed that they were standing under the pouring rain spoke. "We should get him out of there and hurry inside. I''m famished."

    "Oh, dear. That''s not good. Let''s go inside, love." Samael, the silver-haired man, crooned beside her. "I''ll surely make you something бк"

    "Mother, let''s head in. I''ll help you in the kitchen until everyone wakes up." Law jumped to his mother''s side and held her hand before his father could even think of anything indecent. "Come. I''m also hungry."<sub> </sub>

    The woman with hazel hair and bright olive eyes chuckled, letting her son drag her back to the forbidden mansion. "Tilly and Sir Isaiah, let''s go. We can''t let the newlywed do the hardbor, can we? Let the gentlemen do the job."

    "Tilly likes biscuits, Lilou." Tilly''s remarks were only heard by Isaiah as she turned around to follow.

    Since Isaiah was holding Sunny and the parasol, he had no choice but to follow Tilly''s steps. Isaiah didn''t even look back, telling himself he would rather enjoy thest minutes of his peace before Conan finds out Isaiah was the person who buried him.

    "Damn!" Samael snapped his tongue in irritation, turning to Abel. "See that? My wife keeps saying I ampeting with our children for attention when, in fact, they see me as the enemy. They make me look like the bad guy бк I just saved the world!"

    "Congrattions, then." Abel casually nodded.

    "No need."

    Abel smiled. "It''s a must, for your mother didn''t have any reason to until now."

    "Hahбн" Samael gazed at Abel from head to toe before he grinned, raising his thumb to Abel. "I like you more and more."

    "The feeling is mutual."

    "I''m d that you two are going along well, but will you just talk like that?" ude interrupted their exchange, staring at Conan with aplicated expression. "Water will soon flood the coffin while he is still there. Half of his body was still under the soil."

    "ude." ude turned his head to Rufus бк the man who didn''t speak a word since the beginning бк and caught the shovel flying toward him on instinct. "Start digging. I don''t think we should rely on them."

    "Oy, Rufus. How can you say that? My uncle and I are simply trying to get to know each other! What is wrong with that?" Samael frowned while Abel nodded in agreement.

    "Haha! Uncle, there''s nothing wrong with that, but we have a man to rescue."

    "That''s the point, my dearest grandchild. We are doing a rescue, and not just burying a body," Abel argued in a knowing tone.

    "Oh, Lord." Conan kept his eyes on the dark sky, ignoring the rainnding on his face. "Please bring me back to the Spirit World. I don''t want to deal with another spawn of evil on top of the emperor of thisnd."

    "Poor thing." Samael shook his head, jumping off to the grave pit to start digging. "Don''t worry, Conan. I will get you out of here and shower you with love."

    "You have all my love as well, dearest Conan." Abel crooned.

    "Please take that love back." Conan closed his eyes while the men started digging, listening to Abel and Samael''s conversation before ude joined in to add more twists and insanity.

 Chapter 737 How The World Was Screwed For The Past Two Years

    Abel leaned back leisurely. His arms spread on the armrest, sitting on the head seat, eyes on Conan. Unlike his usual table manners, Conan just gobbled up the food he could reach as if Sunny''s spirit possessed him.

    "Handsome Uncle, didn''t you eat anything for the past two years?" asked Sunny, pursing her lips as she gazed at the disappearing food on the table. Her mother prepared a feast for all of them, but at this rate, she wouldn''t fill her stomach because Conan suddenly earned an appetite after his slumber.

    "What do you think we''ve been doing for the past two years in that damn world?" Conan''s reply was almost uninterpretable, speaking with his mouth full.

    "Sunny, baby, here." Sunny turned her head to her mother, who was sitting just right beside her. "Your grandpa and uncles had a harsh two years, so they''re famished."

    "Sunny had a tough two years as well." Sunny pouted while her mother smiled subtly, patting the little girl''s head.

    "I''ll make you moreter, hmm?"

    "Mother, if you just keep feeding her, Sunny will just continue to inte. I''m afraid she''d someday float in the sky like a balloon." Law бк sitting on his mother''s right бк raised his concern, warranting a re from his little sister. "What? I''m just concerned."

    "Cousin, aren''t you a little harsh to your little sister?" ude, sitting from across Law and beside Tilly, cocked his head to the side. "You should focus on how you''ll get taller. You''re almost at the age of marrying, but you still look like a kid."

    ude smirked while Law frowned, ncing at Sunny to wink at her. The little girl giggled, raising her chin at her brother as if taunting him.

    "ude, stop teasing your cousins, please?" The woman, Lilou, shook her head mildly. "Finish your meal so that..."

    Lilou trailed off as the food on ude''s te disappeared in a blink of an eye. Her face scrunched up slightly, shifting her eyes to Conan, who was eating everything within his reach.

    "That''s mine... " ude frowned, only to hear Law snicker.

    "Serves you right." Law arched his brow tauntingly, resuming his meal lest Conan go crazy and steal his food as well.

    Thanks to Conan''s appetite, Sunny and Law also didn''t waste time eating, afraid their food will get stolen by Conan. The meal continued in silence, with Conan not caring about anything other than filling his stomach.

    There were a few who barely touched their food: Abel, Samael on his left, Tilly on his right, and Rufus sitting in the farthest seat. Abel scanned the people surrounding the long dining table.

    At this point, he already got himself familiar with these people. Strange because Abel rarely remembered names, or rather, he purposely doesn''t because he never gave a damn.

    "Hah!" Conan rubbed his tummy after just a few minutes, burping as he felt revitalized after having a feast. "That hit the spot."

    When Conan raised his head, his brows rose upon seeing the eyes cast upon him. He blinked and blinked, realizing he forgot his table manners and just ate like a pig.

    Conan cleared his throat, raising his fist before his lips.

    "Apologies for myck of manners. I''m not usually like this, but it''s been two years since I had a decent meal." Even his tone sounded polite as if he just suddenly turned into a different person. "Thank you for the food."

    "Don''t apologize. I''m d you liked the food." Lilou shed him an understanding smile. "I was worried you will not like it since it''s usually our butler who prepares everything."

    "It was perfect, mydy. You have my gratitude." Conan tilted his head down slightly, only to freeze momentarily. He raised his head once again, eyes dted, staring at the people who had been with him since the beginning of the meal.

    "He''s really slow," mumbled Law whilst shaking his head.

    "Your Majesty!" Conan gasped, setting his shaking eyes on the head seat where Abel was sitting. "Whoбн?"<sub> </sub>

    Abel smiled. "They''re my family, Conan."

    Conan gasped once again, wide-eyed. He scanned the people once again, only to see them looking back at him. Just one look and he figured that the woman who made this meal seemed to be the only normal person in this ce.

    "Huh?" Conan furrowed his brows as his eyes lingered on Lilou. "You''re not a Grimsbanne, are you?"

    "She is," answered Samael who had this bright silver hair. "She''s my wife and those two are my children, apparently."

    "Sam."

    "That''s right. He''s our father, apparently." This time, Law mumbled to himself.

    "Ahhбн" Conan rocked his head, assessing that family of four.

    He slowly raised a finger, pointing at Samael and then at Law before Sunny. His finger shifted to ude, who was just beside him, and the pale woman next to ude. "Ahhбн so you are the Grimsbanne and the rest are married into the family."

    "Quite arge family, isn''t it?" Abel chuckled, only to stop when udemented.

    "I have eighteen uncles. The Grimsbanne is quite smallpared to the La Crox, to be honest."

    "Ameria had twenty children?" Abel cocked his head to the side, aware that ude was a product of incest.

    "Ameria''s husband had other wives." This time, Tilly answered Abel''s question before eating a small bite of biscuit.

    "Hahбн" Annoyance immediately resurfaced on Abel''s face, stretching his neck from one side to another. "So that good-for-nothing took in several wives, huh? I wonder where is his grave?"

    "Don''t worry. Uncle Hell beat the crap out of him." ude grinned, making Abel nce at Samael. Thetter shrugged nonchntly.

    "If you can bring him back from the dead, then do so. I will beat him again," said Samael, unintentionally appeasing Abel''s irritation."

    "Youбн" Abel pointed at Samael. "Good job."

    "Hehe. That''s what he gets for being a piece of shit."

    "Ahem!" Conan cleared his throat to interfere with Samael and Abel''s conversation before they get side-tracked again. "Anyway, since the Grimsbanne are here, that means something very wrong happened in the past two years, right?"

    "Obviously." Samael nodded. "To be honest, just like you, we''re also not updated on what happened in the past two years. We came fresh from a deadly war."

    "What do you mean by that?" Conan furrowed his brows while curiosity also swirled in Abel''s eyes.

    Abel didn''t have any proper conversation with them, and this was the first. Thus, this was news to him.

    "We were inside the Hell''s Gate."

 Chapter 738 Were Going Home

    "We were inside the Hell''s Gate."

    Samael shrugged, jerking his chin towards ude to exin it better.

    "To make it short and simple, the time in Hell''s Gate runs differently from reality. When we luckily got out of it, it''s been two years," exined ude as he recalled what they went through that only felt like it happened overnight. "In that ce, an entire day and night are equal to a year in the real world. That is also the reason we just arrived in this ce just now."

    "So you''re saying, youбн also disappeared from this world for the past two years?"

    "Exactly." ude rocked his head. "We''re surprised that when we asked about the Haimirich Empire, no one seemed to remember it. Good thing Tilly knows where Sunny was, so we just followed her heart."

    Conan knitted his brows as he mulled about it. "In other words, you also don''t have any idea of the maind, huh?"

    "Just because we hadn''t gone there doesn''t mean we know nothing about the maind." Samael snickered. "Who doesn''t know about the Maind? Even if no one is interested, people just keep talking about it that you''d know more than you actually want to."

    Samael then cocked his head in Abel''s direction. "Uncle, I don''t know what are your preferences, but your wife is a real nutcase."

    "Lady Aries?" Conan furrowed his brows.

    "Lady Aries now rules the maind." Isaiah, who had been silent, standing a few steps behind Abel''s chair, spoke. "No one knew how and why Maximus let her be, but that is what''s the current news."

    "Ahhбн" Abel rocked his head with ack of interest, which didn''t surprise anyone.

    "Since the establishment of the Maind, everyone just calls my grandmama Queen. She''s really at the top of the world," Sunny chimed in since she was Isaiah''s intel for the past two years. "She''s also terrifying. Rumors have it that the Queen has no mercy. I heard she even deployed her soldiers to a smallnd, and thatnd disappeared without a trace."

    There was a moment of silence after Sunny''s remarks. Conan lowered his eyes and then snuck a look at Abel. His brows knitted, seeing that Abel doesn''t show the slightest surprise.

    "Your Majesty, howe you''re not reacting?" asked Conan out of pure curiosity. "Do you have any idea about this?"

    "No, but I''ve always known she''s amazing." Abel smiled and shrugged, warranting odd looks from the rest.

    "Now I understand where Uncle Hell got his personality." ude''s face scrunched up in dismay. "Your wife had turned viinous. I don''t know why Mister Fabian is assisting her, but бк"

    "Ah!" Sunny pped. "That''s because Mister Fabian wields Maleficent and my grandmama is Maleficent. So they fell in love at first sight!"

    "Fabian?" Samael''s face contorted. "I don''t think love and Fabian can ever be put in the same sentence."

    "But that''s what he said, right, grandpa?" Sunny set her adorable eyes on Abel, only to see thetter shrug.

    "I don''t care about what that man feels about my wife. He''s not the first to hold such romantic feelings for her. But s, she''s mine."

    "Reallyбн it''s uncanny that I feel like listening to Uncle Hell''s dialogues," mumbled ude, darting his eyes between Samael and Abel.

    "What else can I say? My wife is the best, and I can''t me others to desire the best." Abel and Samael uttered in unison, which made them look at each other in slight surprise.

    "They even speak the same thing now." ude shook his head while the uncle and nephew duo smiled at each other.

    "What happened?" Suddenly, the conversation which was getting side-tracked once again was set straight when Tilly''s tiny voice caressed their ears.

    "Hmm?" Abel raised his brows as he faced his sister.

    "Howe you were trapped, Abel?" Tilly slowly lifted her empty eyes to Abel. "That is unlike you."

    Silence once again descended in the dining hall. All eyes were on Abel. That was right, they thought. For these people, they knew Abel was the person who could help them since Tilly imed he was the strongest Grimsbanne so far. However, it was a mystery to them how he got stuck in Maleficent''s world.

    <strong>It couldn''t be because of love, right?</strong>

    "Wellбн" Abel drew a breath as he gloss his eyes over their faces. "It was true that we prepared for Maximus''s ns. However, it turns out that some people I trusted drew my wife to the corner."

    "Hahбн" Samael leaned back and stretched his arm over Law''s seat. "... so some of your people betrayed you?"

    "No." Abel''s expression grew solemn, fixing his eyes back on Tilly.

    Tilly didn''t hold his gaze that long as she picked up another biscuit to take a bite. However, she paused upon hearing Abel''s next remarks.

    "It was a family who did." Abel waited for Tilly to set her eyes back on him. "Marse. It was Marse, Mathilda. The person who caused Ameria''s sufferings, the person who handed that spear to that man named Fabian, and also the person who drove my wife to the corner."

    What Abel confessed threw everyone in ake of question marks. Especially Samael was the son of Ameria Grimsbanne, and Rufus, Fabian''s brother. They''re puzzled at different things, though.

    Tilly blinked ever so slowly, lowering her eyes to her food. "I see."

    "I am saying this to you now because I cannot guarantee I''d be able to show her mercy," remarked Abel solemnly and firmly. "I''ve been lenient enough. Next time, I''ll have her head."

    "No," Tilly replied under her breath, lifting her eyes to Samael and then to everyone before settling her gaze on her brother. "I promised Ameria to be the judge once the timees. I reckoned this is the time for that."

    "Be my guest." Abel nodded, shrugging. "Since that had been sorted out..."

    He slowly raised his chin and faced the rest that fill this table.

    "... prepare to set sail. We''re going home. Back. To. Hell."

 Chapter 739 What A Stunning Fiancee I Have

    <strong>[ MAINLAND ]</strong>

    "The crown prince from thend of Zel had arrived in the royal pce."

    Aries paused from putting her earring, raising her eyes at the woman''s reflection in the mirror. There, standing several feet from Aries''s chair бк that was in front of the vanity mirror бк was Suzanne.

    Yes. Suzanne.

    Suzanne had died that night in the Haimirich Empire, but thanks to Aries''s newly acquired powers and Maximus''s assistance, she was able to bring her back to life. Although the cost of bringing back the dead was high, Aries didn''t hesitate.

    "Gustav will wee them and usher them to their lodging." Aries snapped her eyes ever so tenderly, resuming locking the earring. "There''s no need to report who arrived one by one, Suzanne."

    "The prince of Zel is requesting a private audience with you."

    "Everyone wants a private audience with me." Aries let out a dry snicker, picking up the other pair of earrings to put in her other ear. "I''m busy."

    Suzanne pressed her lips into a thin line and lowered her head. "Very well. I will tell them to rest until the start of the summit two days from now."

    "Mhm."

    "Do you need my help, Your Majesty?" asked Suzanne as she straightened her back, watching Aries put on her ne.

    Aries didn''t respond immediately, pausing, and turning around to face Suzanne.

    "I am alright." Her lips curled up into a subtle smile. "Everyone is busy since we are hosting a summit. The least I can do is not to burden my people even more."

    "Assisting you is an honor, not a burden, Your Majesty."

    "I appreciate that." Aries rocked her head. "But there''s no need. I enjoy the little things in this life that I can do all on my own."

    "If that is what Her Majesty wishes, then there''s nothing I can do."

    "Don''t be disheartened, Suzanne." Aries faced the mirror once again, keeping her gaze on Suzanne''s face. Her eyes fell on the high-cor dress Suzanne was wearing that covered her entire neck. "Those wounds hadn''t healedpletely."

    "Your kindness had healed all the inner wounds. Those were the most important to me." Suzanne lowered her eyes, pertaining to the fact Aries had sacrificed a lot just to bring her back. The wounds that killed Suzanne that night might''ve not healed yet, but having a second chance to serve her queen mended all the regrets in her heart.

    "You never fail to make my heart flutter. Even my husband-to-be couldn''t make my heart skip a beat." Aries chuckled, setting her eyes on her reflection. She cupped her cheek, eyes drooping until they were partially closed. "Before you go, send people to clean that mansion in the Forbidden Forest."

    "Your Majesty?"

    "That mansion in that forest. The one that looks exactly like the Forbidden Mansion in Haimirich," Aries stressed, gazing back at Suzanne. "Send people to clean it spotless."

    Deep lines appeared between Suzanne''s brows. It had been two years since they migrated to the maind with Aries as the Queen. Obviously, being the Queen and the Queen''sdy-in-waiting, they studied almost everything. Therefore, they were aware of the existence of that mansion in the forbidden forest.

    ording to the records, that mansion was where the Grimsbanne lived before. The reason the forest that surrounded the mansion was considered a Forbidden Forest -- where one couldn''t just cross thoughtlessly -- was that it was dangerous. They said not everyone who went there returned.

    Even until now, no one touched the forbidden forest even though the Grimsbanne wasn''t on the maind anymore. They tried, but it was still dangerous and wasn''t Aries''s priority.

    That was why Suzanne was puzzled by the Queen''s sudden order.

    "We''ll be expecting some interesting guests." Aries chuckled, noticing the apparent confusion stered on Suzanne''s face. "With all the current guests the royal pce is amodating, I don''t think we can wee more."

    "Additional guestsбн?" Suzanne mulled about Aries''s remarks, counting the guests that hadn''t and expecting to arrive on the maind. There were only a few and since they had prepared for the summit since the establishment of the maind two years ago, she was certain they could amodate all the guests.

    The side of Aries''s lips curled up but didn''t give Suzanne some enlightenment. She drew a breath, about to reach for her perfume, before hearing the subtle knocks on the door.

    <strong>Knock Knockбн</strong>

    Suzanne snapped out of her thoughts as she looked back at the door, waiting for someone to announce their identity. However, the knocks stopped at three before silence followed.

    "I will be on my way, Your Majesty," said Suzanne as she looked back at Aries''s back. She then lowered her head slightly, turned on her heel, and sauntered off.

    When Suzanne opened the door, she paused. Her eyes lifted to the person standing outside, only to see a towering man with a stature of no less than six feet tall. The other half of his tinum hair was tied while the rest was let down.

    Maximus still looked as sickly and pale, but the luster in his eyes and that smirk stered on his face didn''t allow pity from another.

    "Greetings, Your Highness." Ayer of frost coated Suzanne''s eyes as she beckoned a neck bow.

    "Lady Suzanne, I always wonder howe you are getting colder every time I see you even after your resurrection?" Maximus mused with a short chuckle. "We are allies now, and yet, you couldn''t offer me a smile."

    "Her Majesty is inside, Your Highness. She was expecting you." Suzanne''s expression turned even colder as she raised her head to face Maximus. "I''ll be on my way."

    Maximus shook his head and shrugged. "I can''t force you to like me, can I?" he humored, taking a step to the side whilst moving his arm as a gesture to make way for her.

    "You should be thankful you are her precious handmaiden. That re is annoying," he added as he held Suzanne''s sharp gaze.

    "I will be forever grateful to my queen. Only to her." She smirked, almost like taunting him. "I''ll excuse myself first."

    Suzanne didn''t idle as she turned on her heel, walking away with her chin held high. Meanwhile, Maximus kept his attention on Suzanne''s back before he smirk.

    "What a rude woman," hemented before taking a step into the queen''s chambers. "My dearest Queen, I suggest disciplining your people. They were bing more and more brazenбн"

    Maximus trailed off as soon as his steps halted, gazing at the elegant woman rising from her chair and then facing him.

    "What a stunning fiancee I have!"

 Chapter 740 I Just Dont Like You

    "What a stunning fiancee I have!"

    Maximus''s eyes went up and down, studying Aries''s figure wrapped around a beautiful red dress. Herced sleeves exposed her elegant corbone that reached down to her elbow. With her hair tied up beautifully, her gorgeous face and slender neck appeared more eye-catchy.

    "Gorgeous." He marched to her with his arms spread wide, stopping two steps from her. "Please, allow me to greet such a lovely woman properly."

    Aries chuckled and rolled her eyes, watching him dramatically motion his arms and his handnding across his chest and the other on his back. Maximus bent over slightly beforeying his palm open, eyes on her.

    "May I?" his lips curled up, making her smirk back as she sped his hand. "Thousands of years has it been since I came into existence, but only recently have I found myself stunned to silence with such beauty. I''d say a thousand years was worth living since I was blessed to meet you."

    "What a grandiloquent tongue."

    Maximus chuckled as he nted his lips on her knuckles, covered withce gloves.

    "I am simply speaking the truth, my love." He straightened his back, not letting her hand go as he took a step forward to guide her hand on his arm. "Shall we?"

    "If not, what else are we doing here?"

    "I can stay in here with you."

    Aries cast him a sidelong nce.

    "No, thank you," she refused politely. "There''s no way I''d stay in here with you."

    "You are making my heart ache," he humored, taking a step forth as they leave the queen''s quarters. "Just what else can I do to get your trust and love? I made you the queen just as you wished, handed you the power you desire, and even betrayed Marse."

    Aries couldn''t help but chuckle with her lips stretched from ear to ear until her teeth were showing. She trod carefully, watching each step as they sauntered through the elegant baroque hallway.

    "Surely, you are growing humorous with each passing day." A deep exhale slipped past her lips, cocking her head back, eyes falling on the man walking beside her. "You hold the answer to that, my dear."

    Aries peeled her eyes away from him and set them ahead, contempt glinting in her sharp eyes. "Until the day youpletely trust me, I might reconsider."

    "So, never?"

    "Now you''re hurting my feelings." She cast him a quick look, smirking.

    "Only fools will trust such a scheming person."

    "I thought we were almost there, but s, I guess it''s just me."

    "I highly doubt we were even halfway."

    Aries let out a short snicker. "Just what kind of marriage am I expecting?"

    "Something different, for sure."

    "No." Aries paused, looking at him squarely. "I got married multiple times and I''m telling you, my dear, this one is no different from the first one I had."

    "Ohhбн" Maximus whistled with a shortugh. "I''m looking forward to my demise, then."

    "Don''t." They resumed their steps, listening to their soft footsteps that ovepped with each other. "If I were you, pray it won''te."

    His eyes slid to the corner as his gaze fell on her. "I don''t pray. I make it happenбн just like how I made it happen that night two years ago."

    Silence followed his remarks as neither of them spoke after Maximus'' remarks. Bringing up that night two years ago, his confidence rose to another level while ayer of frost covered Aries''s eyes.

    "That night, you and my dearest friend surely did a lot of nning and executed it well," Maximus broke the silence when they were near the pavilion that was surrounded bymps on each pir and flowers; the candlelight setup in the pavilion came in sight.

    "If I even cked for a second, I will be in trouble. Good thing I had been watching and studying you, particrly. I stillmend you, though. You sabotaged some of my ns." He paused as they stood steps from the table, retrieving his arm from her as he sauntered behind the chair. He dragged it back and cast her a look, gesturing her to take a seat.

    "I am still stuck in this weak body and I feel terrible whenever I look in the mirror," he continued. "Please. Take a seat, my fiancee."

    Aries smiled subtly, walking toward him. As she sat down, Maximus pushed the door carefully. He then jogged around the table, taking a sit on the chair across from her.

    "I''m just concerned, dear." Aries reached for the white cloth and ced it on herp. "It would be strange flirting with you if you are wearing Conan''s face. He was like a brother to me."

    "Making you ufortable will be a marvelous sight to behold."

    "Seeing you still hung up on that is what a marvelous sight to behold," she returned with a smirk, holding his taunting gaze. "I am thrilled to see you every single day wearing that face. It makes my blood boil with excitement, knowing you are still stuck in that sickly body. I can''t help but wonder, what should I sabotage next?"

    Maximus'' smile remained, despite all the words she spewed. Without looking away, he rang the bell to call for the servants to serve them their food. As if on cue, multiple servants came forth, holding tes with golden cloche covering the dishes.

    As the servants started filling the table that had a candbra in the middle, Aries and Maximus kept their gaze on each other. Even when the servants left, standing on the corner while the rest were outside the pavilion, Aries and Maximus kept their gaze on each other wordlessly.

    "No wonder your first husband found satisfaction in beating you." Maximus let out a dryugh. "You have a knack for pressing people''s nerves."

    "It''s not a talent, my fiance." Aries slowly reached for the winess and guided it to her lips, swirling it to sniff its aroma. "I just don''t like you."

 Chapter 741 Dinner

    It was no secret that the Queen and her husband-to-be had a strange rtionship. Aries and Maximus had activities that were for lovers, such as tonight''s romantic dinner in the pavilion. At least a couple of times a week, Maximus would arrange dinner or tea time to spend with her. However, those who were serving them бк although they feigned deaf and mute and even blind бк were aware that no matter how loving the two had appeared, their conversation wasn''t anything close to that.

    Aries and Maximus never failed to press each other''s nerves. There were also times they just wouldn''t speak to each other at all. Mostly, it would be Aries who wouldn''t speak a word. And those times, that meant Maximus touched something that didn''t please her.

    Strange, indeed, but then again, the two didn''t go through the concept of courtship. They just arrived in here with Maximus abdicating the throne and making Aries the queen, giving her full control of the maind.

    "It''s not a talent, my fiance. I just don''t like you."

    "Pftt бк!" Maximus snorted before he burst out inughter, holding his stomach.

    "Myбн surely, it''s always fun to tease you." He wiped the corner of his eyes with the side of his index. "There''s never a dull conversation with my beloved queen."

    The side of Aries''s lips curled up, which resembled a smirk. "The wedding arrangements will be over soon. I''m definitely not looking forward to it."

    "Come on, darling. Why do you always make it sound like I forced you into this marriage?"

    "Didn''t you?"

    "As far as I remember, I didn''t." His lips stretched until his teeth were showing, motioning his hand over the table. "Let''s dig in. The food with turn cold if we keep humoring each other."

    "I don''t remember ever having an appetite to dine with my fiance, but I''m only human."

    He smirked. "The best human there is."

    ? "tteries will not save you." As soon as Aries picked up the cutleries, a servant came to her side to remove the cloche. "I''m certain you are aware of the current news. How strange that you had been going around in a circle before you go straight to the point."

    Maximus chuckled as he also picked up his cutlery while a servant took away the cloche covering his meal.

    "I''m not going around in a circle. I just don''t see the point of even wasting the slightest energy on your former husband." He cast her a quick, knowing look. "Don''t tell me you are still hopeful. Do you think he will let it slide that you forced him into a slumber for years?"

    Maximus lowered his eyes as he started slicing through his steak. "I don''t think he will ept the reasoning that you are simply trying to protect Haimirich. It sounds heroic that the empress chose to trap everyone''s soul to bring them all to life lest the worst happen and married her worst enemy."

    "What''s the other reason again?" His fork, which had a piece of meat, hovered before his lips as he hummed a tune. "Right. That''s because in everynd you ruled, you''re like a gue that brings it to ruin. Hopeful, are we?"

    He shoved the piece of meat inside his mouth, smirking. Meanwhile, Aries chewed hers slowly while holding his mocking gaze.

    "Two yearsбн" Aries reached for the ss of wine to wash down the meat in her throat. She licked her lips, putting the ss back on the table. "бн of being with an insufferable manбн I learned that you and I truly are a match."

    "Heh. Are we?"

    "You cannot stand that I stood beside Abel. His smile, those loving eyes, and his attentionбн it''s really something that makes one envious. Poor Abel." She lifted her eyes up to him, fluttering her eyshes coquettishly. "If you cannot keep him, you''d rather take everything he has and drive him to the corner. The only thing I took from him was his soul and forced him to sleep, but youбн you took more than that, Maximus."

    Aries paused and leaned forward, propping her arms against the edge of the table. "Between the two of us, Maximus, who do you think he wille at first? Me? The woman he loved, married, and trusted? Or you? Who came out of nowhere to steal everything he has?"

    "Even if I sit daintily on my bloody throne, I will be safe for the time being. How about you?" she cocked her head to the side. "Can you take on the entire Grimsbanne n without my help?"

    "We are on the same boat. It is not like you have a choice."

    "I always have a choice, my dearest fiance. I just chose to be with you two years ago, knowing I cannot control my witch if I came face to face with Wrath or any of those demon seeds." Her eyes glinted as the corner of her lips curled up into a mocking smirk. "Maleficent is born to take every single one of them, and you used that to bargain with me. However, are you sure that''s the reason I agreed with this setup?"

    Maximus'' smile slowly faded, assessing that deceiving confidence stered on her face. At this point, he learned that this woman knew how to bluff people and no one could tell what was in her mind if they just studied her expression.

    "I told myself I''ll spare you thirty minutes of my day, and it''s already a minute past that." Aries grabbed the cloth on herp, cing it on the table beside her te.

    She barely took a bite of the meal he prepared and was already considerate of that. She pushed herself up slowly, raising her chin, eyes down at him.

    "Thank you for the meal, my dearest." Aries smiled, sauntering away from her chair, and approached him. Her fingernails caressed the edge of the table and his arm as she stood behind his chair.

    nting her hands on his shoulder, she bent over to whisper in his ear. "The next time you call me darling, I might forget about our alliance. I have no one to protect anymore. You do not want me flipping before you get a proper body."

 Chapter 742 To Whom It May Concern

    "The next time you call me darling, I might forget about our alliance. Do not forget, I have no one to protect anymore. You do not want me retaliating before you get a new proper body."

    Aries''s eyes slid to the corner, smirking. Aries straightened her back and squeezed Maximus''s shoulder mildly, catching a figure from the corner of her eyes.

    "It seems you have a letter. That''s quick." Aries slowly peeled her hands off his shoulder, sauntering away from the pavilion without looking back.

    Some servants outside the pavilion approached her to assist her in taking the steps down. The moment she reached thest step, Aries cast the butler a look. Thetter bowed, holding a small tray where a letter was on it.

    "Heh," Aries smirked, turning her heel as she walked away with a few servants from the queen''s quarters following her. "Where is Fabian? I''m in the mood to y."

    As Aries leave the pavilion, Maximus''s face was already sour and firm. He nced in her direction, only to see her happily walking with the servants behind her. He kept his gaze on her figure even when the butler was standing near the table with a tray where a letter for Maximus was ced.

    "Your Highness, a letter from the Haimirich Empire is delivered tonight," announced the butler politely, but Maximus kept his eyes in the direction where Aries left.

    Aries was already out of sight, but Maximus kept his gaze in there.

    "Truly a shame how she and that friend of mine are almost the same. They don''t listen." Maximus peeled his eyes away from the garden path to the butler. "He was quick to send a letter. I wonder what he wants to say and sent in a hurry."

    The butler carefully put down the tray for Maximus to open it.

    "He must be angry. What sort of threat did he right?" The smile on his face was candid, excitement in his eyes. Maximus picked up the paper knife and opened the letter that had the emperor of the Haimirich Empire.

    Maximus knew Abel, and he was expecting something short and simple. Something that would make the receiver feel they were not safe. Yet, just the thought of it excites him.

    "Let''s seeбн" His brows rose the moment he opened the letter, blinking, cocking his head to the side. Maximus lifted the letter until the light from the candbra was illuminating the back of the paper, but there was no hidden message on it.

    "If someone you trapped sent you a letter, what would be the usual message?" he asked the butler standing a few steps from the table.

    "He would send him warnings that he would do to the person who wronged him."

    "Right?" Maximus nced at the butler and showed him the paper. "Normally, they would send a short letter. Considering the person was him, it wasn''t strange for him if he didn''t send a letter at all. However, not only he did send a letter, but it was nk."

    The butler briefly nced at the clean paper before he bowed.

    "Apologies. This servant couldn''t understand the message behind his action."

    "Hmmбн" Maximus propped his arm against the armrest, sitting leisurely with his hand holding the empty letter in front of him. "Surely, he never failed to give me something to mull about."

    **************

    [ HAIMIRICH EMPIRE ]

    A few hours before the letter was sentбн

    "This is a terrible idea." Samael leaned his back against the jamb of the door; his arms folded underneath his chest, eyes inside the emperor''s chancery. There, inside, were Abel and Tilly.

    Abel dragged his sister to his office to do him some favor, and Samael was there because Tilly asked for help. Now, Abel sat his sister down behind the desk and prepared her a piece of paper and ink.

    "Samael, my dearest nephew, I never had a terrible idea in my life," Abel smirked, holding Tilly''s shoulder as he stood behind her chair. "Now, Tilly, write whatever I say, alright."

    Tilly kept a straight face, barely holding the pen Abel forced in her hand. She nced at Abel as thetter started walking around the desk, rubbing his fingers on his chin.

    "To an old friend, I hold dearly in my heart," said Abel, narrowing his eyes as if recalling something. It''s been a long time since Ist saw you бк two years is quite a long time бк but you never left my mind for two years. I would constantly wonder how have you been; was the world out there treating you well?

    At times like that, I would recall the time I gave you the chance to breathe and exist until now. Perhaps, I regret not stabbing one of your eyes and making you swallow it.

    Strange, isn''t it, my old friend?

    My wife had been wary of you even before meeting you, but in the end, you took her from me. My heart aches at the thoughtбн"

    Abel dramatically ced his hand across his chest, standing in front of the window without casting his sister a nce.

    "How cruel, but I had forgiven her. She''s my wife, after all. I had epted how naughty she was. It is the same with you, my friend. I had forgiven you for what you have done. However, I figured you do not n on meeting me. Therefore, I decided to see you myself.

    I hope you are just as ted as I am with the thought of seeing you again. Before ending this letter written by my sister, I can guarantee you this letter will go straight to you. I do not want a piece of paper would reach her first before me.

    Your beloved friend,

    Abel."

    Abel grinned and turned to face Tilly''s direction. "Did you get all that?"

    "Yes." Tilly nodded, folding the paper quietly.

    Meanwhile, Samael shook his head in dismay. While Abel was talking nonstop, Tilly didn''t move a muscle and simply gazed at the paper.

    "She didn''t write a word," said Samael, watching Abel approach the desk while Tilly handed the folded paper. "Speaking more than ten words is already a miracle, let alone writing all your sentiments."

    Abel opened the folded letter and smirked. "Perfect."

    "Huh?" Samael scrunched his nose up, watching Abel cast him a knowing look. But thetter wasn''t generous enough to give enlightenment, folding the paper, before cing it inside an envelope where he poured wax where he pressed his seat on it.

    "If you want to send an empty letter, you shouldn''t have dragged her. And I would be with my wife and children at this second." Samael shook his head, watching his uncle open the window where a crow appeared out of nowhere.

    "I want this letter to arrive tonight," said Abel putting the letter inside the crow''s beak. "No dy."

    Abel smirked, letting the bird fly away to deliver an empty paper.

    "Let him rack his head thinking about the meaning behind it," he murmured, knowing a simple empty letter was enough to keep Maximus busy for the time being.

 Chapter 743 Everyone Was A Foe

    "You''ve been standing there since hours ago."

    Aries stopped several steps from the man standing in the vast expanse of the queen''s courtyard. Her eyes studied his back, sighing as he didn''t move a muscle.

    "If being a statue is what you aspired to be, you could''ve told me," she said as she advanced in his direction, stopping beside him. "For how long will you stare in that direction?"

    Fabian kept his eyes in the same direction that he had been staring at for hours. "You ordered people to step into that mansion."

    "I did. It''s only courteous to wee them with a proper lodging."

    "Lady Tilly will not appreciate that, my queen." Fabian slowly faced her, his usual smile was nowhere in sight. "Allow me to prepare their home for them."

    Aries scanned his face before she shrugged. "If that will make you happy. You know I don''t want to disappoint you."

    "I appreciate that." Fabian peeled his eyes from her, only to set them in a particr darkness ahead. "I need to do something so I would get into less trouble in a few days."

    "How strange that you be nervous at the thought of your previous master." Aries let out a short chuckle, shaking her head mildly. "How was Marse?"

    "She..." he trailed off, cocking his head back to ponder. "... the same."

    "Maximus had been searching for her. Keep moving her. If she escaped, it''ll be hard for us to proceed as nned."

    "Don''t worry about that, my queen. With two souls inside that body, Marse wouldn''t be able to act properly on her own." Confidence dominated Fabian''s countenance at the thought of Marse''s well-being. "I, as well, wouldn''t want more dys."

    "It had been two years, after all. My patience is running thin as well." Aries rocked her head, thinking two years was too long for her. "We''ll get rid of them soon."

    She paused, turning on her heel to face him. She didn''t speak until he quirked a brow, facing her, only to see her smile.

    "Maximus, Javier, those aristocrats, and the Grimsbannes." Aries closed in, snaking her arms around his waist. "We''ll get rid of them soon, love. And peace wille for the both of us."

    Aries locked her hands on his back, smiling coquettishly at him. Fabian studied her stunning face, raising his hand to cup her jaw.

    "Just tell me when, I''m prepared anytime." Her lips stretched from ear to ear at his response, watching him in silence as he lowered his head. Fabian tilted his head to the side while she narrowed her eyes until they were partially closed.

    Half an inch before their lips met, Fabian paused while Aries''s eyes sharpened.

    "Abel sent Maximus a letter. It will keep him busy in the meantime," she muttered through her gritted teeth. "Make sure the Grimsbanne will step foot in thisnd without a problem and with no one noticing. Maximus will kill them."

    The side of Fabian''s lips curled up into a smirk until his eyes were squinting. He nudged the tip of his nose against hers before drawing his head back. His hand on her cheek remained, brushing her cheek with his thumb.

    "What do I do with my queen?" he spoke out of nowhere. "Your wedding ising up, and yet, my heart gets swayed despite how displeased I was being just a lover."

    "Stop it." Aries brushed his hand from her cheek, rolling her eyes. "The royal pce has a lot of guests. I don''t want them to think that the queen indulges in debauchery."

    "Will their opinion matter?" Fabian smirked, taking her hand gently. "No one''s around. Come. I''ll show you something."

    Aries let out a shallow breath as he dragged her back to the queen''s quarters. The two of them looked like young lovers, about to sneak in to do what lovers do. At least, that was what it looked like to the person hiding in the shadow not far away.

    "Nothing suspicious," whispered the person hiding in the shadow, keeping his eyes on the queen and her lover''s figures. "However, it seems that they were moving Marse from ce to ce and they were nning something. Though their n wasn''t disclosed."

    The person in the shadow paused as if listening to the voices in his head. He nodded after a second, taking a step back, and just like a shadow, he became one with the darkness.

    ********

    Meanwhile, in one of the morous estates in the heart of the maind, several people were sitting at a round table. With several candles on the table, everyone''s eyes were on the crystal ball in the middle. In that crystal ball, they could see Fabian leading Aries inside the queen''s quarters.

    Aries''s smile was like no other; she would be with everyone and sport the same fake smile. Hence, getting used to that smile of hers, they could see the difference when she was with that butler, Fabian. They said it was because both of them were wielders of Maleficent, Aries and Fabian had an instant link and attraction for each other.

    It wasn''t impossible nor was it surprising.

    "Maximus, Javier, those aristocrats, and the Grimsbannes," someone around the table repeated what they had heard from Aries. "I think she will start moving during the summit. Before she targets us, it''ll be better if we get her on our side to take down Maximus, that thief Javier, and those troublemakers of the Grimsbannes."

    "That is impossible."

    "The Queen isn''t someone who will work with her previous enemies."

    "Are you saying we have to dispose of her before she makes her move?"

    "Maleficent is the only person who can take down the Grimsbanne. Maximus isn''t someone we want to deal with after what he did that night two years ago," another one chimed in.

    All eyes slowly shifted to thest person who spoke. Thest member of this council on the maind was a young woman with clouded eyes that indicated her blindness.

    "Let''s just proceed as nned," she continued, sensing everyone''s gaze on her. "The Queen had been looking for her people. We''ll use them as leverage. Those witches wouldn''t work with us, anyway. We might as well use them to our advantage."

    The people surrounding the round table looked at each other before they nodded in agreement. It seemed they had no choice but to work with each other without anyone''s help this time.

    Surely, the maind was filled with not just powerful vampires and witches, but also scheming and dangerous types. Everyone was a foe, and that was what Aries learned that night two years ago.

    <strong>***NOTE: </strong>

    I just moved to another ce and am still a bit busy with all the stuff. Will get used to the new ce and current setup after resting a bit.

 Chapter 744 Chains

    Aries snapped her eyes ever so tenderly. Her gaze fell on the hand that Fabian was holding as he led her to the farthest wing of the queen''s quarters. She lifted her eyes to look at his back.

    "They''re done." Her smile faded, making him stop in his tracks. "You can let me go now."

    Fabian released her hand and turned around to face her. His lips were still curled up into a smile that reached his squinting eyes.

    "Why are you taking me here?" she asked, folding her arms under her chest. "I don''t like that look on your face, Fabian."

    "I always have this look."

    Aries shrugged, giving him the hint she totally didn''t like that wicked smile cemented on his face. Although he was always smiling with his eyes, she could tell that his smile this time spoke something else.

    "You will not know if you don''t follow me." Fabian cocked his head to the side. The sweetness they disyed moments ago was nowhere in sight as if it was just one''s figment of imagination.

    "I think I already know, Fabian." Her expression turned even colder. "Where is she?"

    His smile stretched, tipping his head to the hallway ahead. A deep breath escaped her nostrils, shaking her head, before taking a step forward. This time, Aries walked past Fabian, making thetter smirk as he nced over his shoulder.

    Aries sauntered through the hallway leading to the far west wing of the queen''s pce. This had been her dwelling for the past two years. Therefore, she knew all the corners of the ce she had been living. There was only one particr room she could think of where Fabian was taking her previously.

    Soon, Aries stood in front of therge wall about ten feet wide in between two doors. She nced to her right, only to see Fabian standing a few steps from her. She didn''t say anything as she faced the wall once again, nting her palm on it.

    An invisible barrier slowly surrounded her proximity while the wall slowly revealed a thick metal door. When the door came to full sight, Aries peeled her palm from it and reached for the lock, barely grazing it, yet it automatically opened for her.

    Aries didn''t idle as she pushed the door open, making the door creak heavily. But the sound didn''t prate the barrier surrounding the area.

    "Hahбн" Just as the door opened wide, her eyes fell on the person inside this dungeon-like prison.

    There, just right across the door, was arge cage where a person caged and chained was held. Thetter raised her head and chuckled the moment her eyes held Aries''s.

    "Ram, you''re here?" Marse called in relief, watching Aries cross the threshold and stop a few feet in front of the cage. Her eyes nced at the other person behind Aries, but she didn''t pay attention to Fabian as she set her eyes back on the queen.

    "Ram, it''s me! I''m back!" The chains around Marse''s wrist ng as she patted her chest. "Let me go now, hmm? Marse is gone. I will correct everything that damn woman had done to you and to Abel."

    Aries assessed Marse silently. Despite that Marse''s hair was disheveled and her clothes looked dirty with some blood on them, she couldn''t deny how pretty her sister-inw was. Marse''s light tinum hair turned lighter, almost looking like white.

    "Are you sure?" asked Aries, tilting her head to the side.

    "Yes!" Marse nodded profusely, crawling forward, only to stop because of the chains around her wrists and ankles. "It''s really me, Ram."

    Aries slowly squatted down to look at her at eye level. "Who are you, again?"

    "Your Master!" Marse''s answer was quick, wide-eyed. Seeing Aries blink as if waiting for something else, Marse cleared her throat. "It''s бк it''s бк goddamn you!"

    Aries closed one of her eyes at the piercing shriek Marse suddenly unleashed with the chains nging aggressively. Marse tried to reach the bars of the cage, but her fingertips could barely graze it.

    "Maleficent бк Aries!!" Marse''s voice shook, grinding her teeth and fangs furiously. "I will kill you бк you and you Fabian! That Maximus as well! I swear in my name and blood I will suck the life out of you people бк LET ME OUT!"

    Marse went on and on, screaming her lungs out, almost losing her mind. One thing that this woman loathed the most was being restrained. The reason she was so determined to kick the witch in this same body was that Vera бк the other soul inside Marse''s body бк could restrain Marse in her own body.

    "Marse, if only you can lie better." Aries shook her head, watching Marse tire herself out by screaming and pulling the chains aggressively. "All you need to do is lie, and maybe I will reconsider."

    The thing with Marse was that she might be powerful and crazy and dangerous to everyone, but she had an unbreakable pride. Everything Marse does, she took pride in it no matter how vile it was. There was no way Marse would call herself by another name.

    It was the same for Abel.

    Abel had always kept his name. Although he added names as the emperor of the Haimirich Empire and even changed his surname, people still know him as Abel. Even when Abel was in a disguise, he would simply scramble his name to make a new one like when they were back in the Maganti Empire and he went by the name Baron Albe.

    "Marse, the reason I was in here is because of you. While I am chainedбн no, even if I can get these chains off of me, I will never let you out." A thickyer of frost coated Aries''s eyes with deep fury burning within them. "Youбн and Maximusбн the ns you concocted many years agoбн I will destroy the root before ending your vile existence."

    Her voice shook slightly with a tinge of anger, keeping her gaze on Marse. As Aries spoke her sentiments through her gritted teeth, arge and thick metal band appeared from Aries''s wrists. The chains that were attached to it were connected to the metals around her ankles with a huge metal ball, which then extended to Fabian''s ankles.

    No one could see the chains that connected the two aside from them. However, both Aries and Fabian always carried this weight since two years ago, and every day, the weight of these chains grew heavier and more crippling.

 Chapter 745 The Night Two Years Ago

    <strong>How far will you go in the name of love?</strong>

    <strong>[ TWO YEARS AGO ]</strong>

    "Seize them," Aries ordered Fabian. "All of them."

    Just as those words rolled out of her tongue and heard his immediate response to her order, a loud explosion erupted from the banquet hall. Aries turned her head in the banquet hall''s direction, and her pupils instantly dted.

    Her heart suddenly thudded in her chest, and her glowing eyes slowly dimmed until her green eyes came into sight. That explosion unexpectedly snapped her back to her senses, breath hitching.

    "Abel!" she breathed out in panic, but before she could react, Fabian tackled her to the side.

    <strong>Boogsh!</strong>

    Aries''s eyes shook, gazing at therge hole from where she originally stood. If not for Fabian, Maximus'' attack would''ve disintegrated her.

    "Seize all of us?" Maximus smirked. His palm was open, facing heavenward, ying with a dark shroud over it. "Maleficent, don''t be so cocky. You had just awakened your witch. Do you expect you can face us head-on? Even if let''s say that butler will be a great help, it won''t work, my dearest."

    "Want to test it?" he added and, without further ado, Maximus tossed the dark shroud in their direction.

    With the sudden realization and confusion, Aries was suddenly going through, hearing these voices chanting in her head. All she could do was stare at the dark shroudsing in her direction at full speed. Aries couldn''t even blink, anticipating whatever those balls of darkness would give her.

    SHING!

    Aries breathed out heavily, barely catching a glint as Fabian swung his spear to repel the ball of darkness. It only took a few seconds for those balls of darkness to detonate after having contact with the dark spear.

    "Get yourself together, Maleficent." Her shoulders tensed up, lifting her shaking eyes to Fabian.

    "Where is she?" he asked, and Aries shook her head.

    "She''s just here," she said in a panic, clutching his chest. "You, what did I do?"

    Fabian''s jaw tightened, but before he could even answer her, Maximusunched another attack. Hence, he had to carry Aries by the waist to dodge all these explosive attacks. He carried her as if she weighed nothing while Aries held on to his as if her life depended on it.

    Just moments ago, when Aries awakened, Fabian felt like he was bound by a spell. Both of them were. Their actions, their words, and even their train of thoughts that were simply twisted weren''t theirs. They were aware of that, but s, for a moment, they felt like those feelings were theirs.

    Only when Aries was able to snap out of her trance did Fabian regain his self-control. It was as if whatever Aries was going through affected him in one way or another. Thus, he needed her to get herself together, for he was unwillingly affected if she sumbed to the witch wreaking havoc inside her.

    With the increasing attacks from Maximus, Fabian had to flee with Aries. He couldn''t fight, knowing Aries could lose control and affect him. This wasn''t their n. This wasn''t his n.

    "You." Aries tugged his clothes as soon as they reached the pce far away from where Maximus was at. "Abel is in danger!"

    His eyes med up. "This is not the time for that."

    "There''s no right time for anything!" Aries spat back through her gritted teeth. "If something happened to him, you and I... I will destroy the both of us!"

    Fabian gripped her shoulder tightly, almost crushing her bone. However, Aries didn''t let the pain sway her or change her mind.

    "Right now, my husband is in great danger. I need to wake him up." Aries swallowed a mouthful as helplessness swirled in her eyes. "I cannot control these powers yet."

    "Waking him up will kill you."

    "I know!" Her grip on his clothes tightened. "He might kill me with the current state I am in, but I don''t care. Marse is with him and we''re wasting our time right now. Take me to him."

    "Please, Fabian. Save my husband," she added under her breath.

    Fabian clenched his teeth and sped his fist tightly. After a second, he loosened his grip and let out a deep exhale.

    "That might help you calm down," he murmured, and without a moment''s notice, he circled his arm around her as if she was a doll. Fleeing at full speed, Fabian thrust his spear toward the window and jumped right through it.

    Before they couldnd on the ground, the room where they were just now exploded. Concretes and dust flew down with them.

    Seeing this, her eyes went wide. Aries could see the debrising closer to them before she felt himnd, squatting down for a split second before hopping away to avoid the debris. Fabian didn''t stop, skipping steps, sprinting like a bolt of lightning, making a detour to the banquet hall.

    Since he was carrying her by the waist with her arms around his neck, Aries could see their trails. Maximus never stoppedunching attacks, making her shut her eyes when she felt like they would hit them. Thankfully, Fabian was not only agile but also sharp for avoiding all these attacks without looking back.

    "Isaiah took Sunny away," she spoke out of nowhere, feeling his heart thud against her chest. Just like how he could feel her inner turmoil, she could feel his worries as if they had a link. "Isaiah tried to reach me before, but Maleficent blocked him. Sunny will be safe, so you don''t have to worry."

    Fabian kept his eyes ahead. "I appreciate that," was all he said, keeping his eyes on the particr building where Abel was at.

    "I would be in trouble if something happened to her," he added, a little relieved that Aries left Sunny in Isaiah''s care. At least there was another capable person protecting Sunny while they were settling their mess.

    "Please make it quick." Aries turned her head to look at his side profile. "I can hear Marse''s footstepsing closer to him."

    "Almost," he returned, picking up his pace as the banquet hall came closer and closer. "Hang in there."

    Aries looked back, gripping his shoulder tightly. For some reason, even when they were close to their destination, she couldn''t feel the slightest relief. Aries would only know the reason for that as soon as they reach the banquet hall.

 Chapter 746 The Night Two Years Ago II

    Aries had a n, and that was to trap Maximus in Maleficent''s world. For her ns to happen, she needed to make them appear as realistic as possible. Hence, Abel, together with almost everyone, entered that spirit world and entrusted their lives to her.

    ? They knew the risk бк every single one of them was aware of it. But they still did. The witches and the night council deemed it the most efficient way to deal with a person like Maximus. And thus, they lent their powers to assist Aries. As they did so, Abel, Conan, and the rest were tasked to distract Maximus.

    However, what they didn''t expect was the amount of power and control Maleficent had. It wasn''t like they underestimated it, but rather, they didn''t think that Maleficent not only bring this strong repugnance against powerful vampires like the Grimsbanne and the Royal Family in the maind but also, the power carried along the original Maleficent''s will and twisted beliefs before she passed away.

    Maleficent''s regrets were the things the host бк Aries бк felt like carrying out. Hence, with that mission forced into her, she locked everyone in Maleficent''s world. Only those who still had connections in the real world, like Sunny and Isaiah, were the only ones who could go back and forth. They didn''t know Maximus was connected to the king (Maximus III), thus he got out before Aries locked everyone in the spirit world. Marse got out as well.

    With their ns crumbling down, Aries only had one thought in mind: <strong>if she feigned ignorant and stayed as an average human with no powers, would things turn out this way?</strong>

    Aries copsed on her knees, unblinking, eyes on Abel. There, lying beside Suzanne''s remains, was Abel with a hole in his chest.

    "Darling," came out her shaking voice, nting her palms on his chest to stop the bleeding. "Abel!"

    Aries pressed her palms on his chest to add pressure, looking back at Fabian in a panic. They just arrived in the banquet hall, only to see Abel lying in his own pool of blood. Marse was nowhere in sight.

    "Ahбн" Aries clenched her teeth as tears blur her vision. "Ahбн"

    "Darling, I''m sorry," came out her shaking voice, trying her best to stop the bleeding. "I''m here now. You''ll be fine."

    Aries sniffed hard, shaking her head, trying to get herself together. She kept telling herself Abel wouldn''t die just like this. Thus, ignoring the fact that he had a missing heart, Aries tried to stop the bleeding first.

    "Fabian, wake up the night council. I need help!" she panicked as the blood sipped through the gaps between her fingers. "Quick! There''s so much blood!"

    Fabian pressed his lips into a thin line before he huffed quietly. "There''s no point бк"

    "Shut up!" Aries red at him, grinding her teeth furiously. "Wake up the night council. His Majesty is losing too much blood."

    "He had a missing heart."

    Her breath hitched and her neck instantly turned taut. "No," she denied before she could even think of a proper argument.

    "Abelбн he cannot die, Fabian." She shook her head, still putting pressure on his chest. "This isn''t enough to kill him."

    "That body doesn''t have a soul," he stressed to get his point across. "If there is no soul, how can that body function like it used to?"

    Her eyes widened even more, setting them back to Abel''s face. What Fabian said was a fact. Even if Abel was immortal, if his soul was trapped in the spirit world, nothing could sustain his body. With this realization in mind, her face crumpled helplessly as tears rolled down her cheek.

    "No." Aries shook her head mildly, sniffing, keeping her hands on his chest. "I''ll make it right. I will wake him up. He''s still warm бк I can do this."

    Aries closed her eyes, breathing out through her mouth. Her mind was in chaos, but she tried to clear it up, even if it meant allowing her witch to take over. If Maleficent could take over, she would know how to let them all out of Maleficent''s world. But s, before Aries could enter a state of calmness, Fabian grabbed her shoulder aggressively.

    "You''re making it worse. We have to go," he said, watching her lift her eyes to him. "There''s nothing we can do."

    <strong>There was nothing they could doбн</strong>

    Those words rang in her ears like a gong, almost deafening her. What did he mean by there was nothing they could do?

    "Your enemy is here." He tugged her biceps mildly. "Let''s go."

    "No." Aries shook her head. "I can''t leave him here."

    His grip around her biceps tightened, knowing spending a second in this ce was putting both of them in danger. Fabian didn''t care about Abel; they just met. He had no attachment to anything in this empire. But that didn''t mean he wouldn''t uphold his words.

    Fabian told Abel he would look after Aries until hees. Until thenбн Fabian needed to keep this woman alive for his sake as well.

    "Apologies," was all he said before using force, pulling her up to her feet. Without a word, Fabian dragged Aries, carrying her to his shoulder, and fled the banquet hall.

    "Let me go!" Aries struggled, pounding her fist on his back, but to no avail. Fabian didn''t budge, fleeing the banquet hall at full speed. Realizing there was nothing she could do to stop him, Aries raised her eyes.

    "Abelбн" came out her tiny voice as tension was stuck in her throat. "... help."

    All she could do was stare at Abel''s body as she got farther and farther away from him. Tears blurred her vision, stretching her arms, hoping Abel would wake up and hold her hand. That second, she wished Abel would just magically hear her cry for help and stop Fabian from taking her away.

    But Abel didn''t.

    Even when they made a turn, Abel didn''t move a muscle, and Fabian sessfully took Aries away from the danger in the imperial pce.

 Chapter 747 The Night Two Years Ago III

    Aries didn''t know where Fabian took her, but what she knew was that she couldn''t see the glorious Imperial Pce from the house they hid. All she could see from the terrace was a vast garden of the estate. The people in this ce were all sleeping. Thus, their entry was smooth.

    "Why did you do that?" she asked the moment she heard the door behind her creak. Aries slowly turned to face Fabian, clenching her teeth furiously. She stomped her feet, grabbing thepels of his clothes aggressively.

    "Why did you leave Abel and took me with you?" she continued through her gritted teeth. "What right did you have to decide for me?"

    Fabian didn''t budge, gazing at her with no emotion on his face. "What can you do with that current state?"

    "What?"

    "You can barely keep your sanity, let alone fight your enemies. Maleficent''s powers were undeniably powerful, but the king was right. What can you do against people like them who knew their powers as an extension of their bodies?" he pointed out sternly. "You can''t even undo the spell you cast upon them on your own. How can you save the rest if you allow your emotions to get through your head?"

    Aries let out a ridiculing scoff, releasing him in disbelief.

    "My emotions get through my head?" another wave ofughter escaped her mouth, staggering back, only to lurch towards him. "MY EMOTIONS?! That''s my husband!"

    Aries grabbed his clothes and tugged him aggressively, pounding his firm chest with all the strength she could. It wasn''t that she couldn''t understand his point, but how could she ept that so easily? Between her duties as the empress and her role as Abel''s wife, Aries would choose Abel in a heartbeat.

    Call it selfish, but Aries lost many people already. She carried each death of her people and was ready to pay for her sins in hell. However, she couldn''t take Abel''s death. If she didn''t rest when Dexter was forced into a slumber, how could she ept Abel''s death so easily?

    She had to do something that was on her mind. Aries didn''t know what she exactly have to do, but she needed to do something бк anything, instead of hiding.

    "He''s the only one I haveбн" her poundings on his chest grew weaker until she was just clinging to his clothes. She hung her head down while the top of her head rested on his chest. "How can I think of my life when heбн when I''m the reason he was vulnerable?"

    Tearsnded on the top of her shoes as her back trembled. "It was all my fault. They trusted me with their lives and yet I failed all of them."

    Fabian''s stern face softened as she went on and on, listening to her muffled voice. "Then the more reason you have to keep yourself together."

    Aries gazed up at him; she was already huping. Helplessness swirled in her eyes.

    "What should I do?" she asked under her breath. "I killed my husband and trapped my people. How can I undo everything? You wielded Maleficent longer, so you must know."

    "I have no idea." He breathed out. "Only you can know the answer to your question. What else can you do aside from crying, mydy?"

    Aries opened and closed her mouth, but her voice was stuck in her throat. She held his gaze for a long time before releasing his clothes. She then wiped her tears, forcing a brave look on her face.

    "I cannot undo it," she confessed, and he nodded. "All I can do is correct it."

    "Exactly."

    Aries bit her lips as she held her tears back, turning on her heel to face the vast expanse and darkness ahead. She sauntered to the railing, nting her hands on it, and slowly balled her hands into a fist.

    "I won''t cry," she muttered, holding the tears that were tempting to escape her eyes. But her traitorous eyes allowed a tear to roll down her cheek, which she wiped almost immediately. "This is thest time."

    Aries cleared her throat and huffed a deep exhale. She lifted her chin up, shaking her head, throwing the pain at the back of her head, and pretending her heart wasn''t bleeding heavily at the moment.

    "That''s my promise to you, Fabian. If I lose control, you too will be affected." As she acknowledge their connections, a metal band around her wrist and ankles appeared, which connected to Fabian. Thetter gazed down at the chains connecting the two of them but was not surprised by it.

    These chainsбн were what bound them. Although it appeared like normal heavy chains, he was certain it couldn''t be broken even if they try.

    "What can you give me in return?" she asked, turning around to face him.

    From his perspective, she looked so vulnerable. However, her eyes were as clear as the sun, illuminating on a stillke. It was enough for him to feel reassured.

    "I will be an extension of your body until these chainse off." He raised his wrist, shaking it mildly. "I will not meddle with your decisions from hereon. Whatever it is."

    Even when Aries hadn''t told him what she had thought just now, Fabian already knew what she was nning. The two of them stared at each other, having this silent agreement.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>THUD!</strong>

    Maximus''s brows rose, sitting leisurely on the throne with a beating heart in his hand. His eyes were on Aries, kneeling before the steps up to the throne. It had only been hours since Aries and Fabian escaped the imperial pce, but he didn''t feel the urge toe after them because he knew Aries woulde back.

    What Maximus didn''t expect was they woulde back this soon. But well, that wasn''t a problem. That saved him the trouble of looking for them.

    "Help me." Aries didn''t beat around the bush, lifting her sharp eyes to the man sitting on her husband''s throne. "Help me bring him back and I will do whatever you want me to."

 Chapter 748 [Bonus Chapter]Yearned For You Every Time I Breathe

    "Help me bring him back and I will do whatever you want me to."

    The corners of Maximus'' lips curled up, pushing himself up. His steps were slow, taking the steps down, and squatted down in front of her.

    "Do you know whose heart is this?" he asked, raising the beating heart in between them. "It''s his. I got it from Marse while the bitch was pounding her own head against the wall."

    Aries nced at the beating heart, clutching her skirt, but didn''t show the slightest emotion.

    "Heh." He snickered, pressing his thumb on her chin and raising it slightly. "Yourck of reaction is suspicious. Just what did you and that butler talk about during those hours you were gone?"

    "How to kill you." Her blunt answer made himugh. "Help me bring Abel back, and I''m yours."

    ? "And what makes you think I want you?"

    Aries stared at him with dull eyes. She didn''t answer, but instead, grabbed her cor and pulled it down, maintaining her eye contact with him.

    "That look in your eyes says it all," she smirked. "You might not want me, but surely, you want my powers. Go and take it as much as you want. After all, it seemed you are starving after failing to retrieve half of your powers from your father."

    Maximus assessed her haughty expression, licking his lips.

    "Well, I don''t think I want him dead as well. Not when he dies in the hands of another." Maximus closed in, cing his hand on her nape before opening his mouth to sink his fangs into her neck.

    Aries clenched her teeth as his fangs grazed her skin, but she maintain herposure. She moved her eyes in Fabian''s direction, only to see Fabian looking back at her emotionlessly. When she peeled her eyes away from Fabian, a glint flickered across them, listening to Maximus''s gulp.

    Her gaze lifted to the throne behind Maximus, only to think about the person who owned that throne. She then slowly closed her eyes, breathing out as she could feel her energy get drained.

    No matter how painful or how deep in hell she was, Aries pledged she would not shed a single tear. For as long as she could keep Abel alive, it didn''t matter how long it would take before Maximus could take every bit of her life''s energy.

    <strong>''I will wait...'' </strong>she whispered in her heart, shutting all her emotions in a ce where no one else could touch them. <strong>''... until the day youe and pull me out of this hell.''</strong>

    Since that night, Aries had to follow Maximus, binding herself with him in a blood contract. A blood contract was a contract between a vampire and a human that could only work with mutual agreement. Because Aries was a witch, the contract was different and unfair to her. She didn''t mind though, because Maximus helped Aries maintain the life force in Abel''s body.

    Her contract with Maximus wasn''t anything special, honestly. Aside from that, she had to feed Maximus her blood and give a portion of her powers to him since Maximus hadn''t retrieved his entire powers. Apparently, thest body he upied -- the previous king of the maind, Maximus III -- still carried the original owner of the body.

    In other words, Maximus III stayed in slumber with a part of this Maximus''s soul and power. Killing him also meant he could take the powers with him to the grave.

    What a crafty person.

    That was a quick summary of how Aries was in this arrangement with Maximus and Fabian. And it would remain that way until her nse into motion.

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>[ PRESENT TIME ]</strong>

    Aries hugged her body, hiding it under the shawl as she stood on the balcony. After visiting Marse, she parted ways with Fabian because Fabian had to keep an eye on everything. Aries could barely do anything in her position. Hence, keeping Fabian as her ''lover'' helped her do things ording to her ns.

    Fortunately, Maximus understood her connections with Fabian, and those watching her every movement were buying their scandalous ''affair.''

    "Today, I''ve seen the emperor''s seal," she whispered as her eyes softened, smiling subtly. "It''s been two years. I''m relieved he is back."

    Aries slowly raised her eyes at the sky full of stars where the moon shone the brightest. The side of her lips was curled up, breathing in the fresh night breeze. It was especially chilly tonight, but somehow, she could enjoy it.

    "Darling..." she whispered, staring at the night sky. "How have you been? Do you also feel reassured we are now under the same sky once again?"

    The glimpse of the Emperor''s seal amplified her longing for the man she yearned for every time she breathed. Aries closed her eyes, hugging herself, and somehow, she could imagine Abel hugging her from behind like usual.

    There were no words that could exin how much she missed him. However, she couldn''t help but wonder, would Abel forgive her? With the world he woke up to and the news that would surely reach his ears, what would he think of her?

    Aries reopened her eyes as bitterness resurfaced in them.

    "I hope he doesn''t hate me that much." She gripped her biceps tightly, hiding the exhaustion in her eyes. "That... will make me cry for sure."

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>*</strong>

    <strong>[ The Haimirich Empire ]</strong>

    Abel was sitting on the railing of the balcony attached to the emperor''s chancery. He had his eyes gazing at the night sky, swinging his foot back and forth.

    Knock Knock

    "Sorry to interrupt your alone time, Uncle." Samael knocked on the ss as he stepped inside the balcony. "Tilly was just worried you might cry all night. We don''t want your eyes swelling tomorrow."

    "Samael, do you know your mother used to fancy the young Lord of the Von Stein n?"

    "What?" Samael scrunched his nose up, hopped on the railing, and sat on it. There was an arm''s length distance between them. "Are you saying my father seduced her? The Von Steins likes patterns. Hence, boring."

    "Can you understand Ameria?" Abel asked, ignoring Samael''s additionalments. "If she fancies this man, I can''t understand how she can marry another and even have his children."

    "Well, you can''t understand it because it''s a person''s heart we are talking about."

    Abel slowly set his eyes to his side, only to see Samael shrug.

    "She might''ve done it out of love for a good-for-nothing or she might have a different reason. Either way, when matters of the heart are involved, people tend to do silly things. Speaking from experience." Samael smirked, ncing up at the night sky.

    "God damn it..." Samael crooned. "... I''d be in trouble, but just go if you want to go. It''s not like we need to --"

    His face contorted as he nced to where Abel was sitting, only to see him gone. Thetter already jumped off the railing, only to spread his wings midair and flew away.

    "Hey, that''s rude! At least, let me finish!" Samael clicked his tongue in irritation.

    A deep sigh slipped past his lips, cocking his head back to the person who was standing by the door. "Oy, Tilly, don''t scold me. I''m trying to be supportive."

    "Abel..." Tilly had her eyes on the small figure in the night sky. "... missed his wife. Thank you, Samael."

    Samael grinned from ear to ear. "I didn''t know you have a soft spot for your brother, Tilly. But you''re wee. They''re our family, right?"

    "Mhm." Tilly slowly cast her eyes back to Samael. "They''re family."

 Chapter 749 Nightmares

    "Abel?"

    "Hmm?"

    "What ifбн"

    "You won''t."

    "At least, let me finish talking." Aries frowned, looking up as she was lying on his side with her head initially resting on his chest.

    "You were going to ask what if we fail?" Abel arched his brow and peeked down at her.

    "No." She pouted. "I was about to ask about something else."

    "Something else?"

    "Mhm."

    "What is it?"

    "Uhmбн" Aries pursed her lips, pondering for a moment. In the end, she clicked her tongue in irritation as she narrowed her eyes. "How can you guess everything I say before I can even open my mouth?"

    "Darling, I am counting how many times you breathe in a day. What makes you think I won''t be interested in your train of thought?"

    "Are you peeking into my mind without me knowing?" she gasped, making him chuckle.

    "Darling, just your face and bodynguage alone is enough for me to know your train of thought." Abelughed, rolling to his side until he was facing her. "me yourself for that, darling. Not only you conquered my rotten heart, but you also left no room for anything in my mind."

    "Obsession is a bad thing." Aries narrowed her eyes yfully, poking the tip of his nose yfully. "Stop obsessing over me."

    "Stop being so pretty, then."

    She pursed her lips, trying to stop them from stretching ear to ear. "I''m born pretty. How was that my fault?"

    "And since you are, how was it my fault that I can''t stop thinking about you?" Abel nced up for a moment before he corrected. "Fantasizing. That''s the proper term."

    "Isn''t that the opposite of proper?" sheughed, moving her face closer to him. "I think you need some reeducation, Abel."

    Abel smiled and pulled her waist closer to his body. "I don''t mind taking my empress in as my tutor."

    "No."

    "Dress up for me. I would love to see you as an educator."

    "No." Aries shook her head yfully.

    "Please?" Abel nudged his nose against hers, making her chuckle.

    "Stop it. It tickles бк haha!" Aries wiggled as his fingers sneakily ran on the side of her stomach. "Abel бк haha! Stop it."

    His lips stretched even broader. "I need reeducation, darling. Let''s do some roleying."

    Abel kept tickling her until her waves ofughter filled their shared room. Only when she was tearing up did he stop tickling her, letting her recover for a moment whilst keeping her in his embrace.

    "Darling, you can always fail." Aries cleared her throat and refocused her attention on him as he spoke after a moment.

    "Hm?"

    "I said, don''t be afraid to fail." Abel shed her a gentle smile. "The reason I am the emperor and I am the way I am is because my people can fail. I want them to not be afraid of failure, knowing they have me to fall back on. So, don''t think too much if things don''t go your way. You have me."

    Her eyes softened, staring at the pair of loving and sincere eyes mirroring her face. Abel always had his ways to surprise her; be it with his ideas on their nights, his keenness in the royal court and how he prioritized his people''s well-being, and how he was as a husband, a partner, a friend, and a family.

    "That feels so reassuring, my husband." Aries cupped his face, gently brushing his cheek with her thumb. "Then, don''t me me if I failed you and this failure is irreversible."

    "The only irreversible in this world is my heart, darling," he humored. "I can never unlove you no matter what."

    "Lies."

    "Want to stab me?" his grin stretched until his teeth were showing.

    "I''m kidding." Aries rolled her eyes. "I know you can''t unlove me, and even if you can, you''re stuck with me, Abel."

    Mischief glinted her eyes. "How many times did we hold a wedding? So even if you divorce me once, you''re just annulling our first marriage."

    "Ah!" Her eyes popped open as a sudden idea crossed her mind. "Abel, should we get married today?"

    "Ah?"

    "We only married thrice!" Aries raised three fingers. "That means it will only take you three times to divorce me. Considering you have wings, flying to different ces to annul our marriage is easy. We should tie the knot in every country. In that case, we will have a long time traveling around the world just to rectify our marriage."

    It was a silly idea, yet Aries felt serious about it. Abel could only look at her with amusement before a burst ofughter escaped his mouth.

    "What?" she frowned. "Do you think it''s silly?"

    "It is silly, darling." Abel shook his head.

    "So three weddings is enough?"

    "No." He breathed out, smiling from ear to ear. "Let''s do it."

    "What? You meanбн"

    "Let''s go around the world and get married to each country and territory." He grinned excitedly. "In that case, you will need to travel around the world with me if you want to nullify this marriage. In other words, it will take you years before you can get away from me."

    Abel rubbed his chin as he counted the countries in the world. "That''s not enough. There were territories that has a differentw from their kingdom. Let''s just visit everynd and get married."

    Aries blinked as she listened to how he made ns, estimating the total of weddings the two of them would hold. The numbers just kept increasing as more and more ideas crossed his mind; they would have to wed approximately five hundred times if they followed his ns.

    ''This is my n, but why do I suddenly feel like I''m getting the short end of the stick?'' she wondered inwardly, staring at him as if this was his original n.

    "Thews in the Fleure, Isaiah''s territory are different, right?" Aries interrupted his nning, watching him raise his brows to him. "The march too бк my brother''s territory. Why don''t we head there and get married? Since we can''t leave the empire for too long, we should start holding weddings nearby."

    Abel blinked before he smiled. "Shall we?"

    That morning, Abel and Aries secretly headed to the north to get married, warranting Conan''s wrath. However, despite that Conan already breathing fire to them, they still dragged him to the March иC Dexter''s territory бк to get married that same night.

    These were just one of the moments that Aries and Abel treasured, and these cherished memories were also the ones she now called nightmares.

 Chapter 750 Nightmares II

    Nightmares were not new to Aries. Those nightmares haunted her, forcing her to wake up, out of breath. She used to hate them -- she still does -- as they only remind her of the hell she went through after the downfall of Rikhill, and then a different kind of hell in the Maganti Empire.

    Although those nightmares slowly disappeared as she moved on with life, Aries regressed two years ago. But her nightmares this time were different.

    Every single night, each time she would close her eyes, she would dream of being with Abel. Most of the time, her dreams were simply memories she created with him. They were beautiful memories filled with nothing but love, affection, sincerity, and silliness.

    These wonderful memories made her happy, pulling her up to heaven, only for her to wake up to reality. Her reality where he wasn''t with her.

    Aries slowly opened her eyes in the middle of the night, waking up to a nightmare called reality. Her expression was cold, gazing at the slightly opened balcony where the wind blow, making the curtain flutter.

    "A bad dream?" Her brows rose when a voice spoke behind her.

    Aries rolled to the other side, only to see Abel lying on his side. His temple was propped against his knuckles, shing her a short smile.

    "Missed me?" he asked with his ssic smirk.

    Her lips quivered as they parted, but her voice was stuck in her throat. Aries felt frozen on her spot, staring at him.

    "Hah..." she let out a short and breathyugh. "Did you?"

    "Very much." His eyes softened, stretching his hand to brush her cheek with the back of his fingers. "Did you?"

    Aries smiled as her body rxed. "Very much is an understatement."

    "I missed you..." she whispered, holding his hand that was on her cheek. "... to the point, I''d wake up to another dream."

    Aries closed her eyes, squeezing his hand as she gritted her teeth to stop herself from crying. It had been two days since she had that glimpse of the emperor''s seal, and since then, she would always hallucinate him.

    Just like tonight.

    When Aries reopened her eyes, the corner of her lips curled up into a subtle smile. She didn''t speak, knowing whatever he would say was only a part of her thought. These powers of hers, being able to see the different paths of life and even create a realistic hallucination, were akin to a curse.

    If Aries was not careful enough, she would lose her mind, living in a world where she was... safe.

    "I''m tired, Abel," she confessed under her breath, knowing she could only show vulnerability in front of him. Whether he was real or a mirage -- no matter what he was -- he was always her safe haven. "I... am exhausted. Take me away from here."

    Spending another second in this ce was hell. Maximus might''ve not tormented her physically like what Joaquin and the Imperials had done to her, but it was the same. In fact, it was worse.

    With every step she would take, Aries, needed to be extra careful and hold her breath. Every time she would breathe, she still feel breathless. And with each passing second, the chains bounding her felt heavier. It wasn''t something one would get used to or increase her tolerance. It was simply something she had to endure on top of finding ways to survive daily.

    Aries might be the holder of Maleficent, the most powerful witch to ever exist. However, she was still a human, and thus, she could get tired.

    "This isn''t living, Abel," she whispered through her gritted teeth. "Take me away from here."

    "Soon." His smile grew gentler, holding her hand and guiding it to his lips. "I promise."

    Aries smiled, despite knowing that promise was a part of her wishful thought of what he would say.

    "I''ll wait then." She moved closer to him, squeezing herself to his side while he kept her in the safety of his embrace. Aries clutched his chest, eyes down. Her smile was full of bitterness, breathing out the tension in her throat.

    "I''ll wait," she repeated under her breath. "You know where to find me, right?"

    "In my heart?"

    Aries chuckled weakly. "Mhm. In your heart."

    "You''re safe there," he humored with a deep voice, stroking her back gently. "Sleep now."

    "Mhm." Yet, she didn''t close her eyes as she tried to feel his impossible warmth. "You too, Abel. Let''s sleep."

    "I''ve been sleeping for two years."

    "No, you''re not," she argued softly. "I''ve been watching you. You didn''t sleep at all and just kept staring into the sky for days."

    "Sadly, even if it''s my world, I am still restricted to doing whatever I pleased. Can you believe it, Abel?" Aries let out a short bitterugh. "It is my world, and I created it, but s, I can only watch you from afar."

    "Is that what Gods do?"

    "I have no idea, but I guess it''s the same case?" Aries blinked until it turned weaker. "It''s not like the gods weren''t listening to our prayers. It''s just that they can only do as much as give us hints to ry their help and message. If only one pays close attention, that is."

    "I didn''t pay attention."

    "You don''t need to." Aries blinked once before her eyes slowly closed. "Your violent outburst every time I get closer is enough for you to know I was around. But you don''t want me around you; you can''t stand my presence."

    "Because you were Maleficent and I''m a Grimsbanne. Therefore, I naturally loathe you," were the words shest heard from him before Aries sumbed to slumber.

    As the night fell deeper, the person embracing her slowly disappeared, leaving Aries sleeping on therge bed all alone. Aries was left hugging herself to sleep, and unknowingly, while deep in her sleep, a tear rolled across the bridge of her nose.

    What a nightmare.

    *******

    Meanwhile, in therge ocean, a rowing boat was floating on the calm waters. Inside it was Abel, sleeping while using his arm as a head cushion, his other arm was over his eyes. When he moved his arm up to peek at one of his eyes, a shallow breath slipped past his lips.

    "You... break my heart, darling," whispered Abel, dragging his body to sit upright. "Seriously. She makes me sad."

 Chapter 751 106th World Summit

    Dreams or nightmaresбн no matter how good or terrible they were, Aries would still wake up the next day as if nothing happened. No one would ever see her vulnerable the moment she open her eyes and allowed her servants to enter the queen''s quarters.

    It was her routine, and she didn''t n to break that routine until the time was ripe.

    And just like that, the day of the world summit rolled in.

    The ce where the sovereigns from across the globe gathered was a separate newly established pce. Knights from differentnds wore their king or queen''s insignia and uniform proudly. There were only five knights allowed to apany a king, but considering there were over a hundred sovereigns who attended the gathering, there were a lot of people.

    To make sure that this gathering would run smoothly and peacefully as possible, the Queen of the maind employed knights to secure the area. The Summit, although, appeared to be the epitome of elegance and power was a dangerous event for everyone.

    After all, they were all in and where their powers and people were limited. Still, staying in this ce for a few days since their arrival and experiencing nothing but the best the Maind could offer, the atmosphere was lighter than expected.

    From the inside, there were only a few selected maids from noble families to make sure the guests were treated properly. Everything from the interior, the servants, and the conference room they gathered showcased the wealth of the Maind.

    Everything was almost covered with gold, seducing those kings who were struggling financially. Many attended by force since the Queen personally sent them an invitation, but just right before they could enter the conference, there were several people who changed their minds and considered being the Queen''s allies.

    It was obvious; Aries didn''t even have to observe that carefully since it was stered across their faces.

    Aries scanned the faces sitting around the enormous round table that had arge space for a person in the middle. The number of men in the room was obviously more dominant than the female rulers or soon-to-be rulers; Aries could count on her fingers how many females there were.

    All of them wore their country''s national attire to represent their country and culture. Some were almost covered, while others adorned themselves with several pieces of jewelry. They didn''t need to emphasize which country they represent though, for each of them had name tes of countries in front of them.

    "We are all gathered todayбн" the master of ceremony, standing in therge space in the middle of the table, broke the silence as he briefed everyone on today''s agenda. "... on top of the introduction of a newly established nation, we will also address the current world affairs including unsettled quandariesбн"

    The introduction took at least five minutes, listing everything that needed to be addressed for this week-long gathering. As they were briefed, Aries observed the people around the table. Some of them were listening attentively while others were casting each other res or knowing looks.

    ''I was once in a summit before,'' she thought, not paying attention to the master of the ceremony as she already knew what he was saying. ''However, I was kept in a cage. I didn''t know that the atmosphere in a ce where all powerful men were gathered is truly different.''

    If this was in the past бк the past where she had to represent Rikhill бк Aries would surely feel overwhelmed. Her father attended a world summit at least twice or thrice throughout his rule before thend of Rikhill fell.

    What Aries could only remember was that her father would alwayse home, exhausted. She thought it was because of the tedious journey, but now, she realized it wasn''t just the journey.

    The world summit was an important gathering to build connections, allies, and even earned enemies. If one was foolish, these sovereigns would eat them alive.

    "And with all thatid out, the 106th World Summit will nowmence," announced the master of the ceremony, motioning the elected officials to facilitate the gathering.

    People donning the uniforms of the World Summit that didn''te from any kingdoms including the maind approached the table. They all handed them papers and documents efficiently and carefully.

    Aries nced at the person, who ced a document in front of her. As a reassurance this summit wouldn''t be biased, Aries sent a separate letter along with the invitation. In it, she asked each king to send their best men to apply for this separate unit who would facilitate the gathering.

    Of course, to make sure that the people they sent wouldply, they were strictly trained for months. Keeping an eye on each other helped since that hindered anyone from taking advantage of it.

    ''I guess the rewards and punishment were proven effective.'' Aries peeled her eyes from the people serving them documents. ''It was great to keep this department and make it into arge, independent, and international organization that isn''t under any sovereign. I must invite London Leviticus for a cup of tea since it''s his idea.''

    Aries rocked her head, upying her thoughts with things that seemed unimportant. The only thing she wanted from this summit was for them to acknowledge the existence of the Maind and vampires. Hence, she didn''t have much to say in the current discussion.

    Aries arched her brow when she noticed someone''s gaze on her. She lifted her eyes, turning her head to the left where Ismael was sitting.

    ''What?'' she mouthed with a quirked brow, but Ismael simply shrugged. ''I heard he had been busy before the summit. Talk about not wanting to get his arrival known.''

    Aries mentally shook her head, shifting her eyes in a different direction on instinct. There, Veronika was staring at her. When she locked eyes with Aries, Veronika shed her a subtle smile as a greeting.

    ''I''ve seen her before the summit, but I must say she had grown.'' Aries smiled back at Veronika, snapping her eyes to the few kings currently debating regarding the tension between an unimednd. ''How boringбн''

    Her train of thought trailed off as she caught a person from the corner of her eyes. Aries slowly set her eyes on the right, only to see Maximus staring at her.

    <strong>''He isn''t invited, yet, here he was, ruining my day just by breathing.''</strong>

 Chapter 752 He Had Come

    ''He isn''t invited, yet, here he was, ruining my day just by breathing.''

    Maximus''s lips stretched wider as if he heard Aries''s thoughts. He dragged his seat closer to Aries discreetly, able to get away from everyone''s eyes as they were rather busy debating.

    "My lovely wife, why do you look so upset so early?" he asked, leaning his side against the armrest. "You haven''t even participated in the debate."

    Aries leaned back and quirked her brow. "There''s only one request when beforeing in here and that was no one should talk to me. Obviously, I was upset that I now have to repeat that request."

    "We have guests, dear." Maximus maintained a smile. "Should you show them how you loathe me?"

    "Just one smile and no one knew my desire to disintegrate you." Aries also kept her smile. "But since it is obvious you do not have any ns on leaving me alone, I''m intrigued. Just what did that man send you to approach me sneakily?"

    "Sneakily?"

    "That seat isn''t yours."

    "They added it because I request to have a spot beside you." His smile grew brighter. "Why do you think everyone has a seat despite me attending?"

    "I see." Aries peeled her eyes away from him with disinterest. "Stop talking to me."

    "But I want to talk to you. You''ve been cooped up in your chambers before the summit, dear. I was worried."

    "Worried?" She cast him a nonchnce sidelong nce, smirking. "Or scared?"

    "And why would I get scared?"

    "He ising, isn''t he?"

    "Pfftбк" Maximus nced at the people around the table to check if he disturbed them. Fortunately, he didn''t. He leaned closer and cocked his head to the side. "Why would hee?"

    Aries kept her poker face but slowly turned her head until she was facing him squarely.

    "He is not interested, dear," said Maximus with a triumphant smirk. "Are you curious about what the letter he sent me, hmm?"

    He didn''t get a response from her, but he still continued.

    "He said I shouldn''t show up in front of him or he will tear me apart," he dawdled. "And he congratted me on my uing wedding. I guess you call it a blessing?"

    Aries let out a short scoff. "You should know how to lie better, dear."

    "Hmm?"

    "He isn''t someone who gives his blessing, and if he did, he would do it personally," Aries corrected, keeping her sharp countenance as if she wasn''t affected by it. "You think you know him better than I do? Think twice, my dear."

    Aries paused, leaning forward as she stressed her next word. "For so long, you had admired him from a distance. I stood beside him, slept in his embrace, and even counted how many moles he had across his body. But oh well, just keep trying. You might bluff me one of these days."<novelnext>  </novelnext>

    "Hahaбн" Maximusughed quietly, leaning back whilst shaking his head. "If you know him, can you tell me why he sent me a nk letter?"

    ''A nk letter?''

    Deep lines appeared in between Aries''s brows, puzzled. She had been mulling about what letter Abel sent Maximus and she was dying of intrigue. Aries even thought of possible short threats, but never in her imagination did she think Abel sent a nk paper.

    "So you don''t know?" Maximus''s cocky voice snapped her back from her trance. "I guess you don''t know him just as you imed, dear."

    Aries quickly sported a smirk, telling herself this wasn''t the time to think about Abel.

    "Heбн was probably too tired to hold the pen and just talked to the paper in hopes his letter will write itself," she humored, sizing up Maximus. "I mean, I wouldn''t even waste my energy to write you one. What makes you think you are so important to him, dear?"

    "At least I got a nk paper. What did you get?" he spat back, smiling back at her. "Nothing?"

    The smile on Aries''s face faded slightly, reced with nothing but coldness.

    "What amazes me is your talent in pressing my nerves," she mused, only to hear him spit back.

    "And what amuses me is that after what you did, you are still hopeful he will ept a traitor like you?" Maximus bore a lopsided grin as contempt shone in his eyes. He leaned forward once again, stressing his next remarks.

    "That man will ept anything as normal, but he never epts traitors. He loathed them with passion; you either die proving your loyalty or live as his enemy. Don''t forget you chose thetter."

    Her jaw tightened as her breathing suspended, swallowing the sudden tension in her throat. No matter how annoying Maximus was, there were some truths in hisst remarks.

    Wasn''t that the reason she was afraid of facing Abel?

    What if Abel wouldn''t understand her reason and deemed them as mere excuses? Abel had an explosive temper, and if he considered her someone who betrayed him, Aries was aware of what would happen.

    Aries lowered her shaking eyes ever so slowly while Maximus smirked in ridicule. The voices in the conference sounded distant in her ears, clutching her skirt tightly, chanting to keep her cool andposure.

    ? ''Don''t let him get to your head,'' she told herself, only to see someone knock on her armrest. Lifting her eyes, all she saw was Ismael shaking his head mildly.

    <strong>''Keep an open eye,''</strong> Ismael mouthed and smiled subtly, making her furrow her brows. <strong>''He hasn''t won yet.'' </strong>

    Aries tilted her head to the side while Ismael looked away. Thetter''s expression turned stern as he faced the conference, leaving Aries with myriads of question marks. She peeked at Maximus only to see him smirking at her; it seemed Maximus didn''t notice Ismael.

    "Keep an open eye?" she blurted out under her breath, causing Maximus to quirk a brow.

    "Huh?"

    Just as her lips parted to distract Maximus from what she mumbled just now, her pupils went wide as her heart thudded. Maximus''s dted eyes and the sudden surprise that suddenly dominated his face proved Aries wasn''t hallucinating.

    He hade.

 Chapter 753 Three Knocks

    "Why?"

    Abel snapped his eyes to Aries, who was sitting across the round table. They were busy finishing some works as the monarchs of the Haimirich Empire, which wasn''t new to them at this point. Abel only had one request from the empress and that was for the two of them to call it a day before dinner, so they could have a meal together. After that, they would take a night walk before going back to their pce to finish a few works before rolling under the sheet.

    "Darling, I need you to ask the full question for me to give you a proper answer." He erected a finger and moved it sideways. "Else, I''ll just give you the answer, ''because I''m a beautiful creature, so why not?''"

    Aries chuckled, propping her jaw against her knuckles.

    "Why do you love me so much?" she asked out of pure curiosity. "I don''t think I can continue working if this question isn''t answered."

    "And what makes you think I will answer if that is the case?" Abel put the document on the side and then leaned his arms against the edge of the table. "I like it when you think of me."

    "I need to finish this or our people will starve."

    "My feelings are more important than their stomach, darling."

    "How are you the emperor?" her face scrunched up in dismay, making himugh. "If you don''t want to answer, then don''t."

    "Why?" Abel cocked his head to the side.

    "You need to ask the full question for me to answer you properly. Else, I''ll just say, ''I don''t care.''" Aries red at him, picking up the document grumpily. "Don''t talk to me, Abel. I''m busy."

    "Why did you close your eyes?" he asked as she attempted to refocus her attention on the document.

    His question hindered her from resuming her work, lifting her eyes back to him.

    "Huh?" she tilted her head to the side. "Closed my eyes, when?"

    "Your first night with me," he said, tapping a finger on the surface of the table. "Why did you close your eyes and slept despite knowing I was by your side?"

    Aries furrowed her brows. "Becauseбн I need to sleep?"

    Many things had happened since Aries met Abel. There were even moments she had forgotten how the two of them could converse this way. Back then, she had to think a hundred times before opening her mouth. But now, she wouldn''t even think of anything and doesn''t fear that tomorrow would nevere to her.

    His eyelids dropped as his eyes softened. "I was a dangerous person, Aries. Still, I am. If I don''t love and devote myself to the only person who trusts me enough to sleep beside someone like me, then how can others put their faith in me and entrust their lives in my hands?"

    "Ask me the same question tomorrow, and I wille up with a different answer for sure," he continued, cupping his cheek as he assessed her beautiful face. "However, I don''t think all of those answers will directly give you the answer to why I love you so much, darling. Bits and pieces, perhaps?"

    Aries pursed her lips before the corners of her lips curled up into a smile. "That answer is good enough for me."

    "Do you love me?" he asked out of in curiosity.

    "Yes." Aries nodded. "So much is an understatement."

    "Really?"

    "Seriously."<novelnext>  </novelnext>

    Abel rocked his head while leaning back. Her brows rose and her eyes narrowed, seeing him lift the document he put to the side previously.

    "Youбн weren''t working?" she blurted out, making him frown.

    "I was working, but I finished early." Abel nced at the parchment to see the sketch he did. "I''m working on my artistic skills. What do you think?"

    Aries studied the sketch he did which was her while she was working moments ago. "Not bad."

    "Not bad?" his frown deepened. "It was perfect!"

    "I am naked!"

    "Weren''t you?"

    Aries opened and closed her mouth, gazing down at her conservative dress that covered most part of her body. She hadn''t even changed into her nightdress, but she was already naked in his eyes!

    "Good lord." She shook her head in disbelief, covering her chest protectively.

    "Hmm." Abel narrowed his eyes as he focused on her chest area. "Rightбн you have bigger breasts."

    Her face slowly turned red, watching him gaze at his palm while he squeezed the air. Even though her body was no stranger to his touch, moments like this embarrassed her. But that didn''t stop him and sessfully distracted her from doing her work until it was time for bed. Meaning, time for Abel.

    The next day, and the following days after that, Aries earned this habit of asking Abel at least one question a day. Her questions were always different, but his answers to each of them would always move her heart.

    Abel would also ask her a question in return like a hobby. However, his question every day was the same.

    "Do you love me?"

    Every day without fail, he would ask that question as if his daily reassurance of her love.

    The reason this memory suddenly hovered over her head was that a question rose in her head at the thought of him. A question to which she needed an immediate answer or else she wouldn''t function properly.

    Does he still love her?

    Yet, despite wanting to know that answer, her heart couldn''t help but thud at the thought of meeting him for the first time after two years. More than her desire to get the answer to that query, her anxiety and nervousness were slowly dominating her.

    Aries and Maximus slowly turned their head in the door''s direction, wide-eyed and breathless. The sovereigns were still debating, unaware of the stench of blood that was wafting through Aries and Maximus''s nostrils.

    m!

    "Presumptuous!" a king''s roaring voice echoed as he mmed his hand on the surface of the table, about to throw a huge fit when three loud yet calm knocks interrupted the heated argument.

    <strong>Knockбн knockбн knockбн</strong>

 Chapter 754 One Question, One Answer.

    <strong>Knockбн knockбн knockбн</strong>

    The debate in the conference room halted, turning their heads in the door''s direction, only to see blood crawling underneath the door from the outside. But before anyone from the inside could react to the sight of the thick red fluid, the door creaked overly loud in their ears.

    As the gap widened ever so slowly, it revealed a towering figure of a man wearing slightly dirty clothing with specks of blood on his linen white shirt. His spiky hair was everywhere, ruffling it in irritation. When the door was wide open for him to see everything inside, his brows rose as he snapped his eyes.

    "Ahhбн so many people," came out a mumble, dropping his hand to the side.

    "Stop right there бк" the marshal who was present inside took a step only for his breath to hitch the moment Abel cast him a look.

    "I barely had enough rest for the past three days just to see one person. I am not in the mood." Abel warned, making the knight gulp nervously.

    Abel rocked his head in satisfaction, ncing around at the knights who were frozen on their spot. Even the participants of the conference didn''t know how to react, rendered speechless by his strong presence. He only said two sentences, but those were enough to intimidate them.

    Who was he?

    When that question rose in their heads, some of them had their pupils dted as memories they had forgotten resurfaced in their heads. Others remained clueless about his identity. There were a few, like Aries, Maximus, Ismael, and Veronika, who didn''t have the same questions or experience.

    Abel couldn''t care less, though. His eyes scanned the conference room and his eyes stopped when his gazended on Aries. Hisck of expression remained, holding her gaze.

    Meanwhile, Aries could hear her heartbeat drum against her chest. She held her breath subconsciously, gripping the armrest as tightly as she could. Time seemed to stop around her as it blurred, keeping her eyes on his figure as he marched in her direction.

    "Excuse me," murmured Abel, taking a step on one of the king''s armrests as a step up to the table. He didn''t go around the round table, walking a straight path, leaving trails of blood on the table. He then hopped off the table to the space in the center, walking past another king who was presenting a serious matter previously.

    "Good work." Abel casually patted the king''s shoulder, making thetter freeze at the cold touch that seeped through the fabric of his clothes.

    His gaze never left Aries until he was standing across her, nting his hands on the other edge of the table. He slid his palms on the side, spreading his arms, bending over until he was at her eye level.

    "Did youбн miss me?" was his first question to her after two years.

    Her lips quivered as they parted, but her voice was stuck in her throat. She wanted to look away, internally screaming at herself to stay seated.

    "Whatбн" she breathed out, managing to maintain her unfazed countenance. "... are you doing here?"

    "I asked first, darling. The first time I did before you."

    "What are you lot doing?" her eyes sharpened, speaking through her gritted teeth. "Seize this intruder."

    The knights looked at each other with conflict in their eyes. For this man to reach this conference room, only meant all those knights outside were defeated. There were over five hundred of them. When they nodded at each other and took a step, Abel cast the one look to stop them.

    "Youбн and Haimirich weren''t part of the summit anymore." Aries lifted her chin, all her facial features were sharp. "Leave now while I am asking nicely."

    A short chuckle slipped past his lips. "You haven''t answered, darling."

    Aries''s breath hitched, gripping the armrest even tighter. She turned her head to Maximus on instinct, only to see the man staring nkly at Abel.

    <strong>''Useless fanatic,'' </strong>she mentally spat out before setting her eyes back to Abel. But before she could spit out a lie, Abel repeated his question.<novelnext>  </novelnext>

    "Did you miss me?" he cocked his head to the side, batting his eyes ever so tenderly. "Yes? Or Yes?"

    "Hahбн" Aries ground her teeth as the fire in her eyes grew wild. Why was everyone not doing anything?

    "Abel Grimsbanne, what in the world do you think? I locked you inside that world because I don''t want to see бк"

    "All I want to know is if you missed me." He cut her off mid-sentence while his eyes softened. "Because I did. Every time I breathe, each time this heart beatsбн I missed you more than a second ago."

    Abel leaned over and stressed his next remarks. "One question and one answer. Whatever it is, I''d take it at face value."

    "Did you miss me, Aries HeathcliffeиCGrimbanne?" he repeated, this time dawdling his words. "Answer me."

    Aries bit her inner lip, keeping her eye contact with him. Her breathing was suspending and not long, a thinyer of tears coated her eyes. The coldness that was covering her countenance slowly showed cracks the longer he stared at him.

    There was no point in acting strong and unbreakable before him. He wouldn''t stop until he get the answer he wanted. Why lie?

    "I am in a blood contract," were the words she blurted out instead of an answer to his question.

    "That is not my question."

    "I failed."

    "Not it."

    Her nails scratched the armrest before loosening her grip. Aries drew a deep breath and released it through her lips.

    "Two years agoбн" she trailed off, catching him tilting his head to the side while raising his brows. "... yes."

    "Yes," she added under her breath. "Every second of my life."

    Aries dreamed of the day she would see Abel once again for the past lonely two years. She created scenarios, conversations, and even what would be their reaction. What would be his reaction? His first words? What sort of look would he have in his eyes? Would it be hate? Longing? Nonchnce?

    There were myriads of routes she had thought of; some of them were good, others were terrible. But she didn''t imagine that look in his eyes.

    <strong>Relief. </strong>

    She didn''t even consider he would be relieved to see her again. Perhaps, because of everything she had done until now, Aries lowered her expectations. She didn''t want to get hurt by her own expectations.

    Abel heaved a sigh of relief as he smiled subtly. He carefully raised his hand, extending his arm to brush her cheek with his thumb.

    "You can cry now," he said. "I''mбн home."

    Those words were akin to the key to the dam Aries had created each day for the past two years, allowing a tear to roll down her cheek. Before she could even think of anything, her heart spoke for her.

    "No. I am."

 Chapter 755 Saved Them The Trouble Of The Long Journey

    <strong>[ Love is choosing the many things a person did right rather than the things they did wrong. True love does not keep the records of wrong. ]</strong>

    <strong>******</strong>

    "No, I am."

    All it took was a question and an honest answer, and the turmoil in Aries and Abel''s hearts ceased. The better tomorrow they kept hoping toe finally came, happily dancing in the present to wee both of them home.

    Two yearsбн what a long vacation.

    "You will be very busy, darling." The corner of Abel''s lips stretched, wiping the tears that stained her cheek with his thumb. "You saved us the trouble of the tremendous journey, darling."

    Abel smoothly turned on his heel, facing everyone sitting around the enormous round table. His lips stretched even wider until his teeth were showing.

    "Can we add another agenda to this summit? You see, I promised my wife whom I married thrice to marry her in different countries, so annulling this marriage will give me a long grace period to win her heart back." A twinkle in his eyes shone. "Care to use that tiny little seal of yours to approve of our marriage?"

    There was a moment of silence in the room, puzzled by what they just heard. Even Aries was confused momentarily, only to snap back to reality when Abel nced over his shoulder.

    "Your ideas and efficiency always amaze me, darling," he mused before setting his eyes back on the people. "Good work."

    "That wasn''t in my n," she mumbled. "But wellбн alright. I''ll take credit."

    "Heh." A short chuckle slipped past his lips before his eyes slid to the corner, cocking his head back to cast Maximus a look.

    "What are you all doing?!" Maximus snapped back from his trance, mming his hands on the surface of the table. "

    His voice was akin to a p of thunder, snapping everyone back to reality. Everyone''s eyes slowly widened while some of them nced at the trail of red footprints leading to the door. A pool of blood was still by the door, rming everyone to panic.

    "What is the meaning of this, Your Majesty, the Queen of the Maind?!" someone harrumphed, seeing an exnation for what he believed was a trap. Although everyone knew the risk ofing to anothernd under someone else''s rule, there was a small part of them that believed in the queen''s spirit and words.

    "Oyбн is this your first time attending a summit?" Abel arched his brow, cocking his head to the side.

    "Presump бк" the king, who was secretly another king''s spokesperson to do thetter''s bidding, halted when the king on his side shook his head. "Huh?"<novelnext>  </novelnext>

    At the World Summit, it was true that all the kings all across the globe would gather to discuss world affairs. It was the reason the wars had be less and less; the ongoing ones back then ended. All were settled in this gathering of the sovereigns.

    But discussing affairs and peace was not the only thing that happened at the world summit. It was only a small part of the summit.

    The highlight and main agenda of the world summit were to discreetly gloat about one''s standing. Everyone in this room was the ruler of their ownnd. However, even in this ce, there was a hierarchy. Those monarchs ruling prosperous and wealthy countries would remain silent, while those who were struggling would do their bidding.

    In this case, those monarchs could directly get away from doing any diplomatic discourtesy. Some of them used this practice to make themselves appear good, ying bad and good cop. It was basically a game of wits to gain allies, get an upper hand, and establish their standing so no other king woulde up with a silly thought of coveting what''s theirs.

    Those who had attended the summit previously could only think of one man who was able to manipte the world summit and create waves if he so pleased.

    That man standing over there, looking all dirty and haggard.

    And one thing that everyone was aware of and wasmon knowledge to everyone was that, no matter how insufferable Abel was, one would want his favor than his wrath. Peace talks were pointless to him; he was the only person who would be crazy enough to wage a war over nothing.

    "What happened, Your Majesty?" the king, who stopped hisckey (the other king) from offending Abel, inquired sternly. "Just nowбн I didn''t know you. To be precise, I didn''t remember Your Majesty of the Great Haimirich Empire."

    The monarchs, who didn''t meet Abel in the previous summits, couldn''t help but furrow their brows. But s, they couldn''t raise a question, as the majority of them bore the same solemn and intrigue in their eyes.

    "What happened?" Abel hummed and nced at the fuming Maximus. "You can say I went on a vacation. The entire Haimirich went on a vacation and had the time of their lives spending day and night doing just whatever without any worry of starvation and the sort."

    "My son attended as my knight." Another one chimed in, speaking through his gritted teeth. "The knights outsideбн did you kill all of them to get in?"

    By his tone and the fierce look in his eyes, the man appeared as though he wouldn''t hesitate to wage a war against Abel if thetter gave the wrong answer. Some of them held their breaths as they waited for Abel''s ''confirmation,'' as they also brought their most trusted and capable knight lest the summit would turn for the worst. None of them expected this type of worse called Abel, though.

    Abel let out a shortugh and waved dismissively, propping his bottom against the edge of the table. He folded his arms under his chest, smirking.

    "I need your favor and killing your people contradicts that! I still want to frame all our marriage certificates on the wall as our memento," he eximed in a knowing tone. "Don''t look at me as if I don''t have any notion of what manners are. The blood that I am willing to waste without even tasting is not your people or any of you, I assure you."

    "I don''t n onmitting any crime aside from one," Abel added, cocking his head back, and his eyes fell on Maximus. "A crime of passion. Hello there, my dearest best friend. Nice to see you alive and well. That only means you have a life I can end."

 Chapter 756 A Good Deed Always Finds Its Way Back

    "A crime of passion. Hello there, my dearest best friend. Nice to see you alive and well. That only means you have a life I can end."

    A long silence fell in the conference room, staring at Abel, whose attention was fixed on Maximus. Maximus had gained a bit of poprity over the past two years; he was known as the man who abdicated the throne for the woman he was about to marry.

    Normally, Aries and Maximus had to bind their rtionship in a marriage. However, this was the maind, and they had different rules and traditions. That was why no one really raised questions since Maximus held total control of the Maind; he still does. Aries was simply someone to do most menial work, and she was but a puppet he control.

    Realization quickly dawned on many of them. They didn''t want anything to do with this conflict between Maximus and Abel.

    "Hahбн" A dryugh escaped Maximus''s lips, amused at what he heard. "I am surprised that you managed to step foot in thisnd without reaching my radar. Surely, I underestimate how sneaky you can be, my friend."

    Abel erected a finger as his lips parted, but then closed his lips as if he changed his mind.

    "Later." He pointed a finger at Maximus, smiling. "I will deal with youter. You''re not that important."

    A frown instantly appeared on Maximus''s face. "Not important, huh? Do you think silencing a few of my men is enough for me to let you do as you pleased in my territory?"

    Maximus smirked, raising his chin up. He didn''t do anything, but that second, multiple people appeared in the conference like shadows. Not just inside the newly established pce, but also, multiple knights under his orders surrounded the area.

    However, just as the knights appeared in the conference room, a few marshals inside wielded their swords to stop them froming closer.

    "Huh?" Maximus'' brows rose in puzzlement, assessing the marshals that were in charge to intervene in case an argument reach its boiling point.

    The people that were in charge of the summit came from eachnd across the world. Although it wasn''t official yet, he had heard that this unofficial organization would soon dere an independent organization with the purpose of imposing peace. Aries, although a part of this founding, had little control over it.

    Still, they were on the maind and the person in charge of this was still a citizen of the maind. Meaning, the chief was Maximus''s subject. Therefore, how bold of them to stop the king''s knights from seizing an intruder.

    "ording to our policy, His Majesty of the Haimirich Empire is a member of the Summit. Therefore, we ask Your Majesty of the Maind to order your people to retreat at once." said a marshal sternly, standing several steps from Maximus.

    "A member of the Summit?" Maximusughed in mockery. "And when did this happen?"

    He nced at Aries, and based on her puzzled reaction, he instantly knew she knew nothing about this. This mystery was answered almost immediately when a person in the room spoke.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I heard the summit is usually held in a neutralnd and is nned by those monarchs who had always been neutral since its establishment, including the first church to be ever established." Ismael broke his silence, keeping a calm countenance while casting Maximus a look. "But since those who originally facilitated the previous summit were reluctant to hold another summit or others dying ''naturally,'' the maind had to agree to the people of the world to create this organization."

    "I must say. Even though this organization is ought to be temporary until the end of the Summit, I am amazed at the results of their months of preparations and training to uphold their policy," he continued in a slow manner, guiding everyone to a certain point. "I do not mind knowing the existence of such an organization to keep the peace and order between humans and non-humans."

    "You''re the person who let him in?" Maximus arched a brow, watching Ismael cast him a nonchnt nce.

    "No. Your Majesty." The corner of Ismael''s lips curled up into a smirk. "How dare I let someone in a territory that isn''t mine?"

    Ayer of frost resurfaced in Maximus''s eyes, staring at that annoying smirk stered on Ismael''s face. Thetter definitely had something to do with this; Abel would never enter thisnd without Maximus noticing.

    "Your Majesty, is it safe to say this is an abuse of power?" Veronika, who had also been silent since the beginning, chimed in. She slowly leaned forward, cupping her cheek, eyes fixed on Maximus. "After all, since the summit is held in yournd, you think you can do just as you pleased? As far as I know, the reason we all took the risk ofing in here is because of the Queen''s oath in letting this newly established unit impose their policy. Allowing our requests to send at least one of our people to be a part of this unit had added reassurance in our hearts."

    Her eyelids dropped as the corner of her lips curled up into a smirk. "This unit or organization is a joint project of all the countries in the world. It is the world''s project. Are you going to waste the Queen''s effort to make this happen by going against the world?"

    "What a sharp-tongued girlбн" Maximusughed through his gritted teeth, only to hear more monarchs raise their concerns, obviously, siding with Veronika and Ismael.

    If they allowed these royal knights of the maind to take a step closer, this joint project would cease to exist. Furthermore, that only meant they would be in danger. If the king die in this very ce, the country they were leading would surely start a new regime in a war.

    There were many consequences if anything happened at this summit, particrly to those members of the conference. It was the very reason it took Aries two years to make this happen. They бк Ismael, Veronika, and many other monarchs and people бк wouldn''t allow Maximus to ruin her hard work.

    "Your Majesty," the marshal called Maximus once again, this time with a firmer tone. "I asked you once again to order your people to retreat at once. We will ept the emperor of the Haimirich Empire as a member of the Summit. And therefore, he is under the protection of theity of the nations. Failure toply, and we will assure you the Queen will not be able to protect you."

    Aries was in disbelief, hearing how this marshal stood his ground at Maximus. Her lips were slightly parted, darting her eyes between the marshall and Maximus, before shifting her attention to Ismael. Thetter winked at her, and when she shifted her eyes to Veronika, all Aries saw was Veronika shing her a smile.

    ''You twoбн'' Aries swallowed the tension in her throat, only to set her eyes on Abel on instinct. There, Abel was smiling at her from ear to ear.

    Just whatбн did this man do for the past three nights since he woke up from his slumber? How did he manage to do all this and reach out to people in such a short time?

    Little did Aries know, it wasn''t actually Abel who prepared all this. He wasn''t in the right state of mind. How things turned out like this was as simple as her act of good deed finding its way back to her.

 Chapter 757 From Anothers Perspective

    Two nights ago, in the Haimirich Empire, Isaiah was standing in front of the window when he saw a raven flying away from a particr window. His brows rose, narrowing his eyes, noticing an envelope in the bird''s beak.

    "He''s sending a letter," mumbled Isaiah, not surprised or intrigue what was the content of the letter.

    Abel was in slumber for two years. Therefore, he surely had many things to say, particrly to Aries or to Maximus. He didn''t even consider Marse, knowing Abel had no words for her. Marse would just know what it was like touching Abel''s bottom line.

    "No," he whispered, snapping his eyes ever so tenderly. "They will all know what are the real consequences of angering him."

    Silence followed Isaiah''s remarks, standing still in front of the window. He needed a moment to let the reality sink in; he needed to be sure this wasn''t just a dream where he would wake up if he wasn''t careful enough.

    Living all alone for the past two years wasn''t the best time of his life. It was better to have Abel driving everyone crazy, and Conan throwing a huge fit and ndering Isaiah. Dexter''s sneaky sidements were also better instead of just disappearing.

    It was ironic. Those times back then were chaotic, but Isaiah felt more at peace instead of the deafening silence for thest two years.

    BAM!

    Just as Isaiah was drowning in sentiments in the quiet chancery, the door was suddenly kicked open. His slightly soft expression died, guessing the person who suddenly barged in.

    "Oy, Deadmore. Is it true?" Conan''s nose red, fuming in dissatisfaction. "Was it truly your idea to bury me, hah?!"

    Rightбн Isaiah thought, frozen in his spot.

    "I just talked to Roman and Morro. They all told me they were sleeping infortable guest chambers." Conan stomped his feet, stopping several steps from the ''viinous'' Isaiah. He then stylishly pointed a finger at Isaiah''s back. "Even His Majesty slept in the emperor''s chambers for the past two years! Howe I am the only one who woke up in a coffin six feet underground?!"

    Isaiah pursed his lips into a thin line, wondering if Conan already knew that Isaiah even burned his beloved closet. Conan had an enormous walk-in closet where he kept all his ''expensive'' clothes, shoes, jewelry, and the like. It was Conan''s most treasured ce бк most of his sry would go there бк but now the ce was burned down.

    "You better give me a reasonable exnation or I will bury you alive!" warned Conan, narrowing his eyes suspiciously at Isaiah''s back. "I don''t care if you took care of the empire all this time. The Haimirich Empire in the spirit world already fell. It was like a ghost town, and I got used to it already!"

    "Maximus the Fourth wanted your body." A deep exhale slipped past Isaiah''s lips, turning on his heel to face Conan. "Before they left the empire, he was looking for your body. I heard it was because he wanted to use that body since it was the perfect ''shell.'' That is why I had to keep you away."

    What Isaiah said was nothing but the truth. Maximus wanted to upy Conan''s body because his current body бк the real Maximus IV бк had a weaker body. He was also having problems with his previous body, which was Maximus III. With Conan''s soul in the spirit world, it would be easier for Maximus to upy Conan''s body without a problem.

    "Then why did you keep me underground even after they left?" asked Conan, narrowing his eyes suspiciously.

    "He would still send people to the empire to look for you," Isaiah exined monotonously. "The spell around the empire is only to divert people''s attention. However, the people he kept sending were capable. It is for reassurance."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Conan kept his eyes narrowed before his face rxed. "Is that so?" he mumbled, clicking his tongue as he now med Maximus for it.

    Meanwhile, Isaiah, although he maintained a stoic countenance, secretly sighed in relief. It was not like he was lying about everything he had said, but he felt a little nervous.

    "Anyway бк" Conan abruptly stopped while Isaiah''s brows rose.

    Both of them turned their attention to the window behind Isaiah, sensing this abrupt wave of aura they felt.

    "He left," Conan blurted out under his breath, shaking his head. "Why am I surprised? Of course, he will not stay still when he was in a slumber for years."

    Meanwhile, Isaiah remained silent as he fluttered his eyshes. "He left without a n," he muttered, correcting Conan''s initial concern.

    It was true that it wasn''t surprising that Abel would leave the empire just hours after he had woken up from his slumber. Abel was capable, so they were certain he would be fine. However, the real concern was that Abel didn''t have any ns when he left and they were sure of that.

    "He can''t just improvise and figure it out when he''s already there," Isaiah continued, more aware and updated on what was happening in the outside world, unlike Conan.

    "Damn it." Conan scratched the back of his head in irritation. "I just woke up and now, I need to use my head."

    "Morro." Ignoring Conan''s whining, Isaiah called quietly. "You need toe back. Right now."

    Conan''s brows rose, snapping his eyes in Isaiah''s direction. Normally, Conan would be the one who woulde up with a n, but he still hadn''t got a grasp of the present time. His brain needs some time for it to function properly.

    "There''s no need to send the letter immediately. I need you to send a word to the same ce," Isaiah continued solemnly, keeping his eyes on the window.

    There was a moment of silence for several seconds before Isaiah heard a man''s deep voice in his head.

    "Alright," was all Morro said, before Isaiah marched toward the desk to write a few letters.

    It only took half an hour before a raven, with a letter in his beak,nded on the chancery. As soon as he did, Isaiah already finished the letters, holding three envelopes in front of Morro.

    "Make sure these letters will arrive tonight," said Isaiah, tying the letters across the bird''s body while avoiding its wings. "Let no one know about it."

    The raven just gazed at Isaiah before it nodded, flying away almost immediately.

 Chapter 758 From Anothers Perspective II

    "Make sure these letters will arrive tonight. Let no one know about it."

    Isaiah took a step back, watching the raven spread its wings before it flew. Morro was the fastest and the most capable bird the emperor had. The distance never mattered to him because Morro would deliver the letter earlier than any other bird could do.

    "I hope he doesn''t screw things up." Conan, who was standing several steps from Isaiah, folded his arms and rested his hands on the back of his head. "Morro had this tendency to screw things up in the most important time."

    "I hope he doesn''t."

    Conan smacked his lips, feeling a bit more rxed now that Isaiah was acting like Abel''s advisor. In the past, Isaiah''s role was the emperor''s advisor while Conan was the emperor''s sword.

    "Well anyway, since that seemed to settle things, I''d pack my stuff for our vacation." Conan nonchntly turns on his heel, strutting away. They had a few hours before setting off to the maind. Thus, Conan wanted to use this time to prepare since he had been sleeping for the past two years.

    Little did Conan know, the moment he mentioned packing up, Isaiah''s entire body stiffened. Thetter slowly turned his head, setting his eyes on Conan''s retreating back.

    ''I need to leave before them,'' was the thought that immediately crossed Isaiah''s head. This time, he knew he wouldn''t be able to get away once Conan found out about what happened to his residence.

    *

    *

    *

    "Your Grace?" Lilou, the woman who gave birth to Sunny, flinched as soon as she walked out of her children''s chambers, only to feel Isaiah''s presence. An awkwardugh slipped past her lips, raising her brows, assessing the grand duke''s gloomy face.

    "Your Grace, is there something you need?" she asked after several seconds of silence.

    "Is Sunnyбн awake?" Isaiah asked under his breath, lifting his eyes to Sunny''s mother.

    "Well, I just tucked her in."

    "Nevermind, then."

    Lilou furrowed her brows, watching Isaiah turn on his heel. "My daughter might not help now, but if you trust me enough, I might find a way to help you."

    Isaiah stopped momentarily before turning around to face her. The moment their eyes met, the woman''s face contorted at the slight life in his eyes.

    "I would like to meet Lady Tilly." Isaiah didn''t beat around the bush, but his straightforward attitude made her lips stretch.

    "Right." Lilou grinned yfully. "It is your first night as husband and wife."

    His expression instantly died, gazing at the mischievous woman. "Mydy, please do not tease me."

    "I''m just preparing Your Grace lest you don''t have any idea what Tilly will think."

    "I simply want to ask for a request."

    "A request?" she cocked her head to the side.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "That is if she can support me in maintaining the security of the empire. I nned to leave tonight."

    Lilou assessed the sincerity in his eyes before a shallow breath slipped past her lips. "Well, we can try. But Your Grace, if you don''t mind me asking, is there a reason why you want to hasten our ns?"

    "I will die."

    "Pardon?"

    "Conan Hakebourne will kill me tonight," Isaiah rified with hundred percent certainty. "Literally."

    "..."

    Sunny''s mother could only stare at Isaiah in puzzlement for a moment. But in the end, she still leads him to where Tilly and Samael were to move and change their ns. All of this for the sake of Isaiah, whose life was in danger.

    **********

    [ THAT SAME NIGHT IN THE MAINLANDбн ]

    Ismael sighed for the umpteenth time, sitting on the armchair several steps from the balcony. He let the doors open, allowing the air to cool down his room. The soothing moonlight entered his room through the door of the balcony, all lights in his room were off.

    "Just what am I expecting in this summit?" he wondered, propping his jaw against his knuckles. "I seriously don''t know what is going on or what she is nning."

    Another sigh escaped his nostrils, breaking his record. Since his arrival yesterday, Ismael didn''t have anything to do. He simply cooped up in this luxurious room, working on a few matters of the Maganti Empire he brought with him.

    Still, whenever it was time to rest, the thought of Aries, the Haimirich Empire, and Abel would cross his mind. Even though Aries and Abel agreed on a trade with him as Ismael''s repayment, thetter believed it wasn''t enough.

    He owed them big time. The entire Maganti Empire owed those two a big debt. If not for them, he could only imagine the worse for everyone under Joaquin''s tyranny.

    "What did she say again?" he mumbled to himself, recalling the ''different route'' of the Maganti Empire and the people in it if Abel wasn''t involved. Recalling her remarks made him shake his head. "I don''t know what''s going in her head. She could just simply ask for help. She knows I can never say no to her." бк even if it meant waging a war against the maind.

    He pledged to protect Aries if she needed it, and a part of Ismael believed Aries was simply trapped in her current position. However, without any rification from Aries, he couldn''t just act on his own. His unsolicited help might put Aries in a tight situation. Worse. He would only sabotage her ns.

    Rightбн

    Aries was someone who often had a n and a scheme she had concocted in her head. Even if she was at a disadvantage, Aries wouldn''t just let things as they were without a fight.

    Tak.

    Ismael''s train of thought trailed off, snapping his eyes at the balcony. The wind blew a bit stronger, making the curtains flutter with a few feathers dancing in the air. His eyes fell on the shadow that stretched inside, lifting his gaze up until his head slightly tilted back at the towering figure standing on the balcony.

    This stature, those distinct shoulders, and auraбн all seemed too familiar for Ismael. There was only one person he knew who had such unique features.

    "Morro?" Ismael''s pupils dted as a sharp of porcin suddenlynded on the floor from Morro''s razor teeth. "Whyбн howбн. No, what does His Majesty need?"

 Chapter 759 First Letter Recipient

    [ To His Majesty of the Maganti Empire, Ismael Imperial,

    Apologies if I wouldn''t go through the formality of writing Your Majesty a letter, for I had to write this in a hurry. It had been years since ourst contact, but I would like to ask Your Majesty for a favor.

    Please, list the emperor of the Haimirich Empire as a legal member of the summit. I couldn''t go through the details, but I hope you may help us make it happen. Another thing, please do so at your discretion.

    Your help will surely be recognized and acknowledged.

    The Grand Duke of Fleure,

    Isaiah Darkmore. ]

    Ismael read the letter quickly, as it was rather short but straightforward. The Haimirich Empire and the Maganti Empire were now allies that had shared fruitful trade that could benefit both parties. The Haimirich Empire had been supplying the Maganti Empire''s arms to strengthen the military power of Ismael and give provision to the granary, knowing the Maganti Empire was still unstable. In turn, the Maganti Empire, which was rich in minerals, would supply the Haimirich Empire.

    Back then, Ismael doesn''t contact Abel directly, but Conan or Isaiah handled the trades. Hence, Ismael exchanged letters with Isaiah and Conan countless times. The main reason Ismael would recognize this handwriting, even if Isaiah sent a different carrier to deliver the letter.

    "Is His Majestyбн" Ismael snapped his eyes at the person sitting across the coffee table between them. "... attending the Summit?"

    Morro, who was still under a cloak, slowly raised his eyes. No word came out of his mouth even when his lips parted, only to purse it and nod.

    A shallow breath slipped past Ismael''s lips, assessing Morro''s demeanor. Morro was a strange creature. Even though it was clear that this man wasn''t a normal human and could shapeshift into a raven, countless questions still hovered in Ismael''s head.

    "I think Her Majesty knows about it," he mumbled to himself, referring to thest remarks Aries had said when he arrived on the maind. "But why do I need to list him? Is their marriage crumbling down?"

    Ismael pondered about it until he ruffled his hair in irritation.

    "Forget it. That''s not of my concern," he sighed, peeking at the letter in his hand as well. "The ink is still fresh. Was it sent the same night?"

    Morro nodded, but this information didn''t surprise Ismael. One of the many reasons the Haimirich Empire was untouchable was because of its fast transmission. There was one time Conan had to do a quick follow-up message and sent Morro; Morro wasn''t the only bird who would fly to the Maganti Empire to deliver a message. He would only do so if it needed to reach a recipient quickly, or if Morro wanted some snacks from Ismael. Ismael spoiled this man quite a bit.

    ? "Knowing what type of man he is, he probably charged into this ce without a n. Perhaps, His Grace sent this letter in a hurry to prevent the worse," Ismael guessed, as this was the only logical reason he could think of at the moment. "I don''t know what happened in the Haimirich Empire two years ago, and why everyone just suddenly forgot about this great empire."

    "However, if he ising, I also need to make sure he wouldn''t cause trouble," he continued, nodding at himself as he had a one-man conversation. "The Summit is filled with important figures from across the globe. If a war urred or an intense battle between vampires ensues, there''s no telling if we can all leave this ce in one piece."

    "And if that happened, it can ignite a world war," he added as his expression turned solemn.<novelnext></novelnext>

    This was probably what Isaiah also thought for him to reach out to Ismael in a hurry instead of Aries. Right now, Abel''s and Aries''s rtionship was still vague. Ismael didn''t know what happened between those two, but he believed there was a reason because Aries was to be betrothed to Maximus, the king of the maind.

    "Moreover, that lover of hers she keeps to the side бк ughбн!" Ismael shook his head to get his thoughts together. "This isn''t the time to worry about those two."

    Ismael ruffled his hair once again, clicking his tongue in annoyance. Another deep exhale slipped past his lips, snapping his eyes back to Morro, who was currently munching the teacup after pouring the tea on the floor.

    "Morro, is there something I need to know aside from the content of this letter?" he asked, taking his chances to get more information.

    Morro blinked three times before his lips parted, revealing his razor teeth and some shards in his mouth. "I have another letter to deliver to someone, and His Majesty is beyond angry."

    "His Majesty is beyond angry, huh?" Ismael rubbed his chin as that sounded like a normal urrence. "Isn''t that a natural response after your entire empire was forgotten? Even his existence?"

    "His Majesty never gets angry."

    Ismael arched a brow, casting Morro a look. "Never?"

    "Rare."

    "Now that I think about it, he is the person who finds entertainment in everything." Ismael lowered his eyes as he mulled it.

    Ismael could only count the times he personally interacted with Abel, but from what he learned from all those interactions was that Abel might have a twisted train of thoughts and personality. But angerбн was something Ismael had never seen in Abel''s eyes. Annoyance and amusement, perhaps, but Abel seemed like the person who would take a ton lot for someone to anger him.

    "In any case, if being a member of the summit is what His Grace needs, it''ll be troublesome, but it''s not impossible." Ismael rocked his head, setting his eyes on Morro sternly. "I won''t be able to write a reply, but rest assured, I''d make it happen. For me and for this summit."

    Morro just stared at the determination in Ismael''s eyes but didn''t have any reaction to it. Thetter didn''t mind, though. Morro''s only concern was his meal; whether people get hurt in a crossfire or they survive was not of Morro''s concern.

    That same night, when Morro fled away, Ismael secretly called for his knight to give him two orders. The first order was to arrange a meeting with the Queen of the Chivisea, Veronika Barkridge. The second order was to scout the fort discreetly to give Abel a smooth entrance.

    Fortunately, Aries favored Ismael and gave him the privilege of having more soldiers disguised as servants. With the people of the Maganti Empire and those from under Veronika, they were able to bribe and even divert the guards'' attention from noticing the particr devil entering the maind.

    However, Ismael and Veronika couldn''t do all this without another person''s help. Or rather, a few people help that had been waiting for their chance to strike.

    The recipient of the second and third letters Morro had to meet that same night.

 Chapter 760 Second And Third Recipient

    [ To the master of the dark spear,

    As much as would like to write you a formal letter, this letter required urgency. There were many things left unsaid two years ago, and I asked for your extended understanding for not sending you a proper letter.

    To be truthful, I am unsure myself which side are you on. However, a part of my soul had faith in the young princess of thend I pledged to serve. She trusts you, and therefore, after years of doubt, I will take a leap of faith and believe in her spirit.

    Please assist us.

    Isaiah. ]

    The same night Abel''s letter to Maximus arrived and Isaiah''s letter reached Ismael''s hands, the second recipient was delivered sessfully. Just like the first letter, the second one was short but slightly more vague than the first.

    Standing in the middle of the queen''s garden with a letter in his hand and a gardening can in the other, Fabian shifted his eyes at the raven standing on the bench. The moment he locked eyes with the bird, his eyes squinted as a smile turned up on his face.

    "It''s you again," said Fabian to the raven. "Have you eaten anything?"

    Fabian carefully ced down the watering can and then folded the letter, slipping it inside his vest. His hand then went inside his pocket, fishing out a handkerchief. Fabian slowly peeled theyers of the handkerchief, revealing a small, round candy.

    "Here," he bent over, offering the candy to the bird. "Have some."

    The raven assessed the butler''s smile which reached his squinting eyes. Even though Fabian was smiling, there was just this dangerous and suspicious aura emanating from his back.

    "Say ahhбн" Fabian trailed off as the bird spread its wings and flew away. "Myбн"

    A deep sigh slipped past his lips, gazing up as his gaze followed the raven flew away and camouged in the dark. He shook his head mildly before looking down at the candy in between his index and thumb.

    "What an interesting creature," mumbled Fabian, cing the candy back in the handkerchief before putting it back in his pocket. "It would be nice to open him up and see how he was built. It''s not like I nned to roast it. I will stitch it back just after peeking at what''s inside that body."

    Fabian let out a sigh as he looked heavenward once again. Silence followed his mumbling before he carefully set his eyes back on the castle nearby. There, he could see Aries standing on the balcony. She was gazing at the sky with such forlorn in her eyes, hiding in that thin shawl as the wind blew her hair back.

    "What a gorgeous thing," he mumbled, admiring the beauty not far away. However, aside from admiration, there was no desire in his eyes. All there was honesty.

    Aries was truly a woman with unparalleled beauty, yet with powers so destructive. She was like a goddess who fell from the grace of the heavens and was now lost in this hell.

    "Pity," he added under his breath. "It seemed she had no idea of what was going on and what will happen in the following days. sбн I guess that would be for the better since all eyes were on her."

    The letter Fabian received moments ago was frankly vague. If he was someone else or a little less dull, he wouldn''t understand it.

    [ Please assist us. ]

    That was the only thing he focused on in the letter he received; the rest were nothing but worthless scribblings.

    "Assist them, huh?" he slowly turned on his heel, rubbing his chin with a finger. The side of his lips curled up into a smirk as his squinting eyes slightly cracked open. "It is good I met him once and conversed with him, even for a short while." бк that short interaction with Abel two nights ago gave him an idea of how the gears in the emperor''s head turn.<novelnext></novelnext>

    With that thought in mind, Fabian sauntered off to give a little bit of his ''assistance.'' Heading to the only way a ''simpleton'' like Abel would take, arge grin dominated Fabian''s face as if he was looking forward to weing his new friend home.

    *

    *

    *

    Meanwhile, in one of the private residences situated in the heart of the maindбн

    A woman opened the window from the inside of the chancery, stretching her arm as a ravennded on the side of her hand. Her thin lips curled up into a smile, gazing at the hauntingly stunning raven that had silky ck feathers.

    "It''s been a while, Morro." Her voice sounded pleasant in the ear with a tinge of dominance. "I never thought I''d be able to see you in this lifetime again. Or rather, I never thought I''d be hearing from him in this lifetime."

    A soft chuckle slipped past her thin lips, stroking the raven''s neck gently. Her long tinum hair fell on the side of her face as he lowered her head, taking out the envelope in the bird''s beak. The woman kept it in between her fingers, looking at the in envelope back and forth without opening it.

    "What a child," she chuckled, setting her eyes back to the raven. "It''s dangerous in this ce at the moment, my dearest Morro. Rest if you need be. My residence is always open for you."

    The woman moved up her hand slightly, making the bird fly inside the chancery. Her smile remained, watching the raven fly directly to the jar on the stand that had an eyeball in it.

    "I''ll be back, dear. Although I do not need to read the letter that child had left, I''m sure someone is interested to take a look at it," said the woman, sauntering off while the raven pecked on the eyeball in the jaw.

    The woman waltzed through the dark and empty hallway of the residence until she reached a particr room. She knocked once and waited for a response, but when a minute had passed in silence, she opened the door ever so slowly.

    The moment the door opened, her eyes fell on the man doing push-ups in the generous space in the middle of the chamber. He had no upper clothing and his skin shone because of theyer of sweat on his body.

    "Look what I got, Marquess." The woman folded her arms under her chest, leaning her side against the jamb. "It seemed you''d be able to get out of here soon."

    The man, Dexter, paused. He turned his head in her direction, only to see her waving an envelope that had Isaiah''s seal on it. Dexter pushed himself away from the floor, standing smoothly, and didn''t idle as he marched toward her.

    "Give it to me." He reached for the envelope, only for the woman to move it away slightly. His lips curved down, frowning. "London Leviticus, hand it over."

    "I made a promise to your sister, Her Majesty, the Queen, to keep her brother safe. I understand that your ego was bruised, but I hope you understand it was a mutual agreement with mutual benefits."

    Dexter assessed the sly woman''s face; she had a slight resemnce to Isaiah but was way more annoying. He snapped his tongue, snatching the letter from her.

    "I understand the reason she stripped herself of the people she cared about so they wouldn''t use us as a leash to her," he said as he opened the envelope calmly. "Regardless of my thoughts, all I want to know is if that damn husband of hers finally woke up to his senses."

    Dexter''s eyes shone in contempt as he skimmed through the letter. A glint flickered across them upon reading it allpletely, lips curled up into a smirk.

    "Finallyбн" he breathed out, crumpling the paper in his hand. "We can all settle the scores soon."

 Chapter 761 It Was Self-Defense

    [ PRESENT TIME ]

    Even though Abel didn''t meet Veronika and Ismael whening to the maind, Fabian ensured their efforts wouldn''t be unmentioned. Of course, Abel had to exert a bit of effort by concealing his presence. But since even with a concealed presence, the natural air he emitted was something Maximus could sense even from a mile away.

    How did Maximus not notice him?

    Well, that was because of another person''s help. London Leviticus.

    The side of Abel''s lips curled up, wiggling his brows at Maximus. Thetter had this sour look stered on his face, gazing at everyone in the conference, who was looking back at him with a mix of dismay and solemnity.

    "Your Majesty," called the marshal one more time. This time, his voice was lower and his tone was colder. "Please. Allow us to do our duty and let this summit start and end in peace."

    "Hahбн" Maximus let out a dryugh, setting his eyes back on this audacious marshall. "He is a member of the summit, but aren''t I one, as well? He had ughtered my men in my territory. Yet youбн and everyone in this ce wants me to turn a blind eye to my men''s deaths? Howughable."

    ''Since when did he care about his people''s lives?'' Aries mentally blurted out, biting her tongue to keep her thoughts to herself. The tension in the conference room was already high and almost suffocating, adding sarcasm to it wasn''t a good idea.

    Aries was already puzzled herself; she too wasn''t in a good shape and was still in disbelief at the turn of events. This wasn''t what she had expected today; at least, this was not the kind of trouble she was looking forward to.

    "In my defense, you men blocked my path." Abel spread his hands to the side, shaking his head mildly. "As a member of this summitбн" he trailed off, cocking his head back, cold eyes falling in Maximus''s direction.

    "... how dare those insolent forbid my entry and raise their weapons at me?" his tone dropped as coldness suddenly added to the stifling atmosphere. "Maximus, my dearest friend, I was merely defending myself. It was self-defense; not because you ruled the maind that was isted from the rest of the world, you can be this barbaric and oblivious of what it is like outside the corners of this country."

    Maximus balled his hands into tight fists while his body trembled in anger. In his eyes, the sudden glow in the eyes of everyone in this ce was the look of mockery. Were they thinking that just because the maind wasn''t a part of the world until two years ago, they бк the king was a fool?

    Surely, they were all pushing their luck, was what he thought.

    "I was, indeed, a self-defense," the marshall, who turned silent while waiting for Maximus''spliance, spoke once again. "I confirmed it just now. However, if Your Majesty isn''t still satisfied, you can always raise aint to the chief deputy."

    "I will ask you for thest timeбн" the marshall trailed off as many loud footsteps grew louder, echoing in the open conference hall. His eyes grew sharper and colder, raising his chin, while countless soldiers from the said organization intruded on the conference and surrounded the royal knights under Maximus''s order.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "... order your men to retreat, Your Majesty," continued the knight sternly. "Don''t lose more of your people."

    Some monarchs tensed up and panicked at the appearance of more soldiers inside this sacred conference hall. Now, not only escorts who were granted to stay were inside throughout the summit, but the royal knights who intruded first to subdue Abel, and then more knights from thismittee thronged the ce. Fortunately, the conference hall was enormous enough to upy everyone inside.

    If Maximus didn''t back down, blood would spill for sure. The monarchs didn''t want to get caught in the crossfire. However, since the majority of the monarchs didn''t move from their seats and kept stern expressions, none of them didn''t want to do the initiative.

    "Moving from this seat means you do not trust this organization the world is trying to build," Veronika suddenly spoke upon noticing the panic on some kings'' faces. "However, I trust in this joint project. We are trying to create a wonderful organization that will protect the world from copsing from countless wars. Therefore, even when the swords were drawn, I''ll stay in this seat and trust that I''ll be able toe out of this ce unscathed."

    Some monarchs gazed at her with shaking eyes mixed with horror, while other monarchs'' expressions turned grim. Those in thetter were aware of that. Thus, even if their hearts were hammering through their chest, their pride impeded them from fleeing before the swords were drawn. Not all of them were courageous enough to put all their faith in this organization, but they had to. If they couldn''t trust this organization, then no one else would.

    "King Maximus," called Ismael solemnly. "You may want to stay stubborn to uphold your honor. Or you back down and show us that a king could lower his pride for the sake of the world and the people we must protect. No one would see it as cowardly, but rather, an honorable act for the sake of the many."

    "The Emperor of the Maganti Empire is correct," said another king in agreement.

    ? "That''s right, King Maximus." Another one chimed in, although his tone was awkward and shaking nervously. "This is a misunderstanding between kings!"

    "Normally, when two monarchs had a misunderstanding, a war would arise. However, since the summit''s very agenda is to prevent more wars from arising, we should set an example right now!"

    "Yes! If this is settled, then we can rest assured this joint project is heading to its rightful path."

    One after another, the monarchs spoke in agreement, voicing out their thoughts to prevent blood from spilling. But s, unlike their intention to have a more peaceful resolution and calm Maximus, thetter took it as theplete opposite.

    Maximus lowered his head, hiding the dark, and coldness stered on his face. He listened to all the nonsense buzzing, taking it as all of them ganging up against him, ridiculing him, and underestimating him just because he hadid low for the past two years.

    "How disdainful."

 Chapter 762 What A Mess On The First Day Of The Summit

    "How disdainful." A whisper slipped past Maximus''s lips, but that quiet remark brought this silence in the conference room. Maximus slowly raised his head, revealing the murderous intent in his eyes. "Back down? Call for a clever retreat? Hahбн aren''t you simply ganging up to bully me?"

    He cocked his head to the side, fluttering his eyshes ever so tenderly. "Why? Was it because the Maind had been an istednd until recently? Do you all see me for a fool?"

    "Surely, I should''ve known thisбн was a terrible idea. Perhaps you are all correct. I was a fool to believe that this world will allow me, mynd, and my people to get recognized and establish my footing through peaceful means," he continued, sending a wave of chill down everyone''s spine. Even though he wasn''t finished with his sentiments, everyone already got his answer.

    "There''s really no effective way to let people listen other than instilling fear in their hypocritical hearts," he added through his gritted teeth. His appearance was calm, but surely, one could feel he was seething with anger.

    Many of them swallowed the building tension in their throats while the rest kept their grim and solemn expression. Those words that came out of Maximus''s lips just now were nothing but a threat, which they were certain wasn''t an empty one.

    "I think I had heard enough of this nonsense," he continued, nting his hands on the armrest and pushing himself up. "What a joke. Perhaps the only good thing I could say about this is that it saved me the trouble of putting up with you all for the rest of the week."

    Maximus faced the marshall four steps away from his vantage point, raising his hand and spreading his fingers wide open. When his pupils dted, a force pulled the marshall''s body in Maximus''s direction. In a blink of an eye, Maximus was grabbing the marshall''s neck without moving from his spot.

    Shing!

    The moment Maximus utilized his ability, swords were drawn from all the soldiers present. However, none of them charged as if a force stopped them from moving a muscle.

    "You dareбн?" he scoffed, gazing at the marshall with contempt. "Surely, humans are the silliest creatures to ever exist in this world. Even animals would sense who to cross and run from. Unbelievable. You are nothing but a human and yet, you kept wagging that tongue of yours. I am unsure if that is because you are simply dense and ignorant or you desperately needed to enter hell. Either way, I hope you are prepared for the consequences."

    His eyes lit up with the building fury from within, gripping the marshall''s neck tightly. Meanwhile, everyone was stunned and unable to react quickly when the marshall suddenly flew to Maximus and was not being lifted by the neck.

    The marshall held Maximus''s wrist with both his hands as his feet left the ground. Yet, those pair of fiery eyes Maximus bore mirrored the face of a man with no fear of death. Even when the marshall''s face turned red due to theck of air, he didn''t show the slightest resignation to Maximus.

    "Youбн" Maximus''s anger reached its peak, seeing theck of fear from the marshall.

    "... enough." A soft voice echoed in the conference hall, followed by a crack as if a bone had cracked. "I heard enough. Let him go, Maximus."

    Aries drew a deep breath, turning her head in Maximus''s direction. Thetter''s fingers that were wrapped around the marshall''s neck slowly peeled from it, fingers cracking one by one.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Do not interfere, my dear," warned Maximus through his gritted teeth, unfazed by the powerful force that was making him loosen his grip on the marshall''s neck. "Don''t anger me more."

    The corner of Abel''s lips curled up, casting Aries a yful look. However, Aries ignored that look on Abel''s face as she kept her eyes on Maximus. Her other hand was raised, stopping all the soldiers from both parties from engaging in a fight.

    ? If not for Aries utilizing her powers, blood already tainted this sacred ce the moment Maximus grabbed that marshall''s neck. Aries slowly stood, scanning the mixed expressions on every monarch''s face. There were only two expressions that dominated their faces: a mix of fear and panic, and then displeasure at Maximus''s attitude.

    "One of this summit''s agendas was the recognition of the maind being a part of this world," she stressed in a solemn tone. "Although we do not need anyone''s approval to announce our existence, we still chose a peaceful resolution. Therefore, please understand that since the maind hadn''t interfered with any world affairs for so long, there were many things we are so afraid of and practices that were hard to change in just a few years."

    "One of them was thete entrance of the Emperor of the Haimirich Empire," she added, setting her eyes on Abel. "I''m certain the royal knights were merely doing their job, assuming all the members of the summit were already in here. Therefore, they probably assumed that the emperor was nothing but an intruder and they were simply ensuring the safety of thisnd''s esteemed guests."

    "I also understand the emperor of Haimirich didn''t have a choice but to fight for his right. It must''ve been stressful for you and I take responsibility for this misunderstanding," she stressed, making others frown in dissatisfaction.

    Misunderstanding? Who was she lying to? Everyone now was aware of the disappearance of the great Haimirich Empire, and they were quick to connect the dots since the maind appeared around the same time. Moreover, didn''t Abel and Maximus shamelessly publicize their grudges against each other?

    None of them rose those rebuts, though.

    Aries already put it that way and since she rationalized it under the facade of a misunderstanding, it would only appear that anyone who refute that wanted this fight to continue. It was better to deem it as a mere misunderstanding than drag this longer.

    "As the host of this summit and the queen of the maind, I expressed my sincerest apology for this." She lowered her head, doing the duty of the queen. "This is my first time hosting such an event, and I am stillcking. I hope you extend your understanding and give me a chance to correct this. I will make sure such a misunderstanding will not happen ever again."

    Aries slowly raised her face, her expression emotionless, but her eyes were sincere.

    "I don''t mind, so long as the queen said, she will take responsibility for this inconvenience." Abel dawdled sciously, smirking evilly as he set his devious eyes on her.

    Aries simply cast him a cursory look before shifting her attention to Maximus. Thetter''s eyes still bore fury and were even more annoyed that she truly dared step in. He didn''t need her protection бк if that was what this was. However, right before his lips parted, a p was heard from the entrance of the conference, followed by a feminine voice.

    "My, myбн what a dilemma on the early period of the Summit."

 Chapter 763 Do Not Covet Whats Mine

    "My, myбн what a dilemma on the early period of the Summit."

    Everyone gradually set their eyes on the entrance, only to meet an imposing ''woman'' joining the conference hall.

    The moment Maximus''s eyesnded on the figure by the door, his anger was taken over with nothing but cold irritation.

    "It seemed a conflict had gone out of hand. Fortunately, my queen is here to settle the matters."

    The person shed everyone a smile, cing a hand across her t chest as she lowered her head.

    "It''s ate introduction, but allow me to present myself formally. My name is London Leviticus, the chief deputy of the summit." She uncoiled her back while preserving her smile. "My apologies for myte attendance. I was settling some matters, but now that I am here, I''ll take this from here."

    Not just Maximus, but Abel also glowered at the sight of London Leviticus.

    "Now, now, who is causing trouble in this sacred ce?" London beamed until her eyes were squinting.

    To everyone''s surprise, Maximus and Abel looked away from each other.

    "I demand a chair to sit on, or perhaps I can just sit on the queen''s chair and provide myp for her." Abel leisurely turned around, facing Aries to cleanse his eyes and alleviate his mood. Meanwhile, Maximus just clicked his tongue in annoyance before sitting down.

    "How boring," mumbled Maximus, crossing his arms as his frown progressed to deepen.

    With their immediate withdrawal from this matter, everyone бк even Aries, Ismael, and Veronika бк was stunned at how those two, specifically Maximus, backed down so quickly.

    "Oh?" London''s lips stretched, darting her eyes between Maximus and Abel''s back. "It seemed the misunderstanding had been settled even before I came?"

    "What is going on?" Ismael mumbled to himself.

    Up until just moments ago, Maximus was throwing a huge fit and even strangled a marshall. If not for Aries, everything would have been a mess, with no routes of return. Things weren''t settled бк at least, not yet.

    "Go." Aries, although surprised at the sudden calm that took over, didn''t dwell on it. Instead, she cast the royal knights a look. "Go to your barracks and do a thousandps. Reflect on your actions. I would gather all of you once things here are settled."

    The knights, who did nothing but follow Maximus''s orders, scrutinized Aries. Seeing her sharp countenance, the knights carefully yielded their swords and took a step back. They hung their heads low, not even casting Maximus a look to get his approval.

    Even if they pledged their hearts to Maximus, Aries was still the queen. If Maximus already kept quiet, that means the queen''s orders were absolute.

    "Oh, before you all leaveбн" London stopped everyone with a p. "... how about they undergo our disciplinary action?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Do not push your luck, viceroy." Aries raised her chin, maintaining her stony countenance. "These men are still under me. Even if they disregarded my orders, it should be me who should discipline them."

    She paused, looking around at the people around the table. "Since that is the case, I''d naturally take responsibility for their actions just now. We''ll have a wordter, viceroy."

    London''s lips stretched into an understanding smile, pleased at Aries''s attitude despite all that happened.

    "My respect for the queen just leaped to a hundred levels," mused London, nodding in understanding. "Then, this case is settled? If anyone is still displeased about it and hasints, please do so, so we can address it before resuming the important talks."

    Silence followed London''s remarks while thetter scanned the conference hall. Aries also swept her gaze across the rooms with those sharp eyes. However, it was obvious that there was another reason for this silence and not because no one had other concerns anymore.

    No one wanted to push their luck, after all.

    It was already good that this case was put to rest. Prolonging it with their ''petty''ints wouldn''t benefit anyone. It was not like they could kick out Maximus, especially since Aries had deemed it as a mere misunderstanding.

    "Since no one raised a follow-up concern, then we''d take it as a case closed." Pleased, London broke the silence. "However, we''d still impose fines and apology бк"

    "Don''t push your luck, that is my fiancee''sбн" Maximus repeated what Aries just said, stressing each syble to get his point across. "... I am not in the wrong and I won''t apologize. Ordering my people to retreat is already a consideration, even though some of my men lost their lives in vain."

    Abel let out a chuckle, shaking his head, only to poke the tip of Aries''s nose to get her attention.

    "Shameless isn''t it?" He grinned. "How can he just call someone else''s wife his bride just like that?"

    Aries bit her inner lower lips, stopping herself from speaking anything that would cause more chaos. The root problem between Abel and Maximus wasn''t resolved, but at least, the dilemma just now was.

    Maximus snickered, eyes glinting with malice. "How surprising, Emperor. Don''t you know she is currently the queen of the maind?"

    "But wasn''t she my empress before being a queen in this small kingdom?" Abel cocked his head to the side, eyes falling on Maximus''s contemptuous face. "I know the maind approved of polygamy. However, it is not the same in my empire. The rules of marriage are simple, and that was the husband must devote everything to their wife. If they ever separate, the husband must forfeit everything he had to his wife. Of course, there were conditions, but I will not bore you with the uses I had approved before going on a long vacation."

    "The bottom line isбн" Abel pushed himself from the table, facing Maximus for the first time squarely. "... don''t covet what''s mine, Maximus. You don''t want to anger me more than you already did."

    Just when everyone thought everything calmed down, the initial tension in the conference hall returned just as quickly. But this time, everyone felt literally suffocated after thest syble rolled out of Abel''s tongue. Only then did Aries notice that the inks on Abel''s body that would usually reach to his neck and peek over his cor were nowhere in sight.

    Only a few knew about those inks on Abel''s body that appeared more like body art; they were his countless seals.

 Chapter 764 ThenтАж Will You Take Them Off?

    London Leviticus let out a deep exhale, supporting his head. His fingers zeroing on his temple, having this slight headache at those two who were acting like boys in puberty, fighting over their crush. Although London couldn''t deny that this issue was far moreplicated than on the surface.

    ''What a headache, indeed.'' London snapped his eyes at the person sandwiched in this problem. ''Poor little Aries. The issue of the maind shouldn''t be her problem, but now she was the center of it.''

    "Abel," Aries called, but this time, her voice didn''t have a tinge of relief or softness. "Please, Your Majesty. Let''s resolve this personal issue privately."

    Abel blinked. "Sure."

    "Thank you." Aries heaved a sigh of relief, assuming he would stop pressing Maximus''s nerves so they could proceed with today''s meeting. But she was wrong.

    Just as Aries expressed her words of gratitude, Abel nted a hand on the surface of the table and hopped over it. The moment he stood beside her, Aries flinched, looking at him wide-eyed.

    "Let''s resolve it privately, darling." He shed her a smile, wiggling his brows teasingly.

    "Uh, Abelбн?" Aries trailed off as he suddenly swept her off of her feet, carrying her in his arms as if she weighed nothing. Her eyes shook, clutching his chest with instinct. She held her breath, stunned, gazing up at him only to see his mischievous grin.

    "Have you been eating, my love?" he asked yfully, ignoring the shocked gazes cast upon him. "It seemed you lost a lot of weight. I guess they weren''t feeding you a lot, huh?"

    "Put me down," she blurted out as her face turned red in embarrassment. She didn''t even know why she suddenly felt embarrassed; an old feeling she hadn''t felt for thest two years.

    "Huh? Are you going back on your words now, darling?" he scoffed before shaking his head, smirking deviously, and raising his gaze up at them. "Her Majesty and I will resolve our issue privately. So if you may excuse us."

    "Wait бк" London''s face contorted, watching Abel turn his back on them. Thetter didn''t even take a step, but instead leaped toward the open window.

    The windows in this newly established pce were quite big, so anyone from inside could enjoy the scenery it was surrounded by. Who would have thought someone would think of using it as a way to abduct someone?

    "That impertinentбн" Maximus''s voice shook in anger, springing up from his seat as he fixed his eyes on the open window. Through his gritted teeth, his voice thundered, "follow them!"

    Maximus didn''t idle inside the conference hall, storming out of this so-called sacred ce to follow Abel. No one stopped him as he walked away; no one would dare as their survival instinct told them to just stay still.

    "Ahhбн surely, he is the most mischievous of allбн" London shook her head in resignment, snapping his eyes as Maximus walked past him. Another sigh slipped past London''s lips, facing everyone left in the conference hall.

    "Well." He cleared her throat and shed them all a sweet smile. "Since the troublemakers were out to y, should the diligent ones continue the summit peacefully now?"

    Everyone slowly shifted their eyes full of disbelief back to London, wondering if they heard her correctly. Thetter offered them a shrug, feigning innocence with that bright smile stered on her face.

    *<novelnext></novelnext>

    *

    *

    Aries bounced slightly on the mattress where Abel suddenly threw her on. She propped her elbows against the mattress, lifting her head, searching for him with wide eyes. There, beside the bed, stood Abel, unbuttoning his dirty blouse in irritation.

    "Fiancee? He surely learned how to provoke me," heined, stopping from his actions as he quirked a brow. His eyes fell on her on the bed. "Yes?"

    Aries''s lips opened and closed, but her voice was stuck in her throat. She had many things to say, but all she could do for a moment was stare at him in shock.

    Just a moment ago, they were inside the conference hall where the summit was held. But now, they were inside a bedroom. She didn''t even have the leisure to react as he flew so fast, forcing her to hold on to him. But now that she got a grasp of what happened and the situation, her mind couldn''t help but crawl to her wild imagination.

    "Bed?" was the first word that came out of her lips.

    "Huh?"

    "You want to do it as soon as possible?" she blurted out, having these mixed emotions which weren''t all pleasant at that.

    Deep lines appeared in between his brows before his lips curled up into an amused smirk.

    "What do you mean to do it as soon as possible, darling?" he cocked his head to the side, pretending to not know what she meant. "I brought you here because it''s the closest room to where we came from, and the balcony was open."

    Her face turned red, pushing herself to sit up. "Abel, this is not the time to y around."

    "But I''m not ying around." Abel bent over, nting his hands on the surface of the mattress to look at her at eye level. "This is the first room that is nearest, and I want you to rest your feet. It seemed those things you are wearing are painful."

    He jerked his chin toward her ankle, making her set her eyes on it. The moment her gazended on her ankle, she pursed her lips, noticing the redness on her ankle caused by her heels. As realization dawned on her, she hung her head low to hide the slight embarrassment of her nasty assumptions.

    "You''re not wrong, though," he spoke after a minute, making her lift her head to see the solemness dominating his face. "All I can think of right now is ripping that dress and throwing everything on you from head to toe. I don''t like the way he dressed you like a doll, darling."

    Her breath hitched, holding his gaze but unable to say a word. The shock and all dilemmas that naturally followed her after he took her away from the summit gradually dissipated until all that mattered was the present.

    "Thenбн will you take them off?"

 Chapter 765 Looks Like Home

    Aries once lost control of her life and then regained it when someone offered a helping hand to her. It wasn''t a helping hand where she would be blessed and be cleansed of her sins, but it was the stained hand of the devil.

    However, that was the only helping hand that reached out to her at the time. Therefore, she epted it.

    Never in her wildest dreams that would be the most beautiful decision in her life. It might not be right in the eyes of others or even in the eyes of god, but it was the most stunning nightmare she would go back to over and over.

    Not only did Abel save her from the clutches of that diabolical crown prince of the Maganti Empire, but as well, he treated her better than she could have ever expected. Abel didn''t try to erase her painful past. Instead, the memories he created with her were more than the hell she went through.

    He returned the control she once lost, giving her the liberty to make decisions from the simplest things as choosing which dress to wear to the bigger decision as to modify thew. He showed him the beauty of life, even though he couldn''t see it himself.

    The life he sought, the way he wanted to be treated, and everything. Abel gave everything he couldn''t get to her. He gave his all without conditions.

    "All I can think of right now is ripping that dress and throwing everything on you from head to toe. I don''t like the way he dressed you like a doll, darling."

    How did he know? To survive all these years without him, she had to please Maximus in her own way. She might''ve chosen a different path and didn''t stay stubborn just like when she was held captive in the Maganti Empire, but Aries would make her "husband-to-be" happy by letting him bomb her with gifts and dress the way he wanted.

    She hated it, but if she could stomach it, she had no qualms. The dress wasn''t just the problem, but how a simple dress would remind her of the shackles binding her to Maximus.

    "Thenбн will you take them off?" she breathed out, clutching her chest while keeping her eyes on him. "Can you?"

    Abel was quiet, staring deep into her eyes. "You can''t do it on your own?"

    "I can''t."

    "Why?"

    "I told youбн" Aries pursed her lips into a thin line. "... the problem lies deeper than the surface."

    There were no words needed with her seemingly vague remarks. He didn''t ask further questions as well, swallowing down the frustrating tension down his throat.

    "How frustratingбн" he whispered, reaching for her ne on her. "... that I can''t even touch you even when you stand bare right now. I have to restrain myself just because my libido isn''t the most important right now."

    The second those words rolled out of his tongue, the ne broke apart just after a slight pull. There was no malicious intent in his eyes, taking bits and pieces of the fancy essories on her before using the sharpness of his fingers to rip her dress.

    Everything on her was slowly being taken away one by one until her body was left bare. Aries kept her eyes low, watching how her sleeves fell off her shoulders to her wrists. When he was done, she lifted her gaze back to him.

    "That night two years agoбн" she trailed off as a finger pressed on her lips.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Let''s take a bath. I smell."

    Aries bit her inner lower lip, watching him sh her a short smile. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, nodding in agreement.

    With that being said, Aries held onto his hand as he led her to the bathroom. On their way, she couldn''t help but look around the empty hallway. It didn''t need a long of thinking when she had seen such strange and old interior design.

    This ceбн looked exactly like their home in the Haimirich Empire. It was the same replica as the Forbidden Mansion.

    ''It felt like home,'' she whispered in her head, setting her gaze on his back. Her expression turned soft, eyes falling on the hand that was holding hers. ''I hope this isn''t just another dream.''

    Having experienced nightmares and peeking into life''s different routes, Aries had a clear line between vision and reality. Except for this one. That was because every time she would hallucinate about him, Aries would always delude herself it was real until the vision or dream ends.

    Hence, no matter how realistic the turn of events was, she wasn''t fully sure if this was just one of her wishful thinking. She hoped this was real, though.

    *

    *

    *

    No one was in this mansion to run the two a warm bath. But they managed and were now sitting in the same tub. Aries hugged her knees with her back against the other side of the tub, eyes fixed on the man opposite her.

    "I left Haimirich without even taking a proper bath." Abel ran his fingers through his damp hair, quirking a brow as he noticed her fixed gaze. "Hmm?"

    Aries just blinked, resting her chin on top of her knees. She didn''t say anything, but instead just stared at him without ever looking away, not even once. She would even stop herself from blinking, but even if she would lose, she would blink as fast as she could.

    "Hmm?" Abel let out another hum, moving closer and cutting down the distance between them. He lowered his head until they were at eye level. "What is it, darling?"

    She didn''t speak immediately, but when her lips parted, a seemingly random remark slipped past her lips.

    "Two nights ago, the night was especially chilly and silent. Even the fire in the furnace isn''t enough to give me the warmth that I seek," she said quietly, holding those beautiful pair of eyes that were mirroring her face. "But I fell asleep peacefully. Do you know why?"

    Abel tilted his head to the side, witnessing how her lips curled up into a short smile.

    "You were there with me," she continued. "You kept me warm."

 Chapter 766 I Understand, And Its Alright.

    "You were there with me. You kept me warm."

    Two nights ago, Abel wasn''t even halfway through his way to reach the maind. He wasn''t there to keep her warm. However, what she said only proved reality barely sank into her.

    Another shallow breath slipped past his lips, lifting his hand from underwater to touch her cheek with his fingertips.

    "I can touch you," he said, only to see her smile slightly. "So you can also touch me inside here, huh?"

    He reached for her temple and tapped it, making her nod slightly. He wasn''t surprised, though. Her witch was Maleficent, and if Maleficent was not so powerful, he wouldn''t even leave this repugnance in his mouth just by her presence.

    "This is a dilemma, isn''t it?" he asked, smiling helplessly. "What should we do now?"

    "Like always?"

    His brows rose as she lifted her hand, showing her palm to him. Using the other hand, she reached for his hand, guiding it to her other hand. Aries slowly slipped her fingers in between the gaps of his fingers, curling it ever so slowly.

    "Like this," she said, looking back at him with a smile.

    Abel remained quiet as he assessed the smile on her face.

    ''So this had been what you were doing, huh?'' he sighed inwardly, but he was not any better.

    Day and nightбн he lived in those memories where she was. That world was hell even though no one could physically hurt him. Just her absence alone was enough torture for him; to live in a world without her was the true nightmare.

    Abel wrapped his slender fingers around her hand, guiding it to his face until the back of her hand was resting on his lean cheek.

    "Better?" he asked, pressing his cheek on the back of her hand with a smile, eyes fixed on her.

    Her eyes softened, lifting her other hand to caress his other cheek.

    "You''re still beautiful," she whispered, still mesmerized by that sinful beauty. "You don''t hate me?"

    "Why would I?"

    "Abel." Aries sighed, dropping her hand on top of her bent knees. "You know what happened two years ago бк"

    A finger pressed on her soft lips, stopping her attempt from mentioning that night two years ago. She frowned, gazing up at him with dissatisfaction. Aries practiced how she would exin everything to him and even how she would beg him to forgive her бк just in case. Although she was nervous herself, she wanted to get done with it.

    But every time she would muster enough courage, he would stop her from saying anything further. The answer to this question came almost immediately as she remarked.

    "I understand," was all that he said with a subtle smile. "You don''t have to go through the hassle of details. I understand and it was alright."

    Understand? And it was alright?<novelnext></novelnext>

    Her breath slowed down as her eyes slightly shook. "What?" she blurted out under her breath.

    "You don''t have to tell me or apologize or exin yourself. I already understand and it''s alright," he repeated, scrambling his words but his point was the same. "Don''t beat yourself about it."

    Aries opened and closed her lips but no words managed to escape her mouth. All she could do for a moment was stare at him, listening to the thickyers around her heart break,yer byyer. The corner of her eyes slowly turned red as a thinyer of tears coated them, making her bright orbs gleam beautifully.

    "What''s with that look, darling?" he humored with a weak chuckle, nting his hand on her head, causing it to lower. Abel simply ruffled her hair as if she was a kid. "Did you think I''d be angry and resort to violence? You break my heart, darling. It seemed your habit of seeing the worst in me hadn''t changed."

    Another helpless sigh slipped past his curled lips, ruffling her hair more gently. It had always been like that. Aries doesn''t always see the good in him; matter of fact, she would always assume he would do the worse. The reason she would always look so surprised whenever he would exercise kindness.

    Quite strange, that people fall for those who would see the good in them. But it was the opposite for Abel. Aries often sees the bad in him, but still loved and epted him, regardless.

    She was crazy; his crazy.

    Meanwhile, Aries kept her eyes on her distorted image on the surface of the water. Her vision slowly turned blurry as tears formed in her eyes, biting her bottom lip to stop herself from crying aloud.

    [ I understand, and it was alright. ]

    Such a simple response that she had never considered he would say. Yet, her heart felt utterly at ease. All the crazy overthinking and countless guessing of how they would talk about that night two years ago was ultimately resolved with just those words.

    "Are you crying?" Abel asked, noticing how her shoulders and back trembled. His brows rose, flinching when Aries suddenly raised her head.

    Her face already turned red as she was chewing her lower lip. Tears naturally stained her flustered cheek, keeping quiet despite the presence of tears.

    Seeing her reaction, which was quite new and adorable in his eyes, Abel was rendered speechless momentarily. When a minute passed, a shallow breath slipped past his lips as he shook his head.

    "Don''t cry," he said out of instinct, only to flinch when she yelled.

    "But you told me I can cry now!" her voice was louder than she expected, forcing her voice out of her tight throat.

    "Ahhбн haha." Abelughed, pulling her slender arms closer to his body. "Right, right. I think I said something like that. Then I''ll lend you my chest to release your frustrations."

    Abel kept her in the safety of his embrace, spreading his leg on either side of the tub, confining her in his arms and legs. His hand stroked her back, listening to her muffled sobs until she was crying out loud like a child.

    "Wahбн!"

    "There, there." He patted her back, chuckling as she started huping. This was probably the first time she cried so hard and so loud, like a child, but he didn''t mind.

    Abel leaned the side of his head against hers. His expression was soft as a subtle smile turned up on his face.

    "We''re together now, Aries," he whispered as ayer of tears coated his eyes. "No one will take you away from me again. Not that man on the throne, and definitely not Maleficent anymore."

 Chapter 767 The Feeling Was Mutual

    What is life?

    That question hovered over Abel''s head countless times for years. He didn''t get the answer until Aries came into his life.

    Lifeбн was Aries.

    His answer simply grew solid during his time in the spirit world. Ironically, that world was hers, yet she wasn''t even there. He didn''t mind being trapped inside that world if she was there, but s, no matter what he does, she was beyond his reach.

    It was reassuring she longed for him just as much as he did, and that was the only important thing for him. There was no need for apologies or exnation; he understood Aries had to do what she had to do even if it meant sacrificing a few years without him.

    Now they were together. He wouldn''t let others steal her for even just a day.

    "Aren''t you worried?" Abel inquired, lying on his side, eyes on the opposite person on the same bed. "I took you away from there."

    "You''re here," replied Aries, sporting a short smile, using her arm as her head cushion. "If you''re not worried, why would I?"

    "But you were worried about him when you first met him."

    "I did." She fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly, recalling how busy she was preparing for Maximus. "But I know him now."

    "So?"

    "I''m afraid of him anymore, Abel."

    "Told you." His lips curled up into a cunning smirk. "He''s pathetic."

    Aries held his gaze silently, not agreeing or refuting it. After taking a shower, both simplyy on the bed, lying on their sides while facing each other. It wasn''t even nighttime yet, but they were already ready to sleep.

    "Don''t you hate me anymore?" she asked after the prolonged silence, watching him shake his head mildly.

    "Never did."

    "You hated me."

    "Not you. It was a natural response to the witch within you." A shallow breath slipped past his nostrils, raising his hand to cup her face. "Staying in that world forced me to get used to it. I think it''s the same for you."

    It was.

    During Maleficent''s awakening, Abel was certain Aries would kill him. He might share the same urge, knowing Maleficent''s power posed a threat to his existence. It was a natural reaction for two powerful beings who were capable of killing each other.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Funnily enough, Abel had searched for many ways to die in the past. Matter of fact, he had killed himself countless times. But when the time that a being who could kill him rose out of thin air, he got scared. The only excuse he had was that even though he didn''t mind dying in Aries''s hand, his greed to create more memories with her took precedence over his pride.

    Aries''s reasoning might be different, but it was almost the same. She didn''t want to kill him. She didn''t even want him to die. If her sullied hands would take another life, she''d take hers instead of his.

    "Even nowбн" Aries reached out until her fingertips were touching his lean cheek. "... I can feel this sense of enmity in my heart. Yet, I''ve grown used to it."

    "The feeling was mutual."

    Being separated from each other for two years turned out to be just the right decision. With Abel in Maleficent''s world, he got used to her presence, her scent, and everything. Aries was the same. Since he was in her world, she got used to his evil aura.

    "What do you think he will do now?" she asked once again, changing the topic to something else. "Maximus. What do you think he will do now, Abel?"

    "The Forbidden Forest is the Grimsbanne''s territory. He steps foot here, and I''ll kill him. I hope you hadn''t changed thatw."

    "I didn''t." Her lips pressed into a thin line, aware of thew he was talking about.

    The maind was just like any other nation that hadws to keep its orders. Aries went through all of them when she arrived on the maind. There were manyws and practices she found interesting, but considering the citizens of the maind were vampires, most of them made a lot of sense.

    However, what piqued her interest the most was the feww regarding this Forbidden Forest. The Forbidden Forest was said to be the Grimsbanne''s territory. Although this forest took up at least one-third of the maind, even the royals didn''t take interest in it.

    Not just that, but anyone who died in the Forbidden Forest was considered a case closed. Thisw could be taken advantage of, such as a person luring the person he despised in this ce. However, ording to records, there was a case like that happened in the past.

    The problem was that even though the perpetrator seeded in silencing his enemy; he failed to leave the Forbidden Forest alive. It wouldn''t matter if someone died in this ce had a title or even a royal; their deaths wouldn''t be investigated.

    In simple words, if Abel killed Maximus in the Forbidden Forest, he would walk out of this ce freely. No one woulde at him.

    "I wonderбн why you didn''t?" he queried, raising his brows in curiosity. "It''s unlike you to keep such a strangew to exist."

    "I also wonder why?" she let out a weak chuckle, shrugging. "Initially, I nned to change it or vanquish itpletely. But Iбн forgot?"

    Abel chuckled. "I guess you had a busy time."

    "I did." Her smile faded, staring at him silently once again. "I didn''t have anything to do. I was bored without you around."

    "The feeling is always mutual."

    Both of them silently stared at each other as if they were afraid either of them would vanish. There might be a good result that happened with their separation, but there were also deleterious effects. One of them was this constant fear they would get separated again, or that this was all nothing but a beautiful dream, and they would wake up with their recurring nightmare called reality.

 Chapter 768 Who Is London Leviticus?

    Meanwhileбн

    SLAM!

    Maximus mmed his hands on the surface of the table, splitting it in half. His eyes glowed in bright red, grinding his teeth at the person across the broken desk.

    "What do you mean you can''t go inside the Forbidden Forest?" he seethed, making the knight''s heart rattle in his chest.

    "Your Highness, the Duke of Luvic бк"

    "Your Highness, it is not right tosh out at a poor knight who simply ryed the reports." The knight was cut off when a voice from behind him resonated in the chambers.

    The knight looked back and stepped to the side to make way for the noble duke of the House Leviticus. He bowed slightly to show respect.

    "You should go." London Leviticus nced at the knight and then arched a brow when Maximus roared.

    "London Leviticus, do not push your luck," warned Maximus through his gritted teeth, watching the man pretending to be a female look back at him. "You and your house are still alive, thanks to me."

    "The House Leviticus will always be grateful to Your Eminence."

    "Then if that is clear, tell your people to retreat and stop hindering me from getting my wife back."

    "I''m afraid I can''t do that, Your Highness."

    "London Leviticus!"

    "You are giving that man in that mansion the reason for carnage, Your Highness. Even if you are the highest person on the maind and could practically do whatever you pleased, you are making a mistake. I am simply trying to stop you from making one." London''s countenance slowly grew solemn, staring at the fuming Maximus. "After all, most of the royal knights were nobles from different houses across the Maind. Sending them in the Forbidden Forest despite knowing Abel Grimsbanne is there only means angering more nobles."

    Maximus let out a scoff, in disbelief at London''s argument. He was the king, and thus, how dare he threaten him with this petty excuse?

    "You got this throne this time through a revolt, Your Highness," London continued in a knowing tone. "Many of the previous king''s people were displeased with your ession to the throne. On top of that, you had executed many loyal subjects, such as the members of some particr noble ns."

    London shook his head mildly. "The maind wasn''t what it used to be, Your Eminence. Thest thing you need is to recover the Queen, who was forced to ept this title. After all, she wille back to you whether or not she wants to."

    "Our House Leviticus will always be grateful to you, and thus, I had mustered a lifetime of courage to stop my king," he added with conviction in his tone. "What you need right now are allies, Your Majesty. Especially, since the Grimsbanne''s will not sit still anymore."

    Maximus''s jaw tightened, keeping his gaze on London Leviticus. Everything London said was mildly infuriating, but they were facts.

    "I am their king," he stressed, but this time, his temperament calmed down. "From then and now, and yet, that useless bunch thinks I am someone who stole something that isn''t rightfully mine."

    Maximus kicked the broken piece of the table to the wall, breaking it into smithereens.

    "It''s all their fault," he breathed out sharply. "Those people in the Forbidden Forestбн it''s all their fault. I shouldn''t have let a single one of them step foot in thisnd."<novelnext></novelnext>

    While Maximus threw a huge fit, breaking everything in sight, London stayed in the same spot. His eyes followed Maximus''s figure with a tinge of coldness underneath his eyes.

    ''He should''ve med hisck of patience,'' thought Leviticus inwardly, mentally sighing. ''If he had nned everything since a long time ago, he should''ve waited for more instead of getting riled up by Marse. Now, he''s just ming everyone except the real culprit for why things went south.''

    In London''s opinion, Maximus''s situation was his fault and partly Marse''s. But then again, what was even more shocking was Maximus''s trust in Marse. Trusting that woman and hoping she would actually help was suicide.

    But then again, London wasn''t the person to talk to. After all, London, whose intention was unclear even to his biggest ally, the Queen.

    Which leaves many people with a question: who was London Leviticus?

    *******

    [ Forbidden Forest ]

    "It seemed you were an acquaintance of that man with an appearance of a woman." Abel brought Aries back from her trance, poking the tip of her nose.

    The two were still lyingzily on the bed, talking about whatever they could broach.

    "Mhm." Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, recalling how she met this mysterious noble vampire named London Leviticus. "When I arrived on the maind, he requested a private audience with me. I was about to refuse, but then Suzanne told me something that piqued my interest."

    She lifted her gaze at Abel. "She бк I mean, he told me he can provide shelter to my brother and keep him safe. The rest after our first meeting was history."

    "Ahhбн" his replycked any interest, making her brows raise.

    "All he asked for in return is for me to host this world summit," she added despite hisck of interest. "He wanted to establish an international organization, after all. And I helped him with that while he kept my brother safe."

    "More than that she-man''s agenda. You locked the Marquess as well?" His lips stretched in amusement.

    The conflicted expression that resurfaced on Aries''s face told everything Abel wanted to know. Aries kept everyone away, even her brother. She didn''t need to exin, knowing Maximus would stop at nothing to put a leash on her.

    "Anyway, I still don''t trust him." Aries cleared her throat. "I''ve known him for two years now, but somehow, I feel like I still don''t know him."

    A shallow breath slipped past her lips. "Abel, it seemed you know London. Who is he?"

    "You mean London?" Abel arched a brow. "He is not a special person. Just someoneбн he is Isaiah''s cousin and someone who hated Conan to the core."

    "Ahhбн so he isбн" Her expression stiffed while her pupils went wide. "Did you say he is Sir Isaiah''s cousin?"

    "Mhm. I did, and also Maximus''s first loveбн before he knew London is actually a guy."

 Chapter 769 How Nice Of Him

    "Will you stay here?" Aries asked after some time of silence.

    "Will you?" Abel returned.

    She pressed her lips into a thin line, shrugging mildly. "Who knows?"

    "Can you leave this ce?" he asked despite having an answer in his head.

    "Not yet," came out a hushed voice. "There''s a lot of things I must do as the queen, Abel."

    "I seeбн"

    "Will you wait for me?"

    "No."

    A slight frown instantly dominated her face, staring into his eyes squarely.

    "I won''t wait for you, but I will apany you. After all, Haimirich is still sleeping, and my sister will make sure it will stay the same for the time being," exined Abel calmly. "Until you cane home, I''ll stay wherever you are."

    "Your sisterбн"

    "She''s the one who woke me up."

    "She did?"

    "You don''t seem surprised, darling." His brow arched, observing her odd reaction. "Normally, you will be very enthusiastic about my sisters. But now, you don''t seem to have any."

    "me Marse." Aries let out a short and dryugh. "I was the queen for two years, Abel. What makes you think I didn''t study my subject? Especially those I was told to be wary of."

    "Trust me. Mathilda is not something you should be wary ofбн unless you nned to implicate her in whatever scheme you are cooking in your head."

    "What if that''s my n?" she returned almost immediately, curiosity swirling in her eyes. "What will you do Abel?"

    ? "Wellбн" Abel shrugged and then added, as if he didn''t need a lot of thinking for his answer. "It''s obvious. Just tell me when you want to bury her. I''ll prepare our family graveyard for her."

    Aries let out a weak chuckle. "I''m kidding."

    "I''m not, darling." His expression was solemn. "Twisted as it may sound, but if killing Mathilda will give you peace of mind, then I''ll kill her for you."

    A moment of silence enveloped the two of them, holding each other''s gaze. Normally, Aries would lecture him regarding family values. However, she couldn''t really me him. Abel was giving his hundred-ten percent of trust; matter of fact, he had already handed his life to her.

    Whether Aries would make him miserable or live a life of bliss was a decision Aries had to decide.

    "I can''t make you kill your sister." A bitter smile turned up on her face. "Being the queen for two years, I heard a lot about her. Many say they only heard about her but never saw her face; others, who had met her at least once, could only say she was a quietdy who enjoyed living in solitude."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "However, many people had a lot to say to Mathilda''s nephew and Sunny''s father, Samael La Crox," she continued, snapping her eyes up. "There were terriblements about him, but there were also who could say nothing but praise because of his stunning works. I read a few of his stories and I must say I was a fan. Apparently, he wasn''t on the maind when I came."

    "Did you meet him as well?" she asked out of pure curiosity. "I heard they had gone missing for the past two years. Fabian told me many people were missing for the past two years and not just the entire Haimirich Empire."

    "They were with Tilly," he replied, keeping his answer short and simple. "I left them in Haimirich hours after I woke up from my slumber, so I''m not as well-informed as you."

    Aries smiled. "That sounds like something you''d do."

    "Can you me me?" he fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly. "I longed to be with you for the past two years, but now that I am back under the same sky as you, I don''t see the reason I have to wait longer than necessary."

    Abel reached for her face, brushing her cheek with his thumb. "I can ask about their dilemmater. What''s important is that you''re now within my reach."

    A pinkish blush appeared on her cheek, nudging her cheek against his palm. Aries held the back of his hand that was touching her face, moving her head slightly to nt a soft kiss on his palm.

    "Let this be a reality," she whispered, reopening her eyes and meeting his gaze instantly. "If this is another dream, I will be very sad."

    "Trust me. When you wake up again, I''ll still be here with you."

    "If I will wake up." A faint mischief shone in her eyes, smiling. "I might stay awake for the next seven days."

    "Myбн will you even function properly without sleep?"

    "You''ll be surprised to know what I can do, Abel."

    The side of his lips curled up into an amused smirk as desire flickered across his eyes. Since the time they arrived in this ce, the two of them didn''t talk about anything "important." Instead, they indulged in menial and shallow discussions, expressing how they missed each other from time to time.

    Aries didn''t even n to bore him with all the details and dilemmas stuck in the back of her head. She wanted to rest; she needed rest. At least, for some time, she could have it with him.

    "I''m surprised how clean this ce was." Abel broke the silence between them. "Did you order your people to clean this mansion and the surrounding area?"

    "Fabian is the only person who can enter this Forbidden Forest," answered Aries. "I ordered some people to help him, but he did most of the job. He likes cleaning, and I confirmed that after getting stuck with him for the past two years."

    "Ahhбн Fabian, huh?" Abel smacked his lips. "His master willeбн"

    Knock knock

    Abel trailed off, gazing at the door where the knock came from.

    "This is Fabian, the head butler of the manor. I apologize for interrupting your time together, but you have a guest. A guest for the both of you."

    Aries furrowed her brows, ncing at the shut door before setting her eyes back to Abel. She didn''t sense anyone from Maximus''s people approaching this mansion, but she did sense Fabian''s presence minutes ago. It was the same for Abel, but unlike the surprise in her eyes, he smirked.

    "How nice of him to not open the door." He looked back at her, making the lines between her brows deepened. "Shall we wee this guest, darling?"

 Chapter 770 Labyrinth

    Aries made difficult decisions in the past two years; one of them was agreeing to what Maximus wanted, and the other was keeping Dexter away from her. Her only condition to London Leviticus is to make sure Dexter will be safe. Dexter was still unconscious when she admitted it to the House Leviticus, and she didn''t hear anything about him since.

    There were times London would mention her brother, but Aries would stop him. Obviously, she was overjoyed when she heard Dexter had regained consciousness, but then again, she didn''t have the leisure to rush to him.

    In other words, aside from Abel, Isaiah, and many other people who were close to her heart, Dexter also didn''t see or talk to her for the past two years. One could imagine his frustration knowing she was just around, but there was no way to approach her.

    Thus, exined the surprise on Aries''s face, standing face to face with one of the people she missed the most.

    Dexter.

    Aries gazed at him from head to toe, holding her breath. Her heart thudded nervously and in relief against her chest, opening and closing her mouth, but her voice was stuck in her throat. Ayer of tears coated her eyes, biting her inner bottom lip to stop unnecessary tears froming out.

    "Dani," Dexter called under his breath, gazing at her from head to toe. "There were many things I want to say бк even I want to scold you. Howeverбн"

    Dexter trailed off, forcing a smile on his face while spreading his arms wide open.

    "Will you just stand there?" he breathed out, raising his brows.

    A deep exhale escaped her lips as a tear rolled down her cheek.

    "Brother," she whispered, watching him nod reassuringly. Aries mustered all the courage she could, skipping her steps toward him.

    "I''m sorry," were the words that escaped her mouth, throwing herself into Dexter''s embrace.

    At the same time, Dexter whispered the same words, "sorry," as he embraced her tightly.

    The things Aries wanted to apologize for were countless: making decisions and choosing to fight all alone. Meanwhile, Dexter med himself that his sister had to be in a situation where she had to make such a difficult decision.

    If only Dexter was careful, he wouldn''t fall unconscious in the ambush that nearly killed him. If he kept his promise and returned to her, they wouldn''t have the current dilemma.

    Yet, despite that, they had stored many things to tell each other, but nothing of those was heard. All they did was embrace, and feel each other''s warmth with their hearts beating against each other''s chest, telling each other they were still alive.

    Meanwhile, Abel crossed his arms, watching the two embrace each other. He crossed his arm under his chest, shaking his head.

    "Same,'' he thought, thinking that Dexter''s reason for holding back his words and everything was because they were still alive. And while they live, as long as their hearts were breathing, and they were breathing, they could mend whatever was broken.

    It wasn''t the end of the world yet. And thus, his reason he didn''t need Aries to go through the pain of exining.

    "I heard a funny rumor on my way here," Abel spoke quietly and calmly when he sensed a presence behind him. "I am unsure what to feel about it, Fabian."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Abel looked back, only to see a butler standing five steps from behind him. Fabian, as usual, had this smile on his face that made his eyes squint like lines.

    "Iбн prepared an early dinner. My queen hadn''t eaten anything the entire day because of the summit," said Fabian, purposely ignoring Abel''s remarks. "It''s best to serve it while hot."

    Abel opened his mouth, only to close them again.

    "Hmmm." He hummed a tune, looking around the lobby of the mansion. "This ce changed."

    "I believe aside that this ce is now brighter and has less dust, it''s the same interior."

    "No, not that." Abel shook his head, looking around once again. "This isn''t Aries''s or Maximusбн this strange aura around this mansionбн it wasn''t Mathilda''s as well."

    "Ahhбн that''s an ability of the master''s stable boy," Fabian exined with the same smile. "If you heard of the divine weapons which I am certain you had, then this mansion is blessed with a divine weapon called Labyrinth."

    "Labyrinth?"

    "You can say that ability is a tricky one. It protects the tenants of the mansion from an intruder. In simple words, even if King Maximus barged in here, it will take a while for him to find my queen or anyone. It changes the paths and rooms of each door," Fabian summarized, giving Abel a quick exnation of this mansion, since Abel hadn''t been in this ce since he went out of the maind.

    "It''s good that this mansion recognized you. I can only think that is because Lady Tilly and my master have almost the same scent as you," he continued, opening his squinting eyes ever so slowly. "However, one will get lost in it if not careful."

    "Just like abyrinth, huh?"

    "Just like abyrinth."

    "Interesting." Abel rocked his head in understanding, running his eyes across the mansion that he replicated in the Haimirich Empire. The only difference was that the replica of this mansion in Haimirich was more gloomy бк it was just as it appeared before he left the maind.

    But now, those people he met after he woke up in his slumber lived in this ce. Therefore, it was not surprising that this ce appeared to be livelier despite its tenants being away.

    "That also means it can protect you." Abel snapped his eyes back to Fabian, arching a brow at the hint thetter''s tone gave away. "I fulfilled our non-verbal promise, Your Majesty. You came back, and she is still alive."

    Abel lifted his chin while the side of his lips curled up into a smirk. "It''s rare for a human to fulfill his promise. I''d say this is the first after a long time. Fret not, you don''t have to worry now."

    Abel cocked his head back and nced at Aries and Dexter.

    "We''ll talkter. For now, all I want is to have a meal with my wife and my brother-inw."

 Chapter 771 If This Was A Dream, Dont Wake Her Up.

    "A perfect hors d''oeuvre for the perfectdy."

    Aries nced up and smiled at Fabian while thetter served her appetizers for tonight''s early dinner.

    "Fabian," she called softly. "Why didn''t you tell me?"

    Fabian kept his smile with his eyes squinting. "I wasбн busy, Your Majesty."

    "Busy preparing this feast?" her eyes glossed over the table and the feast Fabian made himself. "One thing was for sure. There were no other people in this mansion other than the four of us."

    "Let the butler do his job, darling. It was already nice of him to be this prepared," Abel chimed in humorously.

    "Too prepared, I must add. Even Gustav would need at least a week." Dexter slightly scrunched his face. There was no way this was done in a hurry; everything was prepared and perfect as if it took Fabian a month''s preparation for this day.

    "I used to oversee a duchy''s residence," exined Fabian, standing stiffly three steps from Aries''s chair. His arm hovered in front of his abdomen with a cloth draped over it. "With a spontaneous person such as my lord, I had to be prepared at all times. Having just a few days or hours shouldn''t be an excuse."

    "How niceбн" Abel let out a deep exhale. "I should''ve met you earlier. Come. Join us."

    "I''m afraid I will have to refuse your offer, Your Majesty. I have an errand to attend. There were many other things in the mansion to repair before my masteres home."

    Aries''s lips parted but ended up shutting herself up.

    "Will you be alright?" she asked, changing what she initially wanted to tell him. "It will be no surprise if the Forbidden Forest is now surrounded by Maximus people. If they sighted even your shadow, they will hurt you."

    "How sweet." Fabian''s countenance brightened up. "Do not worry about me, my queen. Had I ever done to make you doubt me?"

    "I''m just saying, but very well, take care of your way."

    "Rest assured, I will return in one piece." Fabian beckoned a neck bow before lifting his eyes at Abel on the seat beside Aries, and at Dexter across from Aries. "May you enjoy your reunion. Be careful around. You might get lost."

    With that being said, Fabian ced his palm across his chest once again, bidding them farewell before sauntering off. Dexter kept his eyes on Fabian''s back, shaking his head sideways.

    "I''ve seen him visit London a couple of times," said Dexter, picking up the cutlery to enjoy the feast. This was his first meal with his sister. Hence, he wanted to enjoy it rather than dwell on other things. "The both of them get along well. I now understand why."

    "Fabian is a strange man, indeed, but also reliable," Aries mused with a smile. "Thanks to him, my life within the castle walls had been bearable."

    She paused, shifting her eyes to Abel. "Thanks to him, Abel was able to enter the maind with no problem."

    Abel blinked and smile. "Let''s dig in. Fabian told me it''s best to eat while the food is hot. I haven''t had any decent meal бк well, my nephew''s wife was a great cook as well."

    "You met your family?" Dexter raised his brows, only to realize it probably had something to do with Abel''s awakening. "Rightбн silly of me to assume how you have gotten out of that world is because of Isaiah."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Well, Isaiah couldn''t take me out of the spirit world, but I stillmend him for protecting the empire while I was away."

    "That sounds like something he would do." Dexter rocked his head while slicing through the meat. "I don''t have much any inquiry about the empire. Whether or not I want to hear any updates, London would suddenly bother me with all sorts of information."

    "London is a nice guy." Aries smacked her lips, thinking about this particr noble she met on the maind. "It''s a surprise that he was Sir Isaiah''s cousin."

    "Darling, even if they were cousins, I''m certain they only met at least once or a few times all these years," Abelmented, switching his tes with hers so she could just enjoy the sliced meat without exerting little effort. "I don''t think Isaiah is just as fond of London as thetter shows."

    "He?"

    Aries and Abel raised their brows, turning their heads in Dexter''s direction. Thetter had this equal puzzlement and surprise stered on his face.

    "What are you two saying?" asked Dexter in a nk tone. "Isn''t London a girl?"

    From head to toe, and even London''s dressing, one could tell London was a woman. The reason Dexter was baffled by the two of them was that they kept addressing London Leviticus as a man.

    "Youбн don''t know?" her voice faltered, raising her brows innocently. "London is a man, brother."

    "My, my. Don''t tell me you developed some romantic feelings for him, Marquess?" Abel teased with a devious smirk. "Although I presume nothing nasty had happened between you two since you''d know he is a man if you only took off his clothes, just like what I did."

    "..."

    For a moment, Dexter could only dart his eyes between Aries and Abel. Both of them were sitting across from Dexter thus, he could see the slight conflict in his sister''s eyes and mischief in Abel''s.

    "All this timeбн" Dexter hung his head low as his tone dropped a new level of coldness. "... I''ve been holding back, thinking London was a girl."

    His eyes glinted with fury, gripping the cutlery until his fist trembled. The discovery that London was a male all along was something that made him feel betrayed and cheated.

    "If only I know he was a guy, I would''ve at least punched him in the face." Dexter breathed out, raising his head while grinding his teeth angrily.

    Meanwhile, Aries pressed her lips into a thin line before casting Abel a helpless look. Thetter, however, enjoyed the sight before him.

    ''Wellбн'' Aries peeled her eyes from Abel to the sliced meat on her te. A subtle smile turned up on her face while her eyes softened. ''... this reminds me of the life we used to have. It feels nice.''

    Before Maximus''s arrival, their life was almost normal and peaceful. No matter how tiring their duties as the empress, the emperor, and the marquess, there were days they would sit at the same table just to talk about anything but serious discussion.

    If this was a dreamбн she didn''t want to wake up anymore.

 Chapter 772 A Beautiful Yet Thorny Flower

    The three (Aries, Abel, and Dexter) discussed anything but important things. It was as if they didn''t get separated for the past two years. In the beginning, the atmosphere was still a little stiff, but over time, Aries was able to loosen up.

    For the past two years, Aries finallyughed until she was tearing up. It was an emotion she thought she had once lost, but it seemed there was just nothing funny in the past two years. They didn''t even lose topics, hopping from one topic to another, catching up until the sky turned darker and darker.

    "Today, the summitmenced." Dexter cleared his throat, swallowing down the wine. "Will you just ditch it entirely?"

    Abel shrugged, casting Aries a knowing look. "Depends on her decision."

    "I can''t." Aries sighed, staring at the winess in her hand. "No matter what, I am still the current queen of the maind. Therefore, I had to do my duties."

    "Any particr reason for that?" Dexter leaned back, arching his brow. "I don''t think is just purely because you feel responsible."

    Aries rocked her head, keeping quiet for a moment. This was probably the first important discussion they had, and she was aware her brother was simply asking out of in curiosity.

    "It''s true that I have no emotional attachment to the maind. However, there were certain things I can do as the queen. Although it was Maximus''s n to establish the maind as a legal country in this world, it wasn''t just a one-sided n. I also want the maind to get recognized."

    "And why is that?" Dexter''s follow-up question was quick, but this time, Abel was the first to answer.

    "Have you gone asinine after being stuck with a she-male?" Abel snickered, bringing a frown to Dexter''s face. "Making the maind known is a good way for all the other kingdoms to grow wary of them. I am absolutely horrified that I have to exin this to you, but binding the maind with internationalw will keep them all at bay."

    "That is right." Aries nodded. "It was one of the reasons I hosted this summit. To establish the maind as a country known to the rest of the world and bring awareness of the existence of vampires. The other reason was for this world organization to rise up to power."

    Politics were always aplicated game to y. However, this was Aries''s forte. It might be a futile attempt, but if the majority were aware of the existence of vampires and other creatures, humans wouldn''t just live in fear.

    Only the unknown was something humans fear, after all. Moreover, she could say, at least, she tried.

    "This world organization, huh?" Dexter rocked his head, already aware of this organization London proposed and Aries approved. "However, I don''t see any reason for it to help your situation."

    "It''s not meant to help me get out of my situation, brother." Aries sported a subtle smile. "After being the crown princess of thend of Rikhill and the Maganti Empire, and then being an empress of the Haimirich Empire, I realized something important."

    She lowered her eyes, watching her distorted reflection as she swirled the wine mildly.

    "Things such as political disputes and international discourtesy which lead to war and other problems don''t affect those in power that much. Innocent people suffer because of the men in power, and even when I can just point the me at those royalties and noblesбн I can''t. After all, theck of information was partly at fault." Aries slowly lifted her eyes back to Dexter, sporting a short smile. "I want everyoneбн not just the people of Haimirich, but everyone across the globe that even when they couldn''t rely on their king and their governance, there''s an organization who could help them."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I want to protect the futureбн that''s the only thing I can do for Maleficent," she added in a calm and soft voice. "To give peace and order and eptance not just for the witches, but also for the vampires. Also, for children like Sunny."

    Aries cast Abel a look and shed him a subtle smile before facing Dexter. "Iбн don''t want more people бк vampires and humans or any other creatures alike to go through the hell you all overcame."

    No one was born wicked, and that was what Aries realized. She already had this realization in mind back then, but only two years ago did she truly understand that phrase.

    Viins were made, and she didn''t want to create more viins in this world. The cycle of revenge and hatred and schemes was too tiring to deal with.

    Abel had this smirk on his face, staring at her side profile with equal admiration and delight. Aries couldn''t save herself and yet, she was trying to save as many people as she could.

    How admirable.

    Meanwhile, Dexter''s eyes softened as he nodded in understanding.

    "You changed, Dani," said the Marquess, reaching out for the ss of wine. "You never cease to make me proud. Although I cannot deny I couldn''t help but question myself. Just what am I doing for the past two years?"

    "Don''t me yourself, though," he added reassuringly. "It only motivates me to be more proactive."

    "This time, I am with you, Marquess." Abel cupped his face, eyes on Aries. "I need to be more proactive since my wife just continues to blossom without withering."

    "You two tter me too much." Aries chuckled, shaking her head mildly.

    The three of them engaged in a menial but entertaining conversation with Dexter and Abel, showering her withpliments from time to time. Little did Dexter and Abel know, what Abel mentioned previously was stuck in Aries''s mind.

    "She just continues to blossom without witheringбн" was that kept reying in Aries''s mind.

    A beautiful yet thorny flowerбн that was what many people described the queen of the maind as. However, even the rarest and most beautiful flower withered, and Ariesбн was not any different.

    While the three of themughed, they had no idea that Aries had been holding her left fist on herp whilst enduring the numbing pain gnawing under her skin. It was as if someone was stabbing her hand repeatedly, but no blood was in sight.

    Aries could only have one exnation for it. Maximus was stabbing his hand to hurt her, but there was no way in hell would she would ruin this moment. Over her dead body.

 Chapter 773 Say Less

    "Hey."

    Abel reached for Aries''s wrist, spinning her around before she enter the chambers. Her brows rose while he kept her wrist on the side.

    "Is there something wrong?" she asked innocently. "Hmm?"

    Aries excused herself after dinner to rest for a bit. Since she already spent some time with Abel and Dexter individually, she wanted to give those two a chance to talk about certain things. Thus, Abel walked her back to Abel''s chambers lest "she would get lost."

    "I also wonder, darling," replied Abel to her seemingly clueless inquiry. "Is there something wrong?"

    "Aside from Maximus wanting to kill all of us, there shouldn''t be any." She sported a subtle smile. "I''ll wait for you here, Abel."

    Abel assessed her smile, still holding her wrist in a ck manner. His lips parted before they shut again, smiling subtly instead.

    "Very well." He carefully released her wrist. "If that is what you say, then I''d assume there is no problem."

    Aries mentally heaved a sigh of relief. "I''ll see youter, Abel."

    "Mhm."

    With that being said, Aries performed a slight curtsy on instinct before turning her back on him. However, just before she could reach the door, she paused.

    "Was it heavy?" he asked under his breath. His question was vague, but somehow, Aries had a clear answer to that. "Darling, two years can be deemed long or short. But for sure, there were significant changes throughout that time. Keeping secrets and details from meбн is that one of your changes?"

    Aries gulped, hearing it echo in her ear. She linked her trembling, squeezing her hand to soothe its trembling.

    "Did you think I''d just pretend nothing is wrong just because you said so?" he continued, eyes fixed on her back. "Darling, Iбн don''t like how you are allowing them to suppress your radiance."

    "I am hurt." Aries didn''t look back as she made a silent confession. "I feel like my hand was just stabbed a hundred times yet, there was no blood. My handбн though it looks fine, feels like it was barely connected."

    The corner of her lips curled up into a subtle smirk. "I had endured such petty retaliation for the past two years. Therefore, this is nothing."

    "For you, I am allowing him to suppress my radiance." Aries slowly turned around to face him squarely. "It was true бк one way or another. However, I look at it differently. It is not about me, Abel. I won''t let Maximus ruin my reunion with you and my brother. There''s no way in hell I will send you two in a battle that I am certain would take a lifetime."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Her countenance was cold and stiff, lifting her chin. "If allowing him to suppress my radiance will buy me some time to recollect my thoughts, then I do not mind keeping silent to my invisible wounds."

    Aries and Abel stared at each other for the next minute. The look in her eyes said it all. She had no ns to borate on how hurt she was just to protect this moment.

    "A certain emperor once told me there was no honor in death." Aries broke the prolonged silence building up between them, recalling Abel''s words in the beginning. "It is the same with pride. My pride will be nothing if I died. Therefore, I am willing to bow my head down if that''s the only way I''d survive. I learned my lesson and am aware of my disposition. I don''t care if people see me as cowardly or less likable, just like how I was used to."

    "Iбн have many things to lose now," she breathed out, clenching her teeth until her jaw tightened. "Losing Haimirichpletely and implicating our innocent subjectбн I thought I already mentioned I cannot go through all that hell all over again."

    "Rikhill and the Maganti Empire were enough," added Aries in the same solemn tone. "I can''t put my new family, friends, and my people in danger again."

    There was another wave of silence that descended between them before Abel took a step forward. He said nothing as he reached for her hand, holding it gently, and then lifting his gaze to her.

    "You haven''t answered my first question," he said in a rasped voice. "Was it heavy?"

    Aries held her breath momentarily and then rocked her head mildly. "I am confident I am carrying it well, but I must admit it was crippling. Fret not. Fabian will do something about it for sure."

    "You''re doing well, darling." His eyes softened, guiding her hand to his lips. "If your soulmate said he will do something, then I know he will. Your pain is his to bear, after all."

    He kept her knuckles on the side of her lips, staring into her eyes lovingly. "I didn''t say I hate your current resolution and reaction on certain things. However, I do mind whenever you lie in front of me. Don''t lieбн I hate them the most."

    Aries pursed her lips into a thin line, stretching her thumb to touch his cheek. It wouldn''t be a surprise if Abel suddenly march to the royal pce just because Aries was in a blood contract with Maximus. However, Aries had seen enough violence.

    More than the urge to get even with Maximus, all she wanted right now was to spend time with him. She had endured many things all her life. So a slight pain wasn''t enough to stop her from functioningpletely.

    "Rest with me," she suggested quietly, holding his gaze so he wouldn''t look away from her. "Allow me to forget, even just for a moment."

    Abel kept quiet for a moment, staring into her eyes.

    "Say less," he whispered, pulling her hand gently and immediately circling his other arm around her waist. He guided her hand on his shoulder before cupping her face, tilting his head to the side while lowering his head.

    As his face grew closer, Aries watched how his eyes slowly closed before his lips sealed hers gently yet hungrily.

 Chapter 774 Fast

    It was no secret for both Aries and Abel that one of the foundations of their rtionship was pleasure. Theirpatibility in the bed strengthened their rtionship, nurturing the blossoming love they had for each other.

    It wasn''t like they only have thoughts of their night of passion. More like it was one of their ways to express their emotions, release their frustrations, and even for healing purposes. Hence, as their lips met for the first time in two years, there was no holding back.

    Abel pulled her body closer to him, securing her waist in his arm. Meanwhile, Aries also closed her eyes while she wrapped her arms around his neck. Little by little, she took a step back with each of his steps forward.

    For a moment, Aries felt the door on her back before his hand reached for the knob. Unwilling to break away from the kiss, they entered the chambers carefully, lips locked. Their steps were careful,yers of their clothes falling on the floor one after another, breathing each other''s breath.

    When they reached the bed, Aries barely had her thin inner dress on while Abel''s upper body was bare. Her backnded on the soft mattress, and without a second break, his body nketed hers. She wasn''t even able to catch her breath before his lips smashed against hers, slipping his tongue inside her mouth to venture into all her sweet corners.

    His touches, his kisses, his every breath on her skin, and every movement of his lips disclosed his hunger. However, he was gentle, with a little bit of roughness every once in a while. Just the way she liked it.

    No words were said throughout, but a bunch of soft noises and moans would resonate from time to time. Before they knew it, every bit of fabric protecting their bodies soon fell out of the bed.

    Aries stretched her neck, eyes shut, allowing him to nibble her neck down to her corbone, straight to her tender mounds. This was everything she craved; an emotion and sensation that would make her forget everything to focus on the moment.

    "Darling." His voice was rasped and deep, licking the shell of her ear as he positioned his erection on her flower''s entrance.

    Aries said nothing, embracing him to anticipate the sensation that would soon take over her body. With her lips locked with his again, she felt her flesh stretch to fit his girth, biting his lips at the slight pain of having her walls break again.

    A hiss of satisfaction slipped out of their lips and into each other''s mouths. Her tightness and the heat around his erection made him clench his teeth, stopping himself from breaking her walls out of excitement. While Aries could feel the very tip of his manhood at the end of her wall.

    For a while, Abel didn''t move and simply indulged in the softness of her lips. His hand crawled over her arm to her hand, pinning it on the mattress before moving his hip ever so slowly.

    "Ahh..." her lips parted, feeling his hardness graze her folds as he pulled his hips back, only to thrust abruptly. He repeated the cycle until she was dripping wet, granting his every thrust with smoother in and out.

    Another wave of soft moans and grunts resonated in the chambers, echoing along with the sound of their skin pping against each other. Despite theck of light in the room, their skin shone with sweat until they were both panting, sharing a passionate and breathless kiss.

    After what seemed to be forever, their moans grew louder as they reached climax. Both screamed each other''s name with such passion before Abel covered her lips with his. Soon, as she throbbed around his girth, Abel jerked off inside her.

    As he gasped for air, Abel bit her damp shoulder while still holding her body close to him. He didn''t pull out, resting his forehead on her shoulder while the tip of his nose was touching the side of her neck.

    "I..." he breathed out but was unable to say anything further as she looked back at him.

    "You... came fast."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "..."

    Both of them stared at each other wordlessly, and he couldn''t refute herment. Unlike how long he wouldst back then, tonight''s first session was considered quick. It was only past ten minutes, but he already had his orgasm. Back then, thirty to forty minutes was a miracle.

    Aries would have to beg him or just tease him to arouse him. It wasn''t that Abel wasn''t easily aroused. Matter of fact, he was a simpleton. He would get hard if she just graze his thigh. It was just that he had a long pull-out game.

    "PfftaА"" Aries bit her lower lip after a moment, suppressing theughter that was threatening to fill the silent room.

    "I have to regain my pride as a man." Abel ran his tongue across his inner cheek, staring at her mischievous countenance.

    "I was kidding." She chuckled, nting her hands on his shoulders, and lifted her head. "I prefer this to be fair."

    Aries nted a soft kiss on his cheek before resting the back of her head on the mattress. "Moreover, you were on a diet for the past two years. So, it is understandable. It''ll only be frustrating if yousted for ten seconds."

    "Unbelievable."

    "I am a human, don''t forget that." Aries smiled, raising her brows after a moment when he lifted her hand to his lips again.

    "Does it still hurt?" he asked, keeping his lips on her wrist with his eyes on her.

    Her expression softened, noticing that he had been nting kisses on her wrist as if he could see the invisible chains around them.

    "Not as much as they used to," she answered with all honesty. "I feel better. Thank you."

    Abel kissed her wrist once more before letting her arm rest over his shoulder. Once he secured her body with his arms, he swiftly lifted her up until she was sitting on hisp. His manhood was still deep inside her and her chest pressed against his body.

    "Just rest here," he said, cing his palm on the back of her head to guide it on his shoulder. "Don''t watch your weight. We won''t fall."

    Aries moved her head, adjusting it until she found afortable spot on it. A subtle smile was stuck on her face, letting her entire body rx for the first time without exerting a little bit of her power. The chains that bound her might not be visible to the naked eye, but they were heavy that could break this bed if she wasn''t careful.

    "Thank you," she whispered, feeling a little sleepy. "For granting me the rest, I seek."

    "You''re more than wee, darling," was thest she heard before falling into a peaceful slumber with those gentle strokes on her naked back.

 Chapter 775 That Is A Royal Order

    Abel slowly opened his eyes, catching Aries''s sleeping face as soon as he did. His expression remained the same, cold, caressing her cheek with the back of his fingers. His silence spoke many things, making his fingers tremble slightly.

    ''I''m sorry, darling,'' he expressed inwardly, retrieving his hand from her face. ''Iбн cannot let things slide.''

    Abel carefully slipped away from the bed, doing his best not to wake him up. When he stood on the side of the bed, he bent over to cover her und body with a nket.

    "I''ll be backter," he whispered, ting a kiss over her forehead. As he did, Abel pressed the side of her neck for a reason. "Rest well."

    He breathed in deeply, inhaling the floral scent of her hair. Drawing his head back slightly, he studied her sleeping face up close. It was only hours since he appeared in front of her after two years, but there were many things he already noticed.

    Abel simply didn''t speak about them, preferring to spend their reunion as peacefully as possible to catch up. However, that didn''t mean he would let it slide.

    Maximusбн had ruined her.

    In this ce called the maind, a territory initially owned by the Grimsbanneбн how could he allow Maximus, who was nothing but a thief and a scavenger of the Grimsbanne''s powers dare exploit Aries? Not only he had been sucking her blood for the past two years, but also her life and that damn Maleficent.

    No way in hell Abel would let things stay like that, even if Aries asked.

    Abel idled by her side for a moment before pushing himself away from the bed. He stood still on the side of the bed, eyes on her. Silence reigned over the room, leaving it that way. Turning his heel around, his footsteps didn''t make the slightest sound.

    His steps as he walked out of the chambers through the long hallway didn''t falter. The dark aura emanating from his back grew stronger with every passing second. Soon, Abel reached the front door, pushing it open, producing a loud creak as if the hinges woulde off.

    Just when the door opened, Abel paused. His eyesnded on the figure leaning against the pir on the mansion''s porch.

    "That took you quite a while, but understandable since it''s been two years since we met her," said Dexter. His arms were folded under his chest, back against the pir, eyes on the entrance.

    It was as though he had been waiting for him even though they didn''t talk anything about this. Well, there was no discussion needed. Just being with Aries for a brief time was enough to understand the weight she had to carry, even if it meant crawling her way forward.

    "I let her sleep for now." Abel stepped out of the mansion and stood in the middle of the porch. "She''ll have a deep sleep for the first time tonight."

    "Then I wouldn''t have to worry." Dexter peeled his back from the pir ever so slowly, unfolding his arms and dropping them to the side. "We can go wild all night, yes?"

    "Be as wild as you canбн" Abel''s tone soundedzy, but danger shone in his eyes. "I''ll end him tonight."

    The side of Dexter''s lips stretched from ear to ear, having this rare equilibrium with Abel. He slowly set his eyes ahead, particrly in the thick forest surrounding the clearing where the mansion stood.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I thought I would have to do it if you didn''te out tonight," said Dexter, already dead set on settling scores tonight. Now that Abel was here and now that he was able to get out of the House Leviticus, Dexter wouldn''t allow another second for his sister to suffer.

    Aries had already sacrificed herself to save all of them, and all of them meant every single one in Haimirich. Suzanne, Conan, Isaiah, Dexter, Abel, Violet, Romanбн every single one of them was still breathing because Aries used her body and life as a shield. It didn''t mean that Maximus and Marse were invincible. It was just that those two came prepared with their long-standing n, catching everyone off guard with the twist and turns.

    If Aries didn''t prepare the slightest in weing Maximus back into the Haimirich Empire, they could only think of a worse oue than the current one.

    "No way in hellбн would I dy something that I know hurts her with every breath she takes," whispered Abel, drawing a deep breath. "I already asked him two years ago not to act up. He still did."

    Abel lifted his chin as a glint flickered across his eyes. "No mercy to anyone who stands in my way, Marquess. That is a royal order."

    "As you wished, Your Majesty." Dexter tilted his head down, more than willing to execute this royal order.

    With that being said, these two men marched to the capital with the intention to massacre everyone who would stand in their way from executing Maximus tonight. Yes. Tonight. Because deep in their hearts, they couldn''t have the courage to rise up along the sun doing nothing for Aries.

    It was a must.

    *

    *

    *

    Minutesterбн

    Aries slowly opened her eyes. She didn''t look for Abel immediately, staring at the empty side of the bed. She stretched her hand to the space beside her, smiling subtly when she felt the lingering scent he left.

    "So it wasn''t a dream, huh?" she whispered, eyes softening as she stared at the crease on the sheet. "He really came."

    There was a moment of silence that descended on the chambers she slept in. She knew Abel tried to force sleep into her, but it was futile. Unless Abel does something more powerful than pressing her acupuncture point, Aries wouldn''t be affected by it.

    Aries breathed out, pushing herself to sit up on the bed. The nket covering her naked top fell to herp, running her fingers through her hair.

    "Gustav," she whispered, turning her head to the slightly open window where the wind was blowing. "Assist London and evacuate all the monarchs to the safe pce. Even I won''t be able to stop Wrath from continuing where he and Maximus left off. Maximus had iting, after all. I do not intend to interfere."

 Chapter 776 Tonights Fiesta

    [ Maind: Royal Pce ]

    "Maximus had iting all, after all. I do not intend to interfere."

    Gustav walked through the dimly lit hallway, recalling the words that had been in his head for some time now. His expression was stiff and his steps were unfaltering. Soon, he reached a certain door, lifting his chin as he gazed upon the wide door.

    A shallow breath slipped past his lips, reaching for the knob. He didn''t knock, but he carefully opened the door. The loud creak the door made announced his arrival, letting anyone inside the chamber know there was a person entering.

    The room was dark. There was not a single candle that was lit, but Gustav''s eyes shone a bright red in the dark.

    "You should go," said Gustav as soon as his eyes fell on the person sitting in the dark. "She will need you in there."

    His eyes were fixed on the dark corner of the room. There, curled in the dark, was Suzanne, the queen''sdy-in-waiting.

    Suzanne was hugging her knees, lifting up her head to look at Gustav from over her folded arms.

    "Sir Gustav," came out her tiny voice. Her face rose from where it was hiding, revealing two sharp fangs that her lips couldn''t hide.

    "Her Majesty is in that mansion in the Forbidden Forest, mydy. The royal pce isn''t a safe ce for anyone anymore."

    "It''s never been a safe ce." Her eyes slowly turned red, gulping the tension that made her throat dry. "I would like to stay, Sir Gustav. I am no longer the Suzanne I was two years ago. There was no need to protect me."

    "Mydy."

    "My queen had suffered because of me!"

    "That is not true."

    "There is some truth in it." Suzanne slowly rose from the corner, balling her hands into a fist as she suppressed her thirst. "I might not be the root or the main cause, but one way or another, she had sacrificed a lot for me as well. To bring me back even if it meant sacrificing a portion of her life and feeding me her blood."

    Suzanne shook her head mildly. "I tried to suppress everything, Sir Gustav. However, nights such as this made it especially hard."

    "If you are truly remorseful, then the more reason you should leave, mydy."

    "I am not being remorseful." A dryugh slipped past her lips, shaking her head mildly. "With this new blood running in my veins, I couldn''t find the slightest regret in ever licking a drop of her blood. I am now a vampire; someone who barely seeded in turning with these marks on my neck."

    Suzanne touched the wounds on her neck that never healed. If not for her constant self-care, she knew maggots would appear on them and eat her flesh because it was out in the open.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I will stay in here until the very end," she continued, almost whispering herst words. "I will fight for her and regain the freedom they had stolen from her."

    Gustav kept his lips in a thin line, sizing her up from head to toe. For two years, the only reason they were all still alive was because of Aries. They all knew that. However, they couldn''t do anything because Aries always told them to not do anything.

    "If that is what you wished," said Gustav, folding his sleeve to his elbow. "Then, I won''t stop you. Her Majesty said she didn''t intend to interfere tonight."

    He then raised his arm with his fist facing up, eyes on Suzanne. "I understand your resolution for I share the same sentiments. It''s either I return to her with the freedom she used to have or die fighting for it. But before you step out of here, let me offer you my blood to help you relieve your suffering."

    Gustav studied Suzanne''s unmoving figure as thetter gazed down at his wrist. Hesitation dominated her face, making her body tremble as her desire and morals shed against each other.

    "Do not speak of fighting if youбн" he trailed off, getting a whiff of blood from a distance. "... are hesitant to ept another person''s help. I am simply doing this so you have a chance to return to her side. She''ll be disheartened if you die and waste the sacrifices she made just to bring you back."

    Suzanne ground her teeth until her gums bled, holding Gustav''s eyes. The stench of blood outside grew stronger as if more and more people were spilling their blood. When she gulp, it echoed in her ear before she heaved a deep exhale.

    "Thenбн" in a blink of an eye, Suzanne appeared in front of Gustav. "... thank you, Sir Gustav."

    She reached for his arm and without a second hesitation, her fangs sank deep into his wrist. His jaw tightened at the heat in his arm, allowing her to drink his blood from his wrist while some of it dripped on the floor.

    As Suzanne sucked his blood, Gustav peeled his eyes away from her to the window. The room was curtain shut, but for reasons unknown, one of them was left slightly ajar. It allowed the wind to blow past the curtain, giving him a glimpse of what was outside.

    "I saw him," he whispered, but Suzanne didn''t answer as if she was preupied with soothing her scorching throat. "Earlier todayбн I had a glimpse of him."

    His eyelids drooped, keep his eyes on the fluttering curtain. When he breathed out carefully, a sudden gust of wind blew past the window that made it flutter back before itpletely detached from the window. The windows continued to shake; some window panes shattered while others just revealed cracks on them as a result.

    With the curtain now on the floor and the windows shattered, making the other curtains flutter, the stench of blood filled the air. However, Gustav''s eyes were focused on the reddish dark sky covering the maind.

    "He had broken the Thousand Seal on him," he whispered before snapping his eyes back to Suzanne as thetter managed to stop herself before he could ask.

    Suzanne wiped the blood on the corner of her mouth with the back of her fist. She nced up at him, releasing his arm.

    "Thank you," she expressed under her breath, turning her head to the window where he was looking at previously. "So he hade, huh? What is that, by the way?"

    Gustav massaged his wrist as he set his eyes on the window.

    "Wrath," he answered. "That''s the power of wrath. Carnage."

 Chapter 777 Tonights Fiesta II

    [ The king''s chambers ]

    "Youбн" Maximus''s eyes red up, gazing upon Aries, who was standing before him. "... what did you say?"

    "Let''s end this."

    "Aries." Maximus stomped his feet toward her, stopping a step from her. "Say that with your physical body here."

    Aries didn''t react strongly, assessing the anger stered on his face. "I don''t want to do this anymore, Maximus."

    "Shut up."

    "It''s been two years since we agreed on this contract and I am on the brink of death. You already had my entire life and a lot of Maleficent''s power. What else do you want from me?" she remarked calmly. "Don''t tell me you had grown an attachment to me?"

    Maximus balled his hand into a tight fist. His entire body was shivering in anger. Knowing he couldn''t hurt her because she was simply a mirage бк an ability she learned бк added to his frustrations.

    "Orбн are you scared?" she asked, tilting her head to the side. "Was your current power still not enough to defend yourself from the real owner of our darkness?"

    The corner of her lips curled up into an amused smirk. "It must be, isn''t it, Max?"

    "Did it have something to do with this fable you kept iming to be untrue?" she added with a tinge of mockery in her voice.

    Aries heard about this unpopr fable as the queen of the maind. It was an unpopr tale because, for some reason, no one spoke about it. If not for the witches she brought in here, she wouldn''t get the entire story.

    It was no secret that the Grimsbanne n were the direct descendants of the devil. But before that, the Grimsbanne once owned the maind and was originally a part of the world.

    The maind was once known as an empire: Hendrik Empire.

    Back then, the Hendrik Empire, which was now known as the Maind, had a prince. The crown prince. They said this crown prince was vicious and would stop at nothing to get what he wants. Only when he died did everyone, realize the crown prince wasn''t as vile as everyone thought he was.

    The crown prince simply did what he must to protect his family and his people from the vicious devil disguising himself as another prince. When the crown prince had a chance, he took advantage of the war between vampires and wolves to dissolve the curse cast upon theirnd.

    But by doing so, he had to sacrifice his life and keep his end of the bargain with the devil. Thus, the reason the maind disappeared from the rest of the world, and also, the existence of the two seeds.

    The two seeds.

    ording to prophesy, the two seeds who were born by the blood of the crown prince and the devil would pass the devil''s will to seven chosen seeds. And when those seeds werepleted, they would destroy the world.

    That was the prophecy and the crown prince knew that he would leave behind something no one would want. This was also the prophecy everyone knew but never talked about.

    However, there was another side to this story, and it was something no one knew about. Aries guessed it was because someone wanted to keep this part of the story hidden so people''s fears of the existence of Grimsbanne wouldn''t disappear.<novelnext></novelnext>

    The other part of the story that everyone didn''t know about was that the crown prince just didn''t die, leaving two evil children behind. The crown prince died, asking his loyal subject, who became the new king of the maind, to nurture these seeds with love, sincerity, and kindness so they wouldn''t turn evil. And thus, that was the reason the new king took care of them.

    Until the first child of these two seeds was born.

    There weren''t many details regarding this first child, but it was said that it was a troubled one. However, the first child died. No one knew the reason why he died, but the sudden deaths of a Grismsbanne weren''t new, especially if they were not ''chosen''. People just deemed it as something like that.

    That was where the unpopr story ended.

    But after a thorough study in the royal library, Aries noticed that there was more in the story that wasn''t told. Or rather, no one just noticed the gradual changes, for there were too insignificant to notice.

    "I might be wrong." Aries fluttered her eyshes ever so tenderly, smiling. "But at this point, I do not care about you or me anymore, Max. All I want is for everything to end. It doesn''t matter if I have a year, a month, or even a day to live. I will die after you, not before."

    Rage dominated Maximus''s face as he red at her. "The audacity after letting you live бк "

    "Stop talking as if I am the only person who gained something in this deal." Aries cut him off before he started spouting nonsense. "If you truly don''t want this to happen, then you know what to do, right?"

    She tipped her head in the window''s direction. "Come and get meбн if you can."

    "Aries!" Maximus leaped to grab her, but her image simply distorted before she faded. "That wenchбн!"

    His pupils dted as his heart suddenly thudded, sensing this growing auraing at him like a beast.

    "Ma.Xi.Mus."

    His breath hitched, turning his head at the window where the wind that was blowing past it carried Abel''s will.

    "Come out."

    *

    *

    *

    [ FORBIDDEN FOREST ]

    Aries slowly opened her eyes, taking a deep breath and breathing it out through her dry lips. She bent her knees as she leaned her back against the headboard of the bed. She turned her head to the balcony''s door. It was slightly ajar. Her eyes were soft, but the dark bag underneath them slightly suppressed the beauty and life in them.

    "Two years is a long time, Maximus," she whispered, feeling the soft gust of wind caress her face. "May the one that had tormented you for many years burn you forever in hell."

 Chapter 778 Silence Was Also A Sound Of War

    "How strange. It was so quiet, but the stench of death is undeniable."

    Ismael peeked through the window to see what was happening outside. However, aside from the soldiers patrolling the new pce, nothing seemed amiss. Just now, all the monarchs were evacuated from their lodging to the new pce as discreetly and quietly as possible.

    "The cry of soldiers and the sound of people fighting isn''t the only sound the war carries, King Ismael." Inside the sitting room where Samael was at the moment was Veronika pouring herself a ss of wine. "Silenceбн is also a part of it."

    Veronika paused, casting Ismael a look as she picked up the winess. "You and I both know that. After all, war starts within the pce walls and among the royals."

    "I can''t deny that." Ismael scratched the back of his head, walking back to the round table.

    When Ismael stood beside the round table, his eyes fell on Veronika''s beautiful, sharp facial features. He kept his eyes on her momentarily while reaching for the decanter.

    "Now that I think about it, I haven''t asked why you are here, Your Highness?" he asked, peeling his eyes away from her as he poured himself a ss. "For sure, you didn''te in here just to share a few sses of wine. A woman knocking on a man''s room in the middle of the nightбн how scandalous."

    "It is only scandalous if we are both married."

    "I believe thend of Chivisea is a conservative country." Ismael ced the decanter back on the table and picked up his ss, gazing back at her. "Married or not, isn''t this quite bold of you? Don''t get me wrong, princess. I have no ns to take advantage of you, but I care about my reputation."

    Veronika let out a short snicker. "Why are you so serious, Your Majesty? It''s not like we''re strangers. Our country had been in a friendly rtionship. A meeting between us might incite caution to those who were on our bad side, but not a scandalous rumor between a man and a woman."

    "Before we are thatбн you are an emperor and I am the first in line on the throne," she added in a knowing tone. "I''m certain you are aware of that, and there was no need for me to spell it out. So, howe that didn''t cross you?"

    Silence followed Veronika''s remarks as Ismael took the seat across from her. She cocked her head to the side, not showing the slightest worry that they might die tonight. After all, even though they were moved to this castle by the people of the summit, they didn''t exin the reason. Still, Veronika wasn''t born yesterday, not to guess the reason they moved all participants to another ce for safety.

    Blood would spill into the main building.

    "Was it because of Her Majesty?" she asked when another minute had passed and Ismael didn''t answer. "Are you worried about her? She was abducted, so it wasn''t surprising you were worried about her."

    "Not that." Ismael shook his head mildly, letting out a deep sigh. "I was simply thinking of what she said."

    "Of what she said?"

    Ismael snapped his eyes at her curious eyes and shrugged. "Nothing."

    "Really?" Veronika rolled her eyes. "Her Majesty is my friend before I became her loyal subject. I will die for her, and if she told you something that worried you, I will naturally want to hear it. I owe my life бк no, the entire Chivisea and all the women in thatnd owe her a debt. Even our lives aren''t enough to thank her for everything from then up until now."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I am curious because I want to help if I can," she added sternly. "So please, Your Majesty, if this is something she didn''t specifically ask not to be disclosed, let me hear it."

    "You are so persistentбн"

    "The only time I am persistent is when I''m securing my spot and my queen." бк that was true.

    Ismael assessed Veronika''s face for a moment before he sighed for the second time. He trusted Veronika because this woman had already proved her loyalty to Aries. Even if Aries asked Veronika to slit her throat, thetter would happily do so.

    "Contract," remarked Ismael. "Back there in the conference hall. She mentioned being bound by a contract. I had been in contact with witches, but not with vampires. All the turned once were arrested and put to death sentences when I rose to power since they were all Joaquin''s loyalists."

    "You can say I don''t know much about theplicated details of vampires and what else they could do," he continued solemnly. "But, I feel like whatever this contract is, it''s not good. My gut feeling is so sure about this."

    Veronika stayed silent, recalling those vague words that slipped past Aries''s lips, which she told Abel first thing. She didn''t dwell on it because there were many more things at hand. The summit had to continue even after Abel abducted Aries and Maximus walked out. Veronika and Ismael had to handle the summit and help London Leviticus, so the first day wouldn''t go to waste. They seeded, though.

    "Chivisea doesn''t have vampires in their records," she said under her breath. "But I also don''t know about thatбн."

    Veronika trailed off as the round table between her and Ismael suddenly swayed. Both of them nced up, catching the chandelier sway as well. Some dust from the ceiling sprinkled down on them,nding inside her ss of wine and snacks.

    "How scaryбн" she whispered, eyes on the dust on the surface of the still wine. "No screams, cries, or even the sound of metals or pistols. Yet, all the hairs across my body are rising in fear."

    "Silence is also a sound of war, you said it yourself," Ismael humored with a smirk. "Though I won''t make fun of you. After all, the feeling was mutual."

    Ismael slowly turned his head in the window where the wind was blowing the curtain. "This silenceбн scares me. I am not excited to look forward to what news I''d hear tomorrow. Whatever the oue is."

    One thing was for sure, whatever the oue tonight, it wouldn''t sit well with anyone. Why? Because if Maximus would live tomorrow, that only meant everyone was doomed. But if he didn''t and Abel turned up at the summit tomorrow, that only meant they were also at his mercy.

    It was just a matter of whose devil was a little less evil.

    From a biased point of view, Ismael would still choose Abel because he had Aries. But what if something happened to Aries?

    The answer to that was something no one else was certain of and no one wanted to know.

 Chapter 779 The Firstborn

    In most wars, silence was something that wasn''t heard on the battlefield. It was mostly filled with the sound of metals, cries, and deaths. However, the silence of tonight was enough to make everyone stay up. Not just Ismael and Veronika, but most of the monarchs in the safe castle were either pacing back and forth or holding their own small meetings.

    Strangely enough, these people would rather hear people fighting, so they had an idea of the situation. Instead of just holding their breaths every time the ground shook, or the furniture swayed as if there was an earthquake.

    The uncertainty of what was happening and what to expect the next second was nerve-wracking.

    Justбн what was going on?

    [ The Royal Pce: Main Castle ]

    "Stop right there!"

    The royal knights surrounded Abel from entering the main castle. With their weapons up and their fangs out, they hissed at the figure standing in the middle.

    Abel blinked ever so tenderly, looking around at the royal knights who were now surrounding him, stopping his entry. He said nothing, taking a step, warranting a cautious step from the knights.

    "I said stop right there!" the knight yelled his lungs out, thrusting his sword up. "Abel Grimsbanne. You do not have permission to enter the main castle of our king. Turn around and walk away from here, and we will treat this as something that didn''t happen. However, if you take another step, we would have no choice but to бк"

    The knight was unable to end his remarks as all of them suddenly floated in the air. Confusion shook in their eyes as their feet left the ground, feeling their body feel as light as a feather.

    "I am asking you nicely, Sir knight. Do not stand in my way, or I will disintegrate you all," Abel warned, keeping his index erect. "I have nothing against you all, and if possible, I do not want unnecessary deaths. All I want is Maximus, hmm?"

    The knight held Abel''s gaze, but despite the fear that crawled in his heart, he still hissed. "We fight for our king! For the sake of the maind, we won''t allow such a vile thing to cause more trouble in this peacefulnd!"

    "You are putting not just your life but also yourrades'' lives at risk." Abel nced at the rest. "Do you also share the same sentiments, sirs?"

    "Yes! Even if we''re against you, we will fight for our king!" shouted the majority of them, but there were some who were unable to speak a word.

    "How foolishбн" Abel snickered. "I wonder if that is because I have been away from the maind that you do not know about what a Grimsbanne can do?"

    Abel cocked his head to the side; his expression dull. "Or did you all grow cocky just because my sister who was left in that mansion couldn''t care less? Nevermind. I don''t care."

    When Abel blinked, all the knights, who didn''t back down, suddenly exploded from the inside. Blood showered the ground, and he didn''t even bat an eye. The metal armor they were wearing was the only thing thatnded on the ground with a piercing ng. Those who didn''t speak a word dropped on their bottom, being showered with the blood of theirrades.

    The knights бк only three of them бк were frozen on the spot. Abel simply moved his index, and most of them died. They gazed at the pools of blood on the ground and the empty metal armor. The sight of it made their heart sink.

    If these three knights were just as courageous as theirrades, they would''ve shared the same fate. Fortunately, their tongues rolled back before they could even agree.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "What a bother," he whispered to himself, taking a step toward the entrance of the main castle. "Seriouslyбн why is he making mee to him like a pathetic coward?"

    As Abel walked away, the knights could only stare at his back. He was walking at his own pace; there was no hurry, even though he was just alone. Well, even if he was alone, the knights thought he could still win a full-scale war all alone.

    This was what a Grimsbanne truly was.

    The Grimsbanne they had glimpsed in the past years were nothing like him. At least, those they saw in the past didn''t have such a violent reactionбн or rather, there was just nothing that angered them, like how Maximus angered Abel.

    No wonder some nobles were wary of the Grimsbanne. They were monsters.

    *

    *

    *

    Abel didn''t care about the knights he allowed to leave for as long as they won''te after him. After all, he just wanted to end this once and for all and return home. Once the turmoil in his head had settled on Maximus'' death, he could be with Aries without any guilt.

    But just as Abel reached the porch of the main castle, he stopped in front of the shut doors. This time, he wasn''t stopped by someone in front of him. No one was there. But he stopped because of the presence behind him.

    "Anyone who stands in my wayбн means war. Are you here to stop me, London Leviticus?" Abel slowly turned on his heel to face London Leviticus, who was standing on thest step down the stairs. "Tell me, so I can end you before you establish the legacy you seek."

    "Do not do this, Abel Grimsbanne."

    "And why is that?" Abel quirked a brow, tilting his head to the side. "Why shouldn''t I do this?"

    London sported a stern expression. "Why are you doing this, Abel?"

    "Are you asking because you seriously don''t know?" Abel let out a dryugh, shaking his head mildly. "My wife was held hostage here for years. On top of that, I am the firstborn. The big brother, the uncle, and the grandfather. How am I going to face my pitiful little sister, my nephew, and my grandkids if they go back home with this ce a mess and sheltering that man?"

    His eyes shone with anger as he ground his teeth. "No fucking hell would I allow my family gets trampled on and on, London Leviticus. Now, tell me, are you going to stop me or not?"

    London''s jaw tightened as he breathed a jagged breath. "I''m just saying. Maximus had her on a leash, but do as you wish."

    "Then the more reason I have to get him." Abel turned around and marched towards the door, flexing his fingers on the side to soothe the itch of tearing Maximus with his bare hands. When Abel kicked the door open, his eyes glinted as he hissed, setting his eyes on the person waiting for him inside.

 Chapter 780 Are You Done?

    BAM!

    Maximus stared at the person by the door. Thetter''s shadow stretched inside, reaching near Maximus''s vantage point.

    "Abel Grimsbanne," called Maximus under his breath, noticing Abel''s bloodshot eyes as if all the anger he held in was slowly seeping out of his body. "You''ve finallye."

    "You''ve finally shown up," Abel returned with a hiss, looking at Maximus from head to toe. "I thought I will have to turn this castle upside down before youe."

    "I am no coward." Maximus snickered in mockery. "You do not have to find me to see me. I would''ve gone to you if only you asked nicely, but s, why would I? I am in the position to ept the audience and not do the requesting."

    The corner of Abel''s lips curled up into a smirk, chuckling with his lips closed.

    "How amusing, indeed," he mused, rocking his head to the side. "I asked youбн to know your ce and not to cross the line. Yet, you did theplete opposite of what I asked."

    Another wave ofughter escaped Maximus'' lips.

    "Know my ce? Not cross the line?" he scorned, eyes glinting menacingly. "Abel Grimsbanne, your arrogance never ceased to amaze me бк it is infuriating. How dare you, a mere child, throw those threats at me?!"

    Maximus''s voice echoed like a p of thunder, making the walls shake. However, Abel stayed on his ground while keeping his emotionless eyes on him.

    "It''s not that I do not know my ce, my friend. It is you who do not know your ce, stepping foot in my territory and ughtering my people!"

    "Oh, my lord!" Abel sang sarcastically. "Since when did you care about other people, my dearest friend? As far as I remember, you care about no one but yourself. Moreover, it is not I who stepped foot into your territory first."

    His eyes shone in bright red as his fangs grew longer and sharper. "It is you, Maximus, who stepped foot in Haimirich and caused mayhem in mynd. Do not forget. I don''t attack unprovoked."

    There was a long, stifling silence that descended on the hall after Maximus'' remarks. It wasn''t like Maximus had forgotten. However, it wasn''t like he was also pertaining to the same case.

    "The blood of Grimsbanneбн what a pathetic bloodline." Maximus snickered after a moment of silence, keeping his bloodshot eyes on Abel. "No matter how strong they were, they just die just because they weren''t chosen. Don''t you find it strange, Abel?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    He cocked his head to the side, waiting for Abel''s reply for a moment before he continued.

    "Rightбн you will not understand because you were one of the chosen Grimsbanne to live and survive." Maximus rocked his head calmly, but his tone bore a stronger trace of resentment. "Those who weren''t chosen could just either die without them knowing, or bear a child for the possibility that their seeds might live on. It''s hrious whenever I think about it. How people deemed the Grimsbanne as terrifying creatures, but then again, they were nothing but a pathetic bunch."

    Many knew that the Grimsbanne was the n more powerful than the king. They were the direct descendants of the devil, and there was no doubt of that. In terms of strength, wits, and blood purity, the Grimsbanne n was unparalleled.

    However, not many knew that it wasn''t all about power and such. It was also the reason the said n didn''t think so much about the reputation they had from the outside.

    The Grimsbanne had produced talented and exceptional vampires throughout the years. But the sad truth behind their lineage was that, although they had all the powers to live long enough, they couldn''t. If a Grimsbanne was born and he wasn''t the chosen seed as prophesied, they were meant to die naturally. This was all because they couldn''t contain the power they were born with. Their power was a double-edged sword; some of them died even before they learned to walk. Others managed to live to adulthood, but then, they were sickly or inflict sickness.

    One of those adults who managed to live until his adulthood was Maximus. Or rather, the soul inside that body. An old soul from the past, who simply wanted to live.

    "You have no idea of what I have gone through to survive, Abel," said Maximus with a shaking voice as his emotion peaked. "You are a chosen one, and thus, you did not have any worries. You and Mathilda бк even that wench, Marse, and Ameria. Just what did you all do to deserve that power?!"

    "You lot did nothing to survive, taking everything for granted and acting all high and might," continued Maximus with deep resentment in his voice. "That wench Marse had nothing good to do in this world, ruining everyone''s lives around her. Ameria could''ve just stayed still, but that woman took all the heirs in thisnd with her to find a mere human."

    "Mathilda should just die since she has no contribution in life or in this world whatsoever. She''s just existing. A waste of space," he added andughed in ridicule, listing his sisters one by one and how they were. "And you, Abel Grimsbanneбн you and I know your existence is nothing but a mistake. You shouldn''t have existed. I mean, why? You don''t even know your purpose! You have no idea, and frankly, you are nothing but a lost child who couldn''t use his maximum potential."

    Maximus shook his head, thinking of how these chosen seeds were too useless for their own good. He had seen them since they were children, and never once did they amuse him. They weren''t even adorable, like how that Sunny was.

    "Originals? Don''t make meugh." Maximus chuckled, looking at Abel from head to toe in ridicule. "You only got that title because you''re the only ones who survived. But you lot aren''t originals. I am!"

    His voice echoed until it faded, but Abel maintained his dull countenance. When thetter''s lips parted, there were only three words that came out of his mouth.

    "Are you done?"

 Chapter 781 What A Waste

    "Are you done?"

    That question made Maximus scoff, but Abel kept his monotonous countenance.

    "Don''t get me wrong, my friend," said Abel cooly, not meeting Maximus''s anger. If anything, Abel''s anger slightly subsided while listening to Maximus spout nonsense. "I''m just wondering if you''re done, or if you still have a lot to say about my nephew and his children. You went from my sisters, after all. So I''d naturally think you would also attack the rest of the seeds you so loath."

    "Go on," Abel urged calmly. "Shoot. Keep wagging that tongue before I cut it."

    "Times changed," Maximus smirked. "I no longer n to hide or run away from you all."

    His lips stretched, appearing more wicked than he already appeared. "I will kill every single one of you and I''ll start with you."

    Boom!

    Suddenly, a p of thunder rang in the sky, shing light at them through the windows. Abel nced at the wide window on the roof, catching a darkyer slowly covering the sky, before setting his eyes back to Maximus.

    "I should''ve done this back then." Maximus raised a hand over his head with his palms open. "If only I did, I would''ve probably slept peacefully tonight with Maleficent."

    Out of nowhere, a sudden portal opened up over Maximus'' palm, revealing a mix of a ck and red colored sword. Just the sight of it was enough to intimidate anyone, giving off this bloodcurdling sensation to those who would cast their eyes upon it.

    It slowly descended in Maximus'' grip, which he sped tightly. He swung it to the side, revealing its sharpness as it shed through the air.

    "Maleficent," he spoke, smirking. "I named it after Maleficent."

    "So that is where you''ve been putting her life energy, huh?" Abel''s eyes fell on the hauntingly beautiful sword.

    One look, and a swordsman like him, would definitely see the beauty of the craftsmanship on it. However, knowing how it was made was enough to blind Abel from seeing its beauty.

    "And here I was, thinking how to make you return her life." Abel snapped his eyes ever so tenderly. "Maybe even just a portion."

    His eyes fell on Maximus''s sword again. "But it seemed that is impossible."

    "Haha!" Maximusughed. "Even if I die, there is no way I won''t take her with me."

    His lips stretched into an evil smirk, caressing the des of his sword. "You might not die, Abel Grimsbanne. But I will hurt you in the worst way possible."

    Abel stared at Maximus''s wicked countenance as thetter caressed his de. His lips were drawn into a thin line and his expression was in. However, there was a slight sadness that peeked from the thousands ofyers in his eyes.

    "You are so foolish, Maximus," whispered Abel, raising his hand to his side ever so slowly. "I don''t deny that we had done nothing to deserve this fate. After all, we never asked to be born. At least, not this way and not with this blood sustaining our life."<novelnext></novelnext>

    He fluttered his long eyshes as droplets of blood suddenly dripped from his fingertips.

    "I had always known you," he continued in the same somber tone. "Mathildaбн Ameria and I had always known your existence. Yet, we kept quiet. For as long as you found a means to survive, why would we interfere? That is your life, and you had quite a good one as well."

    "Why waste it?" Abel breathed out, asking out of pure curiosity. "I do not understand. Why would you waste and ruin the memories you had built with us?"

    Back then, this old soul had been watching over the Grimsbanne n. He was friendly. Matter of fact, from the first king to thest king, Maximus III, the Grimsbanne owed him a peaceful life. No one touched their n or even made a bold move because the king protected them. Of course, the biggest factor was because the Grimsbanne were naturally superior species.

    As a token of gratitude, the Grimsbanne behaved themselves. Abel didn''t have other friends on the maind, but he would constantly visit Maximus and the king. Abel was certain his little sister, Tilly, was the same. They also never interfered with anything about politics, living as normal subjects abiding by thew.

    They had a good time if Abel was to ask. His rtionship with Maximus wasn''t that terrible, honestly. It was more than great.

    "What a waste," added Abel after recalling all those times in the past when he would share a few goodughs with this man. "I will not ask you if any of those times were even real or if there was a time you actually found yourself having such familial connections. Let''s leave the memories as it is."

    Times changed people''s hearts. That was what Abel wanted to believe, not dwelling on the possibility that Maximus treated them the way he did in the past to deceive them. After all, Abelбн and the Grimsbanne n seriously took Maximus''s kindness to the heart.

    They treasured it, and they see it as one of the reasons the Originals didn''t turn evil. At least Abel didn''t turn evil on the maind.

    "With that being said, I will not hold back." All the emotions Abel had for Maximus slowly disappeared from his eyes, reced with nothing but his will to end him. "Because regardless of the old times'' sake and how things went down to this, you touched my wife."

    "Since you cannot and is unwilling to return her life, then nothing can save you." The blood dripping from Abel''s fingertips didn''tnd on the floor. Instead, it hovered in the middle, creating a weapon made of blood.

    "Bloodбн art," rolled out of Abel''s tongue, whispering.

    As soon as he made that call, the blood instantly honed into a sharp red sword with visible spikes on it. For a moment, both of them stood on their spot wordlessly, observing each other.

    Oneбн

    Twoбн

    Threeбн

    When they drew another breath, both of them disappeared from their vantage point, only to reappear in the middle.

    CLASH!

    A loud explosion of aura erupted in the air, making the walls shake and shattering the windows. And just like that, a battle that would change the currents in the maind ensued.

 Chapter 782 It Was Usually The Opposite

    Both young men''s waves ofughter brought harmony to the quiet night. The night sky they were staring at sparkled with a thousand glorious lights.

    "How glorious," the young Abel, lying t on his back on the vast green within the royal pce, grinned from ear to ear. "I can lie down here for days and stare at it."

    "Pfft бк" Maximus chuckled, ncing at the young man beside him. "How is that possible? The night onlysts for a few hours."

    He slowly set his eyes on the sky, smiling. "Thenes the day. Do you know we vampires once couldn''t stand under the sun?"

    "Isn''t that the reason we are fond of the night?" Abel also set his eyes on the sky. "Sun took away our freedom, but then, the night give it back."

    "But more than the natural sentiments we have for the night, shouldn''t we appreciate daytime more?" The corner of Maximus''s lips curled up into a candid smile. "Because basking under the scorching heat only reminds us of how we were able to regain our freedom."

    "I don''t see the point, but I respect your perspective."

    "Haha."

    There was a moment of silence between the two of them, keeping their gaze on the sky full of stars. Their lips were still curled up into a smile, indulging in the peaceful silence that would constantly get disturbed by the humming of the wind.

    Back then, Abel and Maximus had a great rtionship. It wasn''t Maximus''s delusion, for they were each other''s dearest friend. Well. Maximus was Abel''s only friend on the maind.

    There were days and nights the two of them would simply idle just like this time, appreciating the scenery. No fear of anything and just rxing. During these times, there was never a second Abel would think that the two of them would have some bad blood. They werepatible and mostly agreed on most things.

    At least, for Abel, fighting Maximus around this time didn''t cross him. He wasn''t sure about Maximus. Either way, even if Maximus wasn''t genuine all this time, Abel wanted to preserve this memory.

    A memory of his first friend.

    *

    *

    *

    Abel and Maximus exchanged blows. Each time their swords make contact with each other, their attacks grew stronger. For several long minutes, only the spark of their swords could be seen, until Abel sent Maximus flying by kicking thetter on his abdomen.

    Maximus flew out of the concrete wall, crashing to the ground, creating a long hollow line. However, just before he could stand back on his feet, a sword was pressed on his nape.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Hahбн" Maximus scoffed, kneeling on one knee while his arm was resting on his other thigh. "Do it. Kill me."

    Abel pressed the tip of his red sword against Maximus''s nape. "Do you think I won''t?"

    "If you n to, you would''ve done it," Maximus spat out, smirking wickedly while Abel maintained his emotionless countenance. A full minuteter, Abel withdrew his sword from Maximus and took a step back.

    Taking it as an expected action, Maximus let out a serious of deviousughter. Whileughing, he slowly assisted himself up, turning to face Abel.

    "Abel Grimsbanne," Maximusughed, shaking his head mildly. "I must admit I would''ve died thrice if only you nned to kill me. However, you can''t."

    His smirk stretched broader, raising his own sword to the side of his neck. "Because if you kill me, that means you''ll kill her. We''re in a blood contract, my friend. Did you think I wouldn''t make the most out of it?"

    "Not only she has to give me a portion of her life and powers, but her life is also connected to me. If I die, she''ll die. If she dies, I will still live," he continued with a tinge of jest in his voice. "I honestly overestimate her. I mean, I thought she would negotiateбн but she didn''t."

    "Do you know why, my friend?" Maximus''s eyelids drooped as a glint flickered across his eyes. "It''s your fault. I can still remember how she begged me on her knees just so I give back your heart. It was funny! Who would have thought carving out your heart was enough to make her beg?"

    "I meanбн it''s not that that matters. I can cut your limb, and you''ll just grow it back. Isn''t that what makes you special, Wrath?" Maximus added, this time, hissing as if this particr topic brought forth the deep resentment he hid for a long time. "Still, it works in my favor. She signed the blood contract, thinking she was saving you. Little did she know, she was saving no one."

    A wave of loud and evilughter followed Maximus'' remarks until he was hunching in. Meanwhile, Abel didn''t bulge. Instead, Abel simply let out a shallow breath, waiting for Maximus to recover fromughing.

    "Overestimateбн" whispered Abel when Maximus''sughter slowly subsided. "... I never met someone who knew my wife and would im they overestimated her. It was usually the opposite."

    "Huh?" Maximus lifted his sharp gaze back at Abel, grinning. "Well now, you did бк"

    Maximus froze because Abel suddenly appeared in mid-air and right in front of him. Abel''s sword was pointing back, ready to sh Maximus'' face at the drop of the hat. This time, Maximus''s breath hitched.

    Since starting this duel, this wasn''t the first time Abel caught Maximus off guard. However, Abel would usually change his mind or hesitate. This was the first time there was no hesitation in Abel''s eyes as his shoulders moved slightly, hinting Maximus he would cut him now.

    "You do not understand, Maximusбн" was thest words Maximus heard before a striking pain from the sword that went from his left shoulder down across his hip bit him as if it had razor teeth. "You do not know Aries. She was well aware I cannot die, no matter what."

    SLASH!

    Blood sshed on Abel''s face as the tip of his sword left Maximus'' flesh, making thetter drop to his knees, followed by an overwhelming shriek.

 Chapter 783 For Old Times Sake

    [ FORBIDDEN MANSION ]

    Aries''s coughing echoed across the chambers. She coughed and coughed until she was spitting out blood, clutching her chest tightly.

    "Hurtsбн" came out of her lips, slumped on the floor near the bed.

    Aries snapped her eyes at the ss of water ced on the bedside table. The heat and pain that suddenly struck her made her entire body boil, constricting her lungs as if something shed deep across her body. However, there was no blood on her body aside from the drop of blood on her palm because of her intense coughing.

    "Hahбн" her breathing grew heavier with each passing second. Soon, her vision started to blur. Droplets of sweat formed on her forehead, drenching her back and nape.

    Even before Aries could speak, act, or even think, she lost consciousness. Her bodynded on the floor with a thud, passing out on the cold floor with her palm open, revealing the blood on it.

    *

    *

    *

    Maximus shouted through his gritted teeth, wincing at the striking pain in his chest. Abel did it; Abel dared hurt him, knowing Aries would feel the same pain. On his knees, Maximus red up at Abel, only to raise his chin when the tip of Abel''s sword pressed into his nape.

    "Surprised?" Abel''s brows rose, tilting his head to the side. "Did you think I won''t hurt you just because you were in a blood contract with my wife?"

    A shallow chuckle followed Abel''s remarks. "Why? Because I hesitated in the beginning? Was that the reason you''ve grown cocky?"

    "Abel Grimsbanne."

    "Stop calling my name." Abel''s smile lines faded, pressing the tip of the sword on Maximus''s throat. "You are not worthy."

    "Hahбн" Hearing thosest remarks from Abel momentarily rendered Maximus speechless. "I am not worthy?"

    "Yes. A garbage like you only has one purpose in this world, and that is to pollute it." There wasn''t the slightest sign Abel found hisment funny, staring into Maximus''s eyes squarely. "I cannot believe you had fallen this low, Maximus. Instead of focusing on the real problems in thisnd, you were busy taunting and ming the Grimsbanne. Why?"

    "Do you think our years of silence made us pushovers? Or did you think that it was easier to me the Grimsbanne for what is happening in thisnd?" Abel continued out of pure curiosity, furrowing his brows in puzzlement. "If that is the case, then I can understand. After all, ming others was easier than epting that you are a failure."

    Maximus''s pupils dted, triggered by the word failure. How dare Abel, of all people, would call him a failure?<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Did you find my words offensive? Why? Because it was the truth and the truth always stings." Abel didn''t give Maximus a chance to spout his nonsense. He heard enough of it. "I told my wife years ago she shouldn''t worry about you. You are nothing. Yet, despite my warnings, she prepared for your arrival. Aries overestimated a loser like you."

    "Two yearsбн she gave you two years to correct your wrongs. But s, you took it for granted. What a waste" added Abel with an air of nonchnce. "I should''ve just ended you. You are nothing but a disappointment in this n. A disgrace. I cannot even look at you, Maximus. May your soul get engulfed by the eternal fire, forever."

    The second thest syble rolled out of Abel''s tongue, he thrust his sword into Maximus''s throat. However, just as Abel did, Maximus got a grip on his sword and deflected it. The des nged loudly.

    Maximus jumped from his standpoint, hopping several meters back until the distance between them was considered safe. The sh across his chest dripped with blood, drenching his clothes with nothing but red. Yet Maximus ignored the biting pain across his body.

    "I seeбн" Maximus rocked his head. "Silly me. To think that someone like you is capable of loving another more than yourself. Of course, you are the mighty Abel Grimsbanne! Such a thing as love isn''t enough to stop you!"

    "Think however you like." Abel disappeared from his vantage point, only to reappear behind Maximus. "Stop stalling and offer your neck."

    CLANG!

    Maximus turned around in the nick of time, blocking the de that was aiming straight at his nape. If Maximus was a secondter, his head would''ve fallen from his shoulders.

    Abel was serious. His attacks this time were meant to kill Maximus. What was worse than that was that Maximus was aware Abel wasn''t even fighting with everything he could. They were friends in the past and had sparred countless times; Maximus knew this wasn''t Abel''s limit.

    The two des between Abel and Maximus rattled, making Maximus clench his teeth at the heaviness from stopping Abel''s sword. Sweats broke out on Maximus''s back and forehead, clenching his teeth while mustering all his strength to repel him.

    "Ahhбн!" a loud shout escaped Maximus''s throat, pushing Abel back. However, he didn''t even recover yet when another ng rang in his ears, blocking another blow from Abel. "Abel Grimsbanne!"

    Maximus red at the person across from him, only to realize Abel was staring at him with a tinge of curiosity. There was no sign of struggle on Abel''s face, but rather, he looked amused. This sight made Maximus''s blood boil.

    Why?

    Why was this world so unfair? Abel couldze around his entire life, but he would still be stronger than Maximus. He didn''t need to train himself because he was already naturally talented and powerful.

    Meanwhile, Maximus had been training since upying the first official king of the maind. Even in this current Maximus IV, he had to train for many reasons. So why, against Abel, who did nothing in Haimirich but live a menial life, was still better than him?

    "Pity,"mented Abel, adding just a bit of strength which pushed back Maximus slightly. "That until now, you have such silly thoughts. For old times'' sake, I will end you quickly, and so it will be rtively painless."

    Abel drew a breath as the sclera in his eyes turned as ck as ink, while his irises shone in bright red. "It was nice knowing you, uncle. Now, die."

 Chapter 784 Me

    "You''re awake?"

    Maximus grunted as he blinked weakly until his vision grew clearer. What weed his eyes were the pair of green gazing down at him. Aries was squatting beside him while he wasying down on the grass where he fought Abel.

    "What are youбн" Maximus propped his elbow against the floor, assisting himself to sit up. When he raised his head, he looked around at the vast expanse. Abel was nowhere in sight.

    All there was Aries, squatting down beside him. Deep lines resurfaced in between his brows as he set his eyes back to Aries, frowning deeply. Meanwhile, her brows simply rose as they locked eyes with each other.

    "Are you happy now?" he asked, almost scoffing in ridicule.

    "Are you?" Aries cocked her head to the side, blinking almost innocently. "You can''t stand against Wrath. Not in a one-on-one battle."

    Maximus smirked, looking at her up and down. "I hurt him and that''s all that matters."

    "What a simpleton." Aries shook her head and sighed faintly.

    "Hahбн" Maximus copsed on his back, gazing at the starless night sky. "What a great night!"

    "You''re dead."

    "And still a great night." He cast her a quick look. "Are you not?"

    "Is the thought that I''m dead makes you happy?" inquired Aries out of pure curiosity, plopping her butt down on the grass.

    "Of course." He let out a shortugh, looking away from her. "Who wouldn''t? Aren''t you sad? He killed me, despite knowing killing me also means killing you."

    There was a long silence that descended the two after his remarks. When another minute had passed, Maximus nced at her. It wasn''t new to the two of them to spend time with each other. After all, they were once oathed to be betrothed to each other. However, what was rare was that they weren''t fighting.

    It was just silence. Pure silence.

    "It hurts," she whispered as her eyes fell on him. "Every time his de cut through your skin, it hurts. I screamed every time."

    "He doesn''t care about you, after all." Maximus snickered, pleased to see the slight sadness in her eyes. "But you shouldn''t be surprised. He is the type of person who only cares about himself. Don''t me him. me yourself for thinking all your sacrifices will bear fruit."

    "I never med Abel." His brows rose at her reply. "Not even once. "

    "Maximus, what made you think I will hate him just because he hurt you?" Aries continued, falling on her side until she wasying down beside him. She kept her eyes on his side profile, holding his side eye. "I wouldn''t be in pain if you didn''t make me sign that contract, after all."

    "Are you still purposely making excused for his actions?"

    "I am rationalizing our situation."

    "You are justifying his wrong deeds."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Think however you like." Her reply was quick. "I don''t have the spare energy to correct you. There''s no point in arguing with someone who already decided. I can''t bend that belief nor do I n to do so."

    The two of them stared at each other until Maximus rolled to his side, facing her squarely.

    "I don''t hate you," he said, propping his temple against his knuckles. "However, I don''t like you."

    "The feeling is mutual. I have nothing against you in the past. I just want you to stop bothering me."

    "Well, surprise? You''re stuck with me forever."

    Aries opened her lips but closed them again. For an entire minute, all she did was stare at his face. From then and now, Maximus looked sickly. No matter how powerful he would get, hisplexion was still pale, as if he would fall with the slightest push. He looked almost pitiful.

    "You remind me of Joaquin. I''m sure you know him." When Aries spoke, her voice was soft and calm.

    "Don''tpare me to that foolish human."

    "Do you know what caused his demise, Max?" she continued, ignoring his remarks, which were full of sarcasm. "His obsession. He ruined many people''s lives because of his obsession, and eventually, ruined his."

    Aries paused, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly. "That is why, when Abel told me about you the first time, I had this premonition. I dealt with people whose driving force was their obsession with things and people, and I know you will not stop."

    "After all, just like what you said, you''ve been watching us from the beginning. How I got out of that cage during the world summit, leading to my meeting with Abel. And then everything after that," she continued, sighing as she recounted the things that she never noticed in the past. "And even how a normal princess like me, who knows nothing about the creatures of the night, got a hold of Maleficent''s power."

    "You scared meбн" she added sincerely, making him smirk in satisfaction. "... initially."

    "Initially?"

    "Mhm. Initially. I know people like you will stop at nothing until you get what you want. And what you want is Abel; it doesn''t matter if he lives or dies for as long as they wouldn''t forget about you anymore," exined Aries calmly. "People like youбн it won''t matter if it''s hate or love. As long as you get a reaction from the people you want, that''s all that matters."

    "Is there a point in saying all this now? It''s over. You and Iбн are here already."

    "The point here isбн I dealt with someone like you before." Her voice was still hushed, but each of her words had distinct stress on them. "Maximus Hakebourneбн or should I call you Maximus Grimsbanne?"

    She blinked ever so slowly, waiting for his response. But when he didn''t answer, she just continued.

    "Did you remember, Maximus?" she inquired. "We made a bet that night two years ago. Do you remember?"

    Who would die first?

    That was the question, but no one answered that. At least no one answered that aloud.

    "I ced my stakes that night. Your answer is Abel, but did you know which name I spoke in my head?" she asked before the corner of her lips curled up. "Me."

 Chapter 785 Master Of Deception

    "Me."

    Maximus assessed the short smirk that turned up on Aries''s face. For some reason, his heart thudded. Never once in two years had he ever seen that smirk on her face. It wasn''t a wide smirk, but a subtle one. Yet, it was meaningful.

    "I am the first to die," Aries rified. "That is the only reason I begged you that night."

    Upon hearing that vague confession, Maximus and Aries were pulled to memory from two years ago.

    *

    *

    *

    "Well, I don''t think I want him dead as well. Now when he dies in the hands of another."

    Maximus closed into her, sinking his fangs into Aries'' neck for the first time. Her expression remained the same, fierce and unfaltering. Aries listened to his every gulp, sliding her eyes to the corner to see him.

    ''I will waitбн'' was what crossed her mind, blinking ever so slowly. ''... until the day youe and pull me out of this hell.''

    When Aries reopened her eyes, all the lingering emotions she had were locked in a ce that she wouldn''t be able to touch. That night, Aries signed a contract with Maximus, offering her life to him and the powers that were within her fragile body.

    After sessfully ''reviving'' Abel and putting his heart back, Aries was told to prepare, as they nned to set off in two days. Maximus was still busy looking for something; she didn''t pry what it was.

    The blood contract made Maximuscent, knowing Aries had no way of going anywhere else. Not that she was nning to go anywhere else. Hence, she obediently took his advice.

    Aries waltzed through the broken loggia within the emperor''s pce, stopping in the middle. Her eyes were fixed on the person standing several steps opposite her. She resumed her steps and then stopped again in front of Fabian.

    "Thank you," she expressed coldly. "If not for you, I would''ve ruined everything."

    "I told you to get yourself together."

    Aries rocked her head, breathing out calmly. "I''ll rest for tonight. They''re looking for something. Whatever that is, don''t let him get his hands on it."

    When those words rolled out of her lips, she didn''t idle. Aries walked past Fabian ever so slowly before she halted again.

    "They were looking for this shell," he said, looking back at her. "I believe this shell is someone very important to you, mydy."

    Her eyes narrowed as they glinted. "Conan."

    "Fret not. His Grace and my little miss already took care of it. I am simply letting you know lest you need these kinds of details."

    "I appreciate it." She nced over her shoulder. "I sincerely appreciate it."

    "You''re wee." His lips stretched, making his already squinting eyes squint even more.

    Aries set her eyes ahead, resuming in her steps. This time, her expression was sharper and her steps didn''t stop.

    "I will get us out of this mess, Fabianбн" she whispered, still feeling Fabian''s gaze on her. "... this ridiculous soul-matingбн hang on a bit."

    "How reassuring." Fabian chuckled as his eyes which were akin to curved lines, cracked open. "I guess we both disapproved of these chains."

    Fabian gazed down at his wrist. From the eyes of another, nothing was there. However, in his eyes, these heavy chains that bound him to Aries were an eyesore. He disliked it, and it was reassuring that Aries felt the same.

    *<novelnext></novelnext>

    *

    *

    [ PRESENT TIME ]

    Maximus''s irises went wide while his pupils constricted, staring at Aries nkly. Thetter maintained her unsmiling countenance but enjoyed his reaction after showing him a snippet of her memory. Something Maximus didn''t see that night.

    "Thank you for taking Maleficent from me of your own volition, Max." Aries sported a subtle smile, sincerely expressing her gratitude toward him. "If not for you, Maleficent will just take control over me and do whatever she wants to put this ''order'' she strongly believed."

    "With that includes hurting my husband and the entire Grimsbanne n," she continued. "I have no need for such powers, Maximus. Your greed and mine are different. You want powers and acknowledgment, perhaps, even revenge against those chosen Grimsbanne. But I want nothing but a peaceful life with my husband. Forever."

    Aries paused as her subtle smile turned bright. "Thank you for making that happen. I didn''t think it will only take two years to attain such a feat."

    Maximus''s heart thudded and before he could think about anything, he sprawled his arms toward her. He sprung up to his seat, pinning her down while strangling her. However, Aries felt nothing, no matter how tight his grip was.

    "Foreverбн" she repeated with a tinge of greed. "... that is what I want, and the only time I get it is if I get this witch out of me."

    Her lips curled up into a smirk as her eyes squinted. Aries lifted her hands to cup his lean face.

    "Oh, Maximus. Thank you very much!" Ariesughed, unable to contain her happiness. "Do you think you''re the only person who is obsessed with Abel? Hah! Goodness. How pitiful."

    Maximus gripped her neck tightly to stop her from spouting more nonsense, but s, herughter simply grew louder and louder. Herughter even starts to echo in this empty expanse.

    "Shut up," he warned through his gritted teeth, but she wouldn''t.

    "Hah! Hahaha!" Aries purposelyughed louder, almost wheezing. When she stoppedughing, Aries licked her lips. "I warned you. You better be good at deception, for that is my forte."

    "I said shut up!" Maximus retrieved his hand and punched her in the face. Aries''s eyes immediately bled, but she didn''t stopughing as if there was no pain. He punched her face once again, and then again, and again until specks of blood sshed on his face.

    Maximus punched her face until she was unrecognizable, breaking her jaw while he was panting for air. However, Aries still tilted her head to taunt him. And with that, he immediately knew it was futile. Even if he tear her with his own hands, she wouldn''t die.

    This was the afterlife, after all. The afterlifeбн they headed to was Maleficent''s world. It was just the two of them, and here she was, God.

    *

    *

    *

    [Present Time: Royal Pce, Maind]

    Blood dripped from the tip of Abel''s sword, standing motionless on his spot. A thud caressed his ears before this loud, rolling sound followed. His eyes fell on the severed head that rolled to his feet, snapping his eyes to the headless body before him.

    "Thank youбн" he whispered. "... for giving me the opportunity to be with her forever."

    The corner of his lips stretched as his eyes shone in bright red, knowing Aries just died along with Maximus. And for him, every deathбн didn''t mean death. It meant a new beginning for a longsting life.

    ****

    AUTHOR''s NOTE: see chapter 748 for reference.

 Chapter 786 I Just Want To Go Home

    Abel fixed his eyes on the severed head near his boots, watching blood leak from where it was cut. His expression was cold; there was no relief or joy in his eyes.

    The sound of footsteps soon caressed his ears. It grew louder and closer, along with the sound of metals. Soon, the vast quad was surrounded by royal knights. Their steps halted upon seeing just one figure standing in the middle. When their eyes fell on Abel''s opponent, their breath hitched as their eyes dted in horror.

    "Your Majestyбн" a knight called under his breath, darting his eyes on Maximus''s body and then at his head near Abel''s foot.

    Even though they couldn''t see Maximus''s face, thetter''s long hair, which was now drenched with blood, was enough to confirm who it was. They werete. How could this match end so soon? It had only been an hour or two since Abel came into the pce''s ground.

    "Unsheathe your sword!" a rapturousmand echoed in the quad, followed by the sound of metals leaving their leathers. In a blink of an eye, sharp des surrounded Abel.

    "You should''ve seenбн" whispered Abel, keeping his eyes on the severed head. "... that you didn''t need the Grimsbanne attention, for you are surrounded by people like them."

    Abel slowly lifted his gaze, scanning his surrounding. One look and he could tell that these knights were ready to charge at him, regardless if he was a Grimsbanne or the devil himself.

    "Sometimes, our greed blinds us from seeing the precious things we already have, my friend," he continued in the same tone. "This was something I learned outside of this territory. It was unfortunate you didn''t realize this."

    The tension in the quad consistently grew as the eyes of the knights glowed behind their helms. All of them assessed Abel from head to toe, wary of the slightest movement he would do. Of course, each one of them was aware that charging at Abel also meant death.

    They were vampires and, as vampires, they could sense that the man before them was far superior. Their numbers weren''t even in the negotiation. This was just a battle to honor their king; the man they all pledged to serve all their lives.

    "Don''t falter!" the same knight, who shouted at first, yelled once again, raising the little morale they have. "We are knights of the maind, and even if this man is a Grimsbanne, we have to fight and stop him from wreaking havoc!"

    Dexter already wreaked havoc in the opposite wing and was also the main cause of their dy. If Dexter didn''t stop his madness and suddenly left, they wouldn''t get here. Still, they might bete to save their king, but they could still do something about this man.

    They already believed Abel and Dexter would turn the maind upside down after killing Maximus. Hence, this thought fueled the knights to fight.

    The knights observed Abel with bated breaths, waiting for the signal to attack. Their grip on their swords tightened, ready to charge at the drop of a hat. However, just before the captain could give out the order, a figure suddenlynded several steps from Abel.

    "Stop it." London Leviticus raised a hand to stop the knights, knowing an order to their death would be announced. "This ends here."

    "Your Grace!" the captain yelled angrily. "What is the meaning of this?!"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I know His Majesty''s death angers you. However, there was no point in knocking on death''s door," exined London, keeping a calm countenance as he slowly lowered his hand. "We all know that even if there were thousands of you, your chances of winning against this man are slim."

    London glossed his eyes over the knights, giving them equal attention. "Waging a war when your king is already dead is simply foolish."

    "Presumptuous!" the captain roared, his voice echoing. "London Leviticus, do not overstep! We are knights, and as knights of the king, stay out of our way."

    London sighed helplessly as his shoulders rxed. When he took a step, all the knights thrust their swords defensively. Hence, he raised both his hands in surrender.

    "I meant no harm, captain." He slowly reached for his sword, moving like a snail so they wouldn''t attack him. London slowly put his sword to the ground, raising his hands over his shoulders once again as he carefully straightened his back.

    "Let''s talk," offered London.

    This time, when London took another step, the knights didn''t react. His steps were careful, stopping when he got a bit closer to them, but not too close. Just enough for them to see the sincerity in his eyes and words.

    "His Majesty is dead," was the first word that came out of London''s lips, bringing this scornful look to the knights'' faces. "But that didn''t mean the maind would be. It only means the end of his regime. Those living had to move forward and follow the cycle of life."

    Obviously, London''s remarks didn''t please anyone. Even he wasn''t satisfied with it, knowing they weren''t enough to stop these knights.

    Maximus might be a piece of trash for Abel and Aries and everyone in the Haimirich Empire. However, he was a wise king to his people. Maximus was clever enough to gain the trust and loyalty of his subject. Thus, speaking ill about him would totally get the opposite reaction from them. London could only do what he could to prevent more casualties.

    "I know бк" London stopped when a sudden sense of dread crawled up his spine. He looked back at Abel on instinct, wide-eyed.

    There, Abel was still standing in the same spot. He didn''t move a muscle. However, the aura he was emanating was enough to make everyone fall to their knees. If these knights weren''t properly trained, they would immediately drop to their knees. However, London was certain Abel only needed to pull a stronger aura on them and they would be on their knees.

    "Stop," was all Abel said. "Don''t waste your life on something so pointless. There''s no point in getting hurt for no damn reason."

    The aura that embraced everyone in the quad slowly disappeared as Abel turned on his heel to walk away.

    "I just want to go home." His voice was quiet. The red sword in his grip slowly disintegrated into a red mist, shrouding his arm. "Don''t bother me and my family, and I won''t."

 Chapter 787 Where Did It Go?

    "I just want to go home. Don''t bother me and my family, and I won''t."

    Abel sauntered off without looking back. Confidence shrouded his figure, stopping a few steps from the knights where he would take his leave.

    The knights held their swords with trembling hands, staring at Abel for a second. In the end, their swords lowered, and they stepped aside, making way for him.

    Abel said nothing as he resumed his steps, walking past the knights without a word.

    Meanwhile, London kept his eyes on Abel''s retreating back and sighed. He nced over his shoulder to see the reaction of the captain. Thetter was still frowning, bearing this grim expression. However, the captain didn''t do anything.

    ''I''m guessing that''s all they need to understand the situation,'' thought London, setting his eyes back in the direction Abel was taking. ''Wellбн no matter how stubborn they were, against that man, it would end in a minute time frame.''

    That aura Abel pulled on them simply revealed the difference in his strength and all these knightsbined. It wasn''t like the knights weren''t capable. Matter of fact, the maind could just send a thousand knights on a battlefield and would still win the war.

    But Abel was different.

    ''I didn''t thinkбн there''s still more room to get stronger.'' London mentally sighed, recalling that Abel wasn''t this strong in the past. Abel was strong, butpared to now, Abel just announced to everyone around that as long as he exists, one couldn''t sleep peacefully.

    After all, Abelбн seemed to have reached the peak to control all vampires.

    A true king.

    And that also warranted many enemies who disliked the idea of such a "vile" existence.

    "Now that Maximus is goneбн just what would happen now?" London gazed heavenward, having this gut feeling, things were far from over. "Goodnessбн I am scared."

    ******

    Abel didn''t stay long on the pce grounds, flying back to the Forbidden Forest where he left his wife. His expression was still stern, unsmiling. It didn''t take long for him to reach the clearing where the mansion stood.

    Abelnded on the clearing safety, marching through the main doors. The door creaked as he pushed them open, followed by a thick silence once he crossed the threshold. Aside from his footsteps, nothing resonated in the mansion. Not even Aries''s breathing.

    Soon, he reached his room where he left her. The moment he pushed the door open, his eyes fell on the bed. The quilt was creased on top of the empty bed. Moving his gaze, he caught a figure lying on the floor.

    "Darling," whispered Abel, marching inside the room.

    Abel squatted down beside Aries, carrying her in his arms. His eyes scanned her paleplexion. There was blood in her nightdress and palm. Aries was not breathing anymore, making his grip on her shoulder and leg tighten.

    "You''re still warm," whispered Abel, moving her up to carry her properly.

    Without a word, Abel marched outside the chamber. The door was already left ajar, giving him easy ess to leave. Marching through the silent hallway, his expression remained the same. His steps were neither fast nor slow, it was just enough for him to reach his destination in time.

    Soon, Abel a small chapel within the mansion grounds. It was situated on the farthest wing, almost like an extension of the mansion.

    Abel stopped by the entrance of the chapel, gazing at the altar that had nothing on it but a stone coffin. A deep exhale slipped past his tight lips, resuming his steps. When he was in front of the coffin, he gazed down to see nothing in it.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Abel carefully put her down inside the stone coffin.

    "Let''s do this once," he whispered once Aries wasying inside the coffin, caressing her cheek with the back of his hand. "Foreverбн is what we promise."

    His lips curled up into a subtle smile as his eyes softened, brushing the corner of her lips with his thumb.

    Forever.

    How he wished for her death every single day since he met her. It was just that when Abel realized that there was a witch inside her; he knew her turning her would be difficult. He didn''t like the risk. But now that Aries managed to take a huge portion of the witch within her, the chances were more than enough.

    "I''ll see you soon, Aries." Abel retrieved his hand carefully.

    His hands rested on the rims of the coffin, eyes on her. When a minute had passed, he raised both his hands in front of her. Using his left hand and sharp nail, he shed across his other palm. Abel immediately gripped his hand, putting his first over her lips, and letting his blood drip into her lips.

    Considering he had been feeding her a portion of his blood since the beginning and even suck her blood, theirpatibility would be high.

    The soundless sound of blood dripping into her dry lips resonated in the quiet chapel with Abel standing beside the stone coffin. And as the darkness enveloped them, Abel began to chant under his breath, giving birth to an existence many would want to kill.

    ********

    [ Back to the Royal Pce, Maind ]

    Minutes after Abel left, the knights dropped their swords in defeat. They couldn''t even try after all that determination they mustered to face a Grimsbanne. However, for the sake of peace, they had to swallow the bitter defeat and shame.

    As the knights dispersed, London stayed in the quad, watching the knights. After some time, he approached Maximus''s remains. The captains and a few knights were already picking his body so they could hold a proper funeral for him.

    "Huh?" London furrowed his brows, looking around the quad. When he couldn''t find what he was searching for, he approached the captain, who was assisting the other knight to hold the King''s remains properly and with respect.

    "Captain, have you seen a ck and red sword?" asked London, making the captain raise a brow.

    "What sword?"

    "The one thatбн" London trailed off, seeing that the captain had no idea. "Nothing. Go on. I''ll help you prepare for the royal funeral."

    London waved dismissively, turning around to avoid the captain''s investigative gaze. As soon as he turned around, horror and panic resurfaced in his eyes. Surely, Abel left without looting that vile sword Maximus used to fight him.

    No one was here, aside from Abel, before the knights came.

    And that left an enormous question mark on his head.

    Where did that sword, which was created with Maleficent''s power, go?

    ''I don''t like this feelingбн'' London shook his head, wide-eyed, storming away to give a secret order for a search. ''... if the wrong person gets a hold of that sword, this time, it might be a real problem.''

 Chapter 788 Why Are You Just Saying This Now?

    [HAIMIRICH EMPIRE]

    "Tilly, what is it?" Samael looked back at Tilly, stopping in his track on their way out of the pce. His brows knitted while the rest who were with them also stopped.

    "Is there something wrong?" Lilou, Samael''s wife, inquired worriedly after assessing Tilly.

    Everyone turned their attention to Tilly, waiting for her to answer. Meanwhile, Isaiah didn''t have a choice but to stop as well. However, unlike these Grimsbannes''s concerns, he had a different thought.

    ''Mathilda Grimsbanne didn''t even say anything,'' thought Isaiah, observing the people he would travel with before setting his attention to Mathilda. ''Nor did she show anything wrong.''

    But then again, Isaiah couldn''t judge. He would be the same as Abel because even if Abel wouldn''t say anything, Isaiah would detect if there was something that was bothering his king.

    "I forgot to tell Abel," came out Tilly''s tiny voice, and for some reason, Isaiah couldn''t understand the sudden horror that dominated everyone''s faces.

    "What did you forget to tell him?" Samael inquired in distress, almost gasping.

    Tilly blinked. "I forgot."

    "..."

    "Ughбн Tilly, just what is wrong with your head?" ude, the young man who was also Tilly and Abel''s grandchild, pinched the bridge of his nose. "Didn''t Mister Fabian open up your skull to fix that habit?"

    "Tilly, we already talked about this," this time, Sunny''s big brother, Law, frowned. "That if there''s something important you recalled, tell me immediately lest you forget about it."

    Rufus, the blonde-haired man, sighed. "I guess we just have to anticipate another problem."

    "Why?" Isaiah blurted out, biting his tongue when he realized it. He watched everyone look back at him and sighed, shaking their heads as if they were all having problems.

    They were truly a strange bunch, thought Isaiah.

    "Your Grace, that is because Tilly knows many things," exined Sunny in a knowing tone.

    "Problem is, even though she knows a lot of important things, she tends to forget them," Law continued before ude added, "not that she really forgets them. She''s just toozy to use her head."

    "..." Isaiah wanted to reply and ask Tilly, but his lips remained pressed into a thin line. All he could do for a moment was stare at them without a word.

    What would he say?

    "Forget it." Samael waved dismissively. "Forcing her to remember is just a waste of time. Let''s just hope my uncle won''t be in trouble."

    "I agree." His wife, Lilou, nodded. "Let''s just continue. Since we already secured this ce, even with His Grace''s absence, it''s best to return to the maind."

    "Well. My grandpa seems reliable with those gigantic wings." ude shrugged, agreeing with them.

    With that being said, they resumed their steps as if things were just as easy as that. But then again, they couldn''t do anything about it. Hence, Isaiah also followed them. However, just as they took three steps, they all stopped when Tilly spoke quietly.

    "The king isn''t the most influential on the maind." Everyone looked back at Tilly with furrowed brows.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Huh?" Samael arched a brow. "What did you say?"

    "Abel shouldn''t kill the king." Tilly blinked ever so slowly, lifting her gaze to Isaiah. "Maximus might be like that, but he isn''t a bad person. His existence put everyone at bay. If he dies, everyone bound to their pledge from not touching the Grimsbanne will be nulled."

    Samael opened and closed his mouth, but he couldn''t force out a word in disbelief.

    "Why are you just saying this now?" he asked when he was able to force a word out of his mouth.

    "I thinkбн we might bete," said Isaiah, keeping his eyes on Tilly. "He might''ve killed himбн as we speak."

    "Isn''t that obvious? I don''t think my grandpa has very long patience," ude chimed in, gazing at Tilly up and down. "Goodness, Tilly. Even if Ramin and Charlotte arrive on the maind before us, I don''t think they know about this."

    Tilly pressed her lips into a thin line, unfazed by the reaction she got. "There''s also a demon there."

    "What? You''re not yet done?" Samael gasped in horror. His mouth was wide open. "Just what else do we need to know?"

    "The demon was stolen years ago."

    "..."

    Isaiah held his breath. As a warlock himself, he knew about demons. ck magic originated from the energy of devils and evil, after all. However, since he never saw a real demon, he believed that energy wasing from underneath the ground. From what people called Hell.

    "There were three of them." Tilly raised three fingers, starting from her index to the ring finger. "We already took down one in Spade. The other one was in the possession of the royal family, and then thest one went missing. Without the king, that demon hidden in the underground pce under the pce ground will be left unguarded."

    "And no one knew about it aside from the king and me. I got lost there once," she added in a knowing tone. "I think Fabian uncovered that somehow before you left."

    Silence followed the bombs Tilly dropped on them. They could only stare at her nkly for a moment, knowing even if they already knew this detail now, it was toote for them. It would still take days before they arrive in thatnd, after all.

    "Oh, my godбн" Samael breathed out helplessly, shaking his head while keeping his eyes on her. "... are we doomed?"

    "Hopefully not," ude answered, giving Tilly a look of disbelief.

    "We are doomed," Law and Sunny mumbled. "For sure."

    "It''s alright." The children gazed up at their mother, seeing her subtle and reassuring smile at them. "We''ll find a way to fix things. Let''s just hope Fabian uses his head."

    "Hopefully, but he has a habit of letting things slide just to see the oue." This time, Fabian''s brother Rufus joined in the conversation.

    "Hey!" suddenly, everyone''s thoughts halted when they heard Conan''s voice from the end of the hallway. "What are you guys doing here? A meeting without me?"

    Everyone let out a deep sigh at the sight of Conan in his shy attire.

    "I guess we can only hope that the maind doesn''t blow up before we arrive," mumbled Isaiah, knowing Abel didn''t have the patience to let Maximus live. "Though, I doubt бк why is he even wearing such shy clothes?"

    "What a waste of money," was all they could say about Conan, shaking their heads, as that was all they could do for now.

 Chapter 789 The Underground Palace

    [ Maind: Royal Pce ]

    Although the fight between Abel and Maximus was silent, the opposite wing was the total opposite. Gustav and Suzanne wreak havoc because they had to free all of Aries''s people. Except for Suzanne and Gustav, Aries and the witches were held captive.

    Aries might be the queen and held significant powers. However, the witches from the Haimirich Empire were all imprisoned. Some of them were able to escape, but the majority of them, including the night council, were imprisoned.

    "It''s been a while, Your Holiness." Suzanne lowered her head slightly at the witch who came out of the cellst. "Her Majesty would be pleased to see you again."

    Marcia Graves, a member of the night council, gazed at Suzanne from up and down.

    "How about the king?" was the first question the witch asked the queen''s trusteddy-in-waiting.

    "He was currently fighting with the emperor."

    Marcia Graves let out a deep exhale, but she couldn''t discern if that were a sigh of relief or something else.

    "Do not worry. We prepared a ce for the witches. Meet Sir Gustav at the end of the queen''s wing. He''ll meet you all there," Suzanne instructed, but the high priestess of the night council shook her head.

    "No." Marcia shook her head. "We have to stop His Majesty. I think there''s something wrong in this ce."

    Suzanne furrowed her brows before she blurted out. "There is, for sure, and that was the king. Your Holiness, we do not have time. Please, if you want to get out of here and still see Her Majesty, follow my instruction."

    The old witch''s lips parted, but she ended up closing them again. Her hesitation was the most significant sign she should follow Suzanne''s instructions. After all, Marcia wasn''t sure herself.

    Suzanne ushered all the captive witches outside of the castle where they were imprisoned, keeping quiet as they passed through the dead knights loitering the hall. When they were outside, Suzanne gazed up at the sky and let out a deep exhale.

    ''I wonder if the Marquess found it.''

    *********

    Dexter stood quietly in a room that was highly secured by Maleficent''s powers. He had been standing outside for quite some time after helping Suzanne and Gustav rescue the witches. One thing the marquess knew was that when Abel in Maximus, the wall before him would reveal the hidden door.

    And it did.

    Only after several minutes, the wall slowly revealed the door no one could see because Aries concealed it.

    There was only one thing Dexter wanted, and that was to kill Maximus. However, since Abel would be handling the said man, he had to do something that would be beneficial to their side.

    Little did Dexter know he was in for a surprise.

    "Marseбн" whispered Dexter, staring into the unlocked chains in the corner of the room. "... who freed her?"

    Dexter didn''t look around at the dark room where not a single candbra was lit. He didn''t need to. Marse''s scent lingered, but her presence wasn''t around anymore. Dexter marched towards the chains and cuffs left on the floor that were still attached to the wall, squatting down to touch the droplets of blood on the floor.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Using two fingers, Dexter touched the blood and rubbed it against his finger.

    The blood was still fresh.

    His eyes followed the trails of blood, only to be left disappointed. The blood trail only lead a few steps from where Marse was held captive before it stopped there.

    Dexter sniffed hard to get a whiff of another lingering scent. It was faint, but distinct. And for obvious reasons, his heart thudded. Aside from the fact Marse was freed or abducted, how the culprit behind this was able to get into this room was someone they couldn''t underestimate.

    "This is bad," whispered Dexter, rising from his spot to walk to where the blood trail stopped.

    Were those people Marse''s friends? Or were they another faction who were against the Grimsbanne? What would they gain from Marse? The possibilities and questions were unlimited, and soon Dexter figured it was pointless to ponder about it.

    He set his eyes back to where Marse was held captive, gripping his sword tightly. "Thisбн is tiring."

    *********

    Meanwhileбн

    Careful footsteps resonated in the narrow and dark staircase as Fabian took a step down. His steps, although calm and slow, were unfaltering. Despite the pitch darkness ahead, he walked as though he wasn''t afraid of meeting a dead end or bumping into something.

    His expression was in and dull, taking the long stairs going down. Soon, he reached a hallway where he waltzed through in silence. Soon, he reached two gigantic doors as if it was meant for a colossal creature to use.

    Fabian stopped before it, gazing up at it until his head waspletely tossed back. If the gates of hell were true, it wouldn''t be farfetched to think it would look something like this. Except, the gates of hell were supposed to be engulfed by an eternal fire of damnation.

    "How huge," hemented about the door that existed under the royal pce grounds. "Intriguing."

    Fabian raised his arm ever so slowly, nting his palm on the surface of the door. With how gigantic the doors were that he appeared like an ant, he assumed it would take a lifetime of strength to open him. Surprisingly, though, he didn''t need to exert so much effort as the door creaked extremely loudly. Just its creak alone was enough to send a chill down one''s spine, but not a person like Fabian.

    The door just slightly opened, but Fabian could fit through without a problem. When he stepped inside the other side of the door, everything was just bright. It was theplete opposite of the path on the way here, where it was engulfed by nothing but darkness.

    Fabian lifted his eyes, looking around at his surrounding.

    The space beyond the enormous doors and underground the pce grounds was a vast space built on white marble and jade. There were pirs around, forming a circle with huge spaces in between. But what caught Fabian''s eyes were the huge chains attached to each pir, now dangling on the side, and that stone altar in the middle of the pirs.

    Fabian marched toward it at his own discretion, stopping beside the altar. When his eyes fell on it, his expression turned cold. He caressed the edges of the altar, only to see snippets of someone struggling while people were cruelly pinning her on this very altar.

    After a second, Fabian snatched his hand back as if he touched a hot surface, hissing heavily.

    "A sacrificial altar," he murmured, gazing at the altar that had dried blood on it. He lifted his head, recalling the snippets he just saw. In those visions, he caught something huge hovering over this altar. "Where did it go?"

    With all the missing things and people on the night of Maximus''s death, deep in everyone''s hearts, they knew things were far from over. Maximus wasn''t the least of their concerns, but those who had been hiding behind the power of the king to move freely without getting noticed. o

 Chapter 790 Congratulations, Darling.

    [ FORBIDDEN FOREST: THE GRIMSBANNE MANSION ]

    Moving scriptures crawled all over Aries''s body, stretching out of the stone coffin to the floor of the chapel. As these ancient texts moved as if they had their consciousness, Abel''s lips continued to move, chanting words only he could understand.

    When his lips stopped, his shut eyes slowly cracked open. His gaze instantly fell on her, watching the scriptures surrounding her skin like flowers. He followed the text with his eyes until he was staring at his shoes.

    Underneath him was akin to a pool of darkness as if he could fall in it if he was a little lighter. Yet, there was no sign of fear on his face. The scriptures continued to crawl around the chapel until half of it was covered with darkness.

    "Don''t make me wait for too long," he whispered, caressing her cheek with the back of his fingers. "I''ve waited long enough, darling."

    His eyelids drooped until they were partially closed, keeping his lips in a thin line. He kept his gaze on her for some time before his brows rose, ncing over his shoulder.

    No one was inside the chapel within the mansion. However, the glint in his eyes appeared as though there was someone inside with him.

    "Do not disturb me." His voice was quiet and calm, but the intimidation in it was easily detected. "I''m already letting you all run wild tonight. Don''t push your luck."

    In the dark in the corner, a figure slowly appeared out of nowhere. The figure has a short stature and lean physique. Her hair was long that fell on her back; her eyes were wide open, but her irises were clouded with a thinyer of white. Even with her blindness, she was facing Abel''s direction as if she could see him clearly.

    "Abel Grimsbanne," called the woman with a soft yet chilling voice. "Stop this."

    Abel didn''t respond, keeping his eyes on Aries inside the coffin.

    "There is nothing good in turning her into a vampireбк"

    "Scram." Abel maintained his calm.

    "I am simply saying this for old times'' sake, Abel," continued the woman solemnly. "Now that Maximus was out of the picture, you''ll be next. You and your family. I am not fond of the queen, but I am unbiased. She doesn''t deserve a second chance in life. Especially, if that second chance is a mere chance to witness how you and the Grimsbanne fall."

    "Ameria is no longer here to protect you. Maximus is no longer here to cover for you. The Grimsbanne was all on their own, and thus, I am asking you to leave thisnd. Live a quiet life in a ce where no one else can touch you," she added in the same hushed yet firm tone. "I am giving you a chance."

    ''A chanceбн'' Abel repeated in his head, almostughing. If not for the fact he was trying to revive Aries, he would have had enough energy tough out loud.

    What a ridiculous grace this woman was speaking.

    "This is thest time I will say this." Abel slowly turned around, facing the woman in the dark corner. "Scram. Don''t make me say it the third time because I''m afraid your head will fall off your shoulder even before you can hear me say it."

    "Don''t make me tell you I told you so," said the blind woman, showing no sign of fear under Abel''s gaze.

    A dryugh slipped past Abel''s lips, gazing at her from head to toe.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Weren''t Iбн living as quietly as a dead rat?" his brows rose briefly. "For many years, I stayed away from the maind and from you people. I never interfered with anyone and yet, you stepped foot in mynd and did as you please, forcing me to return to this vilend. The audacity to speak about chances."

    "I do not need Ameria''s protection nor Maximus to cover for meбн" the corner of his lips curled up into a smirk. "You know that, Giselle. I can''t believe you''re still a hypocrite even after I took your eyesight. It seemed you didn''t learn your lesson, after all."

    Abel paused, assessing her from up and down. "It should be I who should give those warnings. Ameria is no longer here to protect you and Maximus is no longer alive to shield thisnd. Do not test me, Giselle. You, of all people, know what I am capable of. Isn''t that the reason you rushed in here yourself?"

    "I warned you," Giselle repeated calmly, unfazed by his taunting. "Things had changed, Abel."

    Giselle kept her clouded eyes at his figure, taking a step back after a moment. She idled, holding his gaze without a change of expression before slowly bing one with the shadow.

    Abel kept his eyes on where Giselle disappeared to; his expression turned colder by the second.

    "Things had changed, huh?" he whispered, turning around to face Aries''s coffin. "It sure did. I won''t be king next time."

    He nted his hand on the rim of the open coffin, eyes on Aries. "Not this timeбн I have so much thing to lose and to protect, Giselle."

    Silence slowly enveloped the entire chapel as darkness reigned in it. The moving scriptures on the floor crawled their way onto the walls, painting them ck and soon red. The malicious presence around the mansion slowly dissipated until there was nothing he could feel anymore.

    Abel never took his eyes off of Aries, listening to the hum of silence. He stood there for hours without moving a muscle, letting the blood on his fingertip drip inside the stone coffin. After a long time, a loud heartbeat interrupted the deafening silence.

    The corner of his lips curled up into a subtle smile while his eyes softened. Her chest started moving up and down, albeit faint. At the same time, the scriptures that painted the entire chapel with a mix of ck and red ink seemed to have been sucked into the stone coffin where Aries was in.

    As this darkness crawled its way back to the stone coffin, Aries''s paleplexion turned better and better. However, her green hair gradually turned white, just like how his dark hair shifted to its original color. The trademark of the Grimsbanne.

    One secondter, Aries suddenly snapped her eyes, revealing a pair of crimson orbs shining brightly with hunger and thirst. Her lips parted slightly and a bit of blood dripped from the side of her lips,ing from her gums as two short yet sharp fangs peeked from her gaping lips.

    "Congrattions, darling." Abel reached his hand out to her ever so slowly. "Nowбн you are stuck with me forever."

    Just before his hand could make contact with her face, Aries suddenly grabbed his arm and pulled him down. She lifted her body up, and without a moment''s notice, she sank her teeth into his neck to soothe the dryness of her throat, the grumble in the pit of her stomach, and the soreness of her gums.

    Despite her aggressiveness, Abel simply nted his hand on the back of her head. His eyes slid to the corner before his lips curled up into a smirk. Her everyrge gulp echoed in his ear, amplifying the burning desire in his crimson eyes.

    With the birth of another powerful vampire, the people surrounding the forbidden forest gazed upon the quiet mansion. Their eyes bore the same determined resolution as those of individuals like London, Dexter, Fabian, and Suzanne; the same fire as those journeying to the maind.

    бк End of Volume 5 бк

 Chapter 791 Meow

    WELCOME TO VOLUME 6!

    PROLOGUE

    [ Hell is empty. All the devils are here. ]

    William Shakespeare

    ********

    Aries sat under the linden tree, hugging her knees, eyes up. She had been in this ce more times than she could ever count. She used to think that being in this ce was a nightmare, something she didn''t want to be in whenever she closed her eyes. However, over time, she somehow earned this sense of familiarity with this ce.

    "They''re not here anymore," she whispered, staring at the leaves and branches. "They used to be here."

    There was only one time she came into this ce the woman hanging upon the tree disappeared. Seeing that the ropes and the bodies were gone, Aries felt this slight sense of relief.

    "I wonder... if they were now resting." Her eyes softened, deluding herself that those women who were persecuted unjustly had attained the peace they sought.

    "You''re here."

    Suddenly, a familiar voice of a woman rang behind her. Aries looked back, only to see Maleficent smiling back at her subtly. But Aries''s focus didn''t dwell on her, shifting her eyes to the other women standing behind Maleficent.

    "You..." Aries''s expression softened as the women smiled back at her.

    They chuckled and giggled, joining Aries under the linden tree. Despite that, Aries recognized them and remembered the spot where they got hanged in this same. She didn''t show the slightest fear. Aries was just d that these women could now smile in peace.

    Aries watched thedies take theirfortable spot under the linden tree; some of them werefortable enough to lie down, and use another woman''sp as a head cushion. Others would just chat happily as if they had no problem.

    Aries gazed up when Maleficent sat down beside her, offering Aries a kind smile.

    "It''s been a while since you visited," said Maleficent with a soothing voice, facing Aries squarely. "I thought you wouldn''t anymore."

    "I never intentionally go here," Aries confessed with a tone of correction. "It is you who always drags me into this ce."

    Maleficentughed. "Will you me me?"

    "No." Aries shook her head, keeping a subtle smile. "For some reason, I started to like this ce. Ironic because it is a symbol of your suffering, but it was a great reminder to me that I have to move forward. I''m d that I finally came here without putting the pieces of my heart together at the sight of everyone."

    The women around slowly turned their heads in Aries''s direction, smiling gently. Their eyes bore the softness and fondness of the current holder of Maleficent. The power that killed them all.

    "You are a good woman," said Maleficent after several seconds of silence. "I thought you hate me."

    "How can I?" Aries tilted her head to the side. "You did nothing wrong."

    She then shifted her attention to the peaceful countenance of the women around.

    "Your power within me indeed gave me a lot of trouble and suffering, but it is not like you were the one who forced that power into me," she continued, setting her eyes back to Maleficent. "It is not you, Maleficent. The people who were afraid of you, yet exploit your power. I think that is the reason everyone here doesn''t hate you."

    The women nodded in agreement, casting Maleficent a look.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Though I am a little curious as to why you summoned me in here," Aries added, refocusing her attention on the stunning woman, who was also known to be the most powerful witch of their kind.

    "Because this might be thest time I will see you." Maleficent didn''t beat around the bush, making her brows raise.

    "Does that mean I don''t hold you anymore?" Aries blurted out, making Maleficentugh. Thetter nced at the rest of the women, and they giggled before all of them set their focus on Aries.

    "You never got a hold of me, Aries," Maleficent rified. "The only reason you were able to suppress me was because of that man, Fabian."

    "Pardon?"

    Maleficent''s smile stretched broader. "If he didn''t hold me for the longest time, my powers that were within you wouldn''t know the idea of subservience. Even though it is just a portion of me, it is still me. The power is still mine, even if you chop it into millions of pieces."

    "I see..." Aries rocked her head in understanding, heaving a sigh of relief. "No wonder I felt such a strong reaction and attraction at the sight of him."

    "He posed himself as my master," Maleficent humored, making the women giggle. "Such a man... you can''t me me to fawn at him."

    Ariesughed, biting her lower lips. She couldn''t refute that, though. Fabian was charming in his own wicked ways.

    "Of course, it is different for you since Wrath had you dancing on the palm of his hand." Maleficent raised a brow briefly.

    "Abel isn''t that bad."

    "I never said he was... to you." Maleficent shrugged. "I am d that you are happy, Aries. That is all I want for you... and for them."

    She gazed at the women smiling back at her. Her eyes swirled with fondness as if she was a mother looking at her children with unconditional love. Seeing the softness in Maleficent''s eyes, Aries couldn''t help but stare at the woman with admiration and respect.

    Even though Maleficent was known to be a powerful being, she was just like the rest of them. The only difference was that she had the power to destroy anyone if she pleased.

    "Will I not see you again?" Aries inquired after some time, watching Maleficent look back at her.

    ? Thetter didn''t answer immediately, maintaining her reassuring smile. "Wrath... is quite a grand man, isn''t he? As well as possessive and territorial. He didn''t like other people within you -- it''s not like we want to co-exist with his vile blood iming everything as his."

    "Aries Grimsbanne." Maleficent raised a hand, cupping Aries''s cheek. She brushed Aries''s cheek with her thumb while her eyes swirled with affection. "My child. Remember what I said. No matter how they chop me into millions of pieces, it is still me. And I only remember our time together."

    Deep lines resurfaced in between Aries''s brows, assessing the loving gaze of Maleficent. Aries then shifted her attention to the women, only to see them sh her a smile before they slowly faded, one after another.

    "Maleficent, what are you --" Aries halted when Maleficent slowly stood, making the former gaze up.

    "It is time to leave," said Maleficent with a smile. "I wish you a good life, my child."

    With that being said, Maleficent sauntered off. When Aries grasped what was going on, she sprung up to her spot and called, "Maleficent!"

    Maleficent stopped, looking back at her. "Don''t call me that anymore, Aries. That isn''t my name -- I had decided to live without a name until someone give me one."

    Aries''s lips parted, but her voice was stuck in her throat. In the end, all she could do was watch Maleficent walk away leisurely. However, when Aries blinked, Maleficent was gone. Her eyes fell to the ground, only to see a ck, furry cat looking back at her with golden eyes.

    "Meow," the cat meowed softly before it walked away, leaving Aries all alone under the linden tree.

 Chapter 792 What Should We Do?

    A soft grunt slipped past Aries''s lips, opening her eyes ever so weakly. Her vision was still blurry, but she could see the shadows hovering over her. Another shallow grunt escaped her closed lips, blinking until her vision grew clearer.

    What weed her sight were adorable cheeks with a tint of pink and a pair of green doe eyes. Sunny blinked innocently before her face brightened up.

    "Grandmama!" Sunny''s adorable voice rang in Aries''s ears, making thetter wince.

    "Sunny, your voice."

    Suddenly, a young voice of a boy caressed Aries''s ears. She slowly shifted her eyes to Sunny, only to realize there was a young boy on the side. He had this bright silver hair that had the same color as Sunny, except his hair didn''t have a hazel streak like the little girl''s.

    "She just woke up," said the boy, setting his pair of deep crimson eyes back to Aries. "Keep your voice down."

    Sunny pouted but didn''t refute the little boy, looking at Aries lying on the bed. "Grandmama, how are you feeling?" asked Sunny in a quiet voice, smiling adorably, which made her pinkish cheek bounce slightly.

    Another short and weak moan escaped Aries''s eyes, propping her elbows on the mattress. Sunny and the boy moved away slightly, kneeling on either side of Aries. Aries looked from her left to right, shing Sunny a subtle smile as she patted the little girl''s head.

    "Grandmama, I missed you. Grandpa said you''d been sleeping for a week now," said Sunny, causing Aries''s brows to raise.

    ''That''s been a week nowбн?'' she wondered, aware that she hadn''t had much recollection of the past several days.

    "That is why I dragged my big brother here since we just arrivedst night! He wants to see you."

    "Big brother?" Aries mumbled, turning her head at the boy who was on the opposite side of Sunny. She blinked, assessing the boy closely this time. "You areбн?"

    "Law." The boy shed her a polite smile. "My name is Law. Sunny''s big brother. Nice to meet you, grandma."

    "..."

    Aries drew her lips into a thin line. ''What an overbearing name,'' she thought, keeping her thoughts to herself as she smiled.

    "I''m d to meet you too, Law. My name is Aries." She nced at Sunny for a moment. "Sunny told me things about you."

    "And I bet most of them are nder," humored Law, making Aries chuckle. "Please. Whatever my little sister told you, she''s lying."

    "I didn''t nder you." Sunny pouted, crossing her arms under her chest. "I only said good things about you. Right, grandmama?"

    Aries rocked her head. "That''s true. Sunny would usually say she missed her big brother."

    What Aries said wasn''t a lie. However, it was also true Sunny would usually nder her brother just to make herself look immacte. Sunny simply got away with everything because she knew how to use her charms to their full potential.

    "By the way, where is Abel?" Aries asked, stopping Law and Sunny''s banter. Her brows rose, darting her eyes between the children as the two looked back at her.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Sunny and Law looked at each other before setting their eyes back on Aries.

    ****

    Meanwhile, in the Grimsbanne mansion''s backyardбн

    "Listen here, Mathilda. How can you tell me all the important details after and not before?" Abel tapped his finger on the surface of the metal garden table, eyes on the meek woman across from him. "You seriously need to change that habit of yours. Especially now that you are a married woman. Be responsible."

    "What?" Conan gasped, sitting on the other side of the round table were Abel, Tilly (Abel''s sister), and Samael (Abel''s nephew and also the son of Ameria, Abel''ste sister). "You got married? Who was the lucky man?"

    "The warlock." Samael across from Conan pointed his thumb over his shoulder, even though Isaiah wasn''t around the area. "They got married the night you all woke up."

    "What?!" Conan harrumphed angrily.

    "What''s that reaction, dearest Conan?" Abel cocked his head to the side. "Don''t tell me you are infatuated with my sister?"

    "Of course!" Conan jumped from his seat and pointed a finger at Tilly. "Can''t you see how beautiful Lady Tilly is?! From head to toe, she''s pretty! No, her entire existence screams perfection! How can that damn warlock desire something that''s too big for his boots?!"

    Abel and Samael, who were listening to this, couldn''t help but scrunch their faces. It was obvious they didn''t have the same opinion as Conan about Tilly, staring at Conan in dismay. Meanwhile, Tilly didn''t have any reaction, as if all thepliments didn''t even go through her ears.

    "Damn it! That guy and that other she-male Londonбн" The invisible fire enveloping Conan zed at the thought of Isaiah and London, cracking his knuckles angrily. "... I''m going to teach those two a lesson."

    "I didn''t know Tilly is popr among men." Suddenly, a woman''s voice snapped Conan back to his senses. "But I agree with His Highness. Tilly is undeniably beautiful."

    Conan''s gaze fell on the woman with hazel locks that had the same color as those hazel streaks in Sunny''s hair. Lilou, Samael''s wife, and Sunny''s mother shed Conan a smile while she served snacks on the table.

    "His Grace is really lucky to have such a beautiful wife," she added, making Conan frown deeply.

    At this point, Conan and Isaiah had grown familiar with the rest of the Grimsbanne family, as he had traveled with them on their way to the maind. There was only one description Conan could say about them; they were folks a person such as Conan would get along with.

    "Love, you are such a cruel woman." Samael couldn''t help but look at his wife in dismay. "How can you say Isaiah is lucky with such a gorgeous smile? I feel sorry for the guy."

    "Sam, shut up while I''m asking nicely," Lilou warned with a soft voice, making Abel shake his head.

    "Nephew, dearest, you better listen to her." Abel chimed in, watching Samael look back at him with a frown. "You will never win."

    "I think I''ve been married longer than you are. I know." Lilou chuckled at her husband''s response, straightening her back as she held the tray. "If you need counseling for your marriage, just ask me. I''ll fix it for you right away бк right, let''s not forget why we are gathered here."

    Samael cleared his throat, setting his eyes on Tilly. "What should we do?"

 Chapter 793 Best Way To Deal With Problems? Relax.

    "What should we do?"

    Tilly pressed her lips into a thin line, seeing that all their eyes were on her once again. Patience filled everyone''s eyes, hoping her silence meant she was pondering about it and not just pure silence.

    When another minute had gone by, an abrupt noise and the appetizing scent of meat wafted everyone''s noses. Everything instinctively raised their eyes to Fabian, only to see his bright smile that made his eyes mere slits.

    "Please. Do not pressure Lady Tilly that much. Here, have some snacks бк"

    "Hey, Fabian. I heard you''ve idled in the Haimirich Empire for half a year before you showed up." Samael cut Fabian mid-sentence, crossing his arms while leaning backfortably. "I shouldn''t have trusted Sunny with your hands."

    ? "The young miss was spoiled rotten in the pce."

    "Even so, this guy right here is practically a stranger." Samael pointed at Abel with his thumb. "How can you trust him?"

    "You don''t trust me?" asked Abel to Samael, watching thetter look back at him.

    "Dearest Uncle, do you think you have the face even the devil will trust?"

    Just as Abel''s lips parted, Conan jumped in, saying, "he is the devil."

    "Exactly." Samael blinked, looking back at Fabian. "Ahhбн now I understand. Fabian trusts him because he''s a spawn of evil."

    "We are friends," Abel intoned, raising his brows at Fabian, to which Fabian responded with a broader smile. "See?"

    Samael''s expression died, shaking his head sideways.

    "In any case, Maximus died and the maind still had no king and the Queen is unconscious. Great!" he pped, leaning over to pick up a piece of meat Fabian barbecued. "I guess I just have to find a great ce to migrate my family."

    "You can go to Haimirich. I will surely give you a good life," offered Abel, watching Samael pause just as thetter picked up his food. "What do you think?"

    "Wellбн" Samael shook his head, turning his head in his wife''s direction. When he saw Lilou smile and shrug, he shrugged as well. "I''ll think about it. Though it isn''t a terrible offer."

    "You are wee."

    "Before we think of that, we still have to clean up the mess in this ce," Lilou reminded them, standing beside her husband''s chair with the tray still in her embrace. "Do not forget that no matter where the Grimsbanne goes, people wouldn''t stop bothering them. Your existence alone is a threat. For as long as the Grimsbanne lives, they wouldn''t stop."

    There was a moment of silence right after Lilou''s remarks, for that was the painful truth.

    To be truthfully fair, the Grimsbanne could just live on their own in silence and in peace. They had been living just as quietly as a dead rat, not causing any trouble бк intentional or not. However, their peaceful lives were ruined overnight.

    And thus, here they were. Gathered in the backyard, having a barbecue party for the sole reason of keeping their inner peace by "rxing." Instead of letting their emotions take charge.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "You are wrong, dearest niece," Abel spoke after a moment, correcting her. "It''s not, "for as long as the Grimsbanne lives," but for as long as they live."

    "They wouldn''t stop until they are breathing." Samael rocked his head, obviously agreeing with his uncle. "It''s not us who started all of this, love. Remember that."

    "So, when are we attacking?" asked Conan, calming down after some time.

    "I suggest we do it as soon as possible," Fabian suggested, only to hear a young man''s voice from behind.

    "Is that after dinner?" when they turned their heads, all they saw was a young man approaching with a towering man walking behind him.

    "Are you two done sparring?" asked Lilou, darting her eyes between ude (her husband''s nephew) and Rufus (Fabian''s brother). "Come. Fabian grilled us something to enjoy."

    "Nice!" the young man named ude pped excitedly, but instead of joining everyone, he headed straight to the bonfire around the area. "Mister Fabian, these are goods, right?"

    "Yes, my lord."

    "Great!"

    Lilou shook her head mildly, setting her attention back on her husband and then to Abel. "For that, we need Tilly''s agreement. Although we lived on the maind, I do not mind leaving. However, Tilly lived in this ce for a long time."

    "Well, that''s right." Samael raised his brows, facing Tilly''s direction. "What do you think, Tilly?"

    "Lest you had nned on changing our minds, I would like to let you know Mathilda I can kill you." Abel bit his tongue when Lilou and Samael shot him a re, shrugging. "Intimidation always works. See? She''s already trembling in fear."

    "She''s as hard as a rock," Samael rebutted, ncing at his auntie. "Ignore your brother. He''s only good at giving advice about sex, but anything else бк don''t listen to him."

    "Ouch!" he winced when a pnded on his shoulder, and when he looked up, all he saw was his wife''s re. "Right, right. I''m sorry. I misspoke."

    "Tilly, don''t listen to these men." Lilou shook her head, shing Tilly a kind and understanding smile. "Listening to them will not be good for you. Just tell us if you are willing to leave this mansion and the maind. Whatever your decision is, we can alwayspromise."

    "No fucking hellбн" Abel and Samael mumbled quietly, only for thetter to press his lips when Lilou red daggers at him.

    "Mama~!"

    Just as they were waiting for Tilly''s decision while the rest enjoyed their barbecues, they heard Sunny''s sweet voice. All of them turned their heads in the voice''s direction, but their attention fell on the woman walking between them as she held the children''s hands.

    "Oh, she''sбн" Lilou trailed off, distracted as Abel suddenly sprung up from his seat and marched towards his wife. "... he had been refusing to leave that chair sincest night, but it seemed he was simply waiting for her to wake up."

    Everyone бк especially Abel''s family бк kept their eyes on his back, watching him approach his wife and witness the strange softness in his eyes. Quite a strange sight to behold, but not surprising.

 Chapter 794 Meeting The Grimsbanne

    When Aries asked Sunny where Abel was, Sunny and her brother, Law, took her to the backyard. It wasn''t like Aries was in a weakened state despite sleeping for a week. Aries needed rest, and they knew the reason for that.

    Holding the children''s hands, they led her to the mansion''s backyard. Aries hadn''t had the opportunity to explore the mansion. Although it looked exactly like the forbidden mansion in the Haimirich Empire, it was still a different ce.

    The second they stepped out to the backyard, Aries paused, causing Sunny and Law to stop as well. The two children looked up at Aries and then shifted their attention to the people in the backyard. One look and one wouldn''t even guess their family was in trouble as they have the time to rx like this.

    The children were used to this kind of response to particr situations, though. But this was new to Aries.

    "Mama~!" Sunny called after a minute and her mother didn''t notice her.

    Sunny''s call caught everyone''s attention, setting their eyes in the three''s direction. As soon as Abel turned his head and his eyes fell on Aries''s figure, he nted his hand on the armrest and sauntered to her.

    Seeing this, Law (Sunny''s big brother) nced at Aries. He carefully released Aries''s hand, causing thetter to nce at him.

    "I''ll join them," said the boy to Aries before casting his sister a look. "Sunny, let''s go. The food smells nice."

    "Yes~! Grandmama, I''ll show you to my mamater~" Sunny shed Aries a smile before she let go of Aries''s hand, skipping her steps to join everyone in the backyard while her brother walked away leisurely.

    "Sunny, careful," Law reminded herzily, ncing at Abel as he walked past him. Abel didn''t spare the children a look as his eyes were fixed on Aries, so Law didn''t dwell in him and just joined everyone in the backyard.

    Meanwhile, Aries stood in the same spot until Abel was at arm''s length. Her brows rose because Abel kept advancing in her direction. There was no sign that he would stop.

    "Abel бк" the rest of her sentence rolled back into her throat, watching him stretch his arms with his hand cupping her cheek. Without a moment''s notice, Abel tilted his head to the side, pressing his lips against hers.

    Her eyes dted as Aries froze on the spot, a bit surprised at his intimate greeting.

    "Hey!!!" Suddenly, Conan''s voice erupted from behind Abel. "How dare you do this right in front of my barbecue?!"

    "Bless this prince." Samael shook his head, clicking his tongue continuously, eyes on Conan. "Now that I think about it, have you had your first kiss, Prince? How can you not understand a man''s longing?"

    "What?" Conan gasped, looking back at Samael.

    "If that is Uncle Hell, he would''ve made out with my auntie right then and there." This time, ude answered in a knowing tone as he approached the table. "The Prince is a virgin for sure."

    "ude." Lilou cast ude a look. "Don''t tease His Highness that much."

    "Mama~!"

    Lilou shifted her attention to her bubbly daughter and smiled. "Sunny,e. I prepared some snacks. You too, Law." Her eyesnded on the boy walking behind Sunny.

    "Yey~!" Sunny cheered while Law inquired, "Mother, did His Grace return?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "No. Not yet. I heard he''s with the marquess in Leviticus''s residence."

    Their attention slowly drifted from Abel and Aries as their conversations hopped from one thing to another. Sunny was pampered by her mother while climbing on her father''sp; Law stood beside his cousin ude while they somehow stopped arguing to tease the sensitive Conan. Fabian diligently served them food and drinks. Rufus (Fabian''s brother) joined them, standing in between Samael and Tilly''s chairs, casually talking to the former.

    From another person''s perspective, the scene appeared as though it was a casual afternoon party as if they had no problems. They didn''t even talk about anything regarding the maind or the death of Maximus. Neither did anyone mention Marse or the missing weapon created by Maximus using Maleficent''s life and soul.

    Meanwhile, Aries blinked countless times as Abel drew his head back. Much to her surprise, the smile on his face was something she had never seen before. His lips curled up into a smile, but the luster in his eyes revealed unconceble happiness.

    Her lips opened and closed her mouth, but no words came out. There were many things she wanted to tell him and questions she wanted to get answered, but looking at his peaceful and fresh countenance, none of her questions left her mouth.

    "Took you a while to wake up," he said, still cupping her face with both his hands. "You got me worried for a second."

    Her eyes softened as her heart warmed up, smiling subtly. "I had to bid thedies farewell," she whispered, holding the hand that was cupping her face.

    "I didn''t think it will take that longбн" she continued softly. "I''m sorry."

    "At least, they won''t bother you anymore." Abel shook his head mildly. "And I''m d you''re here now."

    "Me too, Abel." Her heart warmed up, even more, squeezing his hand mildly. "I''m d to be with you now."

    The two of them stared at each other lovingly, smiling. There were no words that needed to be said as their eyes spoke it all; their longing, their relief, happiness, love, and many more.

    "Let''s go inside?" Abel inquired after a full minute of silence, making her brows elevate.

    "Pardon?"

    His brows rose, jerking his chin at the mansion behind her. "Inside."

    "..."

    Aries pursed her lips, knowing what he was suggesting. Not that she didn''t expect that from him, but stillбн her eyes moved to the side, catching the people several meters behind Abel.

    "Ah, right. How rude of me." Seeing where her eyes shifted, Abel rocked his head and look back. "I almost forgot about them."

    "How can you forget about your family?"

    "They''re not that important... sort of." Abel shrugged, caressing her arms down to her hand. "Shall I introduce them to you?"

    He tilted his head with a grin, squeezing her hand mildly. Aries could only stare at him for a second before she nodded, following Abel as thetter held her hand and guided her to where his family was at.

 Chapter 795 Meeting The Grimsbanne II

    "Darling, meet my family," Abel remarked, standing near the garden table with Aries on his side. "This is Mathilda. The one I had been talking about."

    Abel motioned his hand in his sister''s direction before moving it to the other seat next to Tilly.

    "That is Samael, Ameria''s son. And that''s his wife, Lilou. You might''ve heard about the Bloodfang n over the past two years. She''s thest one of them." He leaned to Aries''s side upon adding thest two sentences, making Aries nce at him.

    "Obviously, these two were Sonny''s parents. That boy is Sonny''s brother and the one next to him is Ameria''s grandchild." Abel pointed at the young man standing next to Law. "ude''s parents were Ameria''s son and daughter."

    "Oh..." Aries rocked her head, cautiously peeking at ude to see if the young man was irked since that sounded like a sensitive topic. Much to her surprise, ude simply waved and grinned from ear to ear.

    "And then..." Abel trailed off as he looked around, catching Rufus. "And that is Samael''s son."

    "Pardon?"

    "Adoptive," Rufus corrected sternly, making Lilou chuckle. "It was a long story, Your Majesty."

    "Ah..."

    "And also, he is Fabian''s brother," added Abel, making Aries look back at him with furrowed brows.

    "What?" she asked.

    "Mydy, don''t be surprised." Fabian kept his ear-to-ear smile that reached his squinting eyes. "You might hurt my brother''s feelings."

    "Don''t worry. I was just as surprised as you, Aries," Lilou chimed in, offering Aries a warm smile. "I''m d that you regained consciousness."

    Aries just smiled at Lilou while scanning the faces around the backyard. All of them felt weing, but at the same time, emanated a natural intimidating aura they couldn''t contain in their bodies. Standing before them, Aries felt like shrinking.

    All of them... even Sunny... was intimidating. Aries never felt this before toward Sunny or even toward Conan, but now, she could feel this air breathing down her neck, telling her to stay on her toes. But the most dangerous of all was...

    Aries nced in Samael''s direction and then at Fabian before moving her eyes at Rufus, and then her eyesnded on the man standing beside her.

    Abel.

    She had known all along that Abel was a dangerous man. But now, just looking at him was enough to make her heart thud nervously. Not just that, but this sense of subservience consistently grew stronger.

    "Everyone. I know you heard about my wife, but I''d still introduce her to you. Her name is Aries, my wife," Abel spoke, snapping Aries from her momentary trance. "Be kind to her."

    Aries forced a smile on her face under Abel''s gaze and then faced everyone.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I didn''t know what to say, but I hope we get along," said Aries awkwardly, making themugh mildly.

    "Lady Aries, why are you so awkward?" Conan inquired, cocking his head to the side. "As far as I know, you''re not so modest."

    "She''s meeting her inws," ude chimed in, grinning. "So, of course, she''ll want to leave a proper impression. Your Highness, you''re the only one who doesn''t seem to care about first impressions."

    "Scram!" Conan growled, but the young man just chuckled mischievously.

    "Don''t worry." Lilou ignored their banters, eyes fixed on Aries. "Just feelfortable with us since it seemed we''d be together for quite some time."

    "That''s right! Grandmama, don''t be shy! You are grandpa''s wife and also one of us!" Sunny jumped in, giggling before munching her food while still sitting on her father''sp.

    "I don''t have much of anything to say." Samael shrugged. "Just don''t mind us. Instead of focusing on us, focus on the new blood in your veins. The only subservience I want is my wife."

    His expression stiffened upon feeling his wife''s gaze, turning his head only to see Lilou smiling warmly at him. Despite her soft expression, Samael still gulped. He cleared his throat, looking away from Lilou.

    "Why are you always doing this to yourself?" Law mumbled to himself, shaking his head, knowing his father would be in trouble once no one was looking.

    Aries observed them in silence until her shoulders rxed. Although she still felt a little threatened by just their presence alone, her gut feeling told her they wouldn''t harm her. Aries had thought of many scenarios and what sort of people Abel''s family was.

    However, after meeting Marse and then another person from Abel''s past, Maximus, Aries, didn''t have high hopes. Considering Abel hadn''t been on the maind for a long time and only met his nephews and grandchildren, Aries expected the worst. In that case, she wouldn''t get disappointed by her expectations.

    ''They seemed to be a bunch of good people,'' she thought to herself, convinced of this matter. ''Still, I sort of understand why many people were after them. They might not mean harm now, but just the thought that if they meant harm, no one could ever stop them.''

    Aries didn''t know whether to sigh in relief or gulp nervously. Either way, she could only ept the situation and hope they wouldn''t change for the worse.

    "I''ll keep that in mind, Samael," she spoke, but this time, her tone bore a tinge of confidence. "I hope we all get along well. There were probably many things that needed to be discussed after the death of Maximus, but I''m d that you all arrived on the maind safe and sound."

    Her change of attitude brought a smile to their faces. Aries faced Abel, only to catch the proudness swirling in his eyes.

    "Thank you for waiting for me, darling," she expressed, suppressing the fear crawling up her spine just by standing under his gaze.

    "I''d appreciate it if you don''t sleep that long next time." Abel winked meaningfully, making her chuckle.

    "Since we''re all here, why don''t you join us?" Lilou suggested, watching Abel and Aries look back at her. "It hasn''t been long since we arrive, after all. It''s best if we all catch up over a good meal and wine."

    Aries''s lips stretched broader, staring at the stunning woman with hazel locks. "Sure."

 Chapter 796 Changes

    Since all the seats were upied, Abel kicked Conan out of his chair to offer it to his wife. Conan naturally harrumphed, rambling on and on about how easy it was to ask nicely. While Conan went to a full concert, Fabian and ude returned with chairs so everyone who wanted to sit could sit down.

    In the end, Conan huffed angrily and plopped his butt down. Not everyone sat down, though. Around the table were just Samael, Tilly, Abel, Aries, Conan, and ude. The rest were helping Fabian prepare the food, and as they waited, Abel and Samael casually chatted and drag Aries into their conversation from time to time. They would also talk to Tilly, but thetter seemed she wasn''t hearing them.

    "Here." After some time, Aries gazed up when a tended in front of her, only to see the stunning Lilou smiling at her. "Fabian and I prepared it for you. I hope you like it."

    "Thank you." Aries''s voice sounded slightly awkward, feeling a bit embarrassed about Sunny''s mother.

    "You''re wee." Lilou''s smile brightened up, raising her palm as a gesture for Aries to try it.

    "Ohбн" Aries rocked her head, picking up the cutlery to eat the piece of meat Lilou was already sliced before serving. But just as she held the cutlery, Aries paused and gazed up. Her brows rose, seeing that every single one of them was looking at her with anticipation.

    ''Uhmбн'' Aries instinctively cast Abel, who was just right beside her, a look.

    Abel smiled, nodding reassuringly. "They want to know your taste buds because I told them mine."

    "Pardon?" Deep lines appeared between her brows, confused. But Abel seems he didn''t want to reveal more details.

    Aries gazed down at the te once again, gulping nervously for a reason she couldn''t understand. The cutlery in her grasp shook slightly, forking out a piece of meat and guiding it to her lips. As she did so, she could feel their gazes intensify, making her shrink.

    Why were they watching her so intensely? Aries wept internally. Even before she could put the meat inside her mouth, she felt like having indigestion already.

    Aries''s confusion didn''tst long when she shoved the meat inside her mouth, only to spit it out.

    "Pfftбк" ude and Sunny covered their mouths to suppress theirughter while Lilou cast them a warning look.

    "Haha!" Meanwhile, Abel let out a shortugh, eyes on Aries. "How cute."

    Aries looked back at him in embarrassment before shifting her attention to Lilou, as if thetter had wronged her. But before Aries could ask why Lilou would pull a prank on her, Abel spoke.

    "Don''t misunderstand, darling," said Abel, watching Aries look back at him. "Lilou didn''t pull a prank on you. In fact, she had given you the best meat we have tonight."

    "What?"

    His lips were curled up into a warm smile. "It''s just your taste buds are different. They''re like mine now."

    Confusion reced Aries''s frown, assessing Abel''s countenance. Although what he said was clear, she seemed to not understand it clearly.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "It''smon for vampires, you know?" Samael casually jumped in, snatching Aries''s attention as he had assumed Abel wouldn''t exin it properly. "When you turned from humans to vampires, your taste buds will change since your body will crave blood instead of food when you were human. Vampires had different taste buds бк if you hadn''t noticed, it was the reason vampires prefer to live in nobility since we have sensitive taste buds."

    "Although being born as a vampire and getting used to it is a different case from a human turning into a vampire," he added, keeping it short and simple for her to understand it quickly. "My wife experienced the same, although it wasn''t a big deal to her since she would eat anything."

    "I was a peasant." Lilou shrugged, leaning against her husband''s chair. "So even if it doesn''t taste good, I will gobble it up to survive."

    Aries darted her eyes between Samael and Lilou and then gazed at the rest around the table. They were all smiling at Aries. Some of them, like ude and Sunny, were enjoying their food.

    "You''ve been eatingбн" Aries trailed off, setting her eyes back on Abel. "... with this taste bud?"

    Abel nodded without a second hesitation. "You''ll get used to it, darling. It''s not that bad; it''s just that it''s your first meal. Soon, you''ll enjoy the exquisite foods."

    Her lips parted, but her voice didn''te out. All she could do for a moment was stare at Abel, discovering another part of him that she didn''t know. The things that she didn''t know about him just seemed to be countless; things that she didn''t know were important or something so simple.

    No wonder Abel only ate the most exquisite wines and dishes. It wasn''t because he had too much money бк well, Abel was probably the wealthiest emperor she knew, but that wasn''t the point. His meticulousness in foods was because he had a cursed tastebud.

    The meat she just ate tasted like a lump of rotten raw meat and its texture in her mouth felt incredibly unbearable. To think Abel could eat something likeбн Aries felt sorry for him. Even if he said this was because it was her first time, the experience was enough to traumatize her. It was way worsepared to the pigs'' food when she was a captive in the Maganti Empire.

    "You should try more, Grandmama!" Sunny interrupted Aries''s thoughts, making thetter look in her direction. "It takes patience and practice to get used to it, but don''t worry! The reward is worth it!"

    Aries''s eyes softened as she smiled subtly, rocking her head.

    "I''ll try my best." She turned her head in Abel''s direction. "Do you enjoy it now?"

    "Yes." Abel nced at Lilou and then at Fabian. "I never had such a good meal in a long time. It was nice."

    Warmth swelled in Aries''s chest, sensing how warm the atmosphere around these people was. She forked out another piece of meat, lips quivering as she anticipated a rotten taste that would explode in her mouth. Much to her surprise, the meat didn''t taste as terrible as the first one, gazing up to see them smiling at her proudly.

    ''Ahhбн'' she thought, setting her eyes back to Abel. ''... it''s not that you''ll get used to it, huh? It''s just more bearable to eat with the people you like.''

    Her eyesnded on the food, smiling gently. ''No wonder he used to drag me around and dine with me back in the empire. The food just tastes better with thepany.''

    Again, Aries discovered something about Abel. However, this time, she didn''t feel like shecked. Rather, she felt excited about what to discover about him next.

 Chapter 797 See?!

    "Thank you."

    Aries''s brows rose, turning her head to Lilou, who sat down beside her. After they ate, everyone just enjoyed the food and drinks, and the men were now having a friendly spar near the bonfire. Aries ate, but not too much since she couldn''t force herself. Though the food tastes better.

    "Thank you for?" Aries narrowed her eyes, confused.

    "For taking care of my daughter," Lilou rified, leaning back with a smile. "Sunny told me many things about you and Abel on our way to the maind. I was nervous about her and had been scared, but I''m d she met you and Abel."

    Lilou''s smile stretched wider while her eyes shone beautifully. "Thank you for taking care of her and prioritizing her safety. I am forever indebted."

    "It''s nothing." Aries shook her head mildly. "Sunny is family. Looking after her while her parents were away is something a family would naturally do."

    "Not all families are like that, though." Lilou smacked her lips, peeling her eyes from Aries to the men having a brawl. "Sometimes, the people we call family whom we expect to protect us will be the first people to harm us."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, gazing at where Lilou was staring at. "But not our familyбн right?"

    ? "Mhm." Lilou rocked her head. "Not the Grimsbanne. People deemed them as vicious devils whose existence isn''t wee in this world. However, Samбн Tilly, my childrenбн weren''t perfect, but they were good people. They don''t harm others unless they crossed the line. As much as possible, they didn''t want violence бк they never attacked first."

    "I''ve been married to my husband for over a decade and never once did I see him attack first," she continued. "I''m pretty sure Abel is also the same type."

    Aries went silent for a moment, reviewing everything from the beginning. It never crossed her before, but now that Lilou mentioned it, Abel always had a reason to hurt someone. No matter how big or small it was, Abel always had a reason.

    "How dare they?" whispered Aries, making Lilou''s brow arch.

    "Bully our men?" Lilou continued in a questioning tone.

    "Bu бк bully????" Conan, who was just about to join them to sit down and rest, gasped in disbelief.

    Both Lilou and Aries nced at him. They tilted their heads to the side, staring at Conan with genuine wonder in their eyes.

    "You twoбн" Conan carefully sat down across from them and just right beside Tilly. "... don''t you get goosebumps on what you are saying? Why are you looking at me as if I said something extremely stupid?!"

    "Because you are." Aries clicked her tongue, casting Lilou a meaningful look. "This man just doesn''t understand, you see."

    Lilou''s lips stretched as confidence washed over her countenance. "He will."

    Aries''s brows rose, watching Lilou face Conan with a smile.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Your Highness, aren''t you having goosebumps saying that?" asked Lilou.

    "Hah! Why would I?" Conan snorted. "The word bully isn''t something you just threw around as a joke! If there''s anyone who is getting bullied, that was me! Those guys бк Samael and Abel will never get bullied!"

    Conan harrumphed as if he had deep grudges against Abel and Samael. Aries could understand if this was Abel, but Samael? It was only been over a week since Conan met these people. How could he ''detest'' Samael so easily?

    "How can you be so shallow?" murmured Aries, gazing at Conan in dismay.

    "It is true that considering my husband and Abel''s strong personality, they wouldn''t get bullied. However, it''s not like they were purposely picking on others." Lilou shrugged, maintaining her calm mien. "Still, since we are the wives, knowing others were picking on our husbands despite that they weren''t doing anything was hard to ignore."

    "That''s right. It''s not like it''s just a simple teasing," Aries backed up while Lilou nodded in agreement. "Those peopleбн some of them didn''t even interact with them even once. Even just for a brief moment. However, they had the audacity toe at our men and interrupt our lives like children just because they couldn''t talk."

    "That''s not the point!" argued Conan. "Even if the entire world goes against them, it''s not like they would fall easily. I won''t even pity them since I know if the world is evil, they were double бк hundred times evil."

    It wasn''t like Conan was lying. It was true that it was hard to pity the Grimsbanne men due to their strong personalities. If someone wronged them, that person would be dead. That also applied to many cases. If the world went against them directly, Conan was a hundred percent certain the Grimsbanne men would ruin this world with their bare hands.

    Deep down, Lilou and Aries couldn''t help but wonder just what sort of monster was their husbands in Conan''s eyes. For sure, Samael and Abel weren''t that terrible.

    "See!?" Conan pointed in the bonfire''s direction where the men were sparring.

    Lilou and Aries shifted their attention to where Conan was pointing, only to catch Abel and Samael standing around the bonfire while talking casually. ude and Rufus were still sparring, although it was mostly a yful exchange.

    "Are you alright?" asked Aries to Conan, scrunching her face in dismay. "My husband and Samael are literally just chatting."

    "They''re scheming! Can''t you see how evil they look right now?!" Conan looked back, only to gasp as he caught the glint in Abel and Samael''s eyes the moment their eyes met with Conan. "See?!"

    When Conan looked back, Lilou and Aries were frowning at him. The two fixed their eyes on him. Therefore, they didn''t see the death re Conan received.

    "My goodnessбн" Lilou sighed, waving dismissively. "... that''s not the point, Your Highness. It''s not that our husbands are the only people who were being picked on. It''s the entire Grimsbanne n. Are you saying Tilly also deserves to be treated this way?"

    "Of co бк" the rest of Conan''s words rolled back in his throat, mouth kept agape. His irises went wide, instinctively casting Tilly a look, only to realize she was looking back at her.

    Meanwhile, Aries''s face showed surprise before facing Lilou squarely. Thetter winked at her, making Aries chuckle quietly before they set their devious gaze on Conan.

 Chapter 798 Abel Is The Only Person Who Can Answer That

    Conan immediately apologized to Tilly, even though thetter didn''t seem to care or even listened to their conversation. He used his energy, running his mouth while sitting beside Tilly, leaving Aries and Lilou alone.

    Aries let out a weak chuckle, casting Lilou a look. "You''re good."

    "Living with people like him, I have to get creative in my arguments." Lilou shrugged, peeling her eyes away from Aries to Conan and Tilly. "His Highness isn''t a terrible one. Matter of fact, with his personality, he got along with the family so easily."

    "He might be shameless and speak so insensitively, but he''s a good person." Aries rocked her head, smiling subtly. "Was your trip in here alright?"

    "Wellбн thankfully, there was no major setback."

    There was a moment of silence between the two women, watching Conan act as a clown in front of Tilly. This time, Tilly was staring at Conan with a dead expression.

    "During my reignбн" Aries''s voice broke the prolonged silence between them, lowering her eyes. "... where have you gone?"

    She faced Lilou ever so slowly. "I asked Fabian to search for you, but you people disappeared as if you didn''t exist."

    Lilou pressed her lips into a thin line, drawing a deep breath.

    "We weren''t gone for two years." Lilou shrugged. "Just two days."

    "Two days?"

    "Mhm." Lilou lowered her eyes, clenching her jaw briefly. "We were in thend of Spade for two days straight, settling personal matters. Thend was covered by a powerful vampiric ability, so when the fight ended, it''s already been two years."

    Bitterness filled her eyes, looking back at Lilou. "You can imagine the dread I felt when I realized that the time inside that hell run differently outside. Because that meant my daughter, who was in anothernd, had been waiting for us for two years and not just two days."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, having a vague idea of this strange phenomenon. If she heard such a thing years ago, she wouldugh about it. But after staying with Abel and discovering the things she didn''t know truly existed, what Lilou imed was believable.

    "That is why Sam and I were grateful to you," Lilou continued as her eyes softened, offering Aries a warm smile. "Duke Isaiah already told us it was you who ordered him to protect Sunny. You and Abelбн we might be a family by blood, but we''re still strangers. Yet we''re grateful that you epted her and took great care of her."

    She paused as the affection in her shimmering olive eyes was slowly reced by solemness. Lilou reached for Aries''s hand, fluttering her eyshes ever so tenderly.

    "A word of thanks isn''t enough to express our gratitude. Therefore, whatever you and Abel n, do not forget that we are willing to assist you." Lilou squeezed Aries''s hand mildly. "It''s not just you anymore, Aries. We are Abel''s familyбн and yours. The blood that is running in my children was the same as the blood that is running in yours."

    Aries stared at the woman whose eyes mirrored Aries. As Aries smiled, deep lines suddenly appeared between her brows.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Huh?" Aries looked over her shoulder, and her irises dted in surprise. She didn''t notice it until now, but the strands of hair that were on her shoulder weren''t green anymore, but white.

    "Whatбн?" she grabbed a portion of her hair that was tied on her back, only to see that the hair under her grip shared the same color as those of Tilly, Samael, Law, and even Sunny''s!

    "My hairбн how?" she murmured, thinking of any memory only to realize her memories from the past week were nk.

    "Think of it as a part of your transition." Aries was brought back from her daze by Lilou''s voice, looking back at thetter. "There was a way to have that hair color for vampires. Pureblooded vampires'' hair turned white or silver if they reached the peak of the blood chain. Meanwhile, the Grimsbanne n were born with natural white hairs and pale skin. It''s their n''s signature characteristic."

    Aries furrowed her brows, confused. "But Abel hasбн" she trailed off, recalling a memory in the past.

    Back then, Abel told her that his dark hair wasn''t his original hair color. Now that she thought about it, the roots of Marse''s hair were also lighter than her tinum locks.

    "Sunny is a rare case, but that doesn''t make her less of a Grimsbanne," Lilou added with a smile since Sunny had a hazel streak that suit her so well. "I think it was quite stylish."

    "Does hair color have anything to do with anything?" Aries blurted out, making Lilou raise her brows. "I mean, you mentioned pureblooded vampires will have a lighter hair color once they reached this peak. I am not a pureblooded vampire, Lilou. Is this normal for a turned vampire as well?"

    Lilou''s lips parted but then pressed them on a thin line again. She stared at Aries in silence, letting out a shallow breath, and smiled subtly.

    "No, it is not." She shook her head. "However, I am not in the position to exin the reason. But if you''re going to listen to my lie, then I''d say it is because a Grimsbanne turned you into a vampire."

    A lieбн

    Aries assessed Lilou''s soft countenance and knew that thetter was lying. Even if Lilou didn''t verbalize it, she knew she was lying.

    "Sometimes, it''s better to believe a lie even if you know it is a lie." Lilou peeled her eyes away from her, setting them on the men near the bonfire. "Especially with our current disposition. We might be rxing right now, but I''m certain we are far from being safe. Securing our sanity is a must, knowing losing it is a guaranteed loss."

    Aries kept her attention on Lilou''s side profile before shifting her eyes to where thetter was staring. The second she did, Abel and Samael were walking in their direction while casually chatting.

    "Will it matter in the future?" asked Aries under her breath.

    "That answerбн" Lilou''s eyes softened, pushing herself up to wee her husband, who was carrying Sunny in his arms. "... Abel is the only person who can answer that."

 Chapter 799 Always Beautiful In His Eyes

    "That answerбн Abel is the only person who can answer that."

    Aries''s eyes watched Lilou rise from her seat, seeing thetter sh her a short smile before meeting her husband halfway.

    "Mama~!" Sunny cheered happily as soon as Lilou approached, making thetter chuckle at her daughter''s cuteness.

    "Sunny, why are you eating again? Aren''t you on a diet?" Lilou poked her daughter''s nose yfully.

    "Papa said I can eat just for today because I''ll be stressedter." Sunny pouted before casting her handsome father a pitiful look. "Right? Papa?"

    Samael, a man whose face screamed mischief and evilness, gasped in awe. "Yes!" as if spellbound by his daughter''s charm, he nodded without a second hesitation.

    "Really? Sam?" Lilou''s cold voice, however, brought him back from his daze. A deep exhale slipped past her lips, shaking her head. "Just for tonight, alright?"

    "Love,e on. We haven''t held our daughter for two years. Even if it''s just two nights for us, it''s two years for her. We must spoil her rotten or she might just want to get adopted by that guy." Samael cast Abel a re while thetter grinned from ear to ear. "See how pretentious his smile is? So scary."

    Lilou''s expression died, watching her husband find someone to push the me on. Back then, her husband often used Fabian as a scapegoat to get out of trouble, but now he had another one. Did he think that since he had been using Fabian, he should abuse Abel''s existence?

    "We''ll talk once the children are asleep," said Lilou, and Samael instantly froze, followed by Abel''s wickedughter.

    "Good luck, dearest nephew. I told you, a happy wife is a happy life." Abel''s smile stretched broader until his eyes were squinting, turning on his heel in his wife''s direction. "Don''t bother me tonight. We''ll give you a cousin."

    Aries frowned, watching Abel advance in her direction.

    "Hello, my love." Abel bent over, nting a soft kiss on her cheek before dragging a chair beside her. He sat down, facing her squarely. "Are you tired?"

    "Not really." Aries shook her head, ncing in Lilou and Samael''s direction, only to see thetter shing his wife a puppy look as if he was asking his wife for forgivenessбн or maybe something else.

    "Darling." Abel snapped a finger to get her attention, tilting his head to block her view. "Are you alright?"

    "Mhm." She nodded, sporting a smile. "Did you enjoy hanging out with them?"

    "Well, Samael is such a chatterbox. He needed some advice about his marriage, so I gave him a ton. In exchange, he will make a portrait of us."

    "A portrait?"

    "He''s a painter, remember?"

    "Ohбн rightбн" Aries rocked her head, remembering the books she read during the two-year separation. Samael''s works on the maind were famous and thus, Aries knew a thing or two about him. She had also seen a work of him since Samael was the person who painted the previous king''s portrait.

    "That''sбн amazing," she whispered, lifting her eyes at Abel with a smile. "The portrait of the previous king was perfect."

    "He might be a crybaby, but he got some serious talent."

    "I don''t think he is."

    "Come on. He is like another version of Conan."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Or another version of yourself," she humored, chuckling. "They said if you meet another version of yourself, you''d realize how annoying you are."

    "I am not annoyingбн" he trailed off, raising his brows briefly. "... well, maybe a bit."

    Aries chuckled at his admittance, covering her lips with the back of her fist. Meanwhile, Abel couldn''t help but let out a sigh and smile subtly. He raised a hand, brushing her jaw with his knuckles. His action stopped herughter, causing her brows to elevate as she lifted her eyes back to him.

    "Abel?" she called upon seeing his soft countenance.

    "I''m really d to hear youugh again, darling," came out a gentle and sincere confession, instantly warming up her heart. "That restбн let it be thest that I won''t hear from you again."

    Her eyes softened, nodding. "Mhm." Aries held his hand, keeping her eyes on him.

    "Did I make you wait so long?" she asked in a quiet voice.

    "I hate waiting."

    That was true, she thought. Abel was the most impatient person she had met in her life. Make him wait for a minute and that would be guaranteed mayhem. The reason it was almost impossible to think that Abel survived waiting in the spirit world for two years, only to wait for another few days to meet her, and another several days.

    Yet, he waited patiently.

    "Thankбн" Aries trailed off, watching his brows rise. She pressed her lips into a thin line, smiling. Instead of thanking him for waiting for her or foring to her, she realized that wasn''t what mattered to him. Abel had done everything for her, not because he wanted her to thank him.

    "I missed you," she expressed, making him smile in satisfaction.

    "That''s what I''ve been wanting to hear," he whispered, brushing her cheek with his thumb gently. "Did you mean it?"

    "Mhm." Aries nodded, bending over until she could see his face up close. "Abel, did you age? You look like a true uncle now."

    Abel cocked his head to the side. "Your hair is white, darling."

    Aries cupped her face to check if there were wrinkles. She hadn''t seen herself in the mirror as she went straight to the backyard with Sunny and Law after she woke up. Perhaps she aged since her hair had turned white. The possibilities were countless, after all.

    "Darling." Abel chuckled, nting his hands on top of her hand that was cupping her cheeks. He lowered his eyes, searching for her eyes before he uttered, "you are beautiful."

    "Huh?"

    "Always," he added with a gentle certainty in his voice.

    Aries held his gaze before the side of her lips hooked up into a subtle smile. In his eyes and under his gaze, there was never a moment she felt ugly. Aries always felt like the most beautiful woman whenever he looked at her, and it used to be ttering. But now, it was heartwarming.

    "So, don''t worry about бк" the rest of Abel''s words were shoved back in his throat as Aries moved forward, iming his lips without a moment''s notice.

    His brows rose and his eyes dted in surprise before his surprised countenance softened. His eyes slid to the corner to look at her, only to see her shut eyes. Abel smiled against her lips before he shut his eyes ever so slowly, savoring the softness of her lips which he had been craving.

 Chapter 800 Hate Or Worship Him, You Cant Change Him

    [ WARNING: THE CHAPTER HAS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION. ]

    Aries took a deep breath, inhaling Abel''s hot breath as her lips parted from his. Her back thudded against the door, but she didn''t even wince like usual, lifting her legs around his hips. She stretched her neck to grant him easy ess, allowing him to alternately kiss and bite her neck.

    "Ahhбн" a moan slipped past her parted lips as his hand felt her body.

    Abel felt the materials of her dress, hastily pulling the drawstring of her corset. His action made her body rxed, yet shivering at the touch of his lips on her skin. Her clutch on his shoulder and how she unconsciously dig her nails into his clothes revealed her desire for more.

    Her enthusiasm was very much wee.

    Grabbing the deep neckline of the back of her dress, Abel ripped it open, as he didn''t have much patience. He had been waiting and waiting, and he had already used up all the patience he could muster in all his millennia of life.

    Aries''s dress immediately fell off her shoulder,nding on the fold of her arms. Her legs around his hip tightened securely while he watched her weight, drawing his upper body away from hers. His eyesnded on her bare upper chest; the ripped dress barely covered her nipples.

    His eyes glinted with deep desire, gazing up at her flustered face. His fangs peeked out from his parted lips, licking them.

    "Can I?" he asked under his breath, searching for her eyes until she was able to hold his gaze.

    Aries stared at him, assessing the little fangs peeking out of his parted lips. She gulped, hearing it echo in her ears. Everything felt heightened; the beat of her heart was racing, almost breaking through her ribcage, making her chest move up and down heavily. Her breathing was jagged and she could feel this itch she couldn''t simply satisfy with a simple scratch.

    She was burning, and this heat wouldn''t be distinguished so easily.

    "Yes," she whispered, clutching his shoulder. "I want them."

    Her lips quivered with equal nervousness and excitement. "I want you."

    The moment thest syble of her words rolled out of her tongue, Aries held her breath as she felt on the soft mattress on her back. Her body bounced slightly, surprised at how quick the turn of events was.

    "Say it again," he demanded airily, pinning her wrist over her head with suppressed strength and excitement.

    Aries kept her eyes on his glinting eyes until they mirrored her clearly. This was the first time she had seen her face. She looked different. Perhaps it was because of her silver hair color or the crimson eyes she never thought she would have.

    For some reason, she felt like she looked like him. Almost. They sort of resembled each other; sharp eyes bearing deep desire for pain and pleasure, and fangs peeking out of their mouths that were itching to sink into each other''s skin.

    "I want you." Her voice, although quiet, sounded firmer. "All of you, Abel."

    His eyes lit up as his strength on her wrist felt heavy, hissing. Abel pressed his body on her, tilting his head to the side. He caressed her neck with the tip of his nose and then licked it gently. Just a simple caress of his tongue on her skin made her shiver under his weight.

    Aries''s chest moved up and down even more heavily and deeply while her growing excitement each time his fangs graze her skin intensified. She arched her back slightly and in a heartbeat; she felt him sinking deep into her skin and then into her veins.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Ahhбн" her lips parted, moaning.

    It was as simple as him sucking her blood, but the pleasure of having her blood run in his veins brought this inexplicable pleasure. Every gulp that would resonate in her ear was akin to a piece of soothing masterpieceposed by the greatest maestro. Strangely enough, there was this sense of pride and honor swelling in her heart.

    She felt honoredбн a feeling she never felt before whenever she would offer her blood to him. Aries couldn''t understand it herself, but knowing Abel''s fangs were sunk deep into her veins made her proudбн and very turned on.

    Perhaps because she was a vampire? Was what crossed her mind at the thought.

    Aries was brought back from her catharsis when Abel pulled his head back. There was an instant dissatisfaction with the abrupt stop, setting her eyes on him only to see him licking the corner of his lips.

    "You like it?" he asked with a yful smile, seeing the obvious dissatisfaction in her eyes.

    "Why did you stop?"

    "Why?" he repeated, bending over to nt a kiss on the healing holes on the side of her neck. "Because I want you tost long?"

    Aries turned her head to him when he drew his head back again.

    "You just woke up, darling. Let''s not overdo it." He brushed her lips with his thumb, enjoying the sight of her. "Don''t give me that look. I''m weak."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. What she felt was something frustrating, as if almost reaching orgasm, only to get interrupted. However, she understood that this was something different.

    Her expression rxed, clipping thepel of his linen blouse in between her thumb and index.

    "Can I?" she asked with a tinge of hesitation in her voice, causing his brows to raise. "Can I drink your blood?"

    Abel blinked, watching her suppress the embarrassment resurfacing in her lustful eyes.

    ''What a sight to behold,'' he thought, thinking that this never happened before. Aries was always proud of herself and confident during their quality time. But now, she seemed to be shyбн and he couldn''t even wonder why, because he already knew the reason.

    Her instinct бк vampiric instinct бк recognized Abel''s blood as something precious. The blood that was superior among purebloods, and having a drop of it, was considered an honor for their kind.

    One could hate or worship Abel, but there was one thing anyone couldn''t deny, and that was the purity of his blood. No matter how a person loathed him, if a chance rose where they could drink even a tiny bit of Abel''s blood, they wouldn''t be able to refuse it.

    That was how precious his blood wasбн and now she understood that.

 Chapter 801 The Horror

    [ WARNING: THE CHAPTER HAS MATURE CONTENT. PROCEED WITH CAUTION. ]

    Abel pushed himself away from her, standing on his knees. Aries clutched her hand closer to her chest, watching him take off his top, revealing his sculptured chest and toned stomach.

    "Come." Abel offered his hand to her, witnessing her brows raise. "It''s better this way."

    ''Better in what way...?'' she wondered, but her thoughts halted upon catching the pulsating vein on the side of his neck. ''I see...''

    Aries didn''t think much about it anymore, reaching her hand out to him. When his fingers wrapped around her hand, he pulled her up until she was sitting up. His arm wrapped around her waist, stilling her in one ce whilst sitting down.

    "Better, right?" Abel cocked his head to the side, disying his neck for her to lust for. "Haha. How silly."

    "Don''t tease me." She frowned slightly, gulping, barely able to take off her eyes from his neck to his eyes. "Is it fine like this?"

    His lips stretched even broader until they reached his eyes.

    "Of course," he said. "It''s ttering how you now understand the value of blood."

    Abel pricked his thumb using the tip of his finger. The delectable scent of his blood instantly wafted her nostrils, making her mouth and throat dry up.

    "Abel." Aries panicked at the urge that was pushing her to bite him, tugging his shoulders mildly. "What are you doing?"

    "Teasing you?" he humored, pressing his bleeding thumb on the corner of her lips. "I''ve always wondered when would this daye when you realize how lovely it is to drink each other''s blood."

    Aries held her breath as the pleasant scent of his blood was closer, licking the blood on her lips whilst keeping her gaze on him.

    "It was indeed... beautiful," she whispered, enthralled at his beauty. Aries slowly raised her hands and cupped his cheek, staring at him with overflowing affection and appreciation. "I''m lucky."

    "Indeed you are," he humored again, lips parting as he watched her move her face forward. Unlike his expectation for a straight bite, Aries showered him with short and soft pecks until he was chuckling.

    "What are you doing?" he asked in between his chuckle, holding her wrist as he gaze up.

    "Having my... Uhm... appetizer?" she ran her tongue across her inner cheek. "Before the big meal?"

    Another wave ofughter erupted from him, gazing at her in amusement.

    "Darling, I am torn whether to feel amused or threatened." He grinned, pulling her body closer. "But I am ready to be... tucked away."

    Abel wiggled his brows yfully while Aries bit her inner bottom lip to suppress her giggle. She then spread her fingers on his shoulders, her fingertips touching his neck. Aries moved up a bit, tilting her head to the side, smiling yfully at him.

    Seeing the mischief in her eyes, Abel rolled his eyes. She pressed her chest against him, blowing seductively at his ear before biting his earlobe.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Abel breathed out carefully, tracing her spine from her bottom up to her nape. A hiss slipped past his lips when she nted a sensual peck on his neck, feeling her lips curled up against his skin upon noticing his impatience.

    "Darling..." he called under his breath, sping a portion of her hair from the hairline on her nape. "... I used up all the patience I could in this lifetime. Stop teasing..."

    Abel trailed off weakly, feeling her tongue run on his neck near his jaw, before feeling her teeth on his skin. Aries simply bit him yfully without sinking her growing fangs.

    "Shhh." Aries hushed, nting another soft peck on him. She then moved closer until she was sitting on hisp with her knees on either side of his bent knees. She nudged her nose against his neck, inhaling the scent of his skin.

    Even with all the kisses and licks, his natural odor was something Aries couldn''t put into words. But it was surely pleasant... appetizing. Aries licked her lips in excitement before her lips parted, revealing two short yet sharp fangs.

    In a heartbeat, she shut her mouth closed. The way her teeth sank into his skin and her fangs deeper were smooth, followed by the sudden explosion of taste in her mouth. A muffled moan slipped past her lips, clutching his back and digging her nails into his skin.

    His arm wrapped around her body whilst keeping his hand sping a portion of her hair, pushing her head down on his shoulder. His countenance slowly turned red, panting through his mouth. The sound of her gulps echoed in his ears, urging him not to hold back.

    Aries was no longer human and thus, she could take more of him.

    Just the thought of it made his blood boil with excitement. His grip on her hair tighten, pressing her head so her fangs sink deeper until he could feel her even teeth on his skin.

    "Aries," he hissed after some time, pulling her hair back until they were face to face. Blood trickled down the side of her lips, looking at him with those bright crimson eyes.

    "Hah..." he huffed quietly, leaning his face forward while tilting his head to the side. Abel licked the blood trickling down from the side of her lips before iming those lips. As soon as his lips smashed against hers, Aries unintentionally grazed his lips with her fangs.

    Another moan escaped her mouth as he pricked her lips to share their blood through their kiss, which was growing more and more intense with every passing second.

    *****

    Meanwhile, in the backyard of the Grimsbanne''s mansion, everyone sat in their seat with nk and horrified expressions stered on their faces. When Lilou snapped out of her trance, she covered Sunny''s ear.

    Sunny, who was sitting on her mother''sp, looked back at Lilou. "Mama, it''s not that I can hear them."

    "God damn it!" Conan harrumphed when he couldn''t take it anymore, mming his hands against the table as he threw a huge fit. He red daggers at the mansion before he shouted,

    "We can smell your bloody war! Have some shame!"

    Conan''s shouts echoed until his voice drifted into nothingness. Nothing happened. The scent of Abel and Aries''s blood were dominating their nostrils, giving them an idea of what was currently happening inside the mansion.

    "I am envious," murmured Samael, casting Lilou a look only to meet Sunny''s re. "Sunny, sleep early."

 Chapter 802 Breakfast As A Grimsbanne

    The next morningбн

    Aries sat down around the dining table while Abel dragged the chair for her. Her eyes glossed over the faces sitting around the long dining area, furrowing her brows at the grim expression stered on their faces. She cast Abel a curious look, but thetter shrugged indifferently.

    "Did something happenst night?" she asked as soon as she sat down, realizing she wouldn''t get some answers unless she ask. "You don''t look too well."

    "It was nothing, Aries." Lilou was the only person around who didn''t share the same grim expression. There was Fabian too, but he rarely take off that irritating smile on his face. "Don''t mind them too much."

    "Shameless." Conan snorted to himself, darting his eyes from Lilou and Aries before setting his eyes on Abel. "Pwe!"

    Abel raised his brows, blinking. "What did I do now, dearest?"

    "Oh,e on. Don''t pretend you weren''t listening to him throw a huge fitst night." This time, Samael rolled his eyes. "If I know, you were purposely doing whatever sinful acts you were doing just so you can annoy every single one of us."

    "Don''t count me in, uncle. I don''t mind," ude chimed in, enjoying his morning tea. He then shifted his youthful eyes, which shimmered with vitality. "I hoped you two had a good timest night."

    "Pardon?" Aries furrowed her brows at ude''s remarks, but then she caught Abel''s figure from the corner of her eyes. When Aries turned her head in her husband''s direction, all she saw was the mischievous grin stered on Abel.

    The moment she caught that triumphant grin, her entire being froze. Her eyes went nk, realizing what ude meant by that. They heard themбн or probably got a whiff of their passionate and bloody lovemaking.

    Aries was new to this type of night passion, and if she was going to be honest, their sessionst night was phenomenal. It was different with all their emotions heightened, appreciating the beauty of pain and pleasure all at once. But now that she thought about it, vampires had a keen sense of scent, especially for blood.

    Just a drop of Abel''s blood was enough to fill the chambers more effectively than scented candles. How could she not realize that they were now living with people who were also vampires? And thus, they could smell not just Abel''s blood, but also hers.

    Strangely enough, knowing they had been sniffing her scentst night felt too intimate and daring. The slight embarrassment that was now crawling under her skin felt like she walked around nakedst night while intoxicated.

    Aries hung her head low as her face instantly turned red.

    "Haha! Don''t worry!" ude chuckled, seeing Aries shrink in her seat. "It''s not like we were that interested. Aside from His Highness, I''m already numb at this point."

    "Damn itбн" Samael frowned, leaning back against his chair. "... I''m starting to question whether or not my children even see me as their father. How can they just lock their mother in their room all night?"

    Lilou rolled her eyes while chuckling weakly, shaking her head. Her children weren''t present as they already had breakfast and were now ying with Rufus.

    "I already brought the young mistress her snacks while she watches her brother train with Sir Knight," Fabian reported quietly as he served Lilou her tea.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Thank you, Fabian." Lilou smiled in satisfaction, picking up her cup of tea while Fabian served the rest.

    "Darling, don''t be embarrassed. Conan is just envious that our marriage hopped to another level and his lonely soul couldn''t take it." Abel grinned from ear to ear, enjoying the deepening frown dominating Conan''s face. "Also, that is only normal between married couples. Am I right, Samael?"

    "Yes, yes, whatever." Samael waved dismissively, cocking his head to his wife sitting beside him. "My love, I wanted to show you the work I''ve been working on. Do you have a minute to see it?"

    Lilou cast him a side-eye for a moment. "After breakfast."

    "Great." He pped triumphantly, and his terrible mood instantly disappeared without a trace.

    "What a strange morningбн" Abel crooned from his seat, ignoring Fabian as thetter served him a bitter coffee riched with poison. His eyes scanned the dining table.

    The only people around were Samael on the left of the host seat where the quiet Mathilda was sitting. From Samael''s left was his wife, Lilou, and then ude, two vacant seats apart from her, then Conan. Across from them was Abel and then Aries. The rest like the children and Fabian''s brother, Rufus, were nowhere in sight.

    "Now that I think about it, didn''t my two brother-inw returnst night?" asked Abel, noticing that Dexter and Isaiah had been missing since yesterday morning. As far as he remembered, they went to the House Leviticus to visit London, Isaiah''s cousin and also the person Dexter was stuck with for the past two years because of Aries.

    Abel''s question forced Aries to raise her head, realizing she hadn''t seen Dexter since waking up. She didn''t think much about Isaiah, as she didn''t know he was also here. But did Abel just say two brothers-inw?

    "Mathilda, should I teach your husband a lesson once he returned? How can he go away and leave his wife all alone?" he continued, eyes falling on Tilly while Fabian was serving her food.

    Tilly slowly raised her eyes at her brother, blinking. Her lips parted, but she ended up shutting her lips into a thin line.

    "What do you mean, brother-inw?" Aries blurted out with deep lines in between her brows.

    Abel cocked his head to the side while his eyes returned to his wife. "Rightбн you haven''t heard yet."

    ? "Tilly got marriedбн somehow," exined Lilou, only to get interrupted by Conan''s action. Thetter mmed his fist against the table, making Aries flinch in surprise.

    "That damn Isaiahбн" grumbled Conan through his gritted teeth. "... I''ll kill him when I see him. How dare he get married before me?!"

    Aries''s head was filled with question marks before her eyes dted, looking back at Lilou. Thetter nodded in agreement.

    "Yes. Her husband is His Grace." Lilou shrugged, but instead of gossiping about how it got to that point, she changed the subject. "Before we all get side-tracked by your short attention span, why don''t we talk about our family''s dilemma?"

 Chapter 803 Quiet

    "Before we all get side-tracked by your short attention span, why don''t we talk about our family''s dilemma?"

    Silence followed Lilou''s remarks as she glossed her eyes over the people eating breakfast with her. Conan also huffed quietly, sitting back down in his chair.

    "You''re correct," Aries breathed out, nodding in agreement. "I''ve been unconscious for the past week. Therefore, I missed the Summit and many things. What happened?"

    Aries looked back at Lilou and then at Abel. Everyone''s expression turned solemn at Aries''s question.

    It was true that the night Maximus and Aries died was the first day of the world summit. Counting the days of how long she was unconscious, Aries was certain the world summit had ended. However, she needed to know what happened.

    The world project, led by London Leviticus, relied on the oue of the world summit. If it failed, this organization whose agenda was toe in between the matters of other creatures and races and impose violent-free resolutions would also fail. In other words, their hard work would go down the drain as well.

    Just the thought of it brought a frown to Aries''s face. The mission of this project was to protect small countries from oppression. Aries''s fuel for this project was her experience at Rikhill; thend of Rikhill wasn''t the only country that had fallen from the hands of a wicked and powerful country, but there were other countries out there being oppressed and exploited unjustly.

    One of the very good examples of that was the Chivisea Dynasty, where Veronika lived. Aside from the inner conflict, thatnd was oppressed by the Maganti Empire for many years. There were many more out there that were experiencing the same.

    "The world summit went smoothly despite the absence of the king and queen of the Maind," Abel exined, watching Aries raise her head to him. "Thanks to the night council, Gustav, and Suzanne, they were able to dy the protest of the nobles of the maind regarding what happened."

    "Is that so?" Aries heaved a sigh of relief, but her relief was short-lived when Samael spoke.

    "London Leviticus also yed a huge part in it. However, once thest monarch departs the maind, blood will surely spill," Samael added. This time, his tone was grim. "After all, the noble ns in the maind seek the Grimsbanne''s head to quench their anger for the death of their beloved king."

    "It wouldn''t be a problem if they wanted Abel''s head. We can just offer him to them and see if they can behead him. I wouldn''t mind attending his public execution," ude leaned forward, linking his hand before him. "But this was an opportunity they wanted to make use of its full potential."

    "Why do you look all so negative?" Abel tilted his head to the side, not taking ude''s remarks to the heart.

    If he could just surrender himself, Abel would''ve done it and let them kill him at least once. However, he knew it was a waste of time and life. The people in this ce would still go after his family.

    "If they were all joining hands, doesn''t that mean we''re just that powerful they had to work together to bring us all down?" continued Abel with a tinge of proudness in his voice. "It was ttering."

    "I agree that it was ttering, but the point here is, I actually nned to have a long honeymoon with my wife. We should''ve been doing much more productive, such as making our next child, but here we were, eating breakfast with you," Samael spat outzily, revealing his real dilemma in this situation. "I''m tired of all these schemes, to be frank. Can we just kill all of them?"

    "Sam." Lilou frowned, making her husband frown as well.

    "But my love, I am making a good point here," he argued indifferently. "All I wanted is a happily ever after, but here I am, getting dragged to another story. So, fuck you, Abel."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "What else can I say?" Abel fluttered his eyshes ever so tenderly, nting his palm across his chest. "I am just that special."

    "But he has a point." This time, Aries chimed in and backed up Samael. "I know you''ve been through a lot for the past two years. However, if you wanted to take a rest, I know a way to leave the maind without anyone noticing."

    Aries kept her determined eyes on Samael. "It might not be much, but thend of Rikhill, now a duchy and an official state of the Maganti empire, will wee you with open arms."

    "Aries," called Lilou, shing Aries a subtle smile. "I had said it before and I will say it again. After taking care of my daughter and keeping her safe, I don''t think I can ever face my children if I epted that offer."

    "Goodness graciousбн" Samael cupped his cheek, frowning deeply.

    "We are family. Even though we just met not so long ago, the blood running in your veins was the blood that is running in my children," Lilou continued, ignoring her husband. "Moreover, this home is rightfully Tilly''s. She had lived in thisnd longer than anyone, and all those years, she never caused trouble. I cannot just flee, knowing people were out there bullying Tilly and wanting my children''s heads."

    "It is tiring, isn''t it, Abel?" Her tone grew solemn, scanning the faces of everyone before her gaze lingered on Abel. "That no matter how quiet you live, they just won''t stop bothering us. I agree with you when you said for as long as they live, they wouldn''t stop. Therefore, this matter is about them or us and I definitely choose my kids."

    The corner of Abel''s lips curled up into a smirk, pleased at the resolution in Lilou''s voice. "I like you, niece."

    "What else can I do?" Samael rolled his eyes, watching his wife gaze back at him. "You already decided."

    "Thank you, Sam, and I''m sorry for being selfish again."

    "It''s not like anyone can change auntie Lilou''s mind once she already made up her mind." ude shrugged, picking up the cutlery to start eating. "It''s not surprising. I think we were all aware that it woulde down to this eventually."

    Aries observed the Grismsbannes slowly agreeing on staying and fighting against the people who kept messing with them. She particrly stared at Lilou, admiring Sunny''s mother for her confidence and the authoritative aura that wasn''t intimidating, but persuading.

    But before they could start nning for their next move, Tilly, who had been quietly eating while the rest were talking, spoke for the first time.

    "Marse is sleeping, but she''s eavesdropping. You should be quiet." Everyone paused, turning their heads in Tilly''s direction, only to see her wiping her lips. When Tilly raised her head, all she saw was the confusion stered on their faces.

    "In her room," she added, pointing in a direction. "It''s not good if she knows your ns."

    "..."

 Chapter 804 A Quick Review

    "Marse is sleeping, but eavesdropping. You should be quiet. It''s not good if she knows your ns."

    "..."

    There was a moment of silence after Tilly''s remarks. All of them stared at her pointing a finger in a direction, wide-eyed.

    "Did you just say Marse?" Conan was the first to break the silence, gasping in disbelief.

    Tilly let out a short hum, nodding.

    "She''sбн here?" he repeated in a questioning tone and Tilly nodded again, causing Conan to m his hands on the table. "That wenchбн I''m going to skin her alive!"

    The rest around the table looked at each other quietly. They all had deep lines drawn in between their brows before they stood to check the direction where Tilly told them where Marse was staying.

    Aries had already had a good grasp of what happened in the past week while she was in and out of consciousness. Although she couldn''t remember any memory of waking up during the past seven days, Abel told her she would wake up to drink his blood.

    She got all the information they needed in between their rounds of passion. ording to Abel, Marse escaped from her shackles. Abel didn''t waste his time searching for Marse with an excuse that she would surely and shamelessly show up when she wanted to. In other words, Abel was unsure if Marse got out with another person''s help or if she simply took advantage of the fact that Aries died along with Maximus.

    Aries and everyone marched to a room on the second floor with Conan on the lead. For the obvious reasons, Conan was the most furious of them all at the thought of Marse. It was understandable. Marse betrayed themбн well, not exactly, considering the person on their side was Vera, the other upant of Marse''s body. The real Marse was never their ally.

    When they arrived at the chamber, Conan immediately kicked the door open and barged inside. Following him were Aries and Abel and then the rest of the Grimsbanne who came to check with him.

    "No one''s here," mumbled Aries, only to bite her tongue right after as a particr faint scent wafted through her nose.

    "That damn bitch!" Conan cracked his knuckles, exasperated. "Did she run away, knowing I''ll beat her to a pulp?"

    "She probably runs away, knowing Tilly will kill her." Samael marched to the bed, pressing the edge of the mattress with his finger.

    "Why would Tilly kill her? If she ns to kill her, she would''ve done it. But she was sozy she just let the woman sleep." ude threw himself on the nearby armchairfortably. "It''s been a while since I wasst in this ce. It almost feels like home. Almost."

    "But howбн" Aries trailed off as Abel suddenly stood behind her, resting his chin on her shoulder while wrapping his arms around her waist.

    "Please get a room." ude deadpanned. "I have enough of seeing such an act at this point."

    Conan, who would usually lose his mind whenever there was a public disy of affection, just snorted at Abel and Aries. Meanwhile, Samael grinned as he gazed at his wife, wiggling his brows yfully. Lilou''s lips parted but ended up pressing her lips into a thin line and allowed her husband to hold her hand.

    "Anyway, I think this is a good sign," said Samael, plopping his butt down on the edge of the mattress whilst holding his wife''s hand. If Lilou wasn''t reserved, he wouldn''t mind yanking her onto hisp and caressing her while thinking of the situation. "If Marse is here, doesn''t that mean she''s working alone?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "You''re missing the point, Sam. If she''s here with no one knowing except Tilly, that means she coulde in and out under our noses with no one noticing," argued Lilou.

    "I agree with my aunt." ude shrugged, casting Abel a look. "What do you think?"

    "I thinkбн" Abel hummed, still hugging Aries from behind with his chin on her shoulder. "... I need more quality time with my darling."

    Abel''s lips stretched from ear to ear, turning his head toward his wife. "What do you think, darling?"

    "We don''t have much time." Aries snapped her eyes away from Abel, ignoring his personal desire at the moment. She pressed her lips into a thin line, letting out a sharp breath. "I know you were exhausted, but please lend us a hand in this matter."

    Her expression turned firm and sincere, giving everyone a solemn look. Samael''szy countenance didn''t change, but Lilou and ude smiled back at her. Tilly didn''t move from her spot nor did she show any other reaction.

    "Before that, can we talk about this in some other ce?" Conan proposed, raising a finger to get their attention. "I don''t like the lingering scent Marse left."

    All of them stared at Conan silently before they looked at each other, raising their brows.

    *******

    "Alright!" Samael mmed a map on the surface of the wide oak table, throwing chess pieces on top of it. He snapped his eyes at Aries across the table, jerking his chin up to her. "The table is yours, Your Majesty."

    Aries nodded, looking around at the people who had gathered in Samael''s workshop. This was the safest ce in the Grimsbanne mansion, ording to Samael. And thus, they all gathered here to have a serious talk. Aside from Fabian and the children, everyone бк Abel, Tilly, Samael, Lilou, ude, and Rufus бк was here.

    "Let''s first list down what had happened to us for the past two years," was the first thing Aries said, picking up the chest pieces to keep track of the situation. "For the past two years, Samael, Lilou, Sir Rufus, Law, and ude were stuck in the Land of Spadeбн"

    Aries ced a few pieces in a particr ce on the map and continued, "... if I remember correctly, you were only gone for two full nights. However, when you got out of the ce, two years had already gone by?"

    Aries gazed up at Samael, and thetter crossed his arms under his chest while nodding.

    "That is correct," he said.

    "I seeбн" Aries rocked her head. "Care to share the important details you had there? I don''t think this is an isted case. The Maind бк if not Maximus, someone in thisnd had something to do with it."

    Her eyelids drooped dangerously, having this list in her head. "For instanceбн the Bathorys and the Rothschild."

 Chapter 805 A Quick Review II

    ording to Samael and those who had gone missing for the past two years, they were stuck in this so-called Hell''s Gate. It was a powerful ability that only the Grimsbanne originally could wield. Through the years, exceptional vampires were able to achieve a certain level of strength and power and were able to make use of this power.

    However, unlike the Grimsbanne n, who could naturally unleash such a powerful weapon, many other people out there sought help from another party. These people were greedy enough to exploit others such as Maleficent to gain more power and stand on the same ground as the "cursed" Grimsbanne n.

    These people''s schemes went so far as to seek help from an actual demon.

    Yes. A demon.

    On the maind, there were at least three demons that existed. One of them was in the possession of the royal family, locked in the underground pce. No one knew about that aside from the king; even Conan, who was a part of the royal family and a prince, and Aries, who was the Queen of the maind. They had no idea about this demon.

    The second demon was already dead. ording to Samael, they met one in thend of Spade; thend where they were trapped for the past two years.

    And then the third one had gone missing a long time ago.

    "So aside from the demon in the Spade Kingdom, you''re telling me there were now two demons that are missing?" Aries rified, watching Samael nod leisurely. "Did you confirm this?"

    "Tilly confirmed the first missing demon, and then Abel confirmed that the underground pce is empty," ude chimed in, sitting around the table while Aries and Samael stood on opposite sides of the oval table. "These demons are already incapacitated, by the way. They were nothing but decorations you can hang around."

    "They were convenient decorations," Liloumented solemnly. "Even though these demons don''t have any capability to defend themselves or attack, drinking a drop of its blood could give a person unimaginable power."

    Her expression turned hard as if an unpleasant memory crossed her mind.

    "Fighting one demon took a lot of capable people joining hand in hand to take it down," she continued in the same tone. "But against twoбн"

    Lilou paused, lifting her eyes to everyone. "I am not sure. Let''s not ignore the fact that the night council of the maind existed. They were of a different caliber, consisting of exceptional pureblooded vampires, who had lived longer than most of us."

    There was a moment of silence after Lilou''s remarks. It wasn''t that they weren''t aware of that. Matter of fact, they exactly knew what Lilou was talking about. They simply didn''t mention it because there wasn''t an opportunity.

    "We had always known that the maind is involved in our affairs," Samael spoke after some time, breaking the prolonged silence. "We don''t know for sure what''s wrong with them, but what we''re certain of is that they waited for Tilly to leave the maind before they set their wicked ns in motion."

    "What about you?" he asked, darting his eyes between Aries and Abel. "Although we heard snippets of what happened in Haimirich from Conan, we still needed to hear the details of how things went down."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line. Of course, she knew that. She cast Abel a look, only to see thetter nod approvingly.

    "Alrightбн" Aries drew a deep breath, swallowing a mouthful of air. "Two years agoбн"<novelnext></novelnext>

    Aries detailed everything she could remember for the past two years. She started at the time Abel received a letter from Maximus regarding Maximus''s visit to the Haimirich Empire. She also shared her preparations, her countermeasures, and also, how she missed a minor detail that eventually led them to a two-year separation.

    Aries tookplete ountability for how their perfect n turned out as a failure and a learning lesson for all of them.

    "I won''t allow that to happen again," she breathed out with a jagged breath, telling herself she wouldn''t underestimate other areas ever again to avoid such a problem from arising again.

    "Problems are normal and not everything runs smoothly," Samael casually remarked. "I''m not trying to console you, but in my unbiased opinion, you did a good job in improvising in preventing more problems in the future. If you didn''t lock Abel in that damned world to get used to each other''s presence, I don''t think we''ll be sitting at the same table."

    "Sam is right." Lilou nodded. "We are already up against formidable people who want nothing but the demise of this n. I don''t think I want Maleficent on the opponent''s side."

    "Maleficent is not in Aries''s anymore," Abel chimed in with a knowing tone. "If you were listening to my wife''s exnation, Maximus drained the powers in her and her life, creating this weapon just as deadly as Fabian''s dark spear."

    "You''re missing the point, Abel. Maleficent might not be inside Aries''s anymore бк or perhaps a little bit of Maleficent was still hidden within her. We cannot put a period on a statement since all possibilities are open. Still, it is better to have Aries by our side. After all, we also needed you, Abel." Lilou argued, not beating around the bush. "I don''t think you''d be useful if your wife is one of our enemies."

    "Actuallyбн" Abel opened his mouth, but the rest of his words rolled back into his throat. He pressed his lips again, pointing at Lilou. "You make a good point, niece-inw."

    "Abel." Suddenly, Aries called with furrowed brows. She watched her husband slowly look back at her, raising his brows while tilting his head to the side.

    "Yes, darling?" he crooned, smiling coquettishly.

    "You saidбн Maximus created a weapon using Maleficent''s power."

    "Yes, I did." Abel nodded as he proudly spoke. "Maximus used it against me, but he still hadn''t had good control over it. Thus, he died."

    "So, where is it?"

    "Hmm?"

    "The weapon, Abel." Aries''s brows rose, eyes fixed on Abel. "Where did this weapon go?"

    Everyone waited for Abel''s answer patiently, but thetter just shrugged.

    "Who knows?" was the only answer Abel gave, and that was enough to add more weight to the piles of dilemmas they were already facing.

 Chapter 806 There Was No Other Way

    [ House of Leviticus ]

    Three people sat around the round stone table surrounded by shelves of books. The surface of the table had coherent markings and symbols, yet only a few could understand. Not that it mattered as the three бк London, Isaiah, and Dexter бк around the table wore a grim expressions and allowed silence to take over for a moment.

    "So this weaponбн this dangerous weapon created with Maleficent''s power and the royal blood of thete king just disappeared?" Dexter spoke after a moment of silence, tapping a finger on the table. "And you don''t know how it even disappeared?"

    "Exactly." London nodded solemnly. "And we don''t know who got it, but we''re certain of is that we need to recover it."

    "Give me a moment to process this, will you?" Dexter let out a short and dryugh, leaning forward to rest his arm on the edge of the table. "So, aside from the night council on the maind led by the Bathory and Rothschild, there was this powerful and dangerous weapon that had gone missing? On top of that, the possibility that two missing demons are kept by them or another party is stillid on the table."

    Dexterughed again, but this time with a tinge of sarcasm.

    "What a time to live!" he remarked sarcastically. "Yet, you want my sister to keep the position of the Queen when you know there will be a petition to depose her? London Leviticus, do you want to die?"

    "Apparently, I do not have any wishes to end my life without a proper legacy to leave behind. However, I am being serious. I am certain if Her Majesty is the one sitting on that chair, she would''ve agreed in a heartbeat," replied London calmly. "Though I understand your reluctance to keep an open mind because of what happened the past week. I would be just as reluctant and stubborn if I were in your position."

    "Unfortunately, you''re not in my position." Dexter slowly shifted his gaze to Isaiah. "Though I can make you wear my shoes since you imed we have the same size."

    "Don''t be so harsh on my little cousin бк"

    "I am not being harsh to him, but the other way around." Dexter cut London off mid-sentence. "My sister will not sit on that stool again. Even if she wants to, I won''t allow her. If she doesn''t listen to me, then she will listen to Abel. If that doesn''t work, we''ll lock her up. There''s no way I''d push her to stand on the frontline again. Two years had caused enough heartache and misery for her to the point she had lost her humanity to live longer. This is no longer a discussion."

    "You do not understand, Marquess."

    "I understand everything clearly. Do you want me to spell it out for you or repeat it just to prove it?"

    "Whether Her Majesty approves of it or thinks otherwise, one thing we all know is that she''s already involved in this." This time, Isaiah broke his silence. "The moment she returned that night in the Rose Pce бк the time before Her Majesty and the marquess became siblings бк no. From the time she met His Majesty during the world summit, she''s already involved. You can hide her or protect her all you want, Marquess, but she''ll never sleep with both her eyes closed."

    London rocked his head in agreement. "Exactly my point. Her Majesty is already aware of this, Marquess. It was the very reason she willingly stepped foot on the maind."

    "It''s not just because of Maleficent that was within her," London continued, leaning forward as he sported a solemn countenance. "Everyone already knew she was the key to making Wrath go on his knees."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Dexter balled his hands on hisp under the table. His jaw tightened, clenching his teeth to stop himself from spewing nonsense. Everything they had said бк even when he previously disagreed бк was nothing but facts and truths, which brought this bitterness into his heart.

    "As insulting as it may sound, some see her as a holder of a powerful witch. Others see her as leverage to open a negotiation with the Grimsbanne," London added in the same solemn tone. "You know your sister better than I am, Marquess. She hates it when others think they could use her to harm her loved ones. Her pride won''t allow that to happen."

    London breathed out heavily, leaning back as he finally had the time to speak without interruptions. "Letting her fight for the throneбн I won''t deny she will be bait. However, since her term, she had captured and acquired power over the military and royal knights."

    "I don''t know if this is called luck, but the Queenбн ording to ourw, will hold the king''s power if he ever perished without an heir." That was the very reason there was no queen on the maind.

    A queen could gain the king''s powers if thetter died. Therefore, as a safety precaution, the previous kings forced their queens to an eternal slumber once their purpose had been fulfilled. It was the reason Maximus made Aries his queen because this practice wasmon in this piece ofnd.

    It just so happened Abel woke up even before Maximus could drain thest bit of life and sanity Aries had. Fortunately, she was one tough cookie to break.

    "She has to establish that power not just for the Grimsbanne or for those who were opposed to the vision and questionable purpose of the night council, but also for herself," London remarked, this time with a firmer tone. "It might look much for you, and fighting for the throne would be a bloody path. However, it is better than outright giving that right for the throne to whoever. It will buy us some time, Marquess."

    "I hate to admit it, but that is the only way we can all run freely in thisnd," Isaiah agreed, eyes fixed on Dexter. "Running away or hiding is not an option anymore. You know that, Marquess."

    Dexter darted his eyes between Isaiah and London for a while before he loosened his grip. His tensed shoulders rxed, eyes glinting menacingly. No words were uttered, but they all had one understanding.

    There was no other way.

    A/N:

    Sorry for theck of updates. The holiday season took most of my time because my siblings came over to spend Christmas with me. It''s been a while since I celebrated Christmas, so I focused on being with my family.

    Thank you for understanding and I''ll update regrly until before New Years''s eve because I''ll be busy with new year ^^

    I hope everyone has a great time this holiday season. Sending virtual hugs and wishes to everyone!

 Chapter 807 The Owner Of The Empty March

    [ The Grimsbanne Mansion ]

    "We have no choice." Aries let out a deep exhale, concluding their family meeting. "I have toe back to the royal pce to secure my position."

    She scanned everyone''s faces and didn''t have to study them so hard to notice the displeasure stered on their faces. She just met these people, but their reaction brought this warmth to her heart.

    "I don''t like it." Abel crossed his arms under his chest, lifting his leg over the other as he leaned back. "No way in hell would I allow my wife to go back into that hell. I''ll burn it."

    "This is why I hate nning." Samael propped his elbow on the armrest, resting his jaw against his knuckles. "How about we go with my n, which is to improvise?"

    "That is exactly the opposite of a n, Sam." Lilou rolled her eyes before setting them to Aries. "I am with you in this, Aries. Although I admit it is dangerous, our enemies had been nning for this family''s demise much longer than I had existed. Fighting them head-on is just what they wanted and there''s no way in hell we''ll give that to them."

    "I am tired from fighting for two full nights and then I still have to travel. However, having a n is better than having none," ude chimed in, rocking his head. "Auntie Lilove and Aries have a point. These people had been nning for this family''s demise for a very long time. It wouldn''t be a surprise that they could kill us all, regardless of the blood hierarchy."

    ude shrugged when Abel and Samael red daggers at him, turning his head in Lilou''s direction only to sh her a grin. Lilou breathed out, nodding at ude before setting her attention back to Aries. The two of them nodded, and then they cast their respective husband stern look.

    "Abel, we have no choice," said Aries, only to hear an expected dialogue from him;

    "We always have a choice, darling." Abel cocked his head to the side. His expression was arrogant.

    "If we do, why don''t you share your suggestion?" Aries inquired, trying her best not to sound sarcastic. "I would love to hear it."

    "Wellбн" Abel ran his tongue across his inner cheek and cast Samael a quick look.

    "I already gave my suggestion, which they obviously turned down," Samael remarked the second he met his uncle''s eyes. "Though I want to stick with it, I''m afraid I''d have to sleep in the other room tonight if I speak further."

    You were on your own, was what Samael truly meant by that. Abel got the message. Knowing he got no allies anymore since ude gave in to his auntie''s charm, Abel smacked his lips and snapped his eyes back to Aries.

    "How about I kill them?" he suggested arrogantly. "It''ll be quick."

    "I can go with him!" Samael intoned, raising a hand as a volunteer to apany Abel.

    "Why do you make it sound like you''re just going to run an errand?" ude scrunched his face in dismay, darting his eyes between Abel and Samael. "If it was that easy, we wouldn''t be sitting here talking about it."

    "That is right. You two are not barbarians," Lilou added, shaking her head mildly. "Are you even listening to what we said?"

    "I can repeat everything word for word if you like." Abel grinned, winking at Samael. Thetter sported a grin of approval, only to hide his smile when his wife''s gaze fell on him.

    "How stupid," murmured Samael, signaling his wife to stay away from Abel. "Don''t talk to him, love. He thinks with his fist."

    "Sometimes, with his dick," ude muttered to himself, and fortunately, no one heard. Or rather, they just ignored hisment.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Abel." Aries let out a deep exhale, waiting for Abel to focus on her again. "Even if we all agree, we still need your approval and voluntary agreement on this."

    "That''s right!" This time, Conan couldn''t hold his tongue anymore. "You kept iming to be the reliable and rich big brother! We need your assistance in this!"

    "Rightбн" ude rocked his head, casting Rufus бк Fabian''s brother бк a look. "Right?"

    Rufus shot ude a cursory look but said nothing. Instead, he kept quiet and waited for how this first family would conclude.

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, revealing the sincerity in her eyes. "Please," she whispered, holding Abel''s gaze with no intention of looking away.

    Abel assessed his wife''s face in silence before scanning everyone present in Samael''s workshop. Except for Tilly, who didn''t have any contribution to the discussion aside from being present, and Samael, everyone was looking back at him with anticipation.

    "Do what you want," Abel spoke after a moment, looking back at Aries. "However, you''d never hear me say yes in this, darling."

    "And why is that?"

    "Because I don''t like it." Abel kept his answer simple and short. "I don''t remember the time I didn''t let you loose in every level of hell we are in, darling. It''ll be the same in these goddamn pits of hell. However, this time, I will only allow you to do what you want and I''d do mine."

    "And what are you going to do?"

    The corner of Abel''s lips stretched, peeling his eyes away from his wife to his sister, Tilly. "Why don''t you ask her?"

    Everyone furrowed their brows, shifting their attention to Tilly. Tilly, who was eating a biscuit quietly and slowly, stopped. She lifted her head, only to see multiple pairs of eyes cast upon her.

    Tilly blinked before shezily looked back at Abel.

    "They''re asking what I''d do, sister. I told them to ask you since you''re my sister and you might know." Abel shrugged, summarizing the reason for the attention on Tilly.

    "Let him be." Tilly''s voice was small and soft, looking away from his arrogant big brother. "And stick to Lilou''s n. Abel has better things to do."

    "Errбн like?" ude blurted out, intrigued.

    "iming the title that my father passed on to him in the House of Lords." Everyone stared nkly at Tilly while Abel smirked. Aries furrowed her brows as if she had recalled one crucial detail.

    "The title of the Marquess," Conan whispered as if he also remembered something, snapping his eyes back to Abel. "You''ll take the legal title and reinstate this house?!"

    The corner of Abel''s lips stretched even wider until his teeth were showing. "I don''t see any reason I shouldn''t. You should also return to that pce, dearest Conan. The blood hierarchy had lost its value, but titles are precious in thisnd бк it seems."

 Chapter 808 The Owner Of The Empty March II

    ording to the book of record, although the Grimsbanne n never took part in royal affairs and politics, they were still a part of the nobility. It was just that they steered clear of anything and stayed inconspicuous. Although they were infamous for many things, such as having the purest form of blood and being descendants of the devil, being a nobility wasn''t a part of it. Therefore, that fact was buried until it was nearly forgotten.

    Aries read about it before, making use of her free ess to the royal library where a good deal of information about the royalties, nobilities, and the maind was recorded. She didn''t give much thought to it before because she didn''t find any reason to dwell on it.

    But now that Tilly mentioned it, many ideas came into her mind. Having someone from the Grimsbanne n im a noble title, Abel coulde in and out of the royal pce. He would also gain ess to the royal court and his right to vote in it would make a vast difference.

    If Aries could secure the throne with Conan by her side as a prince, they wouldn''t be much at a disadvantage. Not to mention, London Leviticus would surely side with them for the right purpose. Of course, the possibility that the enemy had considered this hadn''t left the table. However, having more people in the royal court was better than just Aries as the queen.

    Just like Abel said, the time these people challenge the Grimsbanne, the blood hierarchy had lost its effectiveness. But at the same time, titles were surprisingly powerful in thisnd. Aries didn''t know the reason for it, but considering vampires liked the idea of ranks and nobility, it wasn''t surprising.

    "I don''t want to go back to that ce." Conan frowned deeply, speaking his mind when Samael, Lilou, ude, and Rufus left the workshop where they had their meeting.

    The meeting concluded with Aries and Conan returning to the royal pce to im what was "theirs." Aries never imed the seat of the queen in thisnd as hers, but her desire to secure her throne was twice as her determination back in thend of Rikhill. Meanwhile, Conan didn''t agree just yet, but his reluctance about it was as clear as day.

    "No one is forcing you," replied Aries, sitting across from Conan. "It was merely a suggestion, but if you hate the idea, you can just stay here with everyone. No pressure."

    "That makes it even worse," Conan mumbled as he sighed, making his shoulders rx. "Prince бк pwe! I was better when I was a duke in Haimirich. I may not be royalty in there, but I at least, get decent treatmentpared to when I was a prince."

    "I''d be there with you." Conan lifted his eyes at Aries, only to see her reassuring smile. "I won''t let them bully you."

    "Yet, you do it."

    "I am the only one who is allowed to do that."

    "Wicked woman." Conan snapped his tongue in irritation. "Knowing you''d be there with me doesn''t make it reassuring even the slightest."

    From all the things Aries and Abel put Conan through, thetter was so done with them. But then again, he couldn''t also stand the sheer thought that the two of them might die. It was aplicated feeling of love and hate.

    Aries chuckled faintly, knowing that despite Conan''s reluctance, thetter already got his answer. It wasn''t about having no choice or other options. Conan wouldn''t let Aries all alone in that damn pce, knowing that was the most dangerous ce Aries had been and would ever be in.

    Conan knew because he used to live in that ce.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Your Majesty бк" Conan stopped as soon as his eyes fell on Abel, catching thetter staring at the table, deep in thought.

    Noticing the sudden confusion stered on Conan''s face, Aries also turned her head in Abel''s direction. Deep lines appeared in between her brows, staring at Abel. There was no memory in their heads that they could recall Abel spacing out, so seeing him spacing out for the first time was a shocking sight to behold.

    Aries''s lips parted, only to press them into a thin line again. She then cast Conan a look at the same time thetter looked at her. They only stared at each other for a moment before setting them back to Abel. Worry instantly shone in their eyes.

    After a minute of total silence, Abel blinked ever so tenderly, only to meet the pairs of worried eyes cast upon him. The corner of his lips curled up slightly.

    "I once said I will never inherit more from my father right in front of his face," he remarked in a low tone with a tinge of yfulness and mockery in it. "And his only response is that the things they had set out for me to protect my kinбн wille in handy in the future. I never thought what he had said in the past woulde true."

    The events took quite some time to happen, but they still happened. Quite unbelievable, and silly, but Abel felt slightly irked that his father was right.

    "Not only did they pass this cursed blood on me, but now I''d have to seek the title he was once known." The smile lines on the corners of his lips slightly faded. "I feel like pping him from where he was buried."

    "He wasn''t buried," Tilly chimed in, making Abel look at her. "I burned their bodies when I couldn''t see in the night, only to realize I had my eyes closed all along."

    "Too bad then."

    "No one can im the title aside from you," continued Tilly, picking up the biscuit she had been munching but still hadn''t finished half of it. "Get it before Marse does."

    Abel leaned backfortably, cocking his head until hiszy eyes fell on Aries. "Darling, will you marry me when I get the title of the Marquess? I need some motivation."

    "If you don''t want to бк"

    "Will you?"

    "You already know the answer to that."

    "Then it''s decided." Abel grinned, peeling his eyes from her to the ceiling. The ce they were idling in was Samael''s workshop, and it wasn''t a surprise that even the ceiling had the art of angels and demons on it. "We бк they will soon understand the reason the blood hierarchy exists."

 Chapter 809 It Was Beautiful, Just How I Like It.

    Abel sat in front of the firece, staring at the burning wood. The light of the fire danced on his face, its movement was clear in his eyes. After their meeting, they all went on their separate way.

    Knock Knock!

    Abel didn''t react even after three clear knocks rang inside the room he was in. His attention was fixed on the hearth.

    The person outside the room slowly pushed the door open, revealing Aries as she peeked her head in. Her eyes searched the room, instantly catching the beautiful man sitting on the armchair in front of the hearth. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, stepping inside the bedroom carefully.

    Aries approached Abel while barely making a sound, standing behind the chair. She then bent over, wrapping her arms around his neck. Her chin rested on his shoulder, eyes on his side profile.

    "My ears are open," she said, making Abel turn his head to her. "It''s quite a surprise that you easily agreed to part ways earlier. So, I was a bit concerned and came here after a short talk with Sir Conan."

    The corner of his lips curled up, holding her arm to put it away. Abel then guided her arm, assisting her to sit on hisp. Her legs rested over the armrest, sitting on hisp with her arms over his shoulder.

    "I do not have unresolved issues with my father, darling. If that is what you are worried about." Abel caressed her cheek with his fingertips, staring at her face as if engraving every pore in his mind. "I tend to dwell on things in the past, but I guarantee you they were not one of them."

    "What is the reason you are here, then?"

    "Call it swallowing my pride and wallowing about it." He dropped his hand and circled it around her waist, pulling her body closer to him. "Back then, I had this small fight with my father. I used to hate the blood sustaining this endless nightmare called life and thus, I push all the me on him and Mother."

    He raised his brows briefly, shrugging. "If they didn''t reproduce, I wouldn''t be here."

    "And if you''re not here, I''d be sad."

    "I bet you''ll be." Abel pinched her chin and smiled. "I''m like a burst of sunshine after all that only illuminates hope."

    Aries bit her lip as she suppressed a mischievousugh froming out. "Of course, you are like a ray of sunshine. I totally agree with that."

    "I am fine, darling." Abel smiled, reassuring her after a brief silence. "However, if you offer something worthy as an attempt to appease me, then I''d take it."

    "Being with you is the only constion I can give at the moment." Her brows rose. "Would that suffice?"

    Abel stared at her with eyes so gentle with a dangerous undertone. Aries raised her hand carefully, touching the corner of his eyes.

    "Whenever you look at me like this, I can''t help but recall how your eyes look back then," she whispered, sporting a subtle smile as she had a quick tour in memoryne.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "And what were they before?"

    "Empty." Her reply was soft but quick. "And each time you have that look in your eyes, I dislike the person they mirror."

    Abel cocked his head to the side. "And why is that?"

    "Because the person those empty eyes mirrors doesn''t look like she could change them." Aries lowered her eyes slightly, smiling bitterly, remembering the look on her face back then. "In those empty eyes, she always looks like someone, but back then, I knew she was no one."

    She lifted her gaze to meet his. "She was nothing, and you knew that. Therefore, you don''t look at her with hope or someone who could help you. But rather, someone you know would disappear in due time."

    Silence followed her remarks as they stared at each other, recalling the days in the past when both of them were hopeless. Oh, how time had passed so quickly. Who would have thought?

    "We''vee this far, Abel," Aries continued, breaking the prolonged silence between them. "We didn''te this far, only toe this far. Especially now that we could live together forever. I will stake it all, fighting for the future I could have with you."

    "You make my heart flutter, darling." Abel cupped her lean face, gently brushing her lips with his thumb. "How reassuring."

    "Did you think I was doing all this simply because I want to live in peace?" Aries let out a short chortle. "Of course I want peace. But without you in it, I''d rather listen to the loud screams in hell than the harmonious harp music the angels y."

    Aries adjusted her position, nting her hands on his shoulder, eyes locked with his. "With that being said, I would rather earn the future I want to spend the rest of this endless nightmare called life with you instead of running away for a momentary peace."

    "You taught me how to face my demons and made me realize I will never get rid of them. Thus, I learned how to co-exist and dance with them," she added, cupping his lean cheek as affection swirled in her eyes. "I might''ve said this countless times before, but once this was over, let''s live a life that is on our own terms."

    Abel could only stare at her and listen to everything that rolled out of those plumped lips. Each of her words touched a part of his heart that only Aries could reach. He didn''t even know that part of his heart existed until he met her.

    "You make it so easy to swallow my pride and go back with my words, darling. That prize you deem a constion was more worthy of the grand prize." Abel leaned his face forward until his forehead and the tip of his nose were touching hers. He slowly closed his eyes, imagining the life he wanted to have with her.

    Surprisingly, it wasn''t a life of luxury. It was simply a life offort with her in it, living in a not-so-grandiose mansion with a spacious garden they could spend azy afternoon together.

    "How nice." The side of his lips curled up into a smile, reopening his eyes. He drew his head back slightly to look at her face. "Did you see it?"

    A subtle smile turned up on her face. "I did. It was beautiful, just how I like it."

 Chapter 810 Serenade

    Haimirich.

    Rikhill.

    Maganti.

    There were countlessnds they had ruled over, iming different titles, and having fortunes one couldn''t imagine.

    Abel had built his fortune for a long time as the emperor of a prosperous empire that everyone feared and admired. Meanwhile, despite Aries''s crest and troughs, she had built a new fortune under her name. She might not have the same amount of fortune as Abel, but Aries''s connections had been her strong point.

    Both of them were admirable; they were individuals who could make wavesrge enough to shake the world. Yet, the goal they sought wasn''t any close to a life of luxury or power.

    All they wanted was a good garden where they could spend azy afternoon. Perhaps host simple but heartwarming family gatherings too. Not anything grand. Just a ce the two of them could enjoy each other''spany.

    "It''s beautiful. Just how I like it."

    Aries''s smile reached her beautiful eyes that were twinkling beautifully as if all the suns in the night sky had gathered in her pair of emeralds. The man with her eyes mirrored also smiled affectionately, cupping her face.

    "My instincts tell me it is the perfect moment for a kiss, but not anything more than that," Abel remarked, warranting a shortugh from her. "May I?"

    "Help yourself." Aries shrugged faintly, smiling as she watched him tilt his head. Aries held her breath for a moment, clutching his shoulder as she slowly closed her eyes.

    It wasn''t the first, but even now, her heart would still race every time his breath would touch her upper lips, and every time she would feel his hands on her skin. When his lips touched her soft ones, Aries drew a deep breath as he pulled her body closer.

    His gentle yet passionate kiss ignited her body, slowly burning her skin. The heat that his kiss brought eventually reached her heart, cradling it with its warmth. She felt snug and safe, allowing his firm arms to wrap around her body.

    Aries breathed out heavily when Abel parted his lips from her, resting his forehead against hers. He moved his head slightly, brushing the tip of his nose against hers.

    "Should we talk about family nning?" he asked, causing deep lines to appear between her brows. Abel drew his head back slightly to look her straight in the eye. "Didn''t you want to have a child?"

    "You didn''t want one."

    "Not ready, not that I didn''t want one," he corrected, brushing her cheek with the back of his fingers. "How many?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she stared deeply into his eyes. It was one of her dreams to have a family with Abel, carry his child, and raise them together with love. Just like how Aries was raised. However, she threw that dream at the back of her head, knowing having a child or not didn''t matter.

    Aries and Abel could still be a family, even if it was just the two of them.

    Hearing him say he was ready to have a child with her feltбн strange. Her silence didn''t root from thinking of an answer, but she was just stunned and speechless.

    "One?" Abel guessed after another minute of silence. "Two? Four? Come on, darling. Don''t tell me you want more than ten little evilmbs. I am not a maniac like Samael, who wants to build an army of little demons, only toin when they start calling out his bull."

    "How many we would get blessed to have?" she replied in an uncertain tone.

    "Darling, what an irony. With my blood and yours? Do you think they would get the favors of the heavens?"

    "Our sinsбн had nothing to do with our children." Aries smiled. "We may not be the best, but at least we''re trying, right?"

    Aries smacked her lips as she drew a deep breath, calming down the excitement in her heart. "Let''s talk about it next time. Once this was all over, we''ll figure things outбн just like what we always do."

    Abel remained quiet, staring at the enthusiastic twinkle in her eyes. She looked happy, and that alone was enough tofort him.

    "What ifбн this world wouldn''t forgive them because their parents were sinners?" he blurted out quietly, revealing a portion of his worry and one of the many reasons having a child never crossed him back then.

    "Thenбн we''ll give them a safe ce in this unforgiving world." Her lips curled up subtly. "I know you are scared. I am too, Abel. That is why we will figure things out once everything is over."<novelnext></novelnext>

    He knew that. Abel was aware this was too early to talk about it, but he needed a lot of mental preparation. After all, in his mind, their current problem was already over the moment he stepped into thisnd. They could struggle all they want, but Abel already imed victory.

    "Rx." Aries nted a brief and soft kiss on his lips. "With this kind of environment, I don''t think I can handle pregnancy. Until every single one in that night council was dead, I will never bring a life into this world."

    "At least, we have one thing inmon regarding this matter."

    Aries chuckled, pinching his cheek and stretching them slightly. "I am just happy, Abel. That the possibilities of victory have many possibilities."

    "That is why do not die. If you die, I will бк"

    "I won''t." Aries shook her head, smiling. "If I die, you''ll die as well, right?"

    "Exactly."

    "Then I won''t." Her lips stretched broader. "I''d die twice if you die."

    Aries kept a warm smile as she watched him slowly smile back. This time, Aries was the one who leaned her face forward, iming his lips. Abel slowly closed his eyes, enjoying the softness and sweetness of her lips.

    As their kiss deepened, both of them paused and parted their lips from each other. Aries furrowed her brows, eyes at Abel.

    "Sunny is ying the piano, it seems," said Abel with a smile. "Shall we join them?"

    Aries face brightened up as she nodded. "Mhm."

    With that being said, Abel ushered her to the mansion''s great hall. As they stepped out of the hallway leading to the great hall, Aries caught everyone scattered in the hall while watching the little girl y the piano.

    Aries cast Abel a smile, holding his arm. But before she could say a word, Fabian appeared before them with a tray in his hand.

    "The young miss wanted to showcase what she learned in Haimirich," exined Fabian while Abel grabbed two wine sses on the tray for him and Aries. "Please pter. She''ll be very disheartened if you don''t."

    "You don''t have to say that and make it sound like you''re bribing us, Fabian," Aires humored, epting the ss of wine from Abel. "Thank you."

    Abel just tipped his head before casting Fabian a look. Thetter maintained his smile.

    "Very well. Please enjoy the night." Fabian left the two alone to serve Tilly some drinks and snacks.

    Sunny yed the piano beautifully but then halted. Everyone''s brows rose, watching the little girl look around to search for someone.

    "Grandpa~!" Sunny waved, grinning. "Come! Let''s y together~!"

    Abel cocked his head to the side before he felt a tug on his arm.

    "I want to hear you y," said Aries the second he locked eyes with her. "I''m certain everyone wants to hear it too."

    Abel arched a brow before scanning the faces around. They didn''t look like they were looking forward to hearing him y the piano, but when his eyesnded on the adorable Sunny, Abel shrugged.

    "I''ll be right back. It seems that little glutton will bite my head off if I refuse her," Abel excused himself to Aries.

    Seeing Abel approach, Sunny pped excitedly before she scoot over the seat to give her grandfather some space to sit on. Abel dropped some unapologetic remarks to Sunny, to which thetter replied with a grin.

    It didn''t take long before the sound of the piano echoed in the great hall. Aries could have sworn the music piece Abel had yed which she knewposed by him, was undeniably a masterpiece. The smile on everyone''s face as they listened to the serenade was enough proof they enjoyed it just as much as Aries.

    It was just total silence as everyone focused on the music, the emotion it brought, echoing across the Grimsbanne''s territory and the Maind, turning the chilly night warmer than it was.

 Chapter 811 Augustine Evans

    Dayster in the Maind''s royal courtбн

    "London Leviticus!" a man''s voice thundered across the royal court right in front of the empty throne. "How can you propose such a ridiculous idea?"

    "It is not ridiculous, my lord," responded London to one of the twelve royal ministers in the Maind. "My suggestion still edes to thew of our mightynd."

    "Even so, the Queen is nothing but an outsider thete king took in!"

    "She is still the Queen, regardless of her origins!" London mmed his hand on the surface of the table, standing up from his seat. His eyes burned with firmness, staring at the man across from him. "When thete king took her in, aside from me, no one at this table raised such concerns."

    "ording to ourw, if the king perished without a direct heir, the crown will naturally fall to his queen. This was the very reason I opposed thete king back then; it was too risky. However, you all told me I am being presumptuous to even think so far ahead," he continued. "Now, we are in this situation we could''ve avoided. Where are all the people who argued with me back then?"

    "His and Her Majesty did not go through a proper wedding ceremony," another minister jumped into the discussion. "It is not valid."

    "What sort of validation does the Queen need when it was clearly written in the royal family registry that she was the wife of the previous king?" London rebutted, calming himself down as he felt the minister was also backing down. "I will not fight for her if not for it."

    "You will not fight for her if not for the benefit this shift of power will give you."

    "The audacity!" London''s originally feminine voice sounded firmer, like a man, thundering across the royal court at the nder his colleague had spewed. "I and my house pledged to protect the Maind бк no, we pledged to protect our kind from any injustice and give them equal rights, which we were deprived of for many years."

    "The maind had separated itself from the rest of the world, not because we wanted to live in seclusion, but to hide. Now that the Maind had officially be and that all other nations recognize and has taken the very first step to bing a part of this world, I will let no one stop us from taking what was originally ours; freedom," London remarked, stressing each word so they all understand where he wasing from. "More than this silly idea that I would benefit from supporting the so-called outsider you kept addressing, I''m afraid you were simply reflecting your own greed."

    "nder!" the minister harrumphed, but London didn''t stop.

    "Then tell me why no one had raised concerns when thete king took in an outsider and made her his queen?" London''s eyes burned, keeping them glued on the minister. "Aside from that, tell me why no one even tried to stop thete king from leaving the maind and heading to thend owned by a Grimsbanne?"

    London slowly scanned the faces around the long table, seeing how the faces of some of them turn red in anger. Very few of them kept a nonchnt and calm demeanor.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "We are not born yesterday not to know who the Grimsbanne are and what they were capable of doing, especially the Originals," he added with a tinge of disappointment in his voice. "Yet, you let thete king poke the most dangerous Grimsbanne, knowing the oue was uncertain. I am simply being modest here and I''m trying my best to avoid broaching any personal issues. However, if I would be frank, I would say this was all a part of the wicked scheme to gain more powers once the king dies in the hands of the only person who wouldn''t hesitate to take his life."

    "London Leviticus!" the same man who had been arguing with London raised his voice, fuming in anger at the ridiculous nder London had spewed. "One more word, and I''ll let you understand why this court exists."

    London''s irises dted, smirking. "Show me, Lord Augustine. It would be an honor to be mentored by the great Augustine, who went missing the night Abel Grimsbanne attacked the royal pce."

    Augustine Evans, the minister of finance, hissed at the presumptuous London Leviticus. His pupils constricted in anger, allowing his fangs to reveal themselves. Meanwhile, London didn''t back down as he pulled an aura on him.

    The tension in the royal court peaked, but some people sitting around the same table didn''t show any trace or willingness to stop wherever this tension leads. A few of them showed slight concern, darting their eyes between London and Augustine.

    This was the problem they all had been facing since the death of Maximus. Since the throne was currently empty, almost everyone just wanted to get a piece of the pie. However, with London guarding this pie and some of them unwilling to take part in this fiasco, things just remained stagnant.

    This was in the royal court, though.

    No one had an idea what was going on the other side of the day, but surely, it wasn''t a stalemate like the royal court.

    "I only rested for the past week, and here you are, bickering like children who don''t know what''s best for them."

    Suddenly, amidst the growing tension between London and Augustine, a familiar calm voice of a woman echoed quietly in the royal court. Everyone froze for a moment, hearing calm footsteps approaching. When they recovered, they all slowly turned their heads in the woman''s direction, only to see her stand in front of the empty throne.

    "I kept wondering why no one came to rescue me when their queen was abducted by a barbaric man." Aries slowly sat down on the throne as if it was hers to begin with. "Now I understand. You are all too busy quarreling about who gets the biggest portion of the pie. I guess myte husband starved you all."

    The corner of Aries''s lips curled up into a smirk, leaning against her side as she propped her arm on the armrest. "What''s with that look, Augustine? Don''t look at me as if you were looking at a ghost бк were you expecting that I had died? Oh, silly you. I''ll let it slide since I am obviously entertained listening to how you want to disregard thew of the Maind."

 Chapter 812 Happy New Year~!

    It was already mentioned thews on the Maind were absolute. Even Maximus could barely break them. But now that the current talk in the royal court regards the person who would sit on the throne, it was a long discussion in the royal court.

    If Maximus produced an heir, there would be no problem. Another case that would be in many people''s favor would be Aries''s death. If the Queen died, then the throne would naturally fall to thete king''s sibling or those who were in line for the throne.

    But the queen was alive.

    Even if many people wanted to disregard it, Aries was still legally the queen. They couldn''t just ignore that. It used to be an empty title when Maximus was alive, seeing Aries as nothing but a worker with a title too lovely for the ears.

    That title wasn''t as empty as before, though. Especially now that Maximus was already dead, and the queen was right in front of them, wearing a cunning expression no one had seen before. She looked like someone who had seen thising, and thus, she endured the two years of being Maximus''s wife.

    Oh, little cunning witch.

    "It seems many of you oppose the idea of my session of the throne. I understand." Aries broke the brief silence before it could dominate the royal court. "I won''t deny that I am but an outsider, who somehow captivated the eyes of my beloved Maximus."

    Aries propped her jaw against her knuckles, keeping her eyes on the long table before her throne. "My dearest husband fought for this marriage and thus, I want to honor his death by protecting thend he governed almost all his life."

    Nonsense.

    Everything that came out of her vile mouth was nothing but bullshit. However, no one dared argue with her, knowing she could twist anything that they would say. Just like how she was twisting Maximus''s sarcasm whenever he talked about their "lovely" marriage.

    "Denying my right to the throne means thews in thisnd have little to value," she continued,ying facts everyone hadn''t forgotten. It was the reason they simply couldn''t gang up on London because London was shielding his argument with the proper royal protocol.

    Aries had every right to the throne, regardless if she just came here for two years. Disregarding this crucial fact would surely bring problems to the Maind. It would only mean that thews in thisnd were nothing and thus, it would fuel any troublemakers бк for instance, the Grimsbannes бк to have a reason to break the rules.

    It was a tricky situation, making it hard for everyone to reach a conclusion.

    "I am mystified at how this discussion came to a point where we couldn''t discuss other important things just because you all opposed the idea of me being a queen." Her tone was calm, but the distinction in it was clear and firm. "There were many other areas in this court has to address, especially with the Grimsbanne in the maind."

    "You don''t speak as though you are not on their side!" Augustine spat out in dismay. "The level of hypocrisy in this court turns my stomach бк"

    "The feeling is mutual, Augustine." Aries cut him off calmly, assessing the man who was the most hypocritical of all. "I had dealt with all of you for the past two years and let many snide remarks slide. If I am wicked, I would''ve ordered someone to silence your unnecessary songs. But I am not wickedбн just unforgiving."

    Augustine balled his hand into a tight fist as his face turned red. His nose red, grinding his teeth, eyes burning at Aries. Meanwhile, Aries just offered him a raised brow before casting London a cursory look.

    ''Just right on time,'' thought London, concealing the relief that resurfaced in his eyes. ''I didn''t want to stain my newly trimmed nails.''

    "Everyone can be handled ordingly if you keep an open mind. Forget about getting arge piece of the pie and cooperate all for the sake of the better Maind." Aries nted her hands on the armrest. "I may be an outsider, but I am still the queen of the maind. We can go on and on about this, but this will be an endless discussion. The longer this throne is empty, the more problems will arise. Not only in the Maind but also from outside our territory."

    "Everyoneбн knew that the Maind is now in turmoil with no person on the helm. Do not underestimate the countries outside and the people who walked on thisnd during the summit," she continued. "Even if thisnd is reigned by vampires, there is no telling if we could stand against the world."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Aries paused, glossing her eyes over the faces in the royal court. "Do you understand how important this coronation was?"

    Silence followed Aries''s remarks as everyone cast each other a quick look before setting their eyes on her. It wasn''t like they didn''t know what she had mentioned. Of course, they knew about it. It was just that it would take a ton of their pride to agree an outside would reign over themбн and she was a witch on top of that.

    "It seemed Her Majesty isn''t just a witch anymore." After minutes of nothing but silence, a minister who looked like he was in his early forties broke the silence with his calm voice. "I can smell the blood of Grimsbanne running in you."

    "Is that a problem, Rothschild?" Aries arched a brow, tilting her head to the side.

    "It is not. Even though Abel Grimsbanne was the one who took the life of the king, it all happened in a duel between vampires," said the man Aries called Rothschild. "Therefore, he wasn''t held ountable in this royal court. All I''m saying is that since you had be one of us бк regardless of who turned you бк matters not."

    Rothschild nted his hand across his chest, bowing slightly. "I, Cornelius Rothschild, pledged to support the Queen. Your words will be mine and your will shall be my will."

    Aries smiled subtly, seeing Cornelius take the oath of supporting her as the new ruler of thend. Seeing this, confusion was apparent on some of the minister''s faces. But those who wanted to be in Cornelius''s good graces also pledged their oath to the queen until almost half of the twelve ministers bowed to her.

    "I still see some people who didn''t seem to share the sentiments like the majority at this table," said Aries with a subtle smile. "However, that is alright. Since the majority had already decided, the coronation would be held in two days."

    "Two days?" Augustine gasped in disbelief.

    "Two days is enough. Thisnd hadn''t had an official ruler for over a week and we don''t know what was everything concocting. Moreover, aside from my coronation, I would like to hold a banquet for someone," she announced, causing deep lines to appear on everyone''s forehead. They stared at her, watching how her modest smile stretch into a smirk. "I would like to hold a weing banquet for Prince Conan. Finally, after his long mission outside the Maind, he returned."

    Presumptuous, was the first thought that came to everyone''s mind, knowing Conan wasn''t anything she imed him to be. But the problem was, Conan has never been dered a traitor. The king before Maximus IV only told everyone his son went out on a mission to protect his beloved son.

    "Do not fret." Aries chuckled, noticing the slight fear that shone in their eyes at the mention of Conan''s name. "Prince Conan might be a littleбн yful. But he used to be the second in line for the throne next to myte husband. Don''t you think it''s better to have him around since there''s no guarantee the Queen wouldn''t be in danger once she carries the crown?"

    Her eyelids drooped as her eyes revealed a cunning glint that illuminated in the tint of red. "He is not an outsider like I am, andpare to me, he holds the blood of the royal familyбн don''t you think?"

    And just like that, Aries poked fun at their endless discussion about the fact she was an outsider. Having Conan reinstate his title and position was just as worse as weing an outsider as their sovereign.

    This was bad.

    A/N:

    Happy new year everyone! How was your new year? I hope you had a wonderful time. 2022 was full of twists and turns for me, but I felt blessed for the opportunities that opened up for me. I remembered the time months ago when I felt hopeless and kept questioning my ability to write a story. But because of all of your support and encouragement, I kept going.

    If not for your undying support and love, The Tyrant''s Pet, wouldn''t get aic adaptation nor it would be one of the Books of the Year 2022!

    Cheers to that! Read Author''s Notes!!

 Chapter 813 House Of Lords

    "Prince Conan might be a littleбн yful. But he used to be the second in line for the throne next to myte husband. Don''t you think it''s better to have him around since there''s no guarantee the Queen wouldn''t be in danger once she carries the crown?"

    Aries observed the change in their expression, and she couldn''t help but smile in satisfaction. These people, particrly the men in this royal court, never failed to give her a headache. If not for the experience Aries had gone through as the empress of Haimirich and following Abel around way before that, these men would overwhelm him.

    Not that they never did. To be frank, they used to intimidate her. Aries was just used to keeping an unfazed countenance before intimidating people. Abel mentored her well. Still, it was different to be waging war by using words against these ministers бк who were all noble pureblooded vampires бк alone, than now.

    Aries might be alone in this royal court, but she knew that there were people бк reliable people бк who had her back. So even if she was nothing but a turned vampire and a witch who had lost her powers, she wouldn''t give in to the superiority of their blood. Giving in wasбн never in Aries''s vocabry. Being stubborn was her talent, after all.

    "Is there still any objection? If you do, please raise your hand. Let''s get done with it once and for all." Her smile remained, raising her brows briefly, glossing her eyes over their faces. "No?"

    A look of disapproval dominated their faces, some didn''t bother to conceal their scornful look. Yet, no one objected anymore because Aries left a clear point. They could go on and on, arguing about why Aries shouldn''t sit on the throne. However, it was pointless.

    Even if they sessfully stop Aries''s coronation, if Conan was on the maind, then that would be another problem. Those who carried malice had to step back. After all, it wasn''t the end of the world if Aries became the sovereign of the maind for a while.

    They could depose her at any time.

    "Since that is settled, I am looking forward to the night of my coronation." Her smile brightened up, ignoring the scornful look stered on their faces. "And also, I think some of you should rush to your post and offices."

    Aries''s smile slowly faded as if she recalled something very important. She rubbed her chin mildly, quirking her brow at them. Deep lines appeared between their brows while others didn''t seem to show any interest in what she was thinking about.

    "Before I escaped my abduction, I overheard this strange conversationбн" she trailed off, humming to trigger their intrigue. "... something about being reinstated and an empty march?"

    Aries cocked her head to the side. "I don''t know what that means, but lest you hadn''t figured it out, I was held captive in the mansion in the Forbidden Forest. I''m still surprised at how I managed to leave that cursed forest."

    Aries didn''t need to deny things, yet she chose to lie since words were important within the pce walls; public image too. Not that she was lyingбн as per what she told herself, but rather reworded things to suit the taste of the maind.

    "I''ll see you all in two nights." Aries pushed herself up, staying in the royal court for only five minutes.

    She didn''t hesitate to turn around, walked away, and left them all behind. As soon as she stepped out of the royal court, she was weed by her personal handmaiden, Suzanne, and the queen''s chambein, Gustav.

    "That was quick, Your Majesty," said Gustav, catching Aries''s triumphant smirk.

    "Of course." Aries let out a chuckle. "Let''s go. I do not want to be here anymore. The level of hypocrisy started to get into my head."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Yes, Your Majesty."

    The two of them бк Suzanne and Gustav бк bowed, making a way for the queen. Aries simply cast the two of them a nce before she resumed her steps; the two followed a step behind her.

    ******

    Meanwhile, in the House of Lords, several knights rushed inside the pce, where the head of each noble house gathered for a formal agenda. Seeing that the knights were in a rush, the nobles couldn''t help but whisper among themselves.

    "What is going on here?" asked a nobleman, darting his eyes at the knights running through the stairs. "Is there an intruder?"

    "There should be."

    "Quite boldбн whoever that is."

    "It reminds me of that time when that young boy from the Grimsbanne n intruded on the House of Lords."

    "It''s always those people who caused trouble on the maind."

    "Are they always?" another one listening to the men''s conversation chimed in. All the men around turned their heads in the voice direction, and their gazended on a woman. Her hand fan blocked half of her face, but what they all first caught was her midnight blue eyes and her tanplexion.

    "The House of Lords is a ce for everyone to express free speech. There is no need to keep modest and avoid ming the real culprits," said the noblewoman whom no one knew about. She ignored the slight confusion and intrigue stered on the men''s faces, lifting her eyes to the second floor where she could see the knights running as if they were in for a raid.

    "If anything, I think the Grimsbannes should be annoyed at this point," she whispered to herself. "After all, it seemed some bitter and sour vampires couldn''t stand the idea that there were people who would never submit to their hypocrisy."

    Her midnight blue eyes twinkled, turning on her heel, and walked away from the eyes cast upon her.

    ''I am looking forward to what will happen in this damnnd.'' The woman clutched her chest, feeling this small dagger hidden within her dress. The dagger glowed slightly from underneath the fabric, giving off the scent of Maleficent.

    ''Things will be interesting in thend where all the roots of our problems were nted, Maleficent.''

 Chapter 814 Are We Still Under Arrest?

    BANG!

    Knights kicked down the main office of the House of Lords, rushing inside with their weapons and raised hostility. Just now, they heard from someone in the Royal Court that someone might''ve or would''ve intruded on the establishment.

    After the knights heard this, they raised the security around the area while all higher-up officials attended the Royal Court. Much to their dismay, upon raising the security and conducting a quick observation of the people within the establishment, the knights discovered unconscious knights, some low and middle-ranking officials, hidden in the most unchecked chambers in the House.

    After a quick but thorough search, the knights were led to this chamber where the intruder could''ve hidden, only to be proven wrong. The intruder wasn''t just one person, and they weren''t here to hide.

    The knights slowed down after surrounding the chancery. Their eyesnded on the people inside, sitting idly around the chancery as if they were in thefort of their homes.

    There were a few details everyone noticed, such as their uniformed ck clothes, silver hair, and bright crimson eyes.

    The chancery they barged into was where the most powerful and influential men in the nobility gathered. Thus, the presence of the long table. But instead of the nobles on the maind, the long table was surrounded by a few people.

    Abel was standing at the end of the long table. His hand was on the edge of the table with his other on his hip. The nearest seat from his vantage point was upied by a petite woman sitting motionless. The knights almost lingered on the thought of how pale she was, but the bell tied around her long, white hair that was touching the floor caught their attention.

    There was also a man sitting across from Tilly, and some of them recognized that face.

    Samael.

    Beside Samael was his wife, the only person who didn''t share the same hair color with a lighter shade of hazel. Beside Lilou (Samael''s wife), was a boy sitting on the table while using the chair to rest his feet. And then another child бк a girl бк standing on top of the long table.

    There were a few more people inside. The one on the other end of the table, sittingzily with his elbows resting on the armrests with his fingertips touching each other; another one was standing almost behind Abel.

    Eight people.

    There were exactly eight intruders, shamelessly and openly idling in the respectable chamber of the Lords.

    Who else would have got the nerve to do such a devious act aside from the infamous Grimsbanne n?

    Seeing all the Grimsbannes in ck with their bright crimson eyes staring back at them, the knights grew even more wary. Others couldn''t help but gulp, sensing the natural intimidating air this family emanated.

    It was almost deadly.

    ''Almost.'' was what they all wanted to believe.

    "Uhmmбн" Abel cleared his throat after a total of one minute since the knights barged in, only to say nothing. "Pardon me, but is there something you need?"

    His voice brought back the knights from their momentary trance, reviving their fiery hearts to execute their duties.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "We were told that an intruder barged into the House of Lords." A stern voice of a knight resounded in the spacious chancery. His armor differed from the rest, disying he was of a much higher rank than the rest. "Therefore, we came here to check and arrest the intruders."

    Abel gasped, nting his hand across his chest. "My goodness. I didn''t know such a thing happens in the House of Lords."

    "The audacity! Surely, some people just have a death wish!" Samael harrumphed, mming the bottom of his fist against the surface of the table. "Did they think just because the maind was currently unstable with no king, they could just run rampant as much as they please!?"

    "Such an unspeakable act!" ude, the young man, sitting on the other end of the table, shook his head in dismay. "You must arrest them all at once!"

    "Arrest them~!" Sunny cheered, raising her short hands like a cheerleader while posing on top of the table. Meanwhile, Sunny''s brother, Law, nodded in agreement.

    "With all this happening on the maind, I''m starting to get worried about my children''s safety." This time, Lilou, Samael''s wife, crossed her arms under her chest. A deep frown was dominating her face. "Just what were the knights doing, allowing such vile people to infiltrate the sacred House of Lords?"

    "What are you clowns saying?!" the knight in charge bellowed, his voice thundering like a p of thunder, making the Grimsbannes бк except Tilly and Rufus бк flinch in surprise. "You were the perpetrators and you are under arrest for the crime of infiltrating the most important chamber of the country!"

    "That is such a big word, Sir Knight!" Samael frowned, pushing himself up that blocked the knight''s view of Abel. "What do you mean, you are arresting us? The innocent citizens of the Maind, and also a member of Parliament without due process or evidence that we illegally intruded this ce?"

    He then slipped his hand inside his long tail coat, fishing out a folded letter. His actions slowed down as the knights raised their weapons, making him raise his other hand as a gesture of surrender while holding the envelope between his index and middle finger.

    "I will toss this in your direction and see if we trespassed or not." Samael waved the envelope before tossing it in the knight''s direction.

    The knight barely caught it, clutching it and crumpling it in the middle. When he held it closer to him, the first thing the knight in charge saw was the seal of the House of Leviticus. Upon opening it, the knight instantly caught important keywords:

    [To the Marquess Grimsbanne,

    This is I, London Leviticus, inviting you to the House of Lords as a member of the Upper Houseбн

    I hope you and your family could attend to the reinstatement of your noble House. The House of Lords would be delighted to wee the distinguished members of such a reputable family.

    Signed by,

    London Leviticus ]

    "Are we still under arrest, Sir Knight?"

    The knight in charge slowly lifted his gaze, only to see Samael step aside, unblocking his view of the knight in charge. As soon as Samael did, all the knight saw was the smirk Abel couldn''t hide, delighted to see the shock in the knight''s eyes upon reading the letter Isaiah forged while London was fast asleepst night.

 Chapter 815 The Devils Of The Mainland

    "Are we still under arrest, Sir Knight?"

    Abel''s eyes shone with mischief, smirking. He watched the knight in charge crumple the piece of paper in his grip, eyes shaking in anger.

    There was must something, thought the knight, but he was trained enough to detect if something was forged. This was "definitely" London''s signature and the real seal of the said man. If this was forged, then the knight could onlymend whoever did it.

    "If that isn''t still enough, how about this document?" Abel raised a document.

    All the knights refocused their attention on the piece of document in Abel''s hand. It was an approval regarding the reinstatement of the House of Grimsbanne, with Abel as Marquess Abel Grimsbanne, the head and n leader of the said House.

    It was approved, signed by the members of the Upper House, and stamped with their seals.

    TAK!

    The knights snapped out of their trance when something fell from the table, watching a small item roll on the carpet.

    "Oops!" Abel picked it up, but as he did, the knight in charge caught a glimpse of what it was.

    The noble seal of the House Evans.

    "You!" the knight''s voice rumbled low. "Just how much more would you make fun of us?"

    "Huh?" Abel cocked his head to the side. "I''m not making fun of you."

    "Do you think a piece of paper will be enough to stop us? We weren''t fools to believe that you got these documents through legal means!"

    "And does legal mean?" this time, ude jumped into the conversation. He was still sitting leisurely on the other end of the table opposite Abel. "You do understand that you will be held ountable for your actions, right? I don''t know much about thews in the Maind for we never cared, but what I am certain of is a lowly vampire such as yourself has no license to make baseless usations."

    "Today is a day our family should celebrate with the reinstatement of our House. However, you are making silly usations with no grounds." Law, Sunny''s older brother, jumped in. He was still sitting on the edge of the table, swinging his feet back and forth. His expression was dark and gloomy, gazing at the knights surrounding the table.

    "Great way to start the life of a nobility," he added with a tinge of ridicule in his tone. "Instead of greeting the Marquess as civil as you can, you''re openly taunting him."

    "That is my grandpa." Sunny frowned, cing her hands on her hips. "Have some shame and respect the Marquess!"

    The knights darted their eyes at the ''children'' of the Grimsbanne. Although ude was already a young man, he was still considered young in the eyes of others. As the knights observed the three, they could feel the growing aura emanating from their backs.<novelnext></novelnext>

    ''They were just children!'' was the first thing that crossed the knight''s head, yet, their hearts couldn''t help but race at the intimidating atmosphere they were creating.

    Thud!

    Suddenly, a loud thud followed by a clumsy ng of metal resonated in the room. The knights instinctively turned their attention to the source of the sound, only to catch one knight kneeling. But the confusion hadn''t filled in their heads when another thud came from the other side.

    Soon, one after another, the knights fell to their knees. Those who were kneeling raised their heads, revealing their nk and paleplexion. As soon as they lifted their gaze, all they saw was either Sunny''s glowing eyes behind the dark shade or Law''s unsmiling face. Some caught ude''s unblinking eyes that revealed his constricting pupils and dted irises.

    Monsters.

    Those knights who remained standing on their feet held their breaths at the sight of the children of the Grimsbanne n. These were just the new generation of the said n yet, they were able to force grown vampires who were ten times their age on top of being well-trained knights to their knees.

    What more if those adults, especially the Originals, pulled an aura on them? Grazing their knees at the weight that forced them on their knees would be the least of their concern.

    "That''s enough, Law, Sunny." After several seconds, Lilou''s soothing yet snub voice broke through the stifling atmosphere. Her eyes slowly slid to the corner, falling on her nephew, ude. "ude, that''s enough. We shouldn''t stoop down to their levelбн right, Marquess?"

    "That''s right. We''re not petty." Abel smiled kindly, rocking his head.

    The stifling and heavy atmosphere gradually subsided as the children calmed down. The invisible yet crippling weight on the knight''s shoulder also lifted, allowing them to heave a sigh of relief. Some of them almost thought their knees would get crushed to the ground if those little demons continued suppressing them with their auras alone.

    Still, the disy of power made a clear point for everyone.

    If the majority of the knights couldn''t even endure the presence of the young Grimsbannes, then forget about arresting them. Pursuing their agenda was akin to knocking on death''s door. However, their pride as knights, if they retreated and allowed the Grimsbanne to get away from their actions, would leave a fatal blow to their pride and egos.

    "What is going on here?!"

    Just as the knights and the person in charge were torn between whether to die doing their duties or do a strategic retreat, a voice from the entrance resounded inside. It was then followed by hurried footsteps.

    Abel''s brows rose as he slowly gazed at the entrance, only to see several members of the royal court and also a part of the Upper House barge in. Some familiar people were in the group, such as Augustine Evans and London Leviticus, having a simr paleplexion whilst catching up to their breaths.

    It was as though they rushed in here as fast as they could, forgetting to breathe.

    "Huh?" Abel cocked his head to the side, but his eyes shone in delight, satisfied at the sight of the lingering panic that was stered on the ministers'' faces. "Aren''t you all in the royal court? Did you hear that my family and I will visit the House of Lords thus, you rushed back to the House of Lords? How sweet!"

 Chapter 816 [Bonus ] Forgotten

    "Huh? Aren''t you all in the royal court? Did you hear that my family and I will visit the House of Lords thus, you rushed back to the House of Lords? How sweet!"

    "Abel Grimsbanne, what is the meaning of this?" Augustine Evans''s voice thundered, still gasping for air as if he ran as fast as he could to return to the House of Lords. "This isn''t your empire! You cannot just barge into the official chambers of the Maind however you please!"

    "Huh?" Abel frowned. "What are you saying? I didn''t barge in here. I was invited."

    He jerked his chin toward the knight in charge. "You see for yourself."

    Augustine Evans and the ministers who came with him furrowed their brows. They set their eyes on the knight in charge, only to see thetter''s dark expression. The sight of the knight was enough to tell the ministers it was badбн and they weren''t wrong.

    When the knight in charge reluctantly handed a crumpled piece of paper to them, all the ministers saw was London Leviticus''s signature. They immediately red daggers at thetter, but London looked just as shocked as them.

    "If that isn''t enough, I have a supplementary document to back it up." Abel didn''t give them time to process the situation, folding the document into a paper crane. "I don''t know why all of you are so surprised when you are the people who asked me to be here."

    He straightened his back, a little upset at their ''reaction.'' "I''m trying my best to conduct myself as a reputable marquess and set an example to these children who looked up to me. Do not make that hard for me."

    With that being said, Abel tossed the paper crane into the ministers'' faces. Fortunately, the knight in charge was quick to catch it in midair.

    "Please." Abel gestured. "Read it and confirm it."

    The knight in charge huffed quietly, passing the paper crane to London. Thetter kept his knitted brows, unfolding the letter to confirm if Abel''s ims were true. London just skimmed through it and, no doubt, the signatures and seals were the ones London was so familiar with. Even the slight distinctions of each signature were included.

    The document in London''s grip slightly shook. He might be Aries''s ally and he had proposed for her to take the crown. However, he had no idea that aside from taking the crown, the Grimsbanne n took advantage of everything to reim their noble status.

    Just what were they all nning?

    "Thisбн is forge!" Augustine''s voice shook, crumping the paper in his hand as he gazed up at Abel. "Just what makes you think a piece of forged papers would let you all get away from all the crimes you hadmitted?!"

    "You and that knight kept branding us as frauds when your signatures stamped with your seals are there. You cannot deny that detail, can you?" Abel frowned, tapping his finger against the table to slow down burning patience. "You only need to usemon sense, Augustine Evans. Why the hell would I bring my family outside the March if I didn''t think the people on the maind were finally ready to make peace with us?"

    "You can deny it all you want, but this paper had its value. I don''t care whether you don''t know how your signatures were on that piece of paper you call or this was stamped, but one thing is for sure, I am a Marquess in thisnd. If you think there was an anomaly that had happened, then we can take it to the royal court with the king''s presence," he continued, ignoring the itch on his palm while telling himself to stay away from violenceбн for now. "Right. The maind still has no king."

    His best to try to look as oblivious as possible melted as his eyes swirled with mockery and ridicule.

    "The ministers''ck of quick thinking and action isn''t my problem. You allowed others to run rampant while the throne was empty, and now I am being framed," he added, smirking. "I suggest we talk about this matter once thisnd weed its new sovereign, hmm?"

    "Youбн!" Augustine''s entire body shook as his face turned red in anger. His nose red, but before he could say or do something, London nted a hand on his shoulder.<novelnext></novelnext>

    London shook his head without saying anything to him, squeezing Augustine''s shoulder as he looked back at Abel.

    "I understand your dismay about this confusion. It is the Lord''s fault for not making quick decisions and allowing people to take advantage while we are all busy with the preparation of weing the new sovereign of thend. We will surely take responsibility for this matter and conduct a thorough investigation to bring light into this matter." London''s expression and tone were firm. "We''ll give you our word that this wouldn''t happen again and punish the person or people behind this."

    "As you should." Abel rocked his head, satisfied that London finally stepped in.

    "For now, I ask you to extend your patience for the unpleasant exchange that had urred here."

    "I might be a simple man, Leviticus, but I''m not pettyбн not that much." Abel raised his hands while everyone around the table slowly rose from their seats. "I am simply d blood won''t spill tonightбн hopefully."

    "So much hassle just to witness such unpleasant events," udemented, jumping from his seat.

    "Come down here, you two." Lilou tipped her head to the side, watching her children jump out of the table. "Let''s go home and try to revive the joy that others tried to spoil."

    "Hand." Lilou nced at her husband before her eyes fell on the open palm before her. "My love."

    "Of course." She sped his hand, waving her fingers, which Sunny took excitedly. Their son, Law, walked a step behind Sunny, throwing his hands behind his head.

    ude was the first to march toward the entrance, hands shoved inside his pockets. His steps slowed down, cocking his head to the side.

    "Excuse us?" he said, making the ministers who were blocking the path grit their teeth. Yet, all they could do was swallow their pride and step aside.

    ude snickered, strutting arrogantly as he walked past them. Following him were Samael and Lilou, holding hand in hand with little Sunny holding Lilou''s other hand. A step behind them was the nonchnt young boy with his hands behind his head. And then, a broad and towering Rufus, who didn''t make a sound all throughout the exchange.

    As they walked past the ministers and knights, their eyes slid to the corner while their expressions sharpened.

    Thest person was Abel, but unlike the rest of his family, he stopped in front of London and Augustine.

    "I''m really d no one had to spill their blood tonight. However, the night is still young and my patience is on itsst straw. Don''t make this hard for all of us." He darted his eyes between London and Augustine and then nced at the rest of the ministers. "I bid you all a peaceful night."

    With that being said, Abel resumed his steps and followed his family. As soon as Abel made a turn, Augustine seethed in anger.

    "That damn бк" but before he could curse, he caught a figure in the corner of his eyes. Augustine slowly turned his head in the person''s direction, only to scrunch his face. "Why the hell are you still doing here?"

    Tilly sat motionless on the chair, watching how all the eyes in the roomnded on her. "Theyбн forgot about me."

 Chapter 817 All Hail The Queen

    If one asked a variety of people what was a king, they would give all sorts of answers they could think of. But regardless of how many words or whatevernguage they spoke, it would alle down to a person who brings unity and identity to a nation; someone who would give a sense of stability and continuity.

    No matter how good the order for safety precautions that wasid out, it was still vulnerable to opportunists like the Grimsbanne n. And no one could do anything about it because the throne was empty, and they simply couldn''t split their attention into many matters anymore.

    Peopleбн who wanted to put the Maind under their thumb had to admit they were a step behind. Not only the Grimsbanne managed to reinstate their House and were granted ess to the nobility, they had also gotten a hold of the throne.

    Aries gazed at the golden throne right before her with a solemn countenance. Her eyes lingered on how exquisite, yet familiar, it was.

    ''This roundбн'' Aries slowly turned on her heel, facing the crown standing in the great hall.

    Everyone from the nobility, starting from the highest social standing to the lowest noble, was gathered in there. They only had one agenda, and that was to witness the rise of the first Queen, who would rule the Maind. On top of that, the Queen wasn''t born in this verynd. Hence the bitter and sour expression of the crowd.

    Aries ignored the res blending in with the look of dismay and disbelief. Instead, she enjoyed it. The side of her red lips curled up into a smirk, slowly sitting on the throne she never thought she would ever own.

    ''... we surely won this round.''

    "All Hail the Queen!"

    As soon as Aries sat down, everyone in the hall бк men and women alike бк slowly went down to their knees. Regardless of their opinions and opposition to bowing to an outsider, they had no option.

    Aries was still legally the former Maximus IV''s wife. It didn''t matter if this marriage was just one among many marriages she had because of thews in thisnd. Therefore, she had all the rights to im the throne since she didn''t have a child with Maximus.

    Her rise to power in the maind wasn''t just something as simple as weing a new ruler, but also, the symbol of change in power. Since the establishment of the maind many years ago, the Hakebourne always had royal power.

    In other words, once the queen took in a king for the purpose of having an heir, the royal family бк the Hakebourne бк would slowly lose their royal title. Unless, of course, the Queen married someone in the royal family, but that was undoubtedly impossible, considering Aries was married to the most wicked man named Abel in most countries, except a few, including the Maind.

    Aries raised a hand to stop their cheers. "All rise," she ordered smoothly, watching all these noble, pure-blooded vampires rise to their feet.

    "I am thrilled to see that everyone came to wee me, the Queen, and also the Sovereign of the Maind." Each of her words was stressed and clear, glossing their eyes on their gloomy faces. "The past weeks had been unpleasant for every one of us; the heavens had shed its tears at the loss of my beloved husband and your king, but fret not."

    "With me now sitting on the throne, I will lead the Maind to greatness my husband had pursued. His will will live in my heart until myst breath." Aries stretched her hand dramatically to her audience. "As your Queen, I asked you to extend your helping hand to make this nation greater than it already was. May we and thisnd reach sess and excellence, peace and prosperity for stability and continuity of ournd."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Silence followed Aries''s first speech as the Sovereign of thend of vampires. No one made a noise, staring at her in disbelief. How could she speak a lie so casually and convincingly?

    p!

    One p echoed in the great hall, snapping everyone from their thoughts. Everyone turned their heads in the p''s direction on instinct, and much to their dismay, their eyesnded on the unweed Grimsbanne n, particrly on Abel.

    Abel pped once again before Lilou followed it. Soon, all the members of the cursed n were pping slowly.

    "I am honored to witness this coronation. Thisnd is blessed to be ruled by a goddess,"mented Abel to his family, rocking his head in satisfaction. "Even the weather and the moon agreed with me."

    "She suits the title," Lilou alsomented while staring at the queen with pride. "Oh, how I wish I was allowed to drop all pretenses and modesty."

    "Please don''t, my love. I don''t want to scoop someone''s eyes if they see that bubbly side of you," Samael returned to his wife, pping. "Let''s not create trouble."

    "If we can keep all the tiaras and throne my grandmama imed, we''ll break a record." Sunny pped giddily, grinning from ear to ear.

    "Apparently, those things won''t fit in the house because it was filled with nothing but marriage certificates." Sunny''s brother, Law, shook his head, pping with a deadpan countenance.

    "I am starting to like this ce." ude rocked his head in satisfaction, pleased at this small win. "I''m looking forward to more interesting stuff that will follow."

    "Let''s hope they were interesting, just as you wished." Samael cast his nephew a nonchnt look. "Though I have a gut feeling, they will be."

    As the members of the Grimsbanne pped continuously, everyone in the hall had no other option but also p. Despite the lively and joyous sound, the atmosphere was still gloomy and dark. Aries didn''t mind; their bitterness was entertaining.

    ? Aries scanned the crowd before her, weing her reluctantly before she set her eyes on the corner. On the corner were a few royalties, the queen''s servants, and Conan. Conan nodded at her quietly, to which Aries returned with a discreet nod.

    No words were exchanged as Aries basked in the glory of this ''milestone.''

    ''We''re just startingбн'' was what crossed her mind as her eyes sharpened and her smile lines faded. ''... and definitely, not ourst win.''

 Chapter 818 Dont Be Shaken

    Meanwhile, in a secret meeting ce sat people around an oval table. A crystal ball was ced in the middle, watching everything unfold in the royal pce from there. Their faces were shaded by their hoods, but the stifling atmosphere said it all.

    They weren''t pleased.

    "Unbelievable!" a voice of a man shook in anger, raising his head enough to show one of his eyes that was glinting menacingly. "Howe this had happened, Giselle?"

    "Not only they sessfully imed the throne, but the Grimsbanne also snuck into the high society legally." Another one spelled out what everyone knew and also the root of their dismay. "Didn''t you say everything was going just as nned, Giselle? From my perspective, things are going exactly the opposite."

    "The Grimsbanneбн we might''ve gotten a hold of Marse Grimsbanne. But even that isn''t enough to reassure this council that she will cooperate."

    "One of our headaches went away when Maximus died, however, it seemed that one headache only multiplied."

    "You promised Samael La Crox and his family will never return to the maind, Giselle! Yet, there they were! pping as they mock us!"

    "Let us not forget about the missing weapon, Maleficent. They said Abel Grimsbanne didn''t take it, but who knows if he simply hid it?"

    All of the council''s concerns came one after another. Their dismay and frustration with a fearful undertone were apparent in their voices. But they weren''t fighting one another, but berating just one person.

    The one who was leading this council.

    The blind woman named Giselle.

    Giselle slowly pulled down her hood. Her eyes were just as white and clouded as ever, and herplexion was whiter than a sheet of paper. But despite the rising tension in the room, she remained calm andposed.

    SLAM!

    "Giselle, do not make us change the person sitting in that chair you''re sitting on," warned another person after mming his hand on the table, and standing up. "We trusted you because you were capable enough to steal the demon Maximus hid in the past. However, right now, I cannot help but wonder if you have the same capabilities you had in the past. After all, we''ve waited for many years and now, our patience is running thin. Just how many more excuses would we hear before you tell us we''re already in a sinking boat?"

    "If your trust in me is waning, then I will vacate my post." Giselle, the blind woman, spoke calmly. She didn''t look at thest person who spoke before her but kept her eyes on the glowing crystal ball in the middle of the table. "I do not mind vacating this seat if someone else in this council is capable enough to take down the Grimsbanne."

    She blinked ever so slowly, moving her clouded eyes over their faces.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Initially, I was appalled at how shaken you were at this slight setback. We already faced setbacks through the years when Maximus IV was alive. Compare to them, this was nothing," she continued, setting her eyes back on the crystal. "This is what the Grimsbanne wants, and you''re ying exactly as what they want."

    Her expression was still solemn, but her tone slightly grew firm. "Though I do not me you for your reaction. The people we''re up against were the Grimsbanne. It is not just Mathilda, Abel was also here. Samael La Crox, Lilou Bloodfang, the holder of Auron ude La Crox, and the Barrets were also strong individuals in their own right."

    "However, we''ve known all along when this council was formed that this would happen. With the goal we seek to attain, the path we''re paving would be painful. The Grimsbanne n had always been on the list of people we''re expecting to fight," she added, reminding them of the bigger picture. "Do not be shaken."

    Giselle paused as she observed the atmosphere in the room with all her senses aside from her sense of sight. When she felt that the tension was subsiding, she heaved a faint sigh of relief.

    "I suggest that everyone calm down. This council isn''t over yet. This was only the beginning of something bigger; arge step towards our goal," she spoke again. "For the goals that unified all of us to work together patiently through the years, remember that it requires sacrifices and countless setbacks. Focus on what was important."

    Those who were aggressive and standing up slowly sat back in their seats, huffing. However, none of them argued with her because Giselle made a solid point. Normally, they wouldn''t react as strongly as how they reacted just now. They were patient people or rather, some of them just learned how to be with how their ns were moving.

    However, they were vampires and time wasn''t their enemy. Time was something they have, and they used it so this council would prevail. Still, they couldn''t deny that the Grimsbanne intimidated them. Talking about the said n or scheming behind them was different than when they were already walking on the samend as them.

    The Grimsbanne n had made their move and they immediately seeded, securing the throne and their settlement.

    "Since we cannot do anything that was already done, what would be our n?" someone in the council broke the silence with his stern voice. "The Grimsbannes and the Queen were one thing, but let us not forget the people working under them. From Conan Hakebourne and that nameless warlock to Samael La Crox''s people and his remaining rtives on the maind, all of them were troublesome people."

    "Leviticus seemed to have chosen a side as well," another one added. "And then the missing бк stolen weapon thete Maximus left. All I can see was a series of dilemmas with few minor solutions. Deposing the Queen was given, and by now, or rather, before she imed it, I''m certain they had their ns to stop that from urring."

    "Give us solutions, Giselle." A woman in the council urged through her gritted teeth. "We are already a step behind, don''t let them widen the gap."

    Giselle listened to their concerns that had a tinge of suppressed desperation. "I said do not fret. Unlike everyone, I never forgot the Grimsbanne''s existence and how they can threaten our goal."

    "That is whyбн" she trailed off, keeping her cloudy eyes on the crystal ball where it was showing Aries on the throne. "... I prepared beforehand."

    The people in the council looked at each other before setting their eyes back on Giselle. Sensing her confidence, there was this slight reassurance that eased their hearts.

    Giselle narrowed her eyes as she whispered, "they wouldn''t see what ising. Especially, Aries Aime Heathcliffe. Her world is about to be shaken."

 Chapter 819 She Had Come This Far... For Sure.

    One monthterбн

    The current matters on the maind were just the tip of the iceberg, and everyone knew that. The throne and the reinstatement of the Grimsbanne n were just small matters. It almost meant nothing, although it gave them a lot of advantages to avoid their enemies from spewing their ridiculous hypocrisy hidden under the twistedws of thend.

    "The roots of all these were nted deeper than I could imagine," Aries whispered, standing before the empty throne that was now hers. She held the tip of her finger with the other, keeping her poise despite being all alone.

    The great hall was empty with only the golden light of the sunset filtering through the ss windows. Her throne was perfectly ced to where the light wouldnd, highlighting the polished seat wrapped with gold and rare jewels.

    She could imagine what she would look like sitting on it from the eyes of the people who were honored to stand in the great hall.

    "Do I look like them?" she wondered, blinking ever so slowly. "Like all the kings who owned their bloody throne?"

    There were a few people Aries could remember at the thought of a throne. One of them was Maximus and Abel. Before being their queen, Aries was their subject.

    Abel might be different in front of her and to his close confidante; he was yful and mischievous with a bit of wickedness. However, every time he would sit on the throne, Abel looked reputable and intimidating. One look and one could tell he was no doubt the emperor of thend; the natural air surrounding him screamed royalty.

    Maximus was a different case, though. But he wasn''t any less, just carried a different charisma that wouldpel anyone to listen. Whenever Maximus would sit on this same throne and even when he sat down on that throne in the Haimirich Empire two years ago, Aries only thought of one thing; he was someone one shouldn''t underestimate.

    Their methods of governing might be different, but she couldn''t say who was far more wicked or good. Good was never in the options, anyway.

    She hade a long way to even have these sorts of thoughts.

    "Never in my lifeбн" she whispered again, caressing the seat she stole and imed as hers. "... would have I imagined owning you."

    Never.

    Considering how small thend of Rikhill was, Aries never thought she was up for ''greater'' things. Though considered great, but not all in a good sense. All she wanted back then was to lead her people with love,passion, and fair justice. But after the Kingdom of Rikhill fell, her fate spiraled.

    From a war trophy to an escaped prisoner, an escapee to being a pet, then climbing up thedder and bing the emperor''s mistress; a mistress to a nobledy, and then cinching the title of the crown princess in another empireбн before she trekked her way to be an empress.

    As far as she could remember, everything was intentional up to the point where she became the crown princess of the Maganti Empire. After that, she was like a leaf being drifted where the wind blow. There was probably a tropical storm because she was blown in this direction бк to a ce she didn''t think existed.

    Aries could vividly remember everything and how she reached this ce, but what was clear to her was that being the Sovereign of thend of vampires was never in her n. She never even wished to be associated with thisnd бк ever.<novelnext></novelnext>

    But because people with evil intentions were following her husband like a shadow; she had no other choice. She loved Abel so much that she was willing to step into theke of fire and dip herself into it. The only constion in going far and beyond was that Abel would do the same for her. He would go even to the pits of hell for her.

    "There is no point in having a trip down memoryne, is there?" she murmured to herself, retrieving her hand from the golden throne. "Not that Aries Heathcliffe was still alive."

    Aries Heathcliffe died a long time ago when thend of Rikhill fell. Therefore, she had no problems living as Danie Circe Vandran, Queen, or whatever name people would call her. Although she had one favorite: Aries Grimsbanne. Sadly, she couldn''t use that right now.

    "Your Majesty."

    Suddenly, Suzanne''s voice rang from the side. She bowed and raised her head to the figure standing in front of the throne.

    "The young Lord of the Rothschild has arrived in the capital and is requesting a private audience," announced Suzanne.

    A month after Aries''s coronation, there were many things that had happened. Although most of them involved the establishment of the new era, as this was the first time a woman would rule the Maind. With that being said, there were problems here and there, but they were issues that only required simple solutions.

    "The young Lord of the Rothschild, huh?" Aries repeated, rocking her head without casting her handmaiden a look. "He said he wille in a month, but it seemed he came a little early."

    "Should I send him away, Your Majesty?"

    "No." Aries slowly peeled her gaze from the throne to the woman standing on thest step of the raised tform from where Aries stood. "Take him to the garden and prepare us the best tea the Queen''s pce can offer. I would like to be surrounded byfort while meeting thisбн infamous young Lord."

    Suzanne lowered her head, hands in front of her abdomen. "As you wished, Your Majesty."

    With that being said, Suzanne excused herself to execute the Queen''s order. Meanwhile, Aries kept her attention on Suzanne''s retreating back.

    There were families and houses that Aries kept a close eye on for the past month. Aside from the Grimsbanne, she monitored the movements of the powerhouses that had great influence in thisnd. She didn''t do this to offer them alliance as she would normally do, but rather, to keep those who could threaten her authority, such as the House of Bathory, the Rothschild, and the Leviticus.

    Aries drew a breath before walking down the five-step up. When she reached thest step, she looked back at the throne.

    ''The Rothschildбн'' she whispered inwardly. ''... had always shown an interest in that stool. I would like to see what they have prepared for me.''

    With that thought in mind, Aries sauntered off to meet the young Lord of the mentioned powerhouse whom she heard lots of things about.

 Chapter 820 The Young Lord Of The Rothschild

    Aries already met the n leader of the House Rothschild. He was a man who had a way with his words. He was logical, and to be truthful, he was tolerable. Much more tolerable to argue with than the aggressive Augustine Evans.

    When Aries was still a queen and not the Sovereign of the maind, she used to sit at the same table as this man. Most days, she would agree to disagree with him. There were times he would surprisingly support her argument.

    Overall, this man presented himself as neutral and someone who was willing to take a step back for the sake of the maind. He carried himself with pride and had always looked smart.

    Among the king''s cab and a member of the House of Lords, the n leader of the Rothschild was the most respected of all. Even the Lords who were considered on the same footing as he would talk to him with utter respect and consideration.

    But that wasn''t the only thing this house was known for. Aside from being role models of the nobility, Aries would asionally hear about the young Lord of the said n.

    ording to rumors, the young Lord of the House Rothschild was charismatic, clever, and skillful. They said that even though the n leader was still alive, he trusted his heir so much that his heir would normally settle even the most important matter for their house.

    He was popr, earning the jealousy of some n leaders for having such an excellent heir and capturing many youngdies'' hearts. All praises were sung along with his name, and it piqued Aries''s curiosity. Sadly, she never got to meet this man because when she stepped foot on the maind, the young Lord of the Rothchild n was out on a mission.

    But now that he was in the capital, requesting a private audience with the Queen, Aries was quite intrigued. Aside from confirming just how excellent this young Lord was, she wanted to know how this young Lord would affect her reign. After all, the Rothschild was never on her side. Only the Grimsbanne was on her side бк even London Leviticus could turn on her once their goals differed.

    Gustav led Aries to the Queen''s garden to spend an afternoon tea with the Young Lord of the Rothchild. From afar, Aries caught a man''s figure in the pavilion she was heading. The man''s back was facing her, but based on his clothing and the air around him, she couldn''t help butmend the screaming nobility with just him standing.

    ''The Rothschild never disappoints, indeed,'' she remarked inwardly, using the words people would often say about the Rothschild.

    Soon, Aries and Gustav reached the pavilion. Standing outside the pavilion, Gustav stepped to the side to make way for her. But just as he opened his mouth, Aries shook her head.

    "Just stay there. No need to announce my arrival," she said, watching Gustav stare at her for a moment before bowing.

    Aries didn''t idle as she resumed her steps, clutching her skirt as she took the step up all alone. Still, she maintained her poise up to thest step. When she straightened her back, her eyes instantlynded on the man''s back.

    She assessed him from head to foot. Aside from his expensive clothing, she noticed his broad shoulder while he held his hand on his back. His clothing might look exquisite, but his fingers didn''t have any essories. His jet-ck hair was brushed back neatly, but all she could see was the shell of his ear and a bit of his sharp jaw.

    At this point, Aries has already grown an immunity to the beauty of vampires. Therefore, even though she was certain this young Lord was dashing, her expression was cold.

    A few seconds after Aries reached the pavilion, the young Lord raised his thick brows as he sensed a person''s presence. Aries quirked a brow, preparing herself to use hisck of ''courtesy'' in weing the Sovereign of thend.

    She watched the man slowly turn around. But as the man''s face slowly came into sight, shock slowly reced the coldness that was initially dominating her face.

    ********

    [ THE GRIMSBANNE MANSION ]<novelnext></novelnext>

    "My beloved uncle!" Samael barged into Abel''s chancery with his voice so loud everyone in the mansion could almost hear him. As soon as he mmed the door open, his eyes searched for Abel, and didn''t even take a second to find him.

    There, sitting behind the desk, was Abel. There were mountains of paper on the desk, but the person who had to work on them was reclining on the seat with his fist on top of the desk. A paper was over Abel''s face, but one could tell he was sleeping instead of working.

    "I know this would happen when you said you will reim the title of your father," Samael grumbled, irritated. He marched in Abel''s direction whileining, "we already have one sloth in the house and it was already too much for everyone. We don''t need another one бк I''m done with the potato diet!"

    Samael unhesitatingly snatched the paper over Abel''s face, only to see thetter had his eyes open. Samael nearly jumped in surprise, assuming Abel was napping because the paperwork overwhelmed him. He heard Conan used to do the paperwork most of the time back in the empire, so Samael assumed Abel was waiting for someone''s help.

    "Samael." Abel blinked. His face was calm, but his eyes were cold and curious while staring at the ceiling. "Don''t you think it was too peaceful recently?"

    "That''s because everyone is busy scheming," said Samael, shaking his head to shrug off the surprise Abel gave him. "Fret not. This peace will notst long бк I guarantee you that."

    Abel kept quiet, keeping his lips in a thin line. "For some reason, my gut feeling tells me something will happen."

    "Because something will definitely happen, my beloved uncle." Samael nearly rolled his eyes, listening to Abel as if thetter didn''t know the situation they were in. "The people in this ce wouldn''t sit still for long, and that''s already known. So while we wait, will you open the treasury so Fabian could prepare real food? I''m so done eating potatoes day and night бк if only I knew this would happen once you be the head of this house, I would''ve reimed it when I had the time and energy."

    Samael ranted on and on, berating Abel for donating a huge amount of their ''families'' wealth бк or, to be precise, Samael''s wealth бк for those poor vampires who needed some help and a portion of it to Aries. Of course, Samael was aware it was for their reputation. However, he didn''t see that after that generous donation their family would make, they would eat potatoes for weeks.

    Meanwhile, Abel let his cute nephew express his dismay while keeping his attention on the ceiling.

    "Giselleбн" Abel murmured to himself, stopping Samael''s rants. "... the thought of that blind woman suddenly gives this unsettling feeling in my blood. I wonder why?"

    People said; to trust your gut feelings. A person''s gut feelings were usually urate and correct. So when one feels something, chances were there was.

    *

    *

    *

    [ Queen''s Garden ]

    "Apologies for myck of alertness, Your Majesty. I was captivated by the beautiful flowers that I didn''t notice your arrival. How rude of me." The young Lord Aries heard so many things about bowed upon facing her with his hand across his chest. When he straightened his back, a gentle smile turned up on his face. "It won''t happen again."

    Aries''s eyes shook, staring at the man''s face before she whispered, "Davien?"

 Chapter 821 For Goodness Sake

    [ FLASHBACK ]

    "Davien, Davien!"

    Aries kept calling her brother while running in the hallway of the royal pce in thend of Rikhill. The servants naturally stepped aside, smiling, as they watched the princess look for the crown prince. She was as enthusiastic and full of ever as ever.

    "Davien!" Aries pushed the door open, barging into the crown prince''s chambers.

    Usually, no one could barge into the crown prince''s chambers. They would get stopped even before they could enter the premises of the crown prince''s pce. However, the marshalls and servants in the crown prince''s pce were so used to the royalties'' close rtionship that they бк Aries, in particr бк could go in and out as they pleased. Davien also approved of this.

    Aries looked around the crown prince''s chancery. It was empty. Her expression turned sour, clicking her tongue in irritation.

    "Just what the hell is he doing?" she grumbled, marching inside and going straight to another door. "He promised to spar with me, but it''s already half an hour from our promised time."

    The more she thought about Davien''s tardiness, the more sour her countenance was. She had been waiting and Aries didn''t have that much patience to wait for more. If Davien was just scared that she would beat him up this time, she would drag him to the training grounds.

    "Davien!" Aries kicked the door open, startling the person inside.

    "Aime!"

    Aries searched the chamber she barged into and quickly found Davien. There, dipped in the tub, was her brother. He wore a look of horror, dipping his body once again when she barged in instead of getting out of the tub to dry himself.

    "So here you are." Aries crossed her arms under her chest, unfazed despite nearly seeing Davien''s entire soul. "I told myself, my brother is probably handling important matters that could help the royal court and ournd to a better future. But s, here he is, showering himself with self-care. Davien, you only need to sprinkle some power and colors on your face and you''d be a crown princess."

    "Aime! Why would barge into the crown prince''s bathroom?! Are you insane?" Davien gasped, covering his chest from his boyish sister. "You''re old enough to be doing this! You''re not even betrothed yet!"

    Aries arched a brow. "So?"

    "What бк" the rest of Davien''s words rolled back in his throat, speechless by herck of interest. This was one of the reasons the king and Davien were worrying about Aries. Although the king never forced his children into an arranged marriage, they still wished Aries to have a family of her own.

    However, as years go by, Aries was bing more and more mischievous. They were afraid that with her personality, she wouldn''t fancy any man. She was manlier than other noblemen, after all, and quite intimidating to some.

    "Uhбн" Davien pinched the bridge of his nose in distress. "I''m sorry, alright? I will change clothes and follow you to the training grounds."

    Davien lifted his gaze to her once again, only to see her unchanging expression. "I promise!"

    "Alright." She nodded but didn''t move an inch.

    "Aime, don''t tell me you will watch your brother change clothes?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Is there something wrong with that?"

    "There is a limit to ignorance, my dearest sister."

    "Davien, are you shy?"

    "No?"

    "Then, why does my presence bother you?" she cocked her head to the side. "I heard you and some of your friends had a good timest night. Who would have thought that my brother would indulge himself in the brothel?"

    "What?"

    "You even dragged Curtis with you." Her gaze turned icy as she continued. "Yetбн you didn''t even take me."

    "..."

    Davien looked at his sister with nk eyes. Was she angry because he didn''t take her to the brothel? Did she even know what they did there?

    "Did you think I won''t get a wind of it? Do not get me wrong, Davien. I finddies beautiful like flowers that I could look at for hours, but I am not a bug to get attracted to them. However, I''m always curious about what sort of life thedies in the brothel have. After all, those sorts of establishments just wouldn''t end," Aries continued in the same cold tone. "How could you raid the brothel without me?"

    "Aime, for goodness''s sakeбн" Davien rolled his eyes, but Aries didn''t stop.

    "What?" Her cold temperament soon affected the atmosphere. "Did you keep it a secret from me because you think I''d mess up your ns? Don''t you still trust me? I can protect myself and I can do a better job than anybody else."

    "Aime." Davien breathed out heavily, grinding his teeth. "Can we talk about thister? The water is getting cold and I do not want to catch a cold."

    "No." Aries shook her head. "You stay there and listen. Do you think I barge in here just because I want to peep? I came in here, knowing you are bathing and you will not go anywhere else while naked."

    Davien''s eyes slowly filled with horror. He figured that was her n all along when she first mentioned the raidst night. Seeing the horror that soon dominated his face, the corner of her lips curled up into a wicked smirk.

    "Youбн are evil," whispered Davien in disbelief, knowing her sister wouldn''t stop interrogating him while he had to stay inside the bathtub.

    Davien and Aries didn''t have the sweetest rtionship. To be fair, it was more like a love-and-hate rtionship. There were times such as this when she would go through extreme means just to make him listen to her sentiments. Some days, Davien would hang her upside down just to discipline his mischievous sister.

    Despite the endless pranks and irritating shenanigans, they would pull on each other, Aries and Davien had a bond that even death couldn''t break. Even when his head rolled over to her feet that day in the middle of the war, her love and respect for Davien never changed.

    Even if Aries Heathcliffe was dead for her, her family and friends, and people would always live in her heart. They were just in this space in her heart, where no one else could touch them ever again. But s, Aries didn''t think there was a time someone would unlock the treasure chest in her heart that brought back everything she hid for many years.

 Chapter 822 The Revival Of Trauma

    [ PRESENT TIME ]

    "Davien?"

    Aries''s eyes shook as she stared at the man standing before her. His hair and eye color were different, but she wouldn''t mistake this face. This face who never shamed in expressing his emotions; someone she had seen wore a different kind of emotions.

    Aries took a step back, but her body froze. Her body stopped her, as if saving her while her mind wasn''t thinking straight.

    "Davien?" the young Lord of the Rothschild furrowed his brows. "Your Majesty, it is I, Miguel Rothschild. I am honored to be in your presence."

    The young Lord of the Rothschild n, Miguel Rothschild, ced his hand across his chest. He bowed once again, this time as a gesture for his introduction. He kept his head down while Aries stared at him nkly.

    ''Even his voice sounds the same,'' she whispered in her head, staring at his back while he was bowing.

    She could feel her heart racing, making her catch her breath. Her eyes were still shaking as her face crumpled in confusion, lips quivering.

    "Your Majesty."

    Gustav''s call put a stop to the confusion swelling in Aries''s chest. She turned her head in his direction, only to see Gustav wearing a firm expression. He already entered the pavilion, standing by the entrance, shaking his head. He didn''t know what was wrong with Aries, but he had served her for quite some time now to know that Aries was facing a dilemma and needed guidance to keep her on track.

    Aries bit her lower lip, holding Gustav''s gaze while mentally calming herself down.

    ''This verynd I am standing on is the Maind.'' Her inner voice shook, peeling her eyes away from Gustav and to the young Lord Miguel. As soon as she faced him, thetter straightened his back. ''Iбн shouldn''t let them shake me.''

    Aries gulped a mouthful of saliva, trying to stop her body from trembling.

    Her lips quivered as they parted, but she managed to force her words out of her throat.

    "I am pleased to meet you, Young Lord," she greeted, motioning her hand to the chairs and table. "Why don''t we take a seat? I would love to get to know the young Lord of the Rothschild I heard so much about."

    Miguel smiled warmly, chuckling with his lips closed. "I am honored."

    With that being said, Aries and Miguel approached the tables and chairs. But as they drew closer, thetter jogged slightly to drag the seat for the Queen.

    "I see that your head chambein had left the pavilion and there was no servant to serve the queen," he remarked with an amicable smile. "I hope I am not overstepping my bounds."

    Aries stared at the smile before her, before she gulped. "I''ll let this slip today, though I hope you wouldn''t be so presumptuous the next time."

    Aries avoided his gaze as she approached the chair, allowing him to assist her to sit down. Miguel then walked around the table, taking the seat across from her. As they sat across from each other, Aries couldn''t help but observe him in silence.

    "I am d that despite your hectic schedule to lead the Maind to greatness, you granted my request to see you, Your Majesty." Miguel broke the silence, going through the formalities.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    As he talked, his voice sounded more and more distant until Aries could only hear silence. Her eyes, however, never left him. Even how he talked, how his lips moved, how his eyes twinkled in sincerity reminded her of Davien.

    This was Davien.

    Aries was aware that a stranger could look like someone. However, this wasn''t just a slight resemnce. This was exactly her brother''s face, voice, mannerisms, and gentle personality. This was him, no doubt.

    Her hands on herp slowly balled into a tight fists the more she stared at Miguel. Seeing her brother again, alive and well, made her remember a memory she tried to bury in her heart.

    A memory where all she could hear was the screams of her people, smelling the thick smoke, gunpowder, and blood of her people. And then a head rolling until it hit her bloody and muddy boots, staring at it while feeling how her heart sink.

    Unforgivable.

    After painstakingly trying to heal the wounds in her heart just to move on from that painful and traumatic incident, her current enemies shamelessly used her past and weakness just to hurt her. Bringing back her trauma was something Aries had already expected. However, she didn''t expect they would go this far.

    Aries had no idea if this was some sort of illusion or if it had been a part of a deliberate n. After all, they nted Maleficent''s core in her without her knowledge. Who knew what else they did in the past for safety measures?

    "As I was saying, the matters in the borders that thete King tasked our family бк"

    "I heard you are an excellent master swordsman." Aries cut him off with a topic that didn''t have anything to do with what Miguel was talking about. "Would you like to be my sparring partner?"

    "Pardon?"

    "As a queen of the maind, I acknowledge that there were still areas that I amcking. I lost my beloved husband too soon. Rising to the throne wasn''t in my ns just yet," she exined, holding her hand tightly to maintain a calm mien. "However, I am always willing to fill in where Ick. I am the queen and I have to learn to protect myself from danger. Therefore, I am asking if you would like to be my sparring partner."

    Miguel stared at her with a little bit of surprise before he smiled, bowing. "It will be my honor, Your Majesty."

    Aries kept a cold countenance as she gazed at him. She indulged with him for a while before Miguel bid his farewell to her, telling her he would visit her again once he settled his estate in the capital.

    Aries sat on the same seat even when Miguel left. She stared at the spot where Miguel sat previously, bearing a nk expression.

    "Your Majesty." After minutes of waiting for Aries, Gustav decided to approach her. "Is there something wrong?"

    She kept quiet for a minute before she shook her head.

    "No," came out a whisper, pushing herself up, only to realize her knees were still shaking. Thanks to Gustav''s quick reflexes, he leaped to her and held her shoulders to stop her from falling.

    "Your Majesty," he called worriedly, only to see Aries'' paleplexion when she gazed up at him. "I think you need some rest бк Your Majesty!"

    Panic swelled in Gustav''s chest when Aries suddenly fainted, catching her body in his arms.

 Chapter 823 Nothing Changed

    "Congrattions."

    Aries flinched as soon as her brother''s voice caressed her ears, looking back to see Davien approaching her. Aries was idling in the pavilion in the middle of theke within the Royal Pce of Rikhill.

    "I was looking for you all night," he said, stopping beside her with a smile on his face. "How can you sneak out of your own banquet like that?"

    Aries chuckled with her lips closed, shaking her head. His eyes fell on the decanter in her hand.

    "With an entire bottle of wine at that," he humored. "My sister, I''m worried. You don''t hold your liquor well."

    "Can you please stop sassing around?" she rolled her eyes yfully, setting them back on the white lotus floating on the stillke. "I snuck out because it was so loud. And also, because my brother, whose crown I stole, was the happiest of all."

    "Are you expecting me to lock myself in the corner and cry myself to sleep?"

    "You lost your title of the crown prince. You should be miserable."

    "I cannot believe I am hearing this." Davien gasped while Ariesughed. "You should head back in. You drank over your limit."

    "Today, I won and became the crown princess. I can drink as much as I want." Aries hugged the decanter yfully, looking at him with a mild re.

    "Wellбн" Davien raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. "You''re the crown princess now. So, what else can I say? I''m just your older brother now, so I can''t order you around."

    Aries frowned while assessing his yful countenance. A deep exhale slipped past her nostrils, looking away from him to the beautiful white lotus on theke.

    "Are you really alright with this, Davien?" she asked after a moment of silence, hearing him hum a questioning note as a reply. "That you''re not the crown prince anymore; that I won against you."

    She returned her gaze to him, watching him look back at her. "I thought you''d be sad for a bit, yet, you seemed much more energetic in the banquet."

    Davien didn''t answer immediately but stared at her. His soft expression warmed up even more when his subtle smile stretched slightly.

    "Of course, I am a little disappointed at the result. Even though you were my opponent, losing is not a pleasant feeling," he admitted honestly. "However, that isn''t enough reason to wallow in my chambers and cry myself to sleep. After all, I might''ve lost, but my sister had something to celebrate and be proud of. I want to be there for you and celebrate it together with her."

    Aries kept silent, unable to say anything at his remarks. This was the brother she challenged; the person she had been shing with since dering her right to the throne. Davien was raised all his life to be a ruler, but she challenged it and stole it from him.

    She would understand if he was angry with her. However, Davien didn''t change even after she dered her desire for the throne. Instead, Davien saw it as an opportunity. Still, she felt slightly guilty, but this guilt wasn''t enough to force her to give up her ambition.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "You proved yourself and earned everything, Aime." Davien raised a hand, nting it on top of her head. "More than the slight bitterness in my heart, I am genuinely proud of you. I am certain Father and everyone feels the same way. Ournd of Rikhill is entering a new era, and we''re all hoping this change would make our belovednd even more proud."

    "What if I make a mistake?" she blurted out quietly.

    Davien cocked his head to the side. "Are you just thinking of that now?"

    "I can''t help it." Aries brushed his hand away from her head, looking away. "Dering my right and challenging the crown prince was the easiest part. Winning wasn''t easy, but at least, it never made me nervous."

    "Haha. My little sister is cute." He chuckled before propping his arms against the railing of the pavilion, leaning forward slightly. "Having jitters only meant you care for the path you will take, and it''s reassuring to care enough to fear mistakes. However, don''t be afraid, Aime."

    "No one is perfect in this world бк nothing is." He looked back at her, smiling confidently. "Mistakes are inevitable and we cannot stop them. We can only learn from them. Isn''t that the reason people say two heads are better than one? That''s why there''s a royal court and division of power, because the king can''t run a country all on his own. Heбн or she needs people to support her."

    "Will you support me, then?"

    "Obviously." Davienughed as if her question was more like a joke. "I lost the title of the crown prince, but my heart still screams for duty. Nothing changed."

    Davien pushed himself away from the railing, reaching for the decanter in her arms. His action caused deep lines to appear in between her brows, but she allowed him to take the decanter from her embrace to the floor.

    "What are you doing?" she asked, watching him straighten his back.

    He had this warm and bright smile stered on his face, eyes swirling with pride and affection. He took a deep breath before going down to his knee, hand across his chest.

    "While we''re at it, I thought this would be the perfect chance to do this." Davien cleared his throat as his expression slowly turned solemn. "I, Leo Davien Heathcliffe, congratte you on your victory. As your subject and a prince of the proudnd of Rikhill, I pledge my loyalty, support, and my life to you, my Royal Highness. I will fight for you and protect you from harm until I cannot fight anymore."

    Aries was rendered speechless, watching her brother take her hand andnd a kiss on her knuckle as a gesture for a knight''s oath. When he lifted his head, a weing and encouraging smile dominated his face.

    "I believe in you, Your Royal Highness." He nodded mildly while holding her gaze. "Do not be afraid."

    The worries and fear that were clouding her mind slowly disappeared, reced by calmness. The side of her lips curled up, nodding back at him without saying anything.

    How reassuring.

 Chapter 824 Not This Again

    Davien never failed to reassure Aries growing up. The two might banter now and then, pulling pranks on each other, and giving each other headaches. But in times of crisis or need, they were each other''s strongest support.

    Davien kept his promise to the day he died. He fought for her bravely. Even before he died, Davien marched on the battlefield in front without looking back. He drew his sword, shouting her name and thend of Rikhill without a second hesitation.

    Aries slowly reopened her eyes, only to see the ceiling of the queen''s bed with the curtains tied meticulously and loosely on the bed''s post.

    "I heard you fainted after meeting the young Lord of the Rothschild." A soothing and deep voice caressed her ears, making her move her eyes to the side of the bed. "Are you alright now, darling?"

    As soon as Aries turned her head, her eyesnded on Abel. He was sitting on the armchair beside the bed, watching him lean forward and switch to the edge of the mattress.

    "How did youe here?" she asked, only to realize how stupid her question was. "Did I worry you?"

    "My wife fainted, so obviously, I''m not," he answered sarcastically, making her press her lips into a thin line. "Apologies. It''s just that I do not know what to do whenever an emergency concerns you."

    Abel''s tone softened, wiping the tear that rolled down her temple before she regained consciousness. "You were crying, and I feel like my heart is breaking in half." бк literally.

    Being connected to her, Abel could feel her heart. If this pain hurt someone like him, he couldn''t imagine how devastatingly painful her heart was going through right now.

    After hearing his remarks, Aries recalled the link the two of them had. She was breathing and living because of Abel, and obviously, they had this connection that only death could break. Abel would feel all of her emotions if they were strong enough to break the barrier he put to give her and her emotions some privacy.

    Aries propped her elbows against the soft mattress, pushing herself to sit up. When she was sitting up, she faced Abel squarely.

    "Gustav told me he didn''t notice anything out of the ordinary during your meeting with the young Lord," he said, brushing her jaw with the back of his fingers briefly. "What''s wrong, darling?"

    Where should she start? She asked herself, unable to speak to him for a moment. All she could do was stare at Abel and watched the growing worry in his naturally sharp eyes.

    "What did the young Lord say that shook you to this state?" he inquired once again, making mild guesses.

    When her mouth parted to tell him everything, her lips quivered, and her tongue rolled back. Her heart clenched painfully and before she knew it, tears streamed down her cheek.

    How was she supposed to tell him that Davien, her brother, looked exactly like Miguel Rothschild? How was she supposed to tell Abel that the past she already faced once and settled rose from the dead, grabbing her ankles and stilling her on the ground, ready to pull her to the pits of hell she crawled up from?

    "I бк" her breath hitched, unable to force her voice out.

    "Shhбн it''s alright, darling." Abel held her biceps, pulling her into the safety of his embrace. "Don''t say it if you can''t, darling. It''s fine. Do not force yourself."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Her face crumpled, burying her face in his shoulder. Her hand on his back gripped his clothes tightly until her hand turned white. Aries couldn''t believe that after all these years, she would be plunged into this type of pain again.

    Not this again.

    She already did everything she could toe to terms with her past, but here it was, appearing right in front of her. This time, it wasn''t just a reminder, but as if her brother rose from the dead. The problem was, Aries knew Miguel wasn''t her brother and this might be a part of a delicate scheme.

    However, that was what made things worse. With the brewing tension behind the peaceful front of the Maind, deaths were inevitable. Just the sheer thought of Davien''s look-alike dying because of her was enough to paralyze her into doing nothing.

    Abel stroke her back soothingly, gazing at her as she sobbed quietly. A deep sigh slipped past his nostrils, resting the side of his head against hers. It had been a while since he saw her bawling her eyes out without making a sound, and by this, he knew the gravity of the reason was heavy.

    But Abel didn''t say anything. He kept quiet, keeping his mind from guessing the reason or going straight to the solution. Right now, all he needed to do was lend his shoulders while she cry.

    *****

    Meanwhile, in the Rothschild estate situated in the heart of the Maind Capital, servants lined up in front of the main manor as a carriage stopped in front. When a man hitched outside the carriage, an old butler approached the young Lord, who would stay in the capital indefinitely.

    "Wee back, my lord," weed the butler, nting his hand across his chest while bowing. "How was your trip from the royal pce?"

    The butler uncurled his back, facing the charming young Lord of the n. Miguel smiled with his lips closed, making him appear more charming and dashing.

    "It was more weing than I expected," said Miguel to the butler, grinning. "The Queen isn''t as terrible as the rumors say. In fact, I think she''s clever and reliable. It put a lot of ease in my heart that the Maind is in good hands."

    The butler smiled, seeing that the young Lord seemed pleased by his quick trip to the royal pce.

    "I am d you were satisfied with the Queen," said the butler. "A guest is waiting for your lordship inside."

    "Oh?" Miguel raised his brows, ncing at the estate behind the line of servants. The side of his lips curled up until his eyes were squinting, hiding the mischief in his eyes.

    "My lord." Seeing the smile stered on the young Lord''s face, the butler frowned. But before the butler could remind Miguel of the important specifics, thetter squeezed the butler''s shoulder.

    "Tell Giselle I''ll be thereбн soon," was all he said before walking back to the carriage. He opened the window and smiled from ear to ear. "I forgot I still have arrangements for today. I mighte back in a few days бк please tell that her. See you!"

 Chapter 825 Do Not Underestimate Me

    [ Royal Pce: The Queen''s Pce ]

    "Are you alright now?" Abel wiped the lingering tears from the corner of her eyes with his thumb. "The Maind isn''t healthy for you бк I knew it. You''ve been crying more than before."

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line while its corners curled up. "About thatбн" she trailed off when Abel shook his head.

    "Do not push yourself, darling." Abel kept his hand on her cheek. "If you aren''t ready to tell me, then don''t. I''d rather wait."

    "Are you thinking I will lie about it?"

    "No, of course not. It is just that I might seek trouble." Abel let out a deep exhale, retrieving his hand from her cheek. "However, if you do need an ear, I can lend you mine. It was just that I was not good at keeping quiet. I always look for a solution and there''s no greater solution than taking out the roots."

    He paused, looking her straight in the eye. "Are you ready to tell me what''s wrong?"

    To be honest? She thought.

    "No," came out a whisper.

    "Don''t you need to get something off your chest?"

    "I already did." Aries reached for his hand and squeezed it. "I cried, didn''t I? Allowing me to cry and giving me a space where I could bawl my eyes out is already enough to get things out of my chest. However, I wouldn''t deny that it barely rid the weight that is still weighing my heart down."

    She bit her inner lower lip, gripping his hand tighter. "I have an idea of what happened or why things are happening. I simplyбн want to confirm it."

    "Do you need my help?"

    "No." She shook her head mildly. "You helped me enough."

    "My helping hand extends far longer than you anticipate."

    "I know, but this is something I realized to face on my own. After all, we already did everything. However, my past simply keeps finding its way back to me." Her eyes shone with determination and firmness. "Our n continues бк yours, too. Do not dy it just because I was having a slight personal dilemma."

    "Everything personal to you is personal to me," he reminded, stressing it. "Just a reminder lest you need to hear it."

    Aries smiled, nodding in understanding. "I know, but the reminder is very much appreciated."

    "Very well." Abel drew a deep breath and lifted his brows. "Should I stay longer?"

    "Don''t you want to?"

    "You don''t have to ask, though I would be d to be invited."

    Aries chuckled before she slowly leaned forward, resting her front against him. "Can you stay tonight?"

    "Wouldn''t that bring you trouble, Your Majesty?"

    "I was tantly having an affair during my marriage with thete king," she humored. "No one would be surprised if they knew I was keeping a new lover after I had enough with the previous one."

    "Listening to you having a lover during my absence makes me want to hurt Fabian."

    "Fabian did his best to keep me alive." She moved her head to find afortable spot on his shoulder. "If not for him, I don''t think I would''vested for two years."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Wellбн that makes me want to hurt him less."

    Aries let out another chortle, snaking her arms around his body. "You talk a lot these days, Abel."

    "Hmm?" Abel peeked down at her, blinking almost innocently.

    "If this was before, I don''t think we would''ve reached this part of the conversation with any fabrics on." Aries drew her head back a bit, looking at him yfully. "Have you grown tired of me?"

    "Huhбн" A dryugh escaped his mouth before biting his lower lip while still smiling. "I was patient since you just cried."

    "Didn''t you like it when I cry?"

    "I do whenever I''m inside." Abel grinned from ear to ear, holding either side of her hips. Aries chuckled at the ticklish sensation before her backnded on the soft mattress. "Conan will be mad and furious if he realized that I was gone."

    "He doesn''t know you left?"

    "I left in a hurry. Though I told Mathilda I was leaving, I''m not sure if she was listening."

    Aries bit her lower lips, watching him lower his body until his chest was on top of her body. He tilted his head to the side, brushing the tip of his nose against hers, and then pressing his lips against hers.

    They both knew making love at this time wasn''t the best idea, nor was it a good time. However, at this point, there was nothing that could make her forget other than a round of passion.

    Her eyes shone in deep red as her fangs slowly grew, staring at Abel''s face hovering over hers. He licked his lips as he pressed his thumb against her fangs, letting droplets of blood drip straight into her mouth. And with blood involved, the two of them indulged in a heated round of passion until the pain in their hearts was slowly reced with the desire to be one.

    ******

    Daysterбн

    "Hah!" Aries swung the wooden sword with a huff before she paused. The wooden sword of her opponent flew away, only to sink into the ground a few steps away from her.

    She raised her wooden sword, pointing it in front of Miguel.

    "Are you mocking me?" she hissed. "How dare you go easy on me? I asked you to mentor me, not inte my ego."

    Miguel smiled, holding his hands up. His eyes were fixed on the queen''s intimidating and unsmiling countenance. It was the first time he would teach the queen, but the second she stepped foot in the training ground, she didn''t waste time and attacked him continuously.

    It was quite intense; something he didn''t expect and very different from her demeanor the first time they met. It caught him off guard. If they were holding real swords, he was certain he could''ve inflicted injuries.

    "Believe me or not, Your Majesty, I am not going easy on you," he admitted, smiling helplessly. "However, I won''t deny that I nned to since I didn''t know what level of swordsmanship Your Majesty has. I was slow. Apologies."

    Aries didn''t answer immediately before she put down her wooden sword. "It seemed you have been underestimating me."

    "I don''t бк"

    "Pick it up, Lord Miguel." She cut him off before he could even make excuses, keeping her gaze on him. "Stop making excuses and do what you were told to do."

    "Uh, yes." His smile lines faded slightly, turning on his heel to pick up the wooden sword. However, just as he took five steps, he felt this strong aura behind him, as if death itself came to stab him in the back.

    All he heard next was Aries''s voice rumbling down her chest, "I said... do not underestimate me."

 Chapter 826 Perhaps, I Am The Only One.

    Aries didn''t detail everything to Abel about her current dilemma. However, she did give him hints. Abel was smart enough to put two and two together. He would figure it out on his own бк it wouldn''t be an exaggeration if he already did.

    Abel only asked Aries one thing, and that was to get things done. For her to uncover the truth and make amends for this personal dilemma. There wasn''t any good thing in this situation, but if there was, it was that she expected such underhanded means from her enemies to shake her.

    Thus, she came face to face with Miguel to prove to herself that Miguel Rothchild simply stole her brother''s face. That Miguel and Davien were two different people; the former''s face was simply an illusion or some sort to deceive her.

    After all, Aries was the only person who knew what Davien looked like.

    Her eyes shone with murderous intent the second Miguel turned his back on his enemy. Didn''t they say this man was one of the strongest noblemen in the Maind? If he wasn''t underestimating her, he wouldn''t dare turn his back on her while still on the training grounds.

    Anger and disgust swelled in her chest, taking arge leap to attack him on the back.

    "Do notбн underestimate me!" Aries''s voice rumbled down her chest, eyes gleaming with murderous intent.

    Miguel paused when he felt the murderous intent behind him. However, the corner of his lips curled up in excitement. He ducked on instinct to dodge her attack, pushing Aries''s wrist with the bottom of his fist to take make her lose her grip. However, Aries used her other hand to nt it on top of his head for a second, pushing herself to reposition midair andunch a kick.

    The two of them exchanged blows without a pause.

    This wasn''t the training Miguel expected, for sure. When he epted her offer, he assumed the level ofbat skills she had were probably above the basics. He heard she was a witch, after all. Witches didn''t needbat skills бк only above level or meditation бк since training their mana and body to create spells required more of their attention.

    Even if Aries was turned into a vampire, just as he heard, there was still a difference. Vampires could just use brute force, but it would be nothing against them.

    Therefore, the training Miguel expected turned into something more exciting as sparring. Although he had to admit. Aries would stand no chance against him in a real battle.

    "Ugh!" Aries clenched her teeth, feeling her lungs constrict at the force on her abdomen.

    "Apologies, Your Majesty," was all she heard from her opponent with his palm on her stomach. "I didn''t mean to hurt you, but I''m afraid you''d kill me if I go easy on you."

    As soon as those words rolled out of his tongue, Miguel pushed her abdomen and sent her flying. Aries rolled on the ground until she was out of the ring.

    Miguel straightened his back, stretching his neck from one side to the other. He had been exchanging blows with her for a straight hour, and he had to admit that was tiring. He didn''t have a moment to breathe.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Meanwhile, Aries grunted as she pushed herself from the ground with great difficulty. When she raised her head, the first thing she saw was Miguel searching his shoulders in a circr motion before setting his eyes on her.

    He smiled, marching in her direction.

    "I''m sorry, Your Majesty," he expressed when he was two steps from her, offering his hand to her. "I was wrong to underestimate you. But now that I know the level ofbat skills Your Majesty has, I will make sure to reflect on my actions until now."

    Aries assessed his smile before her gaze fell on his hand. But instead of taking it, she ignored it and helped herself.

    Miguel clenched his hand and smiled with closed lips, raising his brows briefly. He shrugged and slowly rose to his feet, watching her lest she lose her bnce and fall.

    "It was good," she remarked, tossing the wooden sword to him, which he caught on instinct. "Come back in three days."

    With that being said, Aries didn''t idle and turned on her heel. She didn''t n to stay longer since the training was already over. She lost miserably, and she knew that. Now, she needed a moment to rest to think about it since her mind was just filled with anger and disgust after staring at that face for over an hour.

    "I''ll see you in three days then," said Miguel, staring at her retreating back. His brows rose when Aries suddenly stopped, watching her twist her upper body as she looked back at him.

    "I will appreciate it if you stop speaking casually to me. I am not your friend or your subordinate. Do not make me repeat myself. I think I have let many things slip since the moment we met until now," she warned coldly, staring at him as if he were too inferior to be even looked at. "I don''t think I will be so kind next time you apologize with an excuse of not knowing the queen because you were away."

    Her eyes sharpened, looking at him from head to toe. A scoff slipped past her lips as if to mock him before resuming her steps and sauntering away.

    "How coldбн" hemented under his breath when she was already at a great distance. "I thought she would at least offer me some tea and snacks after sparring with her. After all, I thought we made a connection that could be the start of friendship while exchanging blows. But perhaps I am the only one."

    Miguel nted his hand on him while still holding onto the wooden sword with the other. He shook his head once again, staring at where Aries disappeared to. After a few seconds, Miguel arched a brow as he gazed down at the wooden sword.

    As soon as his eyes fell on the wooden sword, cracks started to appear on the surface before it disintegrated into powder.

    "Hahбн" he muttered, staring at the residue on his palm. "... good thing this is not a sword. I would''ve diedбн for sure."

 Chapter 827 I Quit

    Days had passed by in a blur. Aries continuously attended her sparring matches with Miguel, and just like the first time, her interactions with him didn''t involve long conversations. It was mostly the two of them fighting; she never gave him the chance to talk.

    TAK!

    Aries stood several feet from her opponent, Miguel. She gazed down when she heard a faint noise as if something was cracking. The moment her eyes fell on the wooden sword in her hand, she caught the cracks crawling their way to her hand.

    It only took seconds before the wooden sword broke into multiple pieces. How fragile.

    "Your Majesty, we already spar six times in the course of a month and you broke your sword six times," Miguel pointed out, watching the pieces of wood fall to the ground. When he lifted his eyes to Aries, she was still staring at her hand.

    A shallow breath escaped his nostrils. "Weapons are the extension of our hands. You don''t break your hands because if you do, you''ll be at the disadvantage. It is like sabotaging yourself."

    Aries slowly set her eyes back on him. They sparred five times in the span of a month, but this was probably the first time they paused in the middle of the fight. They never talked in between and when it was over because Aries lost, she would just leave after giving him the day of their next session.

    "Strength alone cannot take you far," he continued. "I''m certain Your Majesty is already aware of what I am saying. Although I cannot understand the seemingly bottomless anger you are carrying every time you step into the training grounds, you have to separate all the other emotions into a battle."

    Miguel tapped his temple mildly. "You fight using your head," before he pointed at his chest. "Not with this. Emotionsбн are double edge swords. They can be either strength or something that will hold you back. That is why while you aren''t sure what sort of influence your emotions were, fight using your head."

    Aries stayed silent with her eyes fixed on Miguel.

    "You really sound like him," she mumbled to herself, making Miguel raise his brows.

    "Pardon, Your Majesty?"

    Aries ignored him, assessing him from head to toe. Even though she didn''t speak with him for the month they sparred, Aries learned many things. For instance, no matter which angle she looked, Miguel looked exactly like Davien.

    Not just the face or the voice, but their height and physique were the same. To put it simply, Miguel''s physical appearance was exactly just like Davien''s.

    ''Even what he just said sounds just like what Davien would say,'' she continued her thoughts in her head before mentally shaking her head. ''Don''t be fooled, Aries. He isn''t Davien and Davien was a jerkбн''

    "Dani."

    Aries''s train of thought trailed off when Dexter''s voice caressed her ears. She slowly turned her head, only to see Dexter approaching. It didn''t take long when Dexter stood a step from her side, but before he could speak, they heard Miguel''s voice.

    "Dani?" Miguel furrowed his brows, watching the two look back at him.

    "Good to see you, Lord Miguel," greeted Dexter politely with a slight bow before facing Aries. "I was looking for you, and Gustav told me you''re on the training grounds."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Why are you looking for me?"

    Dexter cocked his head to the side, confused. "You called for me. Did you forget?"

    "Oh."

    "Are you alright? You don''t normally forget such arrangements." Dexter assessed his sister''s face and then pinched her cheek out of habit. "Is there something wrong?"

    His action brought a slight smile to her face before clicking her tongue. "We''re in front of my instructor. Do not embarrass me just because I am your sister."

    "Sorry. Habit." Dexter chuckled warmly as he retrieved his hand. "Are you done with your training?"

    "Yes." Aries nodded, setting her eyes back on Miguel. "That''s all for today, Lord Miguel. Come back in five days."

    Miguel blinked while Aries face Dexter again. Unlike her cold treatment towards him, she looked warm and loving in front of Dexter.

    "Shall we?" Dexter offered his arm, smiling.

    Aries smiled back while nodding, hooking her arm around Dexter''s. It had been a while since she had time with her brother alone. Both of them had been busy since Aries was the queen, and Dexter was one of her official cabs.

    Dexter didn''t have any official title in the Maind. Unlike Abel and the Grimsbanne, Conan, and Isaiah, Dexter and Aries were the real outsiders. They had no real connection to the maind and were simply dragged into this ce because they were connected to Abel. Thus, Aries secured a spot for her brother to keep her close.

    "I don''t think I cane in our next session, Your Majesty."

    As Aries and Dexter were leaving the training ground, they stopped upon hearing Miguel''s remarks. The two of them looked back, only to see Miguel still standing on his spot.

    "Matter of fact, I don''t think I can attend any training sessions anymore." A smile slowly turned up on Miguel''s face, eyes fixed on Aries. "If you ask me the reason, it is that I do not think I deserved to be used and be disposed of like a whore once you relieved yourself."

    "What?" Aries furrowed her brows. Did she just hear him correctly? Meanwhile, Dexter frowned.

    "Your Majesty, I had been training you for the past month. Yet, you never offered me any refreshments or anything. As your sparring partner, I am hurt," expressed Miguel. "I thought Your Majesty simply had an aloof personality, but now I see that that isn''t the case. You simply dislike me, and I realized that no matter what I do, I will not impress you since it seemed you already have a solid impression of me even before we met."

    "Are you saying you''re quitting?" asked Dexter, while the deep lines in between Aries''s brows deepened.

    "Yes." Miguel''s answer was quick, without a second hesitation. "I quit, Your Majesty. Unless, of course, you invite me to tea. I would be very happy since I''m parched бк I don''t even know where to start."

 Chapter 828 The Black Sheep

    "I quit, Your Majesty. Unless, of course, you invite me to tea. I would be very happy since I''m parched бк I don''t even know where to start."

    Aries and Dexter watched how Miguel''s expression was slowly dominated by a smile. She narrowed her eyes, not saying anything to the threat and request Miguel had uttered just now.

    The nerve.

    But in the end, despite Miguel''s audacity to threaten the queen to leave his post just because of how he was being treated, Aries didn''t want him to leave her sight for now. It was too early to let Miguel run rampant.

    It was what they say; keep your friends close, and your enemy closer.

    Thus, here they were, in the queen''s garden, sharing a tea that Aries and Dexter couldn''t seem to enjoy.

    "Wooh!" Miguel whistled after drinking the tea in one go. "That''s refreshing!"

    Miguel grinned and then paused, lifting his eyes to Aries and Dexter. Aries was across from him while Dexter was just on the other side of the round table, separating the three of them. The two of them bore this in expression, eyes on Miguel.

    "Hehe. I was really thirsty and I couldn''t forget the taste Your Majesty offered me in our first meeting," exined Miguel, referring to that time Aries served her the best tea the Queen''s pce could offer. "I hope you do not mind myck of manners."

    "I certainly mind yourck of manners, Lord Miguel. You are in front of the sovereign of this country," Dexter expressed with a slight frown. "You may be the queen''s sparring partner, but that doesn''t mean you don''t conduct yourself ordingly. Orбн do not tell me it is because you believe the queen doesn''t deserve your respect. After all, she was an outsider бк just as what everyone else says?"

    "Sir Vandran, please do not misunderstand. Whoever sits on the throne deserves our Rothschild family''s respect and loyalty. Our House pledged to support the monarch with everything we have." Miguel kept an amicable demeanor under Dexter''s using gaze. "I''m a firm believer for this country tost, we, nobles should give our all to the monarch and prioritize unity. Therefore, the existence of thew which every one of us must abide."

    Dexter narrowed his eyes suspiciously; he wasn''t even concealing the doubt in his eyes.

    Miguel smiled and sighed faintly. "My father used to say I am like the ck sheep of our family because of my troublesome nature. That is why he sent me away for years, hoping I die on the battlefield to get rid of me. In other words, since I realized Her Majesty already has an impression of me бк Sir Vandran seemed to have his opinion about me as well бк I don''t see any reason to pretend to be someone I am not."

    "You''re saying yourck of manners and etiquette is who you are?" Dexter inquired.

    "And I alsock the ability to read the room," Miguel added with a rather proud smile. "I''m quite denseбн or so, what my men tell me every time."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I am at a loss for words, Lord Miguel." Dexter let out a dry chuckle, studying Miguel''s mien. Thetter seemed he was being genuinely honest, but ever since Dexter stepped into thisnd, he couldn''t believe everything he would see.

    Dexter learned his lesson when he found out London was actually a man. There was no trace of masculinity in London, after all. Good thing Dexter wasn''t the person who would be deceived by a person''s appearance. And by deceiving, it meant fancying a woman just because they have a beautiful face. Or else, he could imagine the shame he would go through, just like thete Maximus, whose first love was London.

    "Your Majesty?" Dexter turned his head in Aries''s direction, raising his brows upon catching her just staring at Miguel.

    Aries blinked ever so slowly before looking back at her brother. Her expression didn''t change, facing Miguel once again.

    "I am also rendered speechless. Although there is a part of me which tells me to stop lying, Lord Miguel." She pointed out, making Miguel tilt his head to the side. "From what I heard, you are the beloved son of the n leader of the Rothschild. I don''t think what you said just now made sense to the rumors that reached the Queen''s pce."

    "They were called rumors for a reason, Your Majesty."

    "Are you telling me your father, the n leader of the House Rothschild, sent his oldest child to die on the battlefield? And not prove himself?"

    "At least, that is what I felt."

    "And why would he do that to his heir?"

    Miguel didn''t answer immediately this time, smiling subtly. "If only I know the answer, I wouldn''t rebel. However, that is still a question that is still a mystery to me and I am working hard to get answers to it."

    "Even if that''s trueбн let''s say the n leader sent you away to die, aren''t you a little open about it, my lord?" Dexter chimed in while reaching for the cup of tea before him. "I''m certain you already know the brewing tension beneath the peaceful front of thisnd. Telling us this wouldn''t gain the slightest of our sympathy or trust, neither it would change anything. Still, I am curious. Why would you tell us such a thing to us? I do not want to make logical assumptions from an enemy''s point of view since I am certain I''d end with multiple conclusions that wouldn''t be in your favor."

    Dexter quirked a brow and kept his eyes on Miguel while he sipped the tea.

    "People always say I wear my heart on my sleeve, and my family often disagrees with my philosophy and beliefs." Miguel kept his short smile, eyes fixed on Dexter, before shifting his attention to Aries. He then shifted his eyes back to Dexter. "Believe me or not, I am not saying this not to gain sympathy or to get your trust. I am aware of the increasing tension in the royal court since Her Majesty''s coronation, but that is still not something I should concern myself with."

    The corner of his lips stretched until it reached his eyes. "I am the ck sheep, after all. I don''t need to meet everyone''s expectations aside from the ones I set for myself."

 Chapter 829 What Would You Do?

    "What do you think?" Dexter leaned back, eyes falling on Aries. "He''s your sparring partner for a month, so I presume you already got to know him quite well."

    Aries breathed in faintly, looking back at her brother as she breathed out deeply. They indulged with Miguel for minutes before thetter bid them farewell because he still had affairs ''he had been putting off'' to settle. Now, it was just Aries and Dexter, and after a few minutes, Dexter finally broke the prolonged silence between them.

    "Iбн" she trailed off, staring at Dexter for a moment. "... don''t know. He sounds genuine and looks honest, but at this point, I cannot just believe everything I see and hear in thisnd."

    "The feeling is mutual." Dexter rocked his head. "Thisnd will show you what you want to see and make you believe it is what it is. Unless you exert the effort to seek the truth."

    "Brother."

    "Mhm?" he raised his brows, cocking his head to the side. "What is it?"

    "It''s been a while since we have had time together."

    "That is true." Dexter chuckled dryly. "Apologies. It''s been a while since we had the time to rx, yet I keep bringing up things that we always think of day and night. I''m sorry."

    "It''s fine." Aries smiled, shaking her head mildly. "It''s not like we have a choice not to think about our dilemma. After all, the stakes are high and we need to make sure everything goes our way."

    His expression softened while staring at her. "How are you, Dani?" he leaned forward, propping his arms over the table. Dexter stretched his arm, sliding it over the table, and wiggled her fingers to signal her to take it.

    Seeing his action, her eyes softened while her stiff shoulders rxed. Aries slowly ced her hand on top of Dexter''s hand, squeezing it.

    "You know me, brother. I am well бк I do not have a choice but to be fine. The only constion I have here is that I know the people on my side were doing their best to help me in the background." She lowered her eyes, smiling. When she lifted her eyes back to him, she squeezed his hand before a question rolled out of her tongue.

    "How about you? How do you find the royal pce? Dealing with everyone here can be quite troublesome. They would aggravate you at every turn and nitpick on you." Another shallow breath slipped past her shut lips. "I hope you''re holding up well."

    "Do I have a choice?" he humored, rubbing her knuckles with his thumb. "It''s not that different from when I was in Haimirich. To be frank, I can''t believe I have to thank Abel for being such an emperor because, if not for him, the people here would''ve challenged my patience. They''re despicable."

    Aries chuckled at the humorous look Dexter cast him.

    "Besides, you are right. The stakes are high." Dexter slowly released her hand, leaning back against the chair. "If we made even the slightest mistake, I''d lose my only family. I cannot allow that to happen."

    Dexter nodded at her slowly while Aries pressed her lips, smiling subtly. Just like the drive, their enemies had to end all of them, they also had a strong driving force for why they were fighting. They had too much to lose just to give up, just like that. Therefore, the option of giving up was not even in the negotiation.

    "Brother." Her voice sounded softer while holding his gaze. "What would you doбн ifбн"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "If?" Dexter cocked his head to the side. "If, what, Dani?"

    Aries bit her inner lower lip. Spending time with her brother was the main agenda of this meeting. However, there was another reason Aries arranged this meeting.

    "What would you do if one day Danie shows up in front of you?" she huffed, forcing that question out of her lips. If there was someone who would rte to her dilemma, Dexter was the person to go to. After all, they both had beloved siblings whom they lost.

    "What did you say?" Dexter blurted out, a little surprised at her random question. Never once did the two of them talk about Dexter''s sister that deeply. There was one time they did, but that was all.

    "Danie." This time, Aries already gathered her courage to face this topic bravely. "After watching her take herst breath, having a funeral for her, burying her body, and grieving for herбн what would you do if she suddenly shows up in front of you after many years?"

    There was a brief silence between them, allowing the whisper of the wind fills in the silence. The two of them stared at each other.

    Dexter had no idea why would she suddenly ask such a question. However, he knew Aries. This might sound random, but it wasn''t just a what-if question to feed her curiosity. It was a question that required an honest answer to help her figure out something she hadn''t said yet.

    "Me?" Dexter drew a breath, humming as he pondered about it. "I honestly don''t know."

    He shrugged, blinking ever so slowly. "Many dislike Danie, but she is my sister and I cherish her. They told me I was stubborn and a fool бк some even say I am blind and perhaps, braindead. However, in my eyes, no matter how hateful my sister was, she will always be my family. If I can turn back time, I wouldn''t let Abel kill her."

    "That''s given," she replied. "You would''ve fought him."

    Much to Aries''s surprise, Dexter shook his head mildly.

    "No, sister." Dexter set his eyes back to her while his expression turned solemn. "I love and cherish Danie so much that I would turn a blind eye to everything she would do. People were right when they told me I was a fool because now, I realized that if I truly loved her so much, I should be the one to stop her from crossing the line."

    "Loveбн is not tolerating and watching them destroy themselves. Love is when you are prepared to be hated by that person because you disagreed with their twisted belief, and sabotage the action that might drive them to the corner," he continued with a short smile. "I''m not saying love and family are all about correcting each other, but rather, guiding and supporting each other to be better than we were a day ago."

    His smile stretched. "Just like us." Dexter nodded at her reassuringly.

    "As for your question that if Danie shows up in front of me, I''d be a little confused. She was already dead, and I had grieved for her; Imented day and night, ming myself for her end. So it will be impossible that she woulde back to life." He chuckled bitterly. "However, if that ever happens, I''d probably give myself a chance. I''m not saying I will blindly ept her with open arms, but rather, I''d give myself the chance to be the brother I should''ve been when she was still alive. And that includes taking her life with my own hands if necessary."

    Dexter rocked his head as he repeated under his breath, "if necessary."

 Chapter 830 [Bonus ]Is That What You Truly Want, Darling?

    "As for your question that if Danie shows up in front of me, I''d be a little confused. She was already dead, and I had grieved for her; Imented day and night, ming myself for her end. So it will be impossible that she woulde back to life. However, if that ever happens, I''d probably give myself a chance. I''m not saying I will blindly ept her with open arms, but rather, I''d give myself the chance to be the brother I should''ve been when she was still alive. And that includes taking her life with my own hands if necessary."

    "If necessary."

    Dexter''s answer for the scenario Aries gave him repeated in her head like a broken record. Sitting in a hot tub with flowers floating on the water, Aries was staring nkly at the corner wall.

    "If necessary," she whispered, repeating what Dexter said this afternoon.

    Dexter uttered exactly what Aries felt upon meeting Miguel Rothschild. Aries grieved for her family''s death. Her beautiful memories with them haunted her because every time she would go back to those wonderful days, what would follow was the day everything crumbled down.

    Grieving for someone, holding a funeral for them, and healing from that loss wasn''t an easy experience. It traumatized Aries so much that she didn''t want to lose any of her people. Not Abel, not Conan, not Dexter, and not those whom she considered a family.

    It was one of the reasons Aries was where? she was right now.

    She didn''t want to go through the pain of loss again. Them, having long lives for they were vampires, was a great benefit for her. That meant time wasn''t their enemy. Aries was terrified of losing someone that she even brought back Suzanne even if she had to sell half of her soul to the devil.

    The point was that it wasn''t that Aries didn''t like the idea that her family бк Davien, in particr бк coulde back to life. That was an ideal dream, which she hoped was the case. However, Aries already had all the reasons she should be wary of Miguel.

    Miguel was a Rothschild. Not to mention, she was in and full of vampires. Not just normal vampires, but noble and pureblooded vampires.

    "Miguel Rothschildбн" whispered Aries, spreading her arms over the rim of the tub as she was leaning back. "... just what the hell do you want?"

    Thinking about Miguel, Aries couldn''t help but recall all the time she spent with the man.

    Miguelбн was someone whom she didn''t expect to be. At the back of her head, she didn''t believe everything that Miguel had shown her all this time. He could just be pretending. If that was the case, Aries had to admit he was great at pretending.

    Miguel always looked so sincere whenever they were sparring. The first time they sparred took him by surprise, but after that, Miguel always fought her without any trace of hostility or regard for their title. He would fight her бк sometimes, almost like toying with her. Why, she thought so, because Miguel would always give Aries a fighting chance.

    The result was always the same. Miguel was stronger and more experienced on the battlefield than Aries. With every loss, his superiority was growing clearer to Aries. However, Miguel wouldn''t gloat about it but rather, give her a portion of his wisdom and tell her why she lost.

    "It wasбн perplexing," she muttered. "The more I think about it, the more he looks convincing." бк or the more he reminded her of her beloved brother, Davien.

    Davien was just like that. In the beginning, no matter what Aries does, she would never defeat Davien in a duel. The difference was that Davien would humbly gloat about it, but he never failed to give Aries pointers.

    Back then, Aries was so blinded by her pride that she would just keep ignoring Davien''s advice. However, when she learned how to calm down and use her brain in the battle, she started showing signs of improvement.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I feel like living in the past." Aries cocked her head back, shutting her eyes to rx. "Their tactic to dy me is quite efficient and effective."

    Silence followed her soothing voice, thinking that she was aware she was allowing her enemies to step into the trap they obviouslyid for her. Aries knew that dwelling in Miguel and how he looked exactly like her brother was dying her from advancing her ns.

    But she was allowing them to y the music while she danced to their tune. Not that she didn''t know, nor she was as hurt and confused as the first time.

    "Abelбн" Aries whispered, reopening her eyes ever so tenderly. "... your world is driving me mad. No wonder you ran away from home. If it was me, I would too."

    Hovering over her face as she had her head cocked back, resting the back of her head on the tub''s rim, was Abel''s. He had his hands on the rim, keeping her in between, bent over, and looking at her face that was upside down.

    "Are you tired?" he asked under his breath.

    "Who wouldn''t?" she blinked ever so tenderly. "That is the reason I had allocated more bath time. I''m tired, but that doesn''t mean I am giving up. All I need is restбн and yourpany."

    "And here I am." He shrugged, smiling yfully. "To give your mind some rest."

    Aries stared into his eyes, watching him lower his head slowly. Her eyes slowly closed, and soon, the softness of his lips dominated hers. However, their kiss didn''tst as he drew his head back slightly.

    "I heard you met your brother," he remarked, only to see a strange emotion in her eyes that only shed in them momentarily. "Do you want to talk about it before we get down to our nightly arrangement?"

    "Miguel Rothschildбн" she whispered, keeping her eyes locked with his. "... is Davien, Abel. The thought that I''d kill my brother the second time terrifies me."

    Aries paused. "Should I ask you to kill him for me? To a ce where I won''t see how he bleeds, smell the scent of his blood that is gushing out of his chest, and hear him struggle?"

    Abel''s countenance was unfazed by her remarks, which sounded more like a request. "Is that what you truly want, darling?"

    "No." Her lips curled up into a short smile. "What I truly want is to get rid of such pathetic and cowardly thoughts."

    Aries lifted her hands and cupped his face. "Help me."

    "My pleasure." His eyelids dropped, lowering his head to nt his lips on her. This time, without any intention of stopping where this would lead the two of them.

 Chapter 831 Its Been A While

    "Can''t sleep?"

    Aries blinked ever so tenderly, looking up at Abel. Her head was resting on his bare chest, her hand casually caressing it.

    "Did I disappoint you, darling?" he asked out of in curiosity. "Are you still worried about that man?"

    "You didn''t, and no, I wasn''t." Aries moved up a bit, nting a kiss on his cheek to reassure him. When she drew her head back slightly, the corner of her lips curled up into a subtle smile. "It''s just that I find it hard to sleep nowadays. I me it as a part of my transition."

    "Rightбн"

    "Don''t tell me you''ve forgotten what you did to me?" she humored, chuckling.

    "You were human. It''s a habit."

    "But surely, you don''t treat me like one while ravishing my body."

    Abel slowly rolled to his side, facing her. "That''s an exception."

    "And how was that an exception?"

    "Because I get drowned by lust?" he answered, but his tone was almost like he was making a guess. "I don''t really know what''s happening. All I know is the sensation that is burning my skin."

    Aries pressed her lips with its corners hooked up. Meanwhile, Abel winked at her, wiggling his brows yfully until a chuckle escaped her closed lips.

    "Anyway, if you can''t sleep, do you want to go out?" he suggested.

    "What?"

    "I''m asking you if you want to go out, darling," repeated Abel. "It''s been a while since we went out and honestly, although I do not mind squeezing myself in this limited space with you, I missed the days we go out. Just the two of us."

    Aries could only stare at him for a moment, thinking about theirst date. Surely, it had been a while. She couldn''t almost remember thest time they did. It had always been Abel sneaking into the Vandran residence or Aries going to the Imperial Pce for official business reasons.

    "Isn''t it dangerous?" she blurted out, a bit surprised because that wasn''t what she wanted to ask him.

    "This world is dangerous itself. What''s there to worry about?"

    "You know I am being watched, Abel."

    "Should we give them a good image of us two making love in the street?" Aries chuckled while he grinned, pulling her und body closer to his. "Let them watch, darling. Since you cannot stop them from doing so, do something that would make them chew their handkerchief in jealousy."

    "Are you speaking from experience?"

    "The night council in Haimirich could never sleep, knowing things could happen in a blink of an eye. They were meticulous and prepared all the time."

    "But unlike the people here, the night council in Haimirich wereбн tolerable."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "They were, indeed."

    Aries smiled, cupping his dashing face. Meanwhile, Abel casually stroke her spine underneath the sheet that was covering their und bodies.

    "So, where do you n on taking me?" she asked after a minute of nothing but silence. "Do you have any arrangements you must attend tonight?"

    "What makes you think I dare schedule my affairs at night? The time I am with you?"

    "So, there''s none?"

    "The day is for all those things, and the night is for you and me."

    "What are we going to do, then?"

    "Walk around? Enjoy the atmosphere in the night market? Perhaps gamble?" he guessed, blinking almost innocently. "Nothing special."

    His brows rose, eyes locked with her. They didn''t have any exchange after that until she pressed her lips into a thin line, nodding in agreement.

    Aries had been stuck inside this royal pce. No matter how stifling the atmosphere within the thick walls of the pce, Aries stayed in. Not that she had a choice, or she found the meaning of going out. If her memory served right, she went out in the past with Maximus. However, she didn''t have the leisure to enjoy the scenery of the Maind or the grandness of the capital with an insufferable man lingering around her.

    With that being said, Aries and Abel put on their simplest clothing to sneak out of the royal pce. One of the ''perks'' Aries gained staying in the royal pce was, she knew all the ways they could take to sneak out without notifying anyone.

    Abel''s ways were just too bold for her. She didn''t want the overprotective knights of the queen to chase after them, or the officials to use Abel of abducting her. After all, even if she tell them it was a misunderstanding, they would just keep twisting facts. So, to avoid such troublesome events, Aries led Abel to the secret passage until they reached the secret exit the servants would use when they wanted to sneak out.

    "Wait." Aries grabbed his wrist before they go out through the rusty gates, making him face her. "Come here."

    Aries stood a step before him, standing on her toes to cup his face. His brows rose, intrigued.

    "Stay still, my darling," came out a quiet voice before closing her eyes. Her lips moved, chanting a soundless spell.

    Abel''s hair, which now has a striking silver color, slowly turned blonde. His natural crimson eyes turned silver, and another mole appeared underneath his beauty mark near his eye. Abel quirked a brow. But what surprised him wasn''t the slight change in his appearance but in Aries. Her silver hair she had when she transitioned reverted to green, freckles appeared on her face, and a scar emerged across her cheek.

    She was still beautiful, but that scar across her cheek would make it hard for others to recognize her.

    When Aries reopened her eyes, a subtle smile dominated her face.

    "I still can do this much," she expressed with a tinge of pride. "Even a powerful vampire will be deceived and will see us how we see each other. However, those who were weaker, not only they will see us differently depending on their perspective, but they''d forget about our faces. It wouldn''t stick in their memory and no matter how they try to remember our faces, it''ll be a blur. It''s something that Maleficent taught me."

    "You still carry such a trick yet, you don''t use it."

    "I didn''t have a reason to use it until now." Her lips stretched until her teeth were showing. "Shall we?"

    Abel took a step, stretching his hands to the hood of her cloak. He carefully pulled it up, covering her head before he slid his hand down her arms to hold her hand. "Let''s go, darling."

 Chapter 832 Business

    On the capital of the maind, the night was akin to a day. Many people were still in the street either taking walks or simply enjoying what was in the Capital. The shopping district was also packed with all thedies and gentlemen shopping for their wardrobes.

    It was almost like any city in a country. The only difference was that the people here were vampires, and the shops and stalls didn''t offer a slice of simple meat on the stick or steamed buns. But rather, they offer bags of blood of different grades or services to enjoy themselves with blood and pleasure involved.

    Aries already heard about it from Maximus, as that man would asionally tease her about putting her on the market. Every time that was brought up, it would be a battle of tongues to know whose tongue was sharper.

    Seeing it with her own eyes, and how it wasn''t hidden, slightly threw her off. If this was in a different ce, this would be called a ck market. It was illegal for the rest of the world.

    The capital city of the Maind truly lived up to the nickname it had: the city of sin.

    "How appalling," whispered Aries, standing on the pavement with her eyes on the stall across the street. The merchant was rubbing his hands, smiling like a con, offering a vampire anything thetter could find interesting.

    With her heightened hearing, even when the merchant and client were speaking quietly, she could hear their conversation loud and clear.

    "Not only he was selling a blood of a siren, but he was also offering furs from a werewolf''s pelts." Aries scoffed in disbelief at this conversation unfolding. Her eyes shifted to the people passing by. She was certain they could hear or overheard a glimpse of it, yet there was no sign that they cared even the slightest. If anything, some people found it interesting and lined up in front of the stall.

    Aries couldn''t help but ball her hands, flinching when Abel spoke from her side.

    "What are you going to do about it, darling?" asked Abel, making her look back at him. "This is thend of vampires. What you grew up as wrong might be normal or right in this ce."

    He arched a brow, tipping his head to her balled fists. "I see you clenching your hand, darling."

    "Did you take me here so I get a clear view of what is happening in thisnd?"

    "No. I took you out because I want to spend some time with you." His answer was quick and honest. "For me, this sight is normal. I thought you''ve grown used to how different and twisted the matters in the royal court."

    Aries locked eyes with him for a moment before she loosened her grip. "Sorry. I lost my mind for a moment."

    "Don''t apologize, darling. It was my fault for forgetting these might be new to you." Abel slowly shifted his eyes to the stall across the street. "But this is called the sinful city for a reason. The maind imed to be a secludednd, but its market offered all sorts of atrocity. It was vile."

    "I''m surprised you call it vile."

    "Darling, I lived thousands of years outside this ce." Abel cocked his head back, eyes falling on her. "The norms I grew up in this ce slowly changed living outside the maind. If this market exists in Haimirich, Conan and Isaiah would''ve ransacked it."

    "You''re right." Aries rocked her head, seeing him move his arm as a gesture for them to continue their walk. She nodded, taking steps. Abel only walked when she was already beside him, walking side by side with her on the pavement of the wide street of the capital.

    "I don''t think I would get used to the maind," she muttered, looking ahead and ignoring the people on the street. "Even if I transitioned, I don''t find anything that will make me see the beauty of this market."

    "Don''t put a period on your statement, darling."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I am certain." Aries cast him a quick look. "My stomach turns just the thought that this market exists. What made it worse is that this market exists right under my nose, and I know I couldn''t just impose my beliefs as a former human just because I am the current queen. My enemies бк our enemies would surely find that as an opportunity to mess with me."

    Abel studied her displeased expression and shrugged. He peeled his eyes away from her, keeping his eyes ahead.

    "Thing was, this market might notst that long." Abel smacked his lips, observing how her brows furrowed from the corner of his eyes.

    "What do you mean?"

    "Wellбн" he trailed off as he stopped in front of a stall. Aries stopped when he did, keeping her curious eyes on him.

    "Our stall has yet opened бк" the merchant across from the two lifted his head, only for his grim face to brighten up. "My lord!"

    ''Huh?'' Aries slowly moved her gaze to the merchant, only to see thetter grin at Abel.

    "My lord, I didn''t know you''ll drop by here!" said the merchant, clumsily jogging around the stall until he was standing beside Abel.

    "It''s quitete. I wonder why your stall is still closed," Abel wondered.

    "Ahh, about that, it''s because the shipments we didst night got dyed till this afternoon," exined the merchant to Abel. "There were just a few problems since the young Lord of the Rothschild suddenly turned up to inspect the fort."

    Abel arched a brow, and seeing his expression, the merchant immediately added, "do not fret, my lord. Everything went well in the end."

    "That''s good." Abel nodded in satisfaction.

    "Anyway, my lord, why are you here? Didn''t you say you won''t be visiting anytime soon?"

    "I didn''te intentionally. I was just taking a nightly walk with the love of my life." Abel cast Aries a look, making her merchant look at the other person with Abel.

    As soon as the merchant''s eyesnded on Aries, his face slightly creased. The look in the merchant''s eyes appeared as though the love of Abel''s life was horrendous. Well, in his eyes, Aries was horrendous. However, the merchant didn''t dare to speak his thoughts aloud.

    Meanwhile, Aries focused on Abel and that triumphant grin across his face.

    ''Abelбн'' she called in her head, knowing he would hear her voice in his mind. ''... what the hell have you been up to?''

    Abel''s grin stretched even broader. ''Business to pay back my nephew and stop him from nagging me because I donated his fortune to you.''

 Chapter 833 You ShouldтАЩve Gone To The Barn If Milk Is What You Want

    ''Business to pay back my nephew and stop him from nagging me because I donated his fortune to you.''

    Aries stared at Abel, unknowingly holding her breath. His face brightened up before facing the merchant once again for a chat.

    ''There are only a few businesses I could think of that you got yourself involved,'' she thought, watching Abel chat with the merchant as if thetter were a good old friend. ''And all those businessesбн weren''t only shady, but destructive to a country''s economy.''

    As the queen of the maind, a part of her was rmed. She knew Abel from inside and out. Abel would never waste his time on something without ulterior motives that had massive consequences. Knowing he started doing business on the maind, Aries was certain of one thing.

    Aries looked around the market, ignoring Abel and the merchant. Her eyes lingered on the stalls and shops that sold things that were enough to make her stomach turn.

    One thing was for sure. This sight she was looking at would grow worse.

    That was the effect of Abel.

    Everything that he gets himself involved with often takes a spiral down. Just like the mightynd of the very familiar Maganti Empire.

    [ Thing was, this market might notst long. ]

    Suddenly, Abel''s previous remarks crossed her mind. She nced at Abel, only to see him smiling at the merchant with his hand on thetter''s shoulder.

    ''I think I know what he meant by that,'' she told herself, keeping her eyes on Abel''s side profile. ''If that is the case, then I''ll keep it in mind.''

    Many things couldn''t be said aloud. With many people watching Aries'' every movement, expression, and word, she didn''t dare say anything. Her enemies were already a step ahead of her with Miguel having the same face as Davien, her biological brother. She couldn''t give them information that could widen the gap between her and her enemies.

    As Aries patiently waited for Abel to finish his affairs, she quirked a brow upon catching a familiar figure from the corner of her eyes. There, not far away, she caught a man entering a shop.

    "Abel, I''ll just check the shop across the street," she said, narrowing her eyes at the particr establishment. She didn''t even cast Abel a look or waited for him to answer, sauntering off to confirm if she saw the person correctly.

    Aries was in a disguise and she knew no one would easily recognize her with the spell she put upon herself. Even if someone recognized her, she could easily get away with it. She wasn''t that useless to be able to save herself if troublees her way.

    The sound of a chime resonated the moment she pushed the door open, peeking her head in first. When she stepped in warily, she looked around. The establishment was a small pub and there were quite a few guests inside.

    The music was low and soothing, and everyone inside was busy talking to each other or enjoying the beverages that had a drop of blood in them. Aries walked slowly before her eyesnded on the bar counter, particrly on the person sitting in on them.

    Aries narrowed her eyes, catching the bartender across the bar talking to the guests. Her careful and soundless steps continued approaching the counter.

    "Here''s your rum and бк" as soon as Aries was close, the bartender served the guest a ss of what seemed to be a rum, only to stop talking when the guest grabbed his wrist. "What are you doing?"

    "I ordered something that will help me sleep, sir," said the guest. "I meant a ss of milk."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Upon hearing the voice of the man, Aries let out a deep exhale. She knew that voice even from a mile away and she wouldn''t mistake it for another.

    "You should''ve gone to the barn if milk is what you want," she remarked, marching to the guest and sitting down on the stool beside him. Aries faced him squarely, revealing her poker face. "Let him go, Fabian. You came to a pub, so don''t expect them to serve hot milk or choctes."

    Fabian slowly turned his head in Aries''s direction. The moment their eyes met, his lips stretched from ear to ear until his eyes squinted.

    "Your Ma бк mydy." He let go of the server''s wrist, keeping his attention on Aries. "It''s been a while."

    "It has been." Aries rocked her head and then nced at the server. "I would like a ss of wine бк the most expensive one. He''ll pay for it."

    "The house I am working in is currently struggling with finances, mydy. I am afraid I won''t be able to afford it."

    "I heard." She clicked her tongue continuously, shaking her head. "Poor you."

    He kept his smile, tossing a few silvers on top of the counter. "Good thing I saved up my sry. Hence, we have something to eat."

    "The Grimsbanne and their people are surely interesting people."

    "We are family," said Fabian, eyes on Aries. "Money wasn''t the foundation of my subservience."

    "That is why it is interesting." Aries faced the server when he returned with a ss of wine. "Thank you."

    The server smiled subtly before shifting his eyes to Fabian. There was wariness in his eyes, which Fabian ignored while Aries just chose to not dwell on it.

    "So." Without drinking the wine, Aries cleared her throat and faced Fabian once again. "What are you doing here?"

    "I was looking for a ss of milk. It is not like we are banned from walking on the street; I am from a noble house, after all."

    "Is that really the only reason?" she quirked a brow, suspicious of his answer. Not that Fabian wouldn''t do such a thing, but she still had this faint connection with him because he was still a holder of Maleficent. Aries might''ve gotten rid of Maleficent''s core, but there were still lingering powers left within her.

    "I know you, Fabian. What are you doing in the capital all alone? Don''t tell me you''re simply out to buy ingredients for tomorrow''s breakfast?" she inquired. This time, she was deliberately seeking an answer. "I might be able to help."

    Fabian didn''t answer immediately but maintained his smile. After a few seconds, he sighed.

    "I was searching for a missing item," he exined, keeping it short and simple. "I''ve been sensing Maleficent''s twin around the capital. Thus, I''m trying to locate it. Unfortunately, even though this ce reeks of the item''s scent, it''s no longer in here."

 Chapter 834 Can I Get Praise Now?

    "I was searching for a missing item. I''ve been sensing Maleficent''s twin around the capital. Thus, I''m trying to locate it. Unfortunately, even though this ce reeks of the item''s scent, it''s no longer in here."

    Only when Fabian mentioned this did it cross Aries that Maleficent''s scent was drifting in the inbound breeze of the establishment. It was faint, but she would never mistake this scent.

    "I thought it was you," said Aries, looking back at him. "But now that you mentioned it, it was indeed different."

    "Not different. It smells like you."

    "Used to smell like her."

    Fabian rocked his head. "My bad." He smacked his lips. "What about you, mydy? Now that you know the purpose of why I am here, may I know what are you doing in the streets of the capital?"

    "My dwelling had been boring." She shrugged, lifting the ss of wine to her lips. "I thought taking a night walk was a good idea, and then I saw youe in here."

    "That is quite a long walk."

    "Indeed, it is." Aries licked her lips, eyes on the wine. "This is one fine wine."

    "They served it with noble blood."

    "A noble?" she arched a brow. "Whose house is this?"

    "This establishment, if my memory serves correctly, was owned by the Rothschild. They dominate the market."

    "They''re pouring their blood in the drinks they served?"

    "Not pour, but just a tiny drop of it. That''s why it was called luxury." Fabian shrugged indifferently. "The Rothschild n had a very special blood almost as precious as the royal family. Of course, they were still not on the same caliber as the Grimsbanne, but it had its healing properties."

    "As I heard."

    "Most of their clients were those on the highest socialdder. Not everyone can drink in here."

    Aries thought about this detail, which wasn''t new to her, but definitely slipped her mind. The Rothschild was one of the wealthiest noble families on the maind. The poorest бк officially бк was the Grimsbanne since their reinstatement.

    "I wonder if it''s because of age that important details such as this would slip my mind." She snapped out of her momentary trance. "Good thing I bumped into you. Tell me if you found the thief who stole myte husband''s favorite creation."

    "I thought you don''t want anything to do with Maleficent?"

    "I don''t. After what it had done in my life, my desire that Maleficent will cease to exist grew significantly. However, holding onto it is still far better than knowing someone else holds such a dangerous thing." Aries leaned back, nting her palm on the edge of the counter. "I don''t want to risk it."

    "You should me your husband for being so careless."

    "Well, I apologize for the inconvenience." Suddenly, Abel''s voice caressed their ears from behind. Fabian and Aries looked back, only to see Abel smiling at them before he marched to her seat. "I was in a hurry that night because my wife was on the brink of death. Although it sounds like an excuse, I believe it is a valid reason."

    Abel positioned himself on the stool next to Aries. He propped his side against the counter, eyes on Aries and then on Fabian over her.

    "Time wasn''t in my favor that time. Therefore, I have to make a choice and obviously, I would choose my wife over anything else," he added in a knowing tone.

    "I''m certain you didn''t make a choice that night, Your Majesty." Fabian smiled until they couldn''t see his eyes anymore. "You simply left because youpletely forgot about the weapon."

    Abel''s smile stretched. "That''s definitely not the case," he denied. "I''m not like Samael, who forgets the important details and never sticks to the n."

    "My master never forgets the n. He just doesn''t care about it."

    "I''m not like him."

    "I believe you."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Aries let out a deep sigh as the two chatted with Abel, denying all usations he made up in his head while the other slowly agreed with him, but with a doubtful tone.

    "What done is done." Aries rolled her eyes, putting a stop to their conversation. "There''s no point in dwelling on it."

    "That is exactly my point." Abel nodded in agreement, only for Fabian to press his nerve.

    "Yet, Your Majesty is being defensive."

    "I am not being defensive."

    "Oh, for goodness''s sake. We know how much you adore me, Abel. Even if you need to make a choice that night, it doesn''t make you any less affectionate."

    "Thank you for the reassurance, darling." Abel smiled in satisfaction, ignoring Fabianpletely as if that was all he needed to hear. "Anyway, I smell Maleficent. It''s definitely noting from you two."

    "Well, Fabian came here because he sensed Maleficent. Unfortunately, the person left before he even came in."

    "It was the reason I was indulging with you two to mend my sorrow that this failure brought me."

    Abel darted his eyes to Aries and Fabian, cocking his head to the side. "What are you maniacs saying?"

    "Huh?" Aries and Fabian looked at Abel, confused.

    "What are you up to now?" she inquired.

    "I''m not saying inside this establishment." Abel pointed over his shoulder, directly at a particr table in the corner. Aries and Fabian slowly set their eyes on the corner table, only to see an empty ce. However, when their eyes lifted, they caught a person walking away through the transparent ss.

    "Malefic бк" Aries abruptly stopped when Fabian jumped from his seat, rushing outside to follow the person who seemed to have been watching them. "I have to бк"

    Aries didn''t think twice as she pushed herself away to follow Fabian. But just as she did, Abel grabbed her wrist to stop her. She looked back at him, confused.

    "Abel, why are you stopping me?" she blurted out. "We have to help him."

    "He won''t catch her." Abel leisurely propped his jaw against his knuckles, wiggling his brows meaningfully. "If we could catch her that easily, I would''ve done it to cheer you two beforeing in. Let''s not waste our breath, darling. Fabian is a man without anymitment to someone, so he could waste his time. But not me, since my wife isn''t legally my wife in thisnd."

    Abel said a lot of things, but Aries only dwelled on one word.

    "She?"

    "Yes. It''s a she, darling. I might not be able to catch her, but just like how she was watching us, I was also watching her. You''d be disappointed if I don''t do this much, right?"

    For a moment, Aries held her breath whilst staring at him. No wonder Abel was being so defensive, which was very unlike him. He was buying himself some time to observe someone without being caught.

    "Can I get praise now?" he brought her back from her trance by poking the tip of her nose. "I did a good job."

    Her shoulders rxed as a subtle smile turned up on her face.

    "Yes, you did." She cupped his cheek with both her hands, eyes locked with his. "That narrows down the people who could''ve gotten the weapon."

    "No, it didn''t, darling." He shook his head, grinning from ear to ear. "She didn''te from thisndбн which I found even more interesting."

    "You''ve seen her face?"

    "A shawl covered the lower half of her face, but I know those features." He winked. "I''m the one who lost it, so I''m the one who will retrieve it. Don''t worry. I''ll get it back soon."

 Chapter 835 She

    Meanwhileбн

    Fabian was neither surprised nor appalled why Abel didn''t tell them about this person watching them from outside the pub. He had grown numbed of the Grimsbanne''s antics that it was no surprise that Abel. currently, the head of the family was the same.

    What surprised Fabian was that he didn''t notice someone was watching him. Deep in his heart, he was certain that wasn''t because he just grew used to being watched sinceing back to the maind with Aries.

    Fabian was a person who often had options бк he would create them if there were none. And it was his option to ignore the prying eyes that were on him every second of the day. But this oneбн he had to admit he missed it.

    That was why when Abel pointed at the person standing outside the pub, Fabian came after the person like a bolt of lightning. He followed the person, ignoring the narrow and dangerous streets of the capital, but to no avail.

    After minutes of running after the person, Fabian found himself in a narrow and dark alley. He gazed up at the towering wall. It was a dead end.

    Fabian was so sure the person turned this way. However, when he did, there was nothing but a wall.

    He nted his palm on the wall to check if there was any suspicious spell on it.

    "There wasn''t," came out a mumble, retrieving his hand from it. He took three steps back, eyes on the concrete wall. His gaze then veered to the other establishment from either side of the alley. Unlike the wall before him, the establishment was shorter.

    If he thought logically, this height wouldn''t be impossible to climb up and get away. He narrowed his eyes, rocking his head in agreement.

    "Well, at least now I know I should be faster next time," he told himself, turning on his heel to walk away. There was no point in dwelling on something that was considered a failure. Not that this was his only chance. Fabian was certain there would be another time to catch this little mouse who stole Maleficent''s weapon.

    Just as Fabian took a step, something glinted from the corner of his eyes. He slowly turned his head, furrowing his brows. Fabian walked towards it, squatting down to pick up what seemed to be a broken anklet.

    Fabian raised his hand while holding the anklet, looking at it up close.

    The essory was thin gold, something that one wouldn''t normally see on the maind. Thisnd liked thevish essories that could be seen from a mile away. Many people preferred that to unt their wealth, status, and position in high society.

    Although there were still those jewelers that sold simple essories, Fabian had seen no one wear them. Perhaps Lilou would, since his madam would rather wear none or those that wouldn''t weigh anything.

    "This materialбн" he moved the broken anklet closer before the corner of his lips curled up into a smirk.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    The look that suddenly dominated his face appeared as though he was proud of something. Fabian grabbed the broken anklet as he rose to his feet. His other hand fished out a handkerchief inside his pocket, cing the broken anklet inside the open handkerchief before folding it once again.

    "I didn''t know she was still alive," he whispered, gazing up at the top of the establishment. "How interesting, indeed."

    Fabian kept his eyes on the top of the establishment, even though no one was there in there. After looking at the broken anklet close, he figured the material used was something that would never be seen on the maind.

    There was only one ce he had gone through before that produced such a delicate yet valuable essory. A piece would be worth a fortune бк just like this one.

    "If I haven''t gone to the city of gold, I wouldn''t know." After another minute, Fabian turned on his heel and walked away with his lips stretched from ear to ear until his eyes were squinting. "I''m looking forward to meeting her."

    *******

    [ Royal Pce ]

    After Aries''s coronation, Dexter was announced to be a part of the Queen''s cab. Since then, he always stayed in the royal library, which was only avable to a few people in the country. He was given a chancery of his own, but Dexter preferred doing his work in this ce and reading some books in his free time.

    Staying in his chancery was troublesome. He wouldn''t mind the trouble if thisnd was the Haimirich Empire. He had grown used to it. However, even if Aries was the queen of the maind, Dexter didn''t have the same passion he had for the empire. Therefore, he would stay in the library day in and out, unless he had to attend the royal court.

    So far, no one had entered this ce since taking his oathбн until tonight.

    "What are you doing here?" asked Dexter from the chair on the side of the library to the person who entered this ce. His eyes went up and down the man, before locking eyes with him again. "Didn''t you say you have important arrangements today? That is why you left the afternoon tea you forced yourself into?

    "Well." Lord Miguel smiled, holding his hand behind him while marching to the seat where Dexter was sitting.

    There were documents and books stacked up on the desk, but it wasn''t high enough to cover their faces, as both men were tall even when they were sitting down. Dexter raised a brow as Miguel casually took the seat across from him without even asking him. Surely, Miguel had a questionable background in etiquette.

    "Since you sat down, I assume you are here because you heard I''ve been hiding in the royal library," Dexter spoke once again, breaking the silence between them before it could dominate them. "I wonder what business your lordship has with me?"

    Miguel kept a short smile, staring at Dexter for a moment. "It seemed both sister and brother had held some sort of grudge against me. It would be nice to know the reason for that, so I could either defend myself for something I''m sure I didn''t do, or at least understand the roots of this hatred."

 Chapter 836 Some Pressing Matters In The Fort

    "It seemed both sister and brother had held some sort of grudge against me. It would be nice to know the reason for that, so I could either defend myself for something I''m sure I didn''t do or at least understand the roots of this hatred."

    Dexter furrowed his brows and cocked his head to the side. He didn''t speak for a full minute, but he kept his eyes on Miguel.

    "You are wrong, Lord Miguel. I don''t hate you." Dexter shook his eyes whilst keeping eye contact with the man. "I just don''t have any reason to like you. To be fair, it is not a personal thing. I generally don''t like the maind and everything and everyone in it."

    "Ohбн"

    "If you knew the reason I am in thisnd, then ask no more. Our lives in the empire weren''t perfect, but at least, we don''t look over our shoulders every second of every day in fear that those people who dragged us here were already ten steps ahead of us," he continued without a second hesitation since it was no secret that thisnd might''ve appeared united from the outside, the internal affairs were at the brink of crumbling down. "It is only natural that I am wary of anyone who approaches me бк especially my sister."

    "Don''t tell me you came here just because of this?" Dexter tilted his head to the side. "I wouldn''t appreciate that if that is the case."

    "Fortunately, that wasn''t the reason. Although it was quite reassuring that it is not because of me that you and Her Majesty are wary of me." Miguel heaved a sigh of relief as if that rified everything. "Anyway, I am d you rified that since Her Majesty wouldn''t бк I believe."

    Miguel leaned forward, propping his arms against the edge of the table. His expression slowly turned solemn, eyes locked with Dexter.

    "The purpose of my visit is because I have some concerns about the current trades that are going in the market," he brought up, making Dexter raise a brow. "The maind had survived on its own, away from the rest of the world. Therefore, some norms here would be considered strange to others. Worse. Illegal."

    "I know what you are talking about, my lord. Don''t go around in a circle. I would appreciate it if you spare me the narrative and delve into the main concern."

    "My main concern is that the numbers of the ins and outs in the fort weren''t being inspected thoroughly," Miguel remarked. "I''m not ming the Queen or the person in charge of the fort. Neither I am using them бк I apologize in advance if I sound that way. All I am saying is that letting everything that is delivered in thisnd would soon show its problems, especially without any discretion."

    "The trades in thisnd, as I had said, were normal only in thisnd. And thus, we got away with it not just because the Maind was a secluded ce, but because it was done with great discretion and the hoard of supply," the man added solemnly. "But now, I''m afraid this practice is being forgotten."

    There was a moment of silence after Miguel raised his concern. There was a person in charge of the fort, but that person was still under Dexter''s jurisdiction. Miguel heard many bad things from other novels that weren''t approved by the queen and her people, but since the Queen ced all her people with enough power in every area, Miguel thought of going straight to Dexter.

    "My lord, forgive me if this maye off as an offense, but I couldn''t help but question if you returned here without reading a few records of what had happened during the time of your absence," was Dexter''s response. His tone had a tinge of genuine wonder. "If not, allow me to brief you on the summary of the past years in thisnd."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Just a few months ago, the maind hosted a world summit. If you do not know what that is, it is a gathering of sovereigns from eachnd to talk about world affairs," he continued. "One of the agendas of this gathering is acknowledging the maind as a part of the world. There might be unfortunate events that had happened in this ce during the summit, but the Maind still achieved its goal."

    "The influx of trades in the fort is the fruit of that hard work. The Maind isn''t just dealing with one or two people anymore, but with established countries and empires. In simple terms, our exports and imports were growing бк so is our diplomatic rtion with these countries Her Majesty had handpicked herself." Dexter leaned forward, staring at Miguel over the stack of books on the table between them. "I had allocated a special unit to oversee the trades. It might appear as not as strict as before, but trust me, they are thorough."

    "As I''ve said, I don''t like everyone in thisnd or the Maind itself. However, for as long as my sister sits on that throne, I am doing my best to not embarrass her." His tone sounded firmer and more sincere. "Besides, what''s there to worry about? Back then, the trades here were mostly goods that could guarantee a guillotine if it was in the Haimirich Empire. But all the trades Her Majesty has had were simply to make this nation richer through legal means."

    Miguel''s lips were drawn into a thin line, assessing Dexter''s face.

    "You did an inspection and I assume that is the reason you came to seek me." Dexter tapped a finger on a small space where there were no books or documents. "I appreciate you for raising this concern with me, but if my words aren''t enough, then I can grant you ess to oversee thend for a short while until you are reassured."

    "There is no need, my lord." Miguel shook his head. "You were correct that the goods weren''t anything concerning, but only the number rmed me. Still, if you say that your people are doing their job, I put my trust in you and in them."

    "Thank you."

    "However, if you don''t mind, I would like to inspect the fort from time to time."

    "As you wish." Dexter nodded without a second hesitation. "If that is all, you may leave. I still have more pressing matters to finish tonight."

    Miguel assessed Dexter''s amicable mien before pushing himself up. Thetter seemed believable, so Miguel wanted to trust him.

    "Thank you for sparing your time to ease my worry." He offered Dexter a curt bow before bidding him farewell, turning on his heel to walk away.

    Little did Miguel know, as soon as he turned his back on Dexter and sauntered off, the corner of Dexter''s lips curled up into a cunning smirk.

 Chapter 837 Infidelity

    [ HOUSE ROTHSCHILD ]

    Miguel jumped out of the carriage with a deep exhale. After his conversation with Dexter, he went straight home, since there was nothing he could do. Dexter made sense, so he just wanted to trust the administration.

    "Wee back, my lord." The head butler''s voice stole Miguel''s attention, gazing at the old man and a few servants who came out to wee his return. "It seemed you had a long day."

    "Well, I did." Miguel scratched the back of his head, lifting his brows as he gaze at the mansion behind the servants.

    "Your guest is here again today," said the butler before the young lord of the noble n could ask a question. "My lord, I don''t think you should keep avoiding her. It had been a month, and her patience is running thin."

    "What a demanding and imperious person бк she''s annoying." A deep frown dominated Miguel''s dashing face, displeased about this guest that had been bugging him since his return. "I don''t want to talk to her."

    "The master, your father, is here as well."

    Miguel''s frown deepened. "That old geezer."

    "My lord."

    "Fine!" Miguel threw his hands in the air. "It''s not like I can keep avoiding them."

    "Facing problems or people you dislike is better," advised the butler politely, smiling helplessly at his young master. "Please."

    "I already said fine." Miguel rolled his eyes, motioning his arms. "Lead the way. I''d rather get this done and over бк poor ears."

    "Please follow me."

    With that being said, Miguel followed the head butler of the estate. It had been a while since Miguel met his father. Even after his return, he only sent the man a letter to announce his return. This only showed his rtionship with his father, the current n leader of the Rothschild.

    Soon, Miguel stood in front of a two-door with the butler before him. The butler stepped to the side, head low.

    "They''re waiting for you inside," announced the butler politely.

    Miguel simply nced at the butler, expressing his halfhearted thanks. The butler''s response was a smile, not waiting for Miguel to enter as he bowed once again before he sauntered off. Meanwhile, Miguel idled in front of the door.

    "This is annoying," he muttered, reaching for the handle. His expression turned frosty even before he pushed the door open.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    His eyes instantly caught two figures inside the drawing room. The exquisite aroma of tea wafted through his nostril, making him dart his eyes between the people sitting across from each other at the round table. One was a woman sipping from the teacup while the other was a man in his ssicvish suit. They appeared as though they were having a great time chatting with each other, but stopped upon sensing Miguel''s presence.

    "Lovely evening," greeted Miguel sarcastically. "It seemed you two are having a good time and my presence ruined the lovely mood. My bad."

    "We were having a bet whether you will run away or open that door," replied the woman with a rxing voice, turning her head in his direction. She had her eyes shut, yet her stance seemed as though she could see Miguel clearly.

    "Is that so?" Miguel smirked. "I wonder who won the bet?"

    "Son, I understand your rebellious nature. However, you should sit down first, since we already heard enough of your polite greetings." The man chimed in. His voice and aura emanated authority, but his tone while talking to his son was much more tolerable, as if he was just used to Miguel''s sassing. "Come. I would like to take a look at you."

    Miguel''s expression died, staring at the man, who was smiling at him warmly. Reluctance and dismay were apparent in his eye, but Miguel said nothing. Instead, he marched forward and sat down on the avable chair at the table he didn''t want to be invited in.

    He then faced his father like a kid on a brink of throwing a tantrum. The man assessed his face and smiled in satisfaction.

    "I''m d to see you return safely, son," the man expressed, nodding reassuringly. "Now, I am at peace and I can rest for some time. Your mother had been very upset with me since I''ve been in the capital for quite some time now."

    "She''s upset because you are in the capital where this vixen dwells," Miguel didn''t filter his words, casting the woman, who had her eyes shut, a look. "Even I would be upset if my spouse is running free in a ce close to her previous lover''s residence. What made that worse is this former lover doesn''t even know boundaries."

    "Miguel." The man, Albert Rothschild, the n leader of the Rothschild, frowned deeply. "I am being lenient since it had been a while since I saw you and because you are my son. However, there''s a limit to a person''s ignorance and crassness."

    Miguel sneered, gazing at his father with ridicule. "Now, you are taking her side. Do not tell me you had gone back to your old ways, Father?"

    "Miguel!"

    "Lord Albert, please do not scold him. The junior lord is still young and needed guidance." The woman chimed in before the father and son argued even more. But in Miguel''s eyes, she wasn''t trying to calm things down, but rather disying how she got his father wrapped around her fingers again. "Not to mention, he came from a long expedition. I''m certain he is tired on top of the things he had to settle when he returned to the maind."

    "What a hypocrite." Miguel hissed, darting his eyes between the two. "I heard about what happened to mother. She''s ill again бк you two and your infidelity turn my stomach."

    The woman slowly opened her eye, revealing clouded pupils and irises. "Your mother is ill because she always had a weak body. We are not here to talk about the adult''s affairs, but yours. Please. Do not take things too personally. Am I correct, Lord Albert?"

    "That is right." Lord Albert nodded, not denying or confirming his son''s ''usation.'' "We want you to monitor the queen. She''s dangerous."

 Chapter 838 Dreams Can Be So Vivid Sometimes

    "We want you to monitor the queen. She''s dangerous."

    Lord Albert didn''t even go around in circles, delving into the main agenda. Miguel couldn''t help but scoff in disbelief, darting his eyes from his father and his mistress, Giselle. Although Giselle looked like an unfortunate, blind youngdy, Miguel knew how rotten her soul was.

    Until now, Miguel couldn''t figure out why his father even married his mother if he was so head over heels for this vixen. The House Rothschild had an immacte public image, but behind closed doors, everyone knew how ugly the rtionships in this family were.

    "We heard she chose you as her instructor. The night council is pleased to hear that she seemed to have found an inkling toward you. After all, the queen had been wary of anyone, especially those who were associated with the night council," exined the blind woman named Giselle. "We are not asking you to harm her, but keep a close eye on her. If you can, gain her trust. It''ll be good for everyone."

    "That is right, Miguel. Even though we were keeping a close eye on her, our attention was split. We cannot take our eyes off the Grimsbanne, especially with Wrath walking freely on the surface of the maind," Lord Albert added, gazing at his son with expectation. "If it''s the queen, I''m sure you can handle her on your own."

    Miguel listened to his father and Giselle speak as though they already included him in whatever ns they had. His disgust toward them swirled in his eyes, rendered speechless for a second.

    "Aren''t you both ashamed?" he scoffed, leaning back. "You are asking me to spy on the sovereign? Even if, let''s say, she is dangerous and a menace to the maind, what makes you think I would listen to the two of you? If it wasn''t clear to you yet, you two repel me. If you hate the queen so much, I would rather support her just to spite you two."

    "Sonбн" Lord Albert sighed. "You don''t understand. Abel Grimsbanne and the Queen killed thete king."

    "No." Miguel shook his head. "Thete king died because every single one of you fueled his greed. You know Wrath will tear all your heads off without a second hesitation and yet, no one stopped thete king from poking his nose in a ce where it doesn''t belong. You killed Fourth. Wrath probablyunched thest blow, but you two aren''t less innocent. Do not wash your hands бк we all know they''re disgusting."

    "You said you would rather support the queen just to spite us." This time, Giselle spoke, stressing the words that came out directly from Miguel''s mouth. "Are you sure you would do that? If you know, she might ruin thisnd your mother loved so dearly?"

    Miguel''s eyes and body shook, balling his hands on hisp into a tight fist. "Do not mention my mother in this."

    "We all know that your mother values the maind more than her own life. Her bloodline was what kept thisnd hidden, away from trouble бк away from the ever-changing hearts of the people outside," Giselle continued, ignoring Miguel''s warnings. "Outsiders had flocked in this ce, ruining the peace your mother tried to maintain. Will you really support someone who tried to ruin your mother''s hard work?"

    "You бк"

    "Miguel, we are not asking for too much." Before Miguel could explode from anger, Lord Albert backed up. "We are simply telling you to observe her until our nse into motion. She already dyed our ns, and we couldn''t afford another dy."

    Miguel tried his best to control his anger. His body just wouldn''t stop shaking, lowering his unblinking eyes. Couldn''t these two see? How repelled and against he was their idea? Yet, they kept talking as if they didn''t even try to understand his feelings.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    His disgust and hatred toward these two deepened, but he knew he shouldn''t sumb to his emotions. Whether or not Miguel admitted it, he might be strong and experienced, but these two were still superior to him. They would easily subdue him and imprison him until he ''learn'' his lesson. Just like the old times.

    Miguel''s shaking fist loosened after several seconds, closing his eyes to calm himself down. When he reopened his eyes, a quiet huff slipped past his agape mouth.

    "I am more worried about what this n you people are talking about," he confessed, unable to conceal the ridicule in his voice. "However, I already nned to observe the queen. Before anything else, the safety of the maind and the people in it were my priority. Before anything else, I pledged a royal knight. I took an oath to protect the people of the maind and thisnd that had millennia of history. You don''t have to tell me what to do."

    Miguel pushed himself up, keeping hisposure before these two. "You don''t have to tell me what to do or what not to do. If you keep this up, I''m afraid you have to sacrifice your time taking part in bed-swapping and ying with your mistress you are so proud of doing all the work you passed to me."

    "This goes to say if your ns endanger the people and thisnd, I would also be the first to stop you," he continued, stressing this statement. "I heard enough of your hypocrisy. Do not disturb me once again. May you two have a lovely night."

    Miguel didn''t idle as he bowed slightly before walking away. His steps picked up as if staying in the same room with those two would kill him.

    Meanwhile, as Miguel walked away, Giselle kept her eyes on the shut door, which Miguel mmed closed.

    "Apologies," said Lord Albert, making her look back at him. "Miguel is still young and has a very creative mind. I just ignored most of itбн"

    "Because he is your son." Giselle finished the man''s sentence with an understanding smile. "Do not worry, my lord. I understand your heart as a parent."

    "Your understanding is greatly appreciated."

    "I''m just d that the queen seemed to have not manipted the young Lord to gain his trust."

    "It is hard to gain Miguel''s trust, so I am reassured. He might be quite rebellious and use me of things I didn''t do, but he is reliable. It''s just that sometimes, it surprised me why he believed I was taking part in such an embarrassing act as bed-swapping."

    "Dreams can be so vivid that one out of ten people believes them," said Giselle. "Do not worry, my lord. I promised you, didn''t I? I will fix him when the time is ripe."

 Chapter 839 A Glimpse Of The Side She Never Saw

    "Your Majestyбн ahhбн"

    A woman''s moan resonated in the room, followed by a man''s hush. Their conversation was too quiet to make up from a bystander''s vantage point. The sounds of their moans and grunts would sometimes slip past their lips, but then they would muffle it. There were other noises those two people were making, slowly filling up the dead silent night and sinking deeper into the heat of pleasure.

    Little did they know, as their round of sinful passion grew intense, a young man was standing just in front of them in the dark.

    "Ahhбн Your Majestyбн"

    ''Fatherбн'' the young man''s irises slowly grewrge, watching a man pinning down a woman on his desk. Her skirt was pulled up, revealing her thighs with their lower bodies connected.

    Her moans intensified, growing louder and louder, just like how their movements turned faster. The man''s grunts and groan also grew louder. It didn''t take long before both of them squealed in pleasure, muffling them as the man smashed his lips against the woman.

    As the man and woman panted, recovering from their intense activity, a smile turned up on their faces. However, their smile was short-lived as they caught a figure standing from the corner of his eyes. When the man turned his head and his eyes fell on the young man, his pupils instantly went wide.

    "Your Highness!" the woman panicked, covering her chest as she hastily got up from the desk. She lowered her head, ashamed to look at the young man who had witnessed everything.

    "Fatherбн" the young man''s deep green eyes shone with a red undertone. "... what are you doing with that servant?"

    The man gazed at the young man sternly before he sighed in defeat.

    "Get out of here." He nced over his shoulder, watching the woman peek at him nervously.

    "Ye бк yes, Your Majesty."

    The young man''s handsome face remained stoic, keeping his eyes on the man he called father. He didn''t even cast the woman a single look as she bowed to him before she scurried away. When there were just the two of them, the young man spoke again.

    "Does Mother know?" he asked without a second hesitation. "My trust in you depends on your answer, Father. How can you do this to her?"

    The man kept a stern expression, observing how his son''s eyes shake a little.

    "I am a man, son. From time to time, I needed to release the primal desire I have as a human being."

    "Does mother know?"

    "My heart belongs to your mother бк"

    "Does she know?!" this time, the young man raised his voice until it shook.

    There was a moment of silence between them, listening to the echoes of the young man''s voice. They maintained eye contact, and the longer the silence reigned over them, the more the young man''s fist tightened.

    "Yes," the father breathed out after a moment. "Yes, she knows."

    The young man''s breath hitched. "She knows her infidelity?"

    "She''s the one who suggested it, son." Shock instantly took over the young man''s face at his father''s remarks. "Your mother is in terrible shape and she knew she couldn''t fulfill her husband''s needs. Therefore, she understands this."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    The young man tried to process his father''s words, but all that was left to him were myriads of question marks. He couldn''t understand it, even though the words uttered were crystal clear.

    "My son бк"

    "Who else knew about this?" asked the young man, cutting off his father before thetter could even talk. "Who else?"

    The man pressed his lips into a thin line; he didn''t answer. However, his expression was enough to answer the young man''s question.

    "Everyone?" the young man scoffed in disbelief. "How about my sisters? Do they know?"

    "Your mother''s only request is that none of our children should know."

    "And you broke that promise."

    "I бк you''re right." The man huffed quietly. "I broke my promise."

    The young man''s fist tightened as his jaw tightened. All his life, he saw this man before him as a dutiful husband and loving father. A husband who loved his queen so dearly that he never took in any mistresses or concubines.

    But now, that image he had of his father was not only dented, but it cracked. The cracks continued to crawl until that dignified image he had of his father shattered into many pieces.

    "Don''t you love Mother? How can you say what you were doing was only natural?" the young man blurted out something he didn''t even think of. "Iбн do not understand."

    "Son бк"

    "Stop." The young man''s eyes swirled with equal dismay and disgust. He shook his head mildly, keeping his eyes on his father. "It is foolish of me to even ask more since no matter what you say, I wouldn''t understand you, Father. You are the one who taught me the concept of love and family, yet you are just like the rest of the noblemen in this country."

    "Men who showed a dignified front but fool around their wife''s back бк sometimes, even in front of their wives. I am disappointed, Father."

    "Davien."

    "You broke your promise to Mother." The young man, Davien, continued. "I may not understand her reason for suggesting such a thing, but you promised not to let your children know about this little secret. Yet, here we are, talking about your indulgence in debauchery."

    Davien took a deep breath and breathed it out through his mouth. "I am disappointed in you. I don''t even know where to start." He took a step forward, his eyes were sharp.

    "However, no matter how disappointed and repelled I am feeling right now, I want you to make a promise," he added solemnly, grinding his teeth. "This time, even if it cost you your life, don''t make the same mistake again, Father."

    "I am begging youбн don''t let my sisters know what kind of man you truly are. Keep the facade until the day you die. Don''t disappoint them, just like how you disappointed me," he added, his helplessness and anger colliding. "This would hurt them a thousand times, Father."

    The father and son stared at each other in silence. Davien didn''t say anything after hisst remarks, and then another minute had passed, and he turned on his heel to walk away.

    Both of them wanted to say more, but there was nothing to say, as it would only make the situation worse. The man wouldn''t change the truth, and the young man would only get hurt more and more. Therefore, the man, the king of Rikhill, could only stand motionless in the same spot as he watched his son, the crown prince, leave him all alone.

    They were never the same after that night.

 Chapter 840 Dreams Or Memories?

    Davien ran through the hallway of the pce. It was especially quiet tonight, hearing his racing heart that synced with his hurried footsteps. He didn''t know where he was going or how far he had gone from the king''s pce. All he knew was he was running away, feeling stuffy as the memories of his father''s indecency shed in his head over and over.

    The man who was kissing and holding another womanбн Davien couldn''t believe that man was his father. How could his father do that? Even if his mother was the person who suggested it, he shouldn''t have listened to her.

    His father imed that his mother was the love of his life. The only woman he would ever love. How could he say all those with such a loving face, when he was fooling with another woman?

    Davien couldn''t understand nor did he want to understand. For him, it was just wrong. Now, he couldn''t stop questioning everything about the man he looked up to all his life. Was his father just deceiving them? Did he love his children just as he imed? Or was treating them kindly as his only way to quench his guilt?

    What else wasn''t the truth?

    His heart felt heavy until his every breath felt as though his lungs were being stabbed. His eyes started to shake and the coldness that seeped deep into his bones brought buckets of sweat to his back and forehead. He felt nauseous.

    ''Someoneбн'' he called in his heart, eyes on the empty and dark hallway ahead. ''... why is no oneбн''

    His mind trailed off as the door on the side ahead opened. When he saw the personing out of the door, his steps hastened. When he was near, the youngdying out of the room turned her head in his direction.

    Although he couldn''t see her face clearly because of the dark and his current state of mind, he instantly recognized her. Davien skidded to a stop as he had gotten closer until he was two steps from the youngdy.

    "Davienбн?" called the woman with a questioning tone. Her voice was young and soothing and beautiful. "What are you бк"

    Her sentence stopped as he lurched forward, embracing her as if he found his lifeline. The youngdy''s eyes widened in surprise, but she didn''t push him away. She could feel the vibration of his body against hers, causing deep lines in between her brows. Yet, instead of asking, she slowly raised her hands on his back to pat it. The moment she felt how damped his back upon her touch, she nced at him.

    "Hahбн" Davien let out a deep breath, almost catching up to his breathing.

    "Did you have a bad dream?" she asked after minutes of silence, patting his back mildly and continuously. "ric would always sneak inside my room every time she has a bad dream. Are you having bad dreams now too?"

    Davien took a moment before he said, "yes."

    "I guess it''s that bad, huh?" Aries sighed. "You have too much pride toe running to my room, terrified."

    Davien''s eyes softened, tightening his embrace but took in mind to not suffocate her. Embracing her like this made him realize he should get himself together. After all, among the king''s children, the one who loved and looked up to him the most was Aries.

    Aries was a little boyish, but she often said if she was going to marry, it would be either Davien or someone who would treat and cherish her like their father. The man she wanted to marry was someone like their father. Just how disappointed and hurt would she feel if she ever found out that the father they looked up to had another side of him? A side that would change everything about their father?

    Davien didn''t want to hurt her like that.

    "It''s alright," she reassured. "You''ll be alright. It''s just a dream, Davien. It won''t hurt you."

    If only she knewбн how much he wished it was just a dream.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Davien remained silent, allowing her to pat his back in a patterned manner. It took some time to calm himself down, but she was patient. Instead, she kept quiet but made him feel her presence. He closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. When he reopened his eyes, the corner of his lips curled up into a subtle smile.

    Davien carefully released her from his embrace while taking two steps back. His eyes gazed at her long skirt and slowly made his way up to meet her eyes. It was dark, but the moonlight that was filtering through the window shone on her temple.

    All he could see was the side of her face, but his eyes were fixed on those warm eyes that were looking back at him. The corner of her lips curled up into a subtle smile, and his heartfelt reassured.

    "I will protect you," he whispered out of nowhere, making her brows raise. "I will protect you with all my life, Aime. Do you trust me?"

    *

    *

    *

    "Dead."

    Aries''s cold voice brought Miguel back from his trance. He blinked ever so tenderly, gazing at the person standing in front of him. She was holding the wooden sword with its tip pointing at his throat.

    "Am I that unworthy as an opponent that you dare let your mind drift elsewhere?" she asked coldly before retrieving the sword from his throat. "Shall we use real swords instead of wooden ones just to keep us focused?"

    Miguel gazed at her quietly, staring at her face which reminded him of the recurring dreams he had been having for years. In those dreams, there was this youngdy he would always talk to. Sometimes, the dreams were happy. There were moments that it was sad or just fun. But each of them, that youngdy was always present.

    The problem was, he couldn''t remember her face. No matter how he tried to, he just couldn''t remember what she looks like. But in his heart, he was convinced she was important to him. He couldn''t even understand why he felt that way, but he couldn''t mistake that feeling.

    However, now that he was under the queen''s gaze, he couldn''t stop himself from having this sense of familiarity.

    "Youбн" Miguel took a step forward but paused when she raised a brow.

    "What?" Aries inquired, cocking her head to the side. "Is there something wrong?"

    His heart clenched slightly as her gaze felt familiar but at the same time, the coldnessced in it wasn''t. Miguel smiled and sighed.

    "Nothing." He shook his head, rxing his tense shoulders. "I just have a lot of things on my mind. Forgive me for zoning out, Your Majesty."

    Aries didn''t answer immediately as she assessed him from head to toe. "Don''t make the same mistake." She nced to the side where a knight was standing on standby.

    "Change these with the real ones. I want the sharpest ones," she ordered, throwing the wooden sword in the knight''s direction. She then faced Miguel squarely. "Keep your mind with me or I''ll make your head roll somewhere else." z

 Chapter 841 A Pair

    The sound of metal shing resonated in the vast training ground in the queen''s pce. Aries and Miguel exchanged blows, keeping their focus on each other since the weapons they were using were the real ones. Aries wasn''t afraid that her head would fall off if she allowed herself to zone out, but Miguel was certain he wouldn''t just get a graze if he didn''t give her his full attention.

    Swoosh!

    The sound of metal stopped as Aries froze, chin up, with a sword tip pointing at her throat. She kept her eyes on the man before her, showing no sign of fear.

    Miguel assessed the Queen''s face, and he knew she was someone who was never fazed by a sword. He had been sparring with her, and even though this was the first time they used real swords, her performance and diligence in every session were the same.

    "I guess that''s it for today," he said, retrieving his sword from her throat. "It was fun. Thank you for your time, Your Majesty."

    Miguel beckoned a neck bow, smiling. But before he could raise his head, his brows rose. He slowly raised his head, only to see Aries still standing in the same spot. She would usually just leave without saying anything or giving him a date for their next sparring session.

    "The teas from the Maganti Empire arrivedst night. Join me for a cup of tea." Her voice was still distant like usual, but it still surprised him. "Let''s go."

    Miguel watched her turn on her heel, sauntering off. Her steps were still the same, unfaltering, but this time, she looked back after seven steps.

    "What are you waiting for?" she asked coldly. "Do not make the Queen ask you the second time. There wouldn''t be a third time if you do."

    "Ahбн yes." Miguel smiled, snapping out of his trance.

    With that being said, Miguel followed the Queen, keeping a three-step distance from her. As they headed to the queen''s pavilion, his eyes were fixed on her back. Her silver hair was tied up, moving sideways at her every step. He would catch a glimpse of her slender neck that was covered by a thinyer of sweat from their training.

    Assessing her from behind, Miguel only realized how small and thin the queen was. If there was another person behind him, they wouldn''t even notice that the queen was walking ahead of him. Yet, despite that realization, Aries still felt big for him.

    Her personality wasn''t small for sure, and she could be very intimidating.

    ''No wonder she intimidated them,'' he told himself, frowning as he recalled a conversation he had with his father and Giselle. ''A person who might destroy the maindбн do you truly n to destroy thisnd, Your Majesty?''

    Miguel kept wondering about things, and his mind kept drifting further and further away. He was so upied with these thoughts that he didn''t realize they reach the queen''s pavilion until she stopped. When he raised his gaze, he caught her looking back at him.

    Aries didn''t say anything again and simply looked at him.

    He didn''t know what that look meant, watching her peel her eyes off him. Aries resumed her steps, heading to the pavilion while he followed. There were a few servants who weed the queen at the entrance. Among the servants was the queen''s most trusted chambein, Gustav.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Aries didn''t say anything back to the greeting, walking straight to the table and chairs in the center of the pavilion. When she sat down, she lifted her eyes to the side where Miguel was standing still.

    "Sit down." She cocked her head to the chair across from her.

    Miguel rocked his head and whispered, "yes. It''s an honor, Your Majesty."

    With that being said, Miguel sat down on the chair across from her. Silence reigned over them for minutes, watching Gustav serve them snacks to quench their hunger from the training, and then prepared a set of tea which he left sitting on the trolley tray.

    "Thank you, Gustav." Aries shed Gustav a short smile. "You may now go."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Gustav bowed politely, only to furrow his brows when she told him to take the servants with him. He raised his head, confused. "Your Majesty?"

    "I''m afraid Lord Miguel is ufortable with other people''s presence," exined Aries, seeing the confusion in Gustav''s eyes. "Do not worry about me. Lord Miguel wouldn''t kill me."

    "That''s not what I am worried about, Your Majesty, but I''ll take the servants with me. May you enjoy your time." Gustav bowed once again, but this time, he didn''t idle as he walked away without serving the tea.

    Meanwhile, Miguel watched Gustav leave the pavilion. Thetter paused in front of the servants on standby outside, and when he walked away, the servants followed him. Even a few marshalls around fled the ce, and soon enough, there were only two people in the pavilion.

    He snapped his eyes when he caught Aries standing from the corner of his eye. Shifting his eyes to her, Aries approached the trolley tray.

    "After bing the queen of the maind, eyes were always on me. It was suffocating." Aries spoke as if she already guessed the question he had in his head. "Telling my people to get out of my vicinity makes it easier to discern whose eyes remained. It''s easier to count that way."

    She didn''t say it directly, but Miguel was quick enough to grasp what she truly meant by that. Aries was aware she was being spied on, but her calm mien made him realize she was used to it.

    "How many eyes are on you now?" he blurted out quietly, keeping her eyes on her as she worked on the tea ced on the trolley tray.

    She didn''t answer immediately, taking her time as she ced the tea sets on another tray. When she picked up the tray and faced him, her lips curled up subtly.

    "A pair."

 Chapter 842 The Ghost Of The Bitter Past

    "A pair."

    Aries smiled subtly, sporting a meaningful look. She took a step, cing the tray on the table, knowing his eyes were fixed on her side profile.

    "Though I am not pleased, I had epted long ago that I could never stop people from watching my every step," she continued, picking up the teapot delicately to fill an empty cup with some tea. "There was a way, obviously, but those options were quite dreadful. I''d rather have a pair of eyes on me than fall into the pits of hell where I think I belong."

    Aries picked up the saucer that had a cup on it and slid it in front of him. "Only death can stop them, which brings up the question, whose death?"

    Aries smiled upon saying her piece, filling another empty cup from the same teapot. This time, she carried the cup to her seat, where she sat down.

    "Please, my Lord." She raised a hand, gesturing for him to take a sip. "It''s not poison."

    Miguel kept his eyes on the woman across from him, wondering what was going on in her head at the moment. He had met a lot of people of different types, but he was most intrigued by the queen. She smelled dangerous, but at the same time, he couldn''t just sense what his father or the night council sensed from her.

    "Poison never crossed my mind. I don''t mean to gloat, but poison is thest thing that can kill a Rothschild," he exined while picking up the teacup in front of him. "It is my honor to drink this tea served by Her Majesty."

    Miguel spoke of all the right things to be uttered to the queen''s ''generosity'' before taking a sip. Deep lines immediately appeared in between his brows the moment the vor of the tea exploded in his mouth. To get more distinction of taste, he gulped another mouthful.

    Little did he know, Aries was observing him from the moment he picked up the teacup until now. She blinked ever so slowly, reaching for the teacup in front of her.

    "During the summit, I requested the emperor of the Maganti Empire to bring me tea, since they make the best tea," exined Aries as she slowly guided the teacup to her lips. "Back then, the country that was known to produce the rarest and the best tea was thend of Rikhill. But now, Rikhill had be an official state of the empire and thus, the Maganti now holds the title."

    Miguel slowly looked back at her, only to see her enjoying the tea. "Thend of Rikhill?" бк it sounded familiar to him, even though he was certain this was the first time he had heard of it.

    The world outside the maind was bigger than a person from the maind could imagine. Thus, even though Miguel went on an expedition for years, he was aware that those meager years weren''t enough to travel the world.

    "Thend of greenбн" Aries licked her lips, cing the teacup back on the saucer before she lifted her eyes to him. "... is where thend I was born and raised. Thend where I lost everything."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Iбн see." Miguel rocked his head in understanding, telling himself the familiarity he felt upon hearing the country''s name was because of the whispering walls of the royal pce. He knew somewhere along the lines he probably heard thend of Rikhill in passing.

    Aries was the queen, after all. A controversial at that. She was an outsider whom thete king took in, and because of protocol, she was now a sovereign after the king''s death. A good deal ofmon information about her was no secret to everyone; her life and background were supposed to be public information.

    "How do you like the tea?" she asked, changing the subject, which somehow still connected to the previous discussion.

    "It was phenomenal," said Miguel honestly. "To be truthful, I prefer to drink coffee than tea. But this one, it tastes like one but not at the same time."

    "Because I like tea. Though I enjoy coffee from time to time."

    His brows rose, making her let out a quiet chuckle.

    "I just thought you might like the taste of coffee, so I sort of experiment. It''s been a while since I did it. Thest time was a few years back." She kept the short smile. "I was better at making them back then. I didn''t think I would ever try it again since the taste only reminds me of a bitter pastбн much bitter than this tea."

    "Your Majesty seems to like this person very much," he pointed out, watching her quirk a brow. "I do not want to be rude, but you seemed truly sad while talking about it. I must admit I was quite surprised, but then again, you are only cold to me and everyone on the maind except your people and your brother."

    He took a deliberate pause, recalling Aries and Dexter''s interaction. "You were warm."

    "You''re correct. I like this person very much I would cut my own limb if he needs it," she confessed, peeling her eyes away from him to the flowers surrounding the pavilion. "A limb or two or even my life will not suffice to repay everything he had done for me."

    "I guess Marquess Grimsbanne is truly lucky to have you. I heard some rumors, and though I haven''t met the man in the flesh, I''m intrigued by what sort of person he was."

    "Abel isn''t that kind," she replied quietly, blinking ever so slowly. "He would never ask for a limb or two or for me to sacrifice my own life for him. He''s a cruel man. Instead of death, he''d ask me to live. He''ll revive me over and over, even if living means hell."

    Aries slowly set her eyes back on him, and her face softened. "And I''m insane to fall for such a man. I could imagine my brother jumping from heaven just to go back into this hell to nag me."

 Chapter 843 Foolish

    "I''m insane to fall for such a man. I could imagine my brother jumping from heaven just to go back into this hell to nag me."

    Miguel and Aries stared at each other in silence after her remarks. His first guess was wrong, but he didn''t dwell on it. Rather, he felt an inexplicable emotion Miguel couldn''t even describe after hearing how insane her lover was.

    "He probably cherishes you dearly." He broke the silence after a moment. "Your brother, I mean. For you to think he would jump from heaven just to scold you for fancying such a cruel man, I assume you had a great rtionship with him."

    "We do." Aries smiled, reaching for the teacup. "Which sometimes makes me wish we didn''t."

    "And why is that?"

    Aries took a sip, licking her lips as she ced down the cup of tea. She slowly raised her eyes back to him, smiling subtly.

    "Because if we had a terrible rtionship, I wouldn''t lose them. Or get shaken when a sliver of hope peeked through the thick clouds, telling me I might meet them someday." Her tone was warm, very unlike the mood she would usually share with him. "Have you ever wished someone you cherish was just an awful person, my lord?"

    "No." His answer was quick, shaking his head mildly. "I didn''t need to make such a wish, since that''s already my reality."

    "You answer so quickly. It makes me think that''s the truth."

    "Believe me or not, Your Majesty. That''s the truth and the reality I am living."

    "And you are fine telling me this?" she tilted her head to the side. "You and Iбн aren''t on the same side and we will never be on the same side. Aren''t you afraid I''d use this information to get the upper hand? You don''t know me, my Lord."

    "I should ask the same question, Your Majesty." Miguel returned. "Are you sure you should be telling me what you could do instead of keeping it to yourself?"

    "I never needed to hide. As I''ve mentioned, all eyes were on me since the moment I stepped foot on thisnd. There was no hiding." Aries shed him a short smile. "There was nothing I could hide from all the prying eyes that watched me every second of every day. All I can do was scheme something that they couldn''t stop even if they knew about it."

    "Bold, I must say."

    "There''s no any other way." She shrugged.

    "Wellбн" Miguel cleared his throat, bending over to pick up the teacup. He took his time to respond as he gave himself a moment to enjoy the tea served by Her Majesty. When Miguel put down the cup, his expression turned solemn while facing her squarely.

    "They want me to keep an eye on Your Majesty," he confessed without a second hesitation, eyes locked with hers. "They thought how I became your sword instructor was because of my own efforts, though I didn''t correct them, for there was no reason to argue. I was told Your Majesty is nning for the fall of the Maind, and I should keep an eye on you. Although they didn''t ask for anything else, they only said that I should decide on my own whether or not to stop you from doing the worse."

    Her brows rose slightly. "My intention of inviting you is not to gain a confession."

    "I am aware, but I still want toe clean."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "And why is that?"

    "Because I want to believe in you." Aries sped her skirt after his answer, keeping her eyes on Miguel, who was looking back at her sincerely. "I might''ve missed bits of information, but I believe I can see the overall scheme here."

    "The people in the Maind should''ve just continued living the way we used to be; in this istednd, away from the rest of the world. However, greed was a dangerous thing." Miguel peeled his eyes away from her, setting his gaze on the flowers around the pavilion. "Greed killed thete king and stirred the lives of many people. Forgive me if this may offend you, but you are the perfect example of how greed ruined people."

    He cast his eyes back to her. "Youбн are an outsider. You are someone who shouldn''t have known of the maind or is associated with it in any way. But here you are. Not only you were dragged into thisnd, but you sat on the highest seat only one person can have in thisnd."

    "Iбн am astonished at the fact you imed the throne, but what makes me even more appalled is that you didn''t even want it," he continued. "They left you with no choice but to be the center of it all."

    "I''m not saying I am on your side, but rather, I fully understand the situation, Your Majesty." Miguel leaned forward while still holding her gaze, hoping she would see her sincerity. "The reason I am saying all this is that I want to beg for a chance. Give me some time to settle this matter on my own, and I will assure you this will not be your problem anymore."

    "What makes you think you can do anything alone, my lord?"

    "It may sound foolish and impossible, but I believe a sincere heart could move even a riveted mountain."

    Aries kept quiet as she was almost rendered speechless by what she heard. It didn''t just sound foolish; it was foolish.

    "I''m neither on anyone''s side. All I care about is thisnd," he added from the bottom of his heart. "If the tension between the queen and the nobles continued, I''m afraid of the worst. That what why I want to cease this tension even before it reaches its peak. Give me a chance, Your Majesty."

    Miguel drew a deep breath before he continued. "If all else failsбн then I''d be the first to wield my sword to protect the queen. After all, I am a knight who pledged to stand beside the sovereign бк whoever it is бк blindly."

    "Pleaseбн give me some time, Your Majesty."

    There was a moment of silence between them as Aries studied his face. There was nothing but sincerity in his eyes. She had met people of different types and sses, and she could always tell if someone was sincere or not.

    "Youбн" her grip on her skirt under the table loosened. "... are not only foolish but idealistic. Sincerity? Chance? Do you have any idea how many chances I had given? Countless. And I bled each time."

    Miguel''s heart sank at her adamant response, but then his brows rose at what he had heard the next second.

    "Everything you uttered angers me you do not have any idea, but sбн I hope you quench the tension before it reaches its peak," she continued, rxing her tensed shoulders. "I''m not saying I''d stop all my ns. My n will continue and it will not stop for anyone, my lord. I will dere war on anyone who will stand in my way to regain the life they had stolen from me. However, if you seed and persuade all those pests to retreat, I will leave this ce quietly."

    Aries raised her chin. "Don''t put your hopes up, Miguel. You''ll only get hurt when you realize the ones you spoke of are words only fools utter."

 Chapter 844 YouтАЩd Be Disappointed

    [ FLASHBACK ]

    "He asked my hand for marriageбн." Aries''s voice shook, turning her head in her brother''s direction. Davien was standing in front of the window with his back facing her while sitting on the divan in the prince''s pce sitting room.

    Aries stood from her seat. "Despite my refusal, he still went to Father to ask for his permission. Davien, I refuse this proposal."

    "I know." Davien slowly turned around to face his sister. As soon as his eyes met hers, all he saw was the desperation and hopelessness in her eyes.

    He walked towards her and stopped when he stood in front of her. Davien ced his hands on her shoulders, squeezing them mildly.

    "I know," he repeated under his breath. "epting his proposal means you have to give up the title of the crown princess orбн we have to let the Maganti Empire absorb the Kingdom of Rikhill. It''s a tough decision, considering the military power and influence of the empire''s crown prince."

    Her lips parted as her brows rose, waiting for what he would say next. But Davien didn''t say anything anymore; rather, he couldn''t say anything with certainty to reassure her. This was a problem бк a huge one.

    Turning down the offer of Joaquin Imperial would only lead to one thing, and that was the worse. However, epting his offer wasn''t any better. Unless Aries would give up her new title or the king of Rikhill would give Aries up. In that way, the kingdom and the empire would be allies instead of the empire conquering this small nation.

    Seeing the conflict pooling in his eyes, Aries''s heart sank. Of course, she knew what was going through his head. She wasn''t so oblivious to political affairs. She bit her inner lower lip until the tang of iron filled her mouth.

    "It''s fine," she breathed out, forcing a smile on her face. "It''s fine, Davien. If there''s nothing we could do, then I''d forgo the title and be hisбн mistress."

    "Aime." His eyes lit up as his grip on her shoulder tightened, shaking his head. "No. Don''t do that."

    "What else can we do, Davien?" Aries pped his hands away from her shoulder while keeping her eyes on him. "I hate it as much as you do, but we are talking about the Maganti Empire here. Resisting them will not benefit us. If anything, we are only giving them enough reason for their soldiers to march in thisnd."

    "Aime, can you hear yourself?" Davien argued, grinding his teeth. "If you think women in this kingdom weren''t given equal opportunities as men, the empire is way worse. You won''t be treated as a human being."

    "Then what do you want me to do? Turn a blind eye and wait for the worse?" Aries shook her head. "I can''t do that to our people, Davien. I do not want to watch them ughter my people."

    "Aime." Davien took arge step, holding her by the shoulder. "Let me handle it."

    "No."

    "Aries Aime Heathcliffe!" His grip tightened as his voice thundered, taking her by surprise as this was the first time he called her with such a strong tone. "Don''t you trust me anymore because I lost to you?"

    Her breath hitched at his abrupt question, eyes shaking.

    "Aries, Iбн you don''t have to make this sacrifice." His voice calmed down a bit, but his eyes were still fiery. "Please, just this once. Trust me."

    Aries''s face crumpled, holding her brother''s gaze. Her brave front slowly crumbled down, reaching into his clothes to keep herself from falling.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I''m scaredбн Davien." Her lips quivered, expressing her honest heart.

    "I know." His heart sank, seeing theyer of tears illuminating her eyes. Davien sighed, pulling her into his embrace. "I know, and I won''t deny that this scares me as well."

    He patted her back gently to soothe her trembling body. "Butбн give me some time. Give me a chance, Aries. I will settle this matter."

    Aries whimpered, keeping her mouth shut to muffle her cry. When another minute had passed, she gazed up at him, teary-eyed.

    "What will you do?" she asked with a shaking voice. "How will you settle this matter, Davien? I don''t think they will listen to us."

    Davien sported a reassuring smile. "I believe we can resolve anything with a rational discussion. We will negotiate; the Land of Rikhill had been relying on trades, and thus, we know how to negotiate."

    "I believe if we''re sincere enough, it could even move the immovable mountain," he continued, drawing back to have a better look at her. "Do you trust me?"

    Trustбн wasn''t the issue, was what Aries wanted to tell him, but she couldn''t bring herself to say it. In the end, Aries could only nod at him since she trusted Davien. But then she clutched his arm and squeezed it.

    "If all things fail, just tell Father to give up on me бк"

    "If all things fail, I''d stay by your side." He cut her off with a reassuring smile, holding her hand. "Don''t think too much about it and allow me to do this as myst task as the crown prince and as your big brother."

    "Your happiness is more important to me." He cupped her face, brushing her cheek with his thumb. "Give me some timeбн and I''d bring the good news."

    *

    *

    *

    [ PRESENT TIME ]

    Aries was dipped in the tub, looking at the wall with nk eyes. Miguel''s words reminded her of Davien''s remarks before the fall of the Kingdom of Rikhill. When the negotiation failed with the Maganti Empire, Aries requested an audience with the king, only to be weed by all the ministers and Davien.

    They were all optimistic, telling her they were ready to fight the empire to protect the crown princess. Back then, Aries was moved by their enthusiasm and sincerity. She was optimistic. But nowбн

    "Sincerityбн isn''t enough to move the mountains," she whispered as a tear rolled down her cheek, recalling the sincerity and optimism in Miguel''s eyes earlier today. "We learned that the hard way, Davien. You''re foolish to believe it will move me."

    When Aries blinked, a mirage of the young Davien was dipped in the same tub opposite her. "I hope you listened to me this time. I am not the sameбн don''t put too much faith in me. You''d be disappointed, Davien."

 Chapter 845 Stuck In A Quiet Hurricane

    Weeksterбн

    Aries was sitting on the pew in the only chapel in the capital with a veil on top of her head. The chapel was slightly dim, with only the lighting through the stained ss window as its source. Her eyes were fixed on the cross behind the altar. She kept her gaze on it even when she saw someone sitting on the same pew from her peripheral.

    "Strange." She broke the silence with her quiet voice. "When I first came to thisnd and saw this chapel, I thought how interesting. I never imagined that a house of God would be in thend of vampires."

    "God''s mercy isn''t only limited to humans, Your Majesty. Even the race that others deem as the spawn of evil deserves mercy and His grace." the man''s voice sounded kind and considerate. "King Maximus III also thought the same. Thus, he allowed the establishment of the church. His participation in the sermons encouraged others to attend the mass. Some were to get on his good side; others first had the same intention until they truly epted the holiness of the One."

    The corner of Aries curled up into a smirk, turning her head to the side. There, on the other end of the pew, was a man in his clerical attire. He slowly faced her, offering a short smile.

    "I am d Your Majesty came today. I hoped the sacred light of the divinity will protect Your Majesty," he added politely.

    "How kind of you to bless a person like me?"

    "You are the sovereign of thisnd. The church only wishes the person sitting on the throne divine blessing so they could lead thisnd in peace."

    Aries assessed the middle-aged man briefly before peeling her eyes away from him. She set her eyes back on the cross behind the altar, lifting her chin.

    "Was God that merciful, Your Holiness?" she inquired, her unsmiling countenance not changing.

    "Of course."

    "Does he forgive everyone''s sin?"

    "If you confess your sins, He is always eager to forgive. Repentance might be a difficult process, but I believe everyone will be forgiven for as long as it was genuine," said the Bishop. "We are all equal in the eyes of the One true God, who loved us unconditionally."

    "I seeбн" Aries rocked her head in understanding before her lips parted again. "... so that''s the only thing he does?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Forgive his children." Her eyelids drooped ever so slowly. "If his children were dying, crying, begging for His help, he would turn a blind eye to it. He will let his beloved children put matters in their hands, and then wait for them toe to him to ask for forgiveness."

    "Your Majesty бк"

    "I used to believe in the divinity. My father was a firm devotee and every household in thend of green had a deep connection to that they believed." She cut him off with the continuation of her story. "But even when they cried as our enemy ughtered them one by one, no one came to rescue them."

    Aries slowly set her eyes on the Bishop once again. "Don''t get me wrong, Your Holiness. I''m not ming the divine; all I am saying is that I had an enlightenment that He will listen to your repentance, but his ears were closed when it was a cry for help. I don''t me him for what happened on my soil."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I am relieved, though." Her lips curled up into a subtle smile. "That I would be forgiven when the timeesбн because right now, I can''t do that."

    "Your Majesty, I understand your sentiments." The Bishop let out a shallow breath. "However, peacees when one is willing."

    "The maind was never at war with anyone. Thus, Your Holiness had no idea that sometimes opening your heart for peace will lead you to your demise." Aries slowly raised her hands, linking them as she closed her eyes, praying. "I do not me you for looking at the brighter side of life. I understand that your perspective differs from mine, which holds the weight of your truth."

    There was a moment of silence after Aries'' remarks, keeping her praying stance while the Bishop was staring at her. Thetter slowly set his worried gaze on the cross behind the altar, pressing his lips into a thin line that made the visible wrinkles on his face deepen.

    After some time, Aries slowly opened her eyes. She lifted her gaze to the cross as she slowly lowered her linked hands.

    "Do you know what I prayed for, Your Holiness?" she broke the silence. "Nothing. I tried, but nothing came to mind. However, I did realize I have a lot of things to tell the one who resides behind the pearly gates."

    "May your decision lead you to an oue Your Majesty will not regret," said the Bishop a secondter, looking back at Aries with genuine worry in his eyes. "Your Majesty, regardless of anything, you are still the sovereign of thisnd, and the church will support you. I believe you are here for a reason. Whatever it was, may you fulfill that purpose."

    "I appreciate your kind words and your undying support since my coronation, Your Holiness. I say this from the bottom of my heart, so you have my gratitudeбн" Aries took a deliberate pause, smiling obscurely. "... and I''m sorry."

    The Bishop didn''t know the reason for that apology, but he didn''t dwell on it. He tilted his head down, and after a moment, assisted the queen to leave the church. As soon as he opened the church doors, a few carriages and knights were standing outside.

    "Leading and is not easy. If you need sce, the church''s doors are always open for Your Majesty," said the Bishop, facing the queen as they stood in the church''s portico. "The church is honored to be graced with your presence."

    "I appreciate the offer, but I''d rather have you open the church doors for anyone who needs divine guidance." Aries smiled. "I won''t be able to visit for a while, Your Holiness."

    "I understand. May the Light keep you from harm in your journey."

    "And may the light continue to use you to spread the word." Aries nodded before a figure stood from her peripheral.

    "Your Majesty." She turned her head, only to meet Gustav''s eyes and his open palm.

    "I''ll be on my way," she excused herself to the Bishop, sping Gustav''s hand to walk down the stairs toward the carriage.

    The Bishop stayed in the portico, watching the queen enter the carriage with the help of the Queen''s chambein. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, catching a glimpse of the side of her face through the window.

    "You''ll always be in my prayers, Your Majesty," whispered the Bishop, watching the Queen''s entourage leave. "May you realize that your purpose might not be as dark as you think it is, but rather, to be a light in thend where the sun never rises."

 Chapter 846 This World Will Change

    "Let''s visit the fort?"

    Aries''s voice pierced the silent air inside the carriage, making Suzanne, herdy-in-waiting, raise her brows.

    "Your Majesty?" Suzanne was confused. "You want to go to the fort?"

    "I might lose my mind if I keep myself inside the pce walls today." Aries moved the curtain away from the window, staring at the gloomy street of the capital. "The fort is almost the farthest from the pce and the closest to the outside world."

    Suzanne wanted to argue or remind her that there were many royal duties Aries must adhere to. Aries was the queen, after all. She couldn''t just easily leave her post anytime she pleased. The reason Aries didn''t think twice about putting the church''s visit in her schedule under the facade of praying for herte husband.

    Regardless of the grandiose title and everything that came along with it, Aries was nothing but a prisoner. A bird in an aviary; was the queen.

    "As you wish, Your Majesty." Suzanne didn''t argue, bowing as she opened the side of her window to ry the order to Gustav.

    Gustav, who was riding in a steed, gazed at the window to glimpse Aries. Seeing the queen''s unchanging side profile, he shifted his attention back to Suzanne. The two of them exchanged looks before Gustav nodded in understanding. He said nothing to her, raising his voice to the rest of the entourage, giving the orders of their change of destination.

    With that being said, Suzanne sighed once again. She closed the window, looking back at Aries.

    "If you open the window that wide, it''ll be dangerous, my queen," reminded Suzanne to her queen, even though at the back of her mind, she knew Aries didn''t need such a reminder. "We might''ve not used the royal carriage, it is still dangerous."

    "Everyone''s eyes were on me, Suzanne. Even if I didn''t use the royal carriage, they would know I am inside this carriage," Aries replied, closing the curtain slightly. "However, they don''t want me dead right now. Do you know why?"

    "Because they haven''t figured out what Grimsbanne''s n was?"

    "Exactly." Aries retrieved her hand from the curtain, already contented in the little gap between the curtain and window where she could get a glimpse of outside. "The only person keeping the Grimsbanneбн particrly, Abel, at bay, is me. I am their hostage and harming me right now wouldn''t be beneficial to them."

    Suzanne''s lips parted, but then she shut them again. She drew a deep breath, fumbling, mustering her courage to raise a question she was curious about.

    "Your Majesty, if you don''t mind, may I ask you a question?" asked Suzanne, only to hear Aries''s indifferent response.

    "You know how I hate it when you have concerns and don''t ask right away. I won''t mind since I decide to answer or not."

    "Then, why are you stopping His Majesty to take action?" Suzanne bit her inner lip, observing Aries''s reaction. When thetter didn''t react, she cleared her throat and continued. "I know letting His Majesty take matters in his hand speaks nothing but chaos. However, it is the fastest way to resolve this matter. His Majesty was strong бк the Grimsbanne n were powerful enough to triumphant in this battle."

    Aries didn''t speak immediately, keeping her gaze outside through that tiny gap. "Suzanne, how long have you been alive?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Pardon?" Suzanne furrowed her brows but still answered. "Over three decades, Your Majesty."

    "Do you know how old Abel was?"

    "Not the exact number, but I heard at least a few millennia."

    "Do you know how old Maximus was?"

    "Around the same as His Majesty бк maybe a few centuries younger."

    "With those numbers on the table, you can estimate how long our enemies existed." Aries slowly set her eyes back on Suzanne. "What I''m trying to say is that you have to put yourself in your enemy''s shoes."

    "It is true that fighting them head-on would may or may not make things easier for us. However, you have to keep in mind that these people lurking in everyone''s shadows are people who had been scheming about the downfall of the Grimsbanne n," she continued in a slow, yet clear voice. "Having an aggressive enemy is easier than standing against patient ones. Before you know it, you are already stepping into their trap voluntarily."

    "Considering the nature of the Grimsbanne, I''m certain our enemies had thought about that. Brute force isn''t the only criteria for winning the war, Suzanne," she added, stressing herst sentence. "That is why there''s a buildup of tension before a war breaks out."

    Aries took a momentary pause, looking away from her handmaiden. "When words are useless, people will talk with their weapons. Whoever the victor means they were right. Our situation here is almost the same."

    "The only difference is that peace talks were already not our option. We can only dy it to prepare and equip ourselves for an effective offense and solid defense," Aries remarked. Her tone was soft and calm, but the firmness in them was clear as day.

    "But Your Majesty, stalling time to prepare also means your enemy will have more time to ensure their ns."

    "True. Even so, we should have a concrete n instead of just relying on our strength." Aries slowly looked back at Suzanne, holding thetter''s gaze squarely. "Don''t you think?"

    Suzanne pressed her lips into a thin line, unable to look away from the queen''s gaze. Even though Aries''s eyes were slightly sharp but soft, Suzanne felt a little intimidated as if she wasn''t used to Aries until now.

    "That is correct, Your Majesty," Suzanne agreed with a nod. "They already waited this long before they made a move. That only meant they had nothing to add to their ns anymore."

    "Wrong." Aries shook her head, letting out a weak and soundless chuckle. "Forcing them to take a step back is enough to shake them. That only means their ns might not run as smoothly as they thought they would, thus, they were also being careful. It made them question the ns they concocted for centuries."

    "I n to shake them repeatedly until my husband and inws are ready. I''m telling you, Suzanne, once that happens, it''ll be an end of an era and a new beginning." A glint flickered across Aries''s eyes as her eyelids drooped. "This worldбн will change."

 Chapter 847 Bad Apple

    [ The Fort ]

    "My lord."

    Miguel heaved a sigh as he glossed his eyes over the open crates full of imported goods from anothernd.

    "Go," came out a quiet order, jerking his chin mildly.

    That said, the people who delivered the goods in the fort carried the crates to continue the proper procedure. Watching this, another sigh slipped past Miguel''s lips.

    "My lord, everyone had been unhappy with the recent inspection," said the nobleman standing beside Miguel while ncing at the area. "They think this is dying the process."

    "I know they were unhappy about it, but this is necessary." Miguel didn''t budge, catching a few displeased looks from the workers. "Having theserge-scale imports, people can easily sneak anything inside. During myst expedition, I came across thisnd gued by a deadly herb that can make one addicted to it."

    His eyes glinted as they sharpened. "The Maind may have opened its doors, but not everything or everyone cane in. After all, aside from our economy and business, we also have to keep in mind the security of thend and its people."

    "The Queen бк"

    "The queen had given me permission to inspect the fort as much as I pleased."

    "No." The nobleman beside Miguel had his eyes in a direction, wide-eyed. "That''s not what I meant."

    "Hm?" Miguel furrowed his brows, casting his colleague a look. Seeing that thetter was staring in a direction, he followed where the nobleman was looking.

    There, not far away, was a luxurious-looking carriage. One could instantly tell that a noble person was inside it. However, the person being assisted down the smalldder was none other than the sovereign of thisnd.

    "What is she doing here?" mumbled the nobleman, turning his head toward Miguel. "Are you sure you got permission from her?"

    Miguel didn''t respond, keeping his lips in a thin line. Without saying anything, Miguel marched in Aries''s direction. However, just as he approached her, knights in civilian clothes blocked his path.

    "I would like to pay respect and greet Her Majesty," said Miguel to the knights, making the people behind the knights look in their direction.

    Aries lifted her chin, releasing Gustav''s hand, who was assisting her. "Don''t be rude to His Lordship," was all she said.

    One of the knights who blocked Miguel looked back at her and nodded. He then cast his colleagues a look, stepping aside to allow Miguel to approach the queen. However, they instantly blocked the path of the nobleman following Miguel.

    "This humble subject greets Your Majesty." Miguel ced his fist across his chest, bowing.

    "Spare me the formality, Lord Miguel. Raise your head," ordered Aries which Miguel listened. "I came here after my duty to visit the church."

    The corner of her lips curled up into a kind smile as she locked eyes with him. "You can say I didn''t want to return to the pce immediately, so I came here."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Is that so?" Miguel smiled back subtly. "Though I am intrigued that of all ces Your Majesty could have gone to, you came all the way here."

    "The fort is the farthest from the capital and the closest to the outside world." She shrugged. "There were times I get homesick."

    His lips parted but then shut them again. He assessed Aries and could tell she was telling the truth.

    "Anyway, I am also intrigued that''s why I chose to visit the fort. After all, you asked for my permission to conduct an inspection." Aries looked around, observing the mood in the area. "The atmosphere feels a little off. I guess the inspection made everyone very unhappy."

    "It dyed the process, but I deem it necessary. After all, the very reason for these inspections is to make sure everything that goes in the Maind wouldn''t be our problem in the future."

    "I am aware and thus, the reason I gave you such authority." Aries smiled, nodding. "Why don''t you show me around, Lord Miguel?"

    "The pungent smell around is strong and the dirt might sully your dress and footwear."

    "I was caged in a small enclosed area like a pig in the past." Her smile stretched while her tone sounded humorous. "Trust me. I have a very strong stomach."

    Shallow lines resurfaced in between his brows at Aries''s remarks. However, he didn''t dwell on it as he nced at the people standing behind the queen.

    Seeing where his eyes shifted to, Aries nced over her shoulders.

    "Stay close. I would like to take a walk with Lord Miguel and talk to him with no disturbance," she ordered, making Gustav and Suzanne bow.

    "We''ll keep our distance, Your Majesty," Gustav expressed politely.

    Satisfied, Aries looked back at Migue. "Shall we?"

    "Yes, my Queen." Miguel took a step closer, offering his arm to her. Aries sped his arm, walking away while her people followed them but kept their distance.

    "About the inspection, so far, everything seems good." Miguel started a conversation first to avoid any awkwardnessing between them. "As you noticed, everyone was not pleased. However, I nned to continue these inspections."

    "Why?"

    "Pardon?"

    "Why are you so fixated on the goods that are entering the maind, my lord?" she rified, keeping her eyes on their path. "I am aware you are concerned that with this amount of imported goods entering ournd, the chances of sneaking illegal substances or anything of the sort are high. However, with the current system, things like that would be filtered through. They wouldn''t even leave the fort."

    Aries took a momentary pause, treading carefully. "Moreover, do you think the sovereigns that we are trading with would dare to use their chance to strengthen their rtionship with us and ruin it by sneaking something that would upset me? They wouldn''t even try sending me a rotten apple, let alone sneak in anything that might lead to their demise?" she cast him a brief look, arching her brow.

    "Don''t misunderstand. If this inspection will put your heart at ease, then I''d give you all the authority to do so. However, I think you''re having the wrong fixation," she continued, looking away from him. "You are so afraid of letting rotten things enter the maind. But I wonderбн if the thought that this bad apple was already in the maind came across your mind, corrupting everything it had contact with?"

 Chapter 848 Mining

    "You are so afraid of letting rotten things enter the maind. But I wonderбн if the thought that this bad apple was already on the maind came across your mind, corrupting everything it had contact with?"

    There was a moment of silence between Aries and Miguel, slowly stopping in their tracks. Aries snapped her eyes as she turned to face him squarely.

    "Compared to the years I existed, you had lived ten бк hundred times longer than that. However, I believe those numbers are worth nothing if we consider the years you were locked in this pce. My experience in this mere existence taught me enough lessons, Lord Miguel." She kept a subtle smile. "One of them was lessons from people бк different types of people who stepped into my life to either lift it in the dark or trample it in broad daylight."

    "Sometimes, we get fixated on a small detail, not knowing it was nothing but a small detail." She released his arm, resuming her careful steps. "That is why we stand at a distance to see the entire canvass."

    Miguel clenched his teeth, making his jaw tighten. His eyes lingered on her back, breathing out deeply.

    "Why did youe today, Your Majesty?" he blurted out, stopping her tracks. "Are you here to tell me to stop inspecting the fort and focus on something else?"

    Aries turned around ever so slowly. "No. I told you the reason."

    "About what you saidбн"

    "It''s the advice you might already know, but waiting to hear it from someone else." She shrugged and then tilted her head to the side. "Am I wrong?"

    Miguel balled his hand to his side slightly, taking a step until lessened the distance between them. When he stood before her, he looked right into her eyes.

    "I made a promise," he reminded her under his breath. "I will stop them from harming you, but at the same time, I cannot neglect the duties I have as a citizen of thisnd."

    "Foolish," she whispered, making his pupils constrict. "You want to save everyone and wish that no one will shed blood. Truly amusing, but it was foolish."

    Aries faced him squarely, raising her chin to not feel the difference in their stature. "You remind me of someone I know. He was the kindest person I had ever met in my life, but his idealistic perspective cost him his head."

    "You cannot save everyone, Lord Miguel. There will be sacrifices you must do to attain your goal бк nothing is free in this world," she continued, letting out a soundless chuckle. "The reason I am here, standing before you and in this verynd, is because I wanted something for free."

    "If not time, people will starting at you, telling you to pay the debts you don''t remember owing." Aries slowly raised her hand, fixing his brooch delicately. "Do you know why this happens?"

    Keeping her hands on the brooch, she lifted her eye at him. "Because I was focused on a small detail, not knowing that the light color I had been staring at was just a small dot in a dark canvas."

    "Take a step back." She retrieved her hands from him and then shed him a short smile. "Shall we continue? Please refrain from talking to me so formally. I do not want to dy everyone if they knew the queen is here."

    "Why are you saying all this to me?" before Aries could turn and continue their walk, these words already rolled out of Miguel''s lips. "I wonder if you are trying to confuse me or help me, Your Majesty?"

    "Think of it however you like. But if you truly want to know more, apany me for the day." Aries smiled. "Using you as an excuse will be better even if I returnedte."

    Aries cocked her head to the side, smiling. "What do you say?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Miguel clenched his teeth while holding her gaze. After a moment of nothing but silence, a deep exhale slipped past his nostrils.

    "If you take another step, you might trip," he said, marching toward her until he was standing beside her. "There''s a shallow hole in there. It''ll be embarrassing if you fall and stain yourself with mud."

    Miguel offered his arm, which made her smile.

    "Oh, my. That would be embarrassing, indeed." She sped his arm, allowing him to guide her as they continued their stroll.

    "Earlier, you mentioned being cagedбн" Miguel trailed off, peeking at her to see her reaction. "That is meant as humor, isn''t it?"

    Aries chuckled, casting him a meaningful but brief look. "What do you think?"

    "I heard you were a princess in a small kingdom before you became the empress of the empire Abel Grimsbanne was governing," he exined. "Did he hurt you?"

    "Hahaбн" Aries rocked her head, shaking her head in amusement. "So you didn''t hear the full story?"

    "Pardon?"

    "It seems Your Lordship doesn''t like digging into things unless it was necessary. I''d take it as you are not as interested in me as I thought you were."

    "Please do not misunderstand."

    "I''m jesting." Another wave of brief chuckle slipped past her lips. "Of course, you don''t know since you were on an expedition. You can only rely on the hearsay and little details your estate gives you."

    Aries smiled, gazing ahead and stopping in a spot where everyone was crossing busily while she watched them from there.

    "I heard the Rothschild n had many businesses and some of them were under your name," she said, keeping her attention on the people walking in every direction, carrying crates or packages. "One of them was the mines in the northern region. I heard you would visit the mining site several times a year. I assume you know a thing or two about mining."

    "What does that have to do with this?"

    Aries looked at him, keeping her smile. "Why don''t you use that skill, Lord Miguel?" her eyes shone faintly but alluringly.

    "Who knows?" she shrugged. "You might dig up golds. Tons and tons of them."

    Miguel fixed his eyes on her beautiful face and understood what she meant. She wanted him to investigate her to know what had yet known to him.

    "Fine." He nodded. "If you can''t say it yourself, I''ll figure it out myself."

 Chapter 849 Living Hell

    Daysterбн

    BAM!

    Miguel mmed the bottom of his fist against the desk, making everything on it ng. His breathing grew heavier, feeling his heart clench in anger. After hisst encounter with the queen in the fort, Miguel ordered his most trusted confidante to dig up the queen''s past.

    The result that came back to him was not something he had expected. The information made his entire body tremble in rage. For a righteous man such as him, what he learned about Aries would never sit still with him.

    It was true that Aries used to be a princess in the smallnd of green. She was not like any other princess for she sessfully reced the original heir to the throne, bing the crown princess. But that was when the tragedy began.

    "My experience in this mere existence taught me enough lessons, Lord Miguel. One of them was lessons from people бк different types of people who stepped into my life to either lift it in the dark or trample it in broad daylight."

    Thinking about what he had learned, those words Aries uttered just days ago made a lot of sense. Now he understood the reason the queen was like a mountain that wouldn''t budge. Peopleбн ruined her life, made her life a living hell, and even when she found sce in the darkness with a devil incarnate like Abel Grimsbanne, people were still after her.

    No matter what angle a person looked, the current sovereign of the Maind was something no one ever fathomed. Aries had nothing to do with the maind, yet, she was dragged in here by Maximus as a hostage. Looking at it from an unbiased perspective, this wouldn''t happen if Maximus didn''t step outside of the Maind and meddled with Abel Grimsbanne, implicating Aries.

    Miguel ran his hands through his hair in distress and then linked his hands before his lips. His eyes were fixed on the documents in front of him. Aside from pity, Miguel couldn''t understand the intense emotion swirling in his chest.

    "Your Majestyбн" he whispered, clenching his teeth, his eyes shining with mixed emotions.

    Silence soon descended in the room Miguel was in, staring at the document before him. He couldn''t imagine what sort of torture Aries had gone through until now. Miguel had been through an expedition and what he was certain was that reading something was far different from reality.

    Knock knock.

    His train of thought trailed off when a knock from outside caressed his ears. Miguel slowly lifted his eyes toward the shut door, waiting for the person outside to announce himself. However, the announcement didn''te as the door creaked open.

    There was only one person who would get inside his room without announcing himself, and that was none other than his father, Lord Albert.

    Out of formality, Miguel nted his hands on the surface of the desk to push himself up. "Father," he greeted. "I didn''t expect you to visit me in the middle of the night."

    "Don''t be so formal, son," said the n leader of the noble Rothschild family. "I came because I was worried about you."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Please, take a seat." Miguel politely ushered his father to the set of couches in his room. As a tradition, Lord Albert sat on the head seat while Miguel sat down on the divan.

    "We had a family dinner, and I was expecting you woulde, but you didn''t. Therefore, I was worried that you are overworking yourself again," said Lord Albert with genuine concern in his eyes. "I heard you''ve been investigating the queen. Digging up things about her can be exhausting, so do not dwell on it much."

    "What?" Miguel furrowed his brows at his father''s remarks. "Were you still keeping an eye on me?"

    "I didn''t nt any shadows in you if that is what you are asking." Lord Albert didn''t beat around the bush. "It just so happened I stumbled with it earlier today."

    Miguel frowned, knowing that wasn''t the case. "You never showed interest in things that I do in the past. Don''t you trust me anymore, my Lord?"

    "No, that''s not it. Do not misunderstand, my son. I trust you more than I trust myself." Lord Albert chuckled, shaking his head mildly. "Since you were a child, you were more mature than the children your age. Even now, you excelled among your peers, bringing honor after honor to our Rothschild family. However, some matters would still worry me as your father, Miguel."

    "Why would you get worried about me?"

    "The queen is not someone you should trust or pity," said Lord Albert, holding his son''s gaze. "She is someone who will use a person''s weakness to her advantage. She is a great maniptor, and I''m afraid she would use your kind andpassionate nature to harm you."

    Lord Albert leaned forward slightly. "You might''ve made yourself believe that I do not care about you, but that is wrong. I wouldn''t make you my heir if you were simply exceptional. I made you my heir because I trust you and I know you wouldn''t do anything to tarnish our family reputation."

    "If you care about me that much, why did you even force me to monitor the queen?" Miguel scoffed in dismay. "If you are so worried, then shouldn''t you have stopped me from approaching her? From what I remember, your orders are the opposite."

    "I know." Lord Albert frowned, leaning back against his seat while lowering his gaze. "However, I didn''t have a choice."

    "Lord Albert Rothschild didn''t have a choice?"

    "Lady Giselle gave me a tempting offer a father wouldn''t miss in the world." He slowly lifted his eyes back to Miguel once again. "If you have a little trust in me, put your faith in me for now. And listen to me when I say do not believe everything the queen tells you. She will be thisnd''s downfall."

    "And how are you certain a person like her will bring down the Maind?"

    "Have you not heard how manynds fell because of her?" returned Lord Albert, making Miguel clench his hand on hisp. "Because of her, thend of green where she came from fell into ruin. In the empire, she became a crown princess... chaos ensued, costing the deaths of many royalties and nobles. Lastly, the Haimirich Empire бк the empire Abel Grimsbanne governed. That empire was already forgotten and ruined. I won''t allow her curse existence to bring down the Maind."

 Chapter 850 Did AnyoneтАж Even Apologize To You?

    ?

    "Have you not heard how manynds fell because of her? Thend of green where she came from fell into ruin. In the empire, she became a crown princess, and chaos also ensued, costing the deaths of many royalties and nobles. Lastly, the Haimirich Empire бк the empire Abel Grimsbanne governed. That empire was already forgotten and ruined. I won''t allow her curse existence to bring down the Maind."

    It took a lifetime of self-control for Miguel to not argue with his father''s twisted perspective. He kept quiet as he listened to Lord Albert''s sermon before sending him away. Still, his father''s remarks got stuck in his head even after dayster.

    "Did you request for a private audience just to space out?" Miguel snapped out of his trance, seeing a cup of tea before him. When he slowly lifted his eyes, all he saw was the short smile dominating Aries''s face whilst sitting down across from him.

    "Apologies, Your Majesty. I have no excuse." He tilted his head down and then straightened his back. "Thank you for the tea. I am always honored."

    "So?" Aries cocked her head to the side, curious. "Cut to the chase, Lord Miguel. What is it that you want to tell me and you couldn''t wait for another day until our scheduled training?"

    Miguel breathed out while holding her gaze. "Our sparring session always ends up with Your Majesty leaving without a word or listening to a word I say. I''m afraid waiting for it will only dy the matters that had been bothering me."

    "What is it that''s bothering you?" she asked, reaching for the cup of tea to enjoy.

    "I followed your instructions." He spoke directly, watching Aries''s response to what he said.

    "And?" Her brows rose briefly, smacking her lips quietly as she put down the cup of tea. "Did you find out the answers you were looking for?"

    "Yesбн I''m afraid I also discovered more than that."

    Aries smiled subtly. "If so, why are you still here?"

    "Thend of green, the Haimirich Empire, and the Empire of Magantiбн" he trailed off, observing her reaction, which was only a simple raising of her brows.

    "What about them, Lord Miguel?" she asked when he didn''t speak after a minute. "What about my home country and that empire?"

    "That empireбн" whispered Miguel, lowering his eyes until his gaze fell on the cup of tea. His reflection was clear on the still water in the cup. "Do you n to ruin the Maind just like them?"

    Aries chuckled dryly. "n to ruin the Maind just like how I ruined my home and the empire that ruined it? Is that what you''re asking me?"

    "I did not mean to offend."

    "None was taken." Aries shook her head while Miguel slowly raised his head. "You''re not the first person who med me for the ruin of my home. I already med myself for many years, so hearing it from another person was nothing."

    "My apologies."

    "Don''t be." She kept her smile. "Why would you feel sorry for the person who might ruin thend you were born and raised as well?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Miguel clenched his hand under the table, feeling his breathing grow heavy.

    "What would you do, Lord Miguel?" Aries continued. "I ruined three nations, with two of them known as the strongest empires outside thisnd. If I managed to curse theirnd by stepping foot in it, wouldn''t it be amusing to include thend of blood on this list?"

    The corner of her lips curled up amusingly, studying his reaction. "What''s with that look, Lord Miguel? Are you disappointed to hear what you wished to not hear?"

    "If you truly n to ruin thisnd, why are you telling me? You knew that I''d do everything in my power to protect thisnd against anyone who would try to bring it down бк even if that person was the sovereign herself."

    "Because... why not?" Her smile stretched confidently until her eyes were squinting. "Whether or not I tell you, nothing will change. I think you know the reason, Lord Miguel."

    Miguel clenched his teeth as his expression turned solemn. After a moment, he lowered his head slightly while his face darkened.

    "Why are you lying?" he asked, making her brows raise.

    "What made you the impression I will lie to you?" Aries watched him raise his head again, a little taken aback at the sadness swirling in his eyes. "Lyingбн isn''t even worth an ounce of my energy."

    "So you''re just epting things the way they were?"

    "Pardon?"

    "I am not surprised if the downfall of the Maganti Empire was intentional. However, how can you ept and embrace the me for what happened to thend of Rikhill and the Haimirich Empire?" Miguel held back his emotion while keeping his trembling fist on hisp. "How was it that was your fault? You didn''t ask the crown prince of the Maganti to lead his army to thend of Rikhill and neither you urged thete king to step out of thisnd."

    His neck shrunk a little as he breathed a jagged breath. "Did anyoneбн even apologize to you?"

    Aries maintained her unfazed countenance while listening to Miguel''s remarks, staring at her reflection in the teacup.

    "Did anyoneбн apologize to me?" she repeated quietly. "Why would they?"

    "What?" Deep lines appeared between his brows while Aries lifted her gaze back to him.

    "Do you think it''s unfair, Lord Miguel?" she continued with the same calm mien. "Life is unfair; no matter how you cursed it or please it, it will always be unfair. As I''ve mentioned, there were many lessons life had taught me. I no longer try to understand why people say or do things, even if they knew it would hurt others. Neither I am waiting for people to apologize to me for ming me for things I am not responsible for."

    "I am no longer the Aries I used to be, and I don''t me anyone for it, nor do I feel sorry about it." Aries shrugged indifferently. "I will ruin thisnd just like how it ruined the peace I painstakingly built. Try as much as you can to stop me, Lord Miguel. If you do, you might just save everyone just as you wish. However, until then, I will not stop or dy my ns."

    Aries lifted her chin, keeping her cold front. "I hope you seed. I really do, Miguel."

 Chapter 851 What Should I Do?

    ?

    "I hope you seed. I really do, Miguel."

    Silence followed Aries''s remarks while holding Miguel''s gaze without the intention of looking away. The person mirroring in his pair of sad eyes bore a stony countenance, something that was entirely opposite to all the memories she had with Davien.

    In her brother''s eyes, Aries was the brightest and the warmest. However, Miguel and Davien looked exactly alike, but she had convinced herself they were not the same. She didn''t know how Miguel could share her brother''s face. However, Aries stopped trying to understand such obvious matters.

    This was the maind. The people in here would go so low just to bring her down.

    "You baffle me, Your Majesty." Miguel broke the prolonged silence with his quiet voice, still holding Aries''s empty gaze. "You tell me you will ruin thisnd, but then hope that I stop you sessfully. At one point, I thought it was because you are confident, but at another, I think otherwise. The more I think about it, the more I realize it sounds like you are asking me for help as your reality drowns."

    "And yetбн" Miguel breathed a jagged breath, loosening his tight fist on hisp. "You aren''t reaching your hand out as well. It''s like making me watch as you jump off the cliff, leaving me wondering whether I jump after you or watch you fall from there."

    His eyes shone with conflicted feelings he couldn''t even describe. "What should I do?"

    [ What should I do? ]

    Those were thest words uttered between them before silence filled in between them until Miguel excused himself.

    Aries stayed in the same spot, staring at the empty seat across from her.

    "What should you do?" she whispered, repeating his question to herself. "If I knowбн you wouldn''t have to ask."

    That was right. If Aries knew the answer, she wouldn''t have to go around in circles. After all, even if she convinced herself that Davien and Miguel were two different people, she couldn''t deny Miguel was a sincere man.

    Miguel''s sense of duty and responsibility as a citizen of the maind was genuine. It wasn''t like every single individual on the maind was evil. The maind might be known as thend of vampires, but after living in this ce for years, she came to realize one thing.

    The Maind was just like any other country.

    The only difference was that their other customs and practice might be considered inhumane and disgusting. But then again, there were those kingdoms outside where very, oppression, and cruelty were widespread; they might not drink a person''s blood, but humans were also capable ofmitting inhumane acts.

    Knock Knock!

    Aries didn''t budge even when she heard a knock outside the door.

    "Your Majesty, the youngdy of the House бк"

    "Grandmama!" Even before the person announcing the presence of the queen''s guests could finish his announcement, the door was kicked open, followed by a youthful and jolly voice.

    "Hey! You can''t just kick the door like that!"

    Aries slowly lifted her eyes toward the door, only to catch a young, chubby little girl grinning brightly at her. The corner of her lips curled up subtly.

    "Sunny." Aries waved dismissively to the knight by the door, stopping him from dragging Sunny out of the chancery. "Let her in. I was expecting her."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Sunny cast the Knight a look and then stuck her tongue out. The knight''s face turned red, but unable to do or say anything as the mischievous little girl skipped her steps inside.

    "Grandmama~!" Sunny''s sweet voice echoed in the quiet chancery while Aries flung her legs to the side. But instead of stopping in front of Aries, Sunny shamelessly climbed the queen''sp as if she didn''t care if her weight would crush Aries''s legs.

    "Sunny." Aries''s eyes softened, allowing Sunny to sit on herp. She even assisted Sunny until thetter found afortable spot on herp. "How are you, Sunny?"

    Aries cupped Sunny''s chubby cheek, smiling genuinely. "It''s been a while since Ist saw you. I''m d you came to visit."

    "Grandmama, you won''t visit Sunny. So Sunny nagged my papa to take me to the royal pce to see you!"

    "Samael?" Aries raised her brows and nced at the shut door.

    "We parted ways when we came into the royal pce." Aries looked back at Sunny as thetter exined. "He told me not to wander off as he attend the bi-annual noble meeting."

    "Oh, is that so?"

    The bi-annual noble meeting was a gathering of selected noblemen to talk about some matters in the capital. Most of its members were officials in the royal pce, but there were those exceptions like Samael.

    Aries didn''t know the details, but she heard the previous king бк the king before Maximus IV бк invited Samael to be a part of it. Samael used to be very popr on the maind with his paintings and books; his influence was a useful addition to the noble organization. They mostly focus on the matters of those in the upper echelon.

    "I seeбн so it was that time of the year." Aries nodded in understanding while stroking Sunny''s hair gently. "Sunny, I appreciate you wanting to see me. However, the royal pce is a dangerous ce. It is not like the empire where you can wander off freely."

    "I know." Sunny smiled. "But if I don''t visit my grandmama, you won''t visit me."

    "Wellбн" Aries felt conflicted, pondering on how to word her exnation. "I am in a tight position that I cannot just go anywhere on a whim."

    "Sunny already knows that. That is why I came."

    Aries''s lips parted, but she ended up pressing them into a thin line, sighing in surrender. "I''m sure your father will not take you here if he knew you''d be in danger."

    "Hehe. Even if I was, you wille for me." Sunny''s face brightened up with a smile. "Just like how you always came to rescue Sunny in the empire, I know Grandmama wille and find me if I''m in danger. So I wasn''t afraid!"

    Aries''s face softened, staring at Sunny''s carefree smile. She cupped the little girl''s soft cheek, brushing it with her thumb.

    "Thank you foring, Sunny," expressed Aries softly. "Should we take a walk in the garden?"

    "Mhm!"

    "Then, let''s go."

 Chapter 852 A Daily Reminder

    ?

    Every waking time was the start of a pour, which would eventually develop into a hurricane. And by the end of the day, Aries would mentally find herself trembling in the dark corner of her mind, hugging her legs, listening to every sound in case she had to run away.

    The darkness she was trapped in was insidious, and the anxiety she had to suppresspounded daily. It felt like this was no end; walking in circles in the middle of the storm.

    For Sunny toe to find her somehow made her feel that the thick, dark clouds in her sky showed gaps for the light to peek through. Watching her wander the garden without a care in the world, plucking out flowers mischievously, and giggling and grinning, was like a breath of fresh air.

    Aries couldn''t help but smile as she watched Sunny from the bench.

    ''All the people that surround me always carry ulterior motives; either for their own interest or to harm me,'' she thought, batting her eyshes ever so carefully. ''It was honestly exhausting.'' бк but who was she toin?

    Comining wouldn''t help. Giving up wasn''t an option either. All she could do was grit her teeth and face each and every single one of the stones thrown at her.

    "I''m really d she came," she whispered, eyes softening. "I thought I was going to crumble moments ago."

    Aries smiled broader when Sunny looked her way, waving to the little girl. Sunny wasn''t as innocent as she appeared, but it was still nice to see a child''s innocence amid the brewing tension in the royal pce.

    "There you are." Aries snapped her brows up, turning her head to the person standing beside the bench. "Greetings to Your Majesty."

    "Samael."

    Samael bowed slightly before ncing in Sunny''s direction. "Apologies if she bothered you, Your Majesty. I told her not to wander off, but she didn''t listen."

    "Do not worry about it. Sunny is not bothering me in any way," Aries returned, peeling her eyes away from him. "If anything, I would say it was the other way around."

    "Trust me. Your Majesty isn''t."

    "How kind of you." Aries chuckled and then cast him a quick look. "Would you join me for a chat?"

    "If Your Majesty asked, how dare I refuse? It''s my honor," he humored, joining her on the bench. Samael sat on the other corner of the bench, leaving an arm''s length gap between them.

    "I heard you attended the noble''s assembly," said Aries as an icebreaker.

    "Uh, yes. I was surprised when I receive an invitation. I thought they already kicked me out since I was absent for years."

    "Were they nice to you?" she asked, making Samael look at her side profile.

    "If they weren''t, will Your Majesty scold them for me?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Why not?" she smirked, casting him a knowing look. "They made me queen. I might as well take advantage of the title they gave away so easily to protect my nephew from getting bullied."

    "Haha. I didn''t know you can be funny if you want."

    "Just tell me if they were putting you in a difficult position." Aries continued, keeping her attention on Sunny. "I''ll put them in their ce."

    "Now, that is reassuring to hear. I''d be sure to use my status as the queen''s nephew if that happened." He chuckled, humoring her back.

    There was a moment of silence between them, watching Sunny fill her basket with flowers. Both of them wore subtle smiles with soft eyes while keeping their attention on the little girl.

    "Have you regretted it?" Suddenly, a question slipped past Aries''s lips.

    "Hmm?"

    "Leaving your daughter behind," she rified. "You left your daughter in thisnd, and because of some circumstances, she had to leave the maind ande to the Haimirich Empire. I don''t think I ever get to hear your thoughts about it."

    "To rify, I didn''t leave Sunny alone. I left her and my son, Law, in Tilly''s care. Tilly was the one who left Sunny behind. My wife nearly killed me. I would''ve been sleeping six feet deep if something happened to her." Samael kept a smile, recalling a memory from the past. "Though I cannot say I am not just as responsible. I''m just grateful that you took care of her."

    "Sunny is a smart and adorable child. Anyone would be fond of her in almost an instant."

    "That is why we named her Sunny." Samael grinned, turning his head in Aries''s direction. "Our life in thisnd wasn''t easy, especially carrying the name Grimsbanne. When we were expecting Sunny, our family was having a crisis. Mainly because of this blood, I''m passing it to my children. However, when Sunny came, the darkness that was slowly clouding my head suddenly cleared up."

    "It is like the first appearance of the sun after the long storm," he added, nodding at her reassuringly. "Just like the sun, she reminds me that we, too, can rise again from the darkness."

    Aries''s expression softened after listening to Samael''s short story about how he came up with his daughter''s name. Looking at him, she could tell how much he cherished his family. It might not look obvious with how he would sometimes speak and act, but there was no shadow of a doubt he was a good father.

    "Your children are lucky to have you as their father," she remarked, warranting augh from him.

    "Those little devilsбн" Samael shook his head, peeling his eyes away from her. "But you''re right. I also agree that they''re lucky to have me as their father."

    Ariesughed, looking away from him. "No wonder your firstborn was a little rebellious. He took after his fatherбн" she trailed off, furrowing her brows.

    "Where''s Sunny?" Aries''s eyes shook as she looked around, jumping from her spot in panic. Samael also hopped out off the bench, looking around to search for his daughter. But s, Sunny was nowhere in sight.

    The two of them looked at each other, wide-eyed. Their hearts thudded, and without saying a word, they parted hurriedly to search for Sunny.

 Chapter 853 Wandered Off Or Abducted?

    ?

    "Sunny!"

    Aries''s heart thumped louder and faster, shouting for Sunny''s name while searching for her in the queen''s garden. The queen''s garden was the most extensive garden not just in the pce, but also in the entire maind.

    "Sunny!" Aries shouted again, feeling her blood boil with anxiety every second.

    "Your Majesty!"

    Suddenly, Gustav''s voice reached her ears, making her turn her head in his direction. As soon as she did, all she saw were Gustav and a few knights jogging their way to her.

    "Did you find her?" asked Aries in a panic when Gustav reached her.

    "No, not yet, Your Majesty." Gustav shook his head, frowning. "However, I already deployed a search party. We will find her in no time, but you have to go back for your own safety."

    "No!" her face darkened. "I will help in searching for her. Send out more people to search every nook and cranny бк I don''t care if you have to uproot the entire garden."

    "But Your Majesty бк"

    "I brought Sunny out in this garden, and I will bring her back." This time, her tone was stern and adamant. "This is an order, Gustav. Wish that she only wandered off because god forbid if it was someone else''s doing, I don''t know what I''d do. I won''t allow them to keep crossing the line."

    Gustav''s expression turned gloomy and dark, observing how Aries''s eyes shake as the veins in her eyes turned red.

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Gustav bowed, swallowing down the argument he had as the queen''s chief chambein. "I''ll send out more knights to search for the little miss of the Grimsbanne."

    With that being said, Gustav faced the knights who came with him. "You heard Her Majesty. Send out more knights to search for the young miss. Check every inch of the garden and don''t leave any area unchecked! This is an emergency and a priority!"

    "Yes, sir!" the knights saluted Gustav and the Queen. They didn''t waste a second marching away to execute the orders.

    As the knights left, Gustav looked back at the queen once again.

    "Samael La Crox is also searching for his daughter," said Aries. "Don''t worry about me, Gustav. Execute my orders while I look for her бк I can protect myself if the situation calls it."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Gustav didn''t argue with her anymore, bowing. He cast Aries onest look before he excused himself to lead the search party.

    Aries watched Gustav''s back, balling her hands into tight fists. She ground her teeth and lifted her skirt, taking off her heels to move aroundfortably. After that, Aries ripped the hem of her dress as it was touching the ground.

    "Sunny!" when Aries was certain she could move freely, she shouted Sunny''s name once again. "Sunny!"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    She huffed heavily, looking around the hedges of flowers around. Her frustration was evident on her face before she ran, shouting Sunny''s name. As Aries got further away from the main garden, she got closer to thebyrinth.

    "Sunny!!!" Aries shouted her lungs out, going through the path. The hedges were taller than her thus, she couldn''t see past them. All she could do was raise her voice every time, hoping Sunny would answer.

    "Damn it, Sunny. Where did you wander off?" mumbled Aries, taking a pause after running around searching for Sunny. Aries didn''t want to jump to the conclusion that Sunny was lured by someone or got abducted.

    After all, if someone approached Sunny, Aries and Samael would''ve felt the person''s presence. But they didn''t feel anything of the sort. Sunny just disappeared, and she wanted to keep an optimistic mind that Sunny just wandered off.

    No matter how dangerous the pce was, it wouldn''t be easy to kill someone or abduct someone. Moreover, it was better to not jump to conclusions because if they did, forget about Aries''s wrath. Samael wouldn''t let this slide. Their enemies wouldn''t want to trigger the Grimsbanne more than they already did.

    "Sun бк" Aries nearly bit her tongue when she heard a faint rustle, turning her head to the end path of the maze. "Sunny?"

    A sliver of hope peeked through the invisible clouds over Aries''s head. Without thinking twice, Aries ran toward the end of the maze, following the rustle she heard just now.

    "Sunny?" she called once again, hearing a child''s faint giggle. "Sunny! Where are you?!"

    Aries followed the faint giggle she heard, going deeper into the maze garden until she reached the center of the maze. The center of the maze had a beautiful fountain and enough space for people to go around and have some sort of privacy.

    As soon as she reached the middle of the maze, Aries''s eyes fell on the little girl on the ground.

    "Sunny!" she didn''t have second thoughts, running toward Sunny''s unconscious body. "Sunny!"

    Aries squatted beside Sunny, cradling her in her arms. She immediately checked Sunny''s pulse, heaving a sigh of relief when she was certain little Sunny was just unconscious. She then went ahead to check if there were any wounds or anything like that.

    Even though he couldn''t smell Sunny''s blood, Aries still wanted to be reassured. Another sigh of relief slipped past her lips, holding Sunny''s body closer to her.

    "Goodness, Sunny," came out of her lips, embracing Sunny while her entire body was trembling nervously. "Why did you wander off here? I thought I was going to die of worry."

    Her grip on Sunny''s back tightened, feeling her heart race like crazy. It took some time for Aries to catch up to her breathing, calming herself down. What happened just now scared her. Aries was not scared of the dangers and thorny path she was treading. However, it was an entirely different case if children were involved.

    Sunny might not be any other children, but she was still a child. Aries wouldn''t forgive herself if something had happened to little Sunny.

    Just as Aries was calming her heart, body, and soul, and even convinced herself that Sunny simply wandered off, she heard footsteps behind her. Her body froze momentarily, wide-eyed.

    "Just nowбн I wished Sunny just wandered off." Her lips quivered, but her tensed shoulders rxed. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, but when she reopened her eyes, a glint flickered across them. "You shouldn''t have shown up."

 Chapter 854 Gratitude

    ?

    "Just nowбн I wished Sunny just wandered off. You shouldn''t have shown up."

    Aries''s eyes were sharp as her anxiety and fear disappeared without a trace. She slowly looked back, only to see a person in a cloak standing several meters from her vantage point. Aries carefully put down Sunny and then stood up, facing the person squarely with her chin held up.

    "Who are you?" Aries asked without beating around the bush, sizing up the person before her.

    The person in a cloak was around 170 centimeters tall, a little taller than Aries. Aries couldn''t tell for sure what sort of physique was the person hiding in that thick cloak, but what she was certain of was that she couldn''t smell the person.

    A person бк human or vampire бк- had different scents. As a vampire, Aries could discern the difference just by using her sense of smell. However, the person before her didn''t have any particr scent or presence.

    "She, indeed, wandered off." Aries narrowed her eyes while the lines between their brows resurfaced when the person spoke. She didn''t expect that the person was a woman. "Although I can''t particrly say willingly."

    Aries subconsciously held her breath as the person reached for her hood, putting it down ever so carefully.

    A woman with a pair of midnight blue eyes looked back at Aries. She had a slightly tanplexion and a well-defined facial structure. She was an overall beauty. But the person''s face wasn''t what truly surprised Aries, but the fact that the woman in a cloak revealed her face to Aries.

    "While this little girl was plucking out flowers, she didn''t know that one of the flowers she smelled was sprinkled with a special powder," exined the woman solemnly, keeping her gaze on Aries. "Upon smelling it, she was instantly put in a spell. And thus, she left. Where is her destination? I don''t know. But what I do know is that if I didn''t stop her, you might not have seen her. Ever."

    "Are you telling me you saved her?" the woman shrugged indifferently as an answer to Aries''s query. "Did you truly assume I would believe you?"

    "Believe me or not doesn''t matter to me, Your Majesty," said the woman. "I did what I did not because I want your gratitude or any rewards. I simply did the right thing to do because even if this child is a vessel of the devil, she is still a child. Watching her die was beyond my morals."

    Ariesughed in ridicule. "Morals?"

    "I am not like you or the La Crox-Grimsbanne n. No matter how intense the anger I carry in my chest, I will never let go of my moralsбн with all due respect." The woman smiled; her tone was calm but confident. "I''m not judging you, nor do I think I have the right to do so. After all, you have to do what you have to do; be a monster, a beast, a devil if you must, and be equal to them in every way. I respect and understand that."

    "Interesting choice of words," Aries mused, observing every slight change in the woman''s expression and movements. "Fine. Let''s say you, indeed, save this child. What do you want? I don''t believe you did it out of the goodness of your heart. There must be a catch, and I don''t have enough time to spare listening to your ttery."

    The woman smiled subtly. "Let me in."

    "Let you in? Where?"

    "In the royal pce."

    "You wanted ess to the royal pce?" <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I believe that is what I said." The smile lines on the woman''s face slowly faded. "I wanted ess to the royal pce where I can go in and out of here whenever I want."

    There was a moment of silence that descended on their shoulders. After another minute, Ariesughed out loud as the woman''s request sank in.

    "Hahaбн" Aries licked her lips, looking back at the woman with an interest in her eyes. "That is an interesting request, but I''m afraid I can''t grant you that, for obvious reasons."

    The remnants of her smile disappeared as she continued. "The pce is akin to the wild, allowing all sorts of animals to walk around. Still, it was my dwelling. I couldn''t control whoes in and out of this ce for they still have rights as contributors to thisnd. You don''t open your doors to the thief just because they asked you to, right?"

    "I figured."

    "I appreciate that you still tried," Aries smirked. "Despite knowing that showing up before me is a risk."

    "Yes, I know that," the woman admitted without a second hesitation. "Revealing my existence and face was a risk in itself."

    "If you know that, why did you still show up?" Aries cocked her head to the side. "You don''t think you''d persuade me to agree to your request, did you?"

    "I don''t. If I do, I would''ve revealed myself to you the instant I got a hold of a useful card that might change your mind." The woman maintained her mien. "As I have said, I understand and respect you and your decisions. I am aware Your Majesty is wise and thus, approaching you without a proper n may result in a terrible oue that would put me at a disadvantage."

    "If you know me that much, that means you''ve been watching my movements for quite some time now." Interest shone in Aries''s eyes, narrowing them slightly. "Let me ask you one thing first. Did you, or did you not concoct this n to meet me in this secluded ce?"

    "Will you believe my truth?"

    "Try me." Aries shrugged.

    The woman didn''t answer immediately, drawing her line into a thin line. "I did not," she confessed solemnly. "Though I had foreseen this would happen in the future."

    "To Sunny?"

    "No. To anyone close to the Queen," she rified. "I won''t deny that I had been watching you since you stepped foot in thisnd, not for the same reason as everyone who had their eyes on you and your position. But because of another reason."

    "And what is that?"

    "Gratitude." Aries''s brows slightly knitted as the woman continued, "if there was one person I could trust in thisnd, that would be the person who had saved me before I could equip myself with the proper gear to fight Giselle. That person was you."

 Chapter 855 Freefalling

    ?

    "Gratitude. If there were one person, I could trust in thisnd, that would be the person who had saved me before I could equip myself with the proper gear to fight Giselle. That person was you."

    Deep lines slowly resurfaced between Aries''s brows, looking back at the woman standing several meters before her. Confusion was evident on her face, but the person looking back at her with those beautiful pair of midnight blue orbs seemed to have to bear the truth of many gxies.

    *

    *

    *

    Two years agoбн

    "So? What do you think?"

    Aries snapped her eyes ever so tenderly, looking back at the owner of the voice. As soon as she did, all she saw was Maximus IV advancing in her direction with open arms.

    "How do you find the maind, my queen?" he asked, beside Aries and joining her on the balcony of her pce. "Was it better than the Haimirich Empire? or was it worse?"

    "You know my answer." Her voice was calm and quiet, setting her eyes on the beautiful vast garden. "The Queen''s pce reminds me of the Rose Pce. The only difference is that I can''t see the king''s pce from here."

    "Haha! Is that a bad thing, my queen?"

    "They say absence makes the heart grow fonder." Aries cast him a quick side-eye. "It''s not that bad."

    Maximus chuckled. By now, he was slowly getting used to her coldness and bantering with her. He couldn''tpletely say he appreciated it or liked it, but there were times humoring her was entertaining.

    "The Queen''s pce is designed this way, so she only sees good and nice things," he exined, motioning his hand across the vast garden full of different flowers that only grow in the royal pce. "After all, the queen''s only job is to produce children."

    Maximus took a deliberate pause, facing Aries. "As many children as she could," he stressed, making her look back at him.

    "That doesn''t apply to me, does it?" was her first question, arching her brow.

    The corner of his lips curled up into a smirk, cocking his head to the side as he turned on his heel to face her squarely.

    "I suddenly have an idea," he mused. "What if I give you a child? I wonder what would be his reaction?"

    "Don''t even think about it?"

    "Why?" his brows rose. "You were once pregnant with the man who killed your entire family. You didn''t hate the child, even though you despised Joaquin Imperial with every part of your body."

    Aries''s countenance turned icy as she slowly faced him. She lifted her chin while her eyelids drooped, yet it couldn''t conceal the malice in her eyes.

    "Try," she taunted. "Why don''t you try that idea of yours, Maximus? I''ll make you understand why I warned you not to even think about it."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Maximus and Aries stared at each other in silence for a moment. Both of them didn''t back down, even though there wasn''t any verbal exchange for minutes.

    "Haha! You can''t take a joke." After some time, Maximus raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. "I might not be the best person you''d ever meet, but I am not that low."

    Aries didn''t react strongly as she peeled her eyes off him. "It is good that I am not wrong about you."

    "What were you expecting from me?"

    "The worse."

    "Worseбн is Abel," he remarked humorously. "I am bad. Compared to him, I''d be an angel with wings."

    "You should go back to heaven then."

    "As much as I want to, I can''t, because that won''t be my destination anymore. It''s like a one-way path, my queen. Once you fall, the only way you can take it down." Maximus looked away from her, setting them on the greenery surrounding the queen''s pce. "I''m still currently free falling, and all I can expect is that once Inded, the damage will be devastating."

    "So you''re taking everyone with you on the way, huh?" Aries let out a dry chuckle. "I guess it was true that misery lovespany."

    "It does, indeed." Maximus rocked his head, sneering, casting her a look. "That is why you were with him, isn''t that right?"

    "Maybe." Aries shrugged nonchntly. "Maybe not. Who knows?"

    "Hehe." Maximus IVughed before he leaned over, resting his arms on the railings of the balcony. As the soft wind blew past his charming face, the side of his lips curled up into a smirk. "Today''s weather is great."

    Her eyshes fluttered as she nced at his back. Her countenance was still cold, but her mien was calmer.

    "What are you doing here, Your Majesty?" she asked without beating around the bush. "You didn''te here just to spend some quality time with me, did you? I''d be very disappointed if that''s the case."

    "You break my heart, my queen." Maximus IV chortled, looking back at her with mischief in his eyes. "Now, it makes me think I should onlye to see you when necessary. Can''t I see you just because I miss you?"

    "Will you seriously continue this nonsense?"

    "Well, yes, of course. You are my queen, and even if we didn''t go through a proper wedding ceremony, you are still my queen." He shrugged nonchntly. "Whether or not we like it, our rtionship has an impact on my people and thisnd. We should maintain a good rtionship."

    Her already arched brow raised even more. "You are suggesting?"

    "We should schedule some time for each other. Nothing fancy. Just a meal or a walk in the garden every once in a while." By the tone of his voice, he was just as uninterested as she was. "All the previous queens only had one job, and that was to give the king as many children as she could. But not in my era."

    He looked back at her, smirking. "You and Iбн will be different from all the previous sovereigns of thisnd. Although you still needed to die for me. But until your untimely death, let''s get along well, Aries."

 Chapter 856 Obedience Didnt Mean Lack Of Power

    ?

    Getting along well with Maximus IV meant Aries had to put up with his habitual nonsense and schemes. Working and living with him gave Aries the chance to study Maximus. To be deeply truthful, Maximus wasn''t so evil as a king. He wasn''t kind, but he was exceptional and adept at what he was doing.

    All his personality and sinful mind aside, Maximus was a genius. He wasn''t strong; even before Aries turned into a vampire, she was certain she still had a chance to win against Maximus in a duel. His only advantage was his mind. Not that he waspletely nonsense or mad; he was surprisingly bnced.

    A little bit of goodness and madness.

    "Won''t you ask where I am taking you?" Aries didn''t react to Maximus''s question, staring at the window of the carriage. "I get sad whenever you ignore me."

    "Aren''t we on the way to purge the south?" she answered, blinking ever so tenderly before setting her sharp eyes on the man sitting opposite her. "I heard witches and outsiders were now flocking the borders in the South. You opened the gates and lowered the security and now the king and his troop, along with his queen, were on their way to burn the entire ce."

    Maximus smiled. "That is ssified information. I wonder how the queen knew about that." He cocked his head to the side while Aries simply shrugged.

    "Fabian." Maximus rocked his head, guessing how Aries got her intel. "That manбн he''s always been a reliable person. Even when the Grimsbanne were still in the Forbidden Forest, that man gained my interest."

    "And to think a mere butler of the Grimsbanne already rmed you only makes me wonder where did your courage to wage war with the Grimsbannee from?"

    "I think you heard me wrong."

    "No." Aries shook her head mildly while keeping her gaze on him. "You were scared of them, Your Majesty. You were scared of them and yet you dared cross the line. I wonder why."

    Maximus smirked. "Wasn''t it obvious?"

    "I thought it was." Aries slowly set her eyes back on the window, keeping her unchanging, cold countenance. "But after months of getting along with you, I can''t help but wonder what was your real motive."

    "Haha. You have a vast imagination, my queen."

    "I wish I was." Her voice was low and quiet. "I really wish I am, Maximus."

    "And why is that?"

    "Guess."

    Maximus pressed his lips while his brows rose. However, he didn''t press on the matter and allowed silence to dominate the carriage. Meanwhile, Aries kept her eyes on the window but observed him from the corner of her eye.

    ''I wish it was just me,'' she told herself. ''Because it would be terrible if you have a different motive other than wanting to massacre the Grimsbanne n.''

    Aries and Maximus didn''t speak with each other throughout the ride for the day. The south was quite far from the capital; they would take at least two nights before reaching their destination. However, they could reach the ce if they rode horses or simply went on foot.

    Vampires were fast, but because Maximus took Aries with him, they had to slow down. She could always ride a steed, but he didn''t want to, for a reason she might run away. Both of them knew that was nonsense, knowing Aries was bound to him with a contract. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Still, Maximus had the final say and so they rode to the south for two nights, taking a rest to sleep before continuing on their journey. She could say Maximus was being considerate to her. They could always just camp, but he prepared mansions so she could rest infort.

    ****

    Two daysterбн

    "Drag them all inside!"

    Aries stood from a distance, watching the fire slowly devour the town while everyone was trying to save everything they could. Some people tried to flee the town with their children, only to realize there was no way they could save themselves.

    Royal knights surrounded the town, not allowing a single soul to step out of the burning vige.

    Even from this distance, she could hear their screams, the children''s cries, and the chaos, along with the quietughter of the fire.

    "Heh." Maximus sneered, crossing his arms under his chest. Satisfaction shone in his eyes as they mirrored the mes crawling across the town while the smoke slowly reached the sky. "This is what you do to sneaky rats who didn''t know their ce."

    Aries maintained her expression. No one could tell what she was thinking, as her countenance was just stoic. There was no sympathy or anger in her eyes, nor did she bear the same excitement and satisfaction as Maximus.

    "What do you say, my queen?" Maximus cast her a knowing look, smirking. "Were you surprised? Angry? Or saddened? You''ve been quiet and I''m intrigued. Your thoughts matter to me, after all."

    Aries didn''t answer immediately, taking her time before she cast him an indifferent look. "Why would I be surprised? Angry? Or saddened? This wasn''t the first time I''ve seen people suffer because of one person."

    "Right." He smacked his lips, nodding in agreement. "Rikhill, Maganti, and then Haimirich fell right in front of you. Are you saying you''re immune now?"

    "I''m saying I was expecting more from you, but it turns out a genius like you still ran out of ideas on how to make people suffer." Aries let out a disappointed sigh, tilting her head to the side. "However, that wasn''t the main reason I was neither surprised nor angry."

    Aries raised her chin ever so slowly. "Back then, I had no power to stop the war in mynd. Meanwhile, the fall of Joaquin Imperial was my doing and so was the situation in Haimirich."

    "Do you understand where I am going, Maximus?" she continued with genuine wonder in her voice.

    Maximus narrowed his eyes suspiciously before he turned his head back to the town, only to see the thick clouds forming over the town. In a blink of an eye, rain pour, distinguishing the fire that was mercilessly burning the town.

    "The only time I was powerless was when I was in Rikhill, Your Majesty." Her voice stole his attention, making him look back at her with a frown. "The question you should''ve asked me was not if I am surprised, angry, or sad. It should''ve been whether or not I would turn a blind eye about it."

    The side of her lips curled up, hearing thunder from a distance. Her eyes were taunting. Aries didn''t meddle because she thought that was the right thing to do, but she did it to annoy Maximus and show him she wouldn''t simply follow everything just as he pleased.

    Little did she know, among the many victims who could''ve died in the fire, was the woman standing before her two yearster.

 Chapter 857 The Center Of The Maze

    ?

    [ Present Time ]

    Sabotaging Maximus over the two years that Aries was with him became an unconscious entertainment for her. She would do it with every opportunity she could get and would do it openly, challenging the king''s authority and testing Maximus''s patience repeatedly.

    It was already Aries''s habit which she picked up from the Maganti Empire. The only difference was that her disobedience warranted heavy consequences in the Maganti Empire. Meanwhile, Maximus never hurt her physically. He would try to hurt her emotionally, but how could he hurt her when Aries already had nothing?

    The Haimirich Empire was forgotten, and Abel and everyone were forced into Maleficent''s world. Aries was forced to lock Dexter in London Leviticus''s residence; she practically had no one beside her. Thus, nothing frightened her.

    Maximus told her once that her fearlessness was a part of her charm.

    "Gratitude. If there were one person I could trust in thisnd, that would be the person who had saved me before I could equip myself with the proper gear to fight Giselle. That person was you."

    "Gratitude?" Aries let out a dry scoff, not allowing her confusion to fill her mind. "I don''t recognize such a word. Everything has a price. Nothing is ever free."

    "That is why I am here to repay you because I also believed everything has a price."

    Aries narrowed her eyes suspiciously, holding the woman''s gaze.

    "I''ve been watching you for a long time, Your Majesty," the woman continued, warranting a sarcastic remark from the queen.

    "I hope you are aware I do not appreciate that."

    "I am." The woman rocked her head, drawing a deep breath. "However, I nned to do so."

    "And why is that?"

    "Protecting you isn''t the right word for it, but to be useful."

    "Usefulбн" Aries scoffed once again, smirking in ridicule. "How are you going to be useful to me and what would you gain fromбн offering this unsolicited help?"

    "My freedom," was the woman''s answer, which Aries didn''t expect to hear. "You and Iбн regardless of how much you despised the concept, we''re in the same boat. This boat is slowly dipping, Your Majesty."

    The woman took a deliberate pause, blinking ever so slowly as she nced in a direction. Aries also nced over her shoulders, hearing people''s faint voices from a distance.

    "You will find out how I am going to be useful to youбн soon." Aries looked back at the woman as thetter spoke once again. "For now, all I can say is that you''re in danger, Your Majesty."

    "I am always in danger."

    The woman shook her head. "This time, you might dieбн no, not just you. The Grimsbanne will fall if you fell, Your Majesty. And if the Grimsbanne fell, I will also die, and everyone who was receiving help from them, intentionally or not."

    "I wille to you when the time is ripeбн" the woman''s voice faded as her figure also turned transparent. "... until then, please be safeбн"

    ******

    "Sunny!!!" Samael yelled his daughter''s name at the top of his lungs, turning his head as several knights came running from behind him. "Have you seen my daughter and Her Majesty?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Not yet, Sir. However, Sir Gustav told us to ry his message to youбн" the knight ryed the order he received from the queen''s chief chambein, telling Samael to check the deepest part of the maze as they were still in the entrance. "... he said they will follow after checking the royal pce."

    Samael ground his teeth in irritation, but he couldn''t vent his frustration to the knight. Gustav already widened the search, leaving Samael to lead the rest of \the unit to search the garden, while the rest would search every corner of the royal pce.

    "Guard every exit of the maze," ordered Samael to the knights. "You three,e with me."

    He tipped his head in the entrance''s direction. The knights nodded stiffly, and without saying anything, Samael led the three knights inside the maze. Meanwhile, the rest guarded every exit there was in the garden. There was a high possibility this would turn into an abduction case and therefore, everyone was being discreet but thorough about it.

    "Sunny!!"

    "Your Majesty!!"

    Samael and the knights called and shouted Sunny''s and the queen''s names repeatedly, hoping they would answer. They continued to call while checking every corner of the maze, aware they were going deeper and deeper into the maze.

    "Sun бк" Samael nearly bit his tongue when he made a turn, not knowing he already reached the center of the maze. His eyes slowly fell on the figure on the ground, making his irises dte in panic.

    "Your Majesty!" Samael dashed toward Aries. As he came closer, he caught Sunny lying in Aries''s embrace. "Your Majesty, are you alright!?"

    Samael squatted down beside Aries. His eyes were shaking in panic, nting his hand on her shoulder. Much to his surprise, even though Aries was sitting motionless, it didn''t seem she was unconscious or in shock. If anything, Aries carried these deep lines between her brows as if she was deep in her thoughts she didn''t even know Samael found her.

    "Your Majesty?" Samael''s call brought her back to the currentpse, making her lift her eyes back to him. "Are you alright? What happened here?"

    Aries studied his face before clearing her throat, gazing down at Sunny.

    "Nothing." Her voice was quiet, pulling Sunny closer to her. She then raised her head once again, facing Samael squarely. "I found Sunny lying in here. She''s not hurt or anything, so I figured she simply wandered off and couldn''t find her way out."

    "Huh?" Samael furrowed his brows. His reaction was quite different from what one would expect after being told his daughter wandered off and couldn''t find her way out.

    "Call the knights and tell them we''ve found Sunny," Aries continued calmly.

    Samael sported a conflicted look momentarily before huffing. "Fine," he said. "Stay here for a moment, Your Majesty. I''ll summon the knights to assist you back to the pce."

    "Thank you."

    With that being said, Samael left Aries to find the nearest knight in the area. Meanwhile, Aries kept her gaze on Sunny. When Samael''s presence faded slightly, Sunny opened her eyes ever so slowly.

    "Can you keep this a secret?" asked Aries in a quiet voice.

    Sunny stared at Aries almost innocently before the corner of her lips curled up into a smile. "Mhm. I''ll pretend I''m still sleeping."

    And with that, Sunny closed her eyes once again to pretend she still hadn''t regained consciousness.

 Chapter 858 You Are Also A Part Of The Family, Are You Not?

    ?

    "Your Majesty, I''ve ordered the knights to investigate if there were other suspicious movements when the youngdy went missing."

    Samael nced at Gustav, who went inside the guest chamber in the Queen''s pce to make his post report.

    "There is no need, but I appreciate it," said Samael with a smile, turning his head to the person sitting across where he stood. "Your Majesty, do not worry too much. The most important thing is that we found Sunny, and she''s not harmed."

    Aries sat beside the bed, holding Sunny''s little hands. "Gustav, do the investigation at your discretion."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Gustav lowered his head. "I will excuse myself first."

    Samael kept his short smile, nodding approvingly at Gustav. With that being said, Gustav left Aries and Samael inside the chambers. Samael followed Gustav''s figure with his eyes until he heard the faint click of the door and then set his attention back to Sunny.

    "There was a saying that says; mother knows best. But I believe that isn''t limited to mothers, but to parents as well," he said, huffing quietly. "Stop pretending, Sunny. I''ve been alive even before your mother was born. It''ll take you a millennium before you have a chance of deceiving me."

    pж┴ndж┴---noж═?1,зуoзо Aries''s brows rose, shifting her attention to Samael. As she locked eyes with him, an adorable giggle caressed her ears while Samael''s face softened.

    "I didn''t say anything earlier since we''re outside," he said, shaking his head before setting his eyes back to Aries. "I understand you want secrecy, Your Majesty. However, do not forget we are in the boat in the middle of a vast ocean. Working together to stay afloat is something we should be doing."

    "Papa, Grandmama has a good reason for not telling you what happened." Sunny sat up, smiling. "It''s not like Grandmama is the only person who was keeping a secret. Grandpa as well бк you too! Does that mean we''re going to sink? Good thing I''m a good swimmer."

    "Sunnyбн"

    "I think you already know the reason I can''t open my mouth anytime I please," Aries spoke, stealing Samael''s attention. "But I never forget who my allies are and not Samael."

    Silence descended upon them as Aries and Samael stared at each other without any intention of looking away. Meanwhile, Sunny darted her eyes between the two, blinking innocently.

    "Very well." After another minute, Samael cleared his throat. "It''s not like I need to know the details. All I''m saying is do not carry all the burden on your own. You are not alone this time. Abel might be somewhere doing all the crazy things he always does, but we are all here to support you."

    "I know, and I appreciate that. You always have my gratitude бк for Lilou, as well."

    "You don''t have to thank me or anyone, Your Majesty. Suppose there was anyone who had to thank who was us, and not you. After all, you are in this predicament because of us бк because we carry the blood of the Grimsbanne." Samael sported a short smile. "You were simply dragged into this silent chaos because you loved someone who carried this cursed blood."

    Aries assessed the faint glow in his eyes, making her swallow down the tension in her throat. "Are you sorry for me or for your wife and children?"

    "Both." Samael chuckled bitterly. "You are also a part of the family, are you not?"

    Surprise immediately dominated Aries''s countenance after hearing hisst remarks, making Samael chuckle at her reaction. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "What''s with that look, Aries?" heughed. "Don''t tell me after having a party with us, you still consider us as strangers?"

    "Grandmama, you''re hurting my feelings." Sunny pouted, watching Aries look back at her.

    "No, that''s not it." Aries forced a subtle smile, nting her hand on top of Sunny''s head. She ruffled it gently and then lifted her head back to Samael. "That is something I didn''t expect to hear, but I deeply appreciate it."

    "As long as you understand what being in the same boat means, I feel reassured."

    This time, the subtle smile on Aries''s face stretched wider as her eyes shone with rity. For the past weeks, Aries had been clinging to the ghost of the past. She knew Miguel wasn''t Davien, but she had been making up excuses to see him or have a talk with him.

    Aries deluded herself that she was simply ying along with her enemy''s ns, but there was a part of her that wanted to make up with Davien through Miguel. No matter how she denied it, Aries could never hide it.

    Wasn''t that the reason she still had no progress until now?

    "Your visit is very much appreciated, Samael." Aries broke the silence while keeping her beautiful smile. "Please tell Lilou to expect an invitation from the royal pce soon."

    "I''ll make sure to tell her." Samael lowered his head politely and then straightened his back. "She would be ted to hear a word from Your Majesty."

    "I heard she doesn''t like tea parties."

    "She hates social gatherings, but it''s a different case if it''s a time for someone she is very fond of. My wife adores Your Majesty just as much you adored her. Therefore, I am certain she would dly be in your presence."

    "No need to be so formal." Aries chuckled."

    "You are still the queen, and I am your subject. Anyway, I always took up too much of your time. I am honored to be in your grace." Samael performed a quick neck bow again. "Sunny, bid Her Majesty farewell."

    "Grandmama, can Ie with my mother once she visits you?" asked Sunny, blinking adorably as she waited for an answer.

    "Of course." Aries nodded. "Let''s y again soon, alright?"

    "Yes~!" Sunny grinned from ear to ear while her round cheeks turned pinkish.

    Seeing how excited little Sunny was, Aries chuckled. She stretched her arm and ruffled the little girl''s hair. Aries''s eyes softened, casting Samael a look, only to receive a smile from him.

 Chapter 859 Can You Do Me A Favor?

    ?

    "Samael."

    Samael and Sunny stopped by the door, looking back at Aries as she called. Both father and daughter tilted their heads to the side, waiting for what Aries had to say.

    "You said you lived here a few years back." Aries advanced in their direction, stopping two steps before them.

    "Yes, Your Majesty. I resided in the Forbidden Forest for over four years."

    "I heard it wasn''t easy."

    "It wasn''t." Samael smiled. "We were treated as fugitives in the beginning. If not for Tilly, it''s almost impossible to be granted permission to step foot in the capital. So, I''m grateful to Tilly. Even though she didn''t do much, her name alone is enough to give me some sort of opportunity to sell my works on the streets of the maind."

    Aries rocked her head, already aware of Samael La Crox''s story. After all, Samael was recorded in the books kept in the royal library. Samael was considered an outsider when he first came to the maind with his family. It was true that if not for Tilly and the dangers of the Forbidden Forest where the Grimsbanne mansion stood, the chances of Samael making a proper livelihood in thisnd were close to none.

    "Thenбн was it true that the reason the high society epted you was because of the previous king, Maximus III?" she asked.

    "Yes. I was the one who painted his portrait." Samael nodded. "Rightбн you haven''t met him alive, have you?"

    "No."

    "Well, he wasбн how should I say it? Alright?"

    "Alright?"

    "Mhm. He was just what you expect from a king. He has a regal aura. His tone was gentle but firm. Though he didn''t intimidate me, he was rational and admirable. To be honest, I like him," exined Samael, recalling a memory in the past that wasn''t that important to him. "May I ask why are you asking such details, Your Majesty?"

    "It''s because if you are acquainted with thete king Maximus III and had met nobles throughout the time you had lived in thisnd, have you perhaps met the heir of the Rothschild n?" Aries didn''t hesitate to ask questions that no one else could answer because, like her, those around her in the pce did not have a lot of information about it.

    Gustav, Suzanne, Marcia Graves, Dexter, and everyone else came to the maind at the same time as Aries. In other words, they wouldn''t have any idea what Miguel truly looked like before. Was Miguel born with the same face as Miguel? Or was there another hidden mystery that hadn''t crossed her mind yet?

    "The heir of the Rothchildбн" Samael mumbled, rubbing his chin as he tackled his memory. "You mean Count Miguel?"

    "Yes."

    "Well, of course." Samael nodded with certainty. "The Rothchild was the wealthiest n on the maind. Back then, even if the king approved of me, I''m certain only half of the high society could tolerate my existence and residency on the maind. But, because the Rothschild бк Count Miguel in particr бк showed interest in my novels, the high society gradually epted me. It might just be me, but from how I saw it, the Rothschild defines the flow of the economy and the high society in thisnd, not the royal family."

    "I didn''t care much before and I avoided politics like a gue. But now, this part in thisnd concerns me," he continued while his voice turned solemn. "I can''t say the Rothschild were bad people, neither will I say with certainty they were good people. So far, they stand on the fine line between good and bad. However, I can''t shrug off the feeling that they were part of the race."

    Samael walked to the same spot, facing Aries squarely. "I met Count Miguel several times in the past, and I can say he wasn''t a terrible person. However, his strong sense of patriotism may cloud his judgment. Or worse, he might get influenced because of twisted truths. That is why I called it a race."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Are you perhaps trying to meet him?"

    "Yes." He nodded without a second hesitation. "I''m waiting for his response, though I cannot deny my patience is running thin. I hope I can hold myself back a little longer before I sneak inside his home unannounced."

    "I suppose you built a good rtionship with him."

    "I don''t consider it friendship, but he provides quality talk." Samael shrugged. "Hearing that he was your instructor put me at ease. I don''t think my patience willst this long, if not for that."

    His smile broadened. "Why, Your Majesty? Is there something bothering you about him?"

    "Yes."

    "What is it? I might be of help."

    "You were a painter, weren''t you?" she inquired, watching him nod. "Is it possible to do a sketch?"

    "Of who?" Samael cocked his head to the side, confused.

    "Miguel Rothschild." Her countenance turned firm and solemn. "Can you do me a favor? Will you sketch Miguel Rothschild of what he looked like when you first met him?"

    Deep lines appeared between Samael''s brows, confused at her request. There were myriads of questions or requests that shed in his head why Aries was raising such strange questions. However, he didn''t expect to hear that she would ask for a sketch.

    "You won''t spread the sketch as a wanted poster, will you?" he narrowed his eyes suspiciously.

    "No. That''s not it." Aries ignored the suspicious look stered on his face as she shook her head mildly. "I just want to confirm something. After all, Miguel Rothschild looks exactly like someone I know in the past."

    "They say in this world, you might meet someone who looks like you or someone you knowбн"

    "It''s not just a mere resemnce, but more like a doppelganger." Aries cut him off with a firm tone. "I want to make sure the Miguel Rothschild I am seeing is the same as the one you are talking about."

    "Making a sketch isn''t a problem, Your Majesty. But may I know who is this person the Count looks like that seemed to have shaken you?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line as she drew a deep breath.

    "My brother," she breathed out. "In my eye, Miguel was the spitting image of my brother, Davien. I want to make sure whether it was an illusion or something else."

 Chapter 860 The Sketch

    ?

    "In my eye, Miguel was the spitting image of my brother, Davien. I want to make sure whether it was an illusion or something else."

    Asking Samael for Miguel''s sketch was an idea that didn''t cross Aries''s mind until Samael''s visit to the royal pce. It slipped her mind that there was someone on her side who had been on the maind years before her. Thus, she grabbed the opportunity to ask for a favor in hopes she would get some rity from it.

    Samael epted the favor, telling her she would receive the sketch in three days. Aries patiently waited day and night. It was silly, though. Her first two years on the maind passed by in a blur; she barely noticed the time. But the three days wait was burning her rope of patience faster than one could ever have fathomed.

    ''Today is the third day,'' said Aries internally, tapping her fingers on the t surface of the desk simultaneously. ''It could arrive any time today. Why do I feel restless? I already ordered Gustav that a letter from the House Grimsbanne wille today and he was the only person allowed to touch it.''

    Aries listened to the faint sound of her fingers, eyes fixed on the surface of the desk, but her mind was drifting elsewhere. Aries busied herself for the past two days with the double amount of work to fight her impatience. But now that it was the third day, she couldn''t even finish reading one document.

    She was like this since morning, staring at nowhere with her mind somewhere else. She wasn''t even sure if she even had tea for the day or ate something. Her mind was simply focused on what sort of sketch she would receive from Samael.

    ''What would you do if the face Samael was seeing differed from yours?'' her mind inquired, making her tighten her jaw.

    "Then I just have to close my eyes once I carve his heart out of his chest," came out a whispered, eyes glinting menacingly.

    ''What if it was the same?''

    This time, Aries couldn''t answer her own question. It might be a simple question that required the most obvious answer. If it was the same, then she could just convince herself it was a mere coincidence. For sure, Miguel was born before Davien бк he was born centuries before Davien took his first breath in this world.

    In other words, her enemies right now wouldn''t have imagined Aries and Abel being together back then. Therefore, there was a high possibility that it was a coincidence. She hoped it was, though.

    "I''ll still root for him," she whispered, blinking ever so slowly as Davien''s beautiful memories she treasured shed in her head one by one.

    All these memories were memories she treasured and cherished, tucking everything in a part of her brain that she thought no one else could touch. However, when she met Miguel, all these memories resurfaced, filling her brain and overwhelming her dramatically.

    "He is not a bad person, but I will never feel bad for being his enemy." Aries slowly closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, and listening to the tap of her fingers. When she reopened her eyes, rity and calmness shone in her beautiful eyes. "Because I don''t think Davien would want me to lose my current family because of him."

    That was right.

    Speaking to Samael and hearing his thoughts about this matter cleared up one thing. Aries had already lost her biological family once. She already mourned for them, prayed for their souls, thanked them for everything, and pledged to live a happy life to not worry them wherever they were.

    Miguel might look like Davien, but he would never be Davien.

    Davien was dead.

    Aries lost her family once. Turning her back on Miguel or killing him if necessary wouldn''t change that. The only way she could lose her family again was while focusing on Davien''s look-alike. She might end up endangering the family she now has. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    The Grimsbanne.

    Knock Knock!

    The faint knock from outside the Queen''s Chancery snapped Aries back to the currentpse. She lifted her head, listening to the person outside announcing their arrival.

    Gustav.

    "Come in," she ordered even before Gustav could finish stating his purpose.

    Aries held her breath as she watched the door open, creaking louder than it should have, as if the hinges were about to fall off. As soon as her gaze caught Gustav''s figure entering the chancery, Aries clutched her skirt tightly to hold herself back from losing her poise.

    "Greetings, Your Majesty." Gustav bowed while holding a tray with an envelope on top of it. "The letter from the House Grimsbanne arrived today."

    Aries cleared her throat. "Did anyone else try to get a hold of it?"

    "No, Your Majesty. They wouldn''t even have a chance since the security in the pce was raised," he exined. "I am the person who received it directly from Morro, the Grimsbanne''s messenger. Rest assured, this letter from Samael La Crox was the letter he sent you."

    "Very well." Aries rocked her head, but was still unable to heave a sigh of relief. "Hand it over."

    As ordered, Gustav walked to the side where Aries''s perched. He moved the tray closer to her, and then she picked up the letter. Her heart thudded as soon as she got a hold of the envelope. Inside this letter lies a truth she might not be ready for.

    "Here, Your Majesty."

    Aries nced at Gustav as thetter opened the paper knife.

    eж┴glesn?ж═el "Thank you." She shed him a short smile, cing the letter before her. She then epted the paperknife, but just as she posed to open it, Aries paused.

    "I want to be alone for a moment, Gustav," she said, casting him a quick look. "You do not have to worry about me."

    Gustav pressed his lips into a thin line, bowing. He didn''t say anything as he left the chancery while she waited for the stifling silence to dominate the room again.

    Aries took another deep breath and huffed it out quietly, resuming opening the letter that could make or break her.

 Chapter 861 It Was Baffling

    ?

    Meanwhile, in the fort of the maind, which was also known as the center of trade, things were still moving like usual. Ships from different kingdoms were authorized to unload their goods, move hand in hand, and then they would load other goods produced on the maind.

    It was busy, as always.

    Miguel had kept his eyes on the scene, leaning against the stacked crates with his arms folded under his chest. Even though he already had a ''proper'' talk with the queen, Miguel continued securing the security in the fort for a reason he also didn''t know exactly.

    "I am no longer the Aries I used to be, and I don''t me anyone for it, nor do I feel sorry about it. I will ruin thisnd just like how it ruined the peace I painstakingly built. Try as much as you can to stop me, Lord Miguel. If you do, you might just save everyone just as you wish. However, until then, I will not stop or dy my ns."

    "I hope you seed. I really do, Miguel."

    A deep exhale slipped past his lips, recalling hisst encounter with Aries. Everything that came out of her mouth was stuck in his head; her voice would sh in his head, making it hard for him to focus on his day-to-day life.

    ''She''s a truly baffling person,'' he thought, shaking his head mildly to get rid of the remarks echoing in his head. ''I don''t understand her.''

    Understanding Aries was proven to be a headache. She would talk about destroying thisnd Miguel was so devoted to, but then would tell him she was rooting for him. Now, Miguel was in great conflict about what to do with it.

    Do Aries truly want the maind to fall? Or does she want something else?

    Either way, Miguel was certain of one thing. Aries had ns that could potentially destroy something. Be it the maind or something else, he was certain whatever the queen had in mind, the maind wouldn''t get out of it unscathed.

    "I need to stop thinking of things that I might not get answers to right now," he told himself, letting out another deep sigh.

    Miguel cleared his throat, shaking his head to get himself together. To distract himself from these distracting thoughts, he widened his eyes and looked around at the scene before him. Everything was moving exactly the same.

    The scene was almost simr to the urrence yesterday. His knights were still doing quick inspections just to make sure that nothing suspicious would enter thend. So far, everything was clearбн just as what the queen said. Still, Miguel couldn''t get rid of the restlessness in his chest about this sudden influx of imports and exports. Though ording to the records, the economy on the maind drastically increased.

    ''I have nothing else to do here,'' he thought, peeling his side from the crates. His folded arms fell to his sides, straightening his back. Miguel stretched his neck from one side to the other, soothing the tension in his shoulders and spine. Giving the fort onest look, Miguel turned on his heel and walked away.

    Just as Miguel was heading back to his steed, leaving the rest of the inspection to his men, a person brushed past his shoulder. Bumping into someone in a crowded ce like the fort was not something new, but this time, Miguel froze.

    His heart suddenly thudded against his chest while his breathing hitched for a moment. With pupils growing wide as shock dominated their faces, Miguel turned around to search for the person his shoulder grazed against with. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    ''What the hell was that?'' he wondered, searching the busy scene with wide eyes.

    He could feel his heart thudding against his chest and he knew it only meant one thing: danger. Miguel had been in danger countless times and he had grown more familiar with this feeling than other feelings that one would normally feel every day.

    ''This feelingбн'' Miguel balled his hands into a tight fist, grinding his teeth that made his teeth clench. ''I never met someone who reeked of malevolence beforeбн and to think someone like that walks on the maind.''

    His countenance turned sour at the thought that crossed his mind. The maind sheltered vampires with the purest blood, noble blood, royal blood, and all sorts of variety that differed one from another. Everyone in thisnd was stronger than an average human in the outside world. Miguel was well aware of that since he was granted the privilege of going in and out of the maind under the premise of undertaking his duty.

    And because of that awareness, Miguel knew that the aura he felt just now was different. He didn''t need to use his head; his blood could tell.

    ''There''s only one person that could shake my core this way.'' His eyes sharpened even more as they glinted, clenching his teeth. ''Abel Grimsbanne.''

    "What is his business in here?" asked Miguel to himself, creating usible scenarios and reasons in his head. "No wonder I''ve been feeling restless ever since I heard about the trades on the maind."

    eaglesnov?1,зуoзо It wasn''t just in his head.

    Lowering the security on the maind was a great loophole for someone who bore ill intentions. Many kingdoms fell because of secret infiltration. It was one of the many reasons kingdoms had allotted knights on every border because, once a border fell, it only meant war.

    "Abel Grimsbanneбн" he hissed under his breath, still looking around the fort even though he couldn''t find the person he had bumped into just now. "I knew you were bad news when I heard you are in thisnd." бк Abel was already bad news the moment Maximus IV died in Abel''s hands, but no action was done just because of the damn blood hierarchy.

    Justice wasn''t served to the death of thete king. However, that didn''t mean Miguel would just allow Abel to do whatever he pleased.

    This was still thend he was born and raised; thend Miguel pledged to protect until hisst breath. Abel might be the strongest Grimsbanne out there, but Miguel was still a Rothschild.

    Little did Miguel know, Abel was watching him from the distance with delight in his eyes.

    "What an adorable child. However, it''s baffling why my darling thinks he looks like his brother,"mented Abel, tugging the hood of his cloak before turning on his heel to walk into the dark alley he was idling. "He doesn''t look like anything like myte brother-inw."

 Chapter 862 Sickening

    ?

    [ Queen''s Pce ]

    Illusions and different abilities that had elements of such were a part of reality Aries was forced to ept. When she met Miguel for the first time, Aries already thought she was under a powerful illusion. She assumed she was simply seeing things; a part of her enemy''s tactics to distract her. However, the more she thought about it, the more her eagerness to know the truth grow.

    From another perspective, Aries didn''t need this truth. But as the saying goes, the truth would set you free. Therefore, she wanted to know the truth behind Miguel and why he had the same face as her brother.

    The sketch might not give her the truth she was trying to uncover, but it would surely give her an idea of things. Hopefully.

    Aries sat quietly on the divan in the queen''s chamber. Her eyes were nk as if she was deep in thought, but that wasn''t the case. The shine in her eyes was the most obvious indicator she was mentally present.

    Knock Knock.

    Aries didn''t move a muscle when a faint knock from the outside window caressed her ears. Even when the wind suddenly blew her hair from behind, she sat still.

    "I heard you requested Samael for a sketch." After a moment, Abel''s voice erupted in the quiet room, along with the sound of his light footsteps. "How was it, darling?"

    Upon hisst remarks, his hot breath tickled the shell of her ear. This time, Aries blinked ever so slowly. She turned her head to the side, meeting his glowing crimson eyes almost instantly.

    "Words reached you quite slow," she remarked softly. "I was expecting you since I made the request."

    Abel smiled sweetly. "I was preupied, darling," he said, turning around and propping his bottom against the backrest of the divan. He nted his hands on either side of him, eyes still on her.

    "So?" his brows rose as curiosity swirled in his eyes. "Did the sketch answer the mystery in your head?"

    Aries pressed her lips into a thin line, taking a deep breath. She looked away, only to bend over to pick up the envelope on the coffee table before her.

    "Here. Take a look." The envelope was clipped in between her fore and middle finger, handing it leisurely to Abel. "And tell me what you think."

    Abel didn''t ept the envelope as he stared into her eyes. Shrugging, he epted the envelope and opened it. He unfolded the piece of paper inside, raising his brows as he gazed at the detailed sketch Samael drew.

    In one nce, anyone who would look at the sketch would forget the reason behind it. The sketch was too detailed, as if the person''s face was pasted on it.

    "What a talent, indeed," mused Abel, nodding approvingly while his eyes were fixed on the sketch. "No wonder Samael was able to feed the entire family with his work. I would spend a fortune just to get a piece of his work."

    "What do you see?" she asked, staring at his side profile.

    "Hmm?" Abel reluctantly peeled his gaze from the sketch to Aries.

    "Have you met Miguel Rothschild? Is that his face?"

    "Yes. I bumped into him today." His tone was indifferent. "Did this answer the questions in your head?"

    "That''s what my brother looks like." Aries didn''t beat around the bush, making him furrow his brows mildly. "Just looking at the sketch and without the knowledge of Miguel''s existence, there''s no doubt this is Davien. And that baffles me even more, Abel."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Was it truly possible that someone doesn''t just resemble a person, but looks exactly the same?" she continued, releasing all the questions and doubt she had been holding back. "I am at my wit''s end. I thought the sketch will give me some answers, but it only left more questions."

    "What should I do now, Abel?" she breathed out, biting her inner lower lip as conflict swirled in her eyes.

    Abel remained silent, raising his hand to cup her lean cheek. His thumb gently brushed her cheek while his lips parted.

    "They don''t look the same, darling." His words reced her conflicted expression with confusion. "You''re the one who baffles me, Aries."

    "What do you mean they don''t look alike?" Aries''s brows knitted in disbelief. "You said it yourself, Abel. That''s what Miguel looks like. That''s what you and I see. Are you doubting me?"

    "No, darling."

    "Then, why would you say they don''t look alike?" Aries brushed his hand away from her face and then pointed at the sketch. "That, Abel. That face is Davien''s face."

    "No."

    eж┴glesn?ж═el "What?"

    "That''s not what my brother-inw looks like."

    Aries''s breath hitched for a moment, surprised at his remarks. "How did you know what Davien looks like? He was already dead when we met."

    "I''ve seen him." Abel blinked, raising a finger to poke her forehead. "In your dreams. I''ve seen him there."

    Her eyes shook slightly as her pupils slowly widened.

    "When you came to the Haimirich Empire, your nightmares kept haunting you. Whenever I sleep beside you, you keep dragging me in those nightmares as if you wanted me to know you." He peeled his finger from her forehead, nting his hand on the backrest again. "There were times I''d stand on the balcony where I could see everything unfold. Sometimes, in the middle of the battlefield, standing on the side while everyone falls every passing second. I do not want to go through the details and relive the memories we both painstakingly tried to bury in the deepest part of our brains."

    "The point I am making is, I have seen Davien, and he looks nothing like Miguel Rothschild." Abel raised the sketch and looked at it again. "No matter what angle I look, this is not what myte brother-inw looks like."

    He tilted his head to the side, assessing the sketch before him. This sketch was definitely Miguel Rothschild.

    "Hahбн" after a second, a dryugh escaped Abel''s mouth. He set his attention back to Aries, whose expression was a mix of confusion and shock. "I have a theory, but this might truly anger you to a level you never even know existed."

    "What is it?" her voice was shaky and the sweat on her back turned cold. "What is this theory you''re talking about?"

    Aries and Abel stared at each other without saying anything for an entire minute. When his lips parted, her eyes dted and herplexion turned pale, making her lungs constrict. The more she listened to him, the more she felt sick to her stomach.

    It was sickening.

 Chapter 863 The Irony

    ?

    "Your Majesty?"

    "Your Majesty?"

    "Aries."

    Aries snapped her eyes, lifting her gaze to the person sitting across from her. There, Dexter was retrieving his fist from the surface of the table after knocking on it to get her attention.

    "It seems you have a lot of things to think about whenever you invite me for some tea." Dexter tugged his suit as he straightened his back. "It makes me think you''re simply inviting me as an excuse to avoid your work."

    "Apologies." Aries smiled.

    "Don''t be." Dexter smiled back. "You have many things in mind on top of surviving every day within the castle walls. I''m just d that you don''t forget about me even though we are in a situation where enjoying a cup of tea can cost our lives."

    Her smile faded slightly, letting out a shallow breath. "I haven''t been feeling well for the past few days. I thought spending some time with my brother will make me feel better."

    "You don''t feel well?" Deep lines appeared between Dexter''s brows as worry filled his eyes. He leaned over, propping his arm against the edge of the table. "How are you feeling right now, Aries? Have you been drinking?"

    Aries chuckled at the sight of panic dominating Dexter''s face.

    "I am alright, brother." She shook her head mildly. "It was just that I felt sick the past several days."

    Her eyes lowered, falling on the tea and thevish snacks on the table. "It felt like my stomach was constantly turning, making me want to throw up. However, even when I rush to thevatory, nothing woulde out."

    As Aries detailed what she had been going through the past few days, she couldn''t help but recall all of it. For the past several days, Aries would sometimes cough so loud and continuously that she would copse on the floor. But even when she would writhe in pain on the floor, tears would flow out of her eyes.

    The pain she had been going through was far too severe she couldn''t even start describing it.

    Abel was right when he said his theory might anger her to an extent it would surprise her as well. Aries never thought she would feel so sick out of anger she would vomit blood.

    "But I am fine now." She snapped her eyes back to Dexter, shing him a gentle smile.

    "Are you certain?" Dexter frowned, doubtful at her reassurance. After all, Aries had this habit of enduring something just to not worry the people around her. "Aries, you know the reason I am here, right? If something is wrong or if you are still in pain, I will help you with everything I can."

    "Does that include offering your blood to me?"

    Dexter''s breath hitched as all the words he still had to say rolled back inside his throat. "Aries, that is not a good joke."

    "I am not joking."

    Dexter assessed her solemn countenance and sighed when the corner of her lips curled up into a smile. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Not funny," he repeated, leaning back while she chuckled. "I would give you my blood бк all of it if you needed it. But I don''t think I would ever give you even a drop right now."

    "Why?" Aries cocked her head to the side. "Because sharing blood is a sensual act?"

    "No." Dexter''s expression turned hard, holding Aries''s gaze. "If I end up giving you my blood, that only means one thing, and that was Abel is dead."

    There was no way in hell Abel would allow Aries to drink someone else''s blood because of the most obvious reasons. It was the same for him. Aries''s blood was the only blood he had been drinking ever since she turned into a vampire.

    For Aries to drink another vampire''s blood or even a human, that only meant Abel was dead. That would be the only time Aries could drink another, after all.

    "You hate Abel to the core." Aries let out a short chuckle, lowering her soft eyes. "Yet I always thought you trust him more than you trust yourself."

    "Well." Dexter simply shrugged. "Your husband has an awful personality. But because he''s a jackass, he was thest person to scheme on your back. If he wants to ughter you, he would announce it in the most dramatic way he could think of at the moment."

    He smacked his lips, setting his eyes back on her. "So, yes. I hate Abel with all my heart, but at the same time, I trust him more than I could ever trust someone. I even trust him more than I trust myself. The irony, isn''t it?"

    "It''s strange, but I get your point." Aries rocked her head in understanding. "Though, you should give him a chance. I politely disagree that my husband has an awful personality. For me, you just don''t give him a chance to show you how kind he could be."

    "We''ve been together for centuries, sister. Didn''t you think he didn''t get as many chances as he could?"

    Aries and Dexter went on to their usual banter about her husband, Abel. Slowly, their conversation drifted into something light. This was the reason Aries would summon her brother every time things weren''t going the way she wanted them to.

    Dexter had one thing no one else doesn''t, and that was to make her feel motivated. Abel was a bundle of chaos, and all the motivation he was giving her was things centered around her boudoir.

    Dexter had always been a great support pir, so spending the entire afternoon with him was worthwhile.

    *

    *

    *

    "Your Majesty."

    Aries was standing in front of the window, staring at the lush greenery surrounding the queen''s pce. Dexter already left half an hour ago. The silence in the room immediately reced it as if the sharedughter and light mood they created when he was there didn''t even happen.

    "Let the Count in, Suzanne." Just before Suzanne could call Aries once again, thetter spoke without looking back at her. "I already expect his request for a private audience today."

    A glint flickered across Aries''s eyes, keeping her eyes fixed on the window until her own reflection turned clear.

 Chapter 864 Drawing The Line

    ?

    "Thank you for epting my request despite the short notice."

    "Drop the pretenses, Lord Miguel." Aries maintained a stony countenance while keeping her eyes locked on the person sitting on the divan on her right. "I might''ve epted your request for a private audience, but I don''t have the spare patience to indulge in tteries and formalities. That would be a waste of my time."

    Miguel pressed his lips into a thin line, eyes on the woman on the one-seater couch by the end of the rectangr center table.

    "Aggressive," hemented under his breath. "But you are right, Your Majesty. tteries and formalities were simply a waste of time. Though you cannot me me for you are still the sovereign of the maind and thus, I cannot skip the formalities without your permission."

    "I know." Aries leaned back, arms on the armrest, eyes on him. Her brows rose, motioning her arm for him to speak. "What is the urgent matter that you want to discuss with me? I''m certain you wouldn''t request a private audience with the sovereign on short notice if it wasn''t important."

    "You''re right, Your Majesty." Miguel breathed out, clearing his throat. His expression turned solemn, locking his eyes with him. "Are you working with Abel Grimsbanne, Your Majesty?"

    "No."

    "Then why did you open the fort for anyone toe in and out of the maind?"

    "I thought you requested a private audience to discuss things that are essential to both of us and this country. I didn''t know I was in for an interrogation." Aries let out a snicker, ridicule clear in her eyes. "I think I already told you the reason not just once, Count Miguel. Whether or not you believe me is on you, but I won''t repeat myself. It seems my leniency on you made you forget who is the person a mere count like you are talking to. I would let this slide for now, but I guarantee you the next time you forget your ce will be the time the Rothchild will grovel on my feet."

    She tilted her head to the side, eyes colder than a second ago. "Is that all you need?"

    "Apologies, Your Majesty." Miguel lowered his head mildly. "I might''ve lost my mind and forgot I was talking to the person leading this great nation."

    eж┴glesn?ж═el "Apologies epted, but never forgotten." Aries shrugged. "Raise your head and tell me if that is all you need to know. I don''t want to waste my time, Count."

    Miguel slowly raised his head. As soon as he did, his eyes instantly met hers.

    "Please reduce the number of ships that go in and out of the Maind''s territory." Miguel didn''t go around in a circle and delved into this main agenda. "I understand that the imports and exports and trades were set to keep our diplomatic rtions with nations that benefit the maind. However, I''m afraid some people are taking advantage of this to hurt thisnd."

    "Please hear me, Your Majesty." He bowed, hands curled on hisp.

    "On what grounds are you basing this, Count?" Aries cocked her head to the side while Miguel lifted his head again. "Didn''t I give you authority to oversee the fort for your peace of mind? Did something happen or have you seen anything suspicious about the goods that are entering the Maind?"

    Miguel kept a tight mouth for a moment. "I bumped into Abel Grimsbanne the other day."

    "And?" her brow arched, aware that Abel and Miguel had met the other day. After all, Abel came to her that night. Although Abel didn''t detail everything, he answered all of her questions. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    ording to Abel, he simply bumped into Miguel. There weren''t any conversations or anything that urred. Abel wasn''t even sure if Miguel recognized him.

    "Andбн I think he is taking advantage of the trades."

    "You think?" Aries repeated. "So you requested a private audience, tried to interrogate the sovereign, and now you are requesting to reduce the number of ships entering our territory based on a hunch?"

    Miguel''s jaw tightened. Of course, he knew how stupid that sounded even before he came in here.

    "Lord Miguel, I considered you as someone better than this." Aries let out a dryugh, resting her jaw against her knuckles. "I assumed you already thought about how to salvage this discussion before you came in here, yes?"

    Silence descended on them after her remarks. Aries waited, giving him a minute to give her a satisfactory answer. But when a minute passed with silence, a loud and dryugh escaped her lips.

    "You don''t?" ridicule shone in her eyes. "Are you trying to waste my time, Lord Miguel? Or do you think I am incapable of making sensible decisions for this country?"

    "That is not what I intend бк"

    "Count Miguel Rothschild!" Aries''s voice thundered as her eyes shone in bright red. "You came in here, requesting something that could affect the country''s progressing economy based on a hunch, and you are telling me that undermining my authority and decisions is not what you intend to do?"

    She shook her head in disappointment. "How amusing."

    "Apologies, Your Majesty. I am simply saying that if someone from the outside came to know what sort of market we have in the Maind бк"

    "Say no more." Aries cut him off mid-sentence with a stern voice. "Be grateful I haven''t called my knights and sentenced you to death."

    Miguel''s breath hitched, assessing the coldness dominating her face. From the first time he met Aries, Miguel had many things to describe her. One personality in particr that stood out to him was her aloofness and the longing that would peek into her eyes from time to time.

    But now, she felt like a stranger.

    The line between them felt wider and clearer. It was obvious Aries had drawn the line as the sovereign of thisnd, while Miguel was one of her subjects.

    He thought they had gotten closer, but it seemed he was wrong. She would never let him in.

    "It was disappointing. I thought you were better than this, Count Miguel." Aries calmed down, but her expression was still unmoved. "Get out of my sight and don''t ever show your face to me unless it is necessary. If youe here to waste my time again, I assure you... you won''t leave the pce in one piece. Mark my words."

 Chapter 865 An Official Invitation From The Raven

    ?

    Aries should have drawn the line between her and Miguel from the very beginning. She shouldn''t have waited or dwelled in the mystery behind that face of his.

    If only she had done thatбн If only she had turned a blind eye to that face and listened to the advice she had told herself, she wouldn''t be in too much pain.

    The saying it was better to be hurt by the truth thanforted by a lie was a lie. Aries just wished not to know anything at all. The truth that she had yet confirmed but reckoned was enough to devastate her.

    "That''s all, Your Majesty." Suzanne bowed, keeping her hands linked before her. When she uncurled her back, Aries was still working on the documents without casting her handmaiden a look.

    "Your Majestyбн"

    "I heard you, Suzanne," said Aries without taking her eyes off the documents she was signing. "Tell Marcia Graves I can''t meet her right now. I think I know enough about what is going on in this territory that I need to have a word with her."

    "But Your Majesty, Marcia Graves seemed to be rmed бк"

    "If that is all, then leave me for now, Suzanne. I have a lot of catching up to do. I will appreciate a moment of peace and silence." Aries paused, lifting her gaze to Suzanne. "I am fine, Suzanne."

    Worry would always swirl in Suzanne''s eyes whenever Aries would bury herself at work. Suzanne served Aries even when they were candidates for the empress in the Haimirich Empire. Therefore, she knew when something was wrong or when Aries was bothered by something.

    Aries had beenser-focused whenever she was working recently, after all. She wouldn''t even look at Suzanne.

    "I will be on standby, Your Majesty." Suzanne didn''t pry, knowing Aries would confide in her if she couldn''t take it anymore. "Call me if you need me in any way."

    Aries said nothing, watching Suzanne bow again. Thetter didn''t make a sound as she left, making it easy for silence to fill the chancery as soon as she closed the door.

    "Hahбн" Aries let out a deep exhale, leaning back. She tilted her head back, eyes shut to rest.

    "I shouldn''t make it so obvious to not worry her," came out a whisper, letting her stiff body melt on the chair. "Get it together, Aries. Your life and everyone''s lives were on the line."

    Silence slowly reigned in the chancery until Aries could hear her own breathing. It was just pin-drop silence, keeping her eyes shut.

    She didn''t know how long she was in that same position until she opened her eyes. The room was already slightly dark, making her turn her head to the window.

    "The sun had its fun," she murmured, seeing that the iing darkness had already devoured half of the beautiful tangerine in the sky. "And when night rolls in, obviously, those who live in the dark crawl out of their cave бк I am busy, so I will appreciate it if you keep it short and simple."

    Aries maintained her cold and sharp countenance, peeling her eyes from the window. Her eyes fell on the dark corner of the chancery until a person''s silhouette grew clearer.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I supposed this is what they call a very productive day," remarked Aries with a tinge of ridicule. "I heard lots of good things about you, Giselle. It was an honor to have you here finally, though unannounced.

    eaglesnov?1,зуoзо The person in the dark corner of the chancery slowly slinked out of the shadows. There, revealed a person in a huge and ragged cloak.

    "Unannounced, but invited." A soft voice of a woman echoed in the quiet chancery, pulling the hood down to reveal her face. The woman''s eyes were closed, but her facial features were refined and pretty. "Greetings, Your Majesty. Apologies for my rude intrusion."

    "There were many things you need to apologize for, don''t you think?" Aries humored, smirking. "nting a spy on me, watching my every movement, and things one shouldn''t do to others. Won''t you apologize for them?"

    "I recall doing no such thing." Giselle, the blind woman, lowered her head. "However, I apologize if Your Majesty thinks like that."

    "Interesting choice of words." Aries rocked her head, chuckling with her lips closed. "Enough with the formalities. I was simply hoping you''d at least apologize to me. But well, I shouldn''t have put my hopes up."

    "So." Aries cleared her throat, looking at the blind woman with a curious look. "State your purpose. Why are you here?"

    The woman, Giselle, didn''t answer immediately. She had her eyes shut, but her face was facing in Aries''s direction. If Aries didn''t know the truth, she would think Giselle had other means to see.

    "I know you''ve been curious about the reason Miguel Rothschild looks like your brother, the crown prince of thend of Rikhill, Davien." Aries scoffed upon hearing Giselle''s opening remarks. "If you want to know the truth, meet me on the night of the coven on the first night of the full moon."

    "I will give you the truth you seek," Giselle added softly but with great certainty. "And I will cure Miguel Rothschild from the disease that had been eating him from the inside."

    Deep lines appeared between Aries''s brows.

    "This is a formal invitation from the Raven," Giselle spoke again. "It was our pleasure to have you there and set things back to their rightful ce."

    "You mean you are inviting me to a gathering where I, Aries Heathcliffe-Grimsbanne, would be the sacrificialmb?" Aries chuckled in mockery. "What makes you think I would walk to a death trap willingly?"

    "A gigantic magic circle surrounds the Maind бк by that, including the Forbidden Forest." Giselle didn''t waste a breath to answer. "You don''t want those children in the empty March to take your spot, don''t you, Your Majesty?"

    Aries secretly balled her hands into tight fists.

    "I don''t want to resort to such methods," continued Giselle as she slowly faded into the shadow. "I''ll see you on the first night of the full moon."

 Chapter 866 Accepting And Warning

    ?

    The Ravens.

    That was what the night council call themselves. Though people rarely speak of the name, even though the night council on the maind was known to everyone in thend.

    Aries was only on the maind for over two years, but she never actually participated in their nightly gathering. She was never invited, and she was never interested. However, she had an idea of Maximus IV''s rtionship with the Raven.

    Odd.

    Maximus never showed interest in the said council but was always mindful of them. There were times he would openly publicize his disgust to these nightly gatherings, and yet, Maximus IV never failed to miss it.

    For the woman at the helm, Giselle, to intrude on the queen''s chancery unannounced to invite Aries only meant Aries couldn''t stall time anymore. The Ravens were on the move.

    "A gigantic magic circle surrounds the Maind бк by that, including the Forbidden Forest. You don''t want those children in the empty March to take your spot, don''t you, Your Majesty?"

    "I don''t want to resort to such methods. I''ll see you on the first night of the full moon."

    Aries didn''t notice that the night fell deeper, sitting behind her desk for hours without unnecessary movements. Giselle''s remarks just kept repeating in her head over and over. Not like Giselle''s remarks would add more or get lesser, but Aries couldn''t get rid of it.

    For Giselle to personally invite Aries only meant Aries had no other choice. The magic circle could be a bluff, but at the same time, she couldn''t disregard itpletely.

    That woman was the ever-mysterious Giselle, who held a grudge against the Grimsbanne for a reason no one hasn''t reckoned yet. She was crazy.

    "The first night of the full moon," whispered Aries, blinking ever so tenderly. She slowly turned her head in the window''s direction, noticing that the beautiful silvering from the moon illuminated the greenery in the queen''s pce.

    Whoever designed the queen''s chancery had nothing in their mind but beauty and grandeur. The light of the moon and thenterns on the gravel path gave a perfect light for anyone; it was like a treat for the eyes.

    However, its beauty wasn''t enough to make the current queen feel better. If anything, it made her want to call Gustav and order him to set this garden on fire. It was useless.

    "Suzanne." After some time, Aries peeled her eyes from the window. She reached for the bell, ringing it as she called Suzanne for the second time.

    Right away, Suzanne came inside the chancery without knocking. The moment she did, Suzanne''s eyes went wide at how dark the queen''s chancery was. Aside from the window, there was not a single candle that was light up in the room. Aries would normally light up the candle on her desk; she hated being disturbed. The reason Suzanne didn''t bother Aries, knowing the Queen would prefer lighting up the chancery on her own.

    The Queen said it was therapeutic.

    "I''ll light up the room right away." Suzanne bowed in hurry, about to rush to the stand to light up the candbras when Aries spoke.

    "Not that." Suzanne halted, looking back at the queen behind the desk with wide eyes. "That, Suzanne."

    Suzanne followed Aries''s finger until her gaze fell on the window.

    "Set the garden on fire," Aries rified with a stern voice, making Suzanne look back at her with shock. "After reading the financial status of the pce, I realized we needed to cut our costs. Thus, tell everyone to blow out all the candles within the pce and then set fire to the queen''s garden."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Nonsense.

    No matter which angle Suzanne would look at Aries''s orders, it was nonsense. The royal treasury had wealth like no other. It was as equally wealthy as the Haimirich Empire, the wealthiest empire in the outside world.

    In other words, Aries lived and breathed in luxury. She could even buy a country if she so pleased. A financial problem was never or should never be her problem. Especially right now that the country''s economy was blossoming.

    "Your Majesty, apologies." Suzanne lowered her head, holding her hand tightly. "I think I didn''t hear you correctly."

    "No, you did, Suzanne." Suzanne raised her head to look at Aries. "Set the garden on fire."

    "But Your Majesty бк"

    "Set. It. Now." Aries''s expression didn''t even change, holding her handmaiden''s eyes. "Don''t make me repeat myself, Suzanne."

    Suzanne pressed her lips into a thin line, holding her breath. She assessed the queen''s eyes, and when she was certain that Her Majesty was dead serious about it, all she could do was lower her eyes.

    "As you wished, Your Majesty." Suzanne didn''t talk her out of it, leaving the queen''s chancery.

    *

    *

    *

    Countless knights and servants surrounded the queen''s garden, setting up parameters in case the fire crawled to the pce. Meanwhile, Aries stood in the Queen''s Chancery where she watched everything unfold from the beginning.

    She stood in front of the window, watching the knights and servants uproot the garden and set it on fire. The fire started small like a bonfire, but now it had garnered the attention of others as they rushed to the garden to put the fire out, only to be surprised that there were already people in the area.

    Aries raised her chin, eyes glinting menacingly. Her expression was cold and sharp, catching a familiar figure rushing to the queen''s garden.

    Miguel Rothschild.

    This man shouldn''t be in the pce anymore at this hour. However, Aries didn''t dwell on the reason he was present.

    "Only those who knew will know," she whispered, blinking ever so tenderly. Her eyes shifted to the fire, following the smoke that was trying to reach heaven. "The next time, not only I will set the queen''s garden on fire, but this cursednd."

    Aries knew that people бк not the best kind of people бк were watching her every move. Thus, burning the queen''s garden was set as a warning and eptance of the official invitation she received tonight from the Raven.

 Chapter 867 We All Wanted The Same Thing

    ?

    Meanwhile, in the house of Grimsbanneбн

    "There''s a fire in the pce." Lilou narrowed her eyes, looking in the pce''s direction from the window of her husband''s workshop. She had her arms folded under her chest, leaning her side against the jamb of the open window. "Should I check if Her Majesty was alright?"

    "Of course she is." Her husband, Samael, answered while working on the canvass he hadn''t touched for years. "I bet she''s the one who started the fire."

    "What do you think she means by it?"

    "Hmmбн" He hummed a long tune, taking a deliberate pause. The tip of his paintbrush moved away from the canvass, shifting his attention to where his wife was. "Maybe a warning?"

    "Uh." Lilou rocked her head in understanding. "A warning, huh? I guess the night council finally made their move."

    "They''ve been on the move for years, my love." Samael slowly ced the things in his hand on the stand nearby. He then took off his apron, wiping off the paint on his hands and arms. "Rather than on the move, they probably announced they couldn''t dy things any further."

    Samael strutted his way to his wife, wrapping his arms around her slender waist. He carefully twisted her until she was facing him, smiling as soon as he locked eyes with her dazzling pair of eyes.

    "Sam." Lilou sighed. "Have you seen Abel? He hadn''t gone back since he left a week ago and I''m getting worried."

    "Don''t mind him. Abel is Abel. Worrying about him is useless; the man does all crazy stuff one could think of." Hisck of worry about Abel appeared on his yful countenance. "Let''s just think about Sunny is already old enough. She can take care of a little Lilou."

    Lilou rolled her eyes, pping his chest mildly. "Sometimes, I can''t help but wonder if that is what you can think about."

    "I''m a man бк a simple man with needs."

    "Stop it." She pushed his chest away with little strength, but Samael pulled her waist closer. "Sam, we are on the maind. Do not forget what these people made us go through бк don''t forget how they ruined our peace for a reason until now it was yet disclosed."

    Samael pressed his lips into a thin line, staring at the solemn countenance dominating his wife''s face. "I never forget people''s kindness, my love. Which also means I never forget grudges."

    "What should we do now?" she asked with a shallow breath. "I don''t know Abel''s ns and Aries''s also has a different n. I''m worried."

    "My love, why are you so worried?" His eyes softened, smiling. "Abel and Aries had been through different levels of hell. I''m sure they understand each other even without a word uttered. Just like you and me."

    "But what if our ns don''t align with theirs?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "It will."

    "How are you sure?"

    "Because we all want the same thing, love." He pulled her waist closer as if the little gap between their bodies was still too wide. "And we have the same enemy. We worked and made alliances with many types of people in the past. Things work each time."

    Lilou bit her inner lower lips while staring at her husband''s reassuring smile. Another shallow breath slipped past her lips, nodding in understanding.

    "I guess it''s good that this is happening now," she muttered, snapping her eyes back to the window, where she could see the bright red and the thick smoke that was nearly piercing the clouds. "My patience is also running thin, after all. I don''t think I can stomach another year worrying about my family''s safety."

    "The feeling is mutual, love." Samael followed her gaze, eyes glinting menacingly as soon as his eyes fell on the fire in the pce. "I think everyone''s patience already runs thin as well."

    *******

    Somewhere on the maind, several people were watching the fire in the pce on the second floor of a private estate. Each balcony had at least four people, eyes in the same direction. The fire in the royal pce was huge enough to garner the attention of everyone in the capital.

    It wouldn''t be surprising if chaos would ensue tomorrow, asking about what happened tonight or whether the queen was alright. Thetter question was a little suspicious, knowing only a few cared about the new sovereign of thend.

    "I wonder if that is the answer to our invitation." One of the men on the balcony spoke. His voice was a little rasped and his eyes reflected the fire far away clearly.

    "Of course, Lord Rothschild." Beside him, a blind woman, who was also known as Giselle, answered with certainty in her voice. Lord Rothschild, Miguel''s father, turn his head to her before she continued. "She had no other choice but to ept our invitation. Even if the rtionship between the monarch and the council isplicated, she still has her responsibility to usбн just like how we have a responsibility to her."

    "Our n is to make sure she drops her alliance with the Grimsbanne," he repeated in a questioning tone as if he was trying to confirm their agenda. "Her Majesty is smart and cunning; I give that to her. However, she was also once a human. Humansбн their hearts were fickle. It worries me that making her take our side is impossible."

    "A human heart is truly appalling. However, that is the reason we waited until now." Giselle maintained her poker face while Lord Rothschild was staring at her side profile. "Her Majesty was capable of locking everyone she holds dear to protect them, even if it means she would be alone. I''m certain she would make the same decision in a heartbeat if she is left with no choice."

    The corner of Giselle''s lips curled up into a subtle smirk. Although it was subtle, Miguel''s father couldn''t help but swallow a mouthful of tension in his throat. He huffed faintly, peeling his eyes from her.

    "Please do not forget our deal, mydy," said Lord Rothschild, setting his eyes on the burning pce in a distance. "I made a promise to thete king to protect his wife, and I''m putting my faith in you. Pleaseбн save thisnd and Her Majesty from the clutches of the Grimsbanne."

    Giselle slowly opened her eyes, revealing her clouded pupils. "Certainly, my Lord. After all, you and I simply want the same thing."

 Chapter 868 Heartless Villain

    ?

    [ Queen''s Pce ]

    The crackle of fire resonated in the quiet area of the queen''s pce like a luby. Thick smoke ascended into the air and the suffocating smell of it wafted to everyone''s nostrils.

    Miguel breathed out, unfazed by the suffocating smell and the heat wave blowing past him. The wild ze mirrored in his shaking eyes, balling his hand into a tight fist.

    Miguel rushed into the queen''s garden as soon as he sensed the fire. To his dismay, many of the queen''s servants and soldiers were already in the area setting up parameters. The fire was intentional; it was the Queen''s order.

    What was she thinking?

    To be honest, Miguel dismissed the question. Whatever the reason behind this fire was not important. What was important was that the queen was showing her ws, showing everyone she could do anything she pleased. That might not be Aries''s intention, but this would surely be how others perceive her action.

    If she set the Queen''s garden on fire, what would she set on fire next?

    Miguel clenched his teeth and huffed quietly. He released his tight fist, turning around. He lifted his chin, setting his eyes on the floor where the Queen''s chancery was. As soon as his eyesnded on the window of the Queen''s Chancery, Miguel caught Aries back.

    Aries had already turned away when he looked up, barely giving him a chance to see the tip of her hair.

    "I should''ve listened to you," came out a whisper, recalling all her warnings previously. "Is this your way of telling your enemy that you are ready?" бк it must be.

    Based on Miguel''s observation, Aries didn''t seem the type to initiate chaos. She wouldn''t make a move unprovoked.

    "Something must''ve happened that forced her to resort to such an order," he told himself, peeling his eyes away from the window to the gigantic bonfire before him. "Was it them?"

    A glint flickered across his sharp eyes, assuming his father and that woman Giselle had something to do with this.

    "She''s right. I was focusing on the wrong things." Miguel slowly turned on his heel, walking away from the burning queen''s garden.

    Little did he know, on top of the queen''s pce was a crow. Its red eyes were kept on the retreating Miguel from the beginning until now. When Miguel walked away, the crow''s gaze followed his figure before it flew away.

    ******

    Somewhere in the heart of the capital, Abel was sitting leisurely on an estate''s balcony. His foot was swinging back and forth while the other was resting on the railing where he sat.

    "Don''t worry, darling." The corner of his lips curled up into a sinister smirk. "I won''t let you die. I told youбн if you die, I would as well. Dying now is a waste. The time we were together is still too short."

    "Can she even hear you?" Suddenly, a familiar feminine voice came to his side. Abel turned his head, only to see London marching on the balcony in his robe.

    London stood beside Abel, resting his arms against the railing. "The pce looks a bit festive tonight," hemented, gazing at the fire in the distance.

    "Ever since the maind entered a new era, there was never a dull day that had passed," added London, huffing. "And I can''t even say it was a good thing."

    "My wife is fun. So, of course, she sprinkles everything with a little bit of enjoyment." Abel shrugged, smirking proudly as if the underlying meaning behind his remarks were something he should be proud of. "Being in the pce is boring, after all."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    London cast Abel a side-eye. "There were days I doubted your feelings for Her Majesty."

    "As long as she doesn''t doubt my feelings, your confession is forgiven."

    "I don''t seek forgiveness." London looked away from him. "Anyway, if she set the queen''s pce on fire, that only means Giselle or anyone in the Raven approached her."

    "What a surprise."

    "You''re not worried about her?" London frowned at Abel''s sarcasm.

    "Will you repeat that question, Leviticus?"

    "Nevermind. It was a foolish question." London shook his head, recalling how Aries locked everyone in the Maleficent world for her own reason. Regardless of her reason, it was still wrong. She even locked her brother in London''s estate. Therefore, asking Abel if he was worried was foolish.

    Aries was a woman to be wary of, not worried about.

    "So, what now?" London changed the subject to a much more important matter. "You woulde here whenever you want, yet I get nothing from letting you stay in my house."

    "Don''t say you aren''t benefiting from it, London. You are alive." London looked back at Abel with thetter''s answer, only to see him shrug again. "Being alive is truly an underrated miracle people missed to be thankful for."

    "I guess that means you won''t tell me anything."

    "Do you really want to hear what Abel Grimsbanne is up to?" Abel arched his brows, staring at London straight in the eye. "Hmm?"

    London huffed quietly. "Now? I''d rather not." He shook his head and rolled his eyes. "I''m afraid once you tell me everything, that also meant it''s thest words I would hear."

    "Do you truly see me as someone awful?"

    "I see you as a heartless viin."

    "That hurts my feelings."

    "If it truly did, I''m d." London peeled his eyes away from Abel again, sniffing the air that carried the scent of sulfur. "Just so you know, Abel Grimsbanne, my alliance with the queen is limited to the agreement we had. If your ns will not align with mine, kill me now."

    He took a deliberate pause. "End me while you still have a chance because if you don''t, I''d assure you I will be one of your problems in the future."

    "Haha." The side of Abel''s lips stretched from one side until his teeth were showing. "Your honesty is perhaps a part of your charm. No wonder you survived this long, but don''t worry. I resolve all my problems easily. The only reason this had dragged for long was that my wife barely hung on the thin thread. She would be disheartened if anothernd fall in her reign бк there he is."

    Abel raised a hand while London watched him. Thetter shifted his eyes in the direction Abel was waving, only to see a crow fly to where they were.

 Chapter 869 Days Before The Hallow Night

    ?

    Daysterбн

    "What did you say?" Dexter almost spat out the tea when Aries spoke. His eyes shook in surprise, staring at Aries''s stoic countenance across from him. "Youбн what?"

    "I might die," Aries repeated, unfazed by the thought of death. "I''m telling you this not to worry you. As I''ve said, I received an official invitation from the Raven. If I don''t go, who knows what they''d do to the people in thisnd?"

    "Since when did you care about the people in this cursednd?" Dexter put down the cup of tea in utter disbelief at herck of reaction and emotion. "Aries, do you truly believe they will harm the people in thisnd? No. Do you believe they could harm the Grimsbanne? If they could touch the Grimsbanne, they would''ve done it long ago. However, they didn''t. The Grimsbanne weren''t called untouchable for nothing бк Have you mentioned this to your husband?"

    "I am aware, brother." Aries leaned backfortably, resting her jaw against her knuckles. "I wasn''t born yesterday to be shaken by such a petty threat."

    "Then why?" he gasped in disbelief, spreading his hands open. "Why would you volunteer to a coven you know might hurt you? Worse, lose your life? You have seen the coven in the empire, sister. It was hard to watch, let alone be a part of it."

    "I am the current sovereign of the Maind." Her voice was still soft and indifferent, but the firmness in it was clear. "Whether or not you approve of it, I have an obligation to fulfill."

    "You are the Queen because you didn''t have a choice."

    "Same goes with this matter." Her answer was quick, not giving him a second to breathe. "As I''ve said, I am telling you this not to stop me, neither I am asking for your help or support. I''m saying this because you are my brother and I think you deserve to know what your sister is up to."

    Dexter''s mouth parted to rebut, but his voice was stuck in his throat. All he could do for a moment was look at her with utter disbelief, shaking his head mildly.

    Dexter let out a sharp breath before pinching the bridge of his nose. "Please tell me you have a n."

    "I always have a n."

    "Will you let me in?" he peeked from one of his eyes, moving his hand away from his nose. "Don''t get me wrong. I am asking this not to stop you from doing whatever you have in mind, but to make sure you are will not die."

    Aries assessed her brother, smiling despite seeing him grind his teeth with eyes glinting menacingly.

    "Don''t give me that look, Aries." Dexter erected a finger, giving her a warning look. "Don''t smile like that."

    "Why?"

    "Because every time you do, you''re up to something that will anger me."

    "Pfft бк" Aries covered her lips with the back of her fist while Dexter huffed.

    "Sister,e on." His voice softened, almost sounding helpless. "I am at my wit''s end. You and I are utterly exhausted; I don''t remember resting for the past two years. All I want is to regain the life we once had."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    His expression turned sour as he lowered his eyes, remembering the life they had before Maximus came into the picture.

    "To be truthful, whenever I think about life back then, I feel ungrateful. Back then, I alwaysin about having to deal with the emperor''s whims and Conan''s constant nder. But now that I think about it, I have to admit it was rather peaceful." Dexter slowly raised his eyes, shing her a bitter smile. "The emperor might be unpredictable and would purposely press my nerves, but at least, I could just ignore his nonsense. It was the same with Conan''s regr yapping. I could sleep at night at peace, and wake up without wondering what sort of battle my sister is about to face."

    "If only I could return the time, I would''ve done it. But I can''t," he continued under his breath. "The only thing I could do is to be done with this and try to restore what we had. If all things seed, I promised to cherish all the dull days we would have."

    Aries''s countenance softened the more she listened to Dexter. She could rte. Not that she would constantlyin, but there were days she would seek some fun and adventure on the most boring days.

    How she regretted not appreciating those peaceful days; waking up next to her husband and making love with him until it was time to fulfill their duties as the emperor and empress of the empire. Those times she would have some tea with the people dear to her heart, listen to Conan''s yapping, and go on in a disguise with Abel to walk around the street of the capital.

    "Thank you." Aries broke her prolonged silence with a smile. "I won''t deny that the first night of the full moon scares me. It was the first reason I summoned you today. My brother is the best; you always make me feel better."

    "Aries, you know that is not what I am aiming for."

    "I know, but it put my heart at a lot of ease." She pressed her lips into a thin line with its sides curling up. "Thank you."

    Dexter was about to speak when he stopped furrowing his brows. "You said that was the first reason," he pointed out while his brows rose. "If that is the first, what is the second?"

    "You are also quick." Aries smiled. "The second reason is I have a request."

    "Anything," answered Dexter without thinking twice. "What do you need me to do?"

    "Brother, I didn''t put you in the cab for no reason."

    "I know."

    "Then I presumed you gained all the knowledge you need to gain in the royal library." Aries blinked ever so tenderly. "I need you to do something for me. I need you toбн"

    Dexter listened to Aries''s request attentively. His furrowed brows slowly uncreased, reced with a slight surprise.

    "You meanбн"

    "Deal with Miguel Rothschild," she asserted. "I will need him when the time is ripe. Can I trust you with that?"

 Chapter 870 The Princes Quarters

    ?

    Meanwhileбн

    Conan was pouting while sitting on therge couch in the prince''s quarters. His eyes scanned the people in the room; some of them were servants standing on the side while the rest were nobles upying the other seats.

    "Your Highness, the fire that happened in the queen''s pce a few nights ago raised a lot of concerns in the association," said a bearded man with genuine rm in his countenance. "Even though the pce tried to cover up the truth, many were not satisfied with the reason. They think the queen was losing her mind!"

    "If I were you, watch whates out of that mouth," Conan warned with a poker face. "The pce walls are thin."

    The bearded man immediately shut his lips, almost covering them with his hand.

    "Give me the names of those who are pressing the pce with already answered questions." Conan dropped his hand that was propped on his jaw. "I guess it was better if I invite them to the prince''s pce to offer them enlightenment. The Queen had a lot more pressing matter to tend to, after all."

    The three nobles who were allowed a private audience with the prince looked at each other. They didn''t speak a word, knowing many things could happen if they pointed fingers at anyone. Seeing their reaction and silence, Conan scoffed while shaking his head mildly.

    Ever since Aries ascended the throne, Conan also reimed his title as a prince. Many were dissatisfied with this, but Conan reimed his title rather easily because everyone was focused on Aries at that time. It was the same as how the Grimsbanne''s reinstatement.

    Conan also had to thank Maximus IV, though. Thetter had already cleaned up the royal pce of the members of the royal family. Some of their sisters were sent to marry into noble houses or convents, forfeiting their royal titles. Others were sent on an expedition, and that was thest time they heard of those princes. In other words, Conan was the only person in the pce who had royal blood in him.

    He had all the right to be in the position he was in right now. Therefore, Conan easily gained a bit of power in this unbridled power struggle within the pce walls.

    "I understand many of you chose to follow me due to the royal blood in me, regardless of my rtionship with the Queen and Abel Grimsbanne." Conan cleared his throat, tapping the armrest to get his guests'' attention. "I appreciate your trust and the faith you put in me. However, that didn''t mean I will directly oppose the queen just because she had no royal blood in her."

    "I know her," he continued, stressing his remarks as if to drill that fact into their little heads. "From an unbiased point of view, she is the best person ever to sit on that bloody throne. If only you give her a chance just like how you had given me бк even though I didn''t ask for it бк you''ll understand my sentiments."

    The nobles couldn''t help but frown and lower their eyes. Conan and Aries were two different people, and their situation was entirely different from one another. Conan had royal blood, and as the saying goes, blood was thicker than water. Many believed that Conan''s return to his post was the start of his enlightenment of what was within a royalty and their obligation to the maind. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Meanwhile, Aries was an outsider. The queen got to where she was now because she was as cunning as a fox. Not many were aware of the real reason behind Aries''s marriage with Maximus IV. Hence, many saw her as a seductress who meticulously nned to covet a power she shouldn''t have.

    It was almost amazing how one could contain or twist the information on the maind. The people here would usually believe what they heard first, after all. From here, one had a clear idea of what kind of reputation the Queen had in the territory.

    "Ry my word to the association," Conan broke the silence before it could dominate the prince''s quarters. "If the association truly supports me, then have faith in the queen, and I guarantee you thisnd will be untouched throughout her reign."

    "If you have no other matters to raise, you are dismissed," he added, waving dismissively. Conan nced at the servant standing in the corner, signaling him to escort the guests out.

    A deep exhale slipped past Conan''s nostrils as his guests and servants left his office. He unbuttoned the button of his cor, pushing himself up. Conan marched to the open window, standing before it to take a breather.

    "No wonder His Majesty enjoys pressing his ministers'' nerves," he muttered, taking a deep breath with his eyes closed. "They deserved it бк except me."

    Conan almost forgot to live a life of royalty, as he had lived with Abel in Haimirich for many years. He used to yap at Abel every time, but now, he sort of understands the man. Even if a person was in power, there were those people who would challenge that authority.

    "Hahбн I want to go home, buy all the best attire out there, and focus on settling down." Conan slowly reopened his eyes, mumbling about the things he almost forgot since the incident two years ago. As soon as his eyes fell on the greenery outside the prince''s quarters, deep lines appeared between his brows.

    "Miguel Rothschildбн" came out a whispered, narrowing his eyes, staring at the man walking in a direction. Conan watched Miguel hop over the low fence to get on the pce''s track.

    "I wonder if Her Majesty is right," he wondered. "Or you''re just another nuisance that needs to be silenced."

    The night of the coven was approaching, and everyone was on the move. Just like Conan, Aries, Abel and the Grimsbanne, and the Raven, Miguel was certainly up to something.

    "I hope you don''t disappoint." A glint flickered across Conan''s eyes, as his expression turned icy.

 Chapter 871 What A Shame

    ?

    Days and nights had passed more quietly than they ever were. For some, they would see it as a rather normal day they had to live бк another uneventful day, as they call it. Others might say otherwise.

    Aries, for instance, had been the busiest. On top of fulfilling her royal duties as the only sovereign of the kingdom, she had been busy preparing herself for her first participation in the coven. The news of her participation in the coven had already reached many people''s ears.

    One of them was Miguel Rothschild.

    "Apologies, my lord, but the queen cannot grant you permission for a private audience." Gustav ryed the news to Miguel Rothschild, bowing slightly to express his sincerity. "She said she will invite you next time."

    Miguel frowned, watching how Gustav uncurled his back. "I heard she will attend her first coven as the Queen. The Rothschild had been an active participant of the coven and thus, shouldn''t she need guidance?"

    "I understand your point and surely, Her Majesty appreciates your lordship''s good intention. However, I don''t think she wants to see you, Lord Miguel." Gustav maintained his polite smile, but his remarks were direct to the point. "I''m certain only you know the reason for that."

    Miguel''s lips parted to make Gustav listen to him. However, before his voice could roll out of his mouth, he shut them again.

    "Please wait until the Queen sends you an invitation to her pce." Gustav bowed again upon reassuring Miguel already realized arguing with him was pointless. "If that is all, my queen needs me and must return to her side. Have a good day, my lord."

    With that being said, Gustav turned on his heel to face the two knights guarding a door. Everyone who wanted to see the queen had to go through Gustav. Unless they received a personal invitation from Aries or Aries informed him she was expecting a guest, everyone had to request an audience with Gustav first.

    "Lord Chambein," called Miguel, just as Gustav took a step away. "I am the Queen''s subject and will put my life on the line for her."

    Gustav smiled subtly as he looked back at him. "I''ll surely ry that to Her Majesty."

    This time, Miguel didn''t stop Gustav as thetter walked back inside the door. Miguel stood still before the door with the marshals outside guarding it.

    Thest time he had a meeting with Aries, she told him not to show his face to her. He understood her frustration, knowing he was at fault for interrogating her and approaching her without concrete evidence that could back up his im. She took it as Miguel taking the Queen lightly.

    ''She wasn''t wrong, though,'' he mentally sighed, turning his heel to the side. ''I might''ve subconsciously taken her lightly.''

    Miguel dragged his feet to the corridor, bearing a gloomy air around him. At the end of the day, Aries was the queen. Her every decision could affect millions of vampires on the maind бк it could even affect thend itself. She couldn''t just listen to Miguel''sst request because the trade in recent years had supported the maind''s best interest.

    Therefore, Miguel could fully understand Aries was upset with him. Almost everyone on the maind already had a biased perception of her. Hisck of preparation during theirst meeting was disrespectful.

    As Miguel reached the entrance of the Queen''s Pce, hisnguid steps slowly came to a halt. His eyes slowly panned up, setting them on the person standing a meter from his vantage point.

    Dexter Vandran.

    Dexter sized him up from head to toe and Miguel could tell the former had guessed the reason for his gloomy mood. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "She can be a bit stubborn and sensitive," said Dexter in an amicable tone. "Do not take it to heart."

    *

    *

    *

    *

    Miguel couldn''t remember bonding with Dexter for thetter to invite him to share a cup of tea. The only interactions they had were a little odd бк most of them, there was tension between them.

    Miguel assumed the tension originated from the fact that Dexter was originally one of Abel''s henchmen. But perhaps he was wrong. Not that he personally disliked Dexter; Dexter was a smart man and someone who could hold a proper conversation. He was much better than most noblemen on the maind.

    "Do you always invite people to join you for tea?" asked Miguel, watching Dexter skillfully steep the tea.

    "I hated tea for many years," Dexterughed, snapping his eyes at Miguel. "However, my sister enjoys it so much she would constantly barge into my office and force me to share one with her."

    "I guess she had done it so often with how skillful you are."

    "A few times a day." Dexter shrugged, leaning back against the chair as he steeped the tea. "Anyone would gain the skill if it''s that often."

    One thing Miguel had realized whenever he interacted with Dexter was that thetter wasn''t only smart, but also distant. Dexter appeared to be the type to mind his own business. However, there was always softness in his eyes whenever he would talk about Aries.

    One might mistake that Aries was his lover if they weren''t aware she was his sister. But then again, being siblings wasn''t enough to stop vampires from being together. If anything, most noble vampires prefer marrying another family member to preserve the purity of their blood.

    ''I don''t mean to offend, but Dexter Vandran and Her Majesty were both turned бк what a shame...''Miguel''s thoughts stopped at the scandalous idea that crossed his mind. ''What the hell am I thinking?''

    Not only was the thought nasty, but the feeling it left in his heart wasn''t pleasant. Knowing Aries was once married to Abel бк to multiple men in the past бк was something Miguel often avoided. He didn''t want to look at the Queen in that type of light.

    "It seemed many things bother your lordship." Dexter''s faint chuckle brought Miguel back to the currentpse. Miguel slowly refocused his attention on Dexter, only to see thetter working on the teapot before him. "I wanted to say a reputable person such as yourself is a busy man, and thus, it is understandable that many things upy your mind. However, my gut feeling says otherwise."

    Dexter paused to hold Miguel''s gaze. "I hope I''m wrong. Otherwise, I''d hate to keep you on my bad side."

 Chapter 872 Whats Rotten Will Eventually Smell

    ?

    "I hope I''m wrong. Otherwise, I''d hate to keep you on my bad side."

    "It''sбн It''s definitely not that."

    "You gotta work on that area." Dexterughed. "You seriously don''t know how to bluff бк how adorable."

    Dexter poured the empty cups some tea and added, "I won''t press you to tell me your thoughts; they''re yours. Though I now understand why Her Majesty was upset with you."

    "You are foolish." Dexter slid the saucer with the teacup on it. "If you are not a Rothschild, it''ll be a mystery how you survived this long in thisnd."

    "Foolishбн" Miguel let out a faint chuckle. "Many people have said that. I guess I am foolish, though I am neither proud nor embarrassed about it."

    "I guess that''s your charm." Dexter leaned back, motioning his hand to signal him to drink. "Well, I didn''t invite you to a cup of tea to humiliate you."

    "You need more than words to humiliate me."

    Dexter shrugged. "Soбн Her Majesty didn''t ept your request to see her?"

    "I wouldn''t be here if she did."

    "It''s not like you expected her to see you anyway." Deep lines instantly appeared between Miguel''s brows upon Dexter''s remarks. "My sister and I have a bond like no other. We might''ve been born into different families and at different times, but in our hearts and soul, we are family. Of course, she would confide in me. Especially in a ce where she has to be wary of everything."

    In other words, Dexter was aware of Aries and Miguel''sst interaction.

    "I know you are close with Her Majesty, but I guess you were closer than I thought." Miguel let out a faintugh, bending over to pick up the cup of tea. "I''m surprised Abel Grimsbanne was fine with that. I heard he was a possessive man."

    "He is, but if you know her story, you''d know why even the most notorious Grimsbanne would go above, beyond, and after to understand her." Dexter watched Miguel take a sip, blinking ever so tenderly. "Her pastбн She rarely talks about it."

    Miguel paused, gazing over the rim of the cup.

    "What I am saying is, she let you in, didn''t she?" Miguel slowly put down the cup while Dexter kept his gaze on him. "She might not have said it directly, but she didn''t stop you from knowing. Has it ever crossed you what''s her reason for that?"

    "My sister has been through hell and back countless times, Count. If you think she is heartless or inconsiderate, that''s because she is. She even locked her own brother in a highly secured estate for years," added Dexter with a tinge of disappointment in his tone. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "If she had done that, why are you still on her side?"

    "Because we''re family."

    "Familyбн so, you''re letting her do what she wants even if it''s wrong because she''s your family?" Miguel scoffed, but Dexter was unfazed.

    "You are missing the point, my lord." Dexter let out a faint sigh. "What is wrong? What is right? In thisnd where selling and purchasing werewolves'' pelts was amon practice, was there ever a clear line of what''s right or wrong?"

    Miguel''s breath hitched upon hearing a sensitive topic. That was true. On the maind, nobles wore a werewolf''s fur; their teeth were sold to create the sharpest des and many other things were called legal in the country. Witches, sirens, and even the rarest creatures were put on a bidding event to serve the vampires in their best interest.

    Having permission to go in and out of the Maind under the guise of his expedition, Miguel was aware of his people''s cruelty. Not that he didn''t see the problem just because he was raised in such an environment, but Miguel said nothing because no one could freely enter the maind, let alone leave it.

    It was the main reason Miguel kept a close eye on the fort. The influx of trades worried him, knowing a huge problem would ur if the outside world discovered these practices. The Maind would definitely warrant countless enemies бк humans were the least of their concerns.

    Dexter rocked his head as he continued. "Now you see the problem with your argument? My sister is a loving, caring, and kind person to me. She does everything to protect her people. However, she might be the main viin to you or everyone in thisnd."

    "Still, one fact remains. They wanted her here." This time, Dexter''s tone grew solemn and stern. "Thete Maximus IV dragged her into thisnd and made her Queen. His death didn''t give her freedom to leave, but rather, was used as another chain that bound her other foot."

    "Howe you treat her as the aggressor when she is only responding to an action?" he cocked his head to the side, bearing no emotion on his face.

    "I never treated Her Majesty as an aggressor. It didn''t even cross my mind." Miguel shook his head in defense. "I am on her side бк"

    "You are on her side under a condition, Count." Dexter cut him off mid-sentence, rendering Miguel speechless for that was the truth. "You want her to be the Queen, the sovereign, you have in your mind. Someone who would put the Maind''s best interest before hers."

    "Is there something wrong with that? Being a sovereignes with a price. What I am expecting from her was a duty that all kings had to do."

    "If doing her royal duties was the only method to be epted, then why does thisnd want her dead?" Dexter''s argument was quick. "Her Majesty had been doing her duties properly and had exercised her authority justly. However, the people here want to bury her just because of her affiliation with the Grimsbanne."

    Dexter took a deliberate pause as he leaned forward, resting his arm on his thigh, eyes fixed on Miguel. "You people and thisnd don''t want peace, and you know that very well, Count. What thisnd wants isn''t to avoid blood from spilling, but to cease all threats that are in their way."

    "First, the Grimsbanne and the power of Maleficent. Once these people seed in ending those I mentioned, who''s next?" Dexter continued solemnly, waiting for an answer that obviously didn''te. "The Maind will definitely open its forts, not for entry, but to let out the prisoners of thisnd to conquer everynd they step on. You can deny or hide this all you want, but what''s rotten will eventually smell."

 Chapter 873 Easier Said Than Done

    ?

    "It''s interesting to see the respectable heir of the Rothschild on my way here. From what I saw, it seemed you rattled him a little." London pranced inside Dexter''s small office, helping himself to get a seat since Dexter wouldn''t offer him one. "I don''t know the details of Her Majesty''s order, but if I remember correctly, Her Majesty wants you to coax him, not scare him."

    Dexter was standing in front of the window, eyes on the distant driveway where he could see Miguel ride his steed. Some royal knights were assisting the Count as they brought his steed.

    "He is in denial. Coaxing him will not make him dance in her tune," answered Dexter, watching how Miguel gallop away from the pce. "What a silly man."

    "You can''t me him." London shrugged, pouring himself tea. "The Rothschild were loyal supporters of the royal family. Many say the Rothschild wants to covet the power of the royal family бк the king''s power. However, I can attest they would never do that."

    London paused, leaning back against the chair with the cup of tea in his grip. "The Rothschild was a part of the founding families in the Maind. For them, the Maind was absolute. They see nothing wrong here. Perhaps you could say they were that ignorant, for they were so loyal they never went out to see how vast the rest of the world is."

    "Miguel was granted a chance to go in and out of thisnd. Therefore, he was exposed to life beyond the mysterious borders of the maind," he added in a knowing tone, taking a sip before continuing. "He was a righteous man. Witnessing that the practices on the maind were nothing but cruelty definitely rattled him. Therefore, he was torn between his love for his country and his so-called morals."

    Dexter had figured that out, but he kept silent. Meanwhile, London enjoyed the rest of his tea in silence.

    "I understand the Count''s dilemma бк my sister is also aware of that." Dexter broke his prolonged silence with a narrowed eye. "But what I couldn''t understand until now is why did they allow Miguel Rothschild out of the territory of the Maind? I don''t think the n head was that oblivious of the outside world."

    "If I only know, you wouldn''t have to wonder," London replied. "I was also curious and even asked the Duke бк in a roundabout way, of course."

    "And his answer?" Dexter looked back ever so slowly.

    London shrugged. "Because Miguel Rothschild was his heir. It was part of the training before inheriting his title. It was more like passing a family secret to the next heir sort of thing, but somehow, I can''t just fully believe it, no matter how the argument made sense."

    "And why is that?"

    "I don''t know." A smile turned up on London''s beautiful face. "Gut feeling?"

    Dexter wanted to argue or press on the matter until he would get more hints from London. However, upon assessing this female-looking man, Dexter was certain London was holding back information.

    London wasn''t lying.

    "Gut feeling, huh?" Dexter rocked his head before marching to the bookshelf in the corner.

    "I lived a life longer than you did. I can safely say it is thanks to my gut feeling. It saved me countless times in the past and the present." London kept his gaze on Dexter''s figure while maintaining his smile. "The full moon is approaching. You were rather rxed than I expected you to be."

    "If you came here to get more information than you are already given, you came to the wrong ce. I only know the orders I received бк nothing more, nothing less." Dexter''s tone had a tinge of disinterest, brushing the books on the shelves with his fingertips. When his finger stopped on a particr book, he tipped it back.<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "That''s a shame." London sighed, watching Dexter face his direction again. "It bothers me that up until thest minute of the Queen''s first coven, I am still unsure whether I''d be your ally or enemy."

    "Either way, it''s still good that you are not pressured to side with anyone."

    "Now that you mentioned it, are you not pressured, Marquess?"

    Dexter didn''t answer immediately as he smiled. "I don''t think you were that unsure whether you''d be the Queen''s ally or not. I think you already know the answer for yourself. Abel visits you, doesn''t he? I''m sure he already gave you a hint."

    "You think too highly of your emperor."

    "Trust me, I don''t." Dexter chuckled, marching to the chair behind the desk near the set of chairs where London perched. When Dexter found hisfort in his seat, he raised his gaze to the guest of his office.

    "Abel is a generous manбн which made people wish he wasn''t." Dexter shed London a friendly smile, but his polite smile somehow irritated London. "I am someone who received that benevolence, after all. And I wasn''t thankful for that generosity even one bit."

    The natural smirk that London always wore slowly faded while holding Dexter''s gaze. Thetter surely knew how to talk. London remembered being the person who would get on Dexter''s nerves with every opportunity he could get, but now the tables had turned.

    "You are right." London let out a sharp breath as he ced the empty teacup back on the table. "Abel is a generous man, and I wish he wasn''t."

    London ced his hand on his thigh, pushing himself up. He slowly faced Dexter''s desk, carrying a solemn look on his face. His eyes were distant; a look that rarely appeared on his pretty face.

    "The tea you brew is by far one of the best I had for many years. It''s a shame I didn''t try hard to learn your techniques." London sighed in disappointment.

    "I guess this is farewell," said Dexter. "I shouldn''t be rying my gratitude for imprisoning me, but I appreciate your effort to help my sister."

    "It was a trade. There''s no need for words of gratitude. Very well бк it was nice meeting you. I supposed the next time we meet, it''ll be a little different." London beckoned a neck bow. "Until then."

    Just as London turned around to leave, Dexter propped his arms against the edge of the desk and spoke.

    "If you already know where to stand, why are you waiting for things to happen first? You could prevent the worst, Leviticus." This was probably the only chance Dexter could have to ask this question.

    London stood still as he lowered his head. The corner of his lips curled up bitterly.

    "You can say it is the same reason as the Count." London looked back at him. "This matter is more personal than it appeared, and things had always been easier said than done."

 Chapter 874 The Queens Resolve

    ?

    "This matter is more personal than it appeared and things are easier said than done."

    Dexter could never argue with that. Things had always been easier said than done, and that was an undeniable fact. Even though London had rebelled against the royal family бк against thete Maximus IV бк he had done so with his people in mind.

    The situation this time was different.

    This time, the brewing tension behind the grandeur of the royal pce was much more intense than it ever was. One could imagine the consequence once this blew out of proportion.

    "It wasn''t just an if." Dexter blinked ever so tenderly. He was still sitting on the chair behind the desk, setting his gaze on the window. "Things will surely blow out of proportion and thisnd will enter an era they aren''t prepared for."

    Although winning wasn''t crystal clear as their foe wasn''t someone to be underestimated, Aries was dead set to end this once and for all. Not just her, but Abel and the Grimsbanne were determined to reim their freedom.

    Dexter was just as determined to protect his sister. Their enemies were just as undaunted.

    "This is whyбн I would never be grateful for Abel''s benevolence. I wanted to me him for everythingбн" Dexter secretly med Abel for why Aries had to go through another hell, but that wasn''t enough to stop him from helping them.

    Dexter leaned back ever so slowly, resting his back against the chair, leaving the book of records open. He cocked his head back, eyes shut.

    "The night of the coven will be a long one," came out a whisper while his body rxed in the chair. "I wonderбн"

    He slowly reopened his eyes, catching the ceiling instantly. "... if we should go back to Haimirich and return to our lives, or was it better to start anew?"

    ******

    QUEEN''s PALACE: GARDEN

    "Risk his life for me, huh?" Aries chuckled when Gustav ryed Miguel Rothschild''s words to her. She had been busy all day, and only now did Gustav was able to ry Miguel''s words to her.

    "I don''t rememberughing today." She continued tough while shaking her head. "That was enlivening. I feel like I can go on for several more hours of work."

    Gustav sighed, standing near where Aries perched as she enjoyed a cup of tea after hours of work.

    "Mydy бк Your Majesty, the Count seemed sincere," he remarked politely. "I think he is a good addition to your forces if the Marquess persuades him a little more."

    "Persuade him?" Aries smirked, casting Gustav. "Gustav, you speak as though you did not serve my brother for centuries. As far as I remember, you also served Abel. Therefore, I expect a more sensible suggestion from you."

    "I am simply thinking of Your Majesty." Gustav pressed his lips into a thin line. His eyes swirled with genuine worry. "You don''t want to hurt him."<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    The smile lines on the corner of her lips waned.

    "I, Gustav, pledged to follow your words without questions asked. Using my body to shield you was something I''d do without orders. Still, I may shield you from all iing attacks, but I am powerless if it''s your heart." Gustav lowered his head.

    Gustav wanted to borate or say more, but he knew where to stand. He didn''t want to mention how Aries witnessed how her brother, Davien, died for her, and now she might experience that again since Miguel carried Davien''s face.

    This time, however, Aries might take Miguel''s life with her own hands if worsees to worst. Just the thought of it, Gustav could already imagine the pain that Aries had to endure again.

    The sternness that was dominating Aries''s face softened. Her eyes were fixed on the bowing Gustav, smiling subtly.

    "Just knowing you know what I am expecting puts my heart at ease." She peeled her gaze from him while Gustav straightened his back. "I held back ever since meeting Miguel Rothschild. After all, he doesn''t only resemble my brother, but the resemnce in their personality was uncanny."

    "They were both foolish and idealistic бк always so optimistic." She bent over to pick up the cup of tea. "They believed everything is negotiable; that peace is easily attained. That is why he diedбн and I won''t be surprised if he dies again for the same damn reason."

    Her eyelids drooped as she took a sip, swallowing down the bitter taste of the tea. She licked her lips as she ced the cup down.

    "I med myself the first time," she continued after a minute, facing Gustav this time. "If that face dies again under the same reason, then that''s his fault this time."

    "I lost everything once: my family, mynd, my people, my dignity, even my sanity. I cannot allow that to happen again just because someone who looks exactly like my brother is in the way." Her tone this time carried an unbendable determination. "It might hurt, yes. However, I am no longer the Aries I was years ago. I am now a part of the Grimsbanne, the holder of Maleficent, was the Empress of two mighty empires, the crown princess of Rikhill, and now the Queen of thend of Vampires."

    "I already sacrificed many things to reach this point in my life, Gustav. Therefore, you do not need to worry about my welfare." Aries smiled. It was a short smile, but it was genuine and full of sincerity and reassurance. "I am fighting not to die, but to live."

    Gustav studied Aries''s countenance and secretly sighed in relief. "Your Majesty sounds more confident and feels more reassuring when you''re honest."

    "You and my brother are too sensitive when ites to me. Not that I amining," she humored, shifting her eyes behind Gustav as Suzanne came into sight.

    Sensing a presence behind him, Gustav nced over his shoulder. When he saw Suzanne, he faced Aries again.

    "I will excuse myself first, Your Majesty," he politely excused himself with a bow, then greeted Suzanne with a slight nod. Suzanne nodded back but remained quiet until Gustav left the Queen''s Garden.

    "The witches have sent word, Your Majesty," Suzanne announced, making Aries''s soft countenance sharpen. "They are ready for tomorrow night''s full moon."

    The corner of Aries''s lips curled up into a devious smirk as a glint flickered across her eyes.

 Chapter 875 Promise

    ?

    HOUSE OF GRIMSBANNE

    "Ughбн" Abel grunted as he sat up on the edge of his bed, stretching his neck from one side to the other. His hands were gripping the edge of the mattress, eyes shut.

    When he reopened his eyes, a glint flickered across his naturally sharp eyes. "You should learn how to knock, sister. Else, you might give someone a heart attack."

    Standing meters from the bed was Abel''s sister, Tilly, in her in white dress and in countenance. Her long white hair had grown so long that, even when it was tied up, its tip could still reach the floor. Tilly remained silent as usual, but her eyes sized up his back.

    Abel was wearing a robe, but she could see bruises reaching up around his nape. They looked bad.

    "Those bruisesбн" she trailed off as she blinked ever so tenderly while Abel looked back at her. "... will you not change your mind?"

    "I rarely change my mind, sister." Abel shrugged indifferently, pulling up the robe to cover his nape. He then unhurriedly stood from the side of the bed, facing his sister whilst tying its belt. "I should be the one asking. After all, you''ve stayed on the Maind for a very long time. Have you not grown attached to this piece ofnd?"

    Tilly blinked innocently. "Samael and everyone has been curious about your n. They do not appreciate that you wouldn''t let them in."

    "You could''ve just told them what I am nning to do. It''s not like they are dumb."

    "I am not in the position to do so."

    "Tilly, my sister." Abel crossed his arm under his chest, smirking appreciatively at Tilly. "You never cease to baffle me."

    "Samael, Lilou, and everyone are willing to help the Queen. I might not join in the coven."

    "Are you asking for my permission?"

    "I will secure the children''s safety first." Tilly''s expression didn''t change, nor did she ever look away from him. "However, if the situation requires my presence, I would be there."

    Abel maintained his smirk, chuckling with his lips closed, eyes fixed on Tilly. "How reassuring."

    "Abel," she called, but let several seconds of silence pass. "I will not ask you to be safe, but remind you that a battle between a Grimsbanne just doesn''t end unless one takes hisst breath. I do not want to fight you. Do not force me."

    "A battle between you and meбн I''m sure you''ll die," Abel confidently remarked, but Tilly''s expression remained cold. "Do not worry, sister. The only sister I want to strangle is that damn Marse бк you are too precious to die. Moreover, I still need you alive, just like how you perceive my existence as beneficial."

    Abel shrugged nonchntly as he dragged his feet to the stand where sses and a decanter were ced. As he poured himself a ss of wine, he continued his sentiments.

    "Do not worry, sister. I am already grateful that you will go all out to protect my wifeбн" Abel picked up the ss full of wine before facing his sister once again. "... because my patience had long died."

    This time, Tilly''s jaw tightened while watching Abel drink a mouthful of wine. "How about this house?"

    Abel shrugged as an answer, cheeks puffed, before swallowing down the wine.

    "As I''ve said, you are the only person who lived in this ce for a long time." Abel winced slightly, pointing at her with the hand that was holding the ss. "If you ask me, I''d rather say burn it to the ground. Althoughбн you don''t really have to. If you know what I mean."

    Tilly''s in expression didn''t change even when their conversation ended. All she did was stare at Abel, watching the man enjoy his morning wine before he pranced to his wardrobe to change.

    *

    *

    *

    "Mister Fabian?" Fabian, who was busy watering the growing flowers in the mansion''s garden, turned his head to Sunny. A smile instantly dominated his face as soon as his eyesnded on the adorable young miss of the family.

    "Yes, my youngdy?" Fabian put down the watering can, squatting down in front of Sunny.<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Sunny pressed her lips into a thin line, making her already plump cheek looked bigger. "Hmmбн is tomorrow the night of the full moon?"

    "Yes."

    "Then, does that mean something bad will happen?"

    "Yes."

    "How bad?"

    Fabian rubbed his chin and hummed a tune, but before he could answer, Sunny''s guess flew out of her mouth.

    "A mass destruction?" she guessed, and Fabian''s brows rose. However, instead of denying it or rewording it to distract a child like a proper adult, Fabian didn''t.

    "Yes, young miss. A massacre," he rified. "The thing is, we might be the one who was on the receiving end."

    "You mean we will get ughtered like pigs?"

    "Yes. They will ughter us like animals."

    "And then eat us?"

    "My precious youngdy, please do not let the madam know I spoke of these things." Fabian kept his smile with his eyes squinting like mere lines. "If she asked, say it was Abel."

    Sunny nodded. "Because you will get in trouble?"

    "Yes."

    "How about my grandpa?"

    "He is already in trouble, my little miss. Adding another one will not make it any worse."

    "Will Grandpa die?" Sunny sighed. She had lived under Abel''s wing for years, and thus, she had grown attached to the people in the empire.

    "He won''tбн" Fabian''s squinting eyes slowly opened as the smile lines on the corner of his lips faded. "... unless, Her Majesty dies. Then not only he will die, but I will as well."

    Sunny cocked her head to the side, blinking innocently. "It will make you sad?"

    Fabian didn''t answer immediately as his eyes squinted again. He raised a hand and nted it on top of her head, ruffling her hair affectionately.

    "Yes, my little young miss. It will certainly make me sad," he remarked, knowing this tant lie wouldn''t go past Sunny''s keen eyes.

    This young girl might act like an innocent child, but everyone was aware Sunny was much more cunning and mature for her age. Even so, everyone still treated her as a child with love, care, and attention.

    "It will make Sunny sad, too." Sunny smiled, not prying on the obvious. "Tilly said we will leave tonight, but everybody else will stay in the mansion. Will youe to us after tomorrow''s coven, Mister Fabian?"

    "Of course."

    "Promise?"

    Fabian''s eyes fell on Sunny''s little pinky, which made him chuckle. He wrapped his pinky around hers, nodding as he said, "Promise."

 Chapter 876 Checking Everyones Mental State

    ?

    "You look gloomy; something I should''ve expected when I saw you going into his room."

    Tilly stopped in her tracks as soon as she reached the mezzanine of the mansion. She raised her gaze, setting them on her nephew, Samael. Samael was leaning against the railing with his back, arms crossed, eyes bearing a tinge of yfulness.

    "This is unlike you, Tilly," Samael continued, smacking his lips as he added, "but then again, he is your brother. Of course, you will be worried about him."

    "I am not worried about Abel," denied Tilly with her ever-toneless voice. "I simply checked on him."

    Samaelughed. "And what is your verdict?"

    "It''s war." Her voice still sounded the same, but the sense of firmness in it was apparent. "I will take the children this time; Law, Sunny, and even ude. They wille with me."

    "We already talked about this and they already agreed." Samael rocked his head in understanding, knowing they could only fight all out if their children were in a safe ce. And by that, he meant out of the maind. After all, no ce on the maind was safe, even in this forbidden forest.

    "Well." Samael peeled his back from the railing and unfolded his arms. "It''s good that Abel is still in his right state of mind. Now, I am at peace. So if you excuse me, I''ll help my wife prepare the things you might need on your way back to Haimirich."

    Samael didn''t idle as he strutted away while Tilly stood still. A shallow breath slipped past her lips, dragging her feet near the railing where Samael stood to scan the first floor of the mansion.

    The Grimsbanne Mansion was huge; it was bigger than most noble estates on the maind. The reason for that was that the Grimsbannes had to live with each other. However, they didn''t have that close rtionship with one another. If anything, they wanted to avoid each other at all costs. Thus, the exnation of the size of the mansion.

    It wasn''t just a disy of wealth or power, but a solution to theirck of freedom.

    Tilly lived in this mansion all alone until her nephew, Ameria''s son, came with his family.

    "This house only carried memories since they came," came out a whisper, sighing. "Perhaps, this house knew all along a day wille when it will rest along with the ashes of the Grimsbanne it sheltered."

    ***********

    THE PRINCE''s PALACE

    Conan was pacing back and forth inside his chancery, biting the tip of his thumb. His eyes were sharp as he kept them on the floor, showing how his mind was drifting elsewhere.

    "Are you nervous?" Suddenly, the other person sitting in the seats within the prince''s chancery spoke.

    Conan stopped, setting his eyes on his guest. "Do I look like I''m excited, Deadmore?"

    "You look like you have many things on your mind." Isaiah shrugged. "Tomorrow''s the coven, and many people are already deserting this ce. It only means they were aware the coven will not end in peace."

    "No matter how much I hated this ce, I couldn''t deny they offer the best and mostfortable clothes in the world." Conan shrugged, dragging himself to the divan across Isaiah. He threw himself on it and sighed once again. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "I need to ship more of my clothes to a safer ce," he murmured. "But I don''t have enough time for that."

    Just how big was this man''s wardrobe?

    Isaiah would dwell on that question if he didn''t know Conan. But he lived with him and tolerated him so that Isaiah could estimate how many rooms Conan''s clothes upied in this pce.

    "People are leaving, carrying only what''s necessary," remarked Isaiah to this insensitived. "Yet, you are grumbling about losing just a few pieces of clothes."

    "You don''t understand!" Conan sat up aggressively. "You are not a parent nor a collector to understand my heart!"

    Isaiah tilted his head to the side. "I don''t understand the argument."

    "Even if you try, you never will." Conan sighed heavily once again, wobbling back on the divan. "I have a very sensitive skin condition that simple clothes will give me rashes across my body."

    ''I never heard of that,'' thought Isaiah, watching how Conan dramatically whimpered about his ''condition.''

    "This sounds like you," Isaiah spoke again after a minute of listening to Conan''s woes, nting his hands on his thigh to push himself up. "I guess you are alright."

    "Wait бк where are you going?" Conan jumped from his seat when Isaiah stood.

    "I am one of the people who will leave thisnd to avoid the repercussions of tomorrow''s coven."

    "What?!" Conan gasped. "You will leave? Where? Did you get His Majesty''s permission?"

    "I cannot disclose our destination. The walls of the royal pce are thin. You never know who''s listening." Isaiah faced Conan squarely. "If you have important pieces you want to secure, send them over to the House Leviticus. I''ll pick them up there tonight."

    "You''re really leaving?" A frown reced the shock on Conan''s face, but he was unable to conceal the twinkle in his eyes. "Very well. If that is what you have to do, take care of my clothes."

    ''I''m d he really is fine,'' Isaiah secretly sighed in relief, seeing that Conan had enough energy to worry about his clothes. Isaiah might not understand Conan about his fixation on clothes, but he knew those were Conan''s valuable treasures.

    "Well, then." Isaiah beckoned a neck bow before turning on his heel and walking away from Conan''s chancery. Meanwhile, as he was walking away, Conan continuously spoke good luck to him and reminded him of the clothes he would send over to London''s estate.

    As soon as Isaiah shut the door behind him, a smile turned up on his face. He looked back at the shut door and sighed.

    "You better emerge from this or else, no one else will wear those shy attires," whispered Isaiah before resuming his steps, leaving the prince''s quarters, knowing this would be thest time he would be here.

 Chapter 877 Miguels Last Attempt

    ?

    "Take care, alright? Don''t worry about anything in here and just make sure to take care of the things you have to protectбн!" Conan continuously waved in Isaiah''s direction until the door shut closed. The deep lines on the corner of his lips faded, dropping his hand to his side.

    Conan let out a deep exhale. "I don''t know why His Majesty allowed him to go, but I guess Haimirich had been in the back of his mind."

    Beforeing to the Maind, Tilly left Haimirich her blessing. Still, leaving it without anyone guarding it was dangerous. They could just desert it and start anew, but whether they admit it or not, the empire had been their home. Abel''s reason for establishing an empire might have originated from cruelty, but after many years, it was impossible to not have the slightest attachment to it.

    "Ahhбн what a bother!" Conan dragged his feet to the divan, throwing himself on itzily. "Tomorrow nightбн for some reason, I feel so restless."

    Another sigh slipped past Conan''s lips, closing his eyes to rest. When he reopened his eyes, the first thing he saw was the high ceiling of his quarters.

    "Fourthбн" came out a whisper, having all sorts of shbacks from when the time he was still a prince of thisnd, and how he abandoned it.

    It was no secret Conan deeply hated his royal blood. The reason for that was personal. Even so, thete Maximus IV was theplete opposite. His brother took their royal duty very seriously, taking everything into great consideration to avoid putting shame on the reputable royal family.

    Maximus''s death still until now surprised Conan. Conan knew he shouldn''t be because anyone who had taken Abel as their enemy was guaranteed death. Maximus wasn''t so naive not to know that. Even if Maximus had devised a grand n of owning Maleficent, it would take a long time to actually tame this power.

    In other words, it didn''t make sense to Conan. For him, it was as though Maximus taunted Abel and had done such a grand gesture all for the sake of dying in Abel''s hand.

    Why?

    Does this have something to do with Maximus''s obsession with Abel? Did he think dying in Abel''s hands would make the man remember him?

    Impossible.

    "Or was it simpler than that? Am I just over-analyzing what had already happened?" Conan frowned, ending up in a dead end full of questions and uncertainties. "Whatever. I''m better off not using my brain in this ce."

    *************

    Meanwhileбн

    Miguel''s heart had been racing faster than how his steed galloped aimlessly in the capital. He had left Dexter''s office without finishing his tea, feeling a little lost after talking to the man.

    He clenched his teeth as he pulled up the reins, making the horse skid.

    Neigh!

    The horse''s front feet left the ground, neighing as if that would add more force to stop itself. When the horse came to a full halt, it was just a few steps from a cliff.<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "Hahбн" Miguel huffed, only realizing he nearly fell from a cliff. His chest moved in and out heavily, gazing at the distant capital from his vantage point.

    Miguel didn''t know why or how he ended up in this ce, but he wasn''t surprised. After riding aimlessly, he could''ve gotten much farther with his speed. This small hill wasn''t that far from the capital.

    His gaze veered to the towering royal pce in the middle of the capital. Another deep exhale slipped past Miguel''s nostrils while his shoulders rxed.

    [ First, the Grimsbanne and the power of Maleficent. Once these people seed in ending those I mentioned, who''s next? The Maind will definitely open its forts, not for entry, but to let out the prisoners of thisnd to conquer everynd they step on. You can deny or hide this all you want, but what''s rotten will eventually smell. ]

    Miguel shut his eyes, breath hitching as Dexter''s words crossed his mind once again. He was aware of the main reason he couldn''t determine his feelings right now.

    What Dexter spewed so insensitively was nothing but the truth. Facing the truth was always harder than one expected.

    "What are you so scared of, Miguel?" Miguel reopened his eyes, setting his gaze on the towering royal pce from the distance.

    That question was actually Dexter''s parting words; what was Miguel so afraid of the truth?

    "If only I knowбн" whispered Miguel, clenching his teeth that made his jaw tighten. "... I wouldn''t have such conflicting feelings."

    Another sigh slipped past his lips, shaking his head in an attempt to clear the growing tension in his temple. This matter would be easier if he had someone to me; it would be easier if the queen and her forces carried unreasonable intentions. But s, this situation only shows how evil thisnd and its people were.

    "Just what will you doбн if you are in my situation?" he murmured while staring at the royal pce. It was a question he wanted to ask the Queen if he seeded in meeting her. Miguel wasn''t expecting an answer, that was why he jolted when someone answered his question.

    "I''d do what I thought was right." His eyes popped open and the tension in his shoulder returned. When he looked back, his eyes instantlynded on the woman two meters behind him.

    Giselle slowly lowered the hood over her head to her shoulders. Her eyes were still shut closed, but the way she lifted her chin to face his direction didn''t make her feel inferior with herck of sight.

    "What are you doing here?" Miguel''s expression turned sour. "Did my father tell you to follow me?"

    "Believe me or not, this is my spot. It is the ce where I spend my siesta, my Lord." Giselle''s tone was as calm and cool as the stillke in the north. "I didn''t follow you. If anything, I assume you need my help. Therefore, you are here."

    "Nonsenseбн" Miguel scorned. "I will never seek you even in my most desperate state."

    "Then why are you here, my Lord? Do not tell me, you just coincidentally came here. You, the man, who always moves with a clear intention in your mind?" Giselle was unfazed, stressing each word with certainty as if she knew all along Miguel would one day seek her. "You are here because you knew I would be here, Lord Miguel. I had spent many years looking after you. Therefore, there is no need to deny it."

    Her in countenance slowly grew stern. "Now that you realize the Queen is unstoppable, are you here to beg me to retreat, my Lord?"

 Chapter 878 Blindness

    ?

    "Now that you realize the Queen is unstoppable, are you here to try to change my mind, my Lord?"

    Miguel had millions of reasons why he detested this woman. To him, Giselle was the root of his mother''s misery. He believed Giselle and the Duke were tangled in a scandalous affair. While the duchess, Miguel''s mother, was suffering from the curse of time, the two had been fooling around.

    However, Miguel couldn''t refute this woman''s remarks. Perhaps Giselle was right. Even if Miguel rode aimlessly, he subconsciously had a true destination in mind.

    Giselle.

    "Why are you doing this?" he asked with a shaking voice. "What is your true intention, Giselle?"

    "Are you asking because you truly didn''t know, my Lord?" she returned. "Why else would I resort to such a method if not to protect the Maind?"

    "Nonsense!" Miguel''s voice thundered, jumping off his steed. "You might''ve manipted everyone in the council, but not me, Giselle. I know what you are aiming for isn''t for the goodness of the Maind. If that is truly your intention, then you wouldn''t have made the Grimsbanne your enemy. You should''ve left them all alone!"

    His eyes gleamed with equal anger and confusion, marching towards her until he was standing before her. "You and I knew that by provoking them, you are putting the Maind as coteral. I will ask you again; why are you doing this? Why are you dragging the maind and our people into such a catastrophe?"

    Silence descended on their shoulders as the wind blew past them.

    "Tell me, Giselle!" Her silence only added to his frustration, stretching his arm to grab both of her shoulders. "Just what is your agenda?"

    "The coteral is quite small for the prize in the end." Giselle was unfazed by the tightening grip around her shoulder. She slowly lifted her chin as if to meet his burning eyes, but kept her eyes shut. "The Grimsbanne had caused thisnd many sufferings; they had hurt people just because they could. Their existence will continue to gue this world with nothing but fear."

    Miguel''s grip tightened even more, grinding his teeth. "You are doing thisбн for such a shallow reason?"

    "For such a shallow reason?" Giselle''s expression was the same, but her tone carried a tinge of mockery. "Lord Miguel, I respect you as the heir of the duke and all your achievements until now. However, do not forget I had lived a far longer life than you did. I witnessed many generations of Grimsbanne. Not because they were living a quiet life now doesn''t mean they will continue that way."

    Giselle slowly reached for the hand on her shoulder, peeling them ever so slowly. "You will never understand, for you had never seen the past or the future. If you knew, then you would understand why the council and most people wished them dead."

    "One of those people was your mother," she added, making Miguel freeze. "It was mydy''s dying wish, after all."

    "Hahaбн what nonsense are you spewing now?" Miguelughed in mockery, subconsciously taking a step back. "You think dragging my mother''s name will make me believe you?"

    "Throughout the years, I never felt the need to correct your misconception of me," said Giselle, taking a step forward this time to grab his arm. "However, this has to stop now. You should stop ming others; stop running away from your sins. You should learn how to acknowledge them."

    Miguel tried to pull his arm from her grip, but much to his dismay, Giselle didn''t budge.<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "You are not innocent, Lord Miguel," Giselle stressed her every word as she gripped his arm tighter. "Why did I provoke the Grimsbanne? I didn''t, Lord Miguel. I wasn''t the person who started all this. If anything, I am simply doing everything I can to cover the person who had given thete Maximus IV the idea of what is going on in the current."

    "I am doing so, not for recognition. Recognition is nothing to me." She shook her head ever so slowly. "I am simply doing this to survive the disaster you had brought upon thisnd, my lord. For your mother, thedy I pledge to serve, even in the afterlife, I willingly epted the wrath of the world just to save her precious son. However, for me to save him, I have to go against the descendants of demons and walk down the path of no return."

    Miguel''s heart raced, watching Giselle peel her eyelids open. The eyes beneath those eyelids were nothing but white, but he could feel the fire in them. He had never seen Giselle angry or lose herposure; Giselle was a woman who always acted as if there was no secret in the world that she never knew.

    But right now, Giselle was spewing nonsense. Yet, the certainty of her voice told him it wasn''t just nonsense.

    Was this part of her maniption n?

    Giselle deceived everyone, after all.

    Who knew how low this woman go just to add more people to her force?

    "You don''t believe me?" she added calmly, blinking ever so tenderly. "Protecting you had been the duke and duchess''s wishes. But s, protecting you from the truth now will only cause the opposite effect. If you do not believe me, then you go see for yourself."

    Giselle pricked the tip of her thumb until a small droplet of blood formed on it. Another soft gust of wind blew past them, and she pressed her thumb on his eyebrow, drawing it down across his left eye.

    "May these blind eyes finally see the light of truth it had avoided for a long time," came out a murmur, followed by inaudible chanting.

    Miguel''s face turned sour at her attempt to put him under a spell. However, just as he was about to jump away from her, his eyes rolled back as if the nerve behind his eyes pulled them back. His head cocked back and his entire body froze, trembling as if having a seizure until he copsed on his back with a thud.

    *

    *

    *

    "My lord! Thend of green is in sight!"

    The corner of the man''s lips, sitting behind the desk inside the ship, stretched wickedly at the announcement he heard outside.

 Chapter 879 A Lie Can Never Change The Truth

    ?

    The Kingdom of Rikhill or what others called thend of green because of its greenndscape. There was a rumor in the past that thisnd used to be blessed by the faes. The reason for the royal family''s strange hair color.

    The Kingdom of Rikhill was small, but despite how small it was, it gained a name for itself. This fame and the interesting rumor behind it reached the ears of those who shouldn''t have.

    For instance, the ambitious count of the Rothschild, Count Miguel.

    Miguel pushed the cabin door open, marching to the deck while many of his men ran around the ship. Standing by the edge, he narrowed his eyes. His lips curled up into a smirk as soon as he caught sight of his intended destination.

    There were many ships around and even ships that were heading in the same direction. This wasn''t a surprise. Thend of Rikhill had been a center of trade since thend was riched with minerals.

    "Thend where the faes used to live, huh?" murmured Miguel, eyes gleaming with anticipation and interest. "I have high hopes that my trip here will be worthwhile."

    The people of the Maind weren''t allowed to go out of their territory. Leaving theirnd was considered a grave sin. However, Miguel was an exception. Considering the current proposals Miguel brought up to the maind''s royal court, he had to have experience and knowledge of the outside world.

    Fortunately, thete King Maximus III had permitted him to set out on this mission. Even though the prince, Maximus IV, and Miguel didn''t have a good rtionship.

    "My lord." Suddenly, a knight approached Miguel from the side. The knight bowed slightly as a sign of respect before stating his reason. "We already received word from thend of Rikhill."

    Miguel arched a brow and nced over his shoulder.

    "They are epting your request to dock in their fort," announced the knight solemnly. "However, we were still required to go through their search and follow protocol."

    "Haha!" Miguel couldn''t help butugh. "Follow protocol, huh? Surely, the outside world was interesting."

    Miguel set his eyes on the ind from a distance. His smile stretched even broader while his pair of cunning eyes shone with excitement.

    "Never once did I have to go through search or follow protocol. But s, I pledged to not bring trouble to the king and our people." бк even though causing an amok in and of humans was no problem to thend of vampires. "Very well. We''ll do what they want and follow their protocol."

    "Yes, my lord." The knight beckoned a neck bow before turning around, shouting to hisrade to prepare to dock in thend of green.

    Meanwhile, Miguel stood still in the same spot. His eyes were fixed on thend of green, grinning from ear to ear. The Kingdom of Rikhill wasn''t the firstnd he set foot on since leaving the maind. However, this was the firstnd he set sail on intentionally.

    "How exciting," he muttered to himself. "I wonder what''s in thisnd that the faes sacrificed their existence just to protect it."

    *

    *

    *

    *<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Several hourster, Miguel''s ship docked in the Town of Sunford, where the main fort was located. As expected, the people of thend of Rikhill conducted a search for safety and security.

    Miguel and his men followed protocol obediently. They cooperated with whatever the people of Rikhill had to do. Little the people of Rikhill, Miguel, and his men were prepared to y them if they did anything offensive. Surprisingly, aside from the procedure that was stated in the letter, there were no hidden procedures that could incite trouble.

    "You are cleared," said the man wearing a royal knight uniform to Miguel, whom he believed was a Count in a small kingdom in the far northern-west.

    "That''s it?" Miguel tilted his head to the side.

    "Yes, Count Miguel." The knight nodded, bearing a stern countenance. "You said you want to meet the man in charge of the trade. If you go right in the corner, you''ll meet the king."

    The knight pointed at the tent nearby. "His Majesty is there."

    "The king?" Miguel furrowed his brows, assessing the knight''s face to see the slightest deception in the knight''s eyes.

    "Yes." The knight didn''t show the slightest bit of hint that he was lying. "The man in charge of the trades in thisnd is His Majesty himself. Thus, the tight security for the safety of our king."

    "Hahбн" Miguel rocked his head in understanding, a little surprised by this. He heard many rumors and stories about the Land of Rikhill, but this piece of information was new to him.

    Who would have thought the king himself would set up a tent as an office? He didn''t know if that was foolish or if the king was simply brave. Either way, it was interesting. No wonder they had to go through hours of security checks. Still, that saved him the time of journeying to the capital just to meet the king.

    "Very well." Miguel cast the knight a look and then nced over his shoulder at where his men were standing.

    They only allowed Miguel to go into the tent, leaving his men in the fort. The number of knights around the tent was tripled than in the other areas of the town. It was understandable, knowing they were guarding the king and not just some lord of a fief.

    When Miguel stood in front of the tent, two knights guarding the entrance stopped him. His brows rose as one of the knights approached him.

    "Before entering the tent, we needed to conduct another search. Any weapons or sharp objects you are carrying should be confiscatedбн" the knight exined while Miguel had to listen.

    Miguel was only a few steps away from the tent and meeting the king, but these searches were too bothersome. Still, he followed. Miguel had to remove his jewelry and anything that could be used to harm the king, something he thought was rational.

    In the end, Miguel was wearing nothing but his clothes. The action of putting all his essories into a small basket made the side of Miguel''s face twitch.

    ''What is this?'' He was not pleased that they confiscated his ring, where his family insignia was imprinted. Now, he looked like an ordinary man wearing an expensive shirt without anything to make it appear special.

    ''They had stripped everything awayбн is the king afraid to feel inferior?'' Aside from security, that was one thing that crossed the Count''s mind.

    For someone like Miguel,vish jewelry and clothes were a gesture on the maind to show off their wealth. Therefore, he believed the king didn''t want to meet someone who was wearing much better clothing or jewelry than him. Typical Miguel... or rather, the typical thinking of someone born and raised in the Maind.

    ''Nevermind.''He mentally shrugged, watching the knight step aside. The knight beckoned his arm, gesturing to him he could enter the tent. ''What''s important is that I could meet His Majesty. I''d give him a good lecture that feeling inferior was normalбн especially since humans are the most inferior creatures in the world.''

 Chapter 880 A Lie Can Never Change The Truth II

    Miguel didn''t have a good impression of other creatures. He was born and raised in a powerhouse in the Maind бк a founding family at that. Therefore, it was no surprise he had a sense of superiority over other vampires, especially other races.

    Even so, he had adapted well to the outside world. He realized a thing or two: one was that not all parts of the world knew the existence of vampires. The other realization was that everyone in the outside world was far too fragile. Breaking humans was too pathetic for him; it was too low for him.

    Therefore, he would rather resort to scolding and lectures before truly soiling his hands.

    His curiosity about the king continuously increased with the hassle before meeting him. Not that he couldn''t truly understand, but Miguel was part of the Rothschild. He may not see the King anytime he pleased, but so far, there was no reason for the King of vampires to refuse his requests. He didn''t have to go through multiple searches and even take off everything on him.

    Miguel stood before the entrance of the tent, ncing at the knight who had announced his presence. He arched a brow when the knight faced him, motioning him to enter.

    "Is that alright?" asked Miguel with a tinge of equal mockery and genuine wonder. "I didn''t hear anyone giving you permission."

    The knight retained his unchanging front. "His Majesty is inside."

    ''So, he wouldn''t tell me the reason?'' Miguel let out a faint breath, setting his eyes on the entrance. ''How suspicious.''

    Miguel''s eyes sharpened as soon as he took a step, secretly preparing himself for any trap that could be beyond that tent. It was suspicious. He had been through at least ten kingdoms before reaching the territory of Rikhill; he met most of the sovereigns in thosends.

    The sovereign should have someone with him inside a room for these types of things. It would be considered rude to trespass on the king''s dwelling unannounced. At least, that was obvious to Miguel, since the king on the maind should be respected at all times.

    ''This could be a trapбн'' his thoughts continued whilst thinking of different scenarios that could happen once he enter the king''s tent. ''... well, what could humans do? Wiping everyone out would make my mission easier.''

    Miguel held his breath, using the back of his hand to slide the entrance open. He peeked inside, brow arched, and then furrowed his brows when he was inside. The tent was almost empty, with only a few crates and a small table inside.

    The inside of the tent didn''t meet the expectations he has. It was more like storage than a tent meant for the king.

    ''Thisбн''Miguel scanned the tent, searching for the throne, and he quickly realized no such thing was inside.

    Aside from the crates and the small square table, nothing else was inside.

    ''Did they lieбн'' Just before Miguel could jump to a conclusion, he heard a muffled sound just around.

    "Ughбн he бк halpбн"

    Miguel furrowed his brows even more, looking around the tent until the faint voice caressed his ear once again. His eyesnded on the stack of crates, advancing toward it cautiously. When Miguel reached the stack of crates, he stretched his neck and gaze over the crates.

    "Ughбн" There, stuck in the back of the crates, was a man. He was wincing at the fact that his bottom was stuck inside a small broken crate. Miguel could tell the man probably fell on it. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    ''Who is this? A chore boy?'' wondered Miguel, assessing the man from head to the toe.

    The man who was asking for help was wearing in clothes. Not that they looked ragged, but they were far too simple for anyone in the nobility''s taste. Even amoner on the maind had better clothes than him.

    "Hey!" The man''s voice snapped Miguel back to the currentpse, making thetter refocus his eyes on him. "Please help? I think I broke my back."

    Miguel let out another deep sigh before he offered his hand. Despite the reluctance on his face, the man smiled gratefully.

    "Thanks бк ah!" the man grunted over and over, pulling himself up by holding on to Miguel''s hand. "Ouch бк aw бк ahбн"

    Another deep exhale slipped past Miguel''s lips, rolling his eyes before pulling the man back up. His strength took the man off guard, looking at Miguel with wide eyes as soon as the man was back on his feet.

    "What monstrous strengthбн" The man bobbed his head to examine Miguel''s physique. "I never saw someone pull a grown man as if he was merely lifting a piece of paper."

    Miguel''s face twitched while the man was walking in a circle, admiring Miguel''s strength andplimenting him to high heaven.

    "Though I never saw this type of clothing бк oh, are you a guest of the country?" the man gasped in surprise, covering his lips with his palm.

    Miguel set his pair of somber eyes on the man. "I was told to go here to meet an important person. But s, it seemed I was deceived."

    "Huh?"

    "Hah! Why did I believe the most important man in this country would be in this ce and not in thefort of his home?" Miguelughed, shaking his head with his fingertips on his forehead. "How silly have I be? I''ll surely teach these people a lesson for mocking me for no reason."

    The man blinked almost innocently, watching Miguelugh in mockery. "The people of Rikhill were honest people. Don''t be mad бк"

    "You better shut up, chore boy." Miguel cut the man mid-sentence and red daggers at him. The man instinctively raised his hands over his shoulders as a sign of surrender. "I am a busy man and therefore, I do not appreciate being robbed of my time by these petty games."

    Miguel huffed angrily, offended by being deceived by the knights outside. The king was not inside, and he was certain of that. This tent wasn''t a king''s temporary office for sure. There was no way this would be thisnd''s sovereign workce, considering how dirty and crowded it was.

    Just as Miguel was leaving the tent with his fist held tightly on his side, a person suddenly rushed in. The person who rushed inside simply ran past Miguel, making thetter halt in his tracks. Miguel arched a brow and looked back, only to see the person approach the person he assumed was a chore boy.

    "Your Majesty! A fleet from the kingdom ofбн" the person announced in panic, not knowing how he addressed the man, surprised Miguel.

    "Your Majestyбн?" mumbled Miguel, causing the frantic person to stop. Both of them gazed in Miguel''s direction and the moment Miguel met the chore boy''s eyes, he knew right then and there that there was a misunderstanding.

 Chapter 881 DonтАЩt He Have Any Sense Of Dignity?

    ?

    Was it called shame? The emotion that swelled in Miguel''s chest upon realizing the chore boy he helped was actually the king of thend of Rikhill. Or was it his ego, proving he wasn''t always right?

    Miguel had a vague image of what the king of Rikhill was like from the rumors he garnered. There were many rumors circted around the said king, but one thing that those rumors had inmon was that the king''s ambition was way beyond one''s imagination. Considering thisnd was the center of trade because of its location, rumor has it the king took advantage of it not just to grow the kingdom''s economy but his wealth.

    This kingбн silence the rumors Miguel took with him with his clothes.

    The king simply offered Miguel a smile before following his advisor to themotion in the fort. Miguel, being left alone in the tent, followed them from behind.

    There, a brawl between two lords from different kingdoms was quarreling about a stolen good. Miguel only listened for a straight thirty seconds, and he immediately grasped the situation.

    Apparently, there was a missing crate from the other kingdom. They had suspected the other party because they had a good simr to them.

    "Are you asking for war, eh?!" challenged the furious lord, grinding his teeth like a rabid dog. "Men! Prepare for battle! We''ll take them on right here and now!"

    "Hah!" the used lord scoffed, snapping his fingers to signal his men to prepare for battle. "If that is what you want, be my guest! Men!!"

    "My, my! Please put away the swords. Let us talk about this calmly and rationally." the king stepped in confidently, bearing the brightest smile as if he wasn''t a bit angry at these men.

    Any king would be mad in this situation. These lords were not in theirnd. For them to act and even start a brawl in anothernd was offensive to any king; even if this gets resolved, they attempted to harm the people of Rikhill.

    But the King of Rikhill didn''t react like any sovereign would. Instead, the king stood between the two forces.

    Miguel scanned the surroundings, arching a brow upon noticing the royal knights weren''t intervening. They were allowing their king to stand in the middle of two forces, knowing the tension between the two parties steadily grew. That was dangerous.

    "Get away!" shouted the lord. "This person always nitpicks my crew! I let it slide in the past, but he is pushing his luck too much!"

    "Haha! If there is anyone who extends their patience, that would be me! You thieves have been stealing our goods!" the other one argued, taking a step forward. "Do you think lightly of it?!"

    "What did you say, eh?!?" the other lord also took a step forward.

    "I said you people are thieves! That had been proven since a long time ago, iming the west archipgo as yours!"

    "Hah! So you''re ndering us now?! The west archipgo had been ours in the first ce! We simply reimed what is ours бк that includes our ancestors and the livelihood of our fishermen whom you, people, had robbed from them!"

    "The audacity!"<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    The two lords bickered, and each time, they took steps forward. They argued from the top of their lungs, closing in, until they sandwiched the king.

    The king winced at the saliva sshing on either side of him. As they argued, it showed these two forces weren''t just fighting about a missing crate. They had more unresolved issues, and the missing goods were simply a trigger.

    "What?! Should we settle this in a duel?!" challenged the lord, who was being used of stealing the crate.

    SHING!

    "Do you think I will back down?!" the other lord drew his sword angrily, ignoring the person between him and his opponent. "Sure! Come here so I can cut that sinful tongue of yours!"

    The other lord also drew his sword, telling his men not to interfere. The other one also warned his men, wanting to settle this on their own. However, just before any sh would happen, the king, who was ignored throughout the argument, raised both his fists.

    Without a sigh of fear at the swords from either side of him, the king knocked the back of their heads with his fists.

    "You guysбн" The side of the king''s face twitched with the veins on his temple protruding. "... how can you draw your swords so easily, eh?!"

    Both the lords winced in pain, holding the back of their heads as they took a step back. The knights from both forces and bystanders watched the king scold the lords as if he was simply scolding mischievous children.

    "I understand there are unresolved issues here. However, have you not thought of the consequences of drawing your swords?!" the king continued to scold the lords while the other two were kneeling, still rubbing the back of their heads. "Your kingdoms already came to terms in thend dispute, and had chosen peace over power! By letting your temper get the better of you, you are simply devaluing the hard work of your kings to reach the peace your people deserved!"

    The king went on and on with his lecture, truly furious at them. However, just listening to him, one could tell he wasn''t angry that they ignored him. It didn''t seem he even minded being ignored as the two continuously bantered, even when he interfered already.

    His only concern was the waste of effort of the kings if these two fought. For sure, it would only reopen their nation''s healing wounds.

    Miguel watched how the situation cooled down, watching the king point fingers at the other members of each party. Miguel blinked. Things surely escted from there because now, in a blink of an eye, even the soldiers from both parties were kneeling while the king lectured them for their short temper.

    "So they knew who he was all alongбн" he whispered, seeing that others resumed their activities, and not giving the king or the two parties'' attention.

    Miguel assumed the lords ignored the king because they didn''t know he was the king, but it turned out they already knew. But that was what baffled him. If they knew the man who intervened was the king, why did they continue?

    ''That manбн''Miguel slowly shifted his eyes to the young king of thend of Rikhill. ''Don''t he have any sense of dignity?''

 Chapter 882 It Was All His Fault

    ?

    Any king would not take the slightest disrespect. Even on the maind, no one would openly challenge the king''s authority. Miguel was already a Rothschild бк a powerful n on the maind бк but even the n head would choose his words before the king.

    That was why this king of Rikhill baffled him. What was more baffling was that everyone, especially the royal knights, was acting as though there was nothing wrong with the situation.

    Miguel watched the situation till the very end. Apparently, the missing crate was simply misced. The royal knights found it in the lost and found. Therefore, the lord who used the other one of stealing had to apologize.

    Even so, the king didn''t let both lords off the hook. He forced the other lord to apologize as well; he was the first to draw his sword. The good news for that was, no one got physically hurt.

    Both parties went on their separate ways to continue their business in thisnd. Meanwhile, the king could only huff.

    "Your Majesty!" the man who called the king to settle the matter rushed to the king, offering him a sk. When the king epted it and drank a mouthful of water, the man giddily cheered.

    "Your Majesty, you are amazing back there! You settled the situation without spilling blood! Those two had been a headache every time they were here!" continued the king''s henchman. "I''m d you gave them a good scolding! Serves them right!"

    "Hai hai." The king hissed in satisfaction and then patted hisrade''s shoulder. "It''s a good thing I set up a tent here. Let''s hope there will be less problems here in the future."

    "Yes!"

    The king chuckled before lifting his gaze in one particr direction. The corner of his lips curled up subtly as soon as he met Miguel''s eyes.

    "Supervise the trades. I''ll go see a guest," the king tapped his servant''s shoulder and then walked in Miguel''s direction.

    "Apologize for that, my lord!" expressed the king with open arms. "Things like this happen around here, since manye from farawaynds. Their journey is tiring and thus, their temper sometimes gets the best of them."

    The king stopped two steps before Miguel, hands on his hips. "You were in my tent earlier. So I assume you have some concerns бк perhaps a proposal? Let''s hear it."

    "I changed my mind." Miguel''s expression was cold and in, while the king''s brows rose. "I do not want to associate myself with a person who has no sense of dignity."

    "Huh?"

    "You are the king of thisnd. And yet, you don''t conduct yourself with dignity." Miguel didn''t sugarcoat his words, raising his chin. "I know I am in no position to lecture you on how to be one, but what I''ve witnessed is enough to lose all respect I can give to a man. What a shame. I had high hopes in thisnd and the man at its helm."

    After saying his piece, Miguel didn''t idle as he turned on his heel to leave. Although the situation was resolved, how it was resolved didn''t please Miguel.

    There were many methods to fix the problem, and he believed the king didn''t have to step in himself. They could even chase those forces away and let them kill each other somewhere else. This was a problem the king didn''t have to resolve himself.

    Surely, there were other important matters the king had to do. But the king seemed a bit foolish to know the obvious.

    "It was a shame, indeed." the king sighed, staring at Miguel''s retreating back. "I was looking forward to the day someone of your kind wille here to talk business with us."

    Miguel''s steps halted, looking back at the king. "Someoneбн from my kind?"<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "You''re not what you appear to be," remarked the king, offering Miguel a genuine smile. "And I know you can cause mayhem in thisnd if you so pleased."

    "If you know that, shouldn''t you have kept your mouth shut?" Coldness coated Miguel''s eyes.

    He didn''t want to reveal what he was, even though he was a proud, pure-blooded vampire. Not that he didn''t do that before. But still, he would rather reveal it on his own than others doing the job for him. After all, without their fangs, detecting a vampire in a crowd of humans was almost impossible.

    "I think you''re a good person!" the king''s smile stretched from ear to ear. "If not, I don''t think you would go through the hassle just to meet me! And you wouldn''t get angry if your intention was just to harm me."

    The king marched in Miguel''s direction and stopped a step away.

    "Alexander." the king, Alexander, offered his hand to Miguel as he introduced himself. "Your name is Countбн Michael?"

    Miguel frowned as the king rubbed his chin, obviously guessing his name.

    "Miguel," he corrected, only to realize he fell from the king''s trap as the man suddenly grabbed his hand.

    "Nice to meet you, Miguel! I''m d to be your first human friend." Alexander grinned from ear to ear while Miguel''s face screamed in disbelief.

    Little did Miguel know, his life was about to turn with this human who had a baffling character, step into his life. A turn, a memory that he would be forever grateful for, but at the same time, had made him wish that never happened in this lifetime.

    Because if only Miguel didn''t let that man in his life, life would be easier as a ruthless vampire. A vampire whose morals, beliefs, and integrity were twisted unimaginably.

    *

    *

    *

    [ PRESENT TIME ]

    Miguely on the grass motionlessly, staring into the orange tint in the sky as the sun bid farewell. Giselle was long gone, leaving him alone after making him remember the memories he forced himself to forget.

    "She was rightбн" he whispered, blinking ever so slowly. "... it was all my fault."

    His expression slowly turned stern as a glint flickered across his eyes. "I won''t run away from the things I ran away from anymoreбн" he slowly sat up, eyes on the glorious pce from the distance.

    "I will start with you, sister."

 Chapter 883 I Think Giselle Is A Genius

    ?

    The next day came the night of the full moon. As a tradition, tonight was a feast for many noble houses on the maind. Many of the nobles left the royal pce not just to attend any grandiose party being hosted tonight, but to give enough space for the coven.

    The first andst full moons on the Maind were important gatherings that the king and only selected individuals in thend could attend. The invitation spoke volumes of a person''s value, power, and status symbol on thend. Therefore, it was no surprise many in thisnd made it their goal to be a part of the Raven.

    But none of them knew what was happening in these gatherings, since no one had talked about it. The secrecy of the coven simply hid whaty behind during these times.

    "In the coven in Haimirichбн" Aries spread her fingers open, sitting on the divan in a in, white chemise. Her eyes were fixed on the metal band around her wrists, connecting with each other. When she moved her feet, a faint sound of metal echoed.

    "... was Abel chained?" she wondered, recalling the first coven she witnessed in the past. "I can vaguely remember."

    "Your Majesty." Suddenly, Gustav came into the Queen''s boudoir. He stood at a safe distance, cing his hand across his chest while bowing.

    Aries blinked ever so slowly before lifting her gaze to her servant. "Where''s Suzanne?"

    "Suzanne is preparing thest touches for tonight''s coven," Gustav answered as he straightened his back. "There were a few that didn''t go as nned, apparently."

    "Should I worry about it?"

    "You shouldn''t, Your Majesty." Gustav offered the Queen a subtle smile. "It is just a slight miscalction, which isn''t worthy of your concern."

    "I see." Aries rocked her head in understanding, shifting her attention back to her wrist. "Say, Gustav. What''s the purpose of the coven in Haimirich?"

    "It is to contain the Emperor''s power. His Majesty carries a power that is beyond one''s imagination. The power was one thing, but the burden which came along with it made it a hundred times heavier. Thus, the existence of the Coven. It is meant to drain the Emperor of his power," exined Gustav, even though he was certain Aries had already heard of this in much greater detail. "However, even if that is the original purpose of the coven, draining the power of the emperor was impossible. It was more like the coven stand as a force so that power wouldn''t overflow and overwhelm the Emperor. It is for the safety of Haimirich and everyone in the world."

    "Rightбн"

    "Although it was inevitable that some people will grow greedy," Gustav continued, knowing the coven Aries had witnessed was different from the usual coven in Haimirich. "After all, during those covens, the Emperor was in his weakened state; a state before entering berserk. It was the perfect chance to take him down."

    He paused for a moment to take a breath. "Many have tried even before you came into His Majesty''s life, but none of them seeded. Sir Isaiah made sure of that."

    "What was the difference between their attempt before and now?" she asked out of in curiosity. "Back then, those night councils nearly seeded. Was it because Conan was the one present, recing Isaiah''s absence?"

    "No, Your Majesty." Gustav shook his head mildly. "It is because one of them got a hold of a divine weapon. The Divine Weapons were blessed by deities, and thus, could y even the most wicked demon."

    "Rightбн" Aries rocked her head once again, making Gustav wonder whether she was simply trying to kill time or if she truly forgot about it. "That weapon, huh? Even before Maximus came into Haimirich, we hadn''t figured out how that weaponnded on the night council."<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Aries caressed the metal band on her wrist. "Do you think the Raven carries a weapon just like that divine weapon?"

    "I doubt."

    "And why is that?"

    "Because only those chosen by the gods can wield them." Gustav''s voiceced with confidence, watching Aries lift her eyes back to him. "The maind is thend of vampires; thend of the damned. Even if they got a hold of such a weapon, they would need someone to wield it. Because if someone wielded it without caution, the consequences were dire. The Raven consisted of meticulous individuals. Provoking the Grimsbannes was already a risk; an uncertain battle. Taking more risk than they already did would only drag them down."

    "But they have enough time to make sure those risks wouldn''t drag them down," Aries returned, pushing herself up from the divan. She slowly made her way in front of the window, listening to the ng of metals with her slightest movement.

    "I think Giselle is a genius," she continued, setting her eyes on the empty expanse outside the window. "But what makes her even more dangerous is her patience. Not many can fight a patient fight; even vampires who have all the time in the world weren''t as patient as her."

    "Does that bother you, Your Majesty?"

    "A bit бк if I am being honest." Her reflection on the ss slowly turns clear. "Thoughбн I don''t think she is as prepared as she thought they were."

    Gustav''s brows slowly rose. This was the first time he heard her give such ament. Was it because her ns were wless? Gustav was confident in the ns Aries put together to survive tonight. However, no matter how perfect it was, there was always a slim chance things wouldn''t go as nned.

    ''Ahбн'' Suddenly, Gustav has a realization. His previous thoughts don''t only apply to Aries, but to the Raven as well.

    "Thing was, we already know their goal, which makes it easier for us to sabotage it." The corner of her lips curled up into a smirk, looking back at Gustav while carrying that smile on her face. "It''s just a matter of whose n will work out in the end."

    Knock Knock

    "Suzanne''s here." Her smile stretched a bit more, shifting her eyes to the door. As soon as her eyesnded on it, the door opened ever so slowly, revealing Suzanne.

    "Your Majesty," greeted Suzanne with a bow, closing the door behind her. "Giselle is here to escort you to the great hall."

    Gustav furrowed his brows, but before he could speak, Aries already did.

    "Perfect!" Gustav looked at Aries in disbelief, only to see her smiling. "They''ve been waiting for a lifetime. Let''s not make them wait for more."

 Chapter 884 You Will Protect No One

    ?

    "They''ve been waiting for a lifetime. Let''s not make them wait for more."

    Just as Aries could signal Suzanne to assist her, Gustav took a step forward. "Your Majesty бк"

    "Gustav, you will stick with your task tonight." Suzanne cut off whatever concern Gustav has to raise. "You might have other questions, but Her Majesty already chose me to assist her in her first coven."

    Gustav''s already knitted brows furrowed even more, darting his eyes between Aries and Suzanne. "Your Majesty."

    "I know this upsets you, but I hope you understand I can''t put everything in one basket." Aries offered Gustav a warm smile.

    "Do you not trust me, Your Majesty?"

    "This is not about trust, Gustav." Aries shook her head mildly. "I trust you with all my life, but I believed protecting me right now isn''t your priority. Your priority is to make my ns work."

    Aries raised her hand ever so slowly, hinting at Suzanne to assist her. Thetter immediately rushed to the queen''s side to hold her, carrying the weight to lighten Aries''s burden.

    "I''ll see you tomorrow, Gustav?" Aries cast Gustav a knowing look, but Gustav didn''t answer immediately.

    The man pressed his lips into a thin line, still frustrated at the realization Aries seemed to have another n. But then again, he should''ve known. Aries was a woman with a thousand ns. She wasn''t the type to give everyone the same task as she preferred to distribute them, so her people could focus and perfect their given tasks.

    "Very well." Gustav sighed heavily, bowing to hide the frown dominating his face. "I''ll hold on to your words. I''ll see you tomorrow, Your Majesty."

    "How adorable have you be, Gustav," Aries chuckled, casting Suzanne a look. "Let''s go, Suzanne."

    With that being said, Aries walked away with Suzanne on her side. Gustav was left standing in the same spot with his head hung low.

    *** BREAK ***

    "Where are these people waiting for me?" Aries inquired as she walked down the hall with no one to assist her but Suzanne.

    "They are waiting at the exit of the Queen''s Pce," answered Suzanne. "They wanted to fetch you, but there is no way I would allow their presence to tarnish the Queen''s dwelling."

    "Easy now, Suzanne." Aries chuckled, arching a brow upon noticing the restlessness in her handmaiden''s eyes. "Are you worried about Gustav?"

    "No, Your Majesty. Gustav is a capable and reliable man. There is no need to worry about him."

    "Then why do you look otherwise?"

    Suzanne pressed her lisp into a thin line, keeping her gaze on the floor as they walked. "I''m simply wondering if I can keep you safe when we''re already inside. It makes me think Gustav is a better assistant."<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Aries remained silent, but the sound of metals dragging on the floor filled in the silence that was attempting to reign over them. She kept her eyes on Suzanne for a minute before peeling them away and setting them ahead.

    "I am not scared of losing my life again. But I wouldn''t forgive myself if I can''t protect you," Suzanne continued, recalling that night years ago.

    Back then, Suzanne lost her life at the hands of Marse. Although Aries did everything to revive her, this situation reminded her of her ''failure.'' Therefore, no one could me Suzanne if she was reluctant to assist Aries.

    "You will protect no one, Suzanne." After some time, Aries spoke calmly and sincerely. "The coven sounds scary because it is. However, the great hall will be the safest ce tonight."

    "Your Majesty?" Suzanne raised her head, setting her eyes on the Queen immediately. "What did you mean by that, Your Majesty?"

    "I came to this decision not because I want you to risk your life to protect me. No offense, but bringing Gustav or anyone else other than you will make it harder for me. Because youбн" Aries''s steps halted, facing Suzanne squarely. "... don''t intimidate anyone."

    Suzanne''s breath hitched as the queen''s eyelids drooped dangerously.

    "I''m not saying you are weak. We both know you aren''t. However, those Ravens think so little of you." The side of Aries''s lips stretched from ear to ear, raising one of her hands to cup her cheek. "I can''t me them. All the tasks I have given you are far too simple."

    "Your Majestyбн"

    "Do not beat yourself over this." Aries retrieved her hand from Suzanne''s cheek and then faced forward. "At the end of this hallway lies the people who wanted nothing but my dead body. Thest thing I want is to have someone who wasn''t on the same page as I do."

    Aries took a step forward, leaving Suzanne. "If you are going with me, then make up your mind. I can go on my own, thoughбн I have to improvise."

    "Your Majesty!" Suzanne didn''t think twice about dashing her way to Aries''s side, holding thetter''s hand to lighten up the burden the queen was carrying. "Iбн"

    Suzanne trailed off, shutting her lips to smile. There was no need for pledges and things like that. That wasn''t what Aries needed and wanted.

    In silence, Aries and Suzanne made their way to the exit of the Queen''s Pce. When the door was in sight, a few knights under the queen''s order were standing on either side of it. As they came closer to the door, the knights unhurriedly opened the door.

    The door creaked open, echoing in every corner of the hallway. When Aries stopped in her steps, her eyes fell on the few people in robes. The person in the middle was a short woman with a pair of shut eyes. Both parties stood on either side of the door, being separated by a fine line.

    "Greetings to Your Majesty." Giselle and a few members of the Raven beckoned a neck bow. When she raised her head once again, her face was facing directly at Aries. "I''m d to see you tonight, Your Majesty."

    "I couldn''t say the same." Aries shrugged, smirking. "Very well. Shall we go?"

    Giselle smiled at Aries''s suspicious enthusiasm but didn''t say anything. Instead, she nodded and waited for Aries to step out of the queen''s pce.

 Chapter 885 Last Chance For Both Of Them

    ?

    Aries looked like a prisoner being led to her execution. Escorted by Suzanne and a few members of the Raven, Aries dragged her bound feet down the loggia that connected the Queen''s Pce to the Main Pce.

    She kept her chin up, listening to the sound of metals against the floor, saving everyone from the pin-drop silence. No one showed any sign they wanted to break the prolonged silence until Aries'' lips parted.

    "No wonder thete King Maximus IV openly criticized the coven,"mented Aries without taking her eyes off the way ahead. "The King is supposed to be untouchable, bathing in the light of glory and power. But this coven brings only humiliation to him."

    "The coven''s duty humbles him." Giselle was quick to answer with her calm voice.

    "Humbles him, huh?"

    "Sitting on the throne is overwhelming. Our duty is to make sure the sovereign won''t overwhelm it."

    "By that, you mean stopping anyone from turning into a mad king?"

    "More or less."

    "What an interesting take." Aries let out a dryugh, shaking her head mildly. "It''s almost ridiculous how one can twist a perspective just so it makes sense."

    "It won''t make sense to Your Majesty since you haven''t lived here for a long time."

    "And I''m d about that," Aries smirked, side-eyeing Giselle, who was walking on her side. "Even so, no matter how long I stay in my dwelling here, my perspective will always be different from the majority of the people on thisnd."

    There was a brief silence after Aries''s remarks before Giselle replied;

    "That is why you are not fit to be the queen." Giselle''s tone was the same, but the stress in her words made it sound threatening. "An outsider will never protect thisnd nor the people in it."

    "Bold of you to say that in front of the queen."

    "The night council isn''t bound to curry favor from the sovereign of thend. I''ve mentioned it before. The Raven stands as a group to make sure the sovereign is aligned with the Maind''s best interest." Giselle slowed down, matching Aries''s slow pace. "If that offends you, I apologize. However, what I said was the truth that you and I are aware of. You might have the capabilities to govern a kingdom or even an empire, but not the Maind."

    That was true.

    Aries was not fit to be the queen of the maind. This was not because the maind was and of vampires. Giselle''s point was that Aries was not fit to be the queen for she would never understand them.

    Even if Aries was a turned vampire now, she grew up in the outside world. There would be no way she would turn a blind eye to the ridiculous practices and the norm in thisnd.

    Aries rocked her head in understanding, not denying or confirming Giselle''s remarks. "Say, Giselle. If you care for thisnd that much, why did you target the Grimsbanne?"<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "No matter where I look at it, provoking them just because of the curse in their blood was too shallow. I would understand it if it was someone else. For instance, thete Maximus IV. However, this was you we''re talking about," continued Aries. "The Grimsbanne hadn''t been participating in any political affairs nor did they ever say a word to the new decrees. For you to set your eyes on them, I can''t help but wonder the real reason behind it."

    "Don''t say it was for the goodness of thisnd. We both know your words don''t align with your actions." Aries smirked, seeing the huge door at the end of the hallway. "Targeting and provoking the Grimsbanne warrants a reaction. And that reaction will surely bring forth mayhem. How baffling."

    Giselle didn''t answer this time, keeping her lips shut tight.

    What Aries said had been bugging him ever since Giselle personally invited her for tonight''s coven. Giselle''s silence only deepened her curiosity about this woman''s reason for everything.

    Aries believed Giselle was a sensible person. If there was a sensible person in thisnd, that would be the chief leader of the Raven. Therefore, it was so unlike Giselle to incite problems that put risk in thisnd. Unless Giselle simply didn''t have a choice.

    "You could''ve killed me then," Aries added, referring to the time Abel turned Aries into a vampire. "Even if Abel was there, I''m certain you could''ve done something. But s, you didn''t."

    "Facing Abel Grimsbanne was not the right time back then," this time, Giselle willingly answered Aries''s remarks. "He is called Wrath for a reason."

    "So, you''re scared of him, huh?" Aries''s breathing slowed down.

    "I know what you are trying to do, Your Majesty." Giselle listened to their quiet footsteps as if she was matching the volume of her voice in them. "We had reached this point of no return. No amount of words or negotiation could stop this from happening, even if you and I change our minds."

    Giselle paused as she trod carefully. "We are fighting for different reasons. Whether you are convinced of my purpose and reasons matters not for you to have you have set your mind."

    "That is right, but you cannot me me for wondering." Aries shrugged. "This could''ve been prevented, don''t you think? If only you people simply cleaned up Maximus IV''s mess, I would''ve returned to the Haimirich Empire with my people. We wouldn''t have to invest more energy on this matter: we will leave the maind alone and you will leave us alone."

    "If only things are just as simple as that." Giselle''s steps slowly came to a halt. She then faced Aries squarely, bearing her unchanging countenance. "Your Majesty, if you seek the answer for why your beloved brother shares the same face as Count Miguel, you can simply ask directly."

    Aries instantly froze at Giselle''s remarks. Her jaw tightened as her hands closed in tight fists.

    "I know you have been curious. I could''ve given you the answer even if you didn''t ask, but I didn''t." Despite having her eyes closed, Aries could feel Giselle''s observing gaze. "The reason for that was because the truth might hurt you more than you anticipated."

    "So that was your doing?" Ariesughed dryly.

    Giselle didn''t confirm or deny it, only to leave Aries a hint бк an answer Aries prayed wouldn''t be the case.

    "Anyone would get hurt if they found out that after many years, they truly hadn''t seen their brother''s appearance," Giselle hinted calmly, making Aries''s breath hitch. "You are a wise woman, Your Majesty. I''m certain you asked yourself this question: who borrowed whose face?"

 Chapter 886 I Hope You WonтАЩt Regret Your Bravery

    ?

    "You are a wise woman, Your Majesty. I''m certain you asked yourself this question: who borrowed whose face?"

    Aries secretly ground her teeth after Giselle''s remarks. Thetter''s expression didn''t change, but the sarcasm in the tone of her voice was apparent.

    How dare she? How dare she provoke Aries by bringing up her family, whom she dragged into her wicked games?

    Aries''s fist trembled, forcing herself to keep it together.

    "Are you truly concerned about what I''d feel? Or were you scared of the reaction you''d get from me?" Aries breathed out along with a dry and shortugh.

    "If I am terrified, we wouldn''t be here in the first ce."

    "I hope you won''t regret your bravery." Aries breathed a jagged breath, facing ahead, and resuming her march. "You mentioned it yourself, after all. We are at the peak of no return. Whether this path turns red or ck, we can only march forward."

    Giselle turned her head in Aries''s direction. She could not see because she was blind, but she could perfectly discern the weight of the queen''s remarks.

    Suzanne scoffed and red daggers at Giselle before following Aries. Meanwhile, the other members of the Raven could not help but look in Giselle''s direction.

    "Chief, do not let the Queen''s words get through you," said an underling. "She is a cunning woman. Do not get swayed."

    "Words were never enough to sway me." Giselle kept her face facing Aries''s direction. "However, I share her sentiments." бк Giselle also hoped to not regret this.

    "Let''s go," she added, taking a step forward to follow the queen toward the great hall where the coven would take ce. "Everyone has been waiting."

    With that being said, Giselle and the other members of the Raven marched through the long hallway. They caught up with Aries in no time since Aries was walking with her hands and feet bound. The weight of the metals around the Queen''s wrists and ankles slowed down her pace.

    This time, they walked in silence. Neither Aries nor Giselle started a conversation, knowing full well they had nothing to talk about anymore.

    Everything was already said. The conclusion of those sentiments was something they expected.

    They would never meet halfway.

    The walk on the way to the coven was thest chance both of them could stop what could''ve been stopped. Unfortunately, neither of them was willing to back down; they both couldn''t afford the consequences of raising the white g.

    Soon, Aries and everyone reached the front door of the great hall. Three members of the Raven guarded the door. Two of them were faces Aries had never seen since the start of her reign. But the one in the middle was someone she was very familiar with.

    Miguel Rothschild.

    "Should I be surprised that the great Count Miguel is here to wee me?" Aries remarked sarcastically while smirking.

    "Greetings to Your Majesty." Miguel kept a straight face while greeting her formally. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "I guess that means you finally decided which side you''d be taking," Aries continued, watching Miguel raise his head.

    Miguel''s stern countenance changed for a bit. "Yes, Your Majesty. Thanks to you, I found enlightenment."

    "Good for you." Aries rocked her head in understanding, shifting her eyes to the door behind Miguel. "These chains are heavy. Let''s go. I''ll be d to get this gathering over and done with."

    "Your Majesty, once you get inside, neither you nor I can stop the ceremony." Aries blinked ever so tenderly before shifting her gaze back to Miguel. "You have a choice to not go."

    "How bold of you to give such a suggestion right in front of the chief leader of the Raven." Aries could not help but chuckle, ncing over her shoulder to where Giselle was standing.

    "I am the Queen''s subject. Therefore, between you and the chief, I''d be under yourmand." Miguel wasn''t fazed as if Giselle was not present. "Please. Allow me to take you away from here."

    "And where will you be taking me?" Aries cocked her head to the side.

    "Far away from here, for sure."

    Ariesughed loudly at his answer. "Oh, goodness! How hrious!" She continued tough, finding Miguel''s courage silly.

    It would be different if Miguel asked her, while it was just the two of them. However, Giselle and a few members of the Raven could hear this conversation. If he was trying to mock them, Miguel seeded for sure.

    "Your Majesty бк" Miguel stopped as Aries waved dismissively.

    "I am not forced to be here, Count." Her smile remained. "I am here with all this weight because I wanted to. Though your offer is well-appreciated, I''d have to refuse."

    Aries snapped her head over her shoulder. "I reckon you already know my resolve hence, you felt no need to rush this conversation."

    "Open the door and stop stalling." She set her eyes to the front, directly at the two marshals behind Miguel. "I have no other business with the count."

    Aries couldn''t help but scoff when the marshals had to look in Giselle''s direction before following her. No words were said, but that slight action was enough to mock the queen.

    This goes to show that this council treats the queen''s words with little value. But then again, this surprised no one. The council here on the maind, the Raven, was beyond the control of the sovereign. If anything, they were people who had the liberty to see the sovereign''s vulnerability.

    "Move aside, Count." Aries''s tone was icy, eyes sharp the moment theynded on Miguel. "I might''ve appreciated your offer, but I''d appreciate it more if you stop interfering with me next time." бк though there might be no next time.

    Miguel lowered his head, taking a step to the side. The sound of her chains being dragged on the floor resonated in the air, walking past Miguel in an unhurried manner. However, just as Aries walked past him, Miguel spoke once again.

    "Once you get inside, I will not be your mere subject, but a member of this coven." Her steps halted momentarily while he raised his head. "I ask you for thest time, Your Majesty. Do not go."

    Aries secretly sped her hand before she loosened up her grip. She said nothing, moving her feet forth with her eyes fixed on the people in robes waiting for her in the great hall.

 Chapter 887 The Night Of The Full Moon

    ?

    The great hall was a ce where the throne of the sovereign stood gloriously. These walls had witnessed all the previous''s kings'' power, authority, and most vulnerable state. Standing before the throne бк on the lower ground before the steps to the raised tform бк was the current sovereign, the first woman who governed the maind, Queen Aries.

    Unlike the usual attire wrapped around her to disy her royal status, the Queen was nothing in a in dress. Her feet and hands were bound by the weight no one could easily carry, staring at the empty throne. Normally, the Queen would go straight to her throne while everyone below her could only stay on the level before the raised tform where the throne was at. Tonight, however, was a unique situation.

    Aries was prohibited from going back to her throne. She could only do so once the ceremony finished. Thus, Aries took a moment to gaze at it.

    Many memories shed across her mind the longer she stared at it. Thrones. Aries could barely remember the goodness these thrones had caused in her life. Starting from the time Joaquin marched in thend of Rikhill up until now, she was on the maind. The good memories this power had given her couldn''tpare to the terrible ones.

    What was so good about power?

    These stools were easily broken, yet the person sitting upon them could ruin many people''s lives.

    Aries breathed out faintly, swallowing down the growing repugnance in her head. She closed her eyes and took another deep breath. When she reopened her eyes, she turned her back against the throne to face the members of the Raven.

    They were surrounding her, wearing uniformed ck robes. The only difference was the color of their belts, disying each of them had different ranks in the council. A few of them had brooches attached to their chest; one of those was Miguel Rothschild and Giselle. It stood as a symbol of their importance in this council.

    What a way to disy their power and rank without saying a word.

    "What now?" Aries''s soft voice pierced the stifling silence in the great hall. "Shall we start the ceremony?"

    Suzanne, who was not a part of this ceremony, clenched her teeth. She stood on the side; her body was already in battle mode. If she sensed danger бк which was something they already expected бк she would step in.

    ''Forget about the ceremony,'' was what she kept telling herself over and over. ''Once her life is threatened, I don''t care if there were hundreds of them. Witchesбн you better do your job properly.''

    Her eyes shone wildly, hearing her heart thump loudly against her chest. Aries had a n, and the witches had been working on it to make it happen. Suzanne just had to trust Aries and those witches. Taking action now because of the quiet tension might only sabotage the queen''s ns.

    "Sureбн" Suzanne trailed off when Miguel suddenly raised a hand. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "Chief leader, apologies for interrupting you. However, before our ceremony starts, there is a concern I have to raise." Everyone, including Aries, shifted their attention to Miguel, watching the man take a step forward.

    Miguel kept his eyes on Aries as he dropped his hand to his side. "As a member of this council, it is my duty to make sure the ceremony will proceed without a problem. In the past dynasties, all the kings were cooperative. Therefore, this council was confident we could do this tradition that dated back since the founding of the Maind."

    "This time, however, is different. The new sovereign, the Queen, had no blood rtion to the royal family. She is, but an outsider thete King Maximus IV took in thisnd for his own reason. His death was unprecedented and thus, by thew, the queen seeded the throne," he continued.

    "Your point being?" Aries arched her brow, keeping her icy countenance. Miguel also kept a straight face without looking away from her; it was an attitude he had never shown her until now.

    "Since you were an outsider with an association with the cursed n, the Grimsbanne n, I, Count Miguel, the firstborn of Duke Rothschild, one of the founding families, had to make certain you will not break this tradition."

    Aries smirked, and a scoff slipped past her lips. She knew the rules of this coven. At least once a year or once every two years, the sovereign of the maind would be humbled by the council. In other words, they were all on the same footing. The council had no obligation to hold back; anything that was said during the annual coven would have to stay within the coven.

    Not being able to approach her throne was the best disy of the loss of power of the queen. Even the previous kings had to face such humiliation. No wonder Maximus IV had a great grudge against the council.

    Aries rocked her head in understanding. "Aren''t you a littlete for that, though?" she tilted her head to the side.

    "Shouldn''t you do this duty you kept boasting about before the ceremony? Or were you stalling time?" Aries blinked ever so tenderly, but her eyes grew sharper. "Count Miguel, if you are doing this to make me change my mind again, I advice you to leave the room."

    "I said it before you step in here, Your Majesty." Miguel''s eyes were challenging, looking at her as if they were on the same level. "I will not just be your mere subject once you step into this coven. My duties as a member of this council wille first."

    Miguel took a deliberate pause, growing calmer with every passing second. Giselle, the chief leader of the council, remained quiet, as if she didn''t have any ns to hasten this dy. If anything, it seemed Giselle had already expected such a turn.

    "You made your decision, and so I have to make mine." Miguel nced into the queen''s handmaiden before he ordered, "Seize her."

 Chapter 888 Fight With Us

    ?

    "Seize her."

    Two members of the Raven suddenly appeared behind Suzanne. Suzanne was subdued by one of them in a blink of an eye.

    "What''s the meaning of this?!" yelled Suzanne after hitting her chin against the floor.

    One of the men who subdued her ced his hand on the back of her head. He tripped her, which caused her to lose bnce, falling on her face.

    "Ughбн" she ground her teeth, struggling to move, but s, the man stepped on her back while keeping his hand on the back of her head and the other on her hands behind her.

    Aries''s eyes widened. Everything happened so fast, giving her no time to react.

    "I am aware she is Your Majesty''s handmaiden. However, after a thorough investigation, we found out she plotted a scheme behind Your Majesty''s back." Aries slowly set her dted eyes back to Miguel as thetter spoke authoritatively.

    "Schemed behind my back?"

    Miguel blinked ever so slowly while nodding. "This gathering is a must бк a tradition that all kings had to go through. Your handmaiden, however, colluded with the witches to sabotage our good purpose."

    "Hahбн" Aries couldn''t help but scoff, assessing Miguel''s countenance. Meanwhile, Suzanne froze; she stopped struggling upon hearing Miguel''sst remarks.

    The witches?

    Suzanne held her breath and shifted her gaze to Miguel. ''He knewбн?'' She gasped mentally, panicking emotionally.

    How did Miguel find out?

    "Do not fret, Your Majesty," said Miguel, breaking the brief silence. "It was good we found out about it early on. Therefore, we were able to stop their vile n. I already received a report from my men that they already ceased the witches."

    Some members of the Raven sneered. Half of their face hid under the shade of their hood. However, Aries could sense the mockery and proud gaze on her.

    "Witches, huh?" Ariesughed dryly, making a slight noise with her chains as her hand trembled.

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Miguel nodded. "It was a vile thing to do for a handmaiden to put the sovereign in danger. But the Raven already handled it. Do not worry."

    "Youбн" Suzanne''s voice rumbled low, eyes bloodshot.

    For certain, Miguel was aware it wasn''t Suzanne''s ns, but Aries''s. However, the man smoothly pinned it on Suzanne since Suzanne did all the legwork while Aries concocted the n.

    Suzanne clenched her teeth as her eyes stung from anger. However, if what Miguel said was true, then it was better for Suzanne to take the fall.

    Who knew what they would do if Suzanne spoke unnecessarily?

    "Ha! Hahaha!" Suzanneughed like a maniac. "How dare you sabotage my ns, Miguel Rothschild?! That woman does not deserve everything she has now! Queen of the maind?! Don''t make meugh! This woman is no Queen!"<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Her voice echoed across all corners of the great hall. "Rikhill, Maganti, and Haimirich! You coveted all thrones you can through vile means бк she does not deserve anothernd to ruin!"

    Aries held her fist tightly until they trembled, looking at Suzanne''s desperate attempt to make the situation as it was.

    Miguel flicked his finger, signaling for the man to shut her up. Thetter immediately pressed his hand on the back of Suzanne''s head, adding weight to squeeze her jaw.

    "How vile." Miguel shook his head mildly, sighing as he looked back at Aries. "We heard you revived her, sacrificing a few years of your life out of the goodness of your heart. However, after a thorough investigation, we found out that if not for Marse Grimsbanne, this woman would have harmed you while you were conducting arge-scale cleansing in the cursed Haimirich Empire."

    "If not for Marse?" Aries scoffed. "It seemed Marse truly hadn''t learned her lesson, huh?"

    "I understand your disbelief and dismay, Your Majesty. Your handmaiden had the face of an angel. However, it seemed to me she deliberately gained your trust for a terrible cause."

    "Miguel Rothschildбн!"

    "Your Majesty." This time, Miguel''s tone was firm. "You may be an outsider, but one fact remains. You are now the current Queen who owned that throne behind you. Once the coven is over, you will sit upon it to reim the power that makes you untouchable."

    Miguel advanced in Aries''s direction until he was a step away from her. "The Raven will pledge to be under your strict order; this council will be under yourmand, Your Majesty."

    Aries ground her teeth, snapping her eyes to the members of the Raven. Some of them ced their hands across their chest as a sign of agreement to Miguel''s remarks. Giselle, the chief leader, remained stiff. However, her silence meant she agreed with the words Miguel was spewing.

    Miguel smiled subtly, satisfied at the council''s response. He then set his attention back to the Queen before him.

    "My Queen, we are not your enemy," he continued sincerely. "We simply need reassurance that your intention for thisnd is pure and sincere. Being an outsider was never the case. After all, being the holder of Maleficent is enough proof you are capable of ruling the vampires."

    "Reassurance?" Ariesughed, trying her best to keep her head clear. "By that, you meantбн ending the existence of the Grimsbanne?"

    Miguel didn''t answer immediately; his dyed response was enough for Aries to know his answer.

    "Yes." Miguel didn''t deny it, though. "The Grimsbanne had always been a threat to us. That is why the council left them all alone for many years. However, with what thete King Maximus IV had done, we were forced to fight the Grimsbanne."

    "Thete King Maximus IV pushed us on the edge," added Miguel. "We had no other choice but to fight, Your Majesty."

    Deep lines appeared between Aries''s brows, studying Miguel''s countenance. She nced in Giselle''s direction, only to realize there might be some truth in Miguel''s vague remarks.

    "Please, Your Majesty," Miguel spoke again, taking another step closer to Aries. His face moved forward, lowering his head to whisper in her ear.

    "Fight with us," he whispered, his eyes sliding to her. "Choose me, Aime."

    The moment Aries heard the name her brother used to call her, her eyes slowly widened. Miguel slowly drew his head back, offering her a warm smile with an affectionate gaze that Davien would always give her.

 Chapter 889 Friends

    Miguel''s eyes softened as he slowly drew back, catching the shock stered on Aries''s face. The corner of his lips curled up subtly, blinking ever so tenderly. As he did so, Miguel was slowly pulled back into the memory of the past.

    ****

    Miguel never expected to have a great friendship with the king of Rikhill. Alexander was a great man. Although Alexander was the king that defied all concepts of a ruler Miguel had, the man was a great person.

    Alexander might be the king, but he didn''t stay on his throne where he couldn''t see beyond the pce walls. Alexander believed a king wasn''t just someone who owned the throne, but someone who understood his people more than anyone. Thus, he would regrly leave his throne to live a life closer to his subject.

    This was the reason, throughout Miguel''s stay in thend of green, he spent a fair amount of time to know what Alexander was truly like. Not just the king, but the people of thisnd and all those trading with them.

    "It saddens me that a good friend is departing tomorrow." Sitting on one of the stacked crates in the corner of the fort, Alexander cast his dear friend a look. "So, are you going back to your mothend?"

    Miguel was also sitting on a crate much lower than Alexander''s. His gaze scanned the surrounding.

    The sun was already about to set with the golden rays shining upon thend of Rikhill. But s, the fort was still very much alive and active. Some caravels just came docking by the fort. Others were just starting to unload their ships.

    This was a sight Miguel had grown used to after two months of stay. Regr and new partners woulde, showing manynds wanted to trade with thend of Rikhill or simply wanted to treat thisnd as their trading ce with another kingdom.

    The trades in the kingdom don''t only offer direct trade with Rikhill, but trade with other kingdoms as well. They simply had to pay a small fee for that. Therefore, it gained its reputation as a trading center.

    "What a bafflingly amusing ce," murmured Miguel after a minute of silence. "Thisnd is small, but it didn''t feel too crowded or too all over the ce."

    "Heh," Alexander smirked proudly. "Because people alwayse and go. Moreover, with a proper system everyone follows, things are more organized."

    "Thend of Rikhill, hun?" Miguel rested his leg over the other, leaning his back against the wall of the storage room. He looked heavenward, staring at the beautiful orange sky with a subtle smile.

    "You can stay as long as you want," Alexander offered while staring at Miguel''s side profile.

    "Before stepping on thisnd, I''ve been through different kingdoms. Some of them were in civil war, struck with famine, and all sorts of repercussions from human disasters. Therefore, my impression of humans reached rock bottom." Miguel''s smile stretched. "But after staying in here, listening to human woes, adventures, different practices and cultures, and their continuous will to seek the betterment of their lives. The outside world was truly vast."

    Alexander chuckled. "That is correct. I won''t deny that there were parts of this world that were unfortunate to have ridiculous people in them. However, this world is vast."

    "There were certain areas that lived in darkness where the light of hope couldn''t pierce through." Alexander''s face softened as he looked at the activity in the fort. "That is why I was hopeful that as these trades expand, it could eventually reach those ces."

    "Thosends were hopeless," humored Miguel, casting Alexander a side-eye. "Until now, you are an idealistic man. You cannot save the world, Your Majesty."

    "I know, but at least, if I can offer an opportunity for them to take the first step бк their stepping stone бк what''s so bad about it?" Alexander shrugged, facing Miguel squarely with a grin on his face. "After meeting different people from different parts of the world, I realized one mightck something in one area, they were riched in another."

    "For instance, thend of Rikhill is riched in mineral resources, but weck certain things. If what a nation has was needed by anotherбн" he exined enthusiastically, going on and on. The lively tone of his voice and how his face brightened up only showed his dream of attaining world peace. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "... that being said, it will also connect all parts of the world. Just think, if everyone were trading fairly. Wars will cease to exist and everyone is connected! We''ll have a better understanding of one another and who knew? Your Mothend might reconsider joining the rest of the world!" Alexander pped, only to realize he had been running his mouth due to his excitement.

    "Ahem! Apologies." Alexander cleared his throat, his fist in front of his lips. "It seemed I got carried away. But yes, that''s the goal."

    "Haha. What a foolish man." Miguel shook his head, making Alexander frown. He looked away, gazing at the horizon where the sun was going down. His eyelids dropped, maintaining his subtle yet sincere smile.

    Alexander was truly a foolish man. However, Miguel wished nothing but the best for this foolish king''s sess in his life''s purpose.

    The two of them chatted until the sun was down, cherishing their moments together before Miguel''s departure. They even shared booze; Alexander sometimes acted like a pirate, setting up a small bonfire in the fort and throwing a party for the reason that his dear friend would depart tomorrow. He nned to send Miguel off in high spirits.

    When dawn rolled in, some people were passed out everywhere. They surely drank until they dropped. Meanwhile, Miguel and his men prepared to set sail, loading crates that were containing important goods.

    "I am amazed how you hold your liquor," praised Miguel to the man who was sending him off.

    "Don''t mention it. This is a skill honed for many years." Miguel waved dismissively, and then grinned from ear to ear. "Will youe back again, my friend?"

    "I am not sure. After all, I don''t remember having a peaceful nap during my stay because you keep bugging me."

    "Ehбн don''t be like that."

    "However, once I finish my expedition, I might drop by to see if your goal had any progress."

    "Of course it will!" Alexander eximed with certainty. "Just wait!"

    Miguel chuckled, turning his back against the king. "Don''t worry. I have all the time in the world. It doesn''t matter if your missionsts for a century. I''m certain I''m still alive that timeбн though I''m not sure if you are."

    Alexander blinked, watching the retreating Miguel get on the ship. It took him a minute before realizing Miguel''s remarks, which made his face turn red.

    "Hey, what did you say, you jerk!" Alexander threw a huge feat while the ship started to leave the fort. After yelling and calling Miguel all sorts of names, Alexander panted.

    "Hey!!! You bettere back!" Alexander yelled once more, garnering all his reserved energy on the departing ship. "It doesn''t matter how long it takes! Take care on your journey, my friend!"

    Miguel stood by the dock, watching how Alexander''s figure turn small and small as their distance grew farther and farther. The corner of his lips curled up. If not for his keen ears, there was no way a normal person would hear what Alexander was yelling.

    "I''d see you againбн" he whispered with a subtle smile. "... my friend."

    Little did Miguel know, the effects of staying in thend of Rikhill were just about to set deep in his bones.

 Chapter 890 Jealousy

    ?

    Miguel set sail to venture into the rest of the world. This time, he kept an open mind to everyone''s differences in culture, practices, and beliefs. Some countries left him in awe, others left him with a heavy heart.

    It was an adventure, to say the least.

    It took him years to return to his mothend, bringing the tales from the outside world. However, what Miguel had forgotten was that the maind was unlike any other in the rest of the world.

    Each country might have its own differences and unique characteristics, but there was always a redeeming quality. Not all kingdoms were reigned by peace or unity, but all those kingdoms only shared one fate: disaster.

    It reminded him of what the maind was like. This vampire''s nest might appear quiet and peaceful, but it was far from that. Starting from the goods in the market down to the strict hierarchy everyone was following, there was no real freedom.

    Still, Miguel didn''t allow this to dishearten him. Change was always possible. Thus, upon meeting the king on his return, he brought up the stories he treasured in the outside world.

    "Moreover, thend of Rikhill is nning to extend their trades. If we simply offered our helping hand, establishing our dearnd as part of the rest of the world would be easier!" Miguel remarked with great determination and hope, scanning everyone in the royal court. "From my experience, many monarchs knew the existence of our kind. If only we proved we meant no harm, they will eventually ept us!"

    "Thend of Rikhillбн if my memory serves right, this is the rumored nest of the fae?" one minister spoke while stroking his long white beard.

    "Yes. But this rumor is simply a rumor," was Miguel''s immediate answer, only for another minister to chime in.

    "How are you certain it was simply a rumor, Count Miguel? From what I heard, you and the king of green built camaraderie during your stay in theirnd. How are you certain he didn''t befriend you simply to blur your judgment?"

    Miguel''s breath hitched, looking at everyone with wide eyes. "Youбн don''t you trust me?" He asked in disbelief.

    He didn''t notice it until now, but the line of questioning was akin to an interrogation. They had no interest in hearing his tales but were more fixated on their own interest.

    One of the reasons Miguel came to Rikhill was to confirm the rumors. Once he confirmed it, he was tasked to capture one by means or foul.

    "This is not about trust, Count Miguel. We sent you to do the mission, giving you the privilege of setting out of the maind without hurting yourself with the rules of our great kingdom, because we are confident with your skills," exined another minister, who was sitting beside Duke Rothschild. "However, humans might be weak creatures. Yet their greed and wickedness were beyond one''s imagination. They were cunning. They may have deceived you with their sinful words and pretentious gestures."

    "That is right," another one backed up.

    "What this court is saying is we trust you not because you are His Grace''s heir, but we respect and trust you as an individual."

    Miguel slowly sped his hand, his shoulders trembling. He bit his tongue, keeping quiet as the ministers of the court spoke their piece one after another. His eyes moved to his father, who was also in the court, and as expected, his father kept his silence and stern countenance.

    "You speak about trust and respect and yet, everything I heard contradicts all those I mentioned." Silence in the royal court followed as soon as the king, the man sitting on the throne, spoke. "So much hypocrisy in this court, indeed."

    "Your Majestyбн" one minister called nervously while Miguel slowly turned his head in the king''s direction.

    "I am certain Count Miguel did his mission with the best he can. Not because he brought news different from what you expected doesn''t mean he had failed," the king continued, nodding reassuringly at Miguel. "You are saying those rumors were simply rumors?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Miguel''s thudding heart calmed down with the king''s intimidating yet understanding air. "Although there is a child''s tale about them, there was nothing to prove the rumor."

    "Are you certain about this?"

    "Yes. I infiltrated and observed the royal family бк even the king himself," Miguel answered with certainty. After all, he initially allowed Alexander to linger around him to study him.

    "I see." The king rocked his head in understanding. "Then that leaves my heart at ease. If the rumors aren''t true, then there is no reason to be rmed by a prophecy, a witch once uttered in thisnd."

    That was right.

    A long time ago, a powerful witch stepped foot in thisnd. They said she was powerful enough to bring the previous king to his knees. Even if the noble vampires came together to defeat her, they failed miserably.

    Records have it that the maind was nearly ruined, if not for the interference of one man. A man who was also a part of the shunned n, the Grimsbanne n. They said it only took one member of the Grimsbanne n to take down this witch.

    During the witch''sst moment, she took a glimpse of the future.

    [One day, the world will collect what you people owed. Lead by a fae, this sinfulnd will fall into ruin. ]

    Those were the witch''s exact words before taking herst breath. Even though this happened many centuries ago, it still somehow bothered the current monarch. Hence, Miguel''s mission came into existence.

    "Enough with your banters now. Do not bring your personal interest in this court ever again," continued the king to his officials. "We will hold a recognition ceremony for the count''s sessful mission."

    The king''s eyes slowly fell on the duke before shifting them in Miguel''s direction. "You did a good job, boy. Return to your mother before we set the recognition date. She would be delighted to hear the news."

    "Yes, Your Majesty." Miguel stood from his seat, bowing with his fist across his chest. Relief dominated his face, d to have this man as his king.

    Little did Miguel know, someone in the royal court, who disliked the favor Miguel was receiving from the king, was listening.

    Maximus IV.

 Chapter 891 Acceptance Comes With Peace

    ?

    It was no secret many adored Count Miguel Rothschild. This young heir had proved himself time and time again ever since he was a young boy. Miguel Rothschild was exceptional and impressive in every aspect. Even the king himself was impressed by this young Lord.

    Miguel Rothschild wasn''t even trying. He liked what he did; his love for his mothend was inborn. He always wanted to be like his father, aiming to serve the king and their people.

    However, being born into one of the founding families and earning fame from his achievements had its downsides. One of those was the constantparison between the young lords anddies and the young princes and princesses.

    In this case, everyone in Miguel''s generation waspared to him. The reason many men around his age disliked him. Maximus IV was first on the list.

    Perhaps that was the reason why Maximus IV set his eyes on thend of Rikhill. It was all because he wanted Miguel to fail; he wanted the king to stop taking Miguel''s side and start looking in his direction.

    *** YEARS LATER ***

    Miguel was permitted to go on a voyage. The time on the Maind passed by in a blink of an eye. Twenty years since hisst expedition felt only like a year. Still, he was hopeful.

    The kingdom of Rikhill was not one of his set destinations for he was tasked to venture into the undiscovered part of the outside world. However, it wouldn''t hurt if he dropped by for a moment.

    No one would know.

    Meeting his friend once again ted Miguel. But what truly delighted him was the news he wanted to ry to his dearest friend Alexander.

    "Count." Miguel''s hurried steps halted in the hallways when someone called him from behind. "I heard you will set sail tomorrow."

    Miguel slowly looked back, only to confirm his guess. "Greetings, Your Highness." He bowed politely while Maximus IV approached.

    "It seemed you are excited," remarked Maximus IV as soon as he stopped a step away from Miguel. "It''s been a while since yourst expedition. Thest time, I didn''t get to send you off properly. Therefore, as a good luck wish, will you ept my invitation for a ss of wine?"

    Miguel assessed the kind smile dominating Maximus IV. The prince looked as harmless as ever. Even though the two of them knew each other for years, meeting in gatherings asionally, and regrly in the royal court, Maximus IV was hard to read.

    But one thing was for sure. No matter how harmless this prince appeared, Miguel could never trust his looks. Not that Maximus IV did something to him in the past. It was just that Maximus IV was still a part of the royal family.

    "You wouldn''t turn me down, would you?" Maximus IV cocked his head to the side after a minute of silence.

    "How dare I turn down Your Highness''s kind offer?" Miguel smiled, throwing all suspicion at the back of his head. "It''s my pleasure."

    "Great!"

    With that being said, Miguel followed Maximus IV to the Prince''s Quarter. Maximus IV might appear weak and sickly, but one shouldn''t judge him by his appearance. This also applied to his harmless and kind gestures.

    After all, the King had yet to announce his heir. Although it was already obvious who it would be since Maximus IV was the best candidate to be the next monarch, the King''s reluctance still put a lot of uncertainty in it.

    But all those thoughts were kept at the back of Miguel''s head. Perhaps Maximus IV wasn''t that bad. The prince might truly bear pure intention; how rude of Miguel to allow all these negative thoughts to cloud his mind.

    Soon, Miguel found himself in the prince''s drawing room.

    "The wine you brought from yourst voyage had be one of my favorites," said Maximus IV as he slid a ss of wine to the man sitting on the long settee. "I''ve been saving up thest bottle for an important asion."

    Miguel nced at the winess before lifting his eyes to Maximus IV. "Thank you, Your Highness. I feel honored to have you serve me this precious wine."

    "You are this kingdom''s beloved Count. You are worthy to share what''s mine."

    "Compared to Your Highness, I am simply a young Lord of a small county," Miguel humbled. "I might be a Rothschild, but my father''s aplishments were his, not mine."

    Maximus IV maintained his subtle smile. "Count Miguel, no wonder many admire you. You are capable and yet, you do not gloat about it."

    "You speak highly of me, Your Highness."

    "Even the king adored you." Maximus IV propped his elbow against the armrest, swirling the wine with his other hand. "His Majesty adored you even more than his own son. Deny it all you want, but I, the prince, know that very well."

    The humbled smile on Miguel''s lips faded. He assessed the prince''s countenance, but to no avail. Maximus IV''s tone and countenance didn''t reveal any bitterness or sort of like that.

    "Do not worry, Count Miguel. I had epted that my father did not favor me a long time ago. It was also the reason he hadn''t announced an heir for he didn''t trust me." Maximus IV chuckled as he guided the winess to his lips. "eptance will give you peace. Therefore, I do not mind the reality."

    Miguel watched Maximus IV take a sip leisurely. He pressed his lips into a thin line, lowering his eyes to his drink.

    Just how would he drink this wine without feeling bad about it? It was true the King often took Miguel''s side, especially in the royal court, but he believed the king had done so because Miguel''s perspective of things aligned with the king''s. The Rothschild had been the most loyal retainers of the royal family, after all.

    "Do not pity me, Lord Miguel. That would be rude and very unpleasant to feel." Maximus IV chuckled upon sensing Miguel''s gloomy aura. "There''s no room for pity here since eptancees with resolution."

    Maximus IV smirked as he added under his breath, "And my resolve had given me peace." бк a peace that would surely bring the opposite to everyone else.

 Chapter 892 The Curse Of Rikhill

    ?

    Miguel should''ve known what this peace and resolution Maximus IV talking about. He only realized this when he arrived in the kingdom of Rikhill. Twenty years had been since hisst visit to the said kingdom, and he could tell there were a lot of changes in thisnd.

    The trades were still going on with people from all across the globe docking in the kingdom''s fort. Peace was still reigning over thend. Rikhill had prospered drastically even after two decades. Many goods were new to Miguel; some were new inventions that no one thought would exist two decades ago.

    Surely, humans were quick to adapt to this ever-evolving world. Their will to seek change and advancement was iparable to other races in the world. Two decades wasn''t that long for a vampire thus, it wasn''t surprising these changes would take some time for them.

    If thend of Rikhill was prospering more than ever and peace still ruled over it, what was the problem?

    The royal family. To be precise, the king''s newborn child.

    Davien Heathcliffe.

    On his way to the royal pce, Miguel heard a lot of stories about the royal family. The king was finally fathering his heir, his firstborn son. Normally, when the king had a son, people rejoiced. When the crown prince turns one, he would be exposed to the public.

    However, the crown prince was already three and was yet seen by anyone. Hence, rumors arose. Some were worried there was a mistake, and the Queen didn''t give birth to a son, but a daughter. Others assumed there was another deeper reason the royal family was reluctant to expose the prince to the public.

    This wasn''t any prince, after all. This prince was the future king.

    ''The royal pceбн'' Miguel lifted his gaze to the window of the carriage, frowning. ''... are cursed.''

    Miguel slowly balled his hand into a tight fist, sensing this dark aura enveloping the royal pce. Humans wouldn''t detect this, but as a pureblooded noble vampire, Miguel was certain about it. A capable witch would also feel this powerful shroud hovering over the royal pce.

    "This isn''t just any spell," came out a whisper, already doing his brief analysis before meeting his dearest friend. "It''s an ancient spell only those selected few from the Maind were familiar with."

    His expression turned sour as his heart pounded against his ribcage. He didn''t have a good feeling about this, knowing this type of spell was a serious matter. They wouldn''t be able to break it easily, especially if the caster was a powerful one. If one wanted to undo it, they should be more powerful than the caster.

    The point was, this spell alone required unimaginable power toplete. It was given the caster was already powerfulбн much more powerful than Miguel to cast such a curse. Miguel wasn''t a witch, after all. He learned a bit of a spell growing up, but that was it.

    ''Who in the worldбн'' his jaw tightened as soon as the carriage entered the premises of the pce. The heaviness of this spell instantly fell on his shoulder. Others wouldn''t feel it, but as a vampire, the effects of this were apparent.

    *

    *

    *

    "My friend!"

    Miguel stopped steps after the entrance to the king''s private drawing room. Alexander had this humble smile on his slightly wrinkly face, offering his good friend a warm greeting.

    "It''s been a while, Your Majesty." Miguel performed a neck bow with a stern expression.

    "Haha! It has been." Alexander nodded, marching to the settee ever so slowly. "Although I''m surprised. It''s been two decades since yourst visit, but you still look the same."

    When Miguel lifted his head, the king was already sitting in the armchair. Thetter motioned to his hand, silently offering Miguel a seat. Miguel didn''t practice modesty, taking up the king''s offer and taking a seat across from him.

    Alexander the king assessed the man across from him, chuckling. "I remembered you mentioned two decades ago that you are much older than I am. I didn''t believe it, but now that you are here, after two decades, how foolish am I to doubt your words?"

    "Humans believe what they see." Miguel''s voice was almost toneless. "I do not me you, since you never met a vampire before me."

    "Haha. That''s for sure. How nice would it be to be a vampire? You, people, do not grow old. Time was never your enemy." Alexander leaned backfortably. "Meanwhile, humans have so little time. Therefore, we have to aplish everything we can in such a short borrowed time."

    "Your remarks would offend me if it''s not you."

    "I know." Alexander''s eyes softened, smiling warmly at his dearest friend. "How have you been, my friend? I was worried about you for the past two decades."

    "Why would you be worried about me when you know I am capable enough to survive centuries all alone?"

    Alexander shrugged. "Just because. Regardless if you were a vampire or not, you are still my friend. Therefore, you will cross my mind every now and then."

    Silence fell on their shoulders as the two of them stared at each other. King Alexander maintained his warm smile while Miguel kept his stoic countenance.

    When Miguel spoke, he was direct. "What happened, Alexander?"

    The king''s smile remained, but the mixed emotions in his eyes swirled in his eyes. That look in his eyes was enough proof something serious happened in the past two decades.

    "I bet you heard a lot of stories on your way here. Particrly stories about the crown prince." The king lowered his eyes as his tone quieted down. "You might be wondering why I haven''t exposed the crown prince in public бк"

    "Whoбн did it?" Miguel breathed out, cutting the king off mid-sentence. Thetter lifted his eyes back to him, surprised. "I am no ordinary person, Alexander. I know this ce is cursed, and if I am correct, this heaviness enveloping the royal family ising from your son."

    Miguel paused to rpose himself, sping hisp. "Who did it?"

    There was a moment of silence between the two of them before the king''s lips parted, dropping the name Miguel didn''t expect to hear.

    Maximus IV.

 Chapter 893 The Wicked

    ?

    It wouldn''t be a surprise to hear n names from the maind in the outside world. Many vampires had fled the maind, making names on their own far away from thend where they were treated as a nobody.

    Miguel had met and heard a few ''traitors'' during his expedition. However, confronting them was not his mission. Unless they stayed away from his business, Miguel wouldn''t meddle with theirs. So far, Miguel only confronted one, and the result was an obvious victory.

    That was why the surprise when Alexander uttered Maximus IV''s name.

    He would understand if the king spoke of another name, but not the prince of the maind. Maximus IV never left the Maind, but it seemed Miguel was wrong.

    "I will never forget that man''s name or his face as my heart fills with horror at the thought of him. It was around a year after you departed Rikhill that man appeared in my chamber in the middle of the night." Alexander paced leisurely through the king''s pce with Miguel following a step behind him. "He was alone, but the damage he caused within the royal pce was unimaginable. When asked why he had to ughter my people when he could''ve intruded in my abode unnoticed, he saidбн to kill time."

    Miguel held his fist tightly to his side, eyes on the king''s vulnerable back. Even though he couldn''t see the king''s face, he could sense the bitterness dominating his countenance.

    Alexander secretly gritted his teeth, taking a deep breath to forget that mortifying night neen years ago. Maximus IV was unlike his friend Miguel. Although Miguel had a harsh way of words, he was an honest, fair, and sensible vampire.

    Maximus IV was the opposite of Miguel. He was crude, confidently wicked, and vengeful. He was someone incapable to feel remorse. Hisck of sheer humanity truly gave a face to the terror of the existence of his kind.

    "I thought that night was the end of Rikhill. However, even before I could wield my sword, he took me down with a snap of his finger," Alexander continued somberly. "I felt hopeless, but at the same time, I didn''t feel the need to beg. At that time, I didn''t know why. But after that incident, I realized why I didn''t beg on my knees to save my people."

    "He will end Rikhill whether or not you do," Miguel guessed, making the king rock his head.

    "If I''m going to die as a failure of a king, I''d rather die as a failure with the little pride left in me." Alexanderughed mockingly. "I am pathetic, am I?"

    "I am not the one to judge your decision. As a man, I''d probably do the same."

    "But I am not just a man, my friend. I am the king of thisnd." Alexander stopped in front of the window, turning his head to it to see the setting sun. "I am a man people would look up to. I am someone they''d see and tell themselves they could sleep at night in peace, knowing they''re under my protection."

    "Every decision I make affects millions of people," he continued. "I am aware of howplicated this power I hold in my hand, but only then did I realize the weight of the crown."

    Miguel studied Alexander''s side profile while the faint golden ray shone upon thetter''s face. Catching the helplessness and conflict pooling in the king''s eyes, the heaviness in Miguel''s heart weighed heavier.

    "I am notining, but I feel sorry for my son, my friend. That night, I had to choose between my people and myself. As a king, I wanted to protect my people, even if that means sacrificing my own life. If only I knew what he truly meant that nightбн" Alexander trailed off andughed bitterly, peeling his eyes from the window to continue his steps to their destination. "If I knew what he truly meant that night, would my decision change? I guess not."

    As the king, his priority was his people. Before himself, before anything else. Still, the guilt of sacrificing his own son grew heavier with every passing day.

    Miguel quietly followed Alexander, keeping two steps behind the man. Thetter didn''t say anything afterward. Thanks to their light footsteps, it filled in the noisy silence that could deafen them

    Soon, the two of them reached a heavily guarded door. The knights outside the door paid respect to the king before making way for the monarch and his guest. No one could enter this ce aside from the king and queen of thend and their most loyal servants. This was the young crown prince''s room, after all.

    "Come in, my friend." Alexander looked back as Miguel stopped before the open door.

    Reluctance flickered in Miguel''s eyes but still mustered the courage to step in. As soon as he did, the door behind him shut.

    Alexander marched toward another connecting door. He had to open it on his own, as this time it wasn''t guarded. As soon as the door was pushed open, Miguel heard a young boy''s voice.

    "Father!" Miguel caught a glimpse of a boy''s little hands as thetter had them spread open as he weed his father. Alexander was blocking his view, and thus, Miguel could only see the boy embrace his father''s leg.

    Alexander chuckled before carrying the boy in his arms. There seemed to be nothing wrong with the child until Alexander faced Miguel with his son in his arms.

    "Davien, this is your father''s dear friend." The king smiled warmly at Miguel before shifting his eyes to his son. "He is the man I kept telling you about."

    The young boy''s thick brows rose, setting his small eyes on Miguel. Innocence filled the boy''s eyes, but his faceбн His animalistic face contradicted the innocence of the boy.

    ''Thisбн'' Miguel held his breath, understanding the reason behind the king''s reluctance to expose his son to the public.

    The crown prince carried the face of a monster. No matter how loved the royal family was, this ''defect'' was enough to bring horror to thisnd.

    ''Maximus IVбн'' Miguel''s inner voice trembled in anger as if he could hear Maximus IV''s evilughter at this moment of revtion. ''I am going to ughter you.''

 Chapter 894 The Truth Behind The Curtain

    ?

    "Maximus IV spared my life." Alexander sat on the settee with his eyes on his beloved son. The crown prince, Davien, had his head resting on the king''sp, exhausted after ying for hours. Sitting across from the two of them was Miguel, keeping his face on the boy''s sleeping figure.

    "Although he ced a curse on my bloodline to make sure my children will understand his heart." Alexander the Kingbed his son''s thick hair. "I didn''t truly understand his remarks back then until my Queen gave birth to our son."

    His eyes softened with bitterness, forcing himself to smile. "No matter how loved and epted the monarchs were, I''m scared... for my children. Even a good normal life seemed impossible for them."

    That was true.

    Having such a horrendous face warrants all the terrible things that could happen to a person. Even if the King proimed the child dead and send him far away from the royal pce, there was no guarantee he would be safe beyond the pce walls.

    Anyone who would see his son''s face would be horrified. Alexander was aware of what a person could do if they see something unusual; they might stone his son to death. Hence, his only solution was to lock his son within the pce walls, where he was certain he would be safe.

    "Understand his heartбн?" Miguel murmured, repeating the keyword from Alexander''s remarks.

    "I spent days and nights trying to understand the meaning of it, but I only came up with one answer." Alexander lifted his eyes at the man sitting across from him. "He wanted me to understand what it felt to not be epted. Although somehow, I wonderбн if that is what he truly wants, why would he curse my children instead of me?"

    ''Because you will suffer more,'' was the answer Miguel came up with, and he was certain Alexander had already thought about it before.

    "I''mбн sorry." Miguel breathed out, hanging his head low to express his sincere apology. "This wouldn''t happen because of me."

    "Why would it be your fault?" Alexander chuckled.

    "Maximus IV is a prince from the maind. If not for me, he wouldn''t set his eyes on thisnd."

    Alexanderughed gently once again while shaking his head. "You do not need to apologize, Count Miguel. Whether or not you came here, I''m certain someone else will because of the tales thisnd had."

    Miguel''s expression turned sour, having this need to deny the truth. He straightened his back and set his eyes back on the king, only to see warmth and appreciation in thetter''s eyes.

    How could he still look at Miguel so sincerely despite everything that had happened to his family?

    "I''m d to have met and befriend you, Count. It put my heart at ease now that you are here." Alexander smiled subtly. "Now, I am certain you had nothing to do with this."

    Miguel''s jaw tightened, understanding the king''s sentiments. He couldn''t me Alexander if the man suspected him since Maximus IV came right after Miguel''s departure.

    "Let me help you," offered Miguel after a brief silence, causing Alexander''s brows to rise. "I cannot dispel what he had put upon your son and blood. However, I can make them live a normal life."

    Alexander''s eyes slowly went wide, holding his breath at the remarks uttered just now. "You meanбн"

    "The power of the royal family and the King of the maind was of a different caliber than a normal noble vampire. The curse he put upon you is an ancient spell that required a much more powerful and skilled witch to dispel. That is why I can''t truly eliminate it," Miguel exined solemnly, determined to help his friend with this dilemma. "That is why I am going to put a curse on them once again."

    "What?"

    "Do you trust me?" Miguel''s expression turned hard, looking directly into the king''s eyes.

    Alexander gulped, hearing it echo in his ear. His voice was stuck in his throat, a little hesitant to agree with his proposal.

    "Will this curse make them live a normal life?" he asked with a shaking voice.

    "Yes."

    "What''s the catch?" his follow-up question immediately flew out of his mouth. "Curses weren''t done without a sacrifice, if I am correct. There must be something in return."

    "None."

    "What?"

    "You are correct. Curses and spells required a certain sacrifice. Each one had its own uses and downsides. However, I''ll make sure they will not pay the price for it," Miguel reassured. "It is my fault that this misfortune struck your family. Thus, I ought to pay the full price of it."

    "Count."

    "Please." Miguel bowed, determined topensate this good man for the sin Miguel didn''tmit. "Allow me to helpбн my friend."

    Deep lines appeared on Alexander''s forehead, eyes fixed on the bowing of Miguel. Thetter''s determination emanated strongly, making the king''s breath hitch.

    "Will you not tell me what you are nning to do?" the king asked while Miguel straightened his back. "Will you not detail what is the price you must pay?"

    A subtle smile slowly turned up on his face as he answered, "It''s nothing serious. At least, for me, who was from the line of the Rothschild, one of the founding families of the maind."

    Silence descended on their shoulders as the two of them gazed at each other. In the end, Miguel didn''t tell the consequences of helping his dearest friend. Not that it mattered. Miguel was certain the effects of the spell he would do was something he could fight.

    Thus, when nighttime fell, Miguel put a spell on the king and his hideous son, Davien.

    The ceremony was simple. The king and his son justy down until they had fallen asleep while Miguel inked his own blood on their bodies. His lips moved, chanting the only ancient spell he knew at that time.

    "Your life is mine to bearбн I offer my blood of protectionбн" his breathing grew heavier and slower while the veins all across his body and face protruded angrily. "So long as I am alive, you will carry my appearance while I hold your life."

    As his eyes shut closed, dark shrouds enveloped the king and the prince. The prince''s hideous face slowly transitioned into a person''s face until he looked like a young version of Miguel. Meanwhile, within the king''s body, the dark shroud suppressed the initial curse within him.

    When Miguel opened his eyes, he was already catching up to his breathing. He coughed, hunching in until his palmsnded on the edge of the bed.

    "This is the best I could do," he uttered under his breath, snapping his eyes up at the two people sleeping soundlessly on the bed. "The curse he ced upon you meant to kill this kingdom slowly. But for as long as I am alive, none of your children will suffer just like what you had feared. Instead, they will be loved and epted in one sight."

    Miguel simply put a permanent illusion on the royal family. It was like a curtain, a mask. In the eyes of the caster, the prince still looked the same. However, from the eyes of others бк especially from weaker species who were weaker than Miguel бк Davien appeared exceptionally beautiful.

 Chapter 895 That Was His True Goal

    ?

    When the king, Alexander, woke up, Miguel was gone. He had slept the entire night, which was the longest sleep he had had for years. But his attention didn''tst on Miguel''s disappearance as the boy beside him carried a face of a human.

    Alexander thought it was Miguel at first sight because the child looked exactly like him. A child''s version. If not for the birthmark on his nape, the king wouldn''t recognize his own son.

    His surprise and confusion at the shocking day he woke up to be calmed down by a note Miguel left.

    [ I didn''t mean to lend my face to your son. Take it as the little consequence of the spell. Your son and your future children will live a normal life. ]

    There was no detail if Miguel would evere back or why he left so suddenly. However, the king''s gratitude to himsted until hisst breath.

    The very next day, the king announced his son''s first public appearance. Everyone was excited. The Queen was in disbelief upon seeing her son, but happiness quickly overwhelmed her confusion.

    Atst, the crown prince''s curse was lifted.

    That was what the queen thought. That was what the king said, after all.

    The crown prince''s first public appearance captured the hearts of their people. He was beautiful like a cherub. Although he didn''t quite resemble his parents with such unparalleled beauty, his green hair and eyes бк a signature feature of the royal family бк proved Davien was royalty.

    Soon, the terrible rumors that rose from the royal family''s reluctance to show the prince died down. The prince lived a life loved by his people; his intelligence, strength in battle, and charisma made him the perfect crown prince.

    Years passed and the royal family grew bigger; every prince or princess that was born into the family carried undeniable beauty. But the one who stood out the most was Princess Aries Aime Heathcliffe.

    They said the day she was born, all flowers in the kingdom bloomed beautifully. Even as a child, everyone already knew she would grow into a fine youngdy. They weren''t wrong.

    At hering-of-age ceremony, Aries was akin to a star. She had the beauty of a goddess who had descended into the mortal world. It wouldn''t be an exaggeration to say many young men fell on their knees upon setting their eyes on her.

    That was whyбн No one found it surprising when the crown prince of the Maganti fell in love with her at first sight. It was also not a surprise the entire Rikhill was furious upon hearing this crown prince wanted to make her concubine.

    And thus, the disaster that befell the kingdom of Rikhill.

    Thend of Rikhill had faced its own ups and downs. Unbeknownst to them, the person who solved the forgotten dilemma of the royal family also had struggles of his own.

    As a consequence of lending a part of himself to the Heathcliffe royal family, Miguel experienced things he shouldn''t have. He felt every deep emotion Davien felt. His mind was torn until the young boy''s memories became a part of his own.

    On top of his personal struggle, Miguel had topete with Maximus IV. After all, the man showed no reservation as soon as Miguel returned to the Maind.

    At that time, Maximus IV was already proimed as the crown prince. The king had also fallen ill and because of his deteriorating health; he wasn''t as active as he used to be in the royal court.

    In other words, Maximus IV took over the royal court.

    Maximus IV obviously didn''t favor Miguel. Even if he did, Miguel could never lower his guard since he already knew the prince''s true colors. However, it was as though Maximus IV had everything under control.

    He would make his move every time Miguel was suffering from the spell he put upon the Heathcliffe family and himself. This went on for many years until Miguel realized he stepped into Maximus IV''s trap.

    The spell Maximus IV cast on the royal family in the kingdom of Rikhill was not to punish Alexander. It was because he knew Miguel was foolish, and would do anything to put a patch on the problem.

    Therefore, Miguel had no other choice but to erase that part of his memory. He asked Giselle for help, telling her to lock away the memories he had about Alexander but keep his connection with them.

    Miguel begged her; something he wouldn''t do, but he did.

    Hence, Giselle fulfilled his wish. She locked away Miguel''s treasured memories about the outside world to focus on his patient battle against Maximus IV.

    The battle between Maximus IV and Miguel was still ongoing even when Maximus IV died.

    ******

    [ PRESENT TIME ]

    A tear rolled down Aries''s unblinking eyes after having the privilege of learning about that time in Rikhill. She had seen everything thanks to Miguel, who showed her the truth behind his face.

    ''I''mбн wrong,'' she thought, rendered speechless at this revtion. It was not Miguel who borrowed Davien''s face, nor was it an illusion they looked alike.

    The truth was far from all the theories she had all this time. Miguel lent a part of him so they could live a normal life, not knowing it was a part of Maximus IV''s ns.

    "Iбн we are not your enemy, Your Majesty." Miguel broke the prolonged silence in the great hall with an affectionate voice. "Do you now understand the reason we are fighting?"

    Her lower lip quivered. Not only did she see the past of her mothend, but she had also seen Miguel''s struggles and discoveries.

    Now shepletely understood why they were all in this situation. It was all part of Maximus''s ns. The curse in Rikhill, the reason Aries was chosen as Maleficent''s holder, and the involvement of the Grimsbanne n.

    "Maximus IV loathed the maind and everyone in it with intense passion," Miguel continued, just in case she still doubted the truth. "Therefore, he provoked the Grimsbanne to end thisnd once and for all. That was his goal from the beginning."

 Chapter 896 It Was The Little Things That Hurt

    ?

    "Maximus IV loathed the maind and everyone in it with intense passion. Therefore, he provoked the Grimsbanne to end thisnd once and for all. That was his goal from the beginning."

    Maximus IV had yed all of them. He had yed a song and everyone danced to his tune. It all started with Miguel and Alexander''s friendship to Aries''s captivity until now when she was the current Queen of thend of vampires.

    Everything was all part of Maximus IV''s ns.

    Aries wouldn''t be surprised if Maximus IV''s death was nned. Provoking the Grimsbanne n, specifically Abel, was guaranteed death. If she would guess based on Maximus IV''s personality, it wasn''t farfetched.

    If Maximus IV was going to die, he would surely choose whose hands he would die. Just who was the only person whose strength and existence Maximus IV acknowledge and respected?

    Who else? Abel Grimsbanne.

    Maximusбн That obsessive freak.

    "We have no other choice but to fight a patient fight." Miguel let out a deep exhale. "We couldn''t stop thete king and even if we tried, it was futile. Maleficent''s core epted you as its holder and Abel Grimsbanne returned to thisnd."

    "You could''ve stopped and conceded when he died." Her voice was shaky, not allowing the past to blur her judgment. "When Maximus died, you could''vee forth and chased us away. If only you had done that, we would''ve already left you all alone."

    "If only it''s that simple." This time, Giselle broke her silence. Miguel, who was standing before Aries, stepped aside to clear the queen''s view and see Giselle. "Maximus already provoked the Grimsbanne. No amount of words would change turn things around."

    Aries balled her hand into a tight fist upon hearing Giselle''s answer. How shallow and prideful. Maximus IV was to me, sure. However, his death should''ve stopped everything. Yet, the Raven continued while iming their innocence.

    Did they think Aries was born yesterday?

    "Moreover, Abel Grimsbanne will not allow the goal of this council to seed, nor the council will allow others to stop our purpose to protect thisnd." Giselle''s expression turned cold and solemn, keeping her gaze locked with Aries. "Maximus IV found the perfect storage for Maleficent''s core, after all."

    Aries''s eyes slowly went wide upon hearing Giselle''sst remarks. There was no exnation needed as she already grasped the entire picture.

    The council''s goal was to get a hold of Maleficent''s power. It didn''t matter whose hands this core had fallen into; their action would be the same. There might be changes in their approach, though.

    Aries didn''t know why Maximus IV chose her. Probably, he had no choice, or perhaps, it could be because of the curse in her. Aries just seemed to be the perfect person to take hold of this power temporarily.

    Maximus IV''s n probably was a temporary fix. However, something must have happened along the lines that he was left with no choice but to improvise. By that, it meant manipting Aries''s fate by taking advantage of the world summit бк the gathering of kings all over the world бк so Aries crossed paths with Abel.

    Did Maximus IV know Aries and Abel would fall in love? Or did he simply hope Abel would eventually find out about Maleficent''s power within her? It could also be Maximus IV knew Abel so much and was certain thetter wouldn''t harm her. Either way, whatever reason Maximus IV had, Aries might not know. Not that she was dying for an exnation.

    Maximus IV yed her for whatever reason that wouldn''t justify his wicked action.

    ''I didn''t even knowбн what my brother looks like,'' came a thought, filling her heart with unimaginable rage and bitterness. ''I don''t even know if Iбн had ever seen what I truly look like.''

    It was the little things that hurt her the most. She felt like her life was nothing but a big joke. Because of a curse, Aries and her siblings had to borrow a person''s face and genes to live normally. She knew Miguel had done so out of the goodness of his heart, but this wasn''t enough to appease the pain in her heart.

    "Now that you had heard us, will you fight alongside us?" Miguel broke the prolonged silence in the great hall.

    Aries shifted her eyes back to him, but the sight of him only fueled the dismay in her heart. "Do I have the freedom to refuse?"

    "Aime бк"

    "Don''t you dare!" her voice thundered shakily with her eyes covered with a thinyer of tears. "... call me by that name, Miguel Rothschild. You might''ve lent your face to my brother, but you are not Davien."

    Her fist trembled as she ground her teeth. "We might''ve lived a normal life because of your help. However, my gratitude doesn''t extend to the fact I am now standing here, before this council, who was asking me to join hands with them to kill my family."

    "Power? Authority? Control?" Ariesughed mockingly. "You are swearing to give me all the things I don''t need in exchange for what matters to me. I am not thankful, even one bit, of this benevolence this council is sparing me."

    "I am here because you failed to stop Maximus IV." Aries took a deliberate pause, eyes flickering with anger and determination. She had her eyes locked on Miguel and then on Giselle. "If you truly want to gain control over Maleficent''s power, then try your hardest, because I will not willingly hand it over to you."

    Thest gentleness stered on Miguel''s face slowly disappeared. Giselle''s stoic expression didn''t change, as if she already expected Aries''s reaction. Meanwhile, the rest of the Raven nodded in understanding.

    If talking to Aries would make her side with them, then that would be good. However, they didn''t hope she would take their side through such a peaceful method.

    "I see." Miguel lowered his eyes as he exhaled. When he lifted his eyes back to the queen once again, coldness dominated his face. "So that is your decision, Your Majesty."

    He paused with his lips pressed into a thin, hard line. "I thought if I talk to you and showed you our side of the story, you will eventually understand. But s, I underestimated how Abel Grimsbanne brainwashed you. Do not worry. When this is all over, you will understand my heart."

 Chapter 897 The Crippling Guilt

    ?

    "I thought if I talk to you and show you our side of the story, you will eventually understand. But s, I underestimated how Abel Grimsbanne brainwashed you. Do not worry. When this is all over, you will understand my heart."

    Ayer of frost coated Miguel''s eyes, far different from the warmth he had shown Aries since the beginning. He asked the council for a chance to change her mind. For him, having Aries on their side of her own volition was better than forcing her. But s, the Grimsbanne''s influence on her was deeper and stronger than he expected.

    "You might say we are not siblings. However, a part of Davien lives in me and a part of me died when he perished," came out a cold voice. "I understand your reluctance. We have time to put the broken pieces of this family together. I will put good faith in the trust and love we built through the years."

    "You!" Aries was overwhelmed with anger at his sickening remarks.

    "As a big brother, I will have to extend my understanding since I cannot me you for going astray," he continued, ignoring the anger zing in her eyes. "You are still young. I can still discipline you."

    Miguel turned his head in Suzanne''s direction and without a shred of sympathy, he ordered, "Get rid of her."

    "Miguel!!" Aries roared, taking a step forward, but to no avail. Her body was frozen on the spot, unable to move from where she was standing. When she raised her head while grinding her teeth, all she saw were some members of the Raven chanting quietly.

    "Is this part of the coven?!" she yelled, having no means to retaliate but scream her lungs out. "I am the Queen of thisnd no matter how many times you flip the truth! I have the right to havepany throughout this gathering! How dare you, in front of me, y my people?!"

    "You are indeed the Queen and have the right to be apanied by someone Your Majesty picked." Miguel slowly set his eyes back on her before a sinister smile peeked on his countenance. "However, we, the Raven, were also free to execute someone on the spot if we proved your life is in danger."

    "That woman bore ill-intention and malice to Your Majesty." He then pointed in Suzanne''s direction. "You are highly emotional right now, Your Majesty. And we fully understand your attachment to yourdy-in-waiting. Feelings and emotions blur one''s judgment. Thus, this council exists. We are doing this to you and soon, I am certain, you will understand our decision."

    Hearing Miguel''s twisted remarks, Suzanne''s breath hitched. She was still on the ground with a person on her back, her face facing the queen''s direction.

    "Youбн" she muttered through her gritted teeth, tasting the tang of iron in her mouth. She sped the concrete upon realizing how she had fallen into Miguel''s trap.

    Miguel took advantage of Suzanne''s weakness and made her confess to the crimes she didn''tmit. He purposely brought forth how he had stopped the witches Suzanne ced across the maind to rattle her. Now, using the initial argument, Miguel was sentencing her to death.

    ''I failedбн'' Suzanne clenched her teeth tighter until her gums bled. ''I let him affect me and I lost myposure.''

    Tears overflowed in her eyes, not because she was scared of death. Suzanne died once, only to be brought back to life by Aries. Her life was not hers anymore, but Aries''s.

    That was why she was crying.

    ''I''m sorry, Your Majesty.'' Suzanne expressed her heart, knowing this would be thest time she could. ''I failed you again.''

    "As a member of this coven, I sentence her to death." Following Suzanne''s inner sentiments came Miguel''s order. "Do it quickly so Her Majesty wouldn''t need to watch her suffer."

    "Yes, my lord!" The person restraining Suzanne bowed before wielding the ax on his back.

    "Miguel! Stop this right now!" Aries yelled and yelled, growing more aggressive each time. "Stop this right now! Miguel!!"

    No matter how loud Aries yelled and how much she struggled to move from her spot was futile. Miguel didn''t listen to her, and only stared at her coldly.

    "Hurting you is not my n, Aime," whispered Miguel, almost making her choke. "After all, I promised to protect you, always. Back then, I couldn''t agree with your ridiculous idea of marriage. But if marriage will save you this time, I don''t see the problem why I shouldn''t."

    Aries froze, twisting her neck to look back at Miguel like a robot. Her eyes were wide open, rendered speechless by his remarks.

    It was true she used to say she would marry her brother when they were children. Even when they grew up, Aries proposed marriage for personal reasons. Hearing Miguel utter those words that only Aries and Davien knew somehow made her stomach turn in disgust.

    Aries and Miguel stared at each other wordlessly. His expression somehow reminded her of Joaquin. Joaquin might''ve wanted her for pleasure, but the way Miguel looked at her now wasn''t any better. Although his reasons might be far from lust, it was just as sickening. Worst, even.

    "You left me with no choice, Your Majesty." His eyelids drooped, but he was unable to conceal the dangers in them. "We failed to protect Rikhill back then. I won''t let that happen in thisnd again."

    The glint of the ax''s de shed in the corner of her eyes. She could see the person raise his ax while sitting on top of Suzanne''s back.

    Aries held her breath as hopelessness swirled in her chest. "Youбн" her voice was shaking, but her eyes didn''t shed a single tear.

    "бн are not any better than Joaquin. You are the reason Rikhill fell, not me, not Joaquin. Therefore, your guilt drives you crazy. Your goal isn''t to save thisnd or me, but to save yourself from the crippling guilt Davien felt before his death."

    A low manicughter slipped past her lips. "I understand everything now, Miguel Rothschild."

    Somehow, her remarks made Miguel freeze. And before he could react, the executioner swung his ax straight to Suzanne''s nape.

 Chapter 898 The Queens Invited Guest

    ?

    "I understand everything now, Miguel Rothschild."

    Suzanne held her breath as she felt Death caress all parts of her soul. She shut her eyes upon sensing the sharp de of the ax swinging down straight to her nape.

    CLANG!

    "Haбн" Suzanne shut her eyes tightly as she anticipated the end of her life. However, the pain didn''t arrive. When she mustered the courage to open her one eye, all she saw were pieces of the broken ax on the floor.

    "My, my. Is this what truly happens in the coven?" suddenly, a seductive voice of a woman resonated in the quiet great hall. "I thought it will be more exciting and interesting. What a letdown."

    Everyone turned to the woman''s voice, only to see the man on top of Suzanne''s back flying in a certain direction. The executioner instantly crashed into the wall, creating a small thick fog in a small area.

    "What do you think you''re doing, Marse Grimsbanne?!" someone in the Raven shouted while Marse, who was wearing the same robe as them, pulled her hood down.

    ''Marse?'' Suzanne was still holding her breath, looking back at the person who stopped her execution. Marse stepped over Suzanne and then stood a few steps from Suzanne, almost blocking Suzanne''s view of the council.

    "What am I doing?" Marse chuckled, caressing her jawline with the back of her fingers. "I''m adding more fun to this boring coven. It''s unfair if it''s only you who is having fun, you know?"

    "This wenchбн"

    "Does she think a coven is a joke? This is not a ce for fun!"

    Marse shrugged indifferently, ignoring theints she was getting from the council. She slowly moved her gaze in Aries''s direction, smiling.

    "It seems we always see each other in these types of situations, Ram," remarked Marse, assessing Aries from head to toe. "You are already the queen, and yet, you still allow others to put you in such a pathetic state. Myбн what a pathetic student I have."

    Ariesughed weakly. "I''m sorry for disappointing you, Master."

    "Nevermind. The pretty Marse is already here." Marse reeked with confidence, which annoyed the council even more. "Miguel Rothschildбн and Giselle. Poor, pitiful Giselle. You''re already blind and now a failure. What a sad life."

    Miguel and Giselle''s expressions turned hard while Marse was dawdling with her insults. Miguel kept his eyes on Aries, watching thetter look back at him before smirking.

    "Marse," he called under his breath. "What do you think you''re doing?"

    "Isn''t it obvious? I thought you were smart." Marse blinked. "I''m here because you promised me fun! What''s the fun in killing this pitiful handmaiden?"

    "Marse, have you decided to betray us in the end?" Giselle kept herposure, knowing exactly where Marse was standing.

    "Betray you?" Marse burst out inughter. "Betrayal onlyes from alliance and friendship. Our rtionship was neither. I hung out with you guys because you promised to help me resolve my dilemma. That was two years ago. Do you know how long that is?"

    Marse lifted her chin while her eyelids drooped. "Do you think my patience is that long? I side with anyone who can help me. I don''t think you are the people who can do that."

    "Did she promise you she will resolve the matter?" asked Giselle, referring to Aries.

    "Well." Marse shrugged. "She is the holder of Maleficent, after all. If there is anyone powerful enough to separate two souls, that would be Maleficent."

    "She isn''t Maleficent."

    "She isn''t, but she''s the holder of Maleficent." Marse cocked her head to the side. "Even if you got a hold of that power, just how long will that take for you to tame it? Even the most powerful witch in the maind needed time to tame Maleficent and the twelve witches."

    "Moreoverбн" Marse nced over her shoulder. "... this woman, Suzanne, was it? She''s mine. I killed her once, but she''s still alive. Myбн Marse sure is sloppy; she didn''t get the job done. In other words, this woman''s life is still in my hands. Her life and deathбн is in my hands. No one else steals my prey."

    She faced the council again and pointed at them. "I can go on with the long list of why you lowly vampires cannot stand on the same ground as Her Majesty Marse. I am kind enough to stick around, but you took my mercy for granted."

    "Is this your n?" Miguel, who didn''t cast Marse a look, asked Aries.

    Aries sported a subtle smile. "Did you really think you''ll find my witches if I don''t want you to find them? Miguel, even if you used Davien''s memories of me, I am no longer that Aries Aime Heathcliffe. That woman is dead a long time ago."

    "My name now is Aries Aime Grimsbanne," she continued while all the softness and hopelessness she carried moments ago disappeared without a trace.

    "Aries!!!" Miguel''s voice thundered, but Aries was unfazed as she continued her remarks.

    "If I am going down, I''ll make sure to drag everyone with me." Her eyes grew icy, staring at Miguel straight in his eyes. "I told you, Miguel. You can try as much as you can, but I will not stop. That was not a joke. After all, I am fighting to surviveбн just like how I always did since Davien''s passing."

    Miguel balled his hands into a tight fist while his jaw tightened. His eyes slid to the corner where Marse was. Continuing the coven was easy since Aries was already restrained; the queen had no other means to do anything. However, Marse was here.

    It was obvious Marse turned her back on them. This problematic psycho would do anything to sabotage them.

    "Giselle," Miguel called under his breath. "I''ll handle that woman from the Grimsbanne. Continue the coven."

    "I''m afraid we cannot do that anymore." Deep lines appeared between Miguel''s brows at Giselle''s remarks, turning his head in his direction, only to notice the man standing behind Giselle.

    The man was also wearing their robes, but when he pulled his hood down, his face was unfamiliar. He was not a part of this council.

    "They said blind people had stronger other senses," said the man, smiling from ear to ear until his eyes were squinting. "I guess it wasn''t a lie."

    The man''s eyes slowly cracked open as he shifted his focus to the queen. "I was in tears watching your act, my Queen. Can''t you see there''s still tears in the corner of my eyes?"

    "Stop that nonsense, Fabian." Aries chuckled, watching Miguel look back at her with surprise dominating his face upon hearing the man''s voice. "It wasn''t an act. I truly felt sad about the Count''s story. It was genuine."

 Chapter 899 You Already Have A Disability

    ?

    "Stop that nonsense, Fabian. It wasn''t an act. I truly felt sad about the Count''s story. It was genuine."

    Suzanne held her breath when she heard the name of the man Aries called. Her eyes were wide, just as surprised as the rest of the council. She moved her eyes at Marse, who was standing steps from her, and then at the man standing behind Giselle.

    Fabian and Marse.

    Since when did they get into this ce? From their clothing, Suzanne could tell they had infiltrated the council before they came in. It wasn''t surprising that those two managed to not get caught until now. After all, Marse was a Grimsbanne.

    Two years ago, Marse nearly seeded in taking Abel and Maximus IV''s life. She was also the person who killed Suzanne while thetter stalled time for Aries. In other words, Marse''s capabilities and skills were undeniably exceptional. The only con was that Marse might be an ally now, but no one knew when she would turn her back on them.

    Fabian, on the other hand, worked with Aries for the past two years. Surviving the harsh royal pce of the maind was already a skill. Although Fabian mostly received direct orders from Aries, Suzanne was well aware of the man''s wicked nature. After all, Maximus IV ordered his death countless times, but each time, he would return with the head of those who attempted to y him.

    One might assume Maximus IV was simply being kind to the "queen''s lover." However, it wasn''t that thete king was lenient. It was just that Fabian was untouchable, even without the queen''s protection.

    Having these two in the great hall where the coven was slightly put Suzanne''s heart at ease.

    ''I seeбн'' Suzanne''s body rxed, moving her eyes to Aries. ''... our ns aren''t just Her Majesty''s ns. I''m relieved she had foreseen these events.''

    If it was just Suzanne, she was certain she couldn''t do anything to protect Aries. But with Fabian, who would never turn his back on Aries because of his unbreakable connection with the queen, and Marse, Suzanne was certain the queen would be safe.

    ''Stillбн I cannot becent.'' Even though Suzanne''s body rxed, she only did so to regain her energy in case the council flip the table. ''Our enemies are the council of the Maind. Each member of this council came from a powerful n. Even if that butler Fabian and Marse were capable fighters, against such numbers of powerful vampires, they would still have a hard time.''

    "Hahaбн" Miguelughed under his breath, waving his hand dismissively as a sign for the council to stay on standby. "How prudent. Did you think taking the chief council hostage will stop us?"

    "Hmm, no, of course not." Fabian shook his head, raising both his hands on either side of him. "I''m unarmed. I''m not taking her hostage."

    Miguel caught the glint on the ring on Fabian''s finger. "I''m certain that skull ring is a weapon."

    "Hehe. You got me, but I''m still taking no one hostage." Fabian dropped his hand. "I''m simply here because my Queen needs moral support. I don''t need to lift a finger to stop you, after all. Well, maybe to make sure she steps out of here in one piece. I can''t let her die бк she holds my heart, as you already know."

    "What do you mean by that?" Miguel frowned, but the answer came from Giselle.

    "He means he doesn''t need to fight unless it was necessary."

    Fabian smiled. "Correct." He peeked at Giselle''s side profile. "You''re quite bright, even though you''re blind."

    "Fabian, there''s no difference between you and that woman. You always smile that I rarely see your eyes," Marse casually chimed in before she suddenly pondered. "Should I poke my eyes as well? So far, those I met with disabilities were all unique and exceptional."

    "You already have a disability." Fabian tapped his temple. "In here."

    Marseughed before a murderous aura exuded on her back. "Do you want to have a round now, Fabian? I can let Marse out for you."

    "Should we?" Fabian smirked, not backing down as if this was the right time to test his skills.

    "Hahaбн hahбн hahбн" Miguel let out a series of chillingughter. His head was hanging low. Fabian and Marse''s brows rose, shifting their attention to the Count''s direction. "How insulting."

    Miguel slowly raised his head, only to meet Aries''s eyes. "Is this how you truly want this, Aime?"

    "I didn''t make the decision, Miguel." Aries shook her head mildly while still keeping her eyes locked on him. "What I am doing is a retaliation, a reaction. It is to save myself from your twisted beliefs. I''ve mentioned it before. Youбн should''ve left us alone when Maximus IV died. If only you did, you wouldn''t have to face the consequences бк"

    Aries suddenly fell to her knees as if a bouldernded on her shoulder. Her eyes went wide, keeping her hands on the floor so she wouldn''tpletely fall on her stomach.

    "Youбн are surely being too defiant, Aime." There was no trace of remorse or pity in his eyes. "I''ll make you relearn how to treat your big brother properly."

    "Everyone, deal with those two while Giselle and I will continue with the ceremony," he added without a moment of pause. As soon as those words rolled out of his tongue, multiple people surrounded Fabian and Marse.

    Fabian''s brows rose, looking over his shoulder. Marse only blinked innocently before breaking out inughter, covering her lips with the back of her hand.

    "Fabian, how about a race?" remarked Marse, counting the people who were surrounding her. "The person who finished quickly wins бк"

    Marse didn''t finish her sentence as she leaped to a distance to avoid an attack. None of the people who surrounded her attacked her, but the spot she previously stood on now has a hollow. Her smile was instantly reced with a frown, casting Giselle a re.

    "No fair!"ined Marse. "Why are you attacking me?!"

    "So dumb. Isn''t that obvious? That is because you are her enemy бк" This time, Fabian had to jump several steps back from Giselle. His smirk remained, seeing the strand of his hair from the spot he previously stood.

    "What a dangerous ability," Fabian expressed. "If I was a secondter, I was certain I was cut in half already."

 Chapter 900 Brother VS Brother

    ?

    Giselle didn''t move a finger, but she was able to force Fabian and Marse to take a step back. Surely, she deserved her spot in the council.

    "Lord Miguel." Her tone was as quiet and calm as ever. Even though her eyes were shut, Aries could feel the woman''s gaze on her. "Deploy your men around the Royal Pce."

    Miguel frowned. "I refuse. The ceremony is our top priority right now."

    "I''m afraid I have to do the ceremony all alone." Giselle paused, taking a deep breath.

    Deep lines appeared between Miguel''s forehead upon sensing something agile was approaching the great hall. Miguel instinctively wielded his sword.

    Within a second time frame, the window shattered as a person catapulted into it. Everything happened so fast that the only thing everyone saw was when two swords shed against each other.

    CLANG!!

    The des rattled against each other, their pair of eyes shining in crimson red. The side of Miguel''s lips twitched, gazing at the person across the de.

    "Vandran," he breathed out, pushing the sword away, but in turn, Miguel slid several meters back. "Hahбн"

    Miguelughed monotonously, watching Dexter stand before Aries. Thetter had his back in front of Aries.

    "Lord Miguel Rothschild. We met again." Dexter assessed the man from head to toe. "Though I sensed something different from you."

    He didn''t dwell on it though as he looked back at Aries. His eyes instantly softened the moment his eyes fell on the chains binding her.

    "Are you alright, Dani?" he asked worriedly, reaching for the metal bands around her wrist only to stop before he could touch them. His face turned sour, clenching his hand.

    "Yes, Brother." Aries smiled warmly. "Although these chains are getting heavier every passing second, I can bear with them."

    "I''ll take them off soon." Dexter looked her straight in the eye while nodding reassuringly. "Can you wait until then, Dani?"

    Before Aries could respond, Miguel''s burst ofughter echoed across all corners of the great hall. The little bit of warmth on Dexter''s face instantly disappeared, looking over his shoulder.

    "Dani?!" Miguelughed. "Aime, is this the person you call family now? He doesn''t even call you by your real name, but instead, named you after his dead sister."

    Miguel ground his teeth, eyes directly at Aries. "You''re choosing this man over me, your brother?!"

    "You''re not Davien бк"

    "Aries Aime Heathcliffe!" Miguel''s voice thundered. "How have you fallen for you to stoop so low? You, the beloved child of our father and my precious sister, the woman who pledged to serve her people, findfort in recing a dead person''s spot in this lowly man''s heart? Unbelievable!"

    "Did he snap? Can''t he hear himself right now?" mumbled Marse on the side, unable to stop herself from raising a brow at Miguel''s remarks.

    "Your longing for your familyбн I understand why you got satisfied with such a disgraceful setup. However, what I cannot ept is you''re ying along with this fiasco until now!" Miguel continued, totally enraged. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "Miguel." Sensing his growing repugnance and anger, Giselle called. Her call got ignored, though.

    "Aimeбн" Miguel breathed out through his gritted teeth, gazing at Dexter with murderous intent. "Until when will you defy your brother?"

    Dexter snickered. "Now I see clearly what''s different. I knew, at first nce, there was something wrong with you." He faced Miguel and assessed the man from head to toe.

    "That''s why your aura didn''t match your actions," continued Dexter. "It''s akin to a monster suffering from memory loss, fully convinced he was what he thought he was."

    Dexter shook his head. "How disappointing, but at the same time enlightening. This gives me more reason to y you."

    "The feeling is mutual." Miguel sneered, pointing his sword at Dexter. "I now have more reason to y a despicable man like you."

    "Brother," Aries called under her breath, eyes fixed on Miguel. "He''s dangerous."

    "Dani." Dexter chuckled without casting her a look. "Did you think I am here because I don''t know what sort of enemy we have?"

    Aries peeled her eyes from Miguel to Dexter.

    "When you told me about your ns, we both knew our feet were already in our graves. However, more than my will for our victory, my goal is to go have that man''s head," Dexter added. "I cannot allow that man who made you cry for so many nights to live. How can I call myself your big brother if I let that man, who stole your brother''s precious memories, breathe the same air as you?"

    "You dare speak such noble remarks without knowing your ce." Miguel spat out, taking it upon himself that he had to end this man. If not for Dexter, Aries wouldn''t need to second guess.

    For Miguel, Dexter was nothing but a nuisance. Someone whose longing for his sister runs too deep he convinced himself Aries could rece his sister. Even if Aries agreed with such a setup, it was an insult to Miguel.

    Why did Aries need them when he was already here?

    "You couldn''t protect your sister, Danie, and even after she was killed, you served the man who killed her," Miguel insulted, bringing up the painful reality Dexter had to live for many years. "Yet now, you are saying you will have my head? Me? Miguel Rothschild? Hahaha! Surely, lowly monkeys like you are foolish and would never know their ce until it''s time to take yourst breath."

    "Miguel," Giselle called once again, but Miguel was already in his fighting stance.

    "Tonight''s covenбн will be the night of your death and this ce will be your grave." As soon as thest syble rolled out of Miguel''s tongue, he and Dexter disappeared from their vantage point to have a duel.

    Brother versus brother.

    Who would live? Who would die?

    It was a duel that would only end if one of them fell.

    But then, something unexpected happened.

    Just before Miguel and Dexter could sh swords, two figures appeared right between them.

 Chapter 901 Deadlock

    ?

    Miguel and Dexter already had their eyes on each other. They were prepared for a duel, fighting for what they believed. However, just as they disappeared from their vantage point, heading to have a head-to-head battle, both of them suddenly leaped back.

    CLANG!

    Miguel and Dexter didn''t see the two figures that suddenly appeared between them. They only felt the danger the two carried, repelling them to stand away from their way. When Dexter and Miguelnded several steps from their initial vantage point, they could finally focus on the two people that interrupted their battle.

    Dexter furrowed his brows. "Conan?"

    "Leviticus." Miguel frowned as he recognized London and then Conan. "What are you two doing? Interrupting our duel with yours?"

    Conan and London appeared at the same time. Thus, everyone assumed they were already having a round beforeing into the great hall. Little did everyone know, London and Conan might have appeared at the same time. However, they only shed swords now.

    "What do you think you''re doing, Your Highness?" London smiled, ignoring the rattle of his sword against Conan.

    "It should me be asking, London Leviticus. What the hell do you think you''re nning to do?"

    "I wasбн trying to stop Marquess Vandran and Count Miguel, obviously."

    "Stop them by attacking the Marquess?" Conan snickered, ignoring everyone around as his sole focus was on London.

    "I think you got it wrong."

    "I doubt." A glint flickered across Conan''s eyes, using more of his strength to push London back. "How dare you interfere with a man''s battle, huh? Should I teach you proper etiquette? Your House seemed to have missed a lot of sses."

    London chortled. "Your Highness, I am interfering because you and I know he doesn''t stand a chance."

    "Even so." Coldness dominated Conan''s face. "A man had chosen this duel. Whether this may be his grave is his decision. No one had the right to interfere and tarnish a man''s pride."

    "Was it truly about pride, Your Highness?"

    "Of course not. As much as I want the Marquess dead, Her Majesty will hate me. Therefore, I''d rather have her hate the Count for that." Conan smirked, still had his habit of shamelessly publicizing his dislike to the Marquess. "Moreover, it''s better if he chose to die on his own. Lucky me."

    "Just which side is he on?" wondered Marse, cocking her head to the side.

    CLANG!

    London and Conan shoved their swords with equal force and might, resulting in making the two of them fly away. Conan immediately took his stance, wiping his cheek with the back of his first. Meanwhile, London simply flipped his long hair to the side.

    "Miguel. Dueling the Marquess right now isn''t your priority." Taking advantage of the interference, Giselle spoke again. She had her head turned in Miguel''s direction, eyes still closed. "Do not allow your emotions to get the better of you. They already dyed the ceremony enough; we cannot afford to lose more time."

    Miguel hissed but didn''t refute. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "Once we finish, I''ll make sure to have your head." Miguel pointed his sword at Dexter again. "You can run as fast as far away as possible, but I assure you. I''ll chase you to the ends of the world."

    "You don''t have to wait until then since I won''t let you proceed with your ceremony, anyway." Dexter took a step, prepared to stop anyone who would try to continue whatever ceremony they were nning to execute.

    "What an annoying brat." Miguel hissed again, stomping a step forward.

    "I think almost everyone is gathered here!" Marse pped happily. "Now, this is what you call a fun night!"

    "Lord Leviticus, does this mean you''re siding with them?" this time, Fabian also chimed in since the tension in the great hall continuously rose.

    "I side with no one." London pressed his lips into a thin line before shifting his eyes in Conan''s direction. "I am here to stop the unnecessary battle. But it seemed it''ll be hard to exercise my good purpose with someone out here whose eyes were on me. Your Highness, do not tell me you''ve fallen in love with me?"

    "Hey! What nonsense is going on with your head?!" Conan''s face instantly turned red, disgusted at London''s teasing. "What sort of nder are you spewing now, eh?! Aren''t you ashamed?!"

    "Pfft бк but histe Majesty Maximus IV fell for me. Since you two are brothers, there is a high possibility you have the same preference."

    "Shut up!!!" Conan gasped, almost curling his fingers the more he listened to London''s ridiculous hypothesis. "Take that back, you pervert!"

    Conan threw a huge fit, his loud voice echoing so loud Marse couldn''t help but tug her earlobes. It was obvious London was simply teasing him, but Conan''s nose was ring.

    "Is he dumb or what?" Marse couldn''t help but scrunch her nose, but not surprised. She spent a few months in the Haimirich Empire and had somehow grown used to the people there.

    Conan was just being Conan.

    Marse breathed out, casually scanning her surrounding. From Aries''s side were Dexter, Conan, Fabian, and her, obviously. Even though each of them was a capable fighter, their opponents were not to be underestimated.

    "As much as I hate to admit it," she murmured, shifting her eyes to their current enemies.

    Aside from the other members of the Raven, the key yers from the opposing party were Miguel and Giselle. Those two were powerful enough to take two opponents each at the same time. With London Leviticus on their side, their forces brought their power to a whole new level.

    ''Ram cannot move right now and that maid over there will just get in the way.''Marse pressed her lips into a thin line, thinking of strategic ways for how this battle would proceed. ''If their priority is to continue this so-called ceremony, then that means Giselle wouldn''t fight just yet. That will give us an advantage.''

    The air was still as if everyone, just like Marse, were weighing the pros and cons once a battle broke. Each side didn''t lower their guards, admitting the capabilities of their opponents and knowing this would be a stalemate even before anything could start.

    "Giselle." After a prolonged silence, Aries spoke calmly. "You know full well that time is not in your favor."

    Her lips curled up into a smirk. "Right now, the people in here were in equal match. But do not forgetбн that man has yet arrived."

 Chapter 902 The Power Of The Chief Leader

    ?

    "Right now, the people in here were in equal match. But do not forgetбн that man has yet arrived."

    Giselle''s already still aura slowly turned chilly. That was right. That particr man has yet to arrive and thus, Giselle had been stopping Miguel from straying away from their priority. Once Abel came into this ce, just like everybody else, it could be impossible for them to start.

    The situation wouldn''t be in their favor anymore.

    "Thank you, Your Majesty," said Giselle coldly. "For reminding everyone of our purpose."

    Aries narrowed her eyes as Giselle suddenly raised her hands. As soon as Giselle made a move, everyone in the great hall vanished from their vantage point. The only people who didn''t move from their spots were Aries, Suzanne, and Gise.

    CLANG!

    "Haha! If you already set your eyes on me, then don''t you dare look away."

    Some members of the Raven who previously surrounded Marse tried to go back to their formation. However, the first person who crossed the line Marse drew with her feet was now within her grip, beaten.

    Thud.

    Marse held the member''s head with one hand, letting him go and hended with a thud. No one had seen what she did, but they could sense utter dangering from her.

    "See this line?" she tapped her feet, making the rest nce at the marbled floor. "This is as far as you can go. Cross it and you''ll see what happens."

    "Marse Grimsbanneбн" someone from the group called in a warning tone. "... how dare you betray us? After protecting you from your own family, you''d now turn your back to help the family who wanted to kill you."

    "Correction. I am not helping the Grimsbanne. They could all die for all I care. Who I am helping is Her Majesty." Marse sported a friendly smile. "It''s just business, nothing personal. So, don''t take it to heart. Don''t me me for your ipetence. After all, you could''ve prevented my participation for tonight if you did as promised, Giselle."

    Marse nced over her shoulder and smirked. "But since you didn''t, I am one of your problems now."

    "London Leviticus, didn''t you say you side with no one?" Meanwhile, Conan shed swords with London once again near Aries. "I can understand the first time you stopped my sword, but this time, it''s clear you had sided with the Raven."

    "I''m sorry to disappoint, Your Highness. As much as I hate it, thisnd needed the Raven''s protection. Though I do not condone their tonight''s purpose, I cannot allow their deaths as well." London smiled. "You might not understand my heart since you left thisnd without looking back at least once."

    "Do not make meugh. I can sense from your sword your thirst for blood."

    "Well, you can say I still hold a grudge against you as well. Even though I''ve stayed within the borders of the Maind, I will never ept how you bullied my precious cousin." The sword between them rattled as the two tested their strength. "My poor cousin Isaiah had to deal with you on a daily basis."<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    The vein on the side of Conan''s cheek protruded, pissed at London''s remarks.

    "So, this is personal, huh?" shouted Conan, and his de glided against the other sword, causing sparks to fly.

    In a blink of an eye, London and Conan leaped back, only tounch forth to exchange blows. They were equally fast and powerful, appearing and disappearing every other second. The only indicator they were fighting was the sound of metals shing and the sparks they would produce every time their weapons make contact.

    As London and Conan engaged in battle, and Marse stayed on the side to keep a few members where they were, another brewing tension was building in another area of the great hall.

    Giselle''s slight movement set off everyone to move with intent. One of those people was Fabian and Dexter. London stopped Conan from attacking Giselle, while Marse stopped some members of the Raven from helping Giselle.

    The only person who was close enough to Giselle was Fabian.

    "I must admit, I found some inkling in you. It is a shame we stand on different sides, Chief Leader." Fabian stood a step behind Giselle with the tip of his index an inch away from the side of Giselle''s neck. "And thank you, Marquess. I feel like I should now call you brother-inw."

    "Shut up." Dexter ground his teeth, blocking Miguel''s sword that was directly at Fabian. Now Dexter was standing beside Fabian and Giselle, blocking the des that could''ve split this butler in half.

    "Myбн" Fabian smiled, ncing over his shoulder. "... what a problematic situation we have here."

    Aside from Miguel, some members of the Raven surrounded them. They were the ones who initially surrounded Fabian before Dexter, Conan, and London joined the party.

    Despite the danger that was only an inch away from her, Giselle kept her face in Aries''s direction. Thetter was scanning the great hall, acknowledging that no one could make a move properly. Be it the Raven or them, unless the other party would cease to exist.

    "Your Majesty." Aries snapped her eyes back to Giselle. "Are you happy with how this unfolded?"

    "No one wants their loved ones to be in danger." Aries kept calm and collected, as if the invisible weight around her hands and feet weren''t getting heavier. "I am not speaking just for me, but to everyone in this ce for me."

    "Correction. You are not my loved one, Ram." Marse couldn''t help butment; she was the only one who got the time to idle as the rest were busy exchanging blows. "But well, Giselle wouldn''t understand бк"

    Marse suddenly fell to her knees. Her handnded on the floor on instinct, wide-eyed. Cracks appeared on the surface she was standing on, and after a second, the ground gave in, creating a massive hollow.

    ''Heavyбн''Marse ground her teeth while her face twitched. She raised her head with great difficulty, fighting the sudden weight on her. "Hah. I see. So this is your ability, huh?"

 Chapter 903 Anointed Guardian

    ?

    Marse let out another wave of abruptughs, only for the hollow she was in to expand.

    ''Damn it!'' she mentally cursed, clenching her teeth. The invisible weight on her shoulders felt twice heavier, immobilizing her. Marse could barely carry the weight while on her knees and hands on the broken surface.

    The members, who were initially frightened by Marse, slowly moved their dted eyes at Giselle. Seeing that Giselle was free from Fabian as thetter had to avoid Dexter and Miguel, Giselle could finally help them out.

    "You are truly amazing, Marse," Giselle mused, turning her head in Marse''s direction. "If you were someone else, you would''ve gotten crushed."

    "Damn, you." Marse spat out as her eyes zed angrily.

    Giselle didn''t pay her more attention. Conan, Fabian, and Dexter were already being dealt with. Marse was the most troublesome of all. Thus, Giselle had to extend her power to at least restrain this crazy woman in the Grimsbanne.

    "Hey! This is unfair!" Marse yelled when Giselle faced Aries once again. "Why am I the only one you''re targeting?! This is bullying! Fabian, help me out!"

    "I apologize, Marse. But as you can seeбн I''ll be a little busy soon." Fabian opened his squinting eyes at the person who ended up being his opponent. "Hello there, Count. Should I address you as my brother-inw as well?"

    Currently, Miguel stood several steps before Fabian. Just now, Miguel and Dexter were going head-to-head with each other. But all of a sudden, when Marse fell, Dexter broke away from the fight. Everything happened so fast, only to realize Dexter and Fabian wordlessly switched.

    Now, Dexter had repelled the numerous Raven attacking Fabian from behind while Fabian simply re at Miguel for the count to leap away.

    "Finally, a worthy opponent." Miguel sneered, recalling how all the nerves in his body told him to retreat just before he could attack Fabian. Fabian didn''t even wield his weapon, but Miguel was certain if he pursued the careless attack, he could''ve lost a limb. Worse, his life.

    "I heard you are a part holder of Maleficent," said Miguel, striking a brief conversation with the man who was spiritually connected with Aries. "What a small world, isn''t it?"

    "I disagree. The world is vast, my lord. It only became small for us because of that woman." Fabian tipped his head in Marse''s direction. "I hope she gets crushed before rescue arrives."

    "Curse you!" Marse yelled but was unable to do anything else. Beads of sweat covered her forehead while her face slowly turned red at the weight on her back.

    "I see," Miguel chuckled, rocking his head in understanding. "So it was true. I heard the person who had given you the power of Maleficent was that lunatic. I thought your rtionship would be a bit better. It seemed I was wrong."

    "Heh." Fabian rubbed his skull ring with his thumb, quietly assessing the man before him. "What a terrifying man."

    "I''ll take that as apliment." Miguel snapped his eyes, witnessing someonee up from Fabian''s back to attack Fabian.

    Booogsh!

    Before the member of the council could seed, Dexter sent him flying. The member crashed into the wall without mercy.

    "It saddens me how I cannot chop his head right now." Miguel set his eyes back on his current opponent. "However, I am looking forward to how powerful the infamous butler of the House Grimsbanne is."

    "The feeling is mutual." The corner of Fabian''s lips curled up into a smirk as a dark shroud appeared in his hand, crawling up to his sleeve like a snake. "Maleficent."<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    As soon as thest syble rolled out of Fabian''s tongue, he vanished from his spot. Miguel quickly matched his opponent''s speed, meeting Fabian halfway with their swords ringing loudly. The sh of their weapons created a powerful gust of wind, making the floor tremble.

    "Ugh!!" Marse grunted, ring daggers at Fabian and Miguel. "Make this ground shake again and I will kill you two if I get out of here!"

    "I am conflicted whether to be awed by her or get appalled." Miguel chuckled, keeping his attention locked on Fabian. "Even though her bones were probably getting crushed by now, she still has the energy toin. I wonder how long she would hold up? Many died without reaching a minute mark under Giselle''s control."

    "I am unsure, but what I am certain is that you might not see that happening." A glint flickered across Fabian''s, making Miguel peek at the ck spear against his sword.

    "Such a violent weapon," Miguel mused. "No wonder they said not anyone can wield this ck spear. The weapon will corrupt its holder and not the other way around."

    CLASH!

    Fabian and Miguel didn''t waste any more time testing each other''s strengths and analyzing each other''s fighting styles. Not only them but London and Conan were engaged in a fierce battle, not caring about anything else but ending each other. Meanwhile, Dexter faced the members of the Raven, sending them flying or unconscious. His opponents weren''t as strong as Miguel and London, but they were still troublesome enough to be a part of the night council.

    "Your Majesty," Giselle spoke again as the battle raged on around them. "Is this what you truly want?"

    "This is not what I wanted, Giselle. It was you who wanted this to happen."

    "Do you think Abel Grimsbanne can save you?"

    "He wille to me when I need it."

    "Where is he now?"

    This time, Aries didn''t respond. She kept her lips tight shut, keeping her icy stare at Giselle.

    "If I may guess, Abel Grimsbanne is preupied with something." There was peace and confidence in the chief leader''s voice. "Even if he could get out of it, I am certain it will be toote for him."

    "What did you do to him, Giselle?"

    This time, a smile turned up on Giselle''s face. "How are you husband and wife when you do notmunicate properly? Your Majesty, do not fret. Everything the count told you was sincere. We do not intend to harm you, but to save you from the worldly things you had indulged with."

    "May tonight be the night the blood moon blesses its anointed guardianбн" Giselle opened her eyes to reveal nothing but a pair of white eyes, spreading her arms. "... cleanse her soul from impuritiesбн"

    Aries furrowed her brows, feeling the ground shake. Even the battle paused to find bnce, their heads all in Giselle''s direction. Small pebbles and dirt rose in the air, bringing panic to some people''s hearts.

    "Dani!" called Dexter on instinct, but before he could jump to take Aries, Aries''s entire body froze. Aries suddenly cocked her head back, her feet flexing, and all the muscles in her body seemed to have turned stiff.

    "Ahh!!"

 Chapter 904 They Wouldnt Make It In Time

    ?

    "Ahh!!"

    "Aries!" Conan''s adrenaline kicked him to go to Aries. But just as he took a step and leaped, an iing attack halted him from going to her. "London Leviticus!"

    Conan''s voice thundered, grinding his teeth at the person across the de. "Will you truly interfere with me?!"

    "Apologies, Your Highness." The smile on London''s face disappeared without a trace, eyes glinting with equal danger and regret. "Her Majesty is an important ally. She was the real person who had established the world project бк if not for her, my dreams wouldn''te to life."

    "Then whyбн are you stopping me?"

    "This gathering was not to harm Her Majesty, Your Highness." London''s expression slowly turned solemn. "It was simply a ceremony she must take to be the real monarch of thisnd бк it was an enlightenment. As much as I hated opposing you, I realized she was a perfect person to sit on that golden throne. With this, the Hakebourne Dynasty will finally end and thisnd will enter a new era it deserved."

    "For that to happen бк for the goodness of thisnd and this world, the Queen must be on our side of her own volition," he added. "I won''t let you interfere unless she decides she wants nothing to do with the organization and the maind after the ceremony. That is the only time I will respect her decision."

    Conan''s eyes zed in anger, almost speechless at the level of ridiculousness he just heard. His fangs slowly grew longer and sharper, staring at London as if he was prepared to kill thetter.

    As a royalty, Conan had heard of these gatherings many times in the past. His father would usually attend once every year or sometimes twice. Of course, he knew this gathering wouldn''t kill Aries; his father survived many covens after all.

    The reason Conan was unwilling for Aries to go through this ceremony was that he had seen how his father changed after his first coven. It wasn''t a drastic change, but since then, the former king before Maximus IV stopped being a father to his children.

    The former king put the maind first before anything else. It didn''t matter if he was harsh to his children, nor did he ever bother with his children''s feelings. If anything, he was even stricter and unforgiving of them. It was sickening to the core.

    "Fourth is a different caseбн" Conan''s voice rumbled low to his chest. "Stand in my path again, and I will assure you, London Leviticus. I will tear you apart with my own hands."

    "How terrifying, but I am already aware of that the moment I shed swords with you, Your Highness." London didn''t doubt Conan''s warning. He took it seriously, keeping his guard up, and preparing himself for the worst. "I have nothing against you or the queen. This is simply a duty I must do because, at the end of the day, the maind is still my mothend. It is the ce where my family was born and raised, and even thend they rest."

    CLASH!<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Conan didn''t waste a second after reassuring London''s resolution was solid. He swung his sword while London blocked his attacks; their swords sparked with the intense battle between them. Conan was in a hurry, while London was determined not to lose.

    "Out of my way!" Dexter shouted his lungs out, taking down another member of the Raven who had surrounded him. His eyes were burning, gripping his sword until it trembled. "Out of my бк"

    Dexter didn''t finish his sentence as another member jumped on him. He had to defend himself before sending his enemy flying. His annoyance skyrocketed at their persistence. Compared to him, he was far better and stronger. What gave him a hard time was the number of enemies he had to face.

    "Ahhh!!!" As soon as Aries screamed once again, Dexter looked in her direction. His heart pounded against his chest as his determination to go to her increased. He nced in Conan''s direction, only to see Conan battling against London.

    Dexter and Conan had known each other for centuries. They bantered for many years and evenpeted in the direction the Haimirich Empire would take. Therefore, he knew Conan also wanted to rescue Aries. The problem was, London was in the way. For Conan to stop Giselle, he had to defeat London first.

    ''Damn it!'' Dexter instinctively shifted his attention to Fabian, only to see him in a deadlock with Miguel Rothschild. Meanwhile, Marse was still slumped on her knees and hands on the floor, fighting the crippling gravity cast upon her. Therefore, the rest of the members were now surrounding Dexter to stop him.

    Seeing that everyone was preupied while Aries was screaming in pain felt like someone was stabbing his heart continuously. Dexter ground his teeth until his gums bleed slightly. He couldn''t think of another solution but to finish off their opponents and stop Giselle as soon as possible.

    "Damn it!" Dexter cursed, swinging his sword. Regret pooled in his eyes, but behind them was his burning determination. "Abel, what in the damn world are you doing?!"

    He had heard Giselle''s remarks previously, and it seemed Abel was trapped in something. Did Giselle foresee this would happen? And her only solution was to trap Abel? Even though everyone knew Abel would emerge from whatever trap he was in alive, if Giselle nned to stall time, then this n was effective.

    "I''m going to kill him if something happens to her бк ahh!" Dexter leaped forward, initiating an attack this time. His attacks were vicious, forcing his opponents to take a step back. However, when he took down three at a time, a member of the Raven stepped in.

    This member was by far different from his previous opponents. Just his stance alone was enough for Dexter to figure that out.

    ''So those guys earlier were just to exhaust me, huh?'' he assumed, guessing there were more capable Ravens that he hadn''t taken down yet. With this thought in mind, Dexter''s hope of rushing to finish his battle totally disappeared.

    They wouldn''t make it in time.

 Chapter 905 Embrace The Light

    ?

    Aries screamed and screamed even when her throat was on the brink of bleeding. Her skin was burning, making her want to throw herself on the ground to soothe the pain. But even when she wanted to do something to ease the pain, she couldn''t move an inch. Hence, all she could do was scream.

    Her spine was straight, head cocked back whilst standing on her toes. She could feel this strange force pulling her off the ground. Her eyes and behind her irises shone a blinding light. Around her body were a mix of silver and ck shrouds.

    It was painful.

    Aries went through different types of pain in the past бк she went through a thousand levels of torture. But this was different. She could feel her flesh ripped and her head felt like it was being split in half. Her eyes felt hot until a drop of blood rolled down the side of her cheek.

    "Ahhh!!!" Aries curled her toes, almost digging them into the marble floor.

    Make it stop, was what she wanted to say. However, she knew no one wasing. Despite the pain that was dominating her from inside and out, she managed to keep a little self-awareness. Aries only had herself right now.

    The only person who could stop this scorching heat under her skin was her. Deep in her heart, she had an idea of what to do.

    ''Thereбн'' her brain whispered. ''Go beyond that light.''

    That light.

    That light that was shining dimly within her. All Aries had to do was embrace it and her gut feeling told her the pain would disappear. Focusing on her inner body, Aries subconsciously searched where that light was. It was easy to find, as her internals looked more like an erupting volcano.

    ''I need to embrace the lightбн the lightбн'' Her desperation grew stronger and stronger, not knowing the light that was attached to her soul was glowing brightly through her body.

    Giselle watched the lighte from Aries''s stomach, traveling to thetter''s chest. She barely blinked, waiting for Aries to take the light and embrace it. Once Aries embraced that light, Giselle was certain the will of the first king would be passed to Aries.

    This ceremony never failed, as everyone who went through it changed, carrying the mission the royal family should carry. The only time it failed was when it was Maximus IV''s time. But at that time, Maximus rigged the ceremony. Therefore, he didn''t be a proper ruler of the maind.

    Giselle sped her hand tightly, holding her breath, focusing her attention on the queen. She didn''t care anything about the battles surrounding them, prioritizing thepletion of the ceremony.

    "Comeбн embrace the lightбн" she chanted under her breath, spreading her arms ever so slowly. "Blessing of the first kingбн guide your sessor and lead her to greatnessбн"

    The light in Aries''s chest slowly turned dim as she came closer to epting the only way out of this. Her body, mind, and soul were telling her to embrace the light. But her heart told her otherwise.

    ''You will regret it,'' was what her gut feeling was telling her. ''Once you embrace that light, nothing good wille after. All your ns will go down the drain. Remember his words, Aries! Remember!''

    ''Light.'' She whispered inwardly, ignoring her gut feeling. ''Embrace the light and get the blessing of the first anointed guardian.''<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "Dani!!!" Dexter''s shouts echoed over the piercing sounds of metals shing. "Hang in there бк ugh!!!"

    Dexter was forced to clench his teeth as a footnded on his abdomen, sending him flying until he crashed into the wall. The person who had attacked him didn''t waste time, showering him with punches and kicks until he created a hold behind Dexter.

    "I said out of my way!!!" This time, Conan yelled, blocking London''s sword. He then slid his des, creating sparks against the de, only tounch an elbow attack against London''s jaw. "Damn it!"

    Conan huffed, almost catching up to his breathing. He turned his head in Aries''s direction, catching the light spreading across her chest.

    "Lady Aries!" he shouted, jumping in Aries''s direction. However, just as he leaped, a hand grabbed his ankle to sabotage his bnce.

    Conan lost his momentum, rolling on the ground until he was on his knees. His teeth were clenched tightly, only for his eyes to dte upon sensing danger behind him. Without checking, Conan rolled to the side to dodge the attack.

    "Hah." London''s usually neat hair was now in a mess. The side of his lips was bleeding, holding his sword with his eyes on the crack where his des plunged into. He took another deep breath, pulling his sword from the ground, and then shifting his attention to where Conan rolled.

    "Youбн" Conan''s voice shook in anger. "You already know you don''t stand a chance. Yet, you standing in my way."

    "Against royalty, I am but a mere challenger." London gulped to soothe his drying throat. Unlike Conan, London was already beaten. "However, if stalling time is the only thing I can do, then I''d stall as much as time I can."

    Conan''s eyes burned furiously, picking up his sword beside him. If he wanted to, he could end London in a few minutes. However, Conan was in a rush. He attempted to rescue Aries throughout his duel against London, but just like right now, London would immediately stop him.

    Meanwhile, Fabian wasn''t in a rush, unlike Conan and Dexter. He was rather rxed, not being too aggressive while exchanging blows against Miguel Rothschild.

    "What a surprise. I thought you''d be the first to rush to her, but you''re ratherбн rxed," Miguel pointed out after creating distance from Fabian.

    "You said you will not kill her. I believed you."

    "Hah." Miguel let out a short and dryugh.

    "Moreover, you were simply stalling time." Fabian smiled, arching his brows as he nced around. "Why should I be in a rush if your goal and mine are the same?"

    Deep lines appeared between Miguel upon hearing Fabian''s remarks.

    "My beloved soulmate asked me a request just not long ago," continued Fabian, standing in a rxed stance. He slowly turned his head, eyesnding on Aries. "Her exact words were, stall me some time. Thus, I am here to do just that."

 Chapter 906 The Situation Now Reversed

    ?

    "My beloved soulmate asked me a request just not long ago. Her exact words were, stall me some time. Thus, I am here to do just that."

    The dark spear within Fabian''s grip trembled, making him nce at it and smirk. A dark shroud came from his spear, sending a sense of dread down Miguel''s spine.

    ''No,'' whispered Miguel in his heart, shifting his attention to Giselle. "Giselle!! Stop this бк"

    CLANG!

    Miguel nearly bit his tongue when the dark spear suddenly appeared before him. Thanks to his fast reflexes, he blocked the attack on time. If he was a bit slow, Miguel would''ve lost a limb that second.

    "That''s rude, Count." Fabian smiled until his eyes were squinting. "Isn''t your priority this ceremony? You should let the chief leader do what she must do."

    Miguel ground his teeth. "What are you two nning?"

    "My only n is to stall time бк do I have to repeat the orders I got?" The swords between them rattled as Fabian leaned forward. "Her Majesty was truly a woman with a thousand ns. How can you fall for her petty tricks? You should''ve continued investigating the fort and shouldn''t have listened to her. Now you''re in trouble."

    CLANG!

    Miguel repelled Fabian with all his might and then jumped away, creating a distance from him. His eyes were shaking as Fabian''s remarks repeated in his head over and over.

    How did this man know about his initial worry?

    Just weeks ago, Miguel had been in the fort every day to check to ease the restlessness in his heart. However, a week before the full moon, he stopped. He shifted his focus to the Queen''s activities, and he found out about Suzanne and the witches'' movements.

    "Noбн" Miguel whispered as a realization struck him.

    All the encounters and conversations he had with Aries from the very beginning suddenly made a point. From the very beginning, Aries had been hinting at Miguel to focus on her. She never said it directly, nor was she hasty about it. She kept her hints minimal. Miguel didn''t notice until now that he realized he subconsciously followed what Aries had been wanting.

    Focus on her and her movements.

    Miguel held his breath, wide-eyed. Fabian''s smile was still dominating his face, as if pleased to see Miguel''s reaction.

    "Youбн" Miguel''s voice rumbled low while his chest suddenly pounded against his chest. "... what is Abel Grimsbanne up to?"

    "That, I don''t know for sure. Though I have my guess."

    Miguel closed his eyes and stabilized his breathing. When he reopened his eyes, he took another deep breath before his voice thundered.

    "Stop, Giselle right this instance! It''s a trap!!"

    All the members of the Raven who heard Miguel''s voice stopped. They all cast their eyes at him, only to see Miguel standing several steps away from Fabian. They heard about the infamous butler in the House Grimsbanne and they were not surprised Miguel couldn''t go past him.

    They didn''t know the details of Miguel''s orders, but that one sentence was enough for them to follow his orders.

    It was a trap.

    BOOOGSH!<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    Just as the members of the Raven were about to flee the battle to execute the order, a member suddenly flew into the wall. They halted, eyes falling on the person who suddenly appeared in front of them.

    "Oy, oyбн where the hell do you think you''re going?" Dexter spat out blood to the side, fixing his stance as he pointed his sword at them. "Earlier, I kept telling you to get out of my way, but you didn''t listen. What makes you think I''ll let you get away now?"

    Dexter sneered, hisughter wasced with sinister. He didn''t know the reason Miguel suddenly spewed such orders. If there was anyone who wanted to stop this ceremony, Dexter was first on the list. But his gut feeling was telling him to ride the sudden wave that struck them.

    Whatever nonsense Fabian spewed that changed Miguel''s mind, Dexter wouldn''t let these Ravens get their way. After all, Aries was the most scheming person Dexter had met in his life. She was a woman known to have a thousand ns. It would be foolish to think that the orders she had given Suzanne and the witches were her only n.

    There must be another one or two.

    Meanwhile, Conan and London were still fighting ferociously. This time, however, Conan wasn''t in a rush anymore.

    "What, Your Highness? Weren''t you in a rush just moments ago?" London huffed, holding his sword against Conan''s. "Now I am letting you. Matter of fact, I''ll help you stop the ceremony."

    Conan smirked. "You know, after exchanging blows with you, I''ve grown attached!"

    "Is that so? Have you fallen in love with me? Just like your brother?"

    "Whatever makes you happy." Conanughed. "I''ll pretend I didn''t hear that."

    CLANG!

    Conan and London repelled each other, only to leap toward each other to have a showdown of strength. As their swords sparked against each other, London spoke.

    "Your Highness, just what will you gain from this?" he asked, unfazed by the strength Conan was disying. "Just what were you and Abel nning?"

    "No idea!"

    CLANG!

    "All I know is that I need to make sure she''ll live," Conan continued when their swords met once again. "You worked with her before. You should''ve known her way of making ns. Only Lady Aries knew the entire look of the ns бк we only know a bit of it."

    CLANG!

    London clenched his teeth as he continuously exchanged blows with Conan. Each of their attacks was powerful, but now London was being pushed back. Conan''s urgency previously was gone and had been focusing on him, putting London at a disadvantage.

    Abel had been going into his house ever since Aries was crowned the Queen. Although Abel had been in his estate, London still, until now, had no idea what the man was nning. He tried investigating on his own, following Abel''s trail, but failed miserably.

    The only hint he got from Abel was: "Choose your priority."

    What Abel meant by that was if London nned to side with Aries without questions, London should be prepared to sacrifice the maind. If London chose thetter, then he should do his best to stop Aries. Thus, he was here, fighting for his mothend. No hard feelings.

    ''I don''t regret my decision. But at this rateбн''London huffed as he slid back after failing to put more strength into blocking Conan''s attack. ''... I''m afraid he tricked me so I won''t see through his ns.''

 Chapter 907 The Sinful Tale Of The Beginning

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    Meanwhile, Aries was not aware of the sudden change in the situation in her surroundings. Earlier, all her people were trying to save her. It only took one order for all of them to have a change of heart.

    Now, the people who were initially stopping the Queen''s people now wanted to stop the ceremony. But s, the Queen''s people were on the way.

    Aries slowly embraced the soothing light to ease the pain all around her body. Her pain was telling her to hold on to it, to ept it, and be one with it.

    ''Lightбн'' she whispered to herself. ''Cleanse me of all the impuritiesбн''

    Giselle kept her focus on the queen''s figure. She heard Miguel''s orders and was aware of the change around, but didn''t stop.

    ''Whatever trap they hadidбн she will be nothing if she embraces the will of the first king.'' Giselle didn''t share the same sentiments as herrade. ''Maleficent and the Grimsbanneбн will fall tonight.''

    Even though her eyes were nothing but a cloudy white, they were sharp.

    "Abel Grimsbanne," she whispered. "It''s a mistake to ce your heart in her without telling her about it."

    Giselle knew everything that was going on on the maind. Herck of sight didn''t deter her from doing her duties and knowing the truths that no one else knew about.

    For instance, she was aware that Aries''s transition into a vampire failed miserably. She was already dead when Abel tried to turn her into one and thus, her chances grew slimmer.

    How Aries was standing now, emanating the scent of a Grimsbanne, was because of what Abel had done to her. He couldn''t bear the grief of losing her and thus, he offered his life to revive her.

    Abel ced his heart in Aries; he extended his life in his wife''s. If Aries embraced the light, the light would extinguish all impurities that were within her. That included Abel''s life, for he was born a sin.

    Once Aries embraced the light, everything would change. She would live and breathe for the maind, carrying the will of the first monarch. With the power of Maleficent, she would be able to do her duties without a problem.

    And thenбн Abel Grimsbanne would be no more. Abel''s death would mark the extinction of the Grimsbanne. Thisnd would be free of the Grimsbanne and thend will be greater than ever.

    That was what Giselle believed. She had met many rulers of thend, and she had witnessed their changes right after being anointed as the king of the vampires. Although most of them failed to kill the Grimsbanne or simply let them be for the good of the maind, this time was different.

    ''The Grimsbanneбн you will all die.'' Giselle''s unchanging countenance appeared colder. ''The will of all those I served will be finally attained. Thisnd will be free.''

    The corner of her lips curled up as the light shining through Aries''s body spread through her. The light grew brighter as if Aries was light, and her scream grew louder before it stopped.

    The battles around halted when the great hall was shrouded in a blinding light. They all turned their heads in Aries''s direction, but could only see the bright light from within her. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

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    Thest thing Aries remembered was the scorching heat burning her flesh. She saw the light and embraced it. Even though the light was within her, it took her some time to reach it. But once she did, her pain only doubled, and then no more.

    "Huh?" Aries blinked, confused. "Where am I?"

    Her brows furrowed, looking around at her surroundings. As she did, she caught a figure not far away from her. It was a man; a man she had never seen before.

    ''You areбн'' Aries gazed at the man''s back while staring out at the massive balcony.

    It was already night, but somehow, the moon''s light was brighter than it was supposed to be. There were only two of them: Aries and the man.

    "Back in the day, they said vampires can''t walk under the sun as punishment after the holy war." Aries nearly flinched when the man suddenly spoke. "Vampires and wolves were a product of a sinful tale of two individuals. They said the god of the underworld fell in love with the beauty of the moon goddess. His desire for her was so intense he would do anything to have her."

    The man looked heavenward, gazing at the full moon. "One would think the god of the underworld was selfish. He was, but the moon goddess was not any better. She used the god of the underworld''s affection to her own advantage. The fruit of their deceitful affair was us, vampires."

    "But when her real motives were revealed, she cursed her children with the god of the underworld. That curse was for us to fear the light," he continued in the same calm tone. "Vampires were said to turn into ash once the sunlight hit us. Thanks to the god of the underworld, he lifted the curse. His decision was not because of love, but rather, it was a decision to spite her."

    "To grant us the power to walk under the sun again, he had given a part of him. However, just a portion of him was so great one person couldn''t hold such prowess. Thus, he split that meager power into seven." The man nced over his shoulder. "Those seven seeds will carry the sins of the demon and the moon goddess. Although they would be granted strength and power so great one would envy, the fate of their blood will be a tragic path."

    "Come here," he added.

    Aries gulped and slowly advanced in his direction. She stopped beside him, eyes falling on where he had been staring. As soon as Aries caught the fire and smoke ahead, her eyes widened.

    "Thisnd and our kind were cursed from the beginning. Wolves and vampires and witches had put a bnce to this world," he continued, setting his eyes on the chaos in theirnd. "I don''t have a long life ahead. However, I will not leave the mortal realm without assuring my people''s safety. In a while, thisnd will part from the rest of the world. It will remain hidden for as long as someone will protect it."

    The man slowly faced Aries, watching her look back at him. "Will you do me a favor? Aries Grimsbanne?"

 Chapter 908 Yes

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    Meanwhile, the fighting in the great hall halted as the light within Aries grew brighter and blinding. Those people on her side, especially Conan and Dexter, held their breaths. Fabian partially opened his eyes. Miguel and the rest of the Raven also held their breaths, not knowing if this ceremony would result in their favor or not.

    "Your Majestyбн" Suzanne managed to drag herself to the corner, shielding her eyes with the back of her hand. "... is this what you truly want?"

    At this point, no one knew what Aries''s real motive was. Some of them were tasked with sabotaging the ceremony while others, like Fabian, were asked to stall Aries sometime. Thus, the confusion. They didn''t truly know what Aries wanted with the divided task and secrecy in the entirety of their n.

    All they could do at the moment was hope that everything that was happening was ording to Aries''s ns. From the bottom of their hearts, they truly and deeply wish her sess in whatever it was.

    The light in the great hall onlysted for several seconds, but each millisecond felt like hours. And then the light disappeared without a trace.

    Thud.

    Aries''s body fell to the ground like a leaf being blown away by a branch. Her bodynded with a faint thud, but somehow, with the pin-drop silence in the great hall, her fall echoed louder than it was supposed to.

    "Dani," a whisper slipped past Dexter''s lips as his eyes were fixed on Aries. "Dani!!"

    CLANG!

    Dexter clenched his teeth as someone suddenly attacked him, blocking his path from going to his sister. "You!" his voice shook in his chest.

    "Apologies, Marquees," said the man holding the other sword against Dexter. "Even if the ceremony seeded, I cannot allow you to approach Her Majesty. Moreover, your attempt to intervene with such a sacred gathering deserves severe royal punishment. Your substantial rtionship with the Queen might not help you from all your crimes."

    Dexter had no other choice but to defend himself this time. He had to grit his teeth, swallowing down the bitter pill that he couldn''t go to her as soon as possible. Still, knowing Aries was on the floor, unconscious, divided his attention and put him at a disadvantage.

    "Ugh!" Dexter blocked an attack, but then someone jumped from behind him. Thanks to his reflexes, he deflected the attack. However, he was a secondte as the other sword from behind him grazed his shoulder.

    Meanwhile, Conan and London stopped fighting just like Miguel and Fabian. The four of them stood on their spot, eyes on the unconscious Aries.

    "Your Highness, won''t you rush to Her Majesty?" asked London, while keeping his eyes on the queen.

    "It would change nothing," was Conan''s answer. "All I can do right now is to preserve my energy while waiting for what sort of person would wake up to that body."

    Miguel and Fabian didn''t hear the short exchange between London and Conan, but they also had the same thought. Fighting right now while Aries was unconscious was pointless.

    At this moment, all they could do was wait for the result of the ceremony. The uneasiness in their hearts slowly grew stronger with every passing second, hoping that the result would favor them.

    "Comeбн" Giselle whispered, keeping her eyes shut to feel the queen''s heart. "бнe now, Your Majesty."<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    The Queen''s heart stopped beating when she fell to the ground. Until now, her chest had no sign of movement or sound. The beating of Aries''s heart would determine whether Giselle seeded or not.

    ''It will seed. I''m sure of that.'' She told herself. ''There is no way Aries wouldn''t inherit the king''s will, even if the spirit of Maleficent was in her.''

    BUDUM

    Giselle''s breath hitched as soon as she heard Aries''s heartbeat once again. Her eyes slowly dted while her mouth fell open. Satisfaction slowly resurfaced on her pale face as the corner of her lips stretched from ear to ear.

    "Yesбн" came out a whisper. "Yes! Hah! It seeded!"

    Her short remarks echoed, causing another wave of unpleasant silence in the great hall. Fabian frowned while Conan secretly clenched his teeth.

    "It seemed her luck ran out." London cast Conan a nce. "If only whatever n she had worked, I''m certain it''ll be bad for the maind. I''m d it seemed we had avoided the worst."

    Conan red at London, and his fist trembled. "Say that again."

    "Your Highness, it''s pointless even if you wield your sword once again. The person you are fighting for has already changed her mind." London faced Conan squarely. "Once she regains her consciousness, I''m certain she wouldn''t want us to fight each other. If you are still on her side, then stick to her side. But if you change your mind just because your goal doesn''t align with hers anymore, then I will dly fight you again. But this time, as a subject of the Queen against a traitor of thisnd and Her Majesty."

    "Youбн" Conan''s voice rumbled down his chest, but London was unfazed. Thetter kept a dignified and robust front, waiting for Conan to make his choice.

    Meanwhile, as the tension between Conan and London rose, and Dexter was fighting viciously against multiple members of the Raven, Fabian stood still. Fabian gazed at his dark spear, his hand shaking at the violent reaction he was sensing from his weapon.

    "It seems there''s no need to fight you." Fabian shifted his eyes to Miguel as thetter spoke. "You are not on Abel Grimsbanne''s side, but the Queen. She is someone important to you. Hence, we can put the bad blood behind us and start anew. I am on her side as well, after all."

    Miguel was quick to rx and heave a sigh of relief upon hearing Giselle''s jovial announcement. Fabian, on the other hand, assessed Miguel from head to toe.

    "Her Majesty is indeed important to me, but I don''t think we are now on the same side, Count Miguel." Fabian''s eyes slowly squinted. "Her Majesty, my dearest soulmate, hasn''t forgiven you for all the deceptions you had caused in her life. I could feel her heart yearning for your demise, but as her soulmate for life, I''d save her the trouble of chopping all your joints herself."

    "And apologies for popping your bubble, but it is too early for you to celebrate," added Fabian, making Miguel furrow his brows.

    Not long after Fabian''s remarks, Giselle''s voice was heard again.

    "No! No, no, no!!" everyone turned to Giselle''s vantage point, only to see her on her knees while screaming, ''No!.''

    No one knew the reason, but everyone was certain of one thing. Giselle never lost her cool, even if she was in the middle of the ocean on a stormy night. For her to react this way, everyone knew whatever reason it wasбн It was bad.

 Chapter 909 How Can She Refute The Truth?

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    "No! No!!"

    Aries''s hand twitched as the eyes underneath her lids flickered. Her brows knit slightly, moaning as her entire body felt sore. When she opened her eyes, she pushed herself to sit upright.

    "No!! What did you do?!" Giselle''s scream pierced her ears, making Aries wince.

    Her vision was still a little blurry, taking a few blinks to get a clear view of her surroundings. Several steps from her were Giselle, screaming while slumped on the floor. Behind Giselle бк a meter or two from her бк were Fabian and Miguel. Both men were staring in her direction with equal curiousness in their eyes.

    On the side were Conan and London. From their appearances and the apparent bruises on them, one could tell they were exhausted.

    Dexter, on the other hand, was still surrounded by several members of the Raven. Although all of them were frozen on their spot and staring in Giselle''s direction. Marse was still kneeling with her hands on the cracked floor, still fighting the crippling gravity on her.

    Time in the great hall seemed to stop, but the situation Aries had woken up to didn''t surprise her.

    The corner of Aries''s lips curled up into a smirk, setting her pair of crafty eyes on Giselle. She slowly rose to her feet, gazing at the metal bands around her wrist.

    "Oh, Giselle. You would be surprised at the ce I went to just now and who I met there," came out Aries''s alluring calm voice, at the same time, the metal bands on her wrists turned into dust. "Such a lovely man."

    Giselle''s eyes were still clouded with white, but Aries could feel the growing fire in them. Such a sight to behold. The everposed and righteous Giselle had finally lost her cool, revealing the little girl hiding behind that pretentious mask of self-righteousness.

    "What did you do?!" Giselle''s voice thundered, rising from the floor. "What did you do to His Majesty?!"

    "His Majesty?!" Ariesughed. "You mean that foolish first king who left this stupid curse in this royal family of ves? Hah! I killed him."

    Giselle''s voice hitched. "What did you say?"

    "Oh, Giselle. You''ve been nning for this day for millennia. How can you not see through my ploy?" The metals around Aries''s ankles quietly turned into dust. "All I did is give you a little diversion and yet, you believed I wanted to stop this ceremony. I don''t even trust myself."

    Aries''s smirk grew vicious. "No, little girl. I wanted this to happen. I wanted to see him бк that king whom Maximus IV failed to kill."

    "I wanted to meet him and end him once and for all. After all, killing him is the only way to hurt you." She leaned her face forward, deliberately taunting Giselle with every word she spewed. "You wanted Maleficent? The demise of the Grimsbanne? Hah! Giselle, you surely are a hypocrite."

    "How dare youбн a lowly bastard of a cursed fae and the traitorous Hakebourne, try to use Maleficent to exact your revenge on the Grimsbanne?" Aries lifted her chin, making her eyelids droop. Her voice wasced with intense anger as if the truth had sought her in that light. "How dare someone such as yourself use the king''s will to your advantage, knowing full well the end of the Grimsbanne will be the end for all vampires!"

    Aries''s voice echoed across the entire great hall, confusing everyone. What did she say? The deep lines between Conan showed his utter confusion about what Aries called Giselle.

    A daughter of a cursed witch and a traitor to the royal family?<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "Sheбн" Conan trailed off, eyes on Giselle. "бн is a Hakebourne?"

    Giselle was a royal family?

    Just a quick recap of Giselle''s origins. Everyone knew she came from a humble n on the outskirts of the capital. Although she came from a humble beginning, Giselle''s exceptional talent rewarded her with a great position in the pce. She started as a mere princess maid, rising to be a handmaiden, and slowly made her way as part of the coven.

    Now, after many years of hard work, Giselle cinched the position of chief leader. No one criticized her for the unknown blood in her but was rather recognized for her talent. She even had a higher position than Duke Rothschild, a man who was a part of the founding family.

    Therefore, hearing that Giselle was a bastard of a Hakebourne caught everyone off guard. There was only one treacherous Hakebourne everyone knew.

    Maximus IV.

    Was she a daughter of Maximus IV? Impossible. There were no records that Maximus IV was ever associated with a woman. Let alone with a cursed fae.

    The existence of the fae was proven to be a myth.

    "What does she mean by that?" whispered London as he was rather focused on Aries''s other remarks. "The end of the Grimsbanne will be the end for all vampires?"

    Myriads of questions filled everyone''s mind as Aries spoke many things that didn''t make sense. Or rather, words too shocking to process in one go.

    Miguel nced at Fabian, and then at Giselle. "Giselle, what is she saying?!" he yelled, disliking the confusion that had arrived at the scene.

    "Why did the ceremony fail?" he added just as loud as his first remarks.

    "Fail? Oh, Miguel Rothschild. The ceremony didn''t fail but seeded. The king''s will is right here." Aries tapped her temple. "It''s just thatбн It seemed Giselle had a misconception of the king''s will."

    Her eyes slowly veered toward Giselle. "Or rather, she was betrayed by the only person she thought would help her. How can you believe in Maximus IV, when you know for a fact, he had you so he could one day consume that body?"

    "Poor, poor Giselle." Aries shook her head while clicking her tongue. "All the hard work and effort has gone down the drain because of one simple mistake. Love."

    "Giselle!" this time, Miguel roared. "Why are you not saying anything?!"

    "How can she refute the truth, Miguel?" Aries answered, shutting up Miguel. "How can you be so foolish? Giselle isn''t on anyone''s side. Unlike you, who ims to aim to save thisnd, her intention was the total opposite."

    "She hated thisnd and this entire race of vampires. Thus, she wanted to end it once and for all. Ending the Grimsbanne will mark the end of the entire race, for they hold the curse put upon the vampires. You will never see the light ever again," she added, hissing at Giselle. "Isn''t that right, Giselle?"

 Chapter 910 You Are Not The Villain, He Is.

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    "She hated thisnd and this entire race of vampires. Thus, she wanted to end it once and for all. Ending the Grimsbanne will mark the end of the entire race, for they hold the curse put upon the vampires. You will never see the light ever again. Isn''t that right, Giselle?"

    Miguel, London, and every member of the Raven looked at Giselle, wide-eyed. Was that true? Everyone was aware of the history and how vampires used to be afraid of the sun but were graced with mercy by the god of the underworld. The god of the underworld lifted that curse.

    "Youбн" Giselle was unfazed by the doubt rising in the great hall. "... what is your true aim in sowing doubt in our hearts?"

    "I am merely telling the truth!"

    Everyone was confused, not knowing which one to believe. Some of them wanted to believe in Giselle like they had always done, but others couldn''t help but consider Aries''s words.

    What if Giselle had another hidden agenda? What if Aries was telling the truth? Would their race end once they slew every Grimsbanne out there?

    Uncertainty, doubt, and fear overwhelmed everyone untilбн

    "Hahaha!" Aries''s maniacalughter echoed across the great hall. For an entire full minute, all they heard was her evilughter before it suddenly faded. "Kidding. Of course, Giselle isn''t Maximus''s daughter."

    "You crazy bitch бк"

    "Hey, hold your tongue. That''s my sister you''re calling names." Dexter raised his sword as a member of the Raven took arge step.

    "What a crazy woman," murmured Conan because, for a second, he truly believed every nonsense Aries spewed. Turns out she was only bullshitting everyone. London, on the other hand, heaved a sigh of relief. He almost fell into Aries''s ims.

    "Haha. That was funny." Fabianughed, warranting a re from Miguel.

    "Ugh!!! Can you please!!" this time, Marse''s scream echoed. "While you all are having fun, I am stuck here! Blind girl, why are you picking on me бк ah!!"

    "Shut up, Marse. Just ept death and everything will be fine," Conan hissed, ring at Marse without feeling sorry for her. This woman had been the most fickle person Conan had ever met in his life. Even though Marse was Abel''s youngest sister, her connection to Abel didn''t deter Conan''s impression of her.

    Marse had caused them too much trouble ever sinceing into the empire. She was the reason, or at least, a part of that incident years ago. Marse made everything worse and moreplicated. Thus, she could just die for all he cares.

    "I agree with His Highness, Lady Marse. Just ept the swift release," Fabian backed Conan''s advice, receiving curses from Marse.

    "She''s such a nuisance," mumbled Conan, ignoring Marse''s screams.

    "You all surely have a unique teamwork."

    "She''s not my ally, Leviticus. If not for Her Majesty, her head would''ve left her shoulders not long ago."

    London cast Conan a quick look, and he could tell thetter was telling the truth. He couldn''t me the prince, though. Marse was a nutcase and one would be foolish to believe she was on anyone''s side. Marse would betray anyone in a heartbeat if necessary.

    "Dearest Marse." Meanwhile, Marse seeded in getting Aries''s attention. "Little Aries told me many things about you. Two souls in one body, huh? The real Marse surely is an interesting Grimsbanne, but s, just like Giselle, had one slip up and everything went disarray."

    This Aries''s remarks immediately put confusion among those people on her side. She was talking about herself in a third-person perspective.

    "Could this be бк" Conan''s breath hitched as a conclusion crossed his mind, giving sense to Aries''s behavior since waking up.

    That Aries, the one who woke up, was someone else.

    "That''s right." Aries seemed to have guessed everyone''s thoughts. "Aries, my little ram, isбн resting. The king''s will is taking some time for her to absorb. Such a powerful and dedicated man бк I am in tears! So, for her not to die, I have to take her body temporarily. Oh, how it feels to be alive."

    Aries stretched her hand and fingers, feeling her hands before adding, "I don''t miss it one bit."

    "Marse, Aries made a promise that she had yet fulfilled even when my power epted her as its new owner. So, listen to me." Aries shifted her attention back to Marse. "Unfortunately, even if Aries used all her powers, she cannot help you with your dilemma. Even if I am alive, I cannot fix that problem as well. However, I can tell you what you need to do to win that battle against your own demon."

    Marse froze, listening to Aries''s voice. Channeling all her power, she raised her head to get a glimpse of Aries.

    "What did you say?" came out Marse''s shaking voice. "How do I get rid of бк no way! This is cheating, Vera! Maleficent, will you focus on your own problems instead of meddling with others? Shut up, Marse!"

    Marse screamed, fighting herself that only made her appear insane. If not for everyone knowing there were two souls in that body, they would definitely think she was unhinged.

    "What a problematic situation. Having yourself as an enemy was always been one of the toughest battles one could have. Killing herself is a lose-lose battle, after all." Aries ignored the busy Marse, setting her attention back on Giselle. "Now, where are we again, Giselle? Right. We are in the middle of discussing my intentions."

    "Well, I have none. I act ording to Aries''s ns; whether she would use my power to destroy the world or to help it recover is all in her hands. The only reason I am here is because I came to enjoy herpany бк just like how a part of me enjoyed Fabian''s." Aries snapped her eyes at the charming butler, holding a ck spear that gave off Maleficent''s scent. "It would be a shame to be tossed around again as others persecute my children."

    "How about you, Giselle?" she tilted her head to the side. "What will you do now that you had angered Abel Grimsbanne? Are you sure you should be here and not where he is? You shouldn''t keep your eyes off of him. After all, thisбн"

    Aries trailed off as she vanished from her vantage point, only to reappear a step before Giselle. She leaned forward, dawdling the continuation of her remarks. "... this is all just games to him. Don''t make hime here because once he appears, it''ll be toote for you. Take my advice and see what''s going on outside. Abel is a cunning, very crafty, yet romantically dangerous man. You shouldn''t have provoked him бк even I, at my peak, don''t have the confidence to cross him."

    HOWL!

 Chapter 911 The First Howl In The Mainland

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    HOWL!

    The corner of Aries''s lips curled up into a smirk because as soon as thest syble rolled out of her tongue, a faint howl prated the thick walls of the royal pce. A howl. A sound that was known yet alien in thend of vampires.

    The members of the Raven froze; Miguel and London''s eyes slowly went wide as soon as that sound caressed their ears. Their ears were keen enough to detect what kind of howl it was; wolves howl.

    "Don''t tell me бк" London''s breath hitched, looking in Conan''s direction on instinct. Much to his surprise, Conan seemed he was also caught off guard.

    Meanwhile, Miguel''s heart suddenly thudded against his chest. The restlessness he had been fighting months ago resurfaced in his heart. When his eyes instinctively shifted at Fabian, Miguel balled his hand at the butler''s annoying smile.

    "Hahбн" Giselle let out a short, dryugh. "... youбн brought the wolves into thisnd?"

    "Oh, no. Of course, not." Aries shook her head, pouting. "How can I do that? They probably snuck in."

    "Aries бк no. Maleficent." Giselle''s expression turned icy as the temperature dropped. "Thisnd is your mothend. Thend where you were born and raised. How dare you collude with the diabolical Grimsbanne and ruin thisnd?"

    "You forgot one thing, Giselle. The Maind might be my mothend, a ce I was born and raised, and also thend where I and my children were persecuted." Aries took a step back, scanning Giselle''s pair of white eyes. "I already put my grudges against thisnd and your kind in the past to attain the peace I deserved. I now live in sce, within theforts of my new holders. Whatever happens here isn''t my problem anymore. It was a product of your decisions, Giselle."

    Giselle pressed her lips into a thin line, closing her eyes ever so slowly. Her breathing slowly calmed, using her irvoyance to see the situation outside the royal pce.

    It wasбн bad.

    "Miguel." Giselle slowly reopened her eyes, calling Miguel. "Mobilize your men. There are at least ten iing ships from the Empire of Maganti, the Chivisea, and other kingdoms. Sink their ships before they can dock in our territory."

    "What?" Miguel hissed but held back his growing emotions. His eyes glinted in fury, nodding in understanding. "How dare they? Don''t worry about it."

    "London." Giselle didn''t dwell in Miguel as she called London. "There are wolves that have entered the borders. Stop them from ravaging our people."

    ''Abelбн!'' London ground his teeth, assuming how these wolves entered their territory was Abel''s doing. ''No wonder he had been going to the fort. I knew he was nning something бк how could he go this far?''

    "As for the rest, assist those two," she added and immediately, the members of the council bowed.

    "Yes, chief leader!"

    With that being said, Miguel and London prompted all the conscious members of the Raven to execute their task. However, that wasn''t easy.

    "Who said you can go out?" Conan raised his sword to the side, blocking London''s path casually. "We''re not yet done, Leviticus. I mean, I think I''ve grown attached to you after all that quality time."

    London smiled irritably. "Your Highness, will you truly not let this go?"

    "Never." Conan shook his head. "If you want to get out of here, then kill me first."

    "You!" London ground his teeth in irritation. He didn''t have time to deal with Conan, especially if there were wolves in their territory.

    If their enemies were simply humans, they do not need to rush. Werewolves were a different case. Even a noble vampire couldn''t simply stay idle against a werewolf, for they were equally powerful. But what made the wolves even more dangerous was that their sharp teeth could hurt vampires.

    A war against the werewolf was something they weren''t prepared for.

    Meanwhile, Miguel only took a step before stopping. Fabian didn''t move an inch from his spot, but a line suddenly appeared on the marble floor.

    "This lineбн" Miguel trailed off, setting his sharp eyes back on Fabian. "... What will happen if I cross it?"

    "You''ll find out if you do, Lord Miguel." Fabian''s eyes squinted, smiling with his lips closed.

    The side of Miguel''s face twitched, stretching his neck from one side to the other. "You people are truly testing me, huh?"

    The situation for the rest of the council was the same as Dexter stood in their way. At that moment, they all realized this wouldn''t be easy. If they wanted to go out and do what they had to do to protect thisnd, they had to go through these troublesome opponents.

    "Hmm?" Aries yfully cocked her head to the side. "It seemed things will not be easy for you, Giselle."

    "Maleficent." Giselle''s voice sounded even colder the previously. "How much energy do you need to sustain that body?"

    "Huh?"

    "A dead can nevere back to life," continued Giselle. "For you to use the little bit of strength to extend it to her, I wonder if you have the power to protect everyone in this ce."

    The cunning smile stered on Aries''s face slowly faded.

    "I am right, isn''t it?" Giselle''s volume went down. "All you can do is keep Her Majesty''s heart beating, that''s all."

    Giselle''s face darkened as she lifted both her arms to the side. "Everyone, do what you must do. I will deal with all these traitors. This ce will be their graves."

    Miguel, London, and all members of the council looked at each other before setting their eyes on Giselle. Seeing the aura emanating from her, the trust they had built through the years swelled in everyone''s chest. They might have different opinions and methods, and they might not always agree with Giselle. But one thing was for sure, Giselle wouldn''t be the leader of this council for nothing.

    "I''ll deal with youter." London faced Conan squarely before taking an enormous leap, jumping over Conan''s sword. At the same time, Conan was about to jump to stop London, but he felt a sudden force pull him down to the floor.

 Chapter 912 Ronmin

    ?

    "Ugh!"

    London looked back, seeing Conan copse on the floor with a thud. It took him by surprise that London had to stop, turning around, only to see the cracks in the floor where Conan fell.

    "If you do this, there''s nothing I can do." Fabian kept his stance, but the surface he was standing on cracked until he sank a level. He knew if he ever took a step, he would fall just like Marse, Conan, and Dexter.

    "What an interesting ability," he mused, setting his eyes on Giselle''s back. "If not for my years of experience and Maleficent''s help, I would''ve been crushed."

    Right now, Fabian could feel this terrifying weight on him. It was as if an entire mountain was ced on his shoulders, immobilizing himpletely.

    "Ugh!!! Giselle!!" Dexter grunted as an added weight fell onto his back, fixing him in the growing pit on the surface. Still, his unbending will give him the strength to raise his head. His teeth were clenched and blood soon dripped from the corner of his mouth.

    Unlike Fabian and Conan, Dexter was more about growing his economic power. He could fight, of course, but against Giselle, he was hopeless. Even in a battle against Miguel, Dexter was uncertain whether he would win against a pureblooded, noble vampire. Everything he had until now was his will to fight for Aries бк his will to protect his one and only family.

    Now, not only Marse was fixed on the ground, but Conan, Dexter, and Fabian as well. Those who had a hard time going past these obstacles were slightly surprised. The members of the Raven had been attacking Dexter all at once, but no matter how many times Dexter fell, he would stand right back up.

    Giselle was genuinely brilliant and gifted, fitting the position she climbed with nothing but her efforts.

    "Let us not waste more time!" Miguel''s voice brought everyone back to their senses. "Giselle said she will deal with all these pests! Right now, the werewolves have snuck inside our territory."

    Miguel turned his back against Fabian, facing the members of the council. "Thisnd will be their graves."

    "Yes!!!" the Ravens roared in unison, lifting their weapons in the air.

    Meanwhile, London lifted his gaze at Miguel and the rest of the Raven. He was still notpletely on their side, but their goal was the same.

    "Abel Grimsbanneбн" London whispered. "The presence of the werewolves isn''t what''s the scariest part."

    He pressed his lips into a thin line, thinking about the situation ording to Abel''s nature. If there were a few werewolves on the maind, it would be troublesome for the vampires. However, the maind sheltered the best and the most capable vampires there were.

    They could win unlessбн Abel lured the most troublesome werewolves.

    ''For now, let''s not think about all those things.'' London mentally shook his head, eyes shut. ''I don''t think Abel would have the time to approach the King of Ronmin.''

    Ronmin.

    Just like the maind, there was and where all the werewolves lived. They also lived in seclusion, surrounded by nature. Although the mentionednd wasn''t truly hidden like the maind, it was hard to locate it, for it was vast and was surrounded by towering trees and wild animals.

    Rumors had it that no one would even know there was a civilization in Ronmin unless they reached the center of thend. London only heard of that rumor when he was a child, but it stuck in his head since that was the only clue he had about the werewolves бк the vampire''s natural nemesis.

    "Let''s go!!" Miguel''s voice thundered, followed by the high morale of the members of the Raven. London also nodded to himself, about to leave the great hall to execute their orders.

    "Damn itбн" Marse cursed under her breath, grinding her teeth. "... once I get out of here, I will break all your bones, Giselle. You better make sure I will not get out of this weight."

    Giselle ignored Marse''s threats while everyone on her side was leaving the great hall. She kept her face fixed in Aries''s direction. Aries was the only one who wasn''t affected by Giselle''s power. Or rather, Aries was the only one Giselle was restraining.

    "How insulting." Aries chuckled, sneering. "Does this mean there''s no need to restrain since I can''t do anything, anyway?"

    "Marse, His Highness Conan, Marquess Vandran, and Fabian the Butler. They were all individuals capable of fighting a member of the Raven head-on. I''d say it is the same with Her Majesty. However, right now, Her Majesty is going through the process of the ceremony." Giselle smiled subtly. "A normal person going through the ceremony will cost them their lives. That is why no one dared usurped the throne except Maximus IV. Understandable since he was a Grimsbanne by heart."

    "Maleficent, why did you think I pushed through this ceremony even when Her Majesty is a turned vampire?" she continued, causing deep lines between Aries''s brows.

    "You don''t sayбн"

    "That is right, Maleficent. I know you will sustain her body so she had a ce to return to," Giselle rified, making those who had no choice but to listen almost gasp. "But since you are so busy sustaining her body, I wonder who would protect Her Majesty against the first king''s will?"

    "Whatбн" Dexter''s breath hitched, balling his hand into a fist. "Giselle! What are you saying?! What are you doing to my sister?!"

    "I am doing nothing, Marquess Vandran. All I did was open the door for her. Her Majesty was the one who stepped inside that door. How she would get out is something she must figure out on her own." Giselle blinked ever so slowly, adding more weight to everyone until she could hear their suppressed grunts and a few bones breaking. "Now, Maleficent. What will you do now? Will you go to her and save her? Or would you wait for her while keeping her heart beating?"

    Silence slowly descended in the room as thest member of the Raven fled the scene. Now, it was just Gise against Marse, Dexter, Conan, and Fabian. And yet, all of them couldn''t even move, let alone do anything against her.

    All of them were aware Giselle got the upper hand so easily. She didn''t even have to move from her spot to take away the bright sliver of hope untilбн

    "Ahhh!!!!"

    The door was suddenly kicked open as a few figures went inside. But the motivated shouts abruptly died down as the people who came бк to be precise, Miguel and the members of the Raven бк realized they were back in the great hall.

 Chapter 913 He Bet His Throne For It.

    ?

    Everyone knew that Miguel, London, and the rest of the Raven didn''t waste a second. As soon as Giselle dealt with their opponents, they rushed outside the great hall to do what they had to do. But just as they thought they reached the exit of the royal pce, the door led them back to where they came from, the pce''s great hall.

    "How in the worldбн" Confused, Miguel looked around.

    Conan, Dexter, and Marse were still being pressed on the ground. Fabian was still standing in the same spot. Giselle and Aries, as well as Suzanne, stayed in the ce where he hadst seen them.

    Was this an illusion?

    No.

    If this were an illusion, Miguel and Giselle would''ve felt it. This was something else.

    The brief confidence that initially dominated Giselle''s face faded. Coldness slowly coated her cloudy eyes, her jaw tightening as she secretly clenched her teeth.

    "It seemed they made it in time." Fabian''s confident voice broke the growing silence in the great hall. "And here I thoughtбн I would be crushed to death."

    Fabian trailed off when he felt an added weight on him. His eyes fell on the surface, seeing that the pit he was standing in grew bigger and bigger.

    "Hehe. My skull will turn into many pieces if this continues," he remarks, almost making those who were hearing him wonder if he meant everything he had said. It sounded as if he was simply jesting.

    THUD!

    The other door suddenly flew open, revealing a man flying into it feet first. As soon as London got in, he looked around with furrowed brows. The confusion that immediately showed on his face was the same as everyone. After all, London almost left the gates of the royal pce, but just after hopping over the high fence, hended on the door that suddenly appeared on the ground.

    Now, here he was.

    London turned his head in Miguel''s direction before the two of them set their eyes on Giselle.

    "Giselle, what is going on? Why are we back here?" Miguel shouted. "Didn''t you say you will deal with them? This is a waste of time."

    "Londonбн" Giselle''s voice was quiet, lowering her cloudy eyes as if she had already known the truth even before the truth reveal itself. "Can you create a route out of thisbyrinth?"

    "Huh?" Just before London could fully grasp what sort of ability trapped them in the royal pce, a figure suddenly bolted in Giselle''s direction.

    The person was faster than sound. Everyone only saw her shadow, recognizing her when she stopped with Giselle in her grip. Thetter''s feet left the ground with a hand clenched around her neck.

    "Marse," Miguel blurted out. "How did she бк"

    "Grandpa, I still want to see the chief leader''s actual abilities. So far, all I''ve seen is her control over gravity." Suddenly, a young girl''s quiet voice was heard. It was faint, but with the abrupt silence reigning the great hall, her adorable voice was clearer.

    "It would be interesting to watch."

    "Tony, this is not a game one could enjoy and make bets."

    "But, didn''t you make a bet with someone?" asked the little girl, and another person answered.

    "He bet his throne for it."

    Everyone shifted their gaze to the three people casually conversing. Their voices led everyone''s eyes to the throne, where Abel was sitting on it with a little girl on hisp. Another man whose height was impossible to not notice stood behind the throne.

    "See? You said it is not a game, but бк" The little girl, Sunny halted as she noticed the gaze cast upon them. She turned her head, pursing her lips that made her round cheek appear tender and cute.

    "Little Sunny, I told you to keep quiet. Now they found us out." The man standing behind the throne, Morro, frowned. "We n toe and go without being noticed. You foiled our n."

    "Morro, I don''t think that should be said aloud." Sunny pouted while Morro covered his mouth.

    "Abel Grimsbanneбн" Miguel''s voice rumbled low, but Marse''s remarks swiftly stole his attention.

    "Giselleбн which bone should I start with?" Marse raised her head, gripping Giselle''s neck tighter. "I warned you. If you are going to kill me, make sure I will be dead. Because if you don''t, I will pulverize your bones before setting your flesh on fire."

    London''s breath hitched as realization and reality sank in. His eyes veered from Marse to everyone. Just a moment ago, Dexter, Conan, Marse, and Fabian were immobilized. But now, Marse was able to move again, Conan managed to sit upright, while Dexter was dragging himself up. Fabian was the only one who didn''t change position, but one could tell the pressure he was fighting disappeared.

    "It seemed I arrived just in time!" The tension immediately went to a higher bar as soon as Abel''s voice echoed. "Good thing you are all present! That saves me the time from looking for you one by one."

    Sunny instinctively hopped off of Abel''sp, jogging her way toward Aries.

    "Pretty Grandma~!" called the little girl sweetly as soon as she stood beside Aries. But when Aries gazed down at her, she frowned. "You''re not my pretty grandma. You are Mister Fabian''s sword!"

    "What an adorable little pig." Aries smiled before looking back at the throne. As soon as she did, Abel was rising from his seat and met her eyes only when he straightened his back. "It''s been a while, Wrath."

    "It has been. Though I''m not at all pleased having you upy my wife''s body."

    "Will you hold a grudge about it?"

    "I haven''t decided yet." His eyes slowly shifted to everyone below the throne. "But I have decided this ce will be their graves."

    Boogsh!

    Abel snapped his eyes ever so tenderly, gazing at the wall where Marse crashed into. His lips curled up into a smirk.

    "Serves her right," he mused, eyes back to Giselle. "Giselle, I apologize on my little sister''s behalf. She is still ignorant andcks education. Thus, she was impudent to have raised her hand to you."

    "Enough with the act, Abel Grimsbanne." Giselle stretched her neck to get rid of the sensation Marse left. "I apud you for the borate n you came up with, but that doesn''t change anything."

    Giselle swiftly raised her hand to the side, but a hand suddenly grabbed it. Morro smoothly slipped his fingers in between hers, stopping whatever spell she nned to cast.

    "Your hand is just as small as Sony." Morro blinked. "How did this hand hide the dark ancient stone you had stolen?"

 Chapter 914 Fool!

    ?

    "Your hand is as tiny as Sony''s."

    A chill waved down Giselle''s spine as she felt a huge hand holding hers. She instinctively pulled her hand away, but Morro tightened his grip.

    "You бк let me go!" Giselle clenched her teeth. "I said бк"

    "It seemed Morro likes you, Giselle." Giselle''s breath hitched as Abel''s nonchnt voice resonated in her ear, along with the sound of his light footsteps as Abel walked down from the throne. "Morro loves intensely and never lets go. I would say he''s the romantic type."

    Abel stopped beside Aries, facing his wife squarely. "I told her not to overdo it. How was she, Maleficent?"

    "She''ll be fine." Aries shrugged, not epting the slight affection in his eyes. "Save your affection for your wife. I will stick to the end of my bargain, so I expect that you''d honor our deal, Abel Grimsbanne."

    "Certainly." Abel chuckled, peeling his hand away from Aries. "I will give you and those 12dies more space in my wife''s soul. So long as shees back to me in one piece."

    Aries and Abel set their eyes on Giselle and Morro. Maleficent and Abel had a deal long ago бк way back to the time Abel turned Aries into a vampire. It was true Aries didn''t make it through the process, for she was already dead.

    How she was breathing and living right now was because of Abel''s and Maleficent''s help. It was aplicated process that forced Abel and Maleficent to live in Aries''s body together. Not as people, though, but as Maleficent''s core and Abel''s heart.

    "My little ram is capable. I''m certain she can fight whatever will she will inherit from the first crown prince." Maleficent licked her lips, studying Giselle and Morro. "For now, you have to deal with that delusional woman. We have yet to figure out what card she has up on her sleeve."

    "Heh. You are quite slow. There''s no need for that." Abelughed, casting Morro a quick look. "Morro, deal with her. I don''t think I am still needed here."

    He then faced Aries once more. "Let''s go, Maleficent. I do not want to keep my wife in this ce with the rebels running amok in the capital. Those wolves will reach this ce soon enough."

    "We''ll leave?"

    "Impostor Grandma. It''s really dangerous here, you know?" This time, Sunny chimed in the conversation as she jumped beside Abel. "All those outside were furious you can''t even imagine! That''s why we evacuated!"

    "Sony, if you know that, shouldn''t you have stayed with Lady Tilly?" Morro tilted his head to the side.

    For context, this little girl was supposed to have evacuated with her brother and Tilly, Abel''s sister. However, just when they thought they already went to the safe house бк their rendezvous point бк Sunny suddenly appeared from inside the crate that Morro was carrying previously. They had no choice but to take her with them.

    "But where''s the fun in that?" Sunny frowned, reaching for Abe''s pinky. "I wanted to see my pretty grandma too! After all, she had been cooped up in the pce. She doesn''t have time to y with Sunny."

    "Tony is just worried about my wife." Abelughed, curling his pinky to hold Sunny''s little hand.

    "What''s her name?" Aries blinked. "You keep calling her different names бк can''t you decide which one to call her?"

    "That little piggy has a name?" Marse grunted as she emerged from the concrete where she crashed into.

    "Lady Marse, I advised you to hold your tongue." Fabian also joined the conversation, smiling from ear to ear, but one could feel the murderous aura emanating from his back. Understandable. Fabian had a history with Marse, and Sunny was the daughter of his master. Therefore, he was especially sensitive.

    "Your Majesty, why do you always arrivete?" This time, Conan couldn''t keep his silence anymore, pointing at Abel usingly. "Is this a tactic to make yourself stand out!? We''ve been fighting here since the beginning, but now you''re here, you''re acting as if we''re simply ying around!"

    Conan went on and on as if they weren''t in the middle of something. Seeing him like this, Dexter couldn''t help but scrunch his nose up.

    "He keepsining, but now that Abel is here, he immediately rxed," murmured Dexter, as he also had to admit the relief that surged in his chest at Abel''s presence. No matter how detestable Abel was as a person, they couldn''t deny one thing.

    Abel was Abel, and there was no one or nothing to fear if they were on his side.

    Dexter casually recovered his strength until he could stand up once again. Fighting several members of the Raven was tiring and challenging. Good thing he didn''t reach the point he was at hisst straw.

    As Conan''s nagging echoed on and on, Miguel scanned their surrounding. Not only Conan was acting as if there was nothing to worry about, but Dexter, Fabian, and even Marse weren''t concerned. If anything, the tension and seriousness they previously had disappeared without a trace.

    ''It was all because he appeared.'' Miguel raised his gaze and set his attention to where Abel was. ''That manбн he was the reason Aime is like this. I should''ve followed my intuition.''

    A glint flickered across Miguel''s eyes, tightening his grip on his sword. His eyes then veered to the man holding Giselle''s hand.

    ''He is the obstacle right now.'' A thought crossed his mind, thinking of ways to help Giselle so they could all go out of this ce. ''They were just stalling time, aiming for those werewolves to run amok in the capital without a problem.''

    Miguel calmed his breathing, waiting for an opening to attack. However, just before he could do anything, a member of the Raven leaped forward.

    "Abel Grimsbanne!!!" the member roared, appearing right above Abel with the tip of his sword going straight into Abel''s skull. "I won''t allow a traitor like you to do what you want in thisnd!"

    Abel didn''t look up, but the corner of his lips curled up.

    ''Fool!'' Miguel took a step, eyes widening at the foolish member of the council.

    "Stop!!!" Suddenly, London''s loud voice echoed as that was the fastest thing he could do. But even that wasn''t fast enoughpared to Abel''s way of retaliating.

    SPLASH!

 Chapter 915 If That Is The Only Way To Hurt You

    ?

    SPLASH!

    London, Miguel, and the members of the council held their breaths. Their pupils slowly dted while their jaws partially fell open. All their attention was on the drops of blood falling on the floor. Just now, a member of the Raven attacked Abel, only to explode on its own as if he was a balloon.

    The only remnants a person attacked Abel were drops of blood that were falling like rain in a small area. But what was even more surprising was that not a drop of bloodnded on Abel, Sunny, and Aries. It was as if they were within a protective barrier no one noticed.

    CLANG

    Some members of the council dropped their swords, still in shock at what happened. They didn''t see Abel move. All they saw was the glint of their colleague''s sword before the man exploded from within.

    Everything happened so fast.

    "Hahбн" London clenched his teeth. "бн fool."

    There was a reason even Giselle took this long to confront the Grimsbanne. To be truthful, Giselle wouldn''t face Abel in particr if not for Maximus IV. It was true that these events were initiated by Maximus IV, but Giselle was not innocent either.

    Giselle could''ve let Abel and Aries go when Abel killed Maximus IV. But she didn''t. Abel gave her a chance, but she refused it.

    Now, here they were. But what truly concerned London was the sensation he felt for a second. That second the member of the Raven disappeared, London felt this strong sense of dread crawls under his skin.

    "Miguel Rothschild!!!" London yelled to get Miguel''s attention, eyes fixed on Giselle and Abel. "Get the hell out of this ce!!"

    London''s neck turned taut. "I''ll get you out of thisbyrinth."

    Labyrinth.

    If London''s memory serves right, there were only a few servants (three servants to be exact) in the House Grimsbanne. One of them was the head butler, Fabian. London heard the other two were almost equally capable, and if he was correct, one of them held the power of thebyrinth.

    An ability to make a ce like a maze. The mansion in the forbidden forest was like that, after all. The reason not everyone who woulde inside the forbidden mansion coulde out.

    The phenomena and how they returned to the great hall matched the description of that ability. In other words, aside from Morro and Abel and those who were already here before they arrived, there were still people бк monsters бк in this ce.

    ''Weбн are cornered.'' London hissed, ring daggers at Abel.

    Meanwhile, Miguel''s entire body trembled. He had his eyes fixed on the rxed Abel and then on Giselle. He heard London, but a part of his heart was reluctant to listen. At this point, Miguel recognized the difference between his strength and Abel''s.

    It was just a moment, but that brief second was enough to take away all confidence in him.

    This was a Grimsbanne. A Grimsbanne could make one go down their knees without even lifting a finger. This truth left a bitter taste in his mouth.

    "Miguel!!" London''s shout echoed once again.

    "I heard you." Miguel hissed, torn between mending his ego or focusing on his duty as a protector of thisnd. In the end, Miguel had to swallow his pride as he peeled his burning gaze from Abel.

    "You heard Leviticus!" He hissed loudly, ncing over his shoulder to snap the council back to the currentpse. "Leave this ce бк I''ll hold them off."

    The members of the raven looked at each other bitterly. However, their personal feelings didn''t deter them from listening. At times like this, they have no other choice but to listen to the order.

    "Hahaбн" just right after Miguel spoke, they heard Marse''s dryughter. "As if you can do that."

    "Miguel, go with them. Someone has to lead them and hold off the wolves. The ships might have anchored as we speak бк that''s another thing." London took a step forward, counting how many opponents he had to hold off. He knew it was impossible, but the only thing on his mind was to hold off until Miguel and the council got out of the royal pce.

    "As if you can do that." Conan faced London''s direction properly. "If you can barely keep up with me, what makes you think you can stall enough time against all of us?"

    "I don''t need that long бк" London nearly bit his tongue upon sensing danger in a direction. "Miguel!!"

    CLANG!!

    Miguel blocked an iing attack thanks to his quick reflexes. He didn''t know who or what weapon he needed to block, but the murderous intent was so pronounced his body moved on its own.

    Gazing at the person holding the des of his sword, Miguel gulped.

    "Marse," he called under his breath, ncing at the sharp nails mped around his sword.

    Marse smirked. "What made you think I will just let you go so easily? You all had fun. Now it''s my turn."

    "Tch!" London ground his teeth until his gums nearly bled. This was useless. If all of them were willing to fight him, he could buy them some time. Obviously, Marse wouldn''t y nice.

    "Do you truly n to ruin the maind, Abel Grimsbanne?" After a long silence, Giselle spoke, raising her head at the person before her. "Is that truly your n?"

    "If that is the only way to hurt you, I''d dly set this entirend on fire a few thousand more times." Abel smiled, but as soon as thest syble rolled out of his tongue, Morro''s arm came off.

    Morro blinked, gazing at his left shoulder, only to see that his left arm was missing. He felt no pain, but having a missing arm surprised him.

    "My armбн" Morro frowned as if someone took away his candy, only to jump away from Giselle. He disappeared right after, only to reappear beside Marse, tackling her to the side.

    Everything happened so fast that no one knew why and what happened. All they saw was Morro and Marse rolling to the side before they noticed a thumb-sized hole in the floor where Marse previously stood.

    The hole was unlike the other shallow pits in the great hall, but a deep, bottomless one. If Morro didn''t move Marse, she would''ve been split in half.

 Chapter 916 Yours, you say?

    Chapter 916 Yours, you say?

    That was it.

    Miguel''s eyes fell on the hole a step before him. Giselle''s ability was associated with gravity. She could control it as much as she pleased and by that. She could concentrate on the gravity in one ce, just like what she did now.

    It was a tricky ability, something only Giselle could control.

    "Damn it!" Marse shoved Morro away. "Why did you бк fuck you, Giselle!"

    Marse''s eyes glinted with murderous intent as soon as she caught the hole in her spot previously. If not for Morro, she would''ve been split in half. Now, she felt like she owed Morro for this. She didn''t like that.

    "What a destructive ability,"mented Aries, darting her eyes on the hole and Giselle. "I''m impressed."

    "Get out of here. Our priority now is the wolves running amok in the capital." Giselle ignored everything, directing her orders to Miguel, London, and the council. "You are not needed here."

    Even if they attacked all at once, against Abel Grimsbanne, they were simply wasting time. If there was someone who could stand a chance against the Grimsbanne, that would be Giselle and Aries.

    Giselle breathed out calmly, sensing Aries''s heart. Thetter was still being sustained by Maleficent, but that wasn''t a problem. For Aries''s heart to keep beating, Maleficent was using every ounce of reserved strength she had. In other words, Maleficent didn''t have the capability to fight.

    On the other hand, even if Aries didn''t lift a finger, there was Abel, Conan, Marse, Dexter, Fabian, Sunny, and Morro. The little girl wouldn''t join the fight for sure бк that was a minus. But still, it will be six against one.

    These thoughts had crossed all Raven''s minds. But if it was Giselle, they thought, it wasn''t impossible.

    "London. Get them out of here now." Giselle ordered calmly. "They will note after you."

    "Giselle, do not overestimate yourself!" Miguel roared. "Let me stay and fight beside you."

    "Go, my lord." Giselle shifted her attention to the man, who almost had this entire world at his feet. "Abel Grimsbanne will note after you."

    Abel smiled. "That''s right. I don''t n to stay long."

    "It will not be him who will stop you from leaving, but it will be me who will not allow them to step out of this hall."

    "What an arrogant woman." Conan hissed, not having any intention of standing in London''s way. He nced at London. "Though you should listen to her and take advantage of His Majesty''s leniency. He is fickle, you know that, Leviticus."

    London huffed, ignoring Conan as he nced in Miguel''s direction. In a blink of an eye, London appeared right beside Miguel.

    "Let''s go," urged London, casting the council a quick, solemn look. "Protecting our territory from outsiders is our priority. Leave everything in this ce to Giselle."

    Miguel''s face darkened as he faced London. It was obvious leaving Giselle to face several strong enemies didn''t sit well with him, but this was a matter of which was more important.

    Right now, someone had to intervene and face the outsiders. After all, the most valuable individuals of the country were in the great hall. The citizens outside could only fend for themselves for a short amount of time. If they idled in here more, the damages would be beyond repair.

    "Fine." Miguel huffed, swallowing his pride. He set his eyes back to Giselle and then at Abel and Aries. "Once we''re done, don''t think I will forgive you, Abel Grimsbanne. Aries Aime Heathcliffe is mine."

    "Yours, you say?" Miguel and London''s breath hitched as Abel''s voice caressed their ears from behind. The two of them instinctively raised their swords, pointing at Abel.

    How did he get here?

    Just now, Abel was standing in front of Giselle. No matter how quick and agile their opponents were, they had never faced someone whose movements were this quick. They didn''t even see him disappear, nor did they feel his presence until Abel spoke.

    "How adorable." Abel chuckled, raising both his hands as a gesture of surrender. "Miguel Rothschild, did you im my wife as yours?"

    Miguel held his breath until his neck turned taut, terrified of the presence of this devil.

    "I do not ept duels, for they were such a bother. However, if it''s about my wife, I will take you on anytime, anywhere in a heartbeat." the side of Abel''s lips stretched into a cunning smirk. "Considering you hurt her enough, I have more reason to silence you, don''t you think?"

    "Abel Grimsbanneбн!" drowned with all the intense emotions swelling in his chest, Miguel roared as he thrust his sword straight into Abel''s neck.

    CLANG!

    "Miguel Rothschild!!!" London yelled, blocking Miguel''s attack. "Didn''t you hear Giselle? We have to go!"

    "London, how dare you shield that devil?"

    London clenched his teeth as his sword rattled against Miguel. Why did hee in between Miguel and Abel? From another''s point of view, one would think London was siding with Abel.

    The truth was far from that.

    If no one intervened, Miguel would die in an instant. London just saved Miguel from his impending doom. How could Miguel lose control of himself and allow his emotions to get the better of him?

    "London, I appreciate your concern бк"

    "Shut up, Abel!" London didn''t look back, shouting from his gritted teeth. "I''m not doing this for you."

    "I know." Abel sighed, shrugging. "Well, what should I do now? Should I pierce your back to get a hold of the Rothschild''s heart?"

    London''s body froze, but still kept his strength against Miguel''s sword. Before the situation escted, Miguel, London, and the members of the council felt their feet leave the floor.

    "Whatбн" London trailed off as he gazed down, confirming that he was slowly floating. Miguel and London separate because of it, somehow, confused before guessing the person behind this interference.

    "Do not let him distract you," was all they heard from Giselle before a strong force sent them out of the great hall, and the doors shut closed with a bang.

    BAM!

 Chapter 917 The night had just begun

    Chapter 917 The night had just begun

    BAM!

    Miguel, London, and the members of the council were sent flying outside the great hall. They all crashed into the wall,nding violently in the courtyard.

    "Ughбн" Miguel picked himself up, grunting at the slight pain in his back. When he sat up and looked around, he realized theynded in the courtyard.

    "Damn it!" Miguel punched the ground.

    "There''s no point in that, Count Miguel." London huffed, assisting himself to get back on his feet. "Do not let your emotions sway you or get them over your head. At the end of the day, we must do what we must do and focus on the things that will make us useful."

    London took a deliberate pause. "You know for sure what I meant by that, Count. Even if you are a Rothschild and even if I am a Leviticus, we are nothing but a speck of dust against Abel Grimsbanne."

    It was hurtful, but that was the truth.

    "That is whyбн leave everything to Giselle. We''ll just get in her way if we stick around even more. The only help we can offer right now is to make sure the maind will remain intact until the end," added London, eyes swirling with unbending determination.

    Both London and? Miguel stared at each other before the former offered his hand.

    "I haven''t fully joined hands with you, but since I know you will not allow anything to happen in thisnd, let us work together for the sake of our mutual goal." London nodded at Miguel while thetter just stared at him. "We don''t have time, Count."

    Miguel clicked his tongue, annoyed, but in the end, he held London''s hand. Even though they still had differences in beliefs and methods, their love for their country was undeniable. Thus, for now, they had to fight together.

    HOWL!

    London and Miguel turned their heads in a direction. Their expressions grew grim as they sensed the chaos outside the great hall.

    "What should we do now?" asked Miguel. "It seems the entire pce was under someone''s power. Can you create a path that won''t make us return to the great hall?"

    "I can try." London''s countenance turned even more solemn as he faced Miguel and then the rest of the council. "Thisbyrinth''s main goal is for us to get lost in the ce we thought we are already familiar with. Hence, I require everyone to stick together and to never lower your guard."

    His eyes glinted. "That is if you do not wish to rot in here."

    London''s remarks told them how serious this was. They all nodded and with that being said, London lead the group out of the royal pce.

    The house of Leviticus was known to be a line of vampires and warlocks. They were the only one in the country who were mixed-bred and was still a part of the nobility. In other words, aside from being a vampire, London had honed the art of witchcraft.

    The more they sprinted through the hallways of the royal pce, the more London realized how tricky this ability was. Thanks to his years of training and experience, even if they get into an unknown room, London could create another one to escape the clutches of thebyrinth.

    Soon enough, London''s eyes shone as they rushed to another door while still inside the royal pce.

    ''That''s it!'' he picked up his pace, making others hasten to not fall behind. ''That''s the exit!"

    London kicked the door open, jumping right outside without a second hesitation. As soon as hended, he raised his head and looked around. Miguel and the members of the Raven also came out, only to realize the door led them outside of the Royal Pce.

    "Hahбн" Miguel scoffed, looking back to the door they came from, only to see it close until it became one with the wall. The door disappeared without a trace, making one wonder if there was even a door there.

    "So, this is what makes the forbidden mansion hard to infiltrate, huh?" he remarked.

    "The Forbidden Mansion of the Grimsbanne isn''t hard to infiltrate, but hard to get out of. Once someone gets in, there''s no telling if they can ever get out. That is how thebyrinth works to protect its masters." corrected London, snapping his eyes up ahead.

    "Such useful abilityбн"

    "More than that ability, there''s an even bigger issue we must face."

    Miguel arched a brow before his gaze followed where London was looking at. As soon as he did, smoke and blood wafted through his nostrils, making his pupils dte ever so slowly.

    BOOM!

    Everyone turned their heads in a particr direction, catching an explosion on some outskirts of the capital.

    HOWL!

    "They''re this close, huh?" Miguel''s entire body trembled, sensing a few werewolves'' presence not far away from them.

    "Miguel." London looked back at Migue. "Go to the fort and check if those ships had already anchored. I''m afraid that manбн the Emperor of the Maganti Empire will bring more werewolves into thisnd."

    "What?"

    "Emperor Ismael might be the monarch of the Maganti, but he had pledged his oath as a knight to Her Majesty. With his standing and connection, it wouldn''t be impossible if they were shipping more werewolves to incite war," London exined in one breath. "I don''t think these few werewolves would dare step foot on the maind if they don''t have other ns."

    Everyone London said made sense, sparking the urgency in everyone''s heart.

    "I''ll gather the World Organization to stop the werewolves. Can I trust you to stop those ships from arriving?" London held Miguel''s gaze squarely.

    "You don''t have to ask." Miguel turned his back against London with murderous intent in his eyes. "I''ll take the council with me. Let''s go. I still have some business with the Maganti."

    With that being said, Miguel didn''t idle even for a second as he leaped away from the royal pce. The Raven didn''t hesitate to follow, going straight to the fort while the other half of the council went to different locations to close all their borders. Meanwhile, London didn''t waste a second as he went to gather all his forces to stop the werewolves from running amok on the maind.

    Little did everyone know, the night had just begun to the nightmare that awaits the sinfulnd of vampires.

 Chapter 918 Breathe Some Fresh Air

    ?

    Meanwhile, in the calm sea of the red ocean, a fleet was sailing smoothly into the hiddennd of vampires. Each ship raised a different g of their proud nation as proof of their participation in the war of the century. A night that would dictate the new era.

    In one of the ships, a man stood by the deck. His silver eyes glinted, gazing at the infinite darkness of the ocean. Ismael had gone into thisnd twice. Thus, he was aware of the deceptive ocean that hid the most cruel and powerfulnd in the world.

    The Maind.

    The vampires'' breeding ground is where all the vampires from all across the globee from. That included Abel Grimsbanne. The man who was behind all of this.

    "You might die tonight." Suddenly, a woman''s voice came from behind him until the woman stood beside him.

    Ismael turned his head, only to see Veronika in her armor suit. "The same goes for you. Your life might end tonight."

    "I''m prepared." She cast him a side-eye. "Are you?"

    "I owe my life to Her Majesty. When she sat me on the throne instead of burning it to the ground, I pledged my loyalty to her." Ismael peeled his gaze from her, setting them ahead. "She needs me. Therefore, I must do everything I can to help, even at the risk of my life."

    "Then we share deeper mutual understanding than we thought."

    "Moreover, she cannot die," he added quietly, sniffing the mild breeze blowing past his face. "If she did, that man would burn the world."

    "Eustass Silvestri Abel Bloodworth, huh?"

    "Hmm." Ismael hummed a tune, allowing the silence to overtake this moment for a second. "Abel Grimsbanne is quite lenient, but the man who leads the Haimirich Empire isn''t."

    That was right.

    Although both were the same man, their names spoke different meanings. From what they heard so far, Abel Grimsbanne was quite aid-back person before leaving the maind. They didn''t know the details of howid back he was, but what was certain was he didn''t deliberately cause trouble.

    The emperor of Haimirich was the total opposite.

    Bloodworth. A fake family name, but one couldn''t deny the terror that the name brought into the hearts of many people, including Ismael and Veronika. Even now that they knew the truth, they still felt fear at the thought of how the emperor of Haimirich was.

    "Anyway, do you think we can enter the territory without a problem?:" asked Veronika after some time of silence.

    "Are you scared that some vampires were waiting for our arrival at the fort?"

    "Scared?" Veronikaughed. "My people were prepared for battle. Thanks to Her Majesty, we learned a good deal of crucial information regarding our enemy. We simply need to deliver those guys there, right?"

    She cocked her head back, eyes falling onto Ismael. "I won''t deny their existence shocked me, but knowing there were vampires out there, I recovered. Do you think they can truly change the situation?"

    "We won''t know until we see it for ourselves." Ismael shrugged. "But that was what Abel told me to do. We must arrive at the fort no matter what."

    "I''m surprised he was able to go back and forth between the maind and the Maganti Empire. How impressive."

    "He only came by once."

    "Huh?"

    "Morro was the one who had been our bridge tomunicate."

    "That strange man, huh?" Veronika rocked her head before smacking her lips. "Anyway, it is not a long journey from hereon. I will prepare my men and maybe have a quick chat with the pack."

    With that being said, Veronika turned around to leave while Ismael stayed on his spot. Ismael didn''t move, holding his hand behind him, eyes ahead.

    Veronika had another ship that raised the g of the Chivisea Dynasty. However, she ended up tagging along with Ismael to keep himpany. Well, it was also her way of keeping herself sane before the bloody war they would take part in. Or perhaps she had another reason. Either way, that wasn''t Ismael''s concern.

    "A bloody warбн" Ismael took a deep breath as he closed his eyes ever so slowly. When he reopened his eyes, his eyelids drooped.

    The ships sailed calmly, reminding Ismael of the night Abel appeared in the empire.

    *

    *

    *

    [FLASHBACK]

    Ismael almost jumped as soon as he entered the emperor''s chambers. His eyesnded on the man casually idling on the divan, enjoying a ss of wine.

    "You''re here, Your Majesty!" Abel smiled, reclining on the divan as if this was his own chamber.

    "You surprised me, Your Majesty," Ismael breathed out, patting his chest. He gulped and then marched to the seat near the divan. "Thanks to Morro, I am slightly used to someone suddenly appearing in my room. What brings you to thisnd, Your Majesty?"

    "I went out to take some breath of fresh air."

    "From the maind to the Maganti? Just to have some breath of fresh air?"

    "Yes. Is that strange?"

    "For sure, it is not normal."

    "Haha."

    Ismael pressed his lips into a thin line. Until now, he couldn''t believe he could casually converse with this man. After all, even though they had a friendlier rtionship, Abel still scared him. Nothing could ever change that.

    "Your Majesty, I doubt that is only your intention. You will note here and leave the Queen in the maind full of greedy and ambitious vampires just to breathe some fresh air," Ismael broke the brief silence as his curiosity was almost killing him. "What is it that you want? Or rather, what role do I have in your n?"

    Abel smirked, looking back at Ismael with satisfaction in his eyes. "You''ve sharpened your mind, I see."

    "I cannot be dull, especially now that countless lives were in my hands." Ismael casually shrugged. "What can I do to help you and Her Majesty?"

    Abel''s smirk stretched broader as a red glint flickered across his eyes.

 Chapter 919 All Participants Of The War

    ?

    [ I have a friend who had been eager to enter the maind. Will you meet him and hear his request? ]

    Those were the words Ismael remembered very clearly. The reason he was now standing in this ship, leading an entire fleet to attack the maind. If this was just Ismael, he wanted nothing to do with thend of vampires.

    Ismael might''ve grown some balls after bing the emperor of the new Maganti Empire. However, his courage wasn''t to the point of foolishness. There was a limit to it.

    "Ey, ey, oops."

    Ismael closed his eyes and drew a deep breath. When he reopened his eyes, he turned his head to the side, only to see a man casually sitting on the railing. His eyes studied the man. Thetter was in a casual blouse and in, almost ragged pants. Matching his in and humble attire was a straw slipper.

    One look and people would mistake this man for a peasant. Maybe worst. But only a few бк including Ismael бк knew who this man was.

    "Are we close?" asked the man, smiling with his teeth on full disy.

    "We''re about to cross the invisible boundary."

    "Almost? It''s quite a long journey, huh?"

    Ismael kept his eyes on the man he met just a few months back at Abel''s request. Yes. This humble-looking man was the man Abel asked Ismael to meet. This man, whom Ismael met on the borders of another kingdom called Cross Kingdom, was that new friend Abel imed.

    "After meeting you, I heard about what happened to the kingdom of Cross." Ismael peeled his eyes away from the man. "It is not my ce, but it seemed what you did in thatnd will also happen in this one."

    "Heh. That''s my conquest." The man shrugged. "And I will not stop until all thends where they treat my people as mere animals cease in this world."

    "Aren''t you afraid this will backfire?"

    "It''s inevitable." The man oozed confidence. "For as long as it is not a battle against the Grimsbanne, I''m alright. Besides, I also have a long-standing grudge against the Bathorys, but that story originated from the time I was yet born. I''m just d you are here to bring me to thend of the people of the night."

    The man grinned as he turned his head back, catching another man approaching. "Unlike that man who didn''t bring me here, no matter how I beg him."

    Ismael looked back, only to see another familiar face. He also met this man at ater date, but surprisingly enough, this new person already knew how to go to the maind. However, he didn''t take Abel''s friend in here.

    "The boundary will hurt you a bit, Your Majesty." The neer stood to the other side of Ismael, nting his hand on the railing, eyes ahead. "Humans will not notice it, but for vampires бк especially wolves, it''ll leave a striking sting."

    "Don''t worry. I can tolerate a slight pain." The peasant-looking man answered the other man, who addressed him as emperor.

    That was right.

    Ismael looked to his right and then to his left. This man on his right, who was leisurely sitting on the railing бк believe it or not бк was the king of wolves, Alpha Sven. But what was strange of all was the man on the left was a vampire from the kingdom of Hearts, imed to be a prince named Yulis La Crox.

    Both of them came from different kingdoms, but they met in the Cross Kingdom. Both had positions important from thend they came from, but here they were with Ismael, sailing toward the Maind.

    "Anyway, we''ll separate once we reach the maind?" Sven, the peasant-looking man, gazed ahead. "I''ll go on my way and you guys do what you must do?"

    "I don''t n on joining this eventful night. I just need to make sure my sister, my nephew, and my niece are safe," answered Yulis in a in tone. "They might need another shelter to go home to."

    Ismael nced at both men, taking a step back. Both men didn''t react as they courageously and patiently waited to cross the invisible boundary that hid the maind.

    ''I haven''t seen them fight, but from what I heard that happened in the Cross Kingdomбн tonight will surely be the start of an era.'' Ismael pressed his lips into a thin line, darting his eyes at both men. ''And to think we haven''t counted Abel''s participation for tonight?''

    Just how destructive would this result?

    Ismael cocked his head back, setting his eyes on the starless night sky. ''It will rain,'' he said. Even the night seemed to have sensed the chaos that could reset this world into square one.

    *******

    Meanwhile, in the fort of the maind, countless bodies were scattered around. A figure stood in the middle, her midnight blue eyes shining beautifully as if all the missing stars in the sky went to her eyes.

    THUD!

    She blinked ever so slowly when she felt people''s presence stepping foot in her vicinity. When she turned around, her eyes caught a familiar noble she had been spying on for months.

    Miguel Rothschild.

    Miguel''s eyes were burning at the sight of royal knights unconscious on the ground. Upon sensing someone''s gaze, he shifted them to the figure, only to see a person he hadn''t seen in his life.

    "I knew it." The woman spoke, putting her hood down to reveal her beautiful face. "That woman had sent you here to stop the ships froming."

    Her eyes veered to several people behind Miguel, guessing they were all part of the Raven.

    "Who are you?" asked Miguel, raising his guards upon detecting this woman as an enemy.

    "Von Stein," revealed the woman. "You might be familiar with the name. I assumed you already guessed who I am because you, the Raven, summoned me to thisnd after you ughter my entire n."

    The woman, Florence Von Stein, a princess from thend known as thend of gold dust, pointed at Miguel. She was also the woman who appeared in the garden that day and met with Aries.

    "The ships will dock here," she announced quietly. "You, Miguel Rothschild, will not stop them."

    Miguel held his breath as he held the woman''s gaze. People from across the globe whom the maind offended seemed to have gathered here tonight. And they all had one intention: the downfall of the maind.

    ''Abel Grimsbanneбн'' the corner of his lips twitched as he sneered. ''You must have lost your mind to lure all these people here!''

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